VFW Honors Student for Outstanding Essay

Kearney Junior High eighth-grader Ellianna Murrell was honored recently by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1668 in St. Joseph, Mo., for her essay written in response to the prompt, “Why America Inspires Me.”

Murrell earned second place in the VFW post’s essay contest. The honorees were celebrated during an event in January at the post. Murrell received a certificate of merit and $100.

Murrell is a student in one of Kearney Junior High eighth-grade American history teacher Scott Crall’s classes. Mr. Crall had his students respond to the VFW essay prompt as part of their classwork. He then submitted the essays to the post for the contest.

Theresa Murrell, Ellianna’s mother, was very grateful that Crall gave his students this opportunity.

“I am so proud of her and I’m thankful to you as I did not even realize that this program existed,” Theresa Murrell wrote in an email to Crall. “Thank you for inspiring your students to write about this incredible country that they are blessed to live in.”

Ray Weikal, Kearney School District contributed to this story.

Hiring Fair Connects Job Seekers and Employers

The Kearney Chamber of Commerce connects job seekers of all ages with local employers at its 4th annual Hiring Fair. The event will take place on Thursday, April 11, from 3 to 6 pm.

The Hiring Fair is open to all employers who have unfilled staff positions or anticipate having open positions in the near future; providing an opportunity for businesses to actively interview and hire potential employees on the spot, as-well-as for job seekers to learn about career opportunities.

Registration for area businesses is $50 for Chamber members and $100 for non-members (discounts and sponsorships available). Registration includes table space, chairs, bottled water, and hospitality cart. Private rooms will also be available for businesses who would like to conduct on-site interviews.

The 4th annual Hiring Fair will be held at the Kearney United Methodist Church on Thursday, April 11, from 3 to 6 pm. It’s open to all area companies and individuals, and professionals of all levels are highly encouraged to attend and participate.

For more information contact the Chamber of Commerce office at 816-628-4229 or by email at Stacie@KearneyChamber.org.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Next Community Cares Event Scheduled

The Kearney Enrichment Council, who helps families and individuals in the community in several ways has scheduled its second Community Cares project date.

The Enrichment Council helps low-income families through the Kearney Family Foundation, Kearney Shop with a Cop, and rental assistance.

The next Community Cares event is scheduled for February 24, at the Porter Ridge Apartments, 500 Porter Ridge Rd, from 3:30 to 4:30 pm. The next location is at the Holt Community Fire Protection District’s station, 260 Missouri Highway 33 from 5 to 6 pm.

Just as in January, the Enrichment Council will load a vehicle with clothing, hygiene kits, and hot food. At each station needy individuals will be able to talk to volunteers and receive their items.

After individuals get clothes, hats, and gloves, they can also receive a hot meal and drink. There is no fee for these items, but the Enrichment Council asks that those truly in need receive the items.

If you have any questions or concerns please send us an email at: kec@kearneyenrichment.org.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story