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Local News Archives for 2020-10

Search for Galena Woman Turns Out to be a Misunderstanding

 

The Galena Police Department was dispatched near 19th and Galena Avenue early Thursday evening where a woman exited her vehicle and frantically ran into the woods.

 

Galena PD and Cherokee County Sheriff Deputies began searching for the woman. At the time of the incident, it was unclear why the woman had left her vehicle. After a 90 minute search, she was found in another vehicle and she revealed that she was looking for her dog. The woman was identified as Daisy Anderson and both she and her pet are both safe.

Seventy Percent of Kansans Expected to Vote This Election

 

Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab has predicted that 70 percent of all Kansas voters will turn out to cast their ballots for the 2020 general elction.

 

As of Thursday, there have been 506,767 advance by mail ballots sent to Kansas voters. Comparatively, 202,138 advance by mail ballots were mailed during the 2016 general election. Of those ballots sent, 346,489 have been returned to local election offices in 2020, compared to just 125,5444 ballots returned in the 2016 general election. According to unofficial numbers cited by the Secretary of State's office, there are 1.9 million registered voters in Kansas.

 

Voters planning to cast their ballots in advance have until noon next Monday to do so.

Montgomery County Updated COVID Numbers

 

There are currently 106 active COVID-19 cases in Montgomery County, according to the Montgomery County Health Department and the Montgomery County Office of Emergency Management.

 

As of a report from Thursday, there have been a total of 703 cases of the disease since the pandemic began back in March. In the state of Kansas, there have been 82,045 total cases of the coronavirus.

 

In a Facebook post, the health department stated that they are unable to get updated numbers frequently to the public, but they will continue to post the updated numbers occasionally as time allows.

Man Has Mental Episode at Caney City Hall


A man had a mental episode at Caney City Hall Tuesday, according to Caney Police Chief Kevin Kitterman.

 

The man attempted to break into both the police and city clerk's entry doors which were locked. He then went to the city clerk's customer service counter and grabbed some items from inside and threw them in front of the building.

 

An officer, who was in the building at the time, then approached the man who was speaking incoherently. After talking to him for a brief period, he put the man in handcuffs for everyone's safety. 
 

He was then taken to a local mental health facility, but they refused to evaluate him. 
 

After this, he was picked up by a group of the man's friends and taken to a treatment facility in Oklahoma.

KBI: Victim of Reported Officer-Involved Shooting in Montgomery County Died of Self-Inflicted Gunshot Wound

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says that the victim of what was reported as an officer-involved shooting in Montgomery County last week actually died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

 

In an update released by the KBI todaythe agency says that the autopsy of 32-year-old Wesley Jordan of Hot Springs, Arkansas indicated Wesley died of a self-inflicted gunshot which is consistent with investigative findings.

 

The incident took place last Friday afternoon south of Independence on the State Lake Road west of 10th Street.  In today’s statement, the KBI said the investigation is still on-going, and once it’s concluded the findings will be turned over to the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office.

Nine Tested Positive, Isolation and Quarantine Stable at PSU

 

Nine more students tested positive for COVID-19 according to the weekly numbers released by Pittsburg State University.

 

In the seven days leading up to yesterday, the Bryant Student Health Center tested 45 students. Of those, nine tested positive. Isolation and quarantine numbers remain relatively stable at 17 and 50, respectively.

 

Among faculty and staff, no cases were reported in the past week. One faculty/staff member is currently in isolation. Six are in quarantine due to close contact with an infected person.

 

The Bryant Student Health Center also administered tests to 11 athletes, with no positives. Testing for the Saturday football game continues for all players, coaches, crew, and staff who will be on the field during the game.

Pole Hit and Run in Galena

 

Galena Police Department's assistance was needed at 21st and Bartlett after a hit and run on a powerline pole late Wednesday evening.

 

Liberty Utilities in Joplin, MO helped with the incident to repair the broken powerline which ended up getting fixed early Thursday morning.

 

21st and Bartlett was temporarily closed during the time of the repairs with 23rd and Wood being the quickest detour, but the road has since been reopened.

St. Paul Woman Waives Hearing

 

A 30-year-old woman accused of striking and killing her boyfriend with her car in April waived her right to a preliminary hearing.

 

Tiffany Jakee is charged in relation to the events on April 1st that killed her boyfriend, 30-year-old William Alex Treiber. She is charged with first-degree murder, failing to stop at an accident involving death or personal injury, two counts of aggravated endangering a child, domestic battery, and driving under the influence.

 

Jakee was reportedly driving southbound on U.S. 59 just south of U.S. 400. She passed a vehicle in a no-passing zone and then drove onto the northbound shoulder and struck Treiber, who was walking south. Treiber was pronounced dead at the scene. Jakee left the scene and was stopped a short distance later and arrested. Her blood-alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit in Kansas.

 

She could receive up to life in prison if convicted on the murder charge.

CVR Meets with Community Concerning Expansion Plans

 

Officials with CVR Energy met with members of the Coffeyville community last night to talk about their expansion plans and listen to the concerns of citizens.  The company has plans to build a 150,000 square foot facility to house administrative offices, a warehouse, and maintenance shops between First and Second Streets.  The project will also create a buffer zone for the facility from the alley between Third and Fourth Streets north to the refinery and east and west from Maple Street to Sunflower.

 

A number of citizens expressed concerns about the location of the buffer zone, the effect on property values on the east side, and what would happen to people displaced by the project.  Vice President and Facility General Manager of Coffeyville Refinery, Brent Traxel said the meeting was to hear the community’s concerns and look at how they can move forward,

 

According to the senior project manager, Sterling Vance the company hopes to start on the project after the first of the year and complete it by sometime in 2022.

Marshall Visits Coffeyville One Last Time Before Election

 

U.S. Senate Candidate Dr. Roger Marshall stopped by Coffeyville as apart of his final swing through Kansas before the election on Tuesday. Speaking to those in attendance, Dr. Marshall says it really comes down to people coming out to vote.

 

Dr. Marshall, who was wearing an NRA Lifetime Member jacket, says he is running to protect the constitutional rights of the people.  Dr. Marshall before coming to Coffeyville made stops in Columbus and Baxter Springs and wrapped up his tour for the day in Sedan.

Man Arrested on Multiple Felony Charges

 

A 28-year-old Parsons man has been arrested for a laundry list of charges including domestic battery.

 

Parsons Police were called to Prairie Village Apartments for a report of an argument with a weapon involved. Officers spoke to a witness at the scene who denied anything had happened. Officers left the apartment complex only to be called back a short time later and talked to another woman at the apartment complex.

 

After an investigation, it was discovered that a woman was forcefully taken from the laundry room back to an apartment by a man with a gun. The suspect allegedly used the firearm to hit the woman in the head and then grabbed her around the neck. The man was reported to have kicked and stomped her as well. During the incident, the suspect fired the gun at a closet in the apartment. The woman was finally able to escape and had a neighbor call the police.

 

Police arrested Nahum Nehemiah Brown for Aggravated Domestic Battery, Aggravated Kidnapping, Criminal Discharge of a Firearm at an Occupied Dwelling, Aggravated Endangering a Child, Aggravated Assault, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 28-year-old Dakeshia Shantae Reece was also arrested for felony Interference with Law Enforcement and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Caney Polling Place Moved, Other Election Information

 

The polling place for the City of Caney voters has been moved. Instead of voting at Cornerstone Church at 900 S. Ridgeway, voters will now need to go to Caney City Hall at 100 W. 4th Street.

 

The Montgomery County Election Office continues to release updated information for voters ahead of November 3rd's Election Day. Independence voters that vote at the USDA Service Center at 410 Peter Pan Road are requested to enter the building from the east side. In addition, early voting at the Courthouse ends at noon on November 2nd.

 

Contact the election office at 620-330-1200 if you have any questions.

Coffeyville's Makayla Ross Wins Queen Neelah the 79th

 

During Independence's annual celebration of Neewollah, Queen Neelah the 79th was crowned Tuesday night.

 

Makayla Ross represents Coffeyville, attends Field Kinley High School and is on the dance team.

 

Neewollah festivities continue throughout the rest of the week including Movie Night at the Park on Friday with a showing of Monster House at the Riverside Park Oval. The movie will begin at 7 p.m. but you are encouraged to arrive early for a good spot along with some lawn chairs or a blanket.

Jefferson Student Test Positive for COVID-19

 

A student at Jefferson School in Independence has tested positive for COVID-19, according to the Montgomery County Health Department.

 

Per the school's protocol, all areas the student has used over the past several days have been temporarily closed off to be disinfected. The student will not be able to return to school until the county health department deems it safe.

 

All close contacts have been notified and they will not be able to return to school for 14 days, however, they will have access to remote learning. If you have questions, please contact Superintendent Rusty Arnold at 620-496-4706.

Gas Demand Declines, National Average Remains Low

 

The national average for a gallon of regular gasoline has held steady at $2.15, which is one cent less than a week ago, two cents less than a month ago, and 48 cents cheaper than last year.

 

In the new weekly report from the Energy Information Administration, gas demand decreased from 8.58 million barrels per day to 8.29 million BPD. That low demand last week has helped pump prices decrease. As demand remains low, American drivers should expect pump prices to continue to decline this fall.

 

According to AAA, Kansas prices currently sit at $1.92, which is down 2 cents than at the same time last week. Montgomery County sits three cents higher than the state average at $1.95 a gallon while Labette County is currently at $1.94 a gallon. Chautauqua County clocked in at $1.98 a gallon.

 

Across the border in Oklahoma, the state average is $1.84 which is 3 cents cheaper than a week ago. Washington County is at $1.78 a gallon while Nowata County came in at $1.73 a gallon.

 

Services for Long-Time CCC Football Coach Dick Foster Announced

 

A memorial service for long-time Coffeyville Community College football coach, Dick Foster will be held this Saturday, October 31st at 1:30 pm at River City Church, 3001 Lawrence Ave. Lawrence Ks 66047. Due to Covid restrictions, the service will only be for the family.

 

At the former coach's request in lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to the CCC Foundation c/o the Dick Foster Memorial Fund or First United Methodist Church of Coffeyville.

 

Please keep the Foster family in your prayers.

Ice Causes Scattered Power Outages Across Area

 

Scattered power outages have been reported across the area today due to ice on power lines and tree limbs.  As of mid-afternoon today over 150 Evergy customers were without power in Independence, Dearing, Caney, Tyro, Cherryvale, and Parsons.  Crews are on the scene working to restore power to all customers.

 

Statewide over 1,000 Evergy customers were affected by outages.  

Over 700 Pounds of Prescription Drugs Turned Over to DEA

 

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office and Galena Police Department recently participated in the Drug Enforcement Administration's 19th Drug Take-Back Event held this past Saturday.

 

The National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications.

 

Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves said that this year's Drug Take Back Event was very successful as they will be turning over 712 pounds of prescription drugs over to the DEA for safe disposal. Groves also said that due to the success of the event, the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office along with the Galena Police Department have both installed permanent drop boxes in their lobbies, so citizens can dispose of drugs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

CRC Holding Contests for Halloween

 

The Coffeyville Recreation Commission is holding a couple of virtual contests for Halloween.

 

The Virtual Halloween Costume Contest encourages parents to take a picture of their child's costume, while the Home and Yard Decorating Contest welcomes families to take a picture of their decorations for the year. Submissions should be sent to either crcprojects@coffeyvillerec.com or sent through Facebook Messenger.

 

For both contests, submissions will be added to an album on Facebook for the community to vote. Winners will be announced November 2nd. For more information, check out the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce's Halloween guide here.

Emergency Siren Test Tomorrow

 

CVR Energy and its partners will be conducting a test of its emergency siren system tomorrow.

 

The annual siren test will begin at 10 a.m on October 28 in conjunction with a plant evacuation and emergency response team drill. One siren is located west of Linden Street between Fourth and Fifth streets, and the other is located at First and Maple streets. Residents will be further notified through emergency announcements on the KGGF family of radio stations, including 104.1 FM, 98.1 FM, 98.9 FM, and 690 AM. The all-clear message will also play over both the sirens and the radio.

 

The test is contingent upon safe weather conditions. In case of severe weather, the test will be postponed to a later date.

School Closings for October 27th

 

Here is a list of schools that are closed for Tuesday, October 27th:

 

USD 285 Cedar Vale Schools

USD 286 Sedan Schools

USD 465 Winfield Schools

USD 470 Arkansas City Schools

USD 471 Dexter Schools (All Scheduled Activities Canceled)

 

Also, USD 282 West Elk Schools will have a two-hour delay today.

 

Severe Weather Coverage is brought to you by Eck Heat & Air and H&H Roofing & Restoration.

Man Arrested on Two Counts

 

A man was arrested over the weekend after shooting a gun at a business.

 

Chanute PD was dispatched to the area of the 3800 block of South Santa Fe for a report of shots fired. During the investigation, officers were told that a man was showing people inside the business a gun that he had inside his front waistband. They asked the man to leave the business and a couple of people followed him outside the door, locking the door behind him.

 

Just a few seconds later, a bullet went through the door, missing the people inside. The bullet went through the back wall and ricocheted off the sidewalk. The people inside the business knew the man and told officers who he was and where he had been staying. Officers located 28-year-old Jared Blake Holcomb just a short distance away. The gun had been given to another person, who gave it to the officers when they arrived.

 

Holcomb was arrested for the charges of aggravated assault and criminal discharge of a firearm.

Coffeyville 10th Street Project Coming 2021

 

Construction to 10th Street in Coffeyville will be coming next summer as approved by the Montgomery County Commission.

 

During the commission's weekly meeting, it was decided unanimously to move forward to approve a contract to move forward with construction of the Coffeyville street.

 

The contractor for the project has been announced.

 

The project will not close off the road, but it will reduce the street to one-lane traffic. It has been estimated to last a minimum of 55 working days. At the earliest, the project will begin in March of 2021.

Drugs and Stolen Handgun Seized During Traffic Stop

 

A Missouri duo was taken into custody by Cherokee County Sheriff Deputies following an early morning traffic stop in Baxter Springs.

 

Just after midnight, deputies and Baxter Springs Police stopped a vehicle, which contained a significant amount of heroin, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and a handgun, previously reported stolen out of Joplin. Arrested at the scene were 27-year-old Megan Detherage, of Joplin and 28-year-old Daniel Sean Garland, of Carthage.

 

Both suspects are being held in the Cherokee County Jail on allegations of Possessing Heroin with Intent to Distribute, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Criminal Use of a Firearm, Possession of Stolen Property and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

 

Garland's bond has been set at $60,500.00 and Detherage, who also had an outstanding arrest warrant from the City of Galena, is being held on $60,686.00 bond.

Coffeyville City Commission to Consider Resolution to Encourage Home Construction

 

The City of Coffeyville is expected to take action on a resolution to encourage housing construction and business development when they meet Tuesday evening.  Commissioners will consider the resolution authorizing the waiver of certain building permits and inspection fees that they hope will encourage construction and development.

 

In other business, commissioners will hear reports on final assessed valuations, crime statistics from the Coffeyville police department, and an update from the Rec Commission.  They will also consider a resolution authorizing an application for a Safe Routes to School grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation Alternatives Program.

 

Commissioners will meet at 6:30 Tuesday evening in the Commission Room at City Hall.

U.S. Senate Candidate Roger Marshall to Visit SEK

 

Republican U.S. Senate candidate for Kansas, Dr. Roger Marshall will be making a campaign swing through southeast Kansas this week. 

 

Marshall will be speaking in Coffeyville from 3:30 until 4 Wednesday afternoon at Jake’s Fireworks on 11th Street.  He’ll also be in Sedan from 5 until 5:30 Wednesday evening at H&H Hunting Supplies on Main Street. 

 

In addition, Marshall will speak to voters earlier in the day Wednesday at Daylight Donuts on West Maple in Columbus from 1 until 1:30 and in Baxter Springs from 2 until 2:30 at Veterans Memorial Park on Park Avenue.

 

Marshall will be facing Democratic candidate Barbara Bollier for the U.S. Senate seat for Kansas next week in the general election on November 3rd.

Legendary Coffeyville Coach Passes Away

 

Dick Foster, who essentially put Coffeyville Community College football on the map, has passed away at the age of 86.

 

Foster arrived in Coffeyville in February of 1975 and brought back championship football. Foster’s Red Ravens went 127-23-2 including winning the National Championship in 1983 during his 14 seasons at the helm. His teams also played in 11 bowl games, winning eight. Foster also coached at Fort Scott Community College, which won the NJCAA National Championship in 1970.

 

Foster is the only head coach in NJCAA history that has won a National Championship at two different schools and still has the highest winning percentage of any head coach in junior college ball by winning 85% of the games he coached.

 

He was selected to the NJCAA Football Hall of Fame, the Kansas Sports Hall of Fame as well as Coffeyville's and Fort Scott's Hall of Fames.

One Dead Following Officer Involved Shooting in Montgomery County

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that took place Friday afternoon in rural Montgomery County.

 

On Oct. 23, at approximately 1:45 p.m., the Kansas Highway Patrol and the MG CO Sheriff’s Office requested KBI investigative assistance. KBI agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded to the scene.

 

Preliminary information indicates that, just before 1 p.m., a victim called 911 to report being robbed at gunpoint at the Regal Inn in Coffeyville. At approximately 1:15 p.m., a KHP trooper observed a vehicle near 3600 Rd. in Independence, that matched the vehicle connected to the robbery. He and another KHP trooper who responded to assist. They initiated a car stop on the silver 2006 Chrysler Town and Country minivan, occupied by a female driver and a male passenger.

 

As the troopers attempted the traffic stop, the male passenger, later identified as 32-year-old Wesley Jordan of Hot Springs, Ark., fired at the troopers. A trooper returned fire and the subjects fled, prompting a police pursuit. Near the intersection of 3600 Rd. and 3900 Rd., a deputy from the MG CO Sheriff’s Office intercepted the minivan and fired at Jordan. The minivan continued west on 3600 Rd., for another 1/4 mile, until it came to a stop. A KHP trooper then fired at Jordan as he exited the minivan.

 

Jordan was pronounced deceased at the scene by MG CO EMS. No law enforcement officers were injured during this incident. The driver was a 26-year-old female from Coffeyville. She was taken into custody for questioning and was later arrested by the Coffeyville Police Department for charges related to the armed robbery.

 

The KBI will conduct a thorough and independent investigation into this shooting. Once completed, the findings will be turned over to the MG CO Attorney for review. This investigation is ongoing.

Panel Discussion on Racial Inequities Planned

The Black Student Association at Pittsburg State University will host a panel discussion, “A Story on Repeat,” at the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts at 6 p.m. on Nov. 2. There will be both limited seating for in-person viewing and a live-stream for remote viewing.  

 

The discussion will focus on racial tension and racial inequities in the U.S., with the goal of fostering a better understanding of marginalized groups. 

 

The panelists include: 

  • D'Andre Phillips, president of the Black Student Association 
  • Jamie Wood, professor of psychology and counseling 
  • Quentin Turner, a patrol officer for the Pittsburg Police Department  
  • Lamour Romine, a detective for the Pittsburg Police Department 
  • Jared Bush, secretary of the Gamma Chi Chapter of the Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. 

 

The discussion will be live-streamed on Facebook.com/bicknellcenter and pittstate.tv. It will be archived at pittstate.tv for viewing later. 

Voting Options in the 2020 Election

 

As the 2020 General Election nears, the Montgomery County Election Board would like to inform voters of the multiple ways that you can cast your vote in this election cycle.

 

You can request to receive a ballot by mail, but that request must be received by October 27th.  If you are mailing in a ballot, it must be postmarked on or before Election Day. Voters may vote early, in person, at on-site voting booths at the County Clerk’s Office at the Montgomery County Courthouse by Noon on November 2nd.

 

Ballots may also be hand-delivered to the County Clerk’s Office, placed in the drop off box located on the south side of the judicial Building, or taken to any Montgomery County polling place on November 3rd by close of polls. Absentee ballots must be signed and sealed in the official envelope that the County Clerk’s Office provided.

 

In-Person Voting will be on Election Day between 7:00 am and 7:00 pm at Montgomery County Polling sites.

Independence Launches Search for New City Engineer

 

The city of Independence has initated a search for a new city engineer.

 

City Manager Kelly Passauer announced a new step in the city's reorganization plan during Thursday's city commission meeting. The city engineer would operate under the supervision of the assistant city manager and would be responsible for the overall administration and direction of all public works and utility departments. That would entail the supervision of the operations of the water plant, wastewater plant, sanitation and municipal airport, as well as street and water/sewer crews.

 

The position will be considered open until filled, but first review of applications will begin on November 18.

Residential Fire in Coffeyville

 

A residential fire occurred at 714 W 6th Street in Coffeyville on Wednesday night.

 

When the Coffeyville Fire Department arrived on the scene, the house was completely engulfed in flames. They were able to get the fire under control within a few minutes with the help of the Dearing and South Coffeyville Fire Departments.

 

CFD is thankful for their help as well as the Coffeyville Police Department for quickly blocking off the street and Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power for shutting off power to the home.

 

The cause of the fire is unknown at this time and is currently under investigation.

SAFE Program Enters 10th Year in Cherokee County

 

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is entering its 10th year of participation with the Seatbelts Are For Everyone Program in area high schools.

 

The SAFE Program is a state-wide student-led effort to help increase seatbelt usage rates among young drivers through education, positive rewards, and enforcement. All four high schools in Cherokee County - Baxter Springs, Columbus, Galena, and Riverton - participate in the program, with each having student SAFE Team members within the school.

 

In the fall, a baseline survey is conducted to determine the average number of students wearing seatbelts. Then throughout the school year, the student SAFE Team members provide information and encouragement to their classmates, stressing the importance of buckling up.

 

In addition, students can sign a pledge card promising to wear their safety belt with prize drawings held throughout the year using the pledge cards. Towards the end of the school year, another survey is conducted to gauge success and increases in seatbelt usage rates.

Baxter Springs PD Warns About Car Thefts

 

The Baxter Springs Police Department warns of multiple car thefts that have occurred throughout the town in the past couple of nights.

 

In a Facebook post, BSPD claims to have one suspect in custody but believes that there could be another suspect that has been involved in these thefts.

 

BSPD urges people to lock their vehicles whenever they are not in use and to not leave any valuable items in your vehicle. They also suggest reporting any suspicious activity that you might see.

Neodesha Shooting Range Closed to Public

 

The Neodesha City Commission has voted to close down the Neodesha Shooting Range effective immediately to all non-city employees. The decision was made at the city commission meeting on October 14th but has now taken effect.

 

The reason behind the closing is due to the uncontrolled damage that has been caused by shooters.

 

If you have any questions concerning the closure, please contact the Neodesha Police Department at 620-325-3031.

KDHE Adds North Dakota to Travel Quarantine List

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has added North Dakota and the country of Andorra to its travel quarantine list.

 

KDHE recommends if you have been to either of those places or if you have been out of state in a crowd larger than 500 people who were not wearing masks or socially distancing, that you quarantine for 14 days.

 

This also applies if you have been on a cruise ship or river cruise.

 

 

 

Two Students, One Teacher in Independence Have COVID

 

A student at Independence High School has tested positive for COVID-19, along with a student and a teacher at Jefferson Middle School, according to the Montgomery Health Department.

 

Per the school district's protocol, areas those individuals have used are temporarily closed to be thoroughly disinfected.

 

Those identified as close contacts have been notified, and they, along with those who tested positive, will not be allowed to return to school for 14 days.

 

For any questions you may have, please contact Superintendent Rusty Arnold at 620-496-4706.

Stolen Property From Two States Recovered

 

A Chetopa man has been arrested on probation violation and possession of stolen property.

 

Detectives from the Labette County Sheriff’s Office received information on the location of stolen property in Chetopa. Officers from the Labette County Sheriff’s Office & the Chetopa Police Dept. executed a search warrant at 1305 Franklin Street.

 

During the search of the residence, officers located numerous stolen households & workshop items, along with 2 stolen Wave Runners, 2 stolen four-wheelers & 1 side x side. At this time officers have identified stolen items from Kansas & Oklahoma that covers 11 different jurisdictions.

 

Warrant officers arrested Ronnie J. Butler. Butler is currently incarcerated at the Labette County Sheriff’s Office for possession of stolen property and probation violation. The estimated value of the stolen property exceeds several thousand dollars.

Niotaze Man Arrested in Caney for Traffic Violation

 

Caney PD has arrested 44-year-old Cory Perry from Niotaze for traffic violations.

 

Perry was stopped at the corner of High and 10th Street in a 1998 Dodge Dakota, and upon further investigation, it was discovered that he was driving with a suspended license and expired insurance. Perry also had an active warrant out of the City of Caney Municipal Court. He was arrested and transported to the Montgomery County Jail.

Residential Burglary in Sedan

 

The Sedan Police Department reported a burglary that occurred between 5 a.m. and 9 a.m. Tuesday morning.

 

The burglary happened in the 100 block of West County Road in Sedan. SPD asks that if you have any information on the burglary to please call them at (620) 725-3108.

 

Police Chief Kirk Richardson said that this was an isolated incident, but stresses to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity immediately.

Man Injured in Wilson County Crash

 

A man was injured in a single-vehicle wreck in Wilson County.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2014 Mack Semi driven by 36-year-old Jeffrey Compton of Hoisington was southbound on K-39 when the right-side tires went over the roadway. Compton over-corrected back onto the roadway which caused him to roll over and end up in the southbound side ditch.

 

Compton was transported to Fredonia Regional Hospital for a possible injury. Safety restraints were not in use at the time of the crash.

Bartlesville FFA Wins State Championship

 

The Bartlesville FFA Opening and Closing Ceremonies team has won a state championship.

 

The group was named as the 2020 state champions in the Virtual Opening and Closing Ceremonies contest by the Oklahoma FFA Association. Members of the team include: Lexi Vick (president), Kira Hatlestad (vice president), Jeremy Wilson (secretary), Reed Dennis (treasurer), Ella Goodwin (reporter), and Liberty McCloud (sentinel).

 

Marty Jones and Cameron Dale are the instructors of the Bartlesville FFA program.

Spooktacular Cancelled

 

Due to a large increase in COVID-19 cases in Montgomery County, and after consulting with multiple community leaders, The Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce has made the decision to cancel the 2020 Spooktacular event.

 

Director of the Chamber Candi Westbrook says this is one of the hardest decisions the Chamber and the Board has had to make. The health and safety of the community is important to them and they know families have already had to deal with the workforce challenges when many area schools had to move to virtual learning. The Chamber wants to ensure they are not putting the children at a higher risk of additional quarantines.

 

Although Spooktacular will not take place, they are looking into hosting more community wide events when conditions allow, to help reboot the local business economy and provide more activities for Coffeyville.

Man and Woman Arrested in Chanute

 

A man and woman were arrested over the weekend on multiple charges including domestic battery and drug possession.

 

Chanute PD responded to the area of 300 block south Highland for a disturbance. Upon arrival, officers noticed an adult male running away from a residence. After a short foot chase, he was stopped and detained. Officers also made contact with an adult female and a couple of young children in the home.

 

During the investigation, officers were able to obtain a search warrant for illegal narcotics. After the warrant was served, Officers arrested 30-year-old Zachary Austin Jesseph for domestic battery, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia. 35-year-old Amanda Nickel was also arrested for possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

 

They both were transported to the Neosho County Jail without incident.

 

Pitt State Appoints Kegler as Associate Vice President

 

Pittsburg State University has announced the appointment of Jason Kegler as associate vice president for Student Life.

 

Kegler, who previously served as assistant vice president, soon will have additional supervisory responsibility for the staff and operations of the Department of University Housing. Connie Malle, current director of University Housing, recently announced her intention to retire in the Spring 2021 semester.

 

Kegler holds a doctorate in educational leadership from Baker University. He joined the staff at PSU in 2014 and has served in diverse roles in a range of areas including campus security, threat assessment, conflict resolution, Title IX, advising student organizations, training, and academic misconduct.

 

Prior to coming to PSU, Kegler held leadership positions at both Allen and Neosho Community Colleges while serving as a sheriff's deputy in Allen County.

Saturation Patrol Success in Parsons

 

Parsons Police, Labette County Sheriff's Department, and the Kansas Combined Anti-Drug Taskforce conducted a saturation patrol in Parsons over the weekend.

 

Commander Kyle Wiford of the K-CAT team headed up the operation and their efforts were successful as they conducted 44 traffic stops during their duties. The result was 15 citations, traffic infractions, and misdemeanor and six arrests for the weekend, including one felony arrest for Possession of Methamphetamines. There were also two misdemeanor warrants served.

 

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks said, "This was a great effort and a continued partnership with Labette County Sheriff's Department will only bring more success in the future."

KDOT Emphasizes To Be on Lookout for Deer

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation is emphasizing to be on the lookout for deer while driving.

 

While deer can be spotted near roadways any time of the year, KDOT warns that motorists should be especially vigilant in the fall for deer crossing roadways due to the “rut,” or mating season which is a time when deer are frequently on the move at all hours of the day.

 

Further precautions KDOT is saying you can use are using bright lights when there is no oncoming traffic and not swerving to avoid hitting a deer. Swerving is where the most serious crashes sometimes occur when motorists swerve and collide with another vehicle.

 

Eight people were killed and 556 people were injured in deer-vehicle crashes on Kansas roadways in 2019. Data from KDOT reports that there were 246 crashes reported to be caused by deer in Montgomery County. Those crashes resulted in five injuries and no deaths. Three of the eight deaths reported last year occurred in Wilson County.

Indy City Commission to Consider Declaring Water Emergency

 

The Independence City Commission will consider declaring a "water emergency" during its next regular session this Thursday.

 

Due to the ongoing drought, and the potential for that drought to continue, the state of Kansas is starting to restrict the amount of water that the city of Independence uses from the Verdigris River. Officials have already been in touch with the city of Independence and have delivered their first order limiting the city to a maximum of 1,289 GPM that can be pumped from the river. That order went into effect Tuesday. The state anticipates that unless significant rainfall occurs, the river's natural flow will decrease greatly over the next few weeks.

 

Further orders will likely reduce the allowed intake below the city's average of 1,175-1,250 GPM (or 1.5-1.7 million gallons per day). Therefore, the commission will consider declaring a water emergency and implementing water conservation measures. These measures would include restricting outdoor watering for gardens, lawns, trees, shrubs, plants, playing fields, private swimming pools, or other recreational areas. The residential washing of vehicles, boats, trailers, or the exterior of buildings would also be restricted. However, the restrictions would not extend to commercial car washes or activities involving the care of pets or livestock.

 

The full agenda for Thursday's city commission meeting can be found here.

 

Emergency Siren Test Next Week

 

CVR Energy will be conducting a regular siren test next week.

 

The test will be conducted Wednesday, October 28th, at 10 a.m. Two sirens will be utilized: one located west of Linden Street between Fourth and Fifth streets, and another located at First and Maple streets.

 

In case of emergency, announcements will be broadcast on all four radio stations, including KGGF (690 AM and 104.1 FM), KUSN (98.1) and KQQF (98.9). The "All Clear" message will be played over the siren's speaker system, as well as on the aforementioned radio stations.

 

Questions about the siren system may be directed to CVR Energy at 620-251-4000.

Cville PAT Earns Blue Ribbon Status

 

The USD 445 Parents as Teachers program has completed the Quality Endorsement & Improvement Process and earned the highest designation, which is a Blue Ribbon Affiliate status.

 

Parents as Teachers provides early childhood organizations and professionals with information and tools that are innovative, relevant, and widely applicable across settings to today’s parents, families, and children. A link to the USD 445 PAT website can be found here.

Caney Police Respond to Fight

 

The Caney Police Department responded to a shooting early Sunday morning.

 

At approximately 1:45 am, an Officer with Caney PD was in the area of the Black Saddle Saloon and heard what he believed to be a gunshot from the area of the parking lot. Upon arrival, the Officer discovered a group of people in the parking lot. Back up was called to the scene.

 

Preliminary indications as a result of interviews and evidence at the scene indicate two men became involved in an argument in the parking lot outside and one of the men retrieved a gun from his truck. The other man then struck the man with a gun and at some point, the gun fired striking a truck parked nearby. No one was injured as a result of the gunfire.

 

The investigation is ongoing and the results of this investigation will be forwarded to the Montgomery County Attorney's Office for possible criminal charges.

 

Law Enforcement Agencies to Collect Unused Medications

 

Law enforcement officers at locations across the state will be collecting unused medications for safe disposal this Saturday.

 

The collection events are part of a nationwide effort to safely dispose of leftover medications to prevent accidental or intentional misuse. Since the Drug Take-Back Day program began in 2010, more than 95 tons of unwanted medications have been collected and destroyed in Kansas alone.

 

Nationwide, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) estimates opioid overdoses kill nearly 130 Americans every day. According to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, pharmaceutical opioids are a leading cause of drug poisoning deaths in Kansas.

 

Medications will be accepted at drop-off sites across the state from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. To find a location, click here.

Gradual Warm Up Expected This Week

 

Temperatures are expected to slowly climb through the next few days throughout south central and southeast Kansas.

 

The National Weather Service in Wichita is calling for a gradual rise in temperatures throughout the area, potentially reaching the high 70s in portions of the state by Wednesday. Temperatures are expected to be highest along the Kansas-Oklahoma border.

 

In addition to the warmer temperatures, there is also a substantial chance for showers and thunderstorms throughout the beginning of the week.

UPDATE: Arrest Made in Independence Murders

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Independent Police Department made an arrest Sunday evening connected to the recent murders of two men in Independence.

 

18-year-old James Taylor Shawn Gofourth of Independence was arrested just after 5 p.m. on Sunday evening. The arrest warrant, served to Gofourth at the Labette County Jail, alleges that Gofourth committed two counts of first-degree murder related to the deaths of 27-year-old Tyler Cook and 24-year-old Rodricus Dawson. In addition to the murder charges, the warrant also alleges one count of attempted murder for injuring a 27-year-old Independence woman.


Gofourth and two other suspects had already been arrested early Sunday morning in Chetopa for an attempted armed robbery of an individual which occurred at the Chetopa Motel. The Chetopa Police Department was immediately dispatched, and Deputies from the Labette County Sheriff's Office responded to assist in the investigation. During the investigation, it was determined the suspects left the area in a vehicle eastbound.  A short time later,  the suspect vehicle re-entered Chetopa city limits, and a high-risk vehicle stop was initiated by the Chetopa Police Department, Labette County Sheriff's Office and Cherokee County Sheriff's Office.

 

The occupants of the vehicle were removed from the vehicle and during a search, a loaded handgun was that was stolen from Pittsburg was discovered. In addition, methamphetamine and items used for the packaging and distribution of methamphetamine was discovered

 

35-year-old Racheal N. Westman and 34-year old Jacob D. Musgrove both of Independence were arrested and transported to the Labette County Jail and are being held on a $50,000 bond each for charges arising from the incident in Chetopa. Gofourth is being held without bond.

UPDATE: Structure Fire In Downtown Coffeyville

 

A structure fire was reported in downtown Coffeyville late Sunday night. The fire, which was responded to by the Coffeyville Fire and Police Departments, occurred on 9th Street.

 

We will have more details on this developing story as they become available. Those who are signed up with KGGF Text Alerts, powered by Equity Bank, received this story first.

 

UPDATE: The fire has been confirmed to have been at Chicks Pool Hall. Due to the fire, the Advanced Physical Therapy location and the Coffeyville Reawakening Office are both closed at least through Monday due to smoke damage.

 

 

Victims Identified in Indy Homicide

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Independence Police Department continue to investigate the deaths of two Independence men.

 

The homicide victims have been identified as 27-year-old Tyler D. Cook and 24-year-old Rodricus A. Dawson. Both men are from Independence. A 27-year-old woman from Independence was also injured during this incident. She is expected to survive.

 

Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Independence Police Department at 620-332-1700.

NWS Radio Down in Erie

 

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration's weather radio station WXK-95 from Erie that serves southeast Kansas remains off the air.
Service to the tower is needed and this outage is likely to continue for a while longer.

The National Weather Service in Wichita's Vanessa Pearce says they are hopeful the weather radio will return to service in the next week or so.
They are sorry for the inconvenience this outage has caused.

Pitt State Testing Athletes in Prep for Season

 

In preparation for fall and winter sports, baseline asymptomatic testing of student-athletes, coaches, managers, and trainers began this week at Pittsburg State University. So far, 193 have been tested, with six positives. PSU Intercollegiate Athletics Director Jim Johnson says testing is mandated by the NCAA. In the past seven days, 20 symptomatic students were tested on campus with four testing positive. Quarantine numbers remain about the same as the previous seven-day period at approximately 50 students. 

 

PSU COVID-19 Case Manager Taylor Panczer says more students are testing off campus and that combined with the asymptomatic athletics testing, meant isolation numbers rose from three to 21 in the past seven days, while testing conducted on campus fell for the sixth straight week.

Homicide Investigation Underway in Independence

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Independence Police Department are investigating two deaths that occurred overnight in Independence.

 

At approximately 3:45 a.m., the IPD received a 911 call from a citizen who reported hearing gunfire and seeing a vehicle that had crashed into an apartment. When officers arrived at the 500 block of N. Penn Ave. in Independence, they discovered the crashed vehicle, and two deceased male subjects. They also located an injured female subject. EMS responded, and they flew the woman to a Joplin hospital. Both male subjects were pronounced deceased at the scene. They will be identified once all appropriate next of kin are notified.

 

The Independence Police Department requested KBI assistance at approximately 4:15 a.m. on Friday, Oct. 16. Special agents and the Crime Scene Response Team responded. Anyone with information about this case is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Independence Police Department at 620-332-1700.

 

The investigation is currently ongoing. Nothing further will be released at this time.

 

 

Caney Woman Arrested on DUI and Aggravated Child Endangerment Charges

 

A Caney woman was arrested Thursday afternoon for drunk driving and endangerment of a child.

 

The driver of the vehicle was identified as 39-year-old Jessica Reade of Caney. Officers found a 4-year-old child in the car with Reade.

 

She was arrested for driving under the influence, transportation of an open container, aggravated child endangerment and no child restraint. She was transported to the Montgomery County Jail.

Watch for Illness in Cattle in the Fall

 

Early fall can bring stress on beef cows and calves, whether it be from the weaning process, the change in the weather, or other factors. Kansas State University Beef Veterinarian A.J. Tarpoff says that anaplasmosis remains a leading health threat to cow herds, and it tends to show up at this time of the year.

 

 

Tarpoff says if a producer does see those outward indicators of anaplasmosis, a swift response is in order.  Tarpoff says to work closely with your veterinarian in contending with these and other health ailments that commonly show up in the fall.

Traffic Stop Leads to Drugs and Gun Arrest

 

Parsons police arrested a man during a traffic stop yesterday after drugs and a weapon was found in the vehicle.

 

Parsons Police Sergeant Joel Franklin witnessed a vehicle that was driving left of center and traveling 12 MPH over the speed limit in the 500 block of South 26th. Sergeant Franklin made a traffic stop and was immediately given a false name by the driver. Sergeant Franklin noticed the presence of marijuana in the vehicle and after a search, the true identity of the driver was discovered to be 27-year old Clarence Lee Williams.  Williams was in possession of illegal narcotics, marijuana, paraphernalia, and a firearm.

 

Williams was arrested for three counts of Possession of a Controlled Substance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Paraphernalia, Interference with Law Enforcement, Sale and Distribution of Marijuana, Sale, and Distribution of Other Certain Illegal Drugs, Aggravated Weapons Violation, Suspicion of Driving under the Influence, No Valid Driver's License, and multiple traffic violations.

 

Williams is currently being held at the Parsons Police Department.

 

Varying Temperatures This Weekend

 

Strong winds and a strong cold front will puncuate this weekend's weather forecast. The National Weather Service in Wichita is predicting a high of 65 on Friday, and then rising temperatures into Saturday that will be higher than average.

 

However, southeast Kansas will likely see a strong cold front move through the area, which will drop tempures nearly 20 degrees to the low-to-mid 50s. Temperatures wll then steadily climb throughout the rest of next week.

Scheduled Power Outage in South Coffeyville

 

A scheduled power outage is occurring in South Coffeyville.

 

It began around 8 a.m. this morning and it's scheduled to continue until 2 p.m. The maintenance department is currently working on an issue with their electrical system. If you have any questions, please call (918) 255-6513.

Nowata Man in Custody After Standoff

 

A Nowata man was taken into custody after a standoff late Wednesday evening.

 

Nowata PD was on the scene responding to a possible aggravated assault case where a firearm was possibly involved.

 

The suspect was cornered between Mississippi and Scoop Cooper on US Highway 60.

 

At the time of the incident, the highway was closed off to traffic but has since been reopened. The suspect was arrested without incident.

IHS Staff Member Tests Positive, Senior Night Next Week is Still On

 

Another staff member has tested positive for COVID-19 at Independence High School. This is the seventh staff member that has tested positive, and the 29th coronavirus case at the school.

 

In other news, IHS is continuing with senior night next Friday, October 23rd. The festivities will begin at 6:15 p.m. Any senior that has not been recognized for their fall sport will be recognized. Homecoming will begin at 6:30 p.m., and the football game against Rose Hill will start at 7 p.m.

Fort Scott USD 234 Changes Quarantine Policy

 

Earlier this week, the Fort Scott USD 234 school board approved in a 4-3 vote to allow close contacts of a student or staff member who is a symptomatic, confirmed COVID-19 case while at school that they do not have to go into quarantine if they are wearing a mask. Due to this policy change, students who were sent home to quarantine as a close contact last Friday will be allowed to return to school.

 

Based on the decision of the board, parents who would prefer to have their child become a remote learner or attend in-person will be allowed to make a change. The school district will require the parent to contact the child’s school to make them aware of the change.

 

The wearing of masks at school is still in place for the school district.

Water Conservation Requested in Caney

 

Due to the lack of rain and low-level water flow in the Caney River, the Caney City Council is requesting that all utility customers implement conservation measures effective immediately.

 

These measures include restricting outdoor watering for gardens, lawns, trees, shrubs, plants, playing fields, private swimming pools, or other recreational areas. Restrictions include the washing of vehicles, boats, trailers, or the exterior of any buildings. Should the city not achieve sufficient conservation, additional restrictions will be implemented as provided in Ordinance 2107.

 

If you have any questions please contact City Hall at (620) 879-2772.

Pittsburg Hospital Halting Elective Procedures

 

Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg is suspending elective procedures.

 

Officials say that’s because of a spike in Covid-19 patients in the hospital. They plan to shift staff and resources to the hospital’s Covid wing. Over the past two weeks, they’ve seen a significant increase in Covid-19 cases, with more older people contracting the virus.

 

Patients scheduled for non-emergent procedures will be notified of cancellations or rescheduling needs. Patients should consult with their physician if they have additional questions.

Three More Students, One Staff Member at USD 446 Test Positive for COVID

 

Four more people at USD 446 in Independence have tested positive for COVID-19 including three students and one staff member, according to the Montgomery County Health Department.

 

All areas that those students and staff have used over the past several days will be closed off temporarily to be disinfected. Those identified as close contacts have been notified and they, along with those infected, will not be able to return to school for 14 days.

 

On Monday night at the USD 446 School Board meeting, it was announced that there were 28 total positive cases with 22 of them being from students and six of them being from the staff.

 

If you have any questions, you can contact Superintendent Rusty Arnold at 620-496-4706.

Pittsburg State Announces Move for Office of Diversity

 

Pittsburg State University President Steve Scott has announced that the Office of Student Diversity will join the Student Life division, and concurrently, the university has named Deatrea Rose as Assistant Vice President for Student Life-Senior Diversity Officer.

 

Student Life Vice President Steve Erwin said the move is a critical next step toward enabling the university to bring greater focus and attention to campus diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that have been announced in recent weeks.

 

Rose is a two-time graduate of PSU, having earned a bachelor’s in general studies in 1996 and a master's in educational leadership in 2000. Having served in her current role since 2011, she has provided leadership in developing, enhancing, and executing programs that attract, retain, and graduate diverse students.

 

Prior to coming to PSU, Rose had spent most of her career working at community colleges throughout Southeast Kansas.

Counterfeit Money Continues to Circulate Through Coffeyville

 

Reports of counterfeit money continue to plague the city of Coffeyville. The Coffeyville Police Department reported that the bills, specifically $100 bills, continue to circulate through town. Some bills seized this week have been described to have "pink Chinese symbols" on them, while others have just been photo copied $100 bills. Those who believe that they may possess a counterfeit bill may call dispatch and have it investigated.

 

Suspects have been identified in all but one case thus far. To report information regarding any of these cases, dial 620-252-6160.

Coffeyville City Commission Applying for Government Funds for Street Construction

 

The Coffeyville City Commission approved unanimously to apply for funds from the Kansas Department of Commerce in order to make improvements on 9th and 10th streets.

 

The resolution that was approved on Tuesday night's meeting assures funds will continuously be provided for maintenance and operation for the CDBG financed street system improvements.

 

Along with this approval, they also went forward with authorizing Administrative Consulting Services with Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission for the 2021 Kansas Small Cities CDBG Grant for street improvements.

K-102 Resurfacing Project To Start Wednesday

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation plans on to begin a resurfacing project Wednesday on K-102 in Cherokee County.

 

An asphalt overlay will be placed on the entire five miles of K-102 between West Mineral and K-7. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the project area during daylight hours; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. The resurfacing work should be completed in two weeks, weather permitting.

 

KDOT awarded the $310,147 construction contract to Heckert Construction of Pittsburg.

Spooktacular Coming Soon

 

The Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce is hosting its annual Spooktacular trick-or-treat event next Saturday, October 26th. Parents and children are invited to come to downtown Coffeyville and enjoy trick-or-treating from 4:30 to 6:00 p.m.

 

Due to the ongoing pandemic, those who attend will be encouraged to follow a special route this year, which can be found below. Masks will also be encouraged. 

 

 

Shots Fired In Parsons

 

Parsons police are looking for help in finding the person who was reported to be shooting a gun.

 

Parsons PD was dispatched to the 100 block of South 25th for reported gunshots. Responding officers located and spoke to witnesses who heard the gunshots. The officers were informed that an older white four-door Ford car was possibly involved.

 

While officers looked for the vehicle in question, the investigating officers located 3 shell casings in the street. The intended target of the shooting is unknown at this time, although officers located what appeared to be a bullet hole in the metal siding of a nearby building, it does not appear that they were the target. Witnesses who heard the gunshot could not positively identify the target or the suspects. Police are still investigating the incident.

 

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

Coffeyville Demo Derby This Weekend

 

Fans of utmost destruction should mark their calendars this Saturday, as the Coffeyville Demo Derby returns to town. This year's edition of the event will be held October 17 at Walter Johnson Park.

 

The gates will open at 4 p.m, but the box office will open at 3. Grandstand seating will be the only option for the event, and general admission will cost $15 for ages 12 and up. Ages 4 through 11 will cost $10. The entry cost must be paid in cash.

Kansas Traffic Deaths Are Up

 

According to the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office, there have been six percent more deaths on Kansas roadways so far this year when compared to the same time last year.

 

There have been 331 deaths in the recent data study going back to New Years Day and leading up to October 7th.

 

The preliminary data was gathered on October 12th from the Kansas Highway Patrol.

Multi-Vehicle Crash Kills One

 

A multi-vehicle crash has killed an Indiana man driving through Crawford County.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 20-year-old Brianne Norman of Pittsburg was northbound on South 260th Street when she failed to stop at a stop sign, hitting a vehicle driven by 45-year-old Kelly Connole of Butte, Montana who was headed eastbound on K-126. Connole's vehicle then struck another car going west, killing the driver, 30-year-old Sergio A. Madrigal Arevalo of Logansport, Indiana. Arevalo's passenger 21-year-old Juan Ortiz sustained minor injuries.

 

Safety restraints were in use in all vehicles.

 

Pandemic Review at USD 446 School Board Meeting

 

The Independence School Board held their monthly meeting on Monday night and several reports were up for discussion including approval of curriculum for the health class but the biggest update was from USD 446 Superintendent Rusty Arnold as he gave a review of quarantine and positive cases for the entire district for students and staff. Arnold broke down the numbers by school and then gave the total number for all schools.

 

The next regularly scheduled meeting for the USD 446 school board is scheduled for Nov. 9th at 7 pm in the community room at Independence High School.

Enrollment Numbers Decline Across the Board

 

Preliminary 20th-day enrollment figures released by the Kansas Board of Regents show a decrease statewide in enrollment at public higher education institutions, including Coffeyville and Independence Community College.

 

At CCC, the headcount went from 1,760 last year to 1,381 students this year, which is a loss of 21.5%.  ICC didn't fare much better as their headcount decreased from 882 to 798 which was a drop of 9.5%. Labette Community College also saw a drop from 1,636 to 1,419 which is a loss of 13.3% Community colleges experienced an average decrease of 14.1 percent. The average decrease in headcount at state universities was 3.5 percent, while technical colleges saw an average drop of 9.4 percent.

 

A link for a full list of enrollment figures can be found here.

Senior Food Box Program to Begin in Montgomery County

 

The Kansas Food Bank along with Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Coffeyville and Community Access Center in Independence, are introducing a USDA program to help provide monthly food boxes to low-income seniors. The Commodity Supplemental Food Program will be available in Montgomery County to persons age 60 and above who qualify by meeting income requirements. The distribution will start in November.

 

Interested seniors must fill out an application, provide proof of ID, proof of income, and proof of address. Once approved, they will receive a monthly box. Applications can be picked up at CHC-SEK, CAC of Independence, or received via mail by calling Kansas Food Bank at 316-265-3663. 

 

Applications can be picked up at the following locations:

 

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

801 W 8th St, Coffeyville KS

Daily 7 am to 7 pm (regular clinic hours)

 

Community Access Center

307 ½ W Pecan, Independence KS

Monday – Friday from 10 am to 3 pm

 

Both locations can assist with application completion as well as copying the required documents listed above.

 

Coffeyville Public Library Moving to Curbside Only

 

The Coffeyville Public Library is moving their services to curbside only until further notice.

 

Starting today, patrons may call or use the library's website to place items on hold. Those needing to pick-up those items should call 620-251-1370, or alternatively 620-688-2103 to complete their pick up.

 

Pick-up hours are from 12:30 pm to 5:30 pm. For more information, you may contact the library.

Man Injured in Accident

 

A Coffeyville man was injured in a single-vehicle accident over the weekend in northeastern Montgomery County.

 

According to a Kansas Highway Patrol report, 73-year-old Phillip Merriman was driving a 2003 Honda motorcycle westbound on U.S. Highway 400 and attempted to take the ramp to southbound U.S. 169 when his motorcycle left the road for an unknown reason and his vehicle overturned.

 

Merriman was transported to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center for suspected minor injuries.

Labette County Receives Grant

 

Labette County USD 506 will receive just over $500,000 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture Rural Development to provide interactive video conferencing equipment to allow access to students in rural Kansas.

 

The announcement was part of a USDA announcement that it is investing $72 million in 40 states through the Distance Learning and Telemedicine Grant Program. These investments will benefit more than 12 million rural residents.

 

The grant will allow the district to purchase a variety of new technology and allow students to work with Labette Community College in providing online classes. The grant will also combat issues regarding internet connection and video conferencing.

Dewey to Make Brief Transition to Online Instruction

 

Dewey Public Schools have announced Friday that one staff member and three elementary school students have tested positive for COVID-19.

 

The district believes that with the pause and the scheduled Fall Break that they can return to full operations on Monday, Oct. 19th.

 

Both distance learning days will be full instructional days and students will be expected and required to attend their classes based on their school's plan and expectations either by their teacher or school administration.

 

Superintendent Vince Vincent said there may be some individual cases where they will ask those students to continue with virtual instruction for a couple more days after Fall Break.

 

Additionally, parent/teacher conferences will continue as scheduled on the evenings of Oct. 12th and 13th.

Updated Coronavirus Totals in Montgomery County

 

There are currently 125 active COVID-19 cases and no new deaths in the last seven days ending on Friday, according to the Montgomery County Health Department and Montgomery County Department of Emergency.

 

85 people have recovered from the virus in the month of October. Age distribution of coronavirus cases shows that those 20-29-years-old have caught the virus the most with 91 total cases.

 

There have been a total of 537 cases and six deaths.

Final Escapee from Ottawa County Jail Captured

 

The last of two escaped inmates from the Ottawa County Jail has been captured.

 

On October 1st, the Miami Police Department announced that two prisoners had escaped from prison and were on the run. 38-year-old Justin Nichols was finally captured yesterday and he was taken back to the Ottawa County Jail.

 

23-year-old Justin Eby was captured on October 2nd.

National Average of Gas at Cheapest Start to October Since 2016

 

At $2.18, the national gas price average is at the cheapest start to October since 2016. That average is the same as a week ago, four cents cheaper than the start of this past September and nearly 50 cents cheaper than last year.

 

According to AAA, Kansas prices currently sit at $1.95, which is one penny less than at the same time last week. Montgomery County sits at $1.96 a gallon while Labette County currently at $1.94 a gallon. Chautauqua County is higher by four cents at $1.99 a gallon.

 

Across the border in Oklahoma, the state average is $1.89 which holds level than a week ago. Washington and Nowata counties came in at $1.78 a gallon.

KDHE Amends Travel Quarantine List

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has amended its travel quarantine list to remove Aruba, according to a press release.

 

Aruba was previously added on September 24th, but its rates have decreased over the last two weeks. Individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days include visitors and Kansans who have attended any mass gatherings of larger than 500 people or have been on a cruise ship or a river cruise on or after March 15th.

Scam Phone Calls in Cherryvale

 

The Cherryvale Police Department is wanting to inform residents about phone scammers targeting Cherryvale citizens.

 

A majority of the calls are showing a New Jersey or California caller ID, but in some instances even using local numbers. Some of the scammers are telling potential victims that they will have a warrant put out for their arrest, which is inaccurate. Cherryvale PD also wants citizens to spread the word with the elderly who are not as active on social media as they have been a primary target for these scams.

 

For more information, contact the Cherryvale Police Department at (620) 336-2400.

Nowata vs Dewey Game Postponed

 

A Dewey Schools Facebook post states that their game against Nowata has been postponed due to COVID-19 circumstances with the Nowata football program. A make-up date has yet to be announced.

 

This is the second game the Doggers have had postponed due to COVID-19.

Caney Man Arrested After Foot Chase

 

Two men were arrested earlier this week with one leading police on a foot chase in Caney.

 

Officers with the Caney PD were notified of a residential burglary that had occurred in the 200 block of East 2nd Street. During a search, officers located a vehicle at the car wash on West 4th St. that was connected to the person in question. When Officers attempted to approach the suspect, who was identified as 36-year-old Travis Smith, he fled on foot. One officer gave chase and the other officer arrested 28-year-old Harley Dean on a warrant out of Arkansas.

 

Multiple police agencies engaged in a manhunt and Smith was eventually found hiding in the attic of an abandoned house. Smith has numerous pending cases in Montgomery County including an aggravated failure to appear warrant.

 

After a search of Smith's vehicle, officers found suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and numerous stolen items from the earlier burglary. Smith will face charges of resisting arrest/fleeing and obstruction of a Law Enforcement Officer.

Columbus Day Festival Hot Air Balloon Regatta This Weekend

 

The Columbus Day Festival Hot Air Balloon Regatta is scheduled for this weekend.

 

The celebration will begin Friday, October 9th, and last all weekend with the Hot Air Balloon Glow beginning around 6:45 p.m. among many other activities going on Friday. Friday's show will be at the Industrial Park on Highway 69 and Merle Evans Drive and will cost $5 for parking.

 

There will be tons of other events going on throughout the weekend, and the schedule for the weekend can be found on the event's official website. 

More Positive COVID Tests at Independence Schools

 

Two more students at Independence High School and a staff member at Jefferson School have tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the Montgomery County Health Department.

 

There have been eight positive tests in the last three days at USD 446.

 

Areas that the students and staff member used have been temporarily closed off to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected, per the school's protocol. All students and staff members identified as close contacts have been notified.

 

The Independence junior varsity soccer team's game versus Circle scheduled for Friday night has been canceled.

 

Superintendent Rusty Arnold is closely monitoring the situation, and if you have any questions, you contact Arnold at 620-496-4706.

 

Update on Winter Schedule for Coffeyville Public Schools

 

Coffeyville Public Schools' Board of Education Office has posted an updated winter schedule for its schools.

 

For ELC and CES starting November 30th, classes will be held onsite with Wednesdays remaining as remote learning. As for Roosevelt Middle School and Field Kinley High School, this period of time will be exclusively remote learning. This will continue until the end of the semester on December 18th. The break will last until January 5th with January 6th through the 8th being remote learning for all schools. On January 11th, onsite classes will resume with Wednesdays continuing to be remote learning.

 

All winter activities and athletics will continue as planned.

Miami, OK Names New City Manager

 

The city of Miami in Oklahoma announced Tuesday that Bo Reese has been named the new city manager.

 

Reese has 29 years of experience working in government management in the state of Oklahoma. The Miami native retired at his position of Chief Technology Officer at the Oklahoma Department of Transportation. He held the title of State Chief Information Officer for six years starting in 2014. In years prior, he had been Chief Operations Officer and Deputy Administrator of the Employees Group Insurance Division from 2010-13. He was the CIO of EGID from 2004-10, and EGID's Director of Technology from 2000-04.

 

Reese will begin his new position starting on January 1st, 2021. Tyler Cline will remain his interim city manager duties until then.

Two Arrested For Theft, Drug Possession

 

A Neosho County couple have been arrested on a variety of charges including theft.

 

Deputies with the Neosho County Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant for stolen property at a residence in St. Paul. Deputies were searching for property linked to burglaries and thefts of two separate businesses in St. Paul. Deputies recovered a significant amount of property belonging to both businesses.

 

Arrested were 52-year-old Dustin Rice and 45-year-old Michelle Rice both of St. Paul. Charges include burglary of a non-dwelling, burglary of a vehicle, possession of stolen property, theft, and cultivation of marijuana. Both are currently being held at the Neosho County Jail. The investigation is on-going.

 

If anyone has information regarding property received from either individual, please contact the Neosho County Sheriff's Office at 620-244-3888.

KDOT Announces Approved September Bids

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation announced approved bids for state highway construction and maintenance projects in Kansas on Sept. 16th in Topeka. Included in the bid process were projects in southeast Kansas.

 

In Woodson County, The bridge over South Big Creek located 13.5 miles northwest of Yates Center will be replaced by B&B Bridge Company of St. Paul, KS at a cost of just over $525,000.

 

In Bourbon and Crawford counties, U.S. 69 from three miles north of the Arma city limits to just north of the county line will be graded and resurfaced by Bob Bergkamp Construction of Wichita at a cost of $21.6 million.

 

The dates on these projects will be announced at a later date.

Pitt State Announces Changes to Spring Calendar

 

Pittsburg State University announced today that changes have been made to the university’s spring calendar to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 on campus and in the community.

 

The spring semester will start as scheduled on Jan. 19th. Spring Break, originally scheduled for the week of March 22nd, has been moved to the end of the spring semester during the week of May 10th. Dead week will be the week of April 26th, and finals week will be the week of May 3rd. Spring commencement will move to May 7th and 8th.

 

The changes align with the approach PSU is taking this fall to reflect virus mitigation best practices; the university will dismiss face-to-face classes on Nov. 20th and finish the semester online.

Political Sign Destroyed and Stolen in Coffeyville

 

A Coffeyville resident has a political sign destroyed and stolen. A video was posted on Snapchat of the suspect entering the resident's yard and kicking the sign before removing it from the property. A police report has been filed with the Coffeyville Police Department, who are looking into the incident. Screenshots of the incident have been passed along to CPD.

 

Police Captain Darin Daily says damage to or theft of political signs is considered a misdemeanor.

Five New Cases of COVID-19 at Indy High

 

USD 446 has been notified by the Montgomery County Health Department that four students and a staff member at Independence High School have tested positive for COVID-19. The district has temporarily closed off areas of the building that were used by the individuals so that it can be disinfected.

 

Superintendent Rusty Arnold says all students and staff identified as close contacts have been notified. The individuals who have tested positive for COVID-19 and those identified as close contacts will not be allowed to return to school for at least 14 days from the date of exposure. Remote Learning is available to those students while in quarantine. If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Arnold at 620-496-4706 or rarnold@indyschools.com.

Kansas Sees Growing Numbers in Identity Thefts

 

The Kansas Department of Labor has recognized that there has been an unprecedented number of identity thefts occurring in the state, recently.

 

The KDOL announced that these identity thefts have been used in order to make fraudulent unemployment claims. They have prevented 45,000 false claims so far.

 

Among many of the measures the KDOL has taken includes doubling the size of the fraud and special investigation unit and creating a website for these instances. The website is www.reportfraudks.gov which allows Kansas residents to not only report suspicious activity but also provide tips on how you can prevent this from happening to you.

Brief Power Outage in Downtown Coffeyville

 

Parts of downtown Coffeyville suffered a brief power outage Wednesday morning. Several businesses were without power for about 30 minutes from around 8:50 to 9:20 am.

 

Coffeyville Municpal Light & Power crews were called to the scene and were able to restore power to the area. Any issues should be reported to the CML&P operator's desk at 620-252-6180.

Kansas Celebrates 41st Annual National Activities Week

 

Governor Laura Kelly proclaims next week as National Activities Week in the state of Kansas which will be the 41st consecutive year that the state of Kansas has recognized this celebration. 

 

The week will begin Sunday with National Be A Sport Day, and it will continue all the way through Saturday, October 17th.

 

According to the Kansas State High School Activities Association, the goal of this week is to increase the public’s awareness and appreciation of activity programs with a special emphasis on sportsmanship.

 

For the full calendar including all the activities and how you can participate in National Activities Week, visit the full article on KSHSAA's website.

Students and Staff Go Into Quarantine in Parsons

 

Students and staff at Garfield Elementary School in Parsons have gone into quarantine after receiving a notice of a positive case of COVID-19.

 

Students have received computer equipment so that they may continue to learn from home. The students and staff member will not be allowed to return to school for 14 days and are asked to take a COVID-19 test if they develop symptoms.

 

Students and staff may return to school after the 14-day quarantine if they don't exhibit any symptoms during that time and are released by the Labette County Health Department.

Indy City Commission Considering Partnership to Expand Health Care Center

 

The Independence City Commission will consider a request to partner with Labette Health to expand the Independence Health Care Center.

 

The Economic Development Advisory Board has recommended approval of the incentive request, which would take the form of a $250,000 forgiveable loan that would be dispersed over a 5-year period. The first payment would come on March 1, 2023, and then on March 1 through each of the next four years. The incentive would be paid using the proposed Special-Use Sales Tax renewal, which has yet to be approved. Five percent of that renewal will go to economic development.

 

As always, the biweekly meeting of the city commission will be held at 5:30 p.m. at Memorial Hall. The meeting is also available to be viewed on Facebook or via conference call.

IHS Athletics Events Canceled

 

Tuesday night, it was announced that Independence High School has canceled multiple athletics events.

 

All levels of volleyball at Chanute were canceled last night as well as their soccer match at Riverton. It has also been announced that the varsity football game at Circle scheduled for Monday, October 12th, has been canceled along with football practices for the remainder of this week, according to the IHS Athletics Twitter page.

 

Tuesday morning, it was announced that a high school student had tested positive for COVID-19.

CCC Spring Enrollment Opens Next Week

 

It is time to start thinking about spring enrollment at Coffeyville Community College. Director of College Relations Yvonne Hull says spring enrollment starts October 14th.

 

Hull says if you are looking to graduate this December the registration deadline for fall graduation is October 13th.

 

Cherryvale Receives Coronavirus Grant

 

The City of Cherryvale has announced that the Cherryvale Public Works Department has been awarded a Coronavirus Food Assistance Program Community Involvement Grant of just under $33,000.

 

These funds will be utilized in cleaning up the north shoreline of Lake Tanko, filling in the small pond of water, and treating the vegetation issues. Clint Dean, Ryan Bowen, Jonathan Booe, and Amber Dean worked together on writing the application of this grant.

 

Caney Woman Arrested after Domestic Disturbance Call

 

A Caney woman arrested late last week after hitting another woman on the head with a rock. Friday night at around 9:45pm officers with the Caney Police Department were dispatched to 801 N. Wood St. in reference to a domestic disturbance call. Upon officers arrival they found a female victim suffering from a head wound as a result of being hit in the head with a rock.

 

Officers arrested 58-year-old Michelle Robertson of Caney for aggravated battery. Police Chief Kevin Kitterman says Robertson was transported to the Montgomery County Jail where she was booked for aggravated battery.

Independence High School Student Tests Positive for COVID-19

 

USD 446 in Independence has been informed by the Montgomery County Health Department that a high school student has tested positive for COVID-19.

 

Per the school's protocol, areas that the student has used have been temporarily closed off to be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected.

 

The individual and all identified as close contacts will not be allowed to return to school for at least 14 days from the date of exposure; however, they will have access to remote learning. All students and staff identified as close contacts have been notified. 

 

If you have questions, please contact Rusty Arnold at (620) 496-4706.

Mudjacking on K-47 and K-39

 

Kansas Department of Transportation will perform mudjacking operations on the K-47 bridge just west of St. Paul today and on two K-39 bridges east of Chanute on Wednesday and Thursday.

 

Flaggers will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. each day. You can expect some brief delays while these construction projects take place.

 

For updated construction information and road conditions, go to www.kandrive.org or call 511.

Fire Prevention Week in Kansas

 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has declared October to be Fire Prevention Month with Fire Prevention Week being through the rest of this week.

 

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment is working to educate everyone on kitchen safety. Cooking is the number one cause of house fires with over 2,000 residential cooking-related fires occurring every year in Kansas.

 

Staying in the kitchen, using a timer and avoiding distractions such as electronics or TV are steps everyone can take to keep families safe in their homes.

 

For more information on how you can protect yourself and your family, visit the Office of the State Marshall's website.

Woman Arrested on Chautauqua County Warrant

 

A 39-year-old woman was arrested in Caney on a warrant out of Chautauqua County.

 

Officers with Caney PD made contact with a Peru woman at Dollar General who was wanted in Chautauqua County on multiple Forgery charges. The woman was identified as Regina Palmer and she was arrested without incident and transported to the Chautauqua County Jail. Palmer faces multiple Forgery charges stemming from checks stolen from a residence in Caney being forged and passed in Chautauqua County.

 

The Caney Police Department assisted the Sedan Police Department with the investigation.

 

Warmer Temperatures Expected This Week

 

It'll feel a little less like fall this week, as temperatures warm up across much of southeast Kansas.

 

The National Weather Service in Wichita is reporting that higher temperatures can be expected for at least the next three days. Wednesday will be the hottest of the trio, with some areas possibly reaching the low 90s.

 

Temperatures will be close to record highs, but the NWS does not expect those records to be broken.

Kansas AG: Entertainment Guilds Should Help Reduce Youth Expose to Tobacco Imagery

 

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt has joined 42 other state and territory attorneys general in suggesting that the entertainment industry take steps to help reduce the exposure of youth to tobacco imagery in video content.

 

Schmidt and the attorneys general have sent letters to five guilds of the creative community, urging the streaming industry to limit tobacco imagery in their content. In 2012, the U.S. Surgeon General concluded that watching movies with tobacco imagery increases the likelihood that adolescents will become smokers.

 

In the letters, the bipartisan coalition has urged the creative guilds to depict tobacco imagery more responsibly while still supporting creative freedoms. The letters encourage the streaming community to take several steps, including:

 

  • Adopt best practices that steer young viewers away from content with tobacco imagery, including excluding tobacco imagery in future content targeting children;
  • Only recommend and promote tobacco-free titles for children and families; 
  • Mitigate the historic and cumulative impact of watching tobacco imagery by running strong anti-tobacco spots, especially before content with smoking or vaping;
  • Display prominent and forceful tobacco warnings before content with tobacco imagery; and
  • Offer effective parental controls, so families may be empowered to choose smoke-free content.

 

Full copies of the letters sent to the creative guilds can be seen here.

 

West Elk Preschool to Quarantine After Positive Test

 

The Elk County Health Department has informed the West Elk School District (USD 282) of another confirmed COVID case. The staff member in question teaches preschool AM and PM classes.

 

The entire preschool and staff have been identified as "close contacts" and will be required to quarantine. Other additional staff members, including superintendent Martin Burke, will be in mandatory quarantine as well. 

 

Information on secondary contacts can be seen by visiting the most recent health update video on the West Elk Schools Facebook page, or by visiting the school website Facebook link.

Pittsburg Man Arrested on Rape, Indecent Liberties Charges

 

A 19-year-old man has been arrested on several charges including rape.

 

Crawford County Sheriff's Office investigator's arrested Dante Mikael Martinez on a warrant for Rape and Aggravated Indecent Liberties with a Child under the age of 14. The arrest was a result of an investigation by the CCSO in which Martinez has been accused of inappropriate sexual contact with a child in the summer of 2019.

 

Martinez is currently being held at the Crawford County jail in lieu of a $250,000 bond. The investigation into this incident remains ongoing.

Man Arrested with Stolen Vehicle and Handgun, Explosive Device

 

A Parsons man was arrested early Saturday morning on a laundry list of charges, including criminal possession of explosives.

 

A Labette County Sheriff's deputy was initially dispatched on a report of a reckless driver heading north on Gove and Gray Road. The deputy then located the vehicle in question, which had been involved in a single-car accident and had come to rest in a ditch. The deputy also located the driver, Tyler Dwaine Vickrey of Parsons.

 

Dispatch informed the deputy that Vickrey had a suspended license. Vickrey then fled the scene as the deputy approached, but was arrested after a minor scuffle. During the investigation, deputies were also informed that the vehicle was stolen out of Wichita, and also discovered a handgun that had been stolen out of Fredonia. After discovering the firearm, deputies then discovered an explosive device and halted the search.

 

The Kansas Highway Patrol bomb squad was notified and called to the scene, where they were able to remove the device and determine that it was a live device. After the vehicle was rendered clear and safe to search, officers found various items related to the distribution of methamphetamine.

 

Vickrey was booked into the Labette County jail on charges including, but not limited to, distribution of methamphetamine, criminal possession of explosives, possession of stolen property, and resisting arrest. 

Labette Extends Disaster Declaration into 2021

 

The Labette County Commission extended the County Disaster Declaration at their most recent meeting. This is the fourth time the commissioners have extended the declaration. The commissioners voted to extend the disaster declaration for sixty days which extends it into 2021. Emergency Management Director Charlie Morse says the reason they extended the disaster declaration is they can be eligible for state aid.

 

In other business, the commissioners received an update from Parsons Economic Development Director Jim Zaleski regarding SPARK. Applications for SPARK are still open.

 

Upcoming Parent Committee Election for USD 445 Indian Education

 

The scheduled election of the Johnson-O'Malley (JOM) Parent Committee will be taking place this Wedneday, October 7th at the Field Kindley High School Library. The election will take place starting at 6 p.m.

 

To serve on the JOM Parent Committee, a person must be the parent or guardian of a JOM verified child. School board members, school administrators, school employes, or spouses of any of the preceding positions cannot serve on the committee.

 

For more information on Wednesday's election, contact USD 445 Indian Education Program Director Kris Crane at 620-252-6420 ext. 13201. Alternatively, you may email cranek@cvilleschools.com.

Busy Slate at Montgomery County Commission Meeting

 

A proposal by the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1186 in Independence was made asking the county commissioners to create two Veteran Service Representative jobs.  No decision was made, but the commission declared they would review the proposal during the upcoming weeks.

 

Three representatives from the Kansas Department of Transportation stopped by the meeting to give a few brief updates on construction projects in southeast Kansas. They noted that all projects are going according to plan thanks to the weather permitting no delays.

 

Additionally, a budget increase was passed for the correctional facility by a little over $2,800 a month, and a warranty was extended for a county-owned John Deere 310SL Backhoe.

KDOT Labels October as Pedestrian Safety Month

 

 

 

It’s important for pedestrians, drivers, and other road users to always remember that pedestrian safety is a two-way street. That is why the Kansas Department of Transportation is participating in Pedestrian Safety Month in October, a traffic safety campaign created by the U.S. DOT’s National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

In 2018, there were 6,283 pedestrians killed in traffic crashes in the United States, accounting for 17% of all traffic fatalities. This equals a traffic-related pedestrian death every 84 minutes. Between 2008-2018, Kansas saw a 53% increase in pedestrian fatalities. Advancements in vehicle safety have increased survivability for occupants in crashes; however, pedestrians are still vulnerable.

 

For more information, visit the KDOT webpage at http://www.ksdot.org/burRail/bike/default.asp

 

 

Woman Killed in Accident

 

One woman is dead and another possibly injured in a wreck in northern Wilson County over the weekend.

 

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2014 Toyota Tundra driven by 83-year-old Barbara Miller of Benedict was making a left hand turn onto U.S. 75 from K-39 when she was struck by a 2014 Freightliner driven by 29-year-old Onkar Singh of Lenexa who was headed southbound on U.S. 75.

 

Miller was pronounced dead at the scene while Singh had a complaint of pain but was not taken to a medical facility.

Economic Development Corporation Announces Recognition Award Winners

 

The Cherokee County Economic Development Corporation announced the recipients of the 2020 Recognition Awards, celebrating local businesses and organizations that benefit the county.

 

The Cherokee County Health Department received the 2020 Community Impact Award which recognizes a business or organization that has positively influenced the quality of life in Cherokee County.

 

The 2020 Rising Star Award went to Decades of Wheels while TAMKO Building Products is the recipient of the 2020 Business Growth Award.

 

To round out the list, the 2020 Hall of Fame Award was granted to American Bank.

K-39 Resurfacing Projects to Start in Wilson and Neosho Counties

 

Starting next week, the Kansas Department of Transportation will begin work on two projects to resurface K-39.

 

The combined project area starts at the U.S. 400 junction at Fredonia and continues east to end at the U.S. 169 junction at Chanute. 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.

 

Bettis Asphalt & Construction, Inc., of Topeka, is the contractor on the projects, which have a construction cost of $2.5 million.

COVID Scams in Kansas

 

The Kansas Division of Emergency Management has alerted that there have been more COVID-19 scams throughout the state.

 

KDEM reminded Kansas residents in a Facebook post that local public health officials will never come to your home to test you for COVID-19. There had been similar scams back in July, but some more have arisen recently.

 

If this happens to you or anyone you know, be sure to contact your local law enforcement immediately.

One Dies in Car Crash North of Dewey

 

One person has died and another is in critical condition following a two car accident on Highway 75 at County Road 1200 north of Dewey.

 

Dewey Fire Lieutenant Mike Black said they were dispatch to the scene around 11:30 a.m. on Thursday. Lt. Black said there were three patients total. He said the two critical patients were pinned in their vehicle, so the Dewey Fire Department and Copan Fire Department began to extricate both victims out of the vehicle immediately.

 

Bartlesville EMS took both of the critical patients to Ascension St. John Jane Phillips in Bartlesville. Lt. Black said one of the patients was later flown by helicopter to a hospital in Tulsa. He said a third ambulance was called for a non-critical, third patient.

 

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Washington County Sheriff's Office, the Dewey Fire Department, the Copan Fire Department, the Dewey Police Department and Washington County Emergency Management cleared the scene at approximately 12:15 p.m. on Thursday.

 

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol announced on Thursday evening that 77-year-old Carol Fink of Dewey was pronounced deceased by medical personnel upon arrival at the hospital. Fink's passenger, a 66-year-old male named Donna Errand of Dallas, Oregon was admitted to the St. Francis Medical Center in Tulsa with trunk internal and arm injuries.

 

Deborah Sharpe, 61, of Coffeyville, was admitted to Ascension St. John Jane Phillips in good condition with trunk external and trunk internal injuries.

West Elk Student Tests Positive for COVID-19

 

The Elk County Health Department has notified the West Elk school district that a high school student has tested positive for COVID-19. The test was taken Thursday afternoon. The student has been quarantined and will return to school upon the approval of Elk County Health.

 

County and state contract tracing protcols have been followed, with 33 high school students and two staff members needing to quarantine at this time. Students that have been identified as close contacts have been notified.

 

Sedan School District Superintendent Kay Hill announced through Facebook that no students would need to quarantine at this time, despite West Elk facing Sedan in a volleyball match the day prior. Hill urged everyone to always seek credible information in situations like these.

UPDATE: Two Inmates Escape Detention Center

 

One of the inmates who escaped from the Ottawa County Jail in Oklahoma has been captured.

 

The Miami Police Department arrested 23-year-old Justin Eby Thursday afternoon. MPD are still looking for 38-year-old Jerry Nichols. Nichols is believed to have been last seen on East St. NW in Miami.

 

MPD thanked all police agencies in their search for the escapees, but asks for them to remain vigilant. They have scaled back their search, but are still looking for the remaining criminal.

 

If you see him or know of his whereabouts, contact the Miami Police Department at (918)-542-5585, but do not approach him because he could be armed and dangerous.

The Past Lives On In Coffeyville

 

Even though the Dalton Defenders Day was canceled this year due to COVID-19 concerns, the Coffeyville Historical Society has planned an event on Friday and Saturday called “The Past Lives On In Coffeyville.” Kris Crane with the Coffeyville Historical Society explains what this event will entail and examples of who will be there.

 

Other events coinciding with this event will be the Midland Foundation be showing Ferris Bueller's Day Off on Friday night beginning at dusk and the History Channel's documentary of the 1892 Dalton Gang Raid on Saturday night at around the same time.

 

Also on Saturday, the Farmer's Market will move closer to the downtown plaza and will begin at 7 am and the Dancing Eagles will perform on the plaza beginning at 11:30 am.

 

For more information about this event, contact the Dalton Museum at 620-251-0431.

Two Inmates Escape Detention Center

 

Two inmates have escaped from the Ottawa County Jail in Oklahoma.

 

The Miami Police Department is looking for the two inmates who have been identified as 23-year-old Justin Eby and 38-year-old Jerry Nichols.

 

Miami PD asks if you know of their whereabouts that you contact them immediately at (918) 542-5585, but do not approach them as they could be armed and dangerous.

Cowan Appointed as Assistant City Manager

 

Former Director of Safety and Code Enforcement David Cowan has been appointed to serve as assistant city manager for the city of Independence.

 

City Manager Kelly Passauer announced the appointment during a special meeting on Wednesday. Cowan is in his 34th year of service with the city. As part of his new position, he will oversee the operations of several departments, including Fire/EMS, Park & Zoo, Public Works, Utilities, the Building Department, Code Enforcement and Memorial Hall. Some of these departments were already overseen by Cowan in his previous role.

 

Cowan's appointment was described by Passauer as the first step in a "broader reorganization plan" requested by city commissioners. The goal is to mirror the structure of many corporate entities, with one manager dealing with external entities and executive level planning while the other manager deals with daily operational duties.

West Elk Staff Member Tests Positive for COVID-19

 

The Elk County Health Department has informed the West Elk school district that a food service staff member has tested positive for COVID-19.

 

The district was notified Wednesday afternoon. The staff member had not been to work this week, and had not left their home since last Friday with the exception of going to see a physician. Proper quarantine protocols for the individual have already been enacted, with the staff member returning to work after receiving Elk County Health Department approval.

 

No additional staff members, students or community members have been required to quarantine after application of county and state contact tracing protocols.

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