The Lake County Air Quality Management District has announced minor changes to its 2025-26 burn program. The burn ban ends November 1st, but specific holidays will be no-burn days. Burn permits will be available online from November 1st at www.lcaqmd.net. A smoke management plan burn permit is required for multi-day/overnight burning, and other types of burns that could have potential smoke impacts.

The Lake County Sheriff’s office reports 14-year-old girl, Nova Fabisch, has been arrested in connection with a stabbing that occurred last week. Deputies located and arrested Fabisch in Lakeport on Friday. She faces charges of assault with a deadly weapon, battery causing serious bodily injury, and attempted murder. Following her arrest, Fabisch was transferred into the custody of the Lake County Probation Office. According to the Lake County News that Fabisch’s case is being handled as a juvenile matter.

The Surface Transportation Board (STB) has affirmed Mendocino Railway’s Class III status since 2004, ensuring federal jurisdiction and resolving legal disputes. This stability enables the railway to preserve the California Western/Skunk Train’s Redwood Route. The railway sought confirmation in July due to issues with local and state agencies after acquiring the Fort Bragg Mill Site. Mendocino Railway is now collaborating with the City of Fort Bragg and the California Coastal Commission on a Master Development Agreement for the 300-acre site, with 92% under local oversight.

Frontline employees at eight Sutter Health facilities, including Sutter Lakeside, have reached a tentative agreement with management, avoiding a strike. SEIU-United Healthcare Workers West (SEIU-UHW), representing over 4,400 workers, had voted to strike with 96% support. The union stated the agreement addresses staffing, working conditions, pay, and benefits. The tentative agreement, offering 14% raises and protected benefits, requires a ratification vote from union members later this month.

Cowley College continues to strengthen its commitment to preparing future educators and childcare professionals through its partnership with Belle Plaine High School. Students enrolled in Belle Plaine’s dual credit program are working toward earning a Child Development Certificate through Cowley College’s Early Childhood Education program. According to Janet Clasen, Director of Childcare and Development/Early Childhood Education at Cowley College, many students across the state are completing this certificate as part of their academic journey. “We provide the opportunity to partner with area high schools, childcare learning centers all over the state, health departments, Head Start programs, and many more,” Clasen said.

Cowley County Community Based Services, in partnership with the 19th Judicial District Court, USD 470, USD 465, USD 462, and USD 471 has announced the launch of the Cowley County Truancy Court Program, a new initiative focused on improving student attendance and supporting families through early intervention and community collaboration. Parents, educators, service providers, and community members are encouraged to join us for one of two informational meetings where we’ll introduce the program, explain the referral process, and answer any questions you may have!

The City of Ark City says we understand it’s disappointing to see trees being removed downtown – we feel the same way. However, the trees planted years ago were not the right fit for their locations. Over time, their roots have damaged curbs and sidewalks, blocked drainage, and interfered with underground water and electrical lines. After ongoing maintenance problems and complaints from nearby businesses, City crews are removing the affected trees to prevent further damage and safety hazards. We share the community’s regret, but this work is necessary to protect downtown’s utilities, streets, and storefronts from ongoing maintenance problems.

The Ark City P.D. says We’ve been made aware of a scam going around where individuals are calling and pretending to be actual officers from the Arkansas City Police Department. They’re telling people they’ve missed jury duty on a civil or criminal matter and then asking for personal information. Please know – this is a SCAM! Our officers will never call you asking for personal information, payment, or anything related to jury duty. If you receive one of these calls, hang up immediately and contact us on here, at 620-441-4547 or [email protected].

Wellington Community – You’re Invited!
Cowley College is hosting a Meet & Greet with College Leadership at the Sumner Campus on Monday, October 20, 2025.
5:00 – 5:45 p.m. – Informational session & campus tour
6:00 p.m. – Board of Trustees meeting
Come meet the Board of Trustees and College Administration, learn about current initiatives, and explore the campus. This event is free and open to the public!

The City of Roswell Community Development Department will be closed Tuesday-Wednesday, Oct. 21-22, in order to move its offices to a new location. The department will move from its current location in the Sunwest Centre at 500 N. Main St. to the office building at 400 W. Second St. (the corner of West Second Street and North Kentucky Avenue). The department will reopen to the public at its new location Thursday, Oct. 23.

The Community Development Department has five divisions: Planning and Zoning, Code Enforcement, Building Inspections, Business Licenses, and Real Property.

The City of Roswell apologizes for this inconvenience during the relocation and thanks the public for its understanding and patience.