Catch the news you need on the schedule you want! The KNDY News: Morning Edition podcast gives you local, regional and state news as well as relevant information for your farm or home as well. Broadcasts are archived daily as originally broadcast on Classic County FM 94.1 & AM 1570 KNDY.
KNDY News: Morning Edition Podcast

Katy Jeter visited with Senator Elaine Bowers to discuss her priorities this legislative session, which include strengthening rural communities, supporting education, and ensuring responsible budgeting. Bowers highlighted key issues taking much of her time, including property tax relief efforts and funding allocations that impact schools and local governments. She also noted ongoing concerns from rural areas, particularly access to healthcare, workforce shortages, and maintaining infrastructure in small towns. Looking ahead, Bowers emphasized efforts to support rural healthcare services and invest in infrastructure, while keeping a close eye on tax policies that affect residents and local economies.

Katy Jeter spoke with Todd Lindquist about his time serving as president of the Kansas Fairs and Festivals Association. Lindquist says his motivation to get involved came from a passion for supporting local fairs and the communities that make them possible, adding that he's most proud of the teamwork and dedication shown by volunteers across the state. He says fairs and festivals remain an important Kansas tradition because they bring communities together and celebrate local agriculture, businesses, and families. As his term comes to an end, Lindquist encourages the next president to lean on the strong network of volunteers and says he looks forward to continuing to support local events in whatever way he can.

Katy Jeter visited with Deb Ohlde of the North Central Regional Planning Commission, or NCRPC, which works with communities across north central Kansas to support economic development, infrastructure, housing, and long-term planning. A key part of that effort is the Comprehensive Economic Development Strategy, or CEDS, a five-year roadmap that helps identify regional challenges and opportunities and guides funding and project decisions. Ohlde says residents who live or work in the 12-county region are encouraged to take the short survey, as feedback will directly shape priorities once results are compiled and reviewed. The survey is open to business owners, employees, students, retirees — anyone with a stake in the region's future — and can be found on the NCRPC website, with a deadline coming soon, making now a critical time for residents to have their voices heard.

Katy Jeter visits with Susie Latta about why recycling is so important for our communities. Susie explains that recycling helps reduce the amount of waste going into landfills, while also saving energy and conserving valuable natural resources. Many common materials like paper, cardboard, plastics, glass, and aluminum can all be recycled when sorted properly. She also shares that schools can improve their efforts by adding more recycling bins, teaching students what can be recycled, and staying updated on new improvements and changes in recycling programs today.

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall visited the Marshall County Extension Office on Friday, February 13th, to highlight a free tax preparation service available to local seniors. During his visit, he emphasized the importance of community-based programs that support seniors and working families. The discussion also touched on tax credits for health insurance and the impact those credits have on Kansans. Senator Marshall noted the value of strong federal and local partnerships in sustaining programs that directly benefit rural communities.

Katy Jeter visits with Kathryn Stigge from the Washington Public Library about some exciting news — the library has received a $10,000 gift from the Carnegie Corporation of New York. Kathryn says this support is especially meaningful because Carnegie libraries are an important part of American history, and Washington's library is one of the remaining Carnegie libraries still serving its community today. The library continues to be a place for learning, connection, and preserving local history for future generations. Community members can get involved by visiting, volunteering, attending programs, or supporting the library's ongoing efforts to keep this historic treasure thriving.

Katy Jeter visits with Mark Looper of Mark's E-Waste Recycling about why properly recycling electronics is so important for the environment and our communities. Mark explains what electronic items he accepts and how everything collected is disposed of safely and responsibly. He also shares what happens to electronics after they're collected and the steps he takes to keep harmful materials out of landfills.

Katy Jeter talked with Tommy McNish, the son of Judge Laura Johnson-McNish, about an upcoming special election education event happening February 3 at Landoll Lanes. The event begins at 5:00 p.m. and is expected to last about a half an hour, giving attendees time to learn and ask questions. Tommy explained why it's important for people to understand how the judicial selection process works before voting. He also encouraged potential voters to educate themselves and shared that additional information can be found through trusted, nonpartisan resources ahead of the election.

Katy Jeter talks with Greg Boss and Dennis Mason about Cans 4 Kansas Honor Flights, a program inspired by their desire to support fellow veterans and help them experience the Honor Flight they deserve. As Vietnam War veterans, they share what the mission means to them personally and explain why pulling the tabs off cans helps raise additional funds for the Ronald McDonald House. They also highlight where listeners can drop off aluminum cans and tabs, and how the community can get involved or support Cans 4 Kansas Honor Flights to help honor Kansas veterans.

Katy Jeter talks with Tom Bliss from the Southeast Nebraska Development District about SENDD's mission to support local communities through housing, infrastructure, and development programs across southeast Nebraska. Tom highlights recent accomplishments, including successful CDBG grant projects, expanded home buying assistance, and efforts to renovate homes for affordable resale. They also discuss SENDD's goals for the coming year and how communities and individuals can get involved or learn more about available programs.

Katy Jeter visits with Maureen Crist and Greg Yager to discuss the future of the Blue River Rail Trail and the exciting plans taking shape. They share the vision for the intersection of 7th Street and Center Street, along with how the 7th Street Loop will help improve connectivity and flow throughout the area. The conversation highlights goals for the next few months, including continued planning and community engagement. Together, they outline the long-term benefits the trail will bring to the city, from enhanced recreation to economic growth and a stronger sense of community.

Katy Jeter spoke with Perry Gydesen about the new addition to Odell Park, where he explained that his involvement began through a long-standing passion for community spaces. The project, inspired by community feedback and the need for more inclusive recreational areas, will feature walking trails, picnic areas and storm shelters. Construction is expected to begin next spring with phased openings through late 2026, and residents are encouraged to support the project through donations to the Odell Community Foundation. To stay updated or volunteer, community members can sign up for the project.

KNDY News - 1/1/2026 (Happy New Year!)

Katy Jeter talks with Ellen Barber about the vision for transforming Lake Idlewild into a nature-focused community destination that balances recreation, conservation, and education. Ellen explains that the push for more thoughtful trail development grew from community interest in safer access, environmental stewardship, and better connections around the lake. She highlights expanding outdoor education opportunities for both kids and adults, made possible through strong partnerships and volunteer involvement. Together, these efforts are helping strengthen a sense of community while laying the groundwork for long-term sustainability and future generations to enjoy Lake Idlewild.

Katy Jeter talks with Jeannie Walker and Jill Duis about the Washington County Food Pantry, discussing the communities they serve and the history that shaped the organization. They explain how often the pantry is open, the impact it has on local families, and the volunteers who keep everything running smoothly. Jeannie and Jill also share their goals for the future and how community members can get involved or donate. They close with a heartfelt message of gratitude and encouragement for continued community support.

Katy Jeter talks with Dennis Cashier about the Marshall County Food Pantry, also known as Helping Hands, discussing the communities they serve and the history behind the organization. Dennis shares how often the pantry is open, the impact it has on local families, and the dedicated volunteers who help keep operations running. He also highlights future goals and ways community members can get involved or donate. Dennis closes with a heartfelt message of gratitude and encouragement for the community's continued support.

Katy Jeter talks with Adrianne Meyer about the first-ever Holidays in Hanover celebration, a new community event bringing festive fun to downtown Hanover. Adrianne shares when and where the event takes place, including the start time, and walks listeners through activities like shopping, treats, and holiday entertainment. She also discusses the goals and expectations for launching this new tradition and how they hope it will grow. Adrianne wraps up by explaining the many ways community members and local businesses can get involved and support the event.

Katy Jeter talks with Marsha Schell and Sierra Landoll about Santa's Closet—what the program is, how it began, and the mission behind it. They explain who is eligible to participate, how families can sign up, and what the process looks like on the day of the event. Marsha and Sierra also highlight the types of donations being accepted, how community members can give monetary support, and the overwhelmingly positive response from the community. They wrap up by sharing the best ways to get involved, including volunteering to help bring a little extra holiday joy to local families.

Katy Jeter talks with Jenni Ebert about some of the biggest misunderstandings surrounding the fentanyl crisis and why this synthetic opioid is far more dangerous than others. Jenni explains the warning signs of fentanyl poisoning or overdose and highlights practical ways to educate youth and families. She also discusses the vital role schools and community organizations play in preventing fentanyl-related deaths, along with what inspired her to get involved in raising awareness. Finally, Jenni shares the actions everyone should be taking to help address the ongoing fentanyl crisis.