The extravaganza is back! Hosted at the Bartlesville Community Center, the Cooking Extravaganza makes its 2019 return this Tuesday starting at 5PM. Organizer Tina Romine explains all the fun taking place tomorrow includes many vendors to browse, and concessions than at 6:30 a handful of chefs will be giving presentations on tips and tricks on their cooking styles. Romine explained tickets cost 14 dollars at the door, 11 dollars online, or 10 dollars in advance at Cliffs Flooring, Prairie Cottage in Pawhuska, Food Pyramid or here at KGGF. She also mentioned they are selling limited VIP tickets, VIP tickets cost 34 dollars but will give plenty of return, you will gain early entry, front row seats, VIP browsing of the booths and a tasting with Mark Spencer. For more information head online to okcookingschool.com

Logan Dunn, Ty Ivey and Colton Weatherby are not only classmates at Fredonia High School, they also share a heart for service. Something they put into action was collecting donations for flood victims in Sarpy and Dodge counties in Nebraska. They've been gathering things like cleaning supplies, bottled water, and canned food. In less than a week, they've collected almost a full trailer of supplies as well as thirty round bails of hay, all donated from their community. The three will be driving the supplies to Nebraska on Friday and appreciates the support from the community.

After the Oswego Community Hospital closed in February, access to health care is finally coming back to Oswego.  Labette health said they would open a temporary clinic to help fill the gap, as that clinic is now set to open on April 1st. Construction workers have been fighting the weather to build a wheelchair ramp for Labette Health's new Clinic and Express Care. Inside,  they have been putting the finishing touches to make the building feel more like a clinic before it opens on April first. This will play as a temporary home until Labette Health can build a permanent clinic in the community.

The clinic is located at 608 Commercial St. in Oswego and will be open Monday through Friday 8 am until 8 pm, and Saturdays from 8 am until 2 pm. Officials say several people have already made appointments. If you want to do the same, just call 620-795-2340.

Coffeyville Community College announces Tony Turner has accepted the position of Women’s Head Basketball Coach.  Turner graduated from Independence High School and continued his career at Independence Community College from 1985-87 where he held the single-season record for assists of 244 for nearly 20 years.  He concluded his playing career at Morehead State in Kentucky.  Prior to his current post as Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Independence Community College, Turner served as the Head Women’s Basketball Coach for ICC.  In his time at ICC, he has the “Most Wins” in ICC Women’s Basketball history, earned Jayhawk Conference-Eastern Division Coach of the Year award and two conference titles.  Turner’s record as a Women’s Head Coach was 157-67.    

Turner and his wife, Molly, have three  children and one grandchild.  

For the second week in a row Coffeyville's planned Downtown Cleanup has been postponed due to the threat of rain Saturday morning.  Organizers say they will announce another date for the cleanup at a later time.  

Tonight is the kick off for the 2019 Relay for Life of Montgomery County. The Event Lead, Conley Cornell, says it's a special event that brings people together. Click to hear her on the airwaves tell us about the free t-shirts and why this event is so important . Cornell says not many things bring people together like cancer does. The kick off is tonight from 7 to 8:30 at the Sleep Inn, Coffeyville. Survivors, grab your free “purple” t-shirt, sweet treats for everyone and chance to win fun door prizes. Conley welcomes inquiries at 620-252-8036 and check out the Facebook page, "Relay for Life of Montgomery County Kansas".

See copy of their flyer:

https://kggfradio.com/assets/files/Relay%20for%20Life(2).jpg

The hearing for Sheriff Robert Dierks was suspended from office Friday morning, March 29.  The court hearing was canceled, but KGGF was in touch with Special Prosecutor Hiatt who sent us a copy of the order filed by the Chief District Court Judge, Daniel D. Creitz who filed that Dierks “stands accused of committing the crimes of Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer or, in the alternative, Attempted Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, and Intimidation of a Witness, class A and B misdemeanors respectively.”

The order states that on March 20, the State of Kansas filed the application for suspension, and “in consideration of the allegations contained in the Petition” (filed by Hiatt), and “based on the agreement between the plaintiff and defendant in this matter”, the Court found “good cause” to suspend Dierks "effective immediately" and "until a final hearing and determination has been made". The suspension will “remain in place until further order”.

Undersheriff Richard George has been appointed as Sheriff of Montgomery County on a temporary basis, and as “acting sheriff” is responsible for carrying out all legal duties and obligations of the position. More details are available to the public at Montgomery County Judicial Center, at the Clerk's office on the 2^nd floor. For case number and links, go to kggfradio.com and click on the article update. Case number for State of Kansas vs. Robert W. Dierks is 2019-CV-000024-I-OT (click to pull up a copy of the Order of Suspension).

First page of the order with judge's signature:

Three days of events lined up for Easter for the Coffeyville Recreation Commission. CRC Director David Rains says it all starts with the edible Easter basket and will wrap with the Underwater Eggstravaganza.

Rains says they do need a minimum number of 15 participants and a maximum of 50. It will take place April 19^th from 1:00pm to 2:30pm. Registration is $5 in district and $7 out.

An arrest has been made in the shooting that happened near Madison Middle School in Bartlesville this morning. The Bristow police arrested 24-year-old Caleb Logan McCabe. McCabe allegedly fled the scene of the shooting. The Bristow Police Department arrested McCabe in the Bristow Walmart earlier this afternoon. A citizen in the area recognized a photo of McCabe released by police and informed officers of McCabe's location. Police Captain Jay Hastings reports that McCabe’s vehicle, a gray Dodge Challenger with Texas tags was located abandoned on I - 44 westbound near Bristow. Police were searching for the car immediately following the shooting. Hastings reported the shooting took place in the 6000 block of Baylor, across from Madison Middle School at about 5:00 this morning.

One person was flown to the hospital by helicopter. He is listed in stable condition. Hastings also reported that several people, and firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, were involved in the incident.

Coffeyville Mayor Paul Bauer and commissioners declared April 2^nd as National Service Recognition Day. At Tuesday's commission meeting Mayor Bauer read and presented a proclamation to Linda Henning from Four County RSVP to declare the special day to recognize those who serve in their communities.

The Kansas Senate confirms Governor Laura Kelly's pick for Secretary of Revenue. In a 38-1 vote, Mark Burghart will be appointed as head of the state department. Burghart will oversee the state tax, driver's license, alcohol beverage control, and property valuation systems. He comes to the positon with more than 30 years experience in tax service. And he has previously served in the Kansas Department of Revenue as its first severance tax attorney and as General Counsel.

Bartlesville police are looking for the occupants of a gray Dodge Challenger with Texas plates. Police Captain Jay Hastings reports there was a shooting in the 6000 block of Baylor across from Madison Middle School at about 5:00 Thursday morning. One person was flown to the hospital by helicopter. Captain Hastings reports several people and firearms, including an AR-15 rifle, were involved in the incident.

Police say it is not a threat to Madison Middle School nor Hoover Elementary. Both were in session Thursday while police were on scene at Madison to help with detours while the crime scene is being processed. Officers on campus gave reaassurance at the schools of no threat to students and staff.

Coffeyville water department employees were drilling under the sidewalk and street earlier this week to install a new water tap for the 9th Street Fresh Community Garden. The garden's project manager Terry Vernon reports that all free garden plots have been reserved. Last week the land was tilled by Jeff Graham Construction, and now with water, planting may begin.

Sidewalks in Coffeyville. Coffeyville city commissioners unanimously approved awarding the contract for the Safe Routes to School Grant. The Superintendent of Engineering, Thomas Osborn, tells us about it. Click to listen to Osborn on KGGF airwaves give details of the sidewalk construction on roads near Community Elementary.

Osborne said Coffeyville had a maximum award of $400,000 for this “first” phase of sidewalk construction, and were able to get a bid for just under that, so with the 80-20 grant, the city will pay about $78,000 of the $400,000 project.

Coffeyville's 10^th Street Improvement Project has been underway. Thomas Osborn tells us about the project paid for by another grant the city received from the state. Listen to Osborne on KGGF airwaves talk about the project. Jeff Graham Construction and Muller Construction were working at the intersection of 10^th & Gillam earlier this week.

The Council on International and Educational Exchange (CIEE) program has placed two students in Coffeyville this year. Jan Wonhofer from Germany goes by John and Natdanai Vaosook from Thailand goes by Nate. They addressed city officials at this week's commission meeting. Here's John from Germany sharing about his experience in our community. And Nate from Thailand shares with us on KGGF airwaves.

John is staying with the Rocky and Trisha Starnes family, and Nate is hosted by the Doug and Christie Mund family. To get involved in the international exchange program, go to CIEE.org.

A recent update from the National Institute of Drug Abuse shows that Kansas had 146 opioid-related overdose deaths in 2016, a rate of 5.1 deaths per 100,000 people, and that's a little over 8 points below the national rate of 13.3. Opioids include pain pills and street narcotics such as heroin.

It's small towns and counties that are bearing the brunt of the cost. Packed jails, increased ambulance runs, overworked coroners, sheriffs deputies and public defenders are just a few of the consequences. The first to go to trial in the sweeping legal action against the opioid industry are local governments in Ohio and West Virginia that are particularly hard hit.

If you'd like to reach out for more information, contact our local treatment center, Four County Mental Health at fourcounty.com.

Fourth year in a row the Junior Advisory Board of the Inter-State Fair will hold its Spring Steer and Heifer Jackpot Show. This year’s show will be held in Coffeyville at Walter Johnson Park and will take place on Sunday, April 7. Check-in is from 7:30 am to 9 am. The show starts at 10 am, with heifers showing first. The show is open to 4-H, FFA and breed association members who are 21 years of age or younger as of January 1, 2019. The show is a fundraiser for the JAB’s scholarships. Buckles will be awarded for the grand steer and grand heifer and for the reserve steer and the reserve heifer. Buckles will also be given for the grand champion junior and senior showmanship contests.

Cash prizes will go to breed champions and supreme champion overall. The entry fee for the show is $30 per animal and $10 for showmanship. Pre-registration is not required.

Monday night the USD 465 Board of Education members met in executive session and chose Chanute Assistant Principal and Activities Director Eric Flaton as the new Principal at Winfield High School.  Flaton has been at Chanute for the past two years and prior to that he taught language arts in Pittsburg.  His 13 years of experience also include Field Kindley High School, Ulysses High School, Erie Junior High School and Altoona-Midway High School. 

Flaton was named the “Southeast Kansas League’s Coach of the Year” in 2014, 16 and 17 and also the “Sports in Kansas Class 4A Coach of the Year” in 2014. He has his leadership certification from Newman University, Communications and History degree from the University of Kansas, and Master of Science in Teaching from Pittsburg State University. Flaton begins his new job at WHS on July 1st. 

Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas says the Green New Deal is damaging and irresponsible. He released the following statement after voting against the Green New Deal on Tuesday, Mar. 26:

“The Green New Deal is an irresponsible proposal that fails to recognize the significant advancements and efforts being made by Kansas farmers and ranchers to protect our soil, air and water. How we do things matters, and while we must continue working to conserve our environment, we ought to do so in a commonsense manner. Besides costing trillions of dollars, proposals contained in the Green New Deal would raise energy prices for Kansas families, harm small businesses and manufacturers and cost our state jobs.”

Moran says this so-called “deal” is a divisive step backward that takes away from serious policy discussions about efforts to address the changing climate. He says many coastal elites choose to overlook the significant contributions rural America makes to the issues facing our nation and he remains committed to working in a bipartisan way to support NASA, NOAA and the research they conduct in climate science for continued innovation.

Starting Monday, April 1^st, a new Kansas law is allowing grocery stores and convenience stores to sell full-strength beer with up to 6 percent alcohol, as opposed to 3.2 percent. And now liquor stores are allowed to add product to their shelves, including non-alcoholic items such as sodas, mixers, chasers, snacks, and tobacco which will be sold behind the counter.

Those non-alcoholic products cannot exceed 20 percent of the store's gross sales. Liquor stores will still be the only ones selling 10-15 percent alcohol craft beer. This change increases the number of strong beer locations from 760 to over 3,000, creating a more convenient expereince for customers at all stores. This comes from a law signed by former Governor Sam Brownback in 2017.

Reversible abortions? After long debate, the Kansas House of Representatives allowed a bill to pass its first round on Monday that would require health care professionals to inform women about the option to reverse an abortion. To induce a medical, or non-surgical abortion, two pills are required to be taken in sequence. The first is Mifepristone or RU486, and the second is called Misoprostol. Proponents say a reversal can be done by administering a large dose of progesterone, a female hormone blocked by the first pill. 

The bill would require health care professionals to notify patients that a doctor can intervene and halt an abortion before the second pill is ingested. The law would require all facilities administering a medical abortion to post a sign on their premises notifying patients, and those who fail to comply would be subject to a $10,000 fine.

If a medical abortion is done without notifying the patient of the reversal option, they could be sued for damages by the woman or the father of the unborn child. Kansas Rep. John Eplee says this is a pro-women's bill giving women an option. Opponents claim it is not backed by science, and it's also not FDA approved. To track Bill 2274, go to THIS page. 

Julie Lorenz was confirmed by the Senate Tuesday, Mar. 26 as Secretary of the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT).  Appointed by Gov. Laura Kelly in January 2019 as Secretary of KDOT, Lorenz also serves as the Director of the Kansas Turnpike Authority. Kelly says she is an expert in transportation and understands how critical it is to the Kansas economy.

Lorenz has been a transportation leader for two decades. During her time as Director of Public Affairs and Special Assistant from 2003 to 2011, Lorenz led the $8.2 billion, 10-year T-WORKS funding program in spring 2010. She says she looks forward to developing “a supportable vision, completing T-WORKS and crafting the next plan for long-term, sustainable success.

Linda McFate from the Brown Mansion is inviting the public to their Friends of the Mansion meeting held tomorrow, Thursday at 7:00pm. She says anyone who would like to learn more about becoming a member or help with projects benefitting the mansion is invited to attend. A program will be led by Kris Krane of the Historical Society, followed by a meeting with refreshments and drawing for door prizes. For more information on the event, future events, or how to become a Friend of the Mansion, call Linda at 620-870-0490.

Area residents are invited to attend a drop-in reception for new Independence Community College Head Football Coach Kiyoshi Harris. Taking place this Saturday March 30, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Independence Country Club. Harris has served the past two seasons as Associate Head Coach, Offensive Line Coach and Recruiting Coordinator, during which the Pirates won the Jayhawk Conference Championship and the Midwest Bowl Classic. He had recently been filling the role of interim head coach before accepting the permanent position earlier this month. The reception will be an opportunity to meet Harris and his football staff as they prepare for the fall season as they hope to see you there!

Road Work in Southeast Kansas! As a new policy in transportation comes for review this week Representative Rich Proehl expands on how it will affect us down here in the S.E.K. if the bill gets passed. House Bill 23-73 is A transportation policy that would include finishing the T-Works project, preservation of existing roads and new modernization ideas for our roadways as Representative Rich Proehl is happy with the initial reaction. He says so far it has been a real positive reaction to the policy and believes this one will move forward.  He also mentioned little trailer bills along with the policy, that includes the possibility of adding tolling fast lanes. House Bill 23-69 which would authorize for additional toll roads by putting Hot Lanes in certain areas. He expects House Bill 23-73 to move forward and encourages you if you ever have any questions concerning these things to call your area representative.

Are you thinking about opening a business in Montgomery County? Trisha Purdon with the Montgomery County Action Council gives us a recap of the small business workshop they hosted, and how it may be easier to open up shop than you think. Purdon said during their small business workshop, they had immediate interest of businesses coming to Coffeyville. They toured the downtown area buildings and explained how to potentially access close to 250,000 dollars in financing. Purdon explained we live in a unique market and can be a bit more flexible you just need the right information and M.C.A.C. is there to help. Purdon explained though our population may be decreasing, our workforce is up from this time last year. Making a potential perfect setting to open or expand your business right here in Montgomery County. For more information on financing or later Small Business Workshops call M.C.A.C. at 620-331-3830.

After the shooting at G&W Foods Monday, Cherryvale Police Chief Jimmy Holt encourages residents to talk to him (click HERE to hear him on KGGF airwaves). While Chief Holt is not the contact regarding the investigation (neither is Montgomery County Sheriff's Office - KBI is the contact for the investigation), he encourages residents to contact him about any concerns or issues they need help with in Cherryvale. You may call him at 620-336-2400.

Montgomery County's Director of Emergency Management, Rick Whitson, received funds from both Independence and Coffeyville Walmarts to pay for two drones to help increase safety and efficiency during emergencies. One drone will be stationed in Coffeyville due to the industries in the city such as the refinery. The other drone will be in Independence centrally located.

KGGF met with Whitson after yesterday's county commission meeting where he gave details and took a photo with one of the Walmart checks. Whitson explained these drones have remote video and voice capability. They can fly to the top of structures on fire, track runaway suspects, or find victims in need of care and protection. The total amount for both drones is $8,000. Whitson says he's working on securing a grant for a $28,000 drone that can withstand weather and storms, and can even carry and drop supplies to people in need.

Stay tuned to hear Rick Whitson on KGGF airwaves. For more information, contact Montgomery County Emergency Management at 620-330-7040.

Kansas Appleseed is a grassroots organization reaching out to to people when faced with hardship and food insecurity. They understand a lot a lot of grocery stores in Southeast Kansas have been closing down, and in many cases there are only convenience stores without fresh produce. With their very own lobbyist, Kansas Appleseed gives a voice to residents as they address our legislators in Topeka.

Marcee Bender, the Executive Director of  Wesley House points out that putting a face to the issue helps since many state representatives are removed from the daily lives of their constituents. Kansas Appleseed is currently working to help citizens sign up for the SNAP food benefits so they have better access. They are also working to increase registered voters in low income areas. To get involved or find out more, go to their Facebook page HERE.

The month of April is the annual Clean Up Kansas Campaign with Adopt-A-Highway program. By cleaning along roadways throughout the state, we increase safety for motorists and pedestrians as well as improve the beauty of Kansas. It also helps raise awareness about pollution and the benefits of a clean community. Non-profit groups can join at no cost. Members must be at least 11 years old and minors must have adult supervision. 

Clean-ups are three times a year as convenient, and groups are recognized with signs marking their sections of the highway. This event, as well as the program, is sponsored by the Kansas Department of Transportation. All Adopt-A-Highway groups are encouraged to participate in the statewide event. For more information, contact the KDOT Southeast Kansas office in Chanute at 620-902-6400.

Special Prosecutor J. Todd Hiatt asserts that Montgomery County Sheriff Robert Dierks willfully engaged in misconduct and neglected to perform his duties required by law relating to the 2018 arrest of his ex girlfriend, Valerie Smith, and therefore his actions require suspension of office. Dierks allegedly attempted to dissuade Deputy Hurst in his investigation, asking him to remove Smith from the scene without an arrest.

The petition includes two counts. One, that Dierks knowingly obstructed Hurst as he was arresting Smith, and his conduct constituted interference with law enforcement. Two, it states that Dierks' contact with Hurst's immediate supervisors and Undersheriff Richard George as he tried to gain their assistance to prevent Hurst from attending Smith's administrative hearing was by definition Intimidation of a Witness.

Dierks says he's ready for his day in court and thinks this is unfair to Smith, and also says he will expose County Attorney Larry Markle “for what he really is”. No comment yet from Markle, but Hiatt responded to KGGF yesterday that due to Kansas Rules of Professional Conduct 3.6 on Trial Publicity and 3.8 on Special Responsibilities of a Prosecutor, he said "there is very little I am able to talk about at this time." Hiatt welcomes specific questions by email.

The hearing for Dierks' pending suspension will be held March 29, 9:30am in Courtroom B of Montgomery County District Court.

The Cherryvale shooting at G&W Foods is under investigation by the KBI along with Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and the Cherryvale Police Department. At about 3:35pm, an employee of G&W held a coworker hostage in an office in the northwest area of the store. Shortly after employees and customers began evacuating the store, gunshots were heard.

As authorities entered the office, they witnessed 28-year-old Jamal Brown shoot himself. They also located Brown's 39-year-old coworker, Luke Emmot suffering from gunshot wounds. Emmot, the victim and general manager of Cherryvale's G&W Foods and resident of Independence, was flown to a Joplin hospital where he underwent surgery. The suspect, Brown, was stabilized at a local hospital and then flown to a Tulsa hospital, but later died. It was found that Brown, the store assistant manager, shot Emmot twice, and then turned the gun on himself. Emmot is expected to make a complete recovery. G&W Foods remains closed pending the conclusion of the investigation.

Authorities are still on the scene of a shooting at the G&W Foods grocery store in Cherryvale late this afternoon.  According to reports two people have been shot in what may have been an attempted murder/suicide.  A source told KGGF News that the store manager was shot and transported to Labette Medical Center in Parsons and is now being life-flighted to Joplin.  The same source also told KGGF that the shooter was also shot.  Authorities are not releasing his location at this time.  The condition of the two victims is not known at this time.  We will have more as it becomes available. 

Oklahoma residents will be unable to vape in public if a proposed bill gets the governor's signature. House Bill 1389, which would modify the Smoking in Public Places and Indoor Workplaces Act, would ban the smoking of e-cigarettes and vaping in public places. The bill would also include marijuana and prohibit smoking in the presence of persons under the age of 18. It has passed the House and is now headed to the Senate.

The historic Kansas homesite of the Charles Ingalls Family looks forward to hosting guests beginning Monday, April 1, 2019.  The Little House on the Prairie Museum works to preserve the site where children’s author Laura Ingalls-Wilder’s family homesteaded in Kansas. Laura wrote about her experiences in the book, Little House on the Prairie. The site features a replica cabin; the hand-dug well by Charles Ingalls; historic Sunny Side School; and the 19th century post office from Wayside, KS.  Following opening day, on Saturday April 6th, all admission fees will be donated to the Kansas Children's Service League (KCSL).  The museum will recognize KCSL’s “Chairish the Children Day.” 

The site is open seven days a week 10 a.m. to 5p.m.,  weather permitting.   The museum is located just off of US 75,  12 miles south of Independence or 12 miles north of Caney.  More information is available at littlehouseontheprairie.com.  

Coffeyville is getting ready for a new grocery store, Nichols Hitching Post. John and Sherrie Nichols of Nichols Trading Post in Parsons are opening their 2nd location in Coffeyville, and owner John Nichols tells us about the food and produce auctions (click to hear John on KGGF airwaves).

John said they are looking for a space to hold auctions in Coffeyville like they do in Parsons. The store auctions are separate from the Amish produce auctions, and if they have them in Coffeyville to "clean up" the store, John said the location for the auction will need to have an open area and big garage doors for deliveries.

Note that the produce auction in Dennis, Kansas, has a "massive amount" of food grown by local Amish farmers, and while they have not jumped through the hoops to get the USDA "Organic" symbol, the Amish grow their food organically without harmful pesticides.

They are shooting for April 1^st grand opening, but it might be closer to the middle of the month.

The City of Coffeyville has their regularly scheduled commission meeting Tuesday evening at 6:30 at City Hall. A peek at the agenda shows they will be looking at rezoning property located at 1108 W. 12th from a Single Family Residential to Light Industrial. Resolutions include one to authorize the execution of a multi-year contract for audit services with Jarred, Gilmore & Phillips. Another is for the execution of a tower lease agreement with Atmos Energy, and another resolution to authorize the award contract and the commitment of city funds for the 2019 Safe Routes to School Grant. Commissioners will also look to approve Coffeyville Clean-Up Programs and the purchase of downtown beautification materials.

They always welcome public comments, so drop in at 102 W. 7^th St. For questions, call the City Clerk Cindy Price at 620-252-6108.

Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released the following statement concerning Attorney General William Barr's summary to Congress of Special Counsel Robert Mueller's report:

"I have reviewed Attorney General William Barr’s Special Counsel summary to Congress that concludes what many in the United States already know: there was no collusion between the Trump campaign and Russia during the 2016 presidential election. After months of calling for the Special Counsel's protection, Democrats now say his report is insufficient, even after millions of dollars spent for nearly two years, 19 lawyers and 40 FBI agents, more than 2,800 subpoenas, and nearly 500 search warrants. I’m hopeful that with the conclusion of the Special Counsel, our country can come together and move past the bitter partisan divide of the previous presidential election."

The summary from Attorney General William Barr notes that in consultation with Deputy Attorney Rod Rosenstein, there is insufficient evidence "to establish that the president committed an obstruction-of-justice offense." He also notes that given the legal restrictions, "the schedule for processing the report depends in part on how quickly the Department can identify the 6(e) material that by law cannot be made public" and that he "also must identify any information that could impact other ongoing matters, including those that the Special Counsel has referred to other offices."

Rick Whitson, the Montgomery County Director of Emergency Management (also the District Fire Chief and Deputy Coroner) tells KGGF about a special, "free" event this evening in Independence. Storm Fury on the Plains is Monday, March 25th starting at 6:30 until about 8:30 at Memorial Hall on Pennslvania Ave. Meteorologists from the Wichita office of the National Weather Service will be presenting.

An "Advanced Training" is coming up on April 5th in the Main Auditorium at Independence Community College starting at 6:30pm. For questions, contact Rick at 620-330-7040 or email him at rwhitson@mgcountyks.org. 

Before talking with KGGF, Whitson addressed Montgomery County Commissioners Monday morning about the county's updated Emergency Operations Plan, and also about his success securing grant money from Independence and Coffeyville Walmarts for the purpose of purchasing two drones that Whitson says will tremendously increase efficiency in emergencies. Stay tuned to KGGF 690 AM for more details soon, and you can listen online by clicking "Listen Live" located on the Home page, to the right of the first local news story, or just CLICK HERE. 

A recent study shows that residents of Montgomery County are doing a good job of holding down their personal debt.  A study just released by SmartAsset shows that Montgomery County ranks 7^th in the state for having the lowest amount of debt compared to income.  The study shows that as of the 4^th Quarter in 2018, residents of Montgomery County had only 0.73% of their income in debts.  Neosho County led the state with the lowest income to debt ratio with only 0.60% of their income as debt.

A special event coming up April 9^th at the Coffeyville Public Library. Assistant Director Rachel Rose says Phil Lancaster will be putting on a musical performance and storytelling about Riders on the Orphan Train.

Rose says this is the second time Lancaster has put on this performance in Coffeyville. She says it's been a few years but they had a great turnout the first time around. The event starts at 6:00pm.

Independence Community College named a new head football coach on Monday. Coach Kiyoshi Harris says he's got over twenty years of coaching experience but it wasn't the first thing he wanted to do.

Harris says this will be his third season at ICC and his first as a head coach at the collegiate level.

The downtown clean-up scheduled for tomorrow in downtown Coffeyville has been postponed due to rain in the forecast for tomorrow morning.  The clean-up has been rescheduled for next Saturday, March 30.

The Parsons Police Department and Labette County Sheriff's Office entered into an agreement earlier this week in hopes of bettering the entire county. Parsons City Commission voted unanimously to support a "mutual aid agreement". Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks says there are four key points to the agreement that sets up how assistance is handled during a natural or man made disaster, and it codifies information sharing between the agencies, allowing cooperation for training. Now Parsons police are cross-deputized so they may work outside the city when needed. The mutual aid agreement is now in effect.

Jo Faulkner, the Coffeyville Coordinator for Gifts for the Nations, gives us an update on this week's load that went to Nebraska yesterday. Click here to listen to Jo on the KGGF airwaves.

They are still looking for coordinators for Independence and Cherryvale. Please continue to drop hygiene items, cleaning supplies, buckets, tarps, shovels and grab-and-go food. To help or get more info, call Jo at 620-251-2609.

Kansas lawmakers from both parties are coming together in Washington to push for a federal law they say would save lives. Republican congressman Ron Estes and democrat Sharice Davids re-introduced the Kelsey Smith Act Wednesday. It would allow law enforcement to get a person's cell phone location immediately if they think the person is in danger.

The Act is named after Kelsey Smith who was abducted and killed in Overland Park in 2007. Police found her body four days before they were legally able to ping her cell phone. U.S. Senator Pat Roberts introduced the bill to the Senate where it's been before but not passed. So far, 23 states have adopted the law, including Kansas and Missouri.

A judge denied a request to lower the bond for an Oklahoma woman accused of leaving her 17-yr-old autistic grandson, Guy, at a Kansas rest stop for 24 hours. Janie Gill appeared in court Thursday in Greenwood County, where she is charged with child endangerment and interference with law enforcement. In the weeks following, the boy received tremendous donations for Christmas.

Arrest documents recently revealed a neighbor told investigators she would lock her grandson inside a room overnight and during work hours. Deputies found a deadbolt locking device with a key on the outside of the door, restricting his movement to the bedroom and bathroom. In December, Janie said she's been raising Guy since his parents died from drug abuse, that he's severely disabled, and that since he's gotten bigger it has become a lot harder for her. She said she's asked for help but has not received any. The boy has the mental capacity of a 5-yr-old, according to investigators.

Janie had approximately 30 alias names she used in the past and has prior fraud convictions. Her bond remains at $40,000 with court appearance May 10^th. According to Sgt Wes Jones from the Rogers Co Sheriff's Office in December, Guy lives in a loving home and appears very happy.

A nonprofit organization and the Tulsa County Public Defender’s Office have partnered together on an app designed to help reduce failure-to-appear charges. Family & Children’s Services and the defender’s office are using the Uptrust app which allows two-way communication between the attorneys and their clients. According to the company, they are achieving a 95% court attendance rate across the U.S., which decreases incarceration rates and increases costs for county and state governments.

Tulsa County is getting positive results from using the app. Before, they used a program created by Code for Tulsa but it does not have a two-way messaging feature, so could text clients reminders. With Uptrust, the client can respond to the attorney about why he or she might not be able to make it to court. The nonprofit can also help the client with other issues, such as needing addiction recovery help. Check them out at www.uptrust.co. 

It’s time to burn! At this point in the year K-State extension agent Wendy Powell says its a common practice to burn your pastures to control weeds and other variables. She says there are a couple of factors you need to remember before burning. Powell suggests you review the weather and winds speeds on the days your burning, create durable fire stops and make sure you have enough people in board to contain your burn. Powell also suggests if you have neighbors to coordinate a day where you can do one large burn instead of several, provide enough water, and use the correct equipment. Powell says burning your pasture is one of the easiest and economical ways to control weeds and other variables throughout your pastures and hopes you'll be burning responsibly throughout the spring.

The Coffeyville Community College Red Ravens have advanced to the semifinals of the NJCAA Tournament. If you would like to attend the game tomorrow their will be a bus that will leave from the Nellis Hall parking lot and will load at 12:45 and leave at 1:00pm. It is $25 per person for the bus plus each fan is responsible for their own ticket and food. There are 27 spots available. Reservations need to be made and you can do so by contacting Jana Kastler at (620)252-7360.  If the Ravens advance to the Championship game a bus will leave on Saturday at 9:00am.

If you can't make it to the game you can always listen on 98.1 KUSN.

A con artist takes aim at registered offenders in Montgomery County.  The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office says someone has been calling the offenders and telling they are not in compliance with the terms of their registration. The scammer, claiming to be a deputy, goes on to claim that the mark must send money immediately to cover fines and bond.  The sheriff’s office says deputies would never make contact by phone and they do not take money. Residents are reminded not to respond to such requests and to hang up without providing any personal information. 

Investigators are working to identify the imposter. If you’ve fallen victim to the scam, you are urged to file a report with the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.  

Making it easier to help.  To expedite emergency relief and restoration efforts associated with recent flooding in Kansas and neighboring states, Kansas Governor Laura Kelly issues an executive order temporarily exempting commercial motor carriers and operators from parts of the Federal Motor Carriers Safety Regulations while traveling in Kansas and participating in disaster operations.  The regulation exemptions include licensing, certification and permitting; fuel tax permits, and other rules that will allow motor carriers to more quickly bring in necessary supplies and equipment to aid in relief efforts.  Heavy rains and spring snow melts are causing moderate flood conditions along the Missouri River in several states, including Kansas, and is expected to increase to major flooding in the next few days. Doniphan, Marshall and Jefferson Counties have issued local disaster declarations. 

In other news from under the dome, Mrs. Kelly applauds the passage of Medicaid Expasion by the Kansas House.  The plan will allow up to 150,000 more Kansans access to affordable healthcare, and support local hospitals and clinics. The Kansas Senate is the next stop for the bill.

Theatre fans get ready.  Independence Community College’s next theater production will be the musical [Title of Show], scheduled Friday and Saturday, March 29 and 30, at 7 p.m., and Sunday, March 31, at 2 p.m. in the William Inge Theater.  Directed by Dr. Page Petrucka, the unusually titled production is based on the book by Hunter Bell.  A production hit Broadway at the Lyceum Theatre in 2008.  ICC’s production is the “clean version” of the more edgy original. The show stars Austin Hancock in the role of Hunter. Katelynn “Rosie” Rosenberg stars as Susan; Tyler Ridgeway, ICC plays the part of Jeff; and McKenzie Clay portraysHeidi. Karen Knox serves as music director for the show and also plays the role of Mary.

General admission tickets for the performance are $7. Admission for students, seniors and military personnel are $5.

May the 4^th be with you as you place your bids at Coffeyville Community College's Scholarship Auction. Organizer Sally Presson says there are some new additions this year.

Presson says they try to limit the live auction to 50 items, so the gold table will be silent auction items that are a little more special and can be bid on throughout the night.

Coffeyville is Reawakening indeed with a new discount grocery store, right in the heart of Downtown. John and Sherrie Nichols, who own the Nichols Trading Post in Parsons, are opening up the Nichols Hitching Post in Coffeyville. Owner John Nichols says it will be very similar to the store in Parsons. He and  have purchased the old Columbia Building and hope to have the store opened by April 1st but it might be closer to middle of the month. 

All produce is locally grown, specifically from Amish farmers, and nothing shipped in from other sources. It's all washed, cleaned, sorted and graded daily for quality and freshness, and they actually guarantee it. People are buzzing about it on their Facebook page, Nichol's Trading Post, which will be the same page for Nichol's Hitching Post to keep things simple for everyone.

John is the leader of the Southeast Kansas Produce Auction in Dennis, Kansas which is twice a week - every Monday and Friday at 1:00pm - starting April 5 thru end of October with locally grown Amish produce, flowers, garden plants, and bushes. At the Parsons store, they have a monthly "clean up" auction on the last Saturday, starts at 4:00pm. John said they are looking for a location in Coffeyville to hold auctions as well. It needs to be a space with an open floor plan, and ideally a space for a warehouse and big garage doors for deliveries. If you have any ideas or questions, contact John at 620-429-0331.

 The Nowata County Commissioners accepted the resignation of former Sheriff Terry Sue Barnett at an emergency meeting yesterday morning. Mirta "Mickey" Hallett was appointed as interim Sheriff. Hallat says she already has plans in place for new officers.

Hallett says her plan is to update the jail but there is no timetable for the return of inmates. Hallett has nearly 30 years’ experience in law enforcement including several years as the Nowata County jail administrator. She is married to former Nowata County sheriff James Hallett as well.  

National Service Recognition Day fastly approaches! Independence Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson says till April 1st you can give back to Veterans as Four County is doing something very special in honor of the ones who served. As National Service Recognition Day approaches, RSVP Four County will be collecting items that will directly benefit the Kansas VA Hospital. Such as soaps and shampoos, T-shirts, caps and other easy items that you could pick up at the store while you shop for yourself.  Wilson explains that this day is a day to recognize everyone who has served. By recognizing and donating back to those who have created such a difference and impact. You can donate up until the 1st of April and don’t forget National Service Recognition Day on April 2nd. Wilson says  there are drop boxes throughout Independence including the Main Street Office at 109 east Main, the Chamber Building on North Penn. or at Four County 3751 West Main.

The free community garden plots with 9^th Street Fresh are ready for planting, even earlier than expected, but right on time for the first day of Spring! Ron Olson, the owner, tells us about what Jeff Graham Construction did to help make it happen and more.

Ron said a teacher from the Early Learning Center has at least one plot for students. Teachers and principles are encouraged to reserve theirs, too, for student service learning projects. With only three spaces left, you better hurry. Call “Captain Asparagus” at 918-330-0413.

March 21 will include another free event at Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters. This one is for budding entrepreneurs and small business owners. MCAC's Trisha Purdon gives us details, including how the seminar will benefit them. And something unique about this one - a “building tours” follows where everyone gets the opportunity to see all the available spaces in Downtown Coffeyville. Click here to hear about it on the airwaves.

It's free from 9 to 11 at 115 W. 9^th in Downtown – that's the new office for Coffeyville's Rewawakening, and a light breakfast will be provided by Sunflower Soda Fountain. Sponsors are Coffeyville's Reawakening, Montgomery County Action Council, and Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce. Be sure to like Coffeyville's Reawakening Facebook page to keep on top of all the buzz.

Senator Goddard mentioned last week during our interview Senate Bill 142 getting through the Senate aimed to supplement the states education funding under Governor Kelly's plan. Representative Jim Kelly says the house will review this bill this week and explains the process.  Kelly says the house may come up with their own plan to either add, or compromise the one Senate approved. Kelly says sometime this week the house should review this bill, though mentions he doesn't see a resolution anytime soon within the next couple weeks. It may be reviewed and changed by the House, it may be denied by governor Kelly, and ultimately even if both those steps go smoothly, it could be denied by that supreme court thus restarting the process. Representative Jim Kelly mentioned Governor Kelly has a strong game plan for education and this should meet her expectations though this will be an interesting bill to follow.

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Birdie Jo and Becky Hoaks have a long history of crime across the U.S. The latest sentencing comes in southeast Kansas.  On Tuesday, a Neosho County judge ordered Birdie Jo Hoaks to eight months in prison for conspiracy to commit theft.   Birdie Jo was convicted of forgery, theft and interference with a law enforcement officer in The sisters were arrested in 2016 for using bad checks to buy hundreds of dollars worth of stamps from post offices in Chanute, Cherryvale, Coffeyville, Neodesha, and Thayer.  Similar charges against Becky Hoaks were dismissed. She is serving a sentence for similar crimes in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections. 

The long list of schemes, ran by the Hoaks sisters, span back to the 1980s. 

At this morning's court hearing about the closing of Nowata County Jail and the resignation of Sheriff Barnett, a debate ensued between Judge Gibson and Barnett's attorney Paul Demuro of Tulsa who told him, “This is an old-fashioned ambush and we got no notice that you were going to call and cross examine to your agenda your personal grievances with Ms. Barnett to put these witnesses on the stand. Rogers County Sheriff Scott Walton shares his impression. Attorney DeMuro initially declined comment but returned to speak with the press. 

Before convening, Judge Gibson said, “The only reason I am here today is because I have lost my ability to supervise...and ensure the safety of this community.” “Supervise what?” asked DeMuro. Gibson urged him to read the exhibit handed to DeMuro just before the hearing started, and after a quick look responded, “I am not arguing with the court's concern of a particular defendant not needing to be 'OR-ed' but that needs to take place in the criminal proceeding, not whatever this proceeding is.”

DeMuro referred to the judge's introduction which led people to believe the hearing was about the budget and returning the inmates. Shortly after the judge convened. One anonymous county resident shared with KGGF that "many people" have talked about the "misuse of funds" and encourages the media to look into the financials. An emergency meeting of the Nowata County Commissioners is expected by Wednesday where Barnett's resignation will be officially accepted. 

(Photo Courtesy of Max Gross of Bartlesville Radio)

Coffeyville Friends of Animals is throwing a Karaoke night here in Coffeyville! An event steered to benefit the Shelter as Becky Barnhart with C.F.A says you won't want to miss it. Karaoke with Pat Robinson, drinks and great food as she says it will be coming up on April 5th. It will go from 7 to 9 PM and will take place at the Yoke Bar and grill in Downtown Coffeyville. There is a 5 dollar cover charge that will directly benefit the shelter as Becky Barnhart with Coffeyville Friends of Animals wanted to thank everyone who has donated to the shelter in the past. When we spoke with her last week she mentioned that they have an abundance of cats in the shelter, and could use a little help. Dog food and toys, as well as cat food and litter. She also wanted to make a note if you are donating for the cats to not forget about Kitty Chow! As the kitties need different food than adult cats and sometimes get forgotten about. Don’t miss out on Karaoke Night coming on Friday April 5th, and even if Karaoke isn't your speed come out and support the shelter, Barnhart says they do plan on bringing some cats along for guaranteed entertainment.

Nowata County Sheriff Terry Sue Barnett announced her resignation, along with all Nowata County law enforcement officers effective as of 11 a.m. on Monday. Judge Carl Gibson allegedly ordered Barnett to return prisoners to the jail by 9 a.m. Friday morning or be held in contempt of court. Barnett says the current conditions of the jail are uninhabitable. She had been vocal about concerns with the jail in previous weeks even prior to the carbon monoxide leak that forced the evacuation of the jail on Feb. 28.

Barnett was informed that Judge Gibson won’t accept her resignation. Barnett says she doesn’t answer to the judge.

Barnett says that she had a conversation with Gibson last week to discuss options with the jail. Barnett recounted that conversation during a press conference Monday afternoon.

Barnett says it was clear that Gibson attempted to bribe her. She stated that Gibson would not stop her from doing the right thing.

Barnett says she was blindsided by the move. Gibson stated at last week’s county commissioners meeting that the jail needs to be held to a higher standard and he supports Barnett’s efforts.

While most members of the sheriff’s staff have or will attempt to resign a dispatcher does remain on staff. Barnett says when Nowata County residents are in need of law enforcement they can rely on other entities for help.

Rogers County sheriff Scott Walton stated that he would not be responding to any calls in Nowata County. A hearing will be conducted at 9 a.m. at the Nowata County Courthouse on Tuesday involving all parties.

 A request for comment was denied by Judge Gibson.

The Nowata County Sheriff and virtually all the sheriff department’s employees has resigned.  Sheriff Terry Sue Barnett, the Undersheriff and all the department’s deputies have resigned over conditions at the Nowata County Jail.  The resignations come after Judge Carl Gibson ordered Barnett to return prisoners to the jail after a carbon monoxide leak that has not been repaired.

A press conference is being held at this hour KGGF will have more as the story unfolds.

Over 25 people attended the kick off for the 9th street community garden, one of Coffeyville’s Reawakening-Neighborhood Revitalization projects. Terry Vernon has been named “Captain Asparagus” and is the person in charge of day to day operations. Out of the 20 free garden plots, only a few are left to reserve.

Jeff Graham Construction will be tilling the soil this week. TLC Landscaping is building a large center pathway through the garden. Barron Properties is donating water, electricity, and land. Donations are taking care of materials. Anyone who wants to grow a garden of organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers may have one at no charge, as long as plots are available.

Anyone interested may Facebook message Peggy Olinger Steele-Olson or call Terry the project manager at 918-330-0413.

A Coffeyville's Reawakening clean-up project is this Saturday from 10am to noon, and volunteers are needed to assist in sprucing up Downtown. All community minded individuals, groups, and organizations are encouraged to sign up. Trash bags, glove and grabbers will be provided. People can take brooms, dustpans, rakes, shovels, and leaf blowers.

Contact the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce at 620-251-2550 or email Candi Westbrook at cwestbrook@coffeyville.com. Volunteers will meet at the Chamber offices at 807 Walnut. Lunch will be provided for volunteers. Keep in mind there will be multiple clean up projects, so let them know if you are interested in being on their notification list for future projects.

Gifts for the Nations mission for the Nebraska flood victims is growing since Saturday's first announcement. They are looking for an Independence Coordinator and a Cherryvale Coordinator to help gather supplies for the thousands of hungry, homeless, and freezing people and animals. The Tyro Coordinator is Dave Bycroft, and the Coffeyville Coordinator is Jo Faulkner who tells us more. 

The first shipment has been extended to Thursday instead of Tuesday. Coordinator Faulkner encourages everyone to continue dropping supplies after this first “Necessity Drive” going out Thursday because there will be one to two shipments going out every week for 3 to 4 weeks through April. The churches involved that are open after 6pm to take supplies are Tyro Christian, First Southern Baptist, and St. Paul's Lutheran (the latter two in Coffeyville). Utopia Cafe is also a drop-off point, and they are generally open until 3pm Tues-Fri. For more information, call Jo Faulkner at 620-251-2609.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners meets this morning.  One task before the commission will be canvassing the ballots from elections in Cherryvale and Caney last week. It is expected the panel will affirm the passage of Caney’s tax increase to finance pool improvements and Cherryvale’s measures for capital improvements and recreational amenities.  They will consider a rezoning request for USD 446- Independence Public Schools.  There will be discussion of the sale of county-owned property in Coffeyville. 

The meeting gets underway in the Montgomery County Judicial Center At 9 am. 

Coffeyville residents have until the end of the month to sign up for the Average Monthly Payment Plan. The program allows utility payments, based on the current month’s bill averaged with the previous 11 months, to help minimize seasonal spikes in bills. Customers must have a 12-month billing history at their current address to register.

Enrollment forms on AMP can be found on the city’s website or call 620-252-6100 and speak with customer service.  

Dave Bycroft, who was a pastor in Tryo for 45 years, is a volunteer for Gifts for the Nations. They need a church or other location in Coffeyville or Independence where they can store toiletries, hygiene items, and mattresses for Nebraska flood victims. Pastor Bycroft tells us over KGGF airwaves about the catastrophe and what is needed for this mission. Over 16 towns have been affected, and over 1,000 people evacuated due to the floods from all the recent snow, ice, and rain accumulating all the way from Wisconsin, creating a barge-effect on the Platte River.

Does anyone in Coffeyville or Independence areas have a space for one day? They head out of Mound Valley Tuesday morning for Nebraska. Call Debbie Cramer with Gifts for the Nations at 620-313-0386. Or call Dave at 620-252-5767.

Sunday, March 17th (St. Patrick's Day) there is a scheduled photo shoot for 9th Street Fresh community garden members, media, and anyone interested in signing up for a free garden plot or would like to get involved. Peggy Steele, a leader of this Coffeyville's Reawakening project, tells us more on KGGF airwaves (click to listen).

All are welcome to come learn more about Coffeyville's first community garden. It's not just about providing a space for families to plant fresh, organic vegetables, fruits, herbs, and flowers, but as a place to create comaraderie and connection within the community. Teachers and principles who would like to know more about making this a student service learning project, please come or call for more information. They are also looking for a sponsor to provide fencing supplies. Call Terry Vernon, the project manager, at 918-330-0413

The photo shoot event is Sunday, Mar. 17th, 3pm at 1205 W. 9th St. 

People all over the world are celebrating St. Patrick's Day. Why? How is a saint connected with shamrocks, leprechauns, green beer, and pinching people who forget to wear green? According to legend, St. Patrick chased snakes into the sea after they began attacking him during a 40-day fast on top of a hill. But St. Patrick was not Irish. He was British, and no church has ever officially named him a saint.

The true story begins in the 4^th century when Patrick was born, about the same time Christianity became the official religion of the Roman Empire. His dad was a deacon, granddad a pastor, but Patrick had no interest in Christianity – not until he was 16 years old when his life suddenly changed when Irish pirates were raiding along the western coast of Britain. They took him prisoner, and he ended up a slave on a sheep ranch in Ireland. His slave master was a Druid priest in a clan.

After six years of slavery, Patrick had a dream of escaping, and he did. He fled to Britain and became a monk, but 20 years later God called him to go back to proclaim the gospel to his former captors. He spoke first to the Cheiftans of each Druidic clan, and one of the first people to embrace the message of Jesus was Milchu, who was once Patrick's slave master for six years. According to tradition, Patrick used the 3-leaf Shamrock to explain the Trinity because they saw it as a sacred symbol. Just as the Shamrock is one single clover with three leaves, God is one god composed of the Father, the Son Jesus, and the Holy Spirit.

Patrick died on March 17^th in the year 493.  He was not never officially named a saint, but he was a simple servant of Jesus Christ who shared God's love with Ireland and the very people who had once enslaved him. Guided by the mission, he planted churches and became known as the “Apostle of Ireland.”

This is an update on the Montgomery County Sheriff Robert Dierks case. According to an affidavit released Thursday (Mar. 14), Dierks tried unsuccessfully to interfere in the drunken driving arrest of his girlfriend. The charging documents reveals that Sheriff Dierks told a special agent of the KBI that she broke up with him because she “ruined her life by not helping her out of the DUI.

Deputy Ian Hurst pulled over the woman in Jan. 2018 in a rural area. Deputy Hurst said she refused a field sobriety test and told him to call “Bobby” because she was his girlfriend. She called him herself and handed the phone to Hurst who explained to Dierks that her erratic driving was reported by someone who saw her almost hit something. Dierks was on his way to pick her up, but Hurst took her to jail before he got there. Dierks was surprised at Hurst who responded, “Sir, to be honest, if the roles were reversed, I would not be asking you to do this.”

Earlier this week, Dierks made a statement to KGGF that he has nothing to hide and is why he broke the story to Montgomery County Chronicle in Feb. Dierks was charged with two misdemeanors including inteference with a law enforcement officer and witness intimidation. KGGF will continue to keep you posted.

Beginning April 1st, Coffeyville residents will need to budget a little more for trash service. There will be a 25-cent increase. The change comes with a new contract signed between city hall and Republic Services. The trash rate will be $13.25 that includes a polycart and monthly bulky pick-up. Additional 

polycarts will cost $7.14.  For seniors, the rate is $12.25 per month which includes a polycart and a monthly bulky pick up.  To qualify for the senior rate, the head of the household must be at least 62 and no other occupants can be under age 62 except a spouse.  An application for the senior rate is available in the Customer Service Office and on the city’s website.

Trash routes will remain the same as well as the bulky pick up days.  Details about the city’s trash service, including bulky pick-up, senior rate form and a route map, can be found by clicking here.   

Judge Jeffry Jack gets the stamp from Governor Laura Kelly to fill a vacancy on the  Kansas Court of Appeals.  The retirement of Judge Patrick McAnany created the opening.  Judge Jack has been a district judge in Labette County in the Eleventh Judicial District since 2005. The governor says Jack has led a distinguished legal career, as a lawyer, a legislator, and a judge. He is a fifth-generation resident of Labette County and was raised in Altamont. After graduating cum laude from Harvard University in 1983, Jack attended the University of Kansas School of Law. He began his legal career in Parsons with Dearth & Markham, Chartered, and continued in private practice until 2005. 

Judge Jack’s nomination is subject to Senate confirmation and his nomination materials have been forwarded to the Kansas Senate. 

Every Saturday The Essential Stop in Coffeyville has free classes and $5 “Make and Take” classes. On Saturday, Mar. 16 they are making Copaiba cheese balls at 10am. It is free. Usually "Make & Take" is after the 10am class, but this is the main, free class. Kimber Adkins from The Essential Stop tells us about the class and benefits of using the essential oil, Copaiba. 

For more information go online to their Facebook page, The Essential Stop.

Joe Brooks was in the KGGF recording studio today. The Coffeyville community loves Joe. He's the Montgomery County Coordinator at the Salvation Army and pastor of Living Life Tabernacle Church. Here is our beloved Joe Brooks with his brand new song “Coffeyville, She's Coming Alive”, dedicated to all his friends and family.  Joe said his song is to bless Coffeyville. Thank you, Joe, and bless you! 

To hear Joe's song, click on the link in the article.

A proposal in the Kansas Legislature would lower the state sales tax rate on food from 6.5 percent to 5.5 percent. But even if the proposed 5.5 percent food tax becomes law, Kansas would still have one of the highest tax rates on food in the United States.

For all the talk among lawmakers about taking a "bite" out of the cost of groceries, the plan closest to passing amounts could amount to just a "nibble". The savings for many families could be less than $100, or $1.92-per-week saved with one percent decrease on food sales tax.

The proposed legislation is Senate Bill 22, what people are saying is a large, highly controversial measure that makes numerous changes to the state's tax code. The House approved the bill last week, and the Senate could vote aytime to send it to Gov. Laura Kelly.

Parts of Kansas experienced a big gasoline price increase in the first week of March – a rise from $2.13 to $2.39 a gallon.  Shawn Steward with Triple A Kansas says the state average was $2.26 a gallon the day before the increase. He said they've seen several trends driving the price up over the past few weeks.

Gasoline stocks have gradually been decreasing, while demand for gas increases as more people get out on the roads to enjoy the warmer weather, especially for Spring Break. Steward says once the stocks for winter blend deplete, refineries will switch to summer blend production which costs more, so it's likely prices will continue upward in the medium term.

There could be a looming threat of stem rust to wheat farmers in Kansas, according to Erick DeWolf who is the Kansas State University Extension plant pathologist and professor of plant pathology. Stem rust is a disease that historically caused major yield losses in the Great Plains, but has been genetically controlled for decades.

The last major outbreak was in the 1980's, but this base of genetic resistance has eroded in recent years, he said. Currently, western Kansas has more than 30 percent of its acres planted to stem rust susceptible varieties, and the more acres planted, the more vulnerable the crops are to an outbreak. The spotlight is on western Kansas because of the large number of acres planted to susceptible varieties, but DeWolf is also concerned about central Kansas. The problem is increasing in Colorado, Oklahoma, and Texas, and other parts of the world.

This disease of wheat often survives the winters in parts of Texas and Mexico, and then storm systems move them north. DeWolf says to avoid planting the highly susceptible varieties, and if already planted, a fungicide treatment could help reduce the yield losses, but the timing of fungicide application is later than for many other diseases of wheat. For more information, refer to the K-State's Wheat Variety Disease and Insect Ratings Guide and go online to the Kansas Wheat Alliance website at kswheatalliance.org.

In February, Kansas Judge Michael Gibbens came under fire in national news for claiming that two girls, ages 13 and 14, acted as “aggressors” when 67-year-old Eugene Soden paid them to have sex. Judge Gibbens questioned how the girls could be uncomfortable or traumatized when they voluntarily had sex and accepted money for it. What makes them an aggressor? Accepting money? Taking their clothes off “voluntarily” because someone behind the scenes is threatening them? According to leaders from Combatting Human Trafficking and Shared Hope International, since 2014, more than 79 Kansas minors were criminalized for offenses related to child sex trafficking.

In response to Judge Gibbens', Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt proposed a new law to prevent judges from reducing sentences for adult sex offenders when the child is labeled “aggressor”. Kansas lawmakers rejected the bill. Well, just over one year ago, Feb. 1, 2018 – a bill was passed by Kansas Senator Mike Peterson. SR 1764 reads the bill is for “Opposing human trafficking and urging a dismantling of human trafficking networks.” Does the case 67-year-old Eugen Soden apply here? What is the right thing to do?

The investigation into a number of arson cases continues around Independence. Police Chief Jerry Harrison says it is unclear if the fires are connected. The string of fires started in December when someone broke into a downtown business on East Chestnut and set a fire. The other four cases involved abandoned homes. Several fires were set in a house  on North 17th. On January 10th, police discovered a fire on North 9th.  Investigators  believe that blaze followed criminal activity. A fire was reported February 24th at an address on West Chestnut. And, on March 10th, another fire was reported on West Cottonwood. 

The Kansas State Fire Marshal is assisting on the probe. Chief Harrison asks anyone who may have information or surveillance video to call the Independence Police Department. 

People are getting excited about Coffeyville's 150^th Anniversary birthday party coming June 1^st and the City is preparing. Commissioners discussed a potential resolution Tuesday evening that would allow a beer and wine garden City Clerk Cindy Price explains.

Commissioners unanimously approved, and noted they did not receive any complaints about having the beer garden. Now that the organization's committee got the City's approval, they are now applying for a state permit to serve alcohol at the June 1^st party in Downtown Coffeyville. It's an all-day party, but the beer and wine garden will open in the evening after dinner and birthday cake is served.

Coffeyville's Reawakening, with it's new downtown headquarters, is hosting a financing event for business owners on Mar. 20. Their Communications Manager Lisa Kuehn tells us more. 

It's a free lunch & learn seminar with Montgomergy County Action Council, sponsored by Coffeyville's Reawakening, The Lunch & Learn is next Wed. Mar. 20 from 12-1 at Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters, 115 W. 9^th St. in Downtown. Go to their Facebook page – Coffeyville's Reawakening – for more information or contact Lisa at 620-515-1368.

Royalty is arriving to Independence, Kansas. Miss Kansas, Hannah Klaassen, will be speaking this week Friday at Jefferson Elementary at 10 and 11am, and then at the high school at 2:30. On Saturday, the public is invited to “Tea with Royalty” at the Historical Museum.

If you'd like to have tea with Miss Kansas, it's only 5 bucks. There are 112 seats left. Tickets are available at the Community National Bank in Independence, 125 N. Pennsylvania Ave. The bank's phone is 620-331-3100.

Playwright Kara Lee Corthron has been selected as the recipient of the 2019 William Inge Theatre Festival’s “Otis L. Guernsey New Voices in the American Theatre Award,” which recognizes substantial early contributions to the contemporary American stage. Corthron, a New York City-based playwright, author of young adult novels and writer for television, will be presented with the award at the 38th annual Inge festival, May 22-25, at Independence Community College in Independence, Kansas. Corthron's new play What Are You Worth? will be presented as a reading during the festival, directed by Kansas City Repertory Theatre’s Chip Miller. The 2019 event will also feature numerous performances and workshops, including the New Play Lab, in which emerging playwrights from across the nation will have a professional public reading of a script. For more information and festival tickets, visit www.ingecenter.org. Or call 620-332-5492 for more information.

March is Women’s History Month. Every week, U.S. Congressman Ron Estes of Kansas highlights on his Facebook page a Kansas woman in history who has made a difference. On Friday, Mar. 8, Estes recognized Hattie McDaniel who was born in Wichita, Kansas. She became the first African American to win an Oscar for her role in “Gone with the Wind” and became the first black actor to star in an American radio program. McDaniel’s career in radio and film, as well as her historic court battle to end segregation in 1940s Los Angeles, "broke through racial barriers and helped pave the way for future generations of women, African Americans and Kansans."

Both Cherryvale's and Caney's sales tax passed last evening's vote. Cherryvales's City Clerk, Karen Davis, shares more with us. The first yes-no question was on "capital improvements" (infrastructure) which passed 88 to 35, and the other question was on "recreational amenities" which passed 89 to 35. 

Caney's tax modification passed by a whopping 250 to 22. City Adminstrator, Fred Gress, expresses how it impacts the city. Gress said new 1% tax will be split between annual street improvements and the pool. This vote now allows Caney to move forward with the grant application to fund the new pool. They will know around July 1^st if they will receive it.

Education in Kansas. Seemingly the top of the agenda board for our state legislators is funding for our states education. Republican Senator Dan Goddard explains this week, they hope to pass a bill to help with that. Senate Bill #142 is a bill to aimed to supplement current state education funding. Something our legislative leaders are looking at and hope to pass this week as Senator Goddard explains he believes he expects both parties to agree on.  Goddards overview of the bill is a base state aid increase per student for the upcoming school years. Increasing it from 4,302 dollars per student to 4,436. Totalling an increase of about 90 million dollars in aid to schools in an attempt to satisfy the supreme court in school funding. Goddard says that both parties want proper school funding they just have different ideas on getting there. He says this supplement should be enough to satisfy both sides of the debate as it is a top priority in Governor Kelly's gameplan.

A couple of sightings of raccoons exhibiting bizarre behavior lead to a public notice from Sedan Police Chief Kirk Richardson.  The notice asks residents to call police dispatch if they notice any odd activity in other raccoons. Chief Richardson says the two animals they located were destroyed. He says it is possible the raccoons had Canine Distemper. However, he notes the symptoms can be very similar rabies. An effort is underway to obtain a viable brain sample to confirm a diagnosis.  

Dog and cat owners are encouraged to make sure their pets are up to date on vaccinations.  Both illnesses can be spread across species.  

An unexpected visit leads to a generous gift to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office. Sheriff David Groves says the couple, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed an interest in doing something to support law enforcement and help prevent their grandchildren from being exposed to illegal drugs. Their desire was that their monetary gift would be used to purchase a Patrol K-9.  In the following weeks, Sheriff Groves introduced North American Police Work Dog Association Master Trainer Travis Walthall to Cherokee County Deputy Taylor Ludwig, who had been designated as the new K-9 Handler. 

K-9 Deputy Bear, a one-year-old German Sheppard, is certified in narcotic detection and has been on the job since last Friday.

Patients have a new option for breast cancer screening. Coffeyville Regional Medical Center now offers Genius 3D Mammography. Developed by Hologic, Inc., Genius exams are clinically proven to significantly increase the detection of breast cancers, and decreasing the number of women asked to return for additional testing. CRMC CEO Lori Rexwinkle says in addition to the new exam, the hospital has added a Breast Health Nurse Navigator, Christy McCullough, RN, to guide patients with abnormal mammograms.

CRMC is the first in the region to offer the new technology and nurse navigator. 

Three Wilson County residents are dead as the result of a head-on collision on Highway 75 north of Caney this morning.  Killed were 85 year old Patricia Chalfant of Neodesha, 82 year old Wilma Rowden of Neodesha and 85 year old Mary Compton of Fredonia.  A fourth person, 32 year old Casey Andrews of Tulsa was transported to St. John’s Hospital in Tulsa with serious injuries.

The accident occurred at about 8:30 this morning on Highway 75 just north of the 166 junction.  The Kansas Highway Patrol says the Andrews vehicle was traveling north when it crossed the center line.  The vehicle with the three Kansas women was traveling south and made an evasive maneuver onto the left shoulder when the two vehicles hit head-on.

All 3 fatality victims were pronounced dead at the scene.  Highway 75 at the 166 junction was closed for several hours following the accident but re-opened early this afternoon.

The Kansas Highway Patrol is still investigating a two vehicle crash this morning that claimed the lives of three people on Highway 75 north of Caney this morning.  That accident shut down Highway 75 just north of the 166 junction most of the morning but the highway is fully opened this afternoon.

Three people were pronounced dead at the scene and a fourth person was transported to an Oklahoma hospital.  No details of the accident nor the names of the victi.ms have been released yet.

Recycling and reuse was a hot topic with Montgomery county commissioners Monday morning. Environmental Health-Zoning Administrator Scott Barnhart explains what Independence has done to make a difference.

The landfill is currently at a 10-year capacity, and Barnhart said “we should take a hard look at it” as he asked commissioners to approve an upgrade to the plan. Commissioners approved an upgrade to the plan for the county to not only make solid waste reduction efforts but to find another location for a landfill.

Do you have questions or comments about Coffeyville? City Manager Mark Hall urges the public to drop in to the regular city commission meeting tonight.

The agenda includes the approval of an ordinance to sell alcohol at the 150^th Anniversary birthday party on June 1^st, city employee health insurance, and they always welcome public comments. For location and time, listen to the link above to hear Mark Hall's invitation.

Are you interested in starting a new business in Coffeyville? Or expanding? Don't miss out on this opportunity to hear about financing options from Tricia Purdon of Montgomery County Action Council (MCAC) and tour some of the available buildings in Downtown Coffeyville. The event is called Small Business Start Ups Financing & Downtown Building Tours. Lisa Kuehn, the marketing and communications manager of Coffeyville's Reawakening tells us more. 

The event is Thur, Mar. 21 from 9-11am at the new headquarters for Coffeyville's Reawakening at 115 W. 9^th St. in Coffeyville. RSVP to Tricia Purdon by emailing her at tpurdon@actioncouncil.com. The event is free for everyone.

Coffeyville's Reawakening now has an office in Downtown. It's headquarters is located at 115 W. 9^th St. The purpose of Coffeyville's Rewakening is to “reawaken the residents of Coffeyville and the surrounding area to the marvels and great potential of our community.” The leaders say that by revitalizing downtown, restoring the Midland, and resurrecting and rebuilding the neighborhoods, the intention is to show the entire community that it has a lot to be proud of and does have a bright future. The Coffeyville Reawakening logo will be on their windows very soon, but you can see it on their new Facebook page here. 

Special Assistant County Attorney Todd Hiatt, the prosecutor in the case against Montgomery County Sheriff Bobby Dierks, called KGGF radio in response to Monday's update. He asked that we clarify to the public that he "has not yet presented evidence" against Dierks, but he does believe he has enough for a 3-day trial.

Prosecutor Hiatt welcomed KGGF to contact him and said he is happy to make himself available in the future for comment. Due to legalities, he is not able to comment on the case until further motions are filed, such as "motion to suppress evidence" or a motion to make further statements. In the meantime, Hiatt provided process and procedure to KGGF's Kim Avery, such as how to obtain the probable cause affidavit as well as copies of his own and Defense Attorney Battatori's public responses that were necessary to obtain an affidavit, and how to get a copy of the defendant objections.

It was explained that according to statute KSA 22-2302 - available online at Kansas Office of Revisor of Statutes or www.ksrevisor.org - due to a change in the law, probable cause affidavits are now easier for the public to access. For questions, contact the County District Clerk at 620-330-1070. Interestingly, Prosecutor Hiatt pointed out, "There are not a lot of charges and cases against a sheriff." Therefore, he said he does not know how the case will go. Stay tuned with KGGF 690 AM for updates.

A fatality traffic accident occurred at about 8:30 this morning on US Highway 75 just north of the Highway 166 junction.  The collision involved two vehicles and 4 individuals, 3 of whom have been pronounced dead at the scene.  The fourth individual has been transported to a hospital in Oklahoma for treatment. 

The Kansas Highway Patrol along with. Assistance of the KHP’s Critical Highway Accident Response Team is investigating the crash.  US 75 is open for traffic.  However, KDOT has closed all but one shoulder for thru traffic.  As a result, motorists traveling in the area should expect delays as the on-scene investigation continues.

Highway 75, just north of the Hwy. 166 junction is closed. The Kansas Highway Patrol is working the scene of a multiple vehicle accident with multiple fatalities. More information will be on KGGF 690am and kggfradio.com as it becomes available.

The City of Coffeyville will give a State of the City Report report later this month.  The report will be presented March 27^th at 6 in the evening at the Spencer Rounds Theater on the campus of Coffeyville Community College.  City Commissioners will present a 2018 year in review and a look ahead at 2019.  This is an open meeting hosted by the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce, and the public is invited to attend.

Montgomery County Sheriff Robert Dierks gave an exclusive statement to KGGF's Kim Avery following the Mar. 11 County Commission meeting about the two charges currently against him.

Sheriff Dierks says he came forward with the story, first to the Montgomery County Chronicle, so citizens would hear from him first. Dierks has been accused of attempting to interfere with an investigation on an individual last year in 2018, including interference with a law enforcement officer and also witness intimidation. While special prosecutor Hiatt believes he has enough evidence to prove his guilt, Dierks' defense attorney Battotori plead not guilty at the first court summons last week, Mar. 6 in Independence. The Sheriff's office is not allowed to contact anyone not employed who is involved in the case. The pre-trial is set for June 12^th. Stay tuned to KGGF with more updates.

The Coffeyville Community College Red Ravens Men’s Basketball team has made the pool of schools to make it to the NJCAA National Basketball Tournament.  The Red Ravens received one of 8 at-large bids to the tournament as the #4 seed.  The Red Ravens will receive a bye in the first round of the tournament and open play with a game Wednesday, March 20 against the winner of the Sheridan, Wyoming vs., Kaskaskia, Ill. in Hutchinson.  That game, as well as all Raven games in the National Tournament will be broadcast live on KUSN 98.1FM.  

The Red Ravens finished the season at 29 – 3 before losing I 94 – 89 in a double overtime game to Hutchinson last week in the semi-finals of the Region 6 Tournament.

The death of a 3 month old infant in Coffeyville Sunday is under investigation.   Coffeyville Police responded to the Village Apartments in the 700 block of East 3^rd Street at 3:30 Sunday afternoon for an unresponsive infant.  The infant was transported by EMS to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center where he was pronounced deceased.

The Coffeyville Police Department is working with the Montgomery County Medical Examiner to determine the cause of death.  Anyone with any information is asked to call Detective Sergeant Lucas Vargas at 620-252-6010.  Those who wish to remain anonymous may provide information at the Crime Tip Hotline at 620-252-6133

Two of Coffeyville’s finest make the grade. The Coffeyville Police Department has two new graduates of the Kansas Law Enforcement Training Center. Patrolman Dylan Shelton and Patrolman Terrance Gaston received their diplomas on Friday.  

Shelton received the "Top Shot" (best in firearms) Award.   

Daylight Savings Time returns this morning. Officially taking effect at at 2:00 a.m., you have lost an hour of sleep. Remember to set clocks one hour hour, smart devices will update on their own. before heading to bed Saturday night. You may want to start with the coffee maker.  

The loss of sleep will be rewarded with an additional hour of daylight each evening. 

The City of Independence saw almost six tons of monthly recycling in 2018. Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson says the addition of Tuesday recycling has boosted numbers but there's still more that can be done.

Wilson says types one through seven recyclables can be dropped off every Tuesday and the first Saturday of each month at the Sanitation Yard.

Sixteen graduates of the Leadership Coffeyville received diplomas last night at ceremonies held at Coffeyville’s Sleep Inn and Suites.  A crowd of about 80 students, family members and sponsors attended the event to honor this year’s class.  The keynote speaker was Lisse Ragehr    (Lisa Ra Gear’)    who is the Director of Outreach and Advocacy for Thrive Allen County.  Ragehr noted the opportunity that the graduates have to shape the future of Coffeyville.

This year’s Leadership Coffeyville Graduating class included Ben Ames of Mosaic, Inc, Dale Appleton of CVR Nitrogen and Fertilizer, Casey Benson of Community National Bank, Jennifer Dufoe of the Coffeyville Journal, Brittney Frost of Commercial Bank, Grant Hendrix of Coffeyville SEK Tam, Kevin Hoggatt of John Deere Coffeyville Works, Sarah Hoy of Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, Jennifer Hunsucker of George Realty, Andrew Long of Montgomery County, Lashun Oakley of John Deere Coffeyville Works, Trina Reed of KGGF-KUSN-KQQF Radio, Cody Rexwinkle of the City of Coffeyville, Grady Smith of Newkirk, Dennis and Buckles, Tyler Strickland of the City of Coffeyville and Michele Van Winkle of Four County Mental Health.

Pictured in the photo are Leadesrship Coffeyville graduate Trina Reed and KGGF-KUSN-KQQF General Manager John Leonard.

During our regularly scheduled interview with Coffeyville Friends of Animals, Brad Gray mentioned his gratitude towards everyone who has donated in the past, and brought up their next big event to benefit the shelter. Karaoke in Coffeyville! Brad Gray of Coffeyville Friends of Animals brought up Cats&K9 Karaoke Night at the Yoke Bar & Grill coming up on Friday April 5th. Gray mentioned there would be music from Pat Robinson and many others pitching in, great food and drinks. The event will go from 7PM to 9PM at the Yoke and will have a 3 dollar cover charge which will directly benefit the shelter. Gray says even if Karaoke isn't your speed, they plan on having some of their four legged friends from the shelter in attendance to keep you entertained.

The Montgomery County Commissioners met on Monday, and agenda items included internet services fro the Sheriff's Dept, Public Works update, Computer Department maintenance and battery backup, the sale of Old County Health Buidling in Coffeyville, insurance open enrollment for county employees that is today thru tomorrow/Fri, Mar. 8, and the one item which commissioners took action on was the Chip & Seal of CR 1700 for rural Caney residents. County Clerk Charlotte Schmidt tells us more about it.

The pavement on CR 1700 was removed in 1983 due to continued use of heavy equipment and oil trucks which tore up the road. Commissioners directed Jim Wright, Interim Public Works Director, to prepare a cost estimate for paving the 1.5 mile stretch of country road 1700 and have it ready for consideration for the Mar. 11 meeting. Finally, the sale of Coffeyville's Old County Health Building is published as a public notice in the Mar. 7 edition of the Montgomery County Chronicle.

An event designed to promote healthy living returns once again this year as Walk Kansas 2019 fastly approaches. K-State extension agent Barbara Ames says they’re excited for the return of the event and gives our listeners all the details. A team based program designed to promote healthy living returns as Walk Kansas 2019 is fast approaching. Ames explains you and your 6 member team will pick one of the three challenges, it starts very soon and is a great place to start or continue to live healthier The three challenges are based on how much you and your group would like to be challenged. There are T-shirts available as well as Ames mentioned they need your registration by March 15th. To register visit your area extension office, call 620-331-2690 or head online to walkkansas.org.

The Daddy-Daughter Dance is this Saturday at the Field Kindley High School gymnasium. Jaime Grant of the Coffeyville Recreation Commission tells us more. 

Wow, already 600 people signed up. It's for daddy's and daughter's only, $6 per person if you're in-district, or $8 if you're out of district. Free cookies and punch, and take some cash for the candy bars. Again, it's Saturday, Mar. 9 at the Field Kindley gymnasium.. Doors open at 5:30, starts at 6:00 and ends at 8:00pm. Jaime said they'll sell tickets until Friday 5:00pm. To buy yours, contact Coffeyville Recreation Commission at 620-251-5910.

An auto accident just occurred this morning between 9-10am in Drum Creek East of Independence on 160.Montgomery County Sheriff's Office shares with KGGF News. Thankfully no injuries reported and no other vehicles were involved at that crash on Drum Creek Bridge.

Montgomery County Shreiff Bobby Dierks was scheduled to appear in District Court in Independence this afternoon facing two charges of attempting to intefere with an investigation brought by a special prosecutor.  Dierks did not appear in court for the hearing but was represernted by an attorney.  Through his attorney Sheriff Dierks entered a plea of not guilty and is required to report within 7 - 10 days.  The defense also requested a jury trial in the case.  The judge granted a motion for a 6 person jury trial set for August 12th and a pre-trial set for June 12th.  The special prosecutor was also granted a request that gives Dierks a zero tolerence ruling that he not contact any witnesses in the case with the exception of witnesses who are employed at the Sheriff's Department.

Pastors Gary and Diane Close led this month's "Outpouring of the Holy Spirit" on Sunday and Monday at Emmanuel Chapel in South Coffeyville. While the crowd was about 100 fewer people on the second day of the revival, Diane Close shares on KGGF about the many miracles that night.

If you missed January, February, or March Outpourings, plan for the next one. It seems they are only getting better, and four more churches joined the movement since this revival. They are always the first Sunday and Monday of the month. April's will be at First Assembly of God on 8^th St. in Coffeyville. For more information, call 620-515-5757.

One of the most anticipated “signs of spring” arrives this weekend when the clocks “spring forward”. Daylight Saving Time officially begins at 2am Sunday, March 10. While we lose an hour of sleep, most would agree it's worth it in exchange for longer daylight hours throughout the summer. However, it comes with a warning. Come Monday morning, the commute will look very different for school students waiting for buses and motorists driving to work – in the dark.

A spokesman for AAA Kansas said most people will see a dramatic difference during their morning commute as roadways remain darker longer, causing concern for pedestrians. Drivers need to be aware of these dangers, remain alert, and minimize distractions to reduce the risk of motor vehicle crashes. Pedestrians, including school students waiting at bus stops, should be extra vigilant of drivers maneuvering on darker streets.

Spring is about to spring! Coffeyville's 9^th Street Fresh community gardens project manager, Terry Vernon, updates us on the tilling and planting for the empty lot on 9th St.

The mid-April deadline is recommended from K-State University's Kansas Gardening Guide. 9^th Street Fresh has 15 plots left and welcome families, students, and teachers to reserve a free plot for planting. USD 445's Superintendent Craig Correll told KGGF that this Coffeyville's Reawakening project could be a student service learning project if approved by your school principal and teacher. And does anyone have access to fencing supplies to donate? Get involved by calling Terry Vernon at 918-330-0413.

The Independence Science Center is having a Science Detective Course taking place for 1st through 5th graders next week. Independence Chamber Director Lisa Wilson says this is a great place for kids to be during break as next week is Spring Break for U.S.D. 446 in Independence and many others around the area. Chamber Director Lisa Wilson talks about the event for younger kids to keep them entertained while on break all while learning a thing or two with fun activities. Wilson explains the 1st and 2nd graders will learn investigative techniques while the 3rd through 5th graders will conduct hands on tests on various pieces of evidence. The classes will take place from 1:30 to 3:30 starting on March 12th through the 14th. Wilson explains registration is due by this Friday March 8th. It costs 45 dollars for non members and 35 for members of the science center. The fee includes the cost for the workshop as well as materials through the 3 days. Wilson encourages you call 620-331-1999 for registration or more information.

Montgomery County Sheriff, Bobby Dierks is scheduled to appear in court Wednesday to face criminal charges that have been filed against him by a special prosecutor.  According to the Montgomery County Chronicle, Dierks is facing two charges for attempting to interfere with an investigation on an individual last year.

A Shawnee County prosecutor, J. Todd Hiatt was appointed by Montgomery County Attorney Larry Markle to investigate the case against Dierks.  As a result of that investigation, led by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Hiatt has filed two criminal counts against Dierks.  One of interference with a law enforcement officer by attempting to conceal, alter or destroy evidence and intimidation of a witness by preventing testimony.  Both counts are misdemeanors. 

Hiatt alleges that Direks attempted to obstruct Deputy Ian Hurst from investigating or arresting an individual involved in a misdemeanor in January of 2018.  Hiatt also says that from January through August of last year Dierks intended to dissuade a sheriffs department employee from attending or giving testimony at an administrative hearing of an individual.

According to the Chronicle in an email to his staff over the weekend Dierks asked deputies and staff to be cordial, honest and cooperative during the process, to conduct business as usual and let him take care of the politics.

Sheriff Dierks is scheduled to appear in Montgomery County District Court in Independence at 1:30 Wednesday afternoon.         

Due to the extremely cold weather, the City of Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power turned on all four steam turbine engines Monday morning (Mar. 4). When those engines are turned on, it can potentially make the city money. Utility Director Mike Shook explains.

Shook said due to current prices, there is not much of a profit this time for the city from the Grand River Dam Authority, a non-profit Oklahoma agency created to control, develop, and maintain the Grand River waterway. It was designed to be self-funded from the sales of electricity and water.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) re-introduced the Fairness for Korean DMZ Veterans Act, bipartisan legislation to expand presumption for veterans who served in the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) to cover the period of Sept. 1, 1967 to Aug. 31, 1971. The bill would match Congress’s original intent of covering the entire period of spraying to include the testing period, allowing veterans who have been negatively impacted by toxic exposure to receive their full benefits.

Sen. Moran said it would help increase access to healthcare for those who served during the testing of Agent Orange and other herbicides. He said many veterans from the Vietnam War are suffering from significant health conditions associated with exposure and are currently not being recognized by the VA. The VFW and American Legion both strongly support this bill.

Severe Weather Awareness Week was the week of Mar. 4-10 for Kansas. Do you know where your nearest storm shelter is, or do you have one? Tuesday morning, the City of Coffeyville blared their city siren for a statewide tornado drill. This is the perfect time to practice and update your emergency preparedness plan. Coffeyville has a list of storm shelters including Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, Community Elementary, Field Kindley High School, Lutheran Church, and First Church of God.

The City's website has the list with addresses and details. Go to coffeyville.com and type in storm shelter in the top search field. Results will also give an option to learn how to register your building as a storm shelter to share with others in case of a tornado, for example. For more information, go online or call the City Clerk at 620-252-6108.

In the seven weeks since the inauguration, the governor says her administration has been hard at work.  Ms. Kelly says her team presented a plan that balanced the budget, prioritized schools, paved the way for Medicaid expansion, invested in children and families, and enhanced public safety.  Together, the Topeka Democrat says her plans have increased transparency by sharing, honestly, the severity of problems uncovered at the Department of Corrections, Department for Children and Families, and Department of Revenue.

Governor Kelly says their work touches the lives of Kansans every day.

Smoke awakes a Coffeyville family early this (Monday) morning.  Just after 4 am, a small fire was discovered in back room of the home in the 400 block of West 1st Street.   Those in the house were able to put out the flames.  Coffeyville firefighters arrived to smoke in the home from smoldering insulation. It appears the fire was electrical in nature.  Damages are estimated around $600.  

No injuries were reported from the fire.  

Scientists are learning more about DNA that could reshape the conversation about evolution and intelligent design. A new book, Darwin Devolves: The New Science About DNA that Challenges Evolution, is written by author Michael Behe, a professor of Biological Sciences at Lehigh University in Pennsylvania. It's been reviewed in over 100 publications and named by National Review and World magazines as one of the most important books of the 20^th century. The author Behe says many scientists don't want to acknowledge that much of what students learn in science class is off base, but he says if we want a satisfactory answer to how the most complex life-forms arose, the only conclusion is that an intelligent mind must have designed life.

Darwin's theory of evolution has rested on the concept of natural selection, and the idea that life improves over time through evolution. However, the latest science on DNA shows unexpectedly that Darwinian processes help an organism survive not by building or creating at the genetic level, but instead by damaging or degrading genes. The author says instead of being evolutionary, the Darwinian mechanism is actually de-volutionary. Breaking things is not an explanation of how things came to be, he says. Behe has presented and debated his work at major universities throughout North America and England. The book, Darwin Devolves is on Amazon and at darwindevolves.com.

A Field Kindley high school student in Coffeyville made a threat last Friday. It was not a shooting threat. Coffeyville Police told KGGF it was a written threat as graffiti in the restroom. Captain Danny Grigg tells us more. 

 Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll told KGGF, “A message was found on a wall at Field Kinley High School. It was threatening in nature but did not contain a specific threat. However, we take all information seriously and reached out to law enforcement. Student safety is our number one priority.”

Listen to an update (Mar. 7) from Captain Grigg about an interview with a student.

Last evening's Outpouring of the Holy Spirit service with Pastor Gary Close drew about 300 people to Emmanual Chapel in South Coffeyville. For two hours people were experiencing what he calls supernatural healings and miracles, but Pastor Close has this to say about about the difference between being healed through the power of Jesus Christ, and those that are not. Today is the last day of March's Outpouring of the Holy Spirit revival. It's at 6:00pm, Emmanual Chapel, 312 Broadway in South Coffeyville. The next one is the first Sunday and Monday in April. For more information call 620-515-5757.

Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) announced today a series of social media posts that will commemorate Women's History Month. Each Friday throughout March, Rep. Estes will recognize a Kansas female who made history. Estes said, "Kansas women have shaped history and inspired future generations throughout our state and country. I look forward to highlighting that rich history throughout Women's History Month.” Estes kicked off the series Friday by recognizing Susanna M. Salter.

In 1887, Salter became the first woman elected as mayor in the small town of Argonia, Kansas, and in the United States. Originally, Salter was cast on the ballot as a prank by a group of Argonian men, yet she shocked the small town and the country when she won. Although her time in office was short, she set the stage for women to pursue their rightful place in politics. Rep. Estes will continue to feature these trailblazing Kansans on Facebook and Twitter every Friday in March.

USD 447 Cherryvale-Thayer schools will conduct a mail-out survey of patrons who voted in the November 6 election which failed a school bond question for facilities improvements by a vote of 704 to 795. School board members believe soliciting input from voters will assist in developing a facilities plan most voters will support. Superintendent Shelly Kiblinger urges every voter to complete a survey because the data is critical in putting together the right plan. While community forums will still be a part of the process, they need better data on what voters are thinking, and they hope to improve the bond development process.

The survey is only one page, front and back with multiple choice and several open-ended questions so people may write exactly what they think. Results will be compiled by a neutral third party and shared at the April 8 board meeting, then posted on the district's website and Facebook page. Kiblinger said the district has no guarantee the stawte will allow the district to run another bond election after this one in the near future.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) introduced legislation with Democrat Senator Jon Tester of Montana called the Improving Rural Access to Power Act. This legislation would increase access to capital for rural electric cooperatives, allowing them to lower energy costs and improve rural electric infrastructure. Sen. Moran said rural electric cooperatives reach under-served areas far and wide providing dependable electricity to rural Kansans to power homes, farms and small businesses. The bill will specifically increase access to capital by allowing the Federal Home Loan Banks to voluntarily purchase securities issued by qualified cooperative lending associations. This would inject more funding into electric cooperatives, allowing them to make necessary investment upgrades.

Sedan Police report an uptick in scams against area residents.  Officers tell KGGF News that far too many people are falling victim and losing thousands of dollars to various scams. The target’s best defense is education.  This evening, the Sedan Police Department hosts a free presentation at the Sedan Community Building. It will begin at 5:30 pm.  Discussion will focus on scams and how to avoid becoming a victim. 

Detectives say criminals are incredibly good at what they do. Many of the scams originate overseas and once they have your money, it's often unrecoverable. 

KGGF would like to congratulate all of the following winners of last night's door prizes. Joe Jeter of Copan won 6 passes to the Kansas City Zoo. Kevin Buetow & Sonia Larimore both from Coffeyville won Branson prize packages consisting of 2 shows and a museum pass. Pam Ott of Coffeyville won a Go Bob Pipe & Steel Hat & Gloves, Jeanie Martin of Wann won the Lucas Metal Works End of the Trail Welcome sign, Tom Seers of Pomeroy, OH won a Camo Rtic tumbler from Southern Kansas Wood Stove, Sharon Hayden of South Coffeyville, OK takes home the Sweeten Scentsy gift bag, Jerry Gruber of Coffeyville, Ed Snider of Chelsea, OK & Larry Noble of Bartlett, KS all take home a trip around the course at the Caney Golf Club. The Grand Prize winner of the $500 is Stephanie Davis of Coffeyville.

Congratulations to all of our winners and come see us today for more chances to win and check out all of our great vendors.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt attended oral arguments Wed., Feb. 27 in a case in which Kansas and other states are urging the U.S. Supreme Court to protect historical veterans memorials containing religious symbolism on public property, such as preventing the tearing down or relocation of memorials in the shape of a cross to honor American service members who died in WWI nearly 100 years ago.

Schmidt said that the argument made it clear that the Supreme Court continues to struggle on articulating the boundary between what the Constitution allows and what it prohibits in terms of passive religious symbols on public property. He said he is hopeful the court will use this case to give clearer guidance to minimize future litigation and protect historical markers and memorials that are important to many Kansans. A decision in the case is expected by the end of June.

(AP Photo Courtesy of Orlin Wagner)

Red Ravens fans, you have only until 12:00 Friday, March 1 to reserve your bus seat for Sunday's Region VI games in Wichita. There are 29 seats left on the bus which loads at the Gilmer K. Nellis Gymnasium parking lot at 2:45, leaves at 3:00 for the 7:00 game. Each seat is $20, not including game ticket and food. Call Jana Kastler at 620-252-7360 or email her at kastler.jana@coffeyville.edu. Also, if the men, win, two buses load Monday, March 4 at 1:10, leaves at 1:30 for the game at 5:00. You may RSVP by Monday for that one if the men win on Sunday.

Out of Washington, Congressman Ron Estes (R-Kansas) released a statement about the Bipartisan Background Checks Act and the Enhanced Background Checks Bill of 2019 Bill. On Thursday, Rep. Estes voted against the Background Checks Act in the U.S. House which is considering the Enhanced Background Checks Bill today. Rep. Estes said both pieces of legislation “are a combined effort to infringe on law-abiding citizens' Second Amendment rights and will do nothing to address the root causes of gun violence like theft of firearms, straw purchases or the underground market.

Rep. Estes said both bills “would expand the required days to wait for a background check and require every transfer of a firearm go through a government agency, including lending a gun to a friend to shoot trap or to a domestic abuse victim to protect themselves. Instead of protecting victims, this legislation would turn innocent citizens into felons and lead to pointless delays and government overreach for law-abiding citizens seeking to exercise their Second Amendment rights." While Rep. Estes opposes the two bills, he said he's proud to cosponsor the Mass Violence Protection Act of 2019 to ensure local, state and federal agencies work together to keep guns away from criminals and prosecute criminal violations of the law. Estes said, "I will continue to fight for the Second Amendment rights of all Kansans to defend themselves, their families and their homes.”