BPU completes South Well Field Project; MCCF offers student loan repayment; City commission updates; United Way awards; COVID-19 cluster closes Hillsborough Senior Center
Ad Astra Podcast
Week of September 03 2024
Good morning, citizens of McPherson. This is the McPherson Citizen Journal daily brief for the week of September 3rd, 2024 AD. I'm here to bring you the latest news headlines. Let's dive into today's top stories. Today in McPherson News, we're tracking the McPherson Board of Public Utilities completes a major water project, MCCF scholarships, City Commission updates, and we have recognition for local businesses from the United Way. Plus, an unfortunate COVID, 19 cluster shuts down a senior center in Marion County. We also cover the latest from McPherson High School Fall Sports. Let's dive in. 1. McPherson BPU completes Southwell Field Project. On August 27th, McPherson's Board of Public Utilities celebrated the completion of the Southwell Field Project with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the New Water Treatment Facility. Over 70 attendees, including State Senator Rick Wilborn, were on hand to recognize the importance of this project in securing McPherson's water future. The New Wellfield and Treatment Facility will provide a sustainable water source for the city, addressing long-standing concerns about declining water levels in the EquisBeds Aquifer. It's a significant milestone that ensures McPherson can continue to grow and thrive. 2. MCCF Partners with Kansas Commerce for Student Loan Repayment Program The McPherson County Community Foundation, MCCF, has joined forces with the Kansas Department of Commerce to offer student loan repayment assistance to residents. The Rural Opportunity Zone program provides up to $15,000 in loan repayment over five years to individuals who relocate to McPherson County. The MCCF is opening the program to two new participants this year, with the possibility of further expansion. Applications are due by September 30th, so if you're looking for help with your student loans, now is the time to apply. 3. City Commission Updates Concrete Purchase, Fire Truck Restoration, and Parking Changes The McPherson City Commission has been busy. They approved a $213,000 concrete purchase to continue paving work at Fire Station 2, with the City Street Department taking on the project to reduce costs. In addition, Restoration of the 1928 American Low France Fire Truck is almost complete, thanks entirely to community donations. The Commission also implemented a new parking restriction on Hardup Street to ease traffic congestion at a busy intersection. Lastly, Tregfall, General Manager of Turkey Creek Golf Course, has announced his resignation, effective October 25th, after several years of service. 4. United Way Recognizes Local Businesses With 2023 Workplace Campaign Awards United Way of McPherson County honored five local businesses for their fundraising efforts in 2023. Farmers' Alliance Mutual Insurance received the Legacy Award for raising the most money overall, while Decus Auto Body earned the mega-match award for their employee e-match program. Other winners include Farmers' State Bank, CHS McPherson Refinery, and Imprize Bank. 5. COVID-19 Cluster Force's Temporary Closure of Hillsborough Senior Center A COVID-19 outbreak at the Hillsborough Senior Center has forced the facility to close temporarily. Several staff members tested positive, and the center will remain closed until at least September 3rd. We'll continue to monitor this situation as it develops and wish everyone a speedy recovery. Sports McPherson High School Fall Sports Updates McPherson High School Fall Sports are in full swing, and we've got the latest on Girls Golf, Tennis, and Volleyball. Girls' Varsity Golf The McPherson Girls Golf Team secured fifth place out of 16 teams at the Heston Invitational. Leading the way was Andy Bushbaum, who finished third with a score of plus seven. Teammate Brody Coon placed ninth, and the team is looking strong as they aim to compete for top spots at the state level. Coach Treg Falls says, "My goal for our team is to be at state, make the second day, and compete for the top three spots." From what I have seen this summer, we should have three of the top 20 players in Forigolf. The girls have been working hard to improve. Girls' Varsity Tennis The Bullpups Tennis Team dominated the Heston Invitational, finishing first overall. Dragon Rodriguez took first place in number two singles, while Marin Sandbo finished third in number one singles. In doubles, Olsen and Evelyn secured first place in number two doubles, and Unruh, and Leibel took third in number one doubles. An impressive showing as the team looks to avenge their 2023 runner-up finish at state. Girls' Varsity Volleyball The Volleyball team had a busy weekend at their home AVCTL preview tournament, finishing with an overall record of two and three. Winds against Newton and Derby showcased their potential, though losses to Andover, Mays, and Andale were tough. That's all for today's brief. Join us again next week for more news and local updates. This show was produced by Greg Lovey, wishing you a great day ahead. Stay informed and add Astra per Aspira. [Music]