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Local News Archives for 2020-08

Traffic Stops Turns into Drug Arrest in Caney

 

A routine traffic stop turns into a drug arrest in Caney this weekend. This weekend a Caney Officer made a traffic stop, at 6th and Foreman, on a vehicle displaying illegal tags. The driver, 39 year old William Purcell of Bartlesville, was also driving on a suspended license.

 

The vehicle was searched and drug paraphernalia, marijuana and methamphetamine were found. Purcell was transported to the Montgomery County Jail and charged with operating a vehicle without registration, driving while suspended, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana and possession of methamphetamine.

One Suspect Involved in Casey's Robbery in Custody

 

The Caney Police Department and Montgomery County Sheriff's Office have one person in custody for the armed robbery at Casey's General Store in Caney. The robbery occurred around 12:25am as an armed suspect entered Casey's wearing a green shirt, blue jeans and flip flops. This is an active investigation and officers expect at least one more arrest.

 

Anyone with information should contact the Caney Police Department at 620-879-2141. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department and Caney Police Department are working the case together as other crimes occurred in the county.

$2000 Coming for Some Local Business Workers

 

A payment of $2,000 will be coming for some full-time workers in Montgomery County. It was approved at Monday's County Commission Meeting that businesses that applied for funds will receive extra money for its workers due to the coronavirus pandemic. An extra $1,000 will be available for part-time workers as well.

 

The county received $132,000 in funds to distribute to local businesses affected by the pandemic. These payments will be broken down into two terms for a total of $55,000 distributed per term.

 

The dates of when these funds will be distributed are to be determined.

Chautauqua County Commission Donates to Elgin Jamboree

 

The Chautauqua County Commission voted to donate another $500 to the Elgin Jamboree at its weekly meeting Monday. This marks the third straight year that the commission has donated to the jamboree. Event organizer Mike Travelletti said these funds are carefully managed and go to the town's needs.

 

This year's Elgin Jamboree will be held on September 26th from 10 a.m. to midnight. Food and drink will be available, and there will also be space for lawn chairs, blankets and tents. All proceeds for the event will benefit the town of Elgin.

$10,000 Reward Offered For Information Leading to Discovery of Galena Woman

 

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office has announced that through private funds, a $10,000 reward is being offered for information to which will lead to the discovery of the remains of a Gelena woman.

 

On the night of August 31, 1991, Karol Marlene Sullens disappeared from a Galena, Kansas nightclub, never to be seen again. In April of 2002, Donald D. Kidwell was sentenced in connection to Karol's disappearance, although her body has never been recovered.

 

If someone has specific information as to the location of Karol's remains, they can contact the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office at 620-429-3992, by visiting the agency website at www.cherokeecountykssheriff.com or by texting 888777. Just type 'tip cherokee' followed by the specific information they wish to provide.

New Driver Grant Program

 

A new Driver Education Reimbursement Grant Program has been established to provide financial assistance to driver’s education programs to help individuals who may not have been able to participate otherwise. The program is part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program.

 

The driver education provider will be reimbursed up to $200 per eligible student who completes the program. Some of the eligibility requirement include - the provider must have an approved driver education program or driver training school, maintain records on students for at least five years and certify all students meet the guidelines. Students must also be between the age of 14 and 29 and a resident of Kansas, has not had their driving privilege suspended in any way, and demonstrate financial need.

 

The deadline for driver education program providers to apply for the program is Oct. 9. More details on the reimbursement grant program and an application can be found here.

Armed Robbery in Caney

 

The Caney Police Department is searching for a suspect that robbed a Caney convienience store early Monday morning. The suspect robbed Casey's General Store at around 12:25 a.m. and was armed. The suspect appeared on the store's security cameras wearing an army green shirt, blue jeans, and flip flops. They were approximated to have been around 6 feet 2 inches tall and around 150 pounds.

 

Anyone with information on who the suspect may be should contact the Caney Police Department at 620-879-2141.

Possible Severe Weather Moving into Area this Afternoon

 

There could be severe weather moving into southeast Kansas starting this afternoon. The National Weather Service in Witchita is following a cold front that is expected to move south over the area today.

 

If that front stalls, severe storm chances will increase for much of the Flint Hills and southeast Kansas this afternoon. However, if the front continues through, that severe storm chance will be limited to areas alongside the Kansas/Oklahoma border. Severe storms that might develop under this front are expected to include golf ball size hail and gusty winds of up to 65 mph.

 

As always, in case of severe weather, make sure to tune into 690 AM, KGGF for wall-to-wall coverage.

Gas Prices Up Across Nation, Kansas

 

At $2.23, the national gas price average increased by five cents on the week. That is up five cents from a month ago and 35 cents cheaper than a year ago. Prices are also on the rise in Kansas.

 

According to AAA, Kansas prices currently sit at $2.00, which is 3 cents higher than at the same time last week. Montgomery County is currently at $1.96 a gallon, while Labette County is one cent higher at $1.97 a gallon. Chautauqua County checked in with $1.98 a gallon.

 

Across the border in Oklahoma, the state average is $1.93. Washington County came in at $1.89 a gallon while Nowata County clocked in at $1.87 a gallon.

K-58 Resurfacing Project Begins Next Week

 

For motorists who those travel on K-58, they can expect some slowdowns as the Kansas Department of Transportation plans to start a resurfacing project next week beginning on Monday.

 

The 15-mile project area begins at the west city limits of Leroy, continues east, and ends at U.S. 169. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone during daylight hours. The resurfacing work should be finished in one month, weather permitting.

 

Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc., of Topeka, is the contractor on the project, which have a construction cost of $1.1 million.

Kansas AG Partners with Hospital Association to Combat Human Trafficking

 

Attorney General Derek Schmidt today announced a new partnership with the Kansas Hospital Association to create an online toolkit for increased awareness within the health care community of human trafficking.

 

The goal of the partnership, as described by Schmidt in a press release sent out Thursday, is to provide "practical and effective tools to help all health care providers identify, interact and intervene in situations where human trafficking is suspected".

 

Human trafficking is one of the fastest growing criminal industries in the world. Statistics cited by Schmidt show that 88 percent of sex trafficking victims said they had contact with a medical provider while they were being trafficked.

 

The toolkit was developed over several months through collaboration between the Kansas Hospital Association and Schmidt's office. Resources include research-based approaches to providing patient care, screening methodology and models for hospitals to develop policies and procedures for assisting human trafficking victims. The toolkit can be accessed at this link.

 

 

KDHE Amends Travel Quarantine List

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has amended its travel quarantine list guidance to include Aruba. Additionally, those countries which previously held a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice with restrictions have been removed from the list effective today – this is in line with newly issued CDC guidance.

 

A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days includes visitors and Kansans who have:

• Travel to Aruba on or after August 27.

• Attended/traveled to mass gathering events out-of-state of 500 people or greater on or after August 11.

• Traveled July 14 – August 27 to countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice and restrictions on entry into the United States, including China, Iran, European Schengen area, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and Brazil.

• Been on a cruise ship or a river cruise on or after March 15.

 

“While we are removing certain countries from our travel restrictions in line with CDC guidance, we will continue to issue travel quarantines of locations or activities that pose the largest threats to Kansans,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “For countries and/or states, the criteria will continue to be those that have new case rates three times the Kansas rate.”

Indy City Commission Approves Change Orders for City Hall Project

 

The Independence City Commission approved three change orders regarding the 1916 City Hall project at its regular meeting Thursday. Change Orders 8, 9, and 10 will bring $30,187.30 in deducts to the project. Change Order 10 in particular concerns the elimination of windows on the east side of the building and makes up the bulk of the total in deducts.

 

An ongoing issue with the project has been frequent delays with receiving windows for the project. Commissioner Leonhard Caflisch expressed concerns with the delays that the project's contractor has experienced.

 

Commissioner Dean Hayse brought up his experience in project management, saying that the delivery of the windows should have been prioritized.

 

The total project time, according to Caflish, has passed 400 days. The original end date for the project is scheduled in late September. Additional documentation regarding the change orders can be found here.

Crawford Co Mental Health Receives Grant

 

Crawford County Mental Health Center was awarded a grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas to fund the “The Recovery Backpack of Hope” Program. This program will provide clients entering the residential addiction treatment program with basic hygiene and clothing needs.

 

Approximately 50 clients enter the Addiction Treatment Center residential program annually without any possessions. This program will provide these clients with those necessities. Executive Administrator Michael Ehling says they are extremely grateful for the support of the Community Foundation of SEK, and the support allows them to continue to serve and meet the mental health needs of the community.

Movie Night at the Park

 

For those looking to get out this weekend, the Independence Chamber of Commerce is putting on their annual movie night. But, unlike years past, the location of the movie has changed. Executive Director of the Independence Chamber of Commerce Lisa Wilson talks about the new location and what activities will be available.

 

The movie is free and open to the public and spectators will be invited to bring out their lawn chairs. For more information on this event, contact the chamber at (620) 331-1890.

Kansas To Apply for Lost Wages Assistance

 

Out-of-work Kansans may receive an extra money in unemployment benefits as Governor Laura Kelly announced that Kansas will apply for the Lost Wages Assistance program.

 

Kelly said that she had hoped that U.S. Senate would return early from vacation and extend federal benefits but said “I could not sit by idly while many Kansans are still facing unemployment.”

 

If Kansas’ application is approved, the program will provide eligible claimants with an additional $400 per week on top of their regular unemployment benefits. The program is only available for those who are receiving at least $100 in unemployment benefits.

 

If Kansas’ application is approved, implementation of LWA program will take several weeks to execute, and KDOL estimates that claimants will begin receiving benefits no sooner than late September.

 

For those who are eligible, payments will be retroactive to the week ending Aug. 1, and will remain in effect until FEMA terminates the program.

 

Cooler Weather, Chance for Storms This Weekend

 

A return to normalcy is in the works for Southeastern Kansas, as cooler temperatures are predicted for most of the area. The National Weather Service in Wichita is predicting highs in the upper-80s, including 89 in Coffeyville and 87 in Chanute.

 

The NWS has predicted an increased chance for storms this weekend as well. There'll be just under a 30 percent chance of rain in Coffeyville, with some isolated strong to severe storms possible. In case of severe weather, make sure to tune in to 690 AM, KGGF, for wall-to-wall coverage.

Three Charged With Murder, Burglary

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and several law agencies arrested two men and a teen connected to the murder of 78-year-old Danny Shue from Eureka.

 

On Tuesday, KBI agents and sheriff’s deputies arrested 30-year-old Noah J. E. Farr of Dighton. Farr was arrested and booked into the Finney County Jail. Approximately two hours later, a 17-year-old male from El Dorado was arrested at the El Dorado Police Department and then transported to an area juvenile facility where he is being held. Later Tuesday night, 25-year-old Joseph E. Warden of El Dorado was arrested and booked into the Greenwood County Jail. The Lane County Sheriff’s Office and the El Dorado Police Department assisted with the arrests.

 

Farr, Warden, and the juvenile were each charged with felony murder, aggravated burglary, felony theft, and conspiracy to commit felony theft. The investigation is ongoing.

Nowata Elementary Closes Due to Water Leak

 

Nowata Public Schools closed all campuses on Wednesday due a water leak at Nowata Elementary school. according to the district’s social media sites. The districtwide closure was not related to COVID-19. Students were given the opportunity to practice virtual learning for one day and elementary parents were encouraged to read with their child for at least 30 minutes.

 

NPS also said that due to the 21 active COVID-19 cases in the county, all non-participants will be required to wear a mask to attend Friday’s football game against Oklahoma Union.

K-99 Resurfacing Projects Begin in September

 

Motorists in two Southeast Kansas counties will need to give themselves extra time as the Kansas Department of Transportation expects to begin two projects next Thursday to resurface K-99 in Elk and Greenwood counties.

 

The mill and overlay project area starts at the east junction of U.S. 160 and continues north to U.S. 400.

 

Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone during daylight hours; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. The resurfacing work should be finished in one month, weather permitting.

 

Cornejo & Sons of Wichita, is the contractor on the projects, which have a combined construction cost of $1.9 million.

 

PSU Asks Students to Limit Off Campus Gatherings

 

Pittsburg State University is asking students to limit off-campus gatherings as they appear to have contributed to an increase in positive cases of COVID-19. Since the start of classes on August 17th, the health center at Pitt State has tested 39 students, with 15 testing positive. The student health center is currently monitoring 34 COVID-positive students in isolation, and an additional 70 in quarantine as identified as close contacts of those infected. 

 

In the past week, infection rates have escalated quickly among the 18-25 age group in Crawford County. On August 17th, the county had 34 active cases in isolation and 77 close contacts in quarantine. As of their most recent update the numbers have jumped to 100 positive cases in isolation and an additional 400+ close contacts in quarantine.

 

HUD Administrator Tours Southeast Kansas

The Region 7 Administrator for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development is touring southeast Kansas, including Coffeyville, Independence, and Parsons.  Jason Mohr said he is touring HUD-funded projects and affordable housing developments. 

 

Mohr began his Coffeyville tour Wednesday afternoon meeting with community and city leaders at the Chamber of Commerce before beginning his tour.  Mohr then ended his time in Coffeyville reviewing his impressions of what he saw on the tour.                   

Neosho County Woman Arrested for Possession

 

A 36-year old woman was arrested on a pair of possession charges.

 

Early Tuesday morning, Chanute Police were sent out to check on a vehicle in the parking lot in the 1200 block of West Main Street. During the investigation, CPD K9 indicated the presence of drugs. Officers applied for and were granted a search warrant for the vehicle. During the search, officers located items associated with illegal narcotics. The 1998 GMC Sierra was seized pending civil forfeiture action.

 

At around 3:30 am the next morning officers spoke with an adult female requesting to know about her vehicle. Officers arrested September A. Wilson for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. She was transported to the Neosho County Jail.

IHS Ranks Highly Among Kansas High Schools

 

Independence High School has been ranked as one of the top 30 high schools in the state of Kansas. According to the U.S. News Best High Schools rankings, which ranks over 18,000 schools across the United States, Independence ranks 27th in Kansas and 3,786th nationally. IHS was recorded as having a 90% graduation rate and a 16.4 (out of 100) college preparedness score. Rankings are based on factors such as college preparedness and state assessments.

 

There were 290 ranked schools in Kansas. Caney Valley High School ranked 104th, Field Kindley High School in Coffeyville ranked 146th, and Cherryvale High School came in ranked 180th. A full list with both state and national ranks can be seen by following this link.

U.S. 75 Projects To Start Next Week

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation expects to begin resurfacing projects on two sections of U.S. 75 next week.

 

Project activity includes a mill and overlay from the Wilson-Woodson county line, north for 11 miles to the city limits of Yates Center and from the north K-58 junction, north for six miles to the Burlington city limits.

 

Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone during daylight hours; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. The resurfacing work should be finished by late October, weather permitting.

 

Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc., of Topeka, is the contractor on the projects, which have a combined construction cost of $2.2 million.

Indy Man Leads Police on Chase and Fights Officers

 

An Independence man leads the Independence Police Department and Montgomery County Sheriff's Office on a pursuit that ends in a crash. Earlier this week a vehicle fled from IDP officers tossing drug evidence from the vehicle and proceeding off-road, striking a tree and eventually losing control of the vehicle. The driver was injured while exiting his vehicle and fled on foot eventually fighting a deputy and officer before being taken into custody.

 

The driver was transported by ambulance and received treatment at Labette Health. While at the emergency room the suspect punched an officer in the face. The driver was identified as 36 year old Travis Jones who was arrested and charged with several felonies including possession of a stimulant, possession of a hallucinogen, possession of drug paraphernalia, fleeing and alluding, destruction of evidence, and several traffic charges as well as battery of a law enforcement officer.

 

Chatauqua County Doctor Raises Concerns During Commission Meeting

The Chautauqua County Commission's decision to not go along with Kansas's COVID-related disaster declaration was the focus of Monday's regular meeting.

 

Dr. James McDermott presented his findings in front of the commission. He said Chautauqua County is the only county in Kansas to not follow through with a disaster declaration, which would entitle the county to assistance and resources.

 

Emergency Management Director Cody Collier said there is no reason to go along with the declaration if there isn't actually a disaster in the county. KDHE numbers claim that there have been 8 cases of COVID-19 in the county since March. The total population of the county is estimated to be around 3,250 as of 2019.

 

 

Pair of Men Arrested on Drug Charges

 

Two men were arrested early Tuesday morning on various drug charges.

 

Chanute Police conducted a traffic stop at around 1:00 a.m. in the 1600 block of South Santa Fe. During the questioning and investigation, CPD K9 was deployed and indicated the presence of drugs.

 

32-year-old Travis Allen Wynn of Bronson was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also arrested was 32-year-old Cody E. Baldwin of Pittsburg for possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

The 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander they were driving was seized pending civil forfeiture action. They were both transported to the Neosho County Jail without incident.

Nowata Woman Arrested for Trespassing

 

A Nowata woman was arrested in Washington County after allegedly trespassing and removing all of her clothes at a residence.  Liberty Boos appeared in custody at the Washington County Courthouse on Monday. The defendant was charged with a count of breaking and entering.

 

According to an affidavit, deputies were dispatched to an undisclosed address within Washington County. The property owner claimed that Boos had entered his guest home without permission and had entered the upstairs bedroom. The victim found her in the bathroom and when he threatened to call the police Boos took off her clothes.

 

Deputies arrived and said the defendant appeared confused. Boos believed she was at her sister’s house. She was then ordered to put her clothes back on and was detained. Her bond was set at $1,000.

Neosho County Candidate Killed in US-59 Accident

 

A man killed in a two-vehicle crash on US-59 was a candidate for the Neosho County Commission.

 

Christopher Ellis was the Republican nominee for the Neosho County Commission 2nd District, set to run against incumbent Democrat David Orr in November. KGGF originally reported the crash happened Sunday afternoon, when 79-year-old Barbara Clingen of Parsons crossed over into the northbound lane and hit a 2009 Harley-Davidson driven by Ellis.

 

Ellis was transported to Miami County Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Clingan was taken to Labette Health with a suspected minor injury.

Caney Woman Arrested For Possession of Controlled Substances

 

On Monday, an Officer with the Caney Police Department made a traffic stop in the 700 block of State St. in Caney.

 

The officer stopped the violator for driving while suspended. She was arrested for driving while suspended and controlled substances were found in her purse.

 

The female was identified as 39-year-old Kristen Hines. She was transported to the Montgomery County Jail. Upon being booked into the jail, during a search of her person jail personnel found more controlled substances on her person.

 

Hines will face charges of driving while suspended, possession of controlled substance and trafficking contraband into a penal institution.

Burglary and Theft Reported in Caney

 

The Caney Police Department is investigating a burglary that resulted in the theft of several firearms and weapons.

 

The CPD received word of on Monday of the theft, which was reported at the 500 block of Main Street.  The owner of the home reported that someone had broken into their home while they were away. Upon investigation, it was found that someone had removed a 9MM pistol, .22 caliber revolver and an AR 15 rifle from the home. Three swords were also stolen.

 

Anyone with any information concerning this crime should contact the Caney Police Department at 620-879-2141.

Independence City Commission Agenda for 8-27

 

The Independence City Commission will consider more change orders to the ongoing 1916 City Hall Project when it meets for its regular session this Thursday.

 

The commission will take a look at Change Orders 8, 9 and 10, which are estimated at a cost of about $30,100. The project is being funded by the Special Use Sales Tax for Buildings and Facilities.

 

Also on the agenda is the consideration of two special meetings. One of those meetings will be used for the purpose of discussing the Independence Police Department's response to the Chamber of Commerce's Diversity Task Force. Independence Police Chief Jerry Harrison hopes to foster transparency and have an open discussion through the meeting. The meeting, if set, will be able to be seen through several outlets, including Facebook Live and cable access.

 

The other meeting would be used to discuss security training and to develop a security response plan for city commission meetings. Thursday's meeting will begin at 5:30 PM. You can take a look at the full agenda here.

Pittsburg Woman Arrested for Leaving Child in Hot Car

 

According to KOAM, a Pittsburg woman is being arrested for leaving her nine-month-old child in her vehicle at a Walmart.

 

On Sunday afternoon, Pittsburg police responded to a report of an infant being left alone with the temperatures exceeding 90 degrees. The woman was later arrested, and the child was taken to the hospital after being inside the vehicle for 20 minutes.

 

The mother was arrested on a felony aggravated endangerment of a child charge but was released on a $3,000 bond. Official charges are pending.

UPDATE: Montgomery County RWD 9 Boil Water Advisory Rescinded

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded a boil water advisory for Montgomery County RWD 9, located in Montgomery County. The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure due to a line break. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

 

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown.

 

Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory. Laboratory testing samples collected from Montgomery County RWD 9 indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.

 

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514.

USD 445 Adopts Budget

 

A public hearing was held for the 2020-2021 USD 445 Budget. There were about ten people in attendance, with four speaking to the board in regards to the budget. Citizen Max Williams was in support of some of the improvements but says there could be cuts in other areas.

 

One of the main questions was in regards to the one mill increase and how much that would be. Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll says on a $100,000 home it would be about $12 a year. The board voted unanimously to adopt the budget.

Weekend COVID Update

 

As we start the last full week of August, Montgomery County currently has 32 active cases of COVID-19 and Labette County has 26 active cases.

 

According to the Montgomery County Health Department, there were 15 recoveries last week and 15 new cases since our last update. Since March there have been 205 total Coronavirus cases in Montgomery County.

 

According to the Labette County Health Department, there have been 13 recoveries and 4 new cases since our last update. Since March there have been 164 total cases in Labette County. Statewide over the weekend, there were 1,545 new cases and 7 deaths reported.

Nowata Sheriff Wants Security Upgrade

 

Security at the Nowata County Sheriff's Office was the topic at the most recent county commission meeting. Sheriff Jason McClain says the sheriff’s office front door needs to be secured instead of being open to the public for entry.

 

Sheriff McClain says anyone wishing to enter the office would need to be buzzed in through an intercom after an initial screening. The estimated cost of the project is roughly $4,000 and would qualify for possible CARES Act reimbursement.

 

 

One Dead in Neosho County Crash

 

A man was killed in a two-vehicle crash on Sunday afternoon in northern Neosho County.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2013 Buick driven by 79-year-old Barbara Clingan of Parsons was headed south on U.S. Highway 59 3 miles north of Erie when for an unknown reason she crossed over into the northbound lane and hit a 2009 Harley-Davidson driven by 31-year-old Christopher Ellis of Erie with her passenger side.

 

Ellis was transported to Miami County Medical Center where he was pronounced dead. Clingan was taken to Labette Health with a suspected minor injury.

UPDATE: Drowning at Parsons Lake Beach

 

A five-year-old died after drowning at Parsons Lake Beach over the weekend.

 

Parsons Police Officers were dispatched to the beach of the Parsons Lake for a possible juvenile drowning. CPR was performed on the victim until Labette Health EMS arrived at the scene and transported the juvenile to Labette Health Emergency Department. Despite the lifesaving efforts of all involved, the juvenile, Mason Weber, was later pronounced deceased at Labette Health. 

 

Investigators were called to assist first responders with gathering witness information and evidence at the scene but it is believed that the drowning was accidental.

 

A GoFundMe has been set up for Mason's funeral expenses which can be found here.

Special Meeting for USD 445 on Monday

 

The USD 445 Board of Education has acted to call a special meeting for this Monday, August 24. The meeting will be a short one, with only the adoption of the 2020-21 district budget to be completed. A few personnel changes are also on the agenda to be taken action on.

 

The board will meet at the Board Office at 615 Ellis this Monday at 5 p.m. 

Traveling Women's Suffrage Exhibit Coming to PSU

 

A traveling exhibit that brings to life the history of the women’s suffrage movement in Kansas will come to Pittsburg State University just a few days after the 100th anniversary of the adoption of the 19th Amendment, which granted women the right to vote.

 

The exhibit’s panels feature some of the historic women who led the women’s right to vote movement in the early 20th Century. Included in the exhibit information about Clarina Nichols who fought for women in Kansas for decades to ensure their inclusion in civic life. Kansas was on the leading edge, as women could vote in all elections in Kansas starting in 1912 — eight years before the 19th Amendment extended that right to the rest of the country.

 

The exhibit will be displayed in the Bicknell Art Gallery inside the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts from Aug. 31 through Sept. 4. It then will then go to the Leonard H. Axe Library at PSU from Sept. 4 through Sept. 11.

UPDATE: KDWPT Allowing Lights for Coyote Hunting

 

The Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism has approved the use of lights, night vision, and thermal imaging for coyote hunting. The commissioners of the KDWPT voted in favor of the usage of lights in Thursday's monthly Commission meeting.

 

The KDWPT thanks all of those who participated in the virtual meeting, and for all the different opinions on the matter. The public had many different ways of joining the meeting including on Zoom, calling in by phone, or watching the live stream.

 

The next Commission meeting will be held on September 24th. Details on the upcoming meeting are unknown in regards to whether it will be strictly virtual like Thursday's meeting.

 

 

Low COVID Numbers This Week

 

No new cases of COVID-19 have been reported so far this week in Montgomery County, according to the county health department. There are currently 32 active cases and there have been a total of 190 cases reported since March.

 

According to the Labette County Health Department, there has only been one new reported case and 11 recoveries bringing their active cases to 34 and total cases to 160.

 

Statewide from Monday to Wednesday, there were 723 new cases and 6 deaths reported. Down in Oklahoma, there are currently 12 active cases in Nowata County and 85 active cases in Washington County.

Man Arrested For Burglary and Theft

 

A man in Chanute was arrested on charges of burglary and theft.

 

Chanute Police responded to the area of the 500 block of North Garfield for a report of a car burglary. Officers spoke with the owner of the vehicle and the owner mentioned they had arrived home and after a few minutes, went out to check their vehicle and noticed several items missing from inside. Witnesses in the area were able to give officers a description of the individual that they reported as being in the vehicle.

 

Once officers began to canvas the area, they located an individual matching the description on a bicycle in the 700 block of North Santa Fe. After speaking with the individual, officers arrested 24-year old John Michael Bixler for burglary of a vehicle and theft. Bixler had previously been arrested for multiple counts of burglary and thefts in October of last year.

Dog Bite in Caney

 

Caney Police and Animal Control recently responded to a report of a dog bite victim.

 

CPD and Animal Control were dispatched to the 600 block of East 5th Street. The female victim reported being attacked by her neighbor's dog, while she was in her yard. The victim sought medical attention for the dog bite on her own.

 

Officers made contact with the owner of the dog and took the dog into custody for a mandatory quarantine. The dog's owner was issued a citation for a vicious dog and is scheduled to appear in city court.

 

The Caney Police Department urges everyone to make sure their animals are current on their vaccinations and have current city dog tags.

COVID-19 Case Confirmed at Oklahoma Caney Valley Schools

 

An Oklahoma Caney Valley Public Schools employee has tested positive for COVID-19.

Superintendent Steven Cantrell said there is nothing more important to the Oklahoma Caney Valley School District than the safety and health of their students, their staff and their families. All students at Caney Valley Elementary in Oklahoma could have had close contact with the teacher, so the district will be closing on-site instruction and will utilize its remote learning platform from Thursday, Aug. 20th through Friday, Aug. 28th.

Cantrell says the district is working directly with county health officials to address this situation. He says it is important to know that should your child start exhibiting COVID related symptoms, it is strongly recommended that you contact their primary care physician or the local health department to have them tested immediately.  

 

During remote learning, Oklahoma Caney Valley Schools will allow high school outdoor activities to continue.  All indoor activities and middle school outdoor activities will be suspended and made up if possible. Practices may continue on a voluntary basis.  

 

Caney Valley in Oklahoma will continue to follow all COVID-19 related safety procedures including requiring temperature checks prior to any activity for anyone entering a school facility, the strong encouragement for patrons to wear masks and social distancing from family units.  Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, all students in first through eighth grade must be accompanied by a parent or guardian to gain admittance into an athletic event being played at a Caney Valley facility.

 

Cantrell says the greatest priority is the safety of students, staff and community members. It is important to remember that children are greatly influenced by the reactions of adults when facing difficult circumstances. Cantrell encourages everyone to remain calm and to be empathic and respectful to those affected.

"You Drink You Drive You Lose" Up Ahead

 

The Montgomery County Sheriff's Department is joining other local and state police agencies across Kansas in a crackdown aimed at removing drunk and other impaired drivers from the roadways.

 

"You Drink. You Drive. You Lose" will run from August 20th through Labor Day, September 7th. The enforcement campaign is intended to remind drivers to have a sober driver lined up before any alcohol is consumed and to check any new prescription medication for driving warnings. The campaign is also aimed at reminding others that wearing a seatbelt is the best defense against impaired drivers.

 

In 2018 one person was killed in a drunk driving crash every 50 minutes in the United States.

CPD Investigating Car Break-Ins

 

The Coffeyville Police Department is investigating several car break-ins in west Coffeyville. The burglaries took place during the overnight hours between Tuesday and Wednesday of this week, during which several valuables were taken from unlocked vehicles. The CPD is asking anyone in the area west of Highland and north from 8th Street to Woodland Avenue to check any security footage they may have.

 

The CPD is also reminding residents to consider taking up a 9 PM routine, during which valuables are removed from cars, porch lights or outdoor lighting is turned on, and doors are locked. Any information about the recent break-ins can be reported to the police department at 620-252-6160.

Unofficial Final Numbers Have Peck Winning by Small Margin

 

The unofficial final results for the Kansas primary election are in, and it was a slim margin in deciding who would win the Republican nomination for the District 15 Senate seat. The Challenger Virgil Peck says there were 10,263 votes cast.

 

Incumbent Dan Goddard won both Neosho and Labette County but lost by a wide margin in Montgomery County. Peck says it is a very humbling experience to receive so much support from his home county.  The Kansas State Board of Canvassers, which is comprised of the Governor, Secretary of State and Attorney General, will meet August 28th to certify the 2020 primary election results.

 

UPDATE: Break-in Suspect Identified

 

The suspect involved in a break-in in Labette County has been identified. Earlier this week the Labette County 911 dispatch received a call of an individual laying on the ground at the intersection of Highway 59 & 17000 Road. Upon arrival, deputies found a man bleeding from the chest. During the investigation, officers learned that the man broke into a nearby residence.

 

Upon hearing someone inside his home, the owner shot the armed suspect prior to him running from the house. The suspect, who has been identified as 33-year-old Jake Cervantes of Parsons, was taken by ambulance to Labette Health and later transferred to Freeman Hospital in Joplin. Cervantes is charged with aggravated burglary and aggravated assault.

New End Month Announced for Roundabout

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation has announced that the roundabout project at the intersection of U.S. 59 and U.S. 160 east of Altamont should be completed by December, weather permitting.

 

Originally, the project was to end this summer but due to the coronavirus, work was halted until just a few months back. The remaining items on the job include overhead lights, sign placement, and demolition of the temporary road around the project.

 

The $3.1 million project is being handled by LaForge and Budd Construction of Parsons and they have 115 working days to complete the roundabout.

Two Injured in Chautauqua County Crash

 

Two women were injured in a two-vehicle accident Tuesday afternoon at the intersection of U.S. 166 and K-99 in Chautauqua County.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2016 Ford Fiesta driven by 48-year-old Jason Gary Hall of Jennings Oklahoma was southbound on K-99 at the stop sign while a 2014 Ford Cruze, driven by 35-year-old Traci Marie Koebel of Waterville, was westbound on U.S. 166.

 

Hall failed to yield to Koebel and entered the intersection and was struck by Koebel's vehicle. Koebel and her passenger, 42-year old Cheryl Lyn Farley of Maryville, were both transported to Sedan City Hospital with serious and minor injuries, respectively. Hall had no apparent injuries.

 

Caney River Fugitive Sentenced After Plea

 

A Cherryvale man has agreed to plead guilty on an attempting to elude police charge.

 

Jeremiah McKenzie was slated to go to trial this week in Washington County, Oklahoma. Instead, he agreed to exchange a guilty plea in return for five years in the Department of Corrections and a $1,000 fine.

 

McKenzie was arrested in April after a police chase led to him hanging from a tree above the Caney River for several hours. McKenzie has two prior felony convictions out of Montgomery County. A stipulation of his agreement will see one of these previous convictions dismissed.

Break-In Suspect Found Laying On Highway 59

 

On Tuesday morning, around 6:00 a.m., the Labette County 9-1-1 dispatcher received a call in reference to an individual laying on the highway at Hwy 59 & 17000 rd.

 

Upon the arrival of deputies, they found a 33-year-old male bleeding from the chest. During the investigation, officers learned that the suspect broke into a nearby residence. Upon hearing the suspect inside the home, the owner shot the armed suspect prior to him running from the house.

 

The suspect was taken by ambulance to Labette Health and later transferred to Freeman Hospital in Joplin. At this time the investigation is ongoing and no names have been released.

KDWPT to Discuss Coyote Hunting Rule

 

According to the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, hunters in Kansas are allowed to hunt coyotes year-round without the assistance of lights, but a new proposal will be voted on in a virtual commission meeting on Thursday at 6:30 p.m. to allow the use of lights, night vision, and thermal imaging to hunt coyotes.

 

Members of the public will have opportunities to comment on the proposal as well as other non-agenda topics throughout the meeting.

 

The public is encouraged to participate in the meeting, which begins at 1:30 p.m., recesses at 5 p.m., and reconvenes at 6:30 p.m. for a public hearing.

 

You can join the meeting via Zoom, call in at 1-877-853-5257, or watch the live stream of the meeting at ksoutdoors.com/commission-meeting. The link to the Zoom call is https://zoom.us/meeting/register/tJItcO6uqTwtHdZHP2WeX4TDdA8_RkwiFyR8.

Four New Cases From Same House

 

Halfway through the month of August, there are currently 32 active cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County and 44 active cases in Labette County. There were four new cases reported over the weekend in Montgomery County and Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson says all four of the new cases come from the same address.

 

Last week the county saw 20 people recover from the Coronavirus. In Labette County, they had two new cases of COVID-19 reported over the weekend and saw four people recover from the virus from Friday to Monday. Statewide, the Kansas Department of Health reports that there were 1,282 new cases and three new deaths over the weekend.

15 Positive Cases at PSU

 

Four new cases of COVID-19 announced from the 756 Pittsburg State University students that were tested. Over the past few weeks Pitt State tested the students as part of a move-in process required by the county of those planning to live in residence halls. There are now 15 positive cases, which is a 1.98% positive rate. Those who tested positive either returned home or moved off campus to alternative housing. Crawford County Health Director Rebecca Adamson says two are already out of isolation, and all test results are in. The tests, conducted via saliva samples, were sent to a lab in Parsons for 24-hour results. The county is working with the university on contact tracing.

Drunk Driving Enforcement Campaign Begins Thursday

 

Citizens are warned that the Coffeyville Police Department will join almost 190 other local and state police agencies across Kansas, during the period of August 20th through Labor Day, September 7th, in a crackdown aimed at removing drunk and other drugged drivers from the roadways during “You Drink. You Drive. You Lose.”

 

According to KDOT, alcohol and other drugs are implicated in 40% of the crash deaths on Kansas roads. Over the past five years, the average proportion of fatality crashes attributable to such impairments was almost one-fourth of all fatality crashes.

 

The agency also reports that crashes involving at least one impaired driver are likely to be more severe than are other crashes.

Cherokee Nation to Offer COVID-19 Assistance to Area Tribal Members

The Cherokee Nation is reaching out to qualifying tribal members in the area to provide financial assistance due to COVID-19.  The tribal nation will be holding a sign-up event this Friday from 1 pm until 3 pm in South Coffeyville at the Native American Fellowship Community Center on Oklahoma Street.

 

Qualifying low-income tribal members age 62 and over can receive $1,200 in utility bill assistance.  The Cherokee Nation is also offering a $400 direct economic assistance stipend to any Cherokee elder 62 or older, regardless of income level.  Eligible tribal members can also sign up online and skip the drive-through event.  Elders who need assistance in filling out the on-line application can attend Friday. 

 

Applications must be received by 11:59 pm on August 28th. 

Governor Kelly Signs Order Reestablishing Temp Ban on Foreclosures, Evictions

 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed two new executive orders Monday, one of which temporarily prohibits mortgage foreclosures as well as residential or commercial evictions due to hardships caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

According to Kelly, Executive Order 20-61 is identical to a previous statewide mandate that had expired. The order prohibits "initiating any mortgage foreclosure or judicial proceedings, and any commercial or residential eviction efforts or judicial proceedings." Kelly said she would renew the order in two weeks if the federal government does not act on a national scale.

 

Executive Order 20-62 extends temporary relief efforts extended to trucking companies that have been delivering COVID-19 supplies. The order will continue until it rescinded, until September 14, 2020, or until the statewide State of Disaster Emergency expires, whichever is earlier.

 

Executive Order 20-61 can be viewed by following this link while Executive Order 20-62 can be seen here.

Caney Valley Resource Officer Program Renewed

 

A memorandum of understanding between the Caney Valley School District and the Washington County Sheriff's Office was approved by the Washington County Commissioners on Monday.

 

Sheriff Scott Owen said the MOU was for the renewal of the school resource officer program for the Caney Valley Elementary School in Ochelata. He said they have increased fees slightly to absorb the matching funds for FICA and Medicare on the payroll end. They have also increased the vehicle cost slightly to match the federal mileage on an approximated basis.

 

There is an opt-out clause for the Caney Valley School District and the Washington County Sheriff's Office should the need arise. Sheriff Owen added that this is a renewal of a great program that will place deputies in one of their local schools.

 

The agreement is effective until the end of the current school year.

11 Positive Cases During Move-in at PSU

 

Pittsburg State University tested 746 students for COVID-19 in the past week, with 11 positive cases. The students were tested because they planned to live in University Housing this fall. Part of the testing was done on early arrivals coming for band camp, athletics, sorority rush, and other activities last week. The majority of testing was done last weekend as part of the Move-In Day process.

 

PSU COVID-19 Case Manager Taylor Panczer says the tests were conducted via saliva samples and sent to a lab in Parsons for 24-hour results. Panczer says in addition to the 11 who tested positive, nine were deemed close contacts and 11 are pending results. Those who tested positive either returned home or moved off campus to alternative housing. The university is awaiting test results on some samples collected later in the weekend.

 

Canvassing Taking Place in Montgomery and Labette Counties

 

The Labette and Montgomery County Commissions got together Monday morning to canvass votes and determine final vote counts for two competitors in a close state senate race. Incumbent Dan Goddard and challenger Virgil Peck will await the results from the commissions, which both convened Monday.

 

KGGF's Jared Sleppy reports that the initial count from Montgomery County is 34 votes for Peck and 19 votes for Goddard, which widens Peck's lead in the county. KGGF's Matt Jordan reports that 23 votes were counted in Labette, with 20 going for Goddard and 3 going for Peck. After all provisional ballots have been counted, Peck holds a 23 vote lead.

 

"I'm very fortunate and very thrilled with the support that I have received from my neighbors and friends," Peck said. "The people that know me overwhelmingly supported me, and I am humbled by that."

 

A potential recount of all votes has already been filed in all three counties. Recounts in Montgomery and Labette Counties will depend on the result of the Neosho recount, 

SEK Game Warden Receives Transportation Safety Award

 

A local game warden has received a Transportation Safety award from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

 

Ross L. Uhrmacher will receive the Hero Award from KDOT for his efforts in the rescuing of an 88-year old man. Uhrmacher launched a SeaArk boat into the fast-flowing floodwaters of the Verdigris River to save the driver, who trapped in his almost submerged vehicle. Uhrmacher works for the Kansas Department of Wildlife Parks and Tourism in Chanute.

 

The Hero Award recognizes an individual who risked his or her own life for someone else when they happened upon a crash or while trying to prevent the likelihood of a crash in a one-time traffic safety-related incident. Uhrmacher's award, along with other award recipients, will be presented at the 26th Annual Transportation Safety Conference next April in Wichita.

Woman Injured in Single Vehicle Accident

 

A Humboldt woman was injured in a single-vehicle accident in Neosho County over the weekend.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 34-year-old Mary Beth Rose was driving a 2002 Mazda southbound on 600 Street when she left the road for an unknown reason. When trying to get back on the road, she over-corrected and went in the southbound ditch and overturned.

 

Rose was transported to the Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center for a possible injury. Her seat-belt was in use at the time of the incident.

Coffeyville Street Closing

 

The City of Coffeyville announced Friday afternoon that 1st Street at the railroad track will be closed beginning at 7am Monday. The closing is for a new build and repairs to the current intersection with the railroad track.

 

The closing will last until Friday at 5pm. A detour route will be signed at the location.

Junior Livestock Auction Set for Tonight at Interstate Fair and Rodeo

 

Over 100 animals will be on the block during the Junior Livestock Auction at the Interstate Fair and Rodeo this evening.  The Auction begins at 7:00pm in the Show Arena at Walther Johnson Park.  Tonight's auction will be the finale of the 2020 Interstate Fair and Rodeo.

 

A complete bill for tonight's auction is below.

 

Exhibitor Name    Parents Name    City State    Tag ID    Division

______________________________________________________________________

Pistol Tatum Todd and Laura Tatum Wann OK 1787 Junior Market Steer Grand Champion

Levi Hency Alan and Julie Hency Bluejacket OK 1630 Junior Market Steer Reserve Grand Champion

Simon Blum Martin and Cory Blum Copan OK Market Broiler Grand Champion

Lily Anderson Brian & Jennifer Anderson Caney KS Market Broiler Reserve Grand Champion

Jaci Falkenstien Rich and Melissa Falkenstien Oswego KS 1204 Junior Market Meat Goat Grand Champion

Izzy Lewis Jamie and Carrie Lewis Bartlesville OK 1547 Junior Market Meat Goat Reserve Grand Champion

Cameron Vail Shannon & Candy Vail Altamont KS 1059 Junior Market Barrow Grand Champion

Cord Dodson Jeremy & Cheri Dodson Liberty KS 64 Junior Market Barrow Reserve Grand Champion

Brenden Anderson Brian & Jennifer Anderson Caney KS 1400 Junior Market Lamb Grand Champion

Laramie Bruce Austin and Tiffany Bruce Caney KS 1319 Junior Market Meat Goats

Daniel Moody Nicholas and Katie Moody Nowata OK 1772 Junior Market Meat Goats

Riley Haver Jenna Haver Sedan KS 1602 Junior Market Meat Goats

Cameron Carr Darin and Dawn Carr Coffeyville KS 1017 Junior Market Meat Goats

Emily Lake Mike and Hiedi Lake Vinita OK 1664 Junior Market Meat Goats

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

Andrea Blum Martin & Cory Blum Copan OK 1516 Junior Market Meat Goats

Clint Harrington Ryan and Diana Harrington Nowata Ok 971 Junior Market Meat Goats

Tristan Stevens Ryan and Tanya Pennington Vinita OK 1680 Junior Market Meat Goats

Alyssa Dixon Jerry and Tina Dixon Mound Valley KS 2344 Junior Market Meat Goats

Ryleigh Ross Cody Ross Altamont KS 1086 Junior Market Meat Goats

Karly Wintjen Justin and Jennifer Wintjen Coffeyville KS 1206 Junior Market Meat Goats

Riley Waits Patrick and Jessica Waits Copan OK 1508 Junior Market Meat Goats

Cammie Dodson Jeremy & Cheri Dodson Liberty KS 73 Junior Market Meat Goats

Maci Moody Nicholas and Katie Moody Nowata OK 1773 Junior Market Meat Goats

Ty Wintjen Justin & Jennifer Wintjen Coffeyville KS 1207 Junior Market Meat Goats

Regan Edwards Kevin and Angela Edwards Cherryvale KS 1544 Junior Market Meat Goats

Dakota Pease Wayne & Stephanie Pease Chetopa KS 1011 Junior Market Meat Goats

Trinity Kuehn Keith & Lisa Kuehn Coffeyville KS 1457 Junior Market Meat Goats

Brenden Anderson Brian & Jennifer Anderson Caney KS 1313 Duroc-Junior Market Barrows

Delaney Pippin Andy & Dusty Herrenbruck South Coffeyville Ok 1776 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

Carson Collier Blake and Ashley Collier Delaware OK 1641 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Landry Layton Rowdy & Tiffany Layton Welch Ok 1571 Duroc-Junior Market Barrows

Kyla Taylor Justin & Brenda Taylor South Coffeyvile OK 1751 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Parker Midgett Kevin and Jonie Midgett Liberty KS 1075 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Addison Collier Blake and Ashley Collier Delaware OK 1642 Duroc-Junior Market Barrows

Jacob McVey Jason and Kelci McVey Independence KS 1329 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Sawyer Richardson Joe and Meredith Snedden Vinita OK 1583 Hampshire-Junior Market Barrows

Raleigh Bradshaw Kenton and Katie Bradshaw Welch OK 1259 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Piper Perkins Clint and Rachel Perkins Coffeyville KS 1535 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Lucas Layton Rowdy and Tiffany Layton Welch OK 1289 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Lily Anderson Brian & Jennifer Anderson Caney KS 1312 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Keaton Gilman Bobby & Becky Gilman Miami OK 1683 Duroc-Junior Market Barrows

Colton Moss Coty and Stephanie Moss Bluejacket OK 1674 Yorkshire-Junior Market Barrows

Justin Hilderbrand Terry and Melisa Hilderbrand Bartlett KS 1469 Hampshire-Junior Market Barrows

Summer McDaniel Shannon Brown Copan OK 1621 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

John Dixon Chad and Melissa Dixon Vinita OK 1610 Hampshire-Junior Market Barrows

Kinley Langworthy Justin and Joanne Langworthy Lenapah OK 1503 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Cash Pollock-Fisher Gary and Tina Fisher Vinita OK 1688 Chester White-Junior Market Barrows

Payton Carter Chad and Lindsey Carter Sedan KS 1445 Duroc-Junior Market Barrows

Aiden Midgett Kevin and Jonie Midgett Liberty KS 1072 Yorkshire-Junior Market Barrows

Conner Langworthy Dustin and Joanne Langworthy Lenapah OK 1502 Berkshire-Junior Market Barrows

Ty Wintjen Justin & Jennifer Wintjen Coffeyville KS 1209 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Pistol Tatum Todd and Laura Tatum Wann OK 1779 Hampshire-Junior Market Barrows

Taryn Earp Scott and Shelley Earp Welch Ok 1689 Chester White-Junior Market Barrows

Deziree Lee Travis & Erin Lee Coffeyville KS 1216 Yorkshire-Junior Market Barrows

McKinzie McAffrey Chad and Kim McAffrey Welch OK 1608 Crossbred-Junior Market Barrows

Andrea Blum Martin & Cory Blum Copan OK 1506 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Carter Nash Jared and Kimy Nash Parsons KS 1232 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Makenzie Floyd Cassie Jones Miami OK 1699 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Maddix Small Randy and Nicole Small Neodesha KS 1307 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

Trey Newby Craig & Julie Newby Coffeyville KS 97 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Owen Dean Edward and Alicia Dean Lenapah OK 1797 Shropshire-Junior Market Lambs

Ava George Matt and Tara George Oswego KS 1005 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Riley Waits Patrick and Jessica Waits Copan OK 1507 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Dexter Small Randy and Nicole Small Neodesha KS 1308 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Joel LelaCheur Aaron and Melissa LeLaCheur South Coffeyville OK 1756 Suffolk-Junior Market Lambs

Macy Slayter Chelsea Slayter Edna KS 1203 Natural-Junior Market Lambs

Kennedy Kramer Tessa Kramer Wann OK 1615 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Alyssa Dixon Jerry and Tina Dixon Mound Valley KS 2342 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Dakota Pease Wayne & Stephanie Pease Chetopa KS 1008 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Katie Zwahlen Jason & Sunny Zwahlen Oswego KS 1060 Suffolk-Junior Market Lambs

Colby Goins Darrel and Jennell Goins Vinita OK 1654 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Parker Buck Kyndell and Andrea Buck Delaware OK 1792 Shropshire-Junior Market Lambs

Nathan Dean Edward and Alicia Dean Lenapah OK 1796 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Hannah Kaiser Kevin and Angela Edwards Cherryvale KS 1523 Crossbred-Junior Market Lambs

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

Easton Ewing Adam and Kristi Ewing Liberty KS 1524 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Wyatt Maxey Justin and Chrissy Maxey Delaware OK 1529 Natural-Junior Market Lambs

Aubrie Lester Troy and Mandy Lester Welch OK 1280 Hampshire-Junior Market Lambs

Payton Carter Chad and Lindsey Carter Sedan KS 1427 Speckled Face-Junior Market Lambs

Addison Dick Derek and Tenae Dick Nowata OK 1509 Charolais-Junior Market Steers

Ani Rexwinkle Leann Rexwinkle and Steve Rexwinkle Coffeyville KS 1515 Maine Anjou-Junior Market Steers

Darla Fesmire Damon and Darcey Fesmire Bartlett KS 1041 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Lea Hency Alan and Julie Hency Bluejacket OK 1629 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Bodee West Dee and Vicki West Delaware OK 1775 Angus-Junior Market Steers

Malynna Vail Bryant and Terra Vail Bluejacket OK 1698 Simmental-Junior Market Steers

Landry Layton Rowdy & Tiffany Layton Welch OK 1570 Angus-Junior Market Steers

Blaine Smith Chris and Judy Smith Edna KS 1062 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Clint Harrington Ryan and Diana Harrington Nowata OK 962 All Other Breeds-Junior Market Steers

Justin Herlan Jon and Ruth Herlan Bluejacket OK 1256 Simmental-Junior Market Steers

Emma Lewis Jamie and Carrie Lewis Bartlesville OK 965 Simmental-Junior Market Steers

Exhibitor Name Parents Name City State Tag ID Division

Tucker Forth Tim and Jasey Forth South Coffeyville OK 457 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Sadie Moses Rebecca Moses Collinsville OK 1631 Charolais-Junior Market Steers

Ayla Hency Alan and Julie Hency Bluejacket OK 1627 Maine Anjou-Junior Market Steers

Kamryn Seaton Stephanie Seaton Bluejacket OK 1258 Chi-Junior Market Steers

Hadleigh O'Brien Zak & Cortney O'Brien South Coffeyville OK 1554 Angus-Junior Market Steers

Brenden Anderson Brian & Jennifer Anderson Caney KS 1321 Angus-Junior Market Steers

Blake Buckley Jennifer Buckley South Coffeyville OK 1759 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Seth Johnson Jeff Johnson Nowata OK 1633 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Travis Dick Derek and Tenae Dick Nowata OK 1510 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Kennedy Kramer Tessa Kramer Wann OK 1611 Charolais-Junior Market Steers

Sara Hency Alan and Julie Henry Bluejacket OK 1628 Crossbred-Junior Market Steers

Tanner Dickson Nathan Dickson and Lynn Rexwinkle Nowata OK 1083 All Other Breeds-Junior Market Steers

Two Arrested in Coffeyville for Forgery

 

Two arrested for forgery in Montgomery County. Earlier this week deputies arrested 31-year-old Allison Young on two counts of forgery. She was taken into custody at a bank in Coffeyville. Deputies and Investigators executed a search warrant on the vehicle driven by Young and located stolen property, an interview with Young lead to a second search warrant at a motel room in Coffeyville, where more stolen property was recovered. 29-year-old Brian Noble was taken into custody at the motel and is alleged to be the co-conspirator with Young in multiple thefts and burglaries in and around the area.

 

Sheriff Ron Wade says sometimes all it takes is one lead to solve multiple cases. Deputies and Investigators got a lead and with a lot of follow up, they were able to recover a large amount of stolen property, return it to the rightful owner and arrest the individuals involved.

Montgomery, Labette to Canvas Monday

 

The results of the Kansas 15th District Senate seat are still to close to call, as we wait for the votes to be canvassed by the county commissions. Senator Dan Goddard says Neosho County has already canvassed their votes.

 

Goddard says it was a very busy, tiring and hard-fought campaign.  The Challenger Virgil Peck does still lead in the race. With the two counties left to canvas, Peck held a substantial lead in Montgomery County while Goddard leads in Labette County.

Gas Prices Hold Steady Across the Nation, Kansas

 

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has held steady at $2.17, which is one cent less than a week ago, two cents less than a month ago and 47 cents lower than a year ago. Prices have held steady in Kansas as well.

 

According to AAA, Kansas prices currently sit at $1.96, the same as last week at the same time. Montgomery County is currently at $1.97 a gallon, while Labette County is five cents lower at $1.92 a gallon. Chautauqua County checked in with $1.96 a gallon.

 

Across the border in Oklahoma, the state average is $1.88. Washington County came in at $1.78 a gallon while Nowata County clocked in at $1.75 a gallon.

KDOT Opens Fourth Ramp at U.S. 160-169 Interchange

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) has opened the fourth ramp at the new U.S. 169/U.S. 160 interchange in Montgomery County. The ramp connects southbound U.S. 169 to westbound U.S. 160.

 

KDOT started construction in April 2019 to convert the intersection at the north junction to a grade-separated interchange. King’s Construction of Oskaloosa is the primary contractor on the $12 million project.

 

Drivers are reminded to slow down and use caution as the contractor completes work at the interchange. KDOT is deactivating the detour route on U.S. 400 and U.S. 75.

Chanute Woman Arrested for Possession of Drugs

 

A 23-year-old Chanute woman has been arrested and charged with multiple drug offenses.

 

Chanute police recently went out to a couple of bicyclists in the area of Third and Forest. After speaking with the individuals, it was learned that one of them had several warrants for their arrests out of another jurisdiction. Officers placed Madison Witchley under arrest for the warrants.

 

Officers located a metal locked box and obtained a search warrant to check its contents. During the search, officers located several items associated with illegal drugs. The charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and interference with a law enforcement officer were added to her arrest charges.

 

She was transported to the Neosho County Jail without incident.

 

Second Round of CARES Act Funding Open Next Week

 

Businesses will soon be able to apply for a total of more than $130 million in grants to serve those most affected by the pandemic and for companies that can expand broadband access in the state.

 

Information on SPARK economic development and connectivity grant programs can now be found online, with applications being accepted starting next Wednesday, August 19th.

 

Governor Laura Kelly said that the extra funds will provide immediate relief to the businesses that need it most and contribute to a more competitive Kansas economy. In addition to providing financial relief, grants will be available to businesses whose products and services will be needed in greater volume to help combat the virus and its effects. Funding is also being made available to expand broadband access both through infrastructure improvements and by partnerships with internet service providers to serve low-income households. These grants are funded through the Coronavirus Relief Fund of the federal CARES Act.

 

A list of the various grants and their applications are listed below:

 

  • Small Business Working Capital Grants
    Kansas businesses with fewer than 500 employees are eligible to apply for Small Business Working Capital grants. Funds can be used to pay working capital expenses such as payroll, rent, mortgage insurance, utilities, inventory, and more. Grants will be awarded on a rolling basis until funds are depleted.
     
  • Securing Local Food Systems Grants
    The Securing Local Food Systems grant program was created to support Kansas meat processing facilities, food processors, grocers, and food banks to address food for human consumption supply chain disruptions as a result of the COVID-19 public health emergency.
     
  • PPE Procurement Grants
    The PPE Procurement grant program will award businesses funds for the purchase of personal protective equipment (PPE), implementation of workplace redesigns, additional signage, new technology solutions for distance working, and other items to comply with COVID-19 public health guidelines on safely returning employees to work.
     
  • PPE Manufacturing Grants
    PPE Manufacturing grants will provide funding to manufacturers to reimburse certain costs to manufacture critically needed PPE. The grant funding will assist entities with creating new businesses while contributing to the fight against the current COVID-19 public health emergency.
     
  • COVID-19 Bioscience Product Development Acceleration Grants
    Kansas has a strong pipeline of bioscience-related companies developing SARS-CoV-2 diagnostic, therapeutic, and medical countermeasures. This grant program will accelerate commercialization and go-to-market strategies, allowing these Kansas companies to quickly deploy novel technology by optimizing value and reducing risk through informed decision making. 
     
  • Connectivity Emergency Response Grants
    The Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG) was created to address the increased need for connectivity in Kansas in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Proposed projects should improve connectivity to unserved and underserved areas of Kansas to address the needs of telework, telehealth, distance learning, and other remote business services.
     
  • Broadband Partnership Adoption Grants
    The Broadband Partnership Adoption Grant will provide support for low-income households by partnering with ISPs to leverage their existing adoption infrastructure and assure connectivity to as many Kansans as possible.
     
  • IT, Cybersecurity & IT Project Management Certification Training Grants
    To mitigate the job losses in Kansas as a result of COVID-19, the Kansas Department of Commerce is seeking a rapid response training program that will provide training, certificate testing, and job placement assistance in the areas of IT, cybersecurity, and IT project management.
     
  • Kansas Tech College Advanced Manufacturing Grants
    This program will support the needs of the advanced manufacturing industry in Kansas. The program will focus on reskilling/upskilling individuals affected by COVID-19 to meet economic sector needs in high-demand, high-wage occupations.

USD 445 Reports Two Positive Cases

 

Two USD 445 staff members have tested positive for the Coronavirus. According to Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll, a high school administrator and district office director tested positive for COVID-19.

 

Dr. Correll says while they believe the source came from outside of the community, they are taking all necessary precautions. These include quarantining any staff who were within 6 feet for 10 minutes or more and instituting their “deep cleaning” protocol for affected areas. They are in daily contact with the Montgomery County Health Department and Emergency Management, and at this time all individuals involved are doing well.

Goat Show Winners at Interstate Fair and Rodeo

 

Jaci Falkenstein won Grand Champion at Wednesday’s Market Goat Show at the Interstate Fair and Rodeo while Riley Haver won Grand Champion in the Commercial Doe Division.  Named Reserve Grand Champion was Izzy Lewis and the Reserve Gran/d Champion in the Commercial Doe Division was Alyssa Dixon.

 

On the schedule for today are the Bucket Calf Show, Market and Prospect Steer Show, Junior Heifer and Open Beef Show, and then the Poultry Show this evening.

Fort Scott Man Injured in Accident

 

A man was injured in a wreck on Wednesday afternoon in Bourbon County.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 23-year-old Darrell Chaney Jr. of Fort Scott was headed southbound on U.S. 69 when he rear-ended a semi-truck driven by 26-year-old Eric Moore of Humphreys, Missouri. The collision caused Chaney's vehicle to cross the median and came to rest in the northbound ditch.

 

Chaney was transported to Via Christi Hospital in Fort Scott with suspected minor injuries. Moore had no apparent injuries.

Missing Woman from Parsons

 

Parsons Police is looking for 26-year-old Lanette Marie Hinman, who was reported missing by family members. Lanette was last seen by family on August 8th in a 2010 White Ford Fusion with some front-end damage. She was seen with Lawrence Medlock from Wichita, Kansas. Medlock was arrested in Wichita and is currently being held in Sedgwick County detention center on unrelated charges. Parsons investigators are working with officials from Wichita and Sedgwick County to speak with Medlock and gain any information on her whereabouts. At this time there is no evidence that she is in danger. If anyone has information on Lanette Hinman's whereabouts, please notify Parson Police at (620) 421-7060.

Indy City Commission Agenda for 8-13

 

The Independence City Commission is holding a public hearing before potentially approving the 2021 Budget at its regular meeting tonight.

 

If approved, the 2021 Budget would allow for the expenditure of the city's budgeted funds, which totals just over $22 million. Areas included by the budget include the library, tourism, sanitation and more.

 

It'll be a busy day for the commission, with several other items and considerations to cover. Tonight's meeting will be held at 5:30 at the Veterans Room of Memorial Hall. You can find the full agenda here.

Schmidt Seeking Authority to Compensate Victims of Financial Fraud

 

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says federal funding should be made available to compensate senior citizens defrauded of their life savings.

 

In a bipartisan letter signed by 40 state and territory attorneys general, Schmidt asked Congress to expand the 1984 Victims of Crime Act to allow states to reimburse seniors for certain fraud losses. The provisions are contained in Senate Bill 3487, known as the Edith Shorougian Senior Victims of Fraud Compensation Act.

 

Current federal law provides for state-run victim compensation programs, which can help pay certain costs incurred by victims of violent crime through no fault of their own. The proposed federal legislation would expand that program to also assist certain senior victims of financial fraud.

 

The program is funded by penalties and fines paid by convicted criminals. The fund reimburses states for 60 percent of payments to victims of crimes, but only for certain eligible items such as medical bills, lost wages and funeral and burial expenses. Edith’s Bill also would make more funds available by directing fines and penalties and related funds from white collar prosecutions into the program.

Winners of Interstate Fair and Rodeo Sheep Show

 

The Interstate Fair and Rodeo Sheep Show had a good turn out this morning.  Winners hailed from Coffeyville, Caney, Bartlett, Oswego, Parsons, Sedan and Neodesha in Kansas and from Miami, Lenapah, Deleware, South Coffeyville and Copan in Okl;ahoma.  A complete list of winners can be found below. 

 

 

2020 Lamb Show Results

Champion Dorset – Trey Newby, Coffeyville, KS

Reserve Champion Dorset – Myla Blalock, Miami, OK

 

Champion Hampshire – Brenden Anderson, Caney, KS

Reserve Champion Hampshire – Andrea Blum, Copan, OK

 

Champion Shropshire – Owen Dean, Lenapah, OK

Reserve Champion Shropshire – Parker Buck, Delaware, OK

 

Champion Southdown- Daylyn Fesmire, Bartlett, KS

Reserve Champion Southdown – Payton Buck, Delaware, OK

 

Champion Suffolk – Joel LelaCheur, South Coffeyville, OK

Reserve Champion Suffolk – Katie Zwahlen, Oswego, KS

 

Champion Crossbred – Ava George, Oswego, KS

Reserve Champion Crossbred – Darla Fesmire, Bartlett, KS

 

Champion Speckle – Payton Carter, Sedan, KS

Reserve Champion Speckle – Kaden McCoy, Sedan, KS

 

Champion Natural – Darla Fesmire, Bartlett, KS

Reserve Champion Natural – Bodee West, Delaware, OK

 

Grand Champion – Brenda Anderson, Caney, KS

Reserve Grand Champion – Ava George, Oswego, KS

 

Grand Champion Wether Dam – Darla Fesmire, Bartlett, KS

Reserve Champion Wether Dam – Carter Nash, Parsons, KS

 

Champion Registered Ewe – Ava George, Oswego, KS

Reserve Champion Registered Ewe – Maddix Small, Neodesha, KS

 

KGGF Cited For Best Severe Weather Coverage in Kansas

 

For the second year in a row KGGF has been cited by the Kansas Association of Broadcasters as providing the top severe weather coverage in the state.  In an announcement made Wednesday the KAB awarded KGGF first place for severe weather coverage in Kansas. 

 

KGGF General Manager, John Leonard said that it’s gratifying to be recognized statewide for the team effort that KGGF puts forth in covering severe weather.  Other cities in the medium market category include Lawrence, Manhattan and Joplin.  This is the second year in a row that the station received first place in severe weather coverage from the KAB.  The award will officially be presented during the KAB’s annual convention in October.   

Meals on Wheels Updates

 

The Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging, which operates the Meals on Wheels program, has informed the public that due to the still-rising numbers of Coronavirus cases in the area, the dining rooms will be closed until further notice.

 

The SEKAAA is also looking for volunteers to deliver meals to homebound residents. The Executive Director of the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce Candi Westbrook explains the process of contactless meal delivery and how to volunteer.

 

For more information about this and other programs provided by the SEKAAA, click here.

Bridge Pier Repair Underway in Neosho County

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation has started a project to repair a damaged pier at the Neosho River Bridge on K-39 east of Chanute.

 

The contractor will build a causeway to the pier and all work will take place underneath the bridge. K-39 traffic will not be affected.

 

KDOT awarded the construction contract of just over $38,000 to B & B Bridge Company, LLC, of St. Paul. The bridge repair is expected to be finished in two weeks, weather permitting.

Sheep and Goats at Today's Interstate Fair and Rodeo

 

Several events are on tap for the Interstate Fair and Rodeo at Coffeyville’s Walter Johnson Park today.  The Goat Show is scheduled to get underway this afternoon at 4 with weigh-in scheduled to begin at 1:00. 

 

Those with Market Steer and Commercial Heifer entries should be at the Fairgrounds for weigh-in from 6 until 8:00 this evening.  Earlier today the Sheep Show was held at 9:00 this morning.

Coffeyville Historical Society Pushing Forward Despite Outbreak

 

Despite the COVID-19 outbreak, the Dalton Defenders & Coffeyville History Museum and the Brown Mansion are up and running once again.

 

Representatives of the Coffeyville Historical Society said they are seeing a steady stream of visitors to the two museums. Both locations were closed for two months as a safety measure to slow the spread of the virus. However, the museum and the mansion are open once again, albeit with the recommendation that visitors wear masks and practice social distancing. The Coffeyville Historical Society also recently received a grant totaling $8,240 from Humanities Kansas, an independent nonprofit out of Topeka. The money will go to covering monthly costs for the months that the museums were closed.

 

The Historical Society also has plans to paint the south side of the museum building on Death Alley. They will be working with the Field Kindley Art Department to offer the public the opportunity to paint their name or message on a brick. The cost for this venture will be split between the two parties.

Boil Water Advisory Issued for Montgomery County RWD 9

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for Montgomery County RWD 9, located in Montgomery County.

 

This advisory is not related to Covid-19.

 

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

• If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.

• Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water. • Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.

• Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

• Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled.

 

Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians. The advisory took effect on August 11, 2020, and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Interstate Fair and Rodeo Swine Show Results

 

Below are the results of today's Swine Show at the Interstate Fair and Rodeo in Coffeyville.

 

Champion York – Delaney Pippin, South Coffeyville, OK

Reserve Champion York – Colton Moss, Bluejacket, OK

 

Champion Berkshire – Conner Langworthy, Lenapah, OK

Reserve Champion Berkshire – Ayla Hency, Bluejacket, OK

 

Champion Duroc – Brenden Anderson, Caney, KS

Reserve Champion Duroc – Landry Layton, Welch, OK

 

Champion Hampshire – Sawyer Richardson, Vinita, OK

Reserve Champion Hampshire – Addison Collier, Delaware, OK

 

Champion Spot – Zoe Dixon, Vinita, OK

Reserve Champion Spot – Oakley Carter, Sedan, KS

 

Champion Chester White – Cask Pollock-Fisher, Vinita, OK

Reserve Champion Chester White – Taryn Earp, Welch, OK

 

Champion Crossbred – Cameron Vail, Altamont, KS

Reserve Champion Crossbred – Cord Dodson, Liberty, KS

 

 Grand Champion Market Barrow – Cameron Vail, Altamont, KS

Reserve Grand Champion Market Barrow – Cord Dodson, Liberty, KS

 

 

Grand Champion Purebred Gilt – Kinley Langworthy,

Lenapah, OK

Reserve Grand Champion Purebred Gilt – Gracey Tignarelli, Delaware, OK

 

Grand Champion Commercial Gilt – Lily Anderson, Caney, KS

Reserve Grand Champion Commercial Gilt – Kyla Taylor, South Coffeyville, OK

Crawford County Death Investigation

 

The Crawford County Sheriff's Office along with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation has launched an investigation after the remains of a body were discovered in western Crawford County.

 

According to the Sheriff's Office, an individual was out for a walk in the area of K-126 and 80th Street when they discovered the remains. Deputies were sent to the area where it was confirmed that it was indeed human skeletal remains. The KBI was notified and requested to assist with the case. The cause of death and identity are unknown at this time.

 

The remains were transported to a forensics lab in Kansas City for examination.

KBI 2019 Kansas Crime Report Index Released

 

Property crime in Kansas is on the decline, however, violent crimes rose slightly as the Kansas Bureau of Investigation has released the 2019 Kansas Crime Index Report. The report compiles crime statistics reported to the KBI by state and local law enforcement agencies across Kansas.

 

The report indicated that violent crime in Kansas increased by 2½% in 2019. A total of just over 12,500 violent crimes were reported in Kansas in the categories of murder, rape, robbery, and aggravated assault and battery. The violent crime rate is currently just over 17% above the 10-year average.

 

Total property crime offenses in Kansas declined by nearly 7%. Even motor vehicle theft, which has been on the rise for several years, declined statewide in 2019.

 

The crime report can be found below.

 

Nowata Commissioners Approve Several Items

 

The Nowata County Commissioners met Monday morning and approved several items. The sheriff’s office hired Hannah Miller as a jailer and dispatcher. The sheriff's office also received an anonymous donation of a wheelchair to be used in the Nowata County Jail.

Also, Jerome Gnatek of the Nowata County 911 Trust Authority spoke about the emergency dispatch services agreement with Coffeyville, Kansas. Gnatek informed the board that the Oklahoma Attorney General gave approval on the agreement. The board previously received approval from the Kansas Attorney general as well.

 

The plan was brought to the commissioners for approval in November 2019. All emergency agency head have voiced their support for the deal.

Public Hearing Aug. 24th for USD 445 20-21 Budget

 

USD 445 Coffeyville Schools reviewed their 2020-2021 budget at their most recent school board meeting. Assistant Superintendent Michael Speer says they aren't budgeting around COVID-19, they are planning the budget like normal.

 

The board voted to publish the budget for the public to review. There will be a special meeting on August 24th at 5:00pm at the board office for a public hearing over the budget, and then the board will vote to adopt the budget.

First COVID Related Death in Labette County

 

The Labette County Health Department has confirmed the first known death of COVID-19 in the county. The patient tested positive and was admitted to the hospital on August 2nd. The patient was a male in his 70's with underlying health conditions. Contact Investigations have been completed and any identified close contacts have been quarantined at home and are being monitored for symptoms by the health department staff.

 

If you are experiencing symptoms such as a fever greater than 100.4, cough or difficulty breathing, headache, chills, body aches, sore throat, nausea, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, or congestion, or have had exposure to a positive COVID-19 individual call your healthcare provider immediately.

Caney Officer Saves Fellow Officers Life

 

A Caney Police Officer saves the life of a fellow officer at a police academy. Officer Joe Elliott attended the Kansas Law Enforcement Academy and while in the cafeteria an officer from the Hutchinson Police Department began to choke on food. The officer turned purple due to a lack of air. Officer Elliott recognized that the fellow officer was in serious trouble and preformed a Heimlich maneuver on the officer. As a result of Officer Elliott's quick actions, the officer's airway was cleared and he was able to breathe again.

 

Caney Police Chief Kevin Kitterman says they are extremely proud of Officer Elliot's quick life-saving actions and are glad he is a member of their team.

Passing Lane Survey on U.S. 400

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans to begin a field survey on Tuesday, Aug. 11, for a proposed improvement that would add passing lanes to both sides of U.S. 400 in Cherokee County.

 

The location being surveyed starts about 4 miles east of the U.S. 400/K-7 junction and continues east for nearly 2½ miles. The survey length is approximately 400 feet on the existing highway alignment.

 

KDOT expects the survey to last one week, weather permitting.

Man Arrested For Multiple Drug Offenses

 

A 21-year old man was arrested early this morning on multiple drug charges.

 

At about 1:40 am, Chanute police responded to the area of 1500 West Main Street for a call of a burglary in progress. As officers arrived on the scene they came in contact with Steven C. Fairbanks inside the residence. While in the process of investigation, and with the assistance of CPD K9, a search warrant was issued for the residence and a Chevrolet truck parked outside.

 

Officers arrested Fairbanks for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, interference with a law enforcement officer, and possession of drug paraphernalia. Fairbanks was transported to the Neosho County Jail without incident. The 2004 Chevy Silverado was seized pending civil forfeiture action.

MCWC Receives Grant

 

The Montgomery County Wellness Coalition has been awarded a Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways Grant to assist in addressing problems the county's citizens face.

 

The grant, which was awarded in partnership with Grow Labette in Labette County, will bring in up to $500,000 geared toward health and wellness. Montgomery County is 101st out of 104 counties in health outcomes for the state of Kansas, according to county health rankings and roadmaps. Citizens of the county are often dying before the age of 75 and report more poor health days and good health days. 

 

Marci Roberts of the Montgomery County Wellness Coalition told the county commission Monday that the funding is vital to attacking the issues that the communities in the county face

 

Over the next 6 months, an action committee will be formed to select packages and pathways to take to help get people involved in their own wellness. Roberts said their ultimate goal is to make the healthy choice, the easy choice.

 

The grant received by the Wellness Coalition is made up of two parts, one of which will provide two part-time jobs split between Montgomery and Labette Counties.

Coffeyville Board of Education Meeting Tonight

 

The Coffeyville Board of Education will consider publishing the 2020-21 budget at its regularly scheduled meeting tonight.

 

The board will receive information on the budget from the business manager and clerk of the board before following through on Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll's recommendation to publish it. The board will also consider approving Correll's recommendation to schedule a special meeting for August 24th. 

 

Tonight's meeting will be held at 5 p.m. at the Education Center.

Over $230,000 Given to Crime Victims in Kansas

 

The Kansas Crime Victims Compensation Board awarded financial assistance to 207 victims of violent crime at its August meeting. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says awards were made in 96 new cases. Additional expenses were paid in 111 previously submitted cases. The awards totaled $236,375.14.

 

The state’s Crime Victims Compensation Board determines claims that are eligible for payment and how much money will be awarded to each claimant. Awards are limited to a maximum total amount of $25,000 with limitations of $5,000 for funeral expenses, $5,000 for outpatient mental health counseling, $10,000 for inpatient mental health treatment and $1,500 for grief counseling for family survivors of homicide victims. A portion of assessed court costs and fines, inmate wages, parole fees and restitution paid by convicted offenders provides funding to the program.

 

Another Week of High Recoveries in Montgomery County

 

Only two new cases of COVID-19 in Montgomery County from Wednesday to Friday as the first full week of August came to an end. According to the Montgomery County Health Department, there was another week of high recovery numbers as 27 people recovered from the Coronavirus from July 31st to August 7th. There are currently 28 active cases in the county, which is down from 53, and since March there have been a total of 166 cases.

 

In Labette County, they say 8 new cases from Wednesday to Friday and 5 recoveries in the same amount of time. Currently, there are 20 active cases in Labette County and since March there has been 126. Statewide there were 921 new cases and 12 new deaths from Wednesday to Friday.

Parsons USD 503 Announces Start Date, Learning Options

 

The USD 503 Board of Education in Parsons has announced a plan to delay the opening of schools to September 8th and multiple instruction options for students.

 

For grades Pre-K-5, the first option for students will be in-person instruction with core class sized to be reduced to allow social distancing. The use of face coverings and social distancing will be expected. The second option will be remote learning. Online daily attendance will be mandatory during school hours, students must maintain a remote daily log documenting 360 minutes of daily learning activity and students will be allowed to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities.

 

For grades 6-12, the two options for Pre-K-5 will be available but a third option called Virtual Viking will be available. Students will be able to take their coursework online using a self-paced program. A minimum of 25 hours of the program must be taken a week, students will be required to stay in the program for the entire school year and students will not be able to participate in athletics and extracurricular activities.

Pittsburg Juvenile Arrested for Felony Burglary

 

A 16-year-old Pittsburg juvenile was arrested early Thursday morning a variety of charges including felony burglary.

 

At approximately 3:15 AM, Pittsburg police responded to a report of suspicious activity in the 1100 block of South Smelter Street. A resident in that area reported seeing their neighbor’s vehicle door being open, and further investigation showed that multiple items had been stolen from the interior of this vehicle.

 

Officers began checking the area and observed a male subject running into a cemetery and attempt to hide. Officers located the suspect, who was found to be in possession of several items of possible stolen property. Officers found that eleven additional motor vehicles in the area had also been burglarized.

 

The juvenile suspect was taken into custody and brought to the police station for additional processing on charges for numerous counts of felony burglary to a motor vehicle, theft, and criminal trespassing.

Caney Police to Post Active Warrants on Facebook

 

The City of Caney’s attorney has given the Caney Police Department the go-ahead to publish the names of people the Caney Police Department currently has warrants on.

 

According to the CPD, they are in the process of reviewing how they would like to proceed with the project. Chief Kevin Kitterman said those who have an active warrant should go to Caney City Hall and pay their ticket before their name is published. He said it should come as no surprise since the court clerk sends out notices to those with active warrants. The names will be published on Facebook as part of "Warrant Wednesday."

 

The Caney Police Department added that the city court only issues warrants as a last resort, due to someone not showing up for court, or not paying their fines. A driver's license can also be suspended if fines are not paid or if someone does not show up for court. You can find the original post from the CPD on Facebook here.

Man Found Dead at Pittsburg RV Park

 

Pittsburg Police are currently investigating a death after a man was found Wednesday morning at a Pittsburg RV park.

 

At around 6:30 Wednesday morning, the Pittsburg Police Department was dispatched to the Pittsburg Park and Recreation RV Park in reference to an unresponsive man. Officers arrived on the scene where they discovered a male subject who appeared to have suffered a gunshot wound. The subject was pronounced deceased at the scene. The circumstances surrounding the shooting are unknown at this point.

 

Anyone having information related to this incident is urged to contact the Pittsburg Police Department at 620-231-1700. Callers may remain anonymous.

Juvenile Arrested for Burglary, Second Juvenile Still Free

 

One juvenile was arrested and another remains on the run after a break-in at a Parsons business Wednesday morning.

 

At around 6:00 am, the Parsons Police Department was notified about a business in the 2500 block of Main Street with a broken window. Responding officers arrived at the business and witnessed an individual in the store. Officers took a male juvenile suspect into custody.

 

The owner of the store later reviewed video surveillance and reported that two suspects broke into the store and that there was a missing computer along with the broken window.

 

The juvenile suspect will be facing charges of Burglary, Theft, and Criminal Damage through the Labette County Attorney Office. Parsons Police are still reviewing leads on the second suspect that was not located at the time of the burglary and arrest.

 

If anyone has any further information on this incident, contact the Parsons Police Department at 620-421-7060.

Dalton Defenders Days Canceled

 

The 2020 Dalton Defender's Days Festival has been canceled. According to Board President Linda Frazier due to the inability to social distance during the re-enactment, it is recommended that they cancel the entire festival, since the re-enactment is the main reason for the event.

 

With the possibility of Governor Laura Kelly returning the state to Stage 2 of her reopening plan and for the festival to be completely planned and paid for would be a financial burden, since this festival is a donation only event. Frazier says this has been an extremely hard decision for the group as they enjoy honoring the fallen Defenders with this festival.

Kansas AG Schmidt Pushing for Easier Path to License Reinstatement

 

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is pushing for Congress to support states that help low-income Americans get their licenses reinstated after suspensions for reasons other than improper driving.

 

Schmidt, along with 23 other attorneys general, wrote in a letter to Congress that claimed 40 percent of all driver’s license suspensions in the United States are issued for conduct other than improper driving. Many licenses are suspended for failure to pay unrelated fines and fees, which results in millions of Americans being unable lawfully to drive.

 

The attorneys general urged passage of the Driving for Opportunity Act, a bipartisan proposal to establish a federal grant under the Byrne JAG program to make available additional funding for states that repeal these suspension laws. The added funds could be used to defray the costs of reinstating licenses.

 

 

Nearly a dozen states have ended the practice of suspending driver’s licenses for unpaid fines and fees. Legislation mirroring the Driving for Opportunity Act was introduced in the Kansas House but failed to advance during the 2020 session.

COVID-19 Update For August 6th

 

Montgomery County saw 10 new cases of COVID-19 on Wednesday, bringing its total to 162 since March. There are 51 active cases in the county. Recoveries will be added in the next update as they are given every Friday.

 

Labette County added 11 new positive cases of COVID-19 bringing its total to 118. Six of those 11 cases were related to one family, and one of the new cases was already in quarantine due to contact with another positive case. Recoveries in Labette now total 101, and there are 47 currently in quarantine. 

 

Statewide, the KDHE is reporting 29,717 cases, 1,821 hospitalizations, and 368 deaths.

Ron Wade Thankful for Support

 

After being appointed as the Montgomery County Sheriff in February, Ron Wade defeated his opponent Chris Williams with 60.5% of the vote. Sheriff Wade says the support was overwhelming and he was grateful for all the people that came out to vote.

 

Sheriff Wade says there had been some uncertainty in the sheriff's office with the changes they've seen over the last year.  Sheriff Wade says he doesn't have any plans to make any changes and that Richard George will continue to serve as his undersheriff.

 

Former Labette County Sheriff Found Dead

 

A former Labette County Sheriff was found dead in his late mother's home Monday afternoon just north of Parsons.

 

An acquaintance found 54-year-old Robert Sims in the home and called for an ambulance but Sims was pronounced dead. No foul play is suspected in Sims’ death but his body was sent for an autopsy.

 

Sims served more than 20 years with the Labette County Sheriff’s Office. Sims was tabbed to complete former Sheriff William Blundell’s unexpired term in 2011 and won the 2012 primary election. Sims ran for re-election in 2016 and lost to current Sheriff Darren Eichinger.

 

Woman Arrested for Possession

 

Chanute police arrested a 25-year old woman late Tuesday night for multiple drug possession charges.

 

Officers were dispatched to a 1999 Ford Taurus in the 600 block of South Plummer. After a brief investigation, a drug-sniffing dog was brought in and officers obtained a search warrant. During the search, officers located items associated with illegal drugs. Isabella N. Short was transported to the Neosho County Jail for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

The vehicle was seized pending civil forfeiture action.

15th District Senate Race too Close to Call

 

Seventy-eight votes separate the two candidates for the 15th District seat in the Kansas State Senate.  Incumbent Dan Goddard currently trails Challenger Virgil Peck, 49.6% to 50.4%. Peck says it is a good feeling to be in the lead, but he knows that can all change.

 

Senator Goddard says the voter turnout was better than the last election, so he appreciates everyone who came out to vote or voted by mail.

 

Peck saw his slim lead on election night grow slightly after advanced ballots that arrived today were counted.  There are still 74 provisional ballots left to be counted in Montgomery County alone, so this race is still up in the air.

Provisional Ballots Explained

 

Tuesday's Kansas primaries have come and gone, but there are still a few ballots left to count. With some races too close to call after the initial voting, the race might possibly come down to provisional ballots.

 

These ballots are kept separate from other ballots and reviewed after the election. These ballots can be rejected if the voter did not provide additional information, an updated signature, or an additional photocopy upon request by the county election officer, or if the information, signature, or photocopy is inconsistent with the information on the voter registration list.

 

Montgomery County Clerk Charlotte Scott-Schmidt said those who submitted provisional ballots have until August 15th to show their photo identification. A final decision on those ballots will be made by the canvassing board, if necessary, on August 17th.

 

Kansas Senate and Congressional Primary Results

 

The Kansas Senate, District 15 race is still too close to call, but with only provisional and advance ballots to be counted, Virgil Peck has a narrow lead over the incumbent, Dan Goddard.  The vote count difference at the moment is just 41 votes, with 50.2% for Peck and 49.8% for Goddard. There are 74 provisional ballots left to be counted in Montgomery County alone, as well as advance ballots postmarked for Tuesday, leaving the race up in the air until those can be counted.

 

In the national races, Republican Roger Marshall will face Democrat Barbara Bollier in the November election for the seat being vacated by the long time Senator Pat Roberts.  In Tuesday's primary, Bollier handily defeated Robert Tillman 86% to 14% for the Democratic nomination, while in the crowded Republican field, Marshall defeated Kris Kobach 39% to 26%.

 

In the 2nd District U.S. House race, Democrat Michele De La Isla, who defeated James Windholz after taking 75 percent of the vote, will face Republican Jake LaTurner in November.  LaTurner defeated incumbent Steve Watkins in Tuesday’s primary with 49 percent of the vote. Watkins received 34 percent of the vote, and Dennis Taylor finished a distant third place with 16 percent.

Primary Results Chautauqua, Labette and Wilson Counties

 

In primary results from Labette County, Cole Proehl defeated Bill Hogelin in the Republican Primary race for the Labette County Commission 3rd District 56% to 44%.

 

In Wilson County, John Gillett defeated Larry Markle 63% to 37% for County Attorney.  In the Wilson County Sheriff’s race, Jack Lucke defeated Matt Norton 59% to 41%. In Chautauqua County, Rebecca Stewart defeated Robert Lattin for the District 14 magistrate judge position with 80.2% of the vote.

 

 

EDIT: The original version of this story had Hogelin defeating Proehl we have corrected this.

Montgomery County Primary Election Results

 

With only some advance ballots and provisional ballots left to be counted, several races have been decided in Montgomery County.

 

In the Montgomery County Sheriff’s race, incumbent Ron Wade defeated challenger Chris Williams with 60.5% of the vote to Williams' 39.5%.

 

In the Montgomery County Commission, District 3 race Mike Cordray defeated Gene Tucker 55% to 45%.  In the District 2 race, incumbent Larry McManus holds a 70 vote lead over Nick McCollum.

Crawford Co. Recovery Task Force Makes Strides

 

The Crawford County Recovery Task Force has made strides in creating a coordinated approach when it comes to the safe reopening and recovery of the county’s communities and their economies. The group has been formally recognized by the Crawford County Commission as an advisory body and has been meeting weekly since May via Zoom. In the past week, its four committees have made measurable progress, according to Co-Chairs Shawn Naccarato and Jay Byers.

 

The task force is comprised of stakeholders from the Pittsburg and Girard Area Chamber of Commerce, Pittsburg State University, Pittsburg’s Small Business Development Center, the Kansas State Department of Commerce, the cities of Arma, Frontenac, Girard, and Pittsburg, the Pittsburg Community School District, the Crawford County Convention & Visitor Bureau, local hospitals, the Crawford County Commission, and Crawford County Public Health. 

Kansas AG Urges Action to Increase Affordability of Remdesivir

 

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt urged federal agencies to exercise special legal authority to increase the availability of Remdesivir, a drug showing results in reducing hospitalization and mortality from COVID-19.

 

Schmidt, along with a bipartisan coalition of 33 other state and territory attorneys general, requested the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, National Institutes of Health and Food and Drug Administration use their authority under a 40-year-old federal statute to prevent manufacturing bottlenecks and ensure that Americans can afford the drug and have reasonable access to a sufficient supply. The statute was enacted in 1980 through legislation sponsored by then-U.S. Senator Bob Dole. Schmidt says we are in unsettled times, and Americans must be assured of meaningful access to remedies that can save lives.

Multiple School Administrators Put Into Quarantine

 

Eleven Chanute USD 413 school administrators are in quarantine after several tested positive for COVID-19 after they returning from a leadership retreat.

 

Staff members and community partners at USD 413 learned on Friday that at least three people on the “Building/District leadership team” had COVID-19. On Monday, three more people who were on the retreat had tested positive for COVID-19, bringing the total to six. The symptoms for those infected ranges from minor to severe and one person is in the ICU.

 

USD 413 has said as of right now this does not change their opening date of August 24th for students but it is still a very fluid situation. The district has scheduled a webinar for tonight at 5:30 that will be streamed on their Facebook page to provide updates and information for the new school year.

Kansas Primaries Today

 

Kansas voters will take to the polls all throughout today for primary elections. There are two locations in Coffeyville to vote, with your voting location decided by your precinct. Voters will either head to Grace Fellowship Church at 2455 Woodland Ave. or the Senior Citizens Center at 601 S. Walnut. Below is a list of precincts and where that area will vote today. In addition, you can find a precinct map here.

 

Precinct Voting Location
First Precinct Senior Citizens Center
Second Precinct Senior Citizens Center
Third Precinct Senior Citizens Center
Fourth Precinct Grace Fellowship Church
Fifth Precinct Grace Fellowship Church
Sixth Precinct Grace Fellowship Church
Seventh Precinct Senior Citizens Center
Eighth Precinct Senior Citizens Center
Ninth Precinct Senior Citizens Center
10th Precinct Senior Citizens Center
11th Precinct Grace Fellowship Church
12th Precinct Grace Fellowship Church
13th Precinct Grace Fellowship Church

Kansas Secretary of State Projects Turnout For Primary Election

 

Kansas Secretary of State, Scott Schwab predicts voter turnout for tomorrow’s primary election at 27%.  Schwab says those figures are based on historical numbers, the number of tight races and the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Due to the pandemic mail-in ballots are expected to play a bigger role than usual in the election.  As of Friday 314,788 mail ballots have been sent to Kansas voters com pared to 51,211 for the 2018 election.  In addition, of the ballots already mailed out 159, 012 have already been returned compared to 26,917 in 2018. 

U.S. House Candidate Jake LaTurner Discusses Multiple Topics

 

Current Kansas State Treasurer and U.S. House candidate Jake LaTurner called into KGGF Radio and discussed a wide range of topics concerning the upcoming primary election that is being held tomorrow (today). LaTurner was asked if elected, what would be a few of the important issues he would like to take up while in the house.

 

LaTurner was also asked what did he think was the biggest difference between himself and the incumbent Steve Watkins.

 

LaTurner went on to say that southeast Kansas is home to him and he wants to see everybody to get out and vote. The primary election will be held tomorrow (today) and polls will be open from 7am-7pm.

Chanute Woman Arrested For Disorderly Conduct, Battery

 

A Chanute woman was placed under arrest over the weekend for a variety of crimes including disorderly conduct.

 

Chanute police were dispatched to the area of the 700 block of North Forest for a report of a disturbance involving a female outside a residence yelling and screaming. Upon officer's arrival, they noticed an adult female, 21-year-old Jamie Kaylyn Audra Shrouds, in the front yard screaming. Officers tried talking with Jamie and defuse the situation, but she continued yelling and screaming, causing some of the neighbors to come outside.

 

While the officers were trying to figure out what had taken place, Shrouds got into her vehicle and proceeded to drive away with two young children inside. Officers were able to get her stopped and placed her under arrest. During the arrest, Shrouds started to resist the officers as they were placing her in handcuffs. Officers called EMS to the scene to evaluate Shrouds medically and who was then transported to the Neosho County Jail.

 

Shrouds was charged with disorderly conduct, battery on a law enforcement officer, and interference with a law enforcement officer without incident. The children were released to a family member and were not injured during the incident.

Active Cases Decrease in Montgomery and Labette

 

As July came to an end both Montgomery and Labette County saw more recoveries than new cases of COVID-19. According to the Montgomery County Health Department, they have 7 new cases, which puts them at 41 active and 152 total since March. The county saw 37 people recovery from Coronavirus from July 24th to July 31st, as the county releases recoveries every Friday.

 

In Labette County, they have 3 new cases, which puts them at 12 active and 107 total since March. There is currently one person hospitalized due to COVID-19 and 10 people recovered from July 28th to July 31st.

 

Statewide there were 1,064 new cases reported over the weekend as well as 7 deaths.

Montgomery County Commissioners Meeting for 8-3

 

The Montgomery County Commission received a COVID-19 update and approved a few bids at its regularly scheduled meeting on Monday.

 

Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson explained to the commission why the official number of COVID-19 cases Montgomery County numbers produced by his department often differ from KDHE numbers. Whitson said that his department produces numbers every day compared to the KDHE, which only shares numbers every other day. As of August 1st, the county has 152 positive cases and 41 active cases.

 

Also in attendance was Public Works Coordinator Jim Wright, who requested that the commission approve bids for the 2020 Paint Striping Program and a service bed for the new Ram truck for Special Bridge. The commission approved both.

 

As always, the commission will meet again next Monday in the lower level of the judicial center.

U.S. Census Continues Encouraging Responses

 

Seven months into 2020, the U.S. Bureau is still looking for as many responses as it can get. The Census Bureau recently announced it will begin emailing homes in low-response areas to encourage them to fill out the short response form.

 

To ensure that the email you receive is legitimate, make sure that the email message originates from 2020census@subscriptions.census.gov invites people to respond online at 2020census.gov.

 

In addition, Kansas has already started this non-response follow up. Census takers will go door-to-door and have people complete the census that way.

CCC Open to Public Once Again

 

Starting today, Coffeyville Community College is once again open to the public. All offices will be open to pick up student IDs for non-resident students and enrollment. Senior Director of Student Services Yvonne Hull says there are still a few safety precautions involved but everything is ready to go.

 

Residence halls for incoming CCC students open this weekend but it will be slightly different than years past.

 

Classes for the Fall semester begin on August 11th.

USD 445 Board of Education Meeting Wednesday

 

The USD 445 Board of Education will have a lengthy work session ahead of it when it meets for a regularly scheduled meeting on Wednesday. A couple of items have been placed on the agenda for action, including a recommendation by Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll to purchase HVAC and photohydroionization (PHI) air purification units.

 

At about 11:45 am, the board will dismiss to relocate to the Community Elementary School Multipurpose Room for its work session. The board will discuss a variety of topics including academic goals for students ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade.

 

The meeting will begin at 11:00 am at Community Elementary. The board will meet once again on August 10th at 5 pm in the Education Center.

USD 446 Reports Positive COVID-19 Test

 

USD 446 in Independence has reported that a participant in its voluntary summer weights and conditioning program has tested positive for COVID-19. Following the positive test, ten other participants were identified as "close contacts" and were told of the need to quarantine on Sunday. 

 

Superintendent Rusty Arnold announced in a Facebook post that all spaces and equipment utilized by the program have been deep cleaned and disinfected per the district's safety protocols. USD 446 is set to open its doors to students on August 19th.

Montgomery County Commission Meeting for August 3rd

 

The Montgomery County Commissioners will meet for a budget work session before they meet for their regular meeting Monday morning. Commissioners will meet at 8:00 am before beginning their regularly scheduled meeting at 9:00. In addition to signing the Neighborhood revitalization agreement, they are also expected to hear updates from county appraiser Diana Carter and public works coordinator Jim Wright. Both the work session and regular commission meeting will be held in the lower level of the judicial center.

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