Fireworks Stands Opening in Kearney

Fireworks stands are already popping up around Kearney, but consumers will have to wait a few more days before they are legally allowed to shoot off their noisemakers.

Fireworks vendors are allowed to be open from 9 am to midnight every day from June 20 until July 5.

The Kearney Police Department reminds residents that fireworks may only be discharged from June 28 to July 3, between the hours of 9 am to 10 pm. On July 4, fireworks may be discharged between the hours of 9 am to 11 pm. Fireworks may not be fired or discharged except on the individual’s own property or with the permission of the property owners.

People should not fire any fireworks in a way that would threaten or injure another person. Fireworks may be discharged at other times and places with the permission of the City. Bottle Rockets are ILLEGAL in Kearney City Limits.

Fireworks vendors are allowed to be open from 9 am to midnight every day from June 20 until July 5.

This year Kearney’s fireworks celebration will be on Wednesday, July 3. The fireworks display will be at Jesse James Park and the city will have inflatables for the kids and a free concert featuring Funk Syndicate. The concert starts at 7:30 pm, and the fireworks start at 9:30 pm.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story

Kearney Man Dead; Wife Charged with Murder

The Clay County Sheriff’s Office has announced on Tuesday, June 18, they are investigating the death of a Kearney man as a homicide. The incident happened at a residence northeast of town.

Melissa I. Hoffner-Allen - Clay County Sheriff’s Office Photo

A caller to 911 reported that a man had been shot in a home at 10 pm on Tuesday. The victim, later identified as 50-year-old Ricky Allen, was shot in a home at the 16200 block of Kountry Ridge Drive and died at the scene.

Clay County Deputies were able to take into custody his wife Melissa I. Hoffner-Allen.

Hoffner-Allen has been charged with second-degree murder and armed criminal action, and she is being held in the Clay County Detention Center on a bond of $250,000.

No further statements have been released about this case. More details on will be published when they become available.

Brian Watts contributed to this story.

Kearney Farmers Market Named Top Winner

The Kearney Chamber of Commerce announced that the Kearney Farmers’ Market was selected as 2024 Best Northland Farmers’ Market in the popular Courier-Tribune feature.

The Kearney Farmers Market, offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate local agriculture, and support small businesses.

The Kearney Farmers Market has been honored as a Top Winner in the Best Farmers Market Category of the annual BEST OF THE NORTHLAND Voting. This prestigious recognition highlights the market's dedication to providing the community with fresh, locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods.

The market, produced by the Kearney Chamber of Commerce, has become a beloved fixture in the town, drawing residents and visitors alike to experience its vibrant atmosphere and high-quality offerings. This award reflects the hard work and passion of the local farmers, vendors, and organizers who strive to make each market day a memorable experience.

"We are thrilled and deeply honored to be recognized as a Top Winner in the Best Farmers Market Category," said Stacie Bratcher, Executive Director of the Kearney Chamber of Commerce. "This award is a testament to the incredible efforts of our local vendors and the enthusiastic support of our community. We look forward to continuing to grow and enhance the Kearney Farmers Market, ensuring it remains a cornerstone of our town's culture and a source of pride for all who participate."

The Kearney Farmers Market, held weekly, offers a unique opportunity for the community to come together, celebrate local agriculture, and support small businesses.

Readers have participated in the newspaper’s Best of the Northland feature for 34 years. Each year readers vote in 140 different categories or themes and select what they believe to be the best of the Northland.

KPGZ News - Brian Watts contributed to this story.