Area school districts that ended classes early included Crete, Milford, Norris and Seward. Many districts also canceled after-school and evening activities.

Administration at Beattie Elementary School first received "concerning reports" regarding a teacher last week and immediately removed the staff member from the classroom.

The Council Monday voted against a bill that would have prevented chemical company W.R. Grace & Co. from establishing a plastics recycling pilot facility at its Columbia headquarters.The council voted ...