The Dalton Defenders Days returns this year after being canceled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Plenty of activities are planned for Friday and Saturday. Coffeyville Historical Society Board of Directors member Nelson Riley gives the lineup for Friday.

CHS Board member Amy Dollar also tells us the Saturday lineup.

The Coffeyville Historical Society also said they will keep the Dalton Defenders Museum until 8 pm on Friday and 6:30 pm Saturday.

The Tom Mix Museum in Dewey will be holding their “Mix'n It Up Under The Stars" fundraiser in just a few weeks in October.

The fundraiser will be held at the Timber Oaks Event Center just three miles west of downtown Bartlesville on October 15^th beginning at 5 pm. Museum Manager Fawn Lassiter tells us what we can expect at this fundraiser.

Headlining all of the events will be country singer Belinda Gail. Tickets for the event are $50 for adults and $10 for children 12 and under. To order tickets call the museum at 918-534-1555.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, Neodesha Police Department, and Wilson County Sheriffs Office arrested two men after they discovered over 82 pounds of methamphetamine in their vehicle. On Wednesday night around 11:50 PM, an officer conducted a traffic stop for speeding at the 400 block of Main Street. Probable cause to search the vehicle was established and methamphetamine was found.

The approximated street value for the methamphetamine is $3.7 million. Alejandro Salazar the driver of the vehicle was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell, possession of drug paraphernalia, and driving without a valid license. The passenger of the vehicle Roger Mercado was arrested on charges of possession of methamphetamine with intent to sell and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The Neosho County Sheriffs Office has seen a significant increase in thefts on the east side of the county. The Sheriffs Office is investigating the thefts with help from Crawford County Sheriffs Office, Pittsburg PD, and Labette County Sheriffs Office. All the thefts appear to be related.

Yesterday Zachary Hawn was arrested in connection with a burglary along Highway 47. Neosho County Sheriffs Office strongly encourages people to keep their property locked and keys removed from vehicles. If anyone has any information about the thefts you can contact Under Sheriff Adam Bennett at 620-244-3888.

A local band will be among the acts at Dalton Defenders Days this weekend. Straight Away hails from Independence and Bartlesville and features drummer/vocalist Dana Lee, guitarist Tommy Joe Lawrence and bassist/vocalist TJ Makara.

The band plays classic rock covers, but also plays their own original music as well. Lee said their original music comes from their own experiences.

If you can't catch the band this weekend, you'll also be able to hear them as a featured act at Neewollah later this month.

The 4^th Annual Bartlesville Radio Wedding and Celebration Showcase is this Sunday at Timber Oaks Event Venue from 1:00pm to 5:00pm. Organizer Dorea Potter says this event has a relaxed come-and-go setting.

Potter says this event is for all types of celebrations, not just weddings. She says even if you have most of your event planned she encourages you to come out because you could win some door prizes.

The Coffeyville Legislative Forums are coming up next week, with the city commission and two school forums being held on different days. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says to come out and support the candidates and learn more about each one.

Westbrook says if you would like a specific question to be asked to the candidates you can submit them by email, calling the chamber or visiting their website. Questions have to be submitted by tomorrow.

Yesterday at approximately 7:42 PM Officers with the Caney Police Department responded to a call in the 200 block of South Wood St. Upon arrival Offices learned that a suspect in the case fled on foot. Officers located 25-year-old Kodey Andruslis in the 500 block of South Wood. While being detained Officers found drugs and drug paraphernalia on Andruslis.

Andruslis was arrested and taken to Montgomery County Jail on recommended charges of possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia. Upon further investigation into the incident Offices also arrest 26-year-old Katy Kelso for domestic battery. Kelso was also transported to the Montgomery County Jail on recommended charges of domestic battery.

Pittsburg State University reported that 40 students were tested for COVID-19 at the Bryant Student Health Center from September 22^nd to the 28^th. Of those 40 students only one tested positive and five are currently in isolation.

During the same time period, no faculty members reported an infection. The Bryant Student Health Center can only report the cases that get tested at the Health Center. Quarantine numbers are strictly managed by Crawford County Health Department.

Three people were injured in a two-car crash in Cherokee County Tuesday afternoon.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a 2020 Dodge driven by 91-year old Byron Wolf of Highlandville, Missouri was headed southbound on U.S. 69 when it was struck in the intersection of U.S. 69 / U.S. 160 by a 2010 Ford Edge driven by 57-year-old John Hanan of Columbus who was headed westbound on U.S. 160.

Wolf and his passenger 88-year-old Jessie Wolf were transported to Freeman Hospital in Joplin with serious and minor injuries, respectively. Hanan received no injuries but his passenger 85-year-old Peggy Long of Columbus received minor injuries and was treated at the scene.

Seatbelts were in use in both vehicles.

They’ve caused a stir in a lot of places around Kansas this past summer, legions of armyworms attacking home lawns. K-State Crop Entomologist Jeff Whitworth says the worry for winter wheat producers is whether those armyworms will migrate to the wheat fields.

Whitworth says the best way to manage armyworms will be to plant as late as possible.  Whitworth says in the meantime, wheat growers should stay alert for armyworm activity in areas where they’ll be planting wheat in the coming weeks.

As October approaches, that means Neewollah is just around the corner. This Saturday, Neewollah headquarters will open up to purchase merchandise and tickets.

Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson explains that buying merchandise and tickets will be a little different than in years past.

Wilson went on to say that beginning on Monday, October 4^th, all Neewollah purchases will be available at the 107 North Penn location from 10 am to 6 pm Monday thru Friday and on Saturdays from 10 am to 2 pm.

For more information, contact the Neewollah headquarters during business hours at 1-877-633-9655.

The Cherokee County Sheriffs Office and Columbus Police Department are looking for information on two vehicle thefts that happened over the weekend.

Two Chevy Silverado's were stolen one from Columbus and the other one in Cherokee County. If you have any tips or information about the thefts call Cherokee County Sheriffs Office at 620-429-3992.

Nowata County has a new job opening up at the end of this week. The county commissioners met for a brief meeting to start the week. The board approved a continuance of an agreement with the Cherokee Nation for detention services. This is the third time the agreement has been extended.

The commissioners also informed the public that they will have an opening for a secretary position. The current secretary's last day is Friday. The board will be posting the position soon. Later in the meeting, the commissioners observed the eight-year bridge plan from the circuit engineering district. The board had no issues with the plans but observed that projects that were slated to be let in November have been pushed back to the spring.

Beginning next year, children in Columbus will have a new way to cool off as a splash pad will open in Columbus.

The 2,200-square-foot splash pad, which will have sprayers, water buckets, and a variety of other activities to partake in, will be constructed at Discovery Park in Downtown Columbus.

The addition was funded by the Hatfield and Houser families who each contributed $75,000 for the project. In addition to the splash pad, benches will be placed around the splash pad. Power Play, of Bixby, Oklahoma is the contractor on the project.

The splash pad will officially open to the public next spring.

The Labette County Commission is putting a burn ban in place in the county. Emergency Management Director Charlie Morse says since Wednesday of last week there have been several fires in the county.

Morse says the county fire chiefs contacted him to ask the county commissioners to enact a burn ban.  Morse says there can be exceptions made for burning but for agricultural purposes only. In addition to the burn ban in the county, there will also be a ban in Edna, Oswego and Chetopa. The ban won't officially be in place until Thursday, but Morse and the commissioners and recommending no one burns effective immediately.

The BNSF Railway will close and repair its crossing on K-7 north of Columbus next Monday, Oct. 4.

The work will begin at 6 am and continue into the evening, K-7 traffic will be closed at the work zone. Traffic will be redirected to the detour on US 160 and US 400.

USD 461 Neodesha will host a Senior Financial Aid and Promise Scholarship Night.

This event is intended to help parents and students fill out the FAFSA forms. You are asked to please bring your 2020 IRS 1040 form to assist in the process.

The event will be on October 6^th at 6 pm in the Middle School Commons area. Dinner will be provided for the evening.

To RSVP, contact Valon Jones at vjones@usd461.org or call 620-325-3015.

The Pittsburg Parks and Rec. Department will be hosting its Kid's Garage Sale On October 2^nd.

Pittsburg Parks and Recreation holds three kids' garage sales each year. These events encourage parents to allow children to work on their money skills by counting back change to patrons, and learning how to sell old clothes and toys.

Rain or shine this event will be held at Lincoln Center (710 W. 9th St.) on Saturday, October 2, from 9:00 am-noon. If you have any questions regarding the event you can contact the Pittsburg Parks & Recreation Department at (620) 231-8310.

A Caney man has been arrested on multiple charges including Felon in Possession of Firearm and Drug Charges.

Over the weekend, Caney Police made a traffic stop in the 200 block of East 10th Street. Upon stopping the vehicle, the driver was identified as 34-year-old Matthew Dunham who was known to them to be driving without a driver’s license. An investigation revealed the vehicle had an open title and no insurance. Dunham was arrested and after obtaining a search warrant for the vehicle, a 9 MM Smith and Wesson pistol, drug paraphernalia, marijuana, and methamphetamines were discovered.

Dunham is currently being held in the Montgomery County Jail facing charges of Felon in possession of a firearm, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, Possession of methamphetamines, No insurance, and No Driver’s License.

Dunham is currently on probation for drug charges in Montgomery County and faces possible revocation of that probation, because of these charges.

The Labette County Health Department released its COVDI-19 update for the month of September. Labette County had 3,358 cases with 18 currently active in the month of September.

3,281 people recovered from COVID-19 with 63 hospitalized and 59 deaths all in the month of September. Some ways to help stop the spread are to wear a mask, avoid big crowds, and if you are feeling sick or have symptoms stay home.

The Dalton Defenders Days are this Friday and Saturday. On Friday you can go to downtown Coffeyville from 4-9 for food vendors, square dancing, a reenactment, and much more.

On Saturday you can come on out from 9-6:45 and experience the Coffeyville Community College Choir, Native American dancers, turtle races, and much more.

Labette County Clerk Gena Landis has announced that the recall petition filed against County Commissioner Brian Kinzie has surpassed the required amount of signatures of registered voters.

According to Landis, her office received 1,607 signatures. After 274 signatures were dropped 1,333 signatures still remained on the petition. 1,202 signatures were needed to force a special election to recall Kinzie. A special election will be scheduled sometime this week asking the voters in the 2^nd district if they would like to remove Kinzie from office.

Kinzie has yet to publicly respond.

A film depicting the infamous Dalton Gang's ill-fated raid of Coffeyville is now available to purchase.

Death Alley, which made its premiere earlier this year, can now be purchased in DVD form. The film tells the tale of the Daltons' ultimately futile quest to become the most notorious gang in the Wild West by robbing two banks at the same time.

The DVD includes commentary from the director in addition to featurettes exploring modern-day Coffeyville. You can purchase the DVD straight from the film's website here.

CVR Energy will be conducting a siren test later this week.

The test will begin at 10 am this Wednesday, September 29th. There are two sirens in town: one located west of Linden Street between Fourth and Fifth Streets, and one located at First and Maple Streets.

The sirens are tested regularly to ensure proper opeartion. If you have questions, feel free to contact CVR Partners, LP at 620-251-4000.

A burn ban is being put in place in Labette County. The ban comes on recommendation from Emergency Management Director Charlie Morse. The burn ban will officially be in place starting Thursday but Morse and the commissioners are encouraging citizens to not burn effective immediately.

Morse says with dry conditions area fire chiefs are worried if there is a fire it could get out of control quickly. The ban will also be in effect in Oswego, Chetopa and Edna and will be in place until further notice. There can be an exception made for burns by fire chiefs but only for agricultural purposes.

Arvest Bank and KGGF have chosen a Vinita FFA student as the September Ag Student of the Month. Vinita FFA Advisor Todd Blocker says he nominated Chapter President Emily Lake for a number of reasons.

One of the things that the Vinita FFA Chapter does differently than most chapters is growing and selling crops through their Farmer's Market. Lake, who is one of the students in charge of the market, says this has taught her the importance of organization.  Lake says she wants to become a veterinarian one day and she hopes the skills she's learned in FFA will help accomplish that. You can see the full interview with Lake on the KGGF Facebook page.

A Coffeyville man is arrested in Caney on burglary and drug charges. Yesterday around 2:30am, the Caney Police Department was notified of a burglary in progress at the apartment complex located at 215 E. 10th St. Officers arrested 47-year-old Jarod Wayne Johnston at the scene.

Investigation into the incident revealed Johnston had cut a screen on a window to climb through. The occupant of the apartment saw Johnston and called the police. The victim and Johnston had been in a previous relationship but were not together at this time. Johnston was arrested and transported to the Montgomery County Jail where he faces charges of aggravated burglary, possession of opiates and possession of marijuana.

One person was left injured after a crash in Crawford County.

Mary New made an improper turn onto K47, she then collided with Vehicle 2, Vehicle 2 then went into the southbound ditch, over-corrected, and went across both lanes of travel and collided with Vehicle 3. Only New was injured and she was sent to Ascension Via Christi in Pittsburg.

All passengers were wearing their seatbelt

The Sedan Police Department is seeking any information regarding a stolen deer head.

Sometime between the hours of 11 pm on September 22nd and 7 am on September 23^rd, a deer head was stolen from the backyard in the 200 block of South Montgomery.

Anyone with any information helpful to this investigation is encouraged to report it by calling 620-725-3108

Motorists who use U.S. Highway 54 between Yates Center and Eureka will need to give themselves some extra time as the Kansas Department of Transportation expects to begin a resurfacing project. The road work starts at the west K-99 junction and continues east to the city limits of Yates Center.

Project activity includes a mill and overlay. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide one-lane traffic through the work zone; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. The project should be completed by late autumn, weather permitting.

KDOT awarded the construction contract of $4.7 million to Shilling Construction of Manhattan.

Independence Community Colleges Fab Lab and Kansas State Research and Extension District are teaming up again to provide community education on food security, production, and management. Extension Horticulture Agent Jesse Gilmore will present a workshop on composting to reduce food waste on Wednesday, October 6^th at 5 PM.

The composting workshop will provide detailed instructions on how to compost food scraps to reduce landfill waste. The workshop is free of charge and open to the community. The class is first come first serve but there is an option to attend over zoom. For more information on the workshop or to register visit www.fablabicc.org.

Multiple fire departments respond to a fire near Havana. Firefighters from Tyro, Dearing, Coffeyville Resources, as well as Emergency Management and Coffeyville Fires hazmat team, responded alongside the Havana Fire Department to a tank battery fire.

Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson says that the citizens of Montgomery County have never lived under better protection. Mutual and automatic aid agreements have been universally signed. Every agency will cross jurisdictions and aid any other agency. City departments respond into the county and county departments into the cities. Whitson offers a special thanks to the only private fire department in the county, Coffeyville Resources for their willingness to support the entire county.

October will be a busy month for the Coffeyville Recreation Commission as plenty of events and activities will be available.

One of the activities that will be new at CRC is a Disc Golf Clinic. This clinic is for those who want to learn the basics of how to play. The registration fee is $10 and the deadline to sign up is October 8^th.

Another popular event also returns this year. CRC Program Director Shelli Stanley says this is an event everybody looks forward to.

Women's Volleyball and Adult Flag Football signups are also underway and the deadlines to sign up for those are October 1^st.

To register for any of these activities or events, contact CRC at 620-251-5910.

When it comes to microwaves, wattage equals power. A 1,000-watt microwave will cook quickly and efficiently, while microwaves with 700 watts or less are slower and may not cook evenly. Nutrition Specialist Sandy Procter says microwave popcorn is a good example of how cook times vary.

Procter says it’s important to follow the directions for allowing products to “rest” after microwaving. The resting time allows the residual heat to distribute throughout the food and reduces cold spots that can occur with foods that have been microwaved.

There will be a ribbon-cutting next week for new playground equipment at a park in Coffeyville.

Join the Chamber of Commerce at Pfister Park on Tuesday at 5:00pm for the ribbon cutting. The park is located on North Cline Road. The new equipment was funded through a $25,000 Grand River Dam Authority Community Assistance Program.

The Independence Police Department has located a teenager who was reported missing earlier this week.

Cameron Henry was reported missing at 4:55 pm on Monday from the 900 block of Crescent. Two days later, on Wednesday, he was located in Independence on the 800 block of South Second St.

Henry was identified by officers, and it was determined that he would not need police assistance. He is no longer considered missing at this time.

At Yesterdays City meeting the Independence Pandemic and Emergency team gave a COVID-19 update for Montgomery County. Montgomery County had 81 new cases over the weekend and that brings the County total to 5,014.

There have been 99 total deaths in the County with three more over the weekend. Statewide Kansas saw 2,462 new cases over the weekend with 46 hospitalized and 51 deaths.

Coffeyville voters will head to the polls on November 2^nd to decide if they want to extend the existing ½-cent sales tax that is set to expire on September 30^th, 2022.

The sales tax would be re-purposed for a number of different items around town including Downtown Coffeyville. Coffeyville City Manager Mark Hall explains how the sales tax extension will be used downtown.

Hall went on to say that since this is a sales tax, that it won't only be Coffeyville citizens paying for the improvements.

If the measure is approved by voters, the ½-cent sales tax will be collected for a 10-year period. At the end of the 10-year period, the tax will sunset and is only renewable by voter approval.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has announced that the BNSF Railway will close and repair its crossing east of the U.S. 400/K-7 junction at Cherokee next week.

The work is expected to begin at 7 a.m. Monday, Sept. 27, and continue through Wednesday, Sept. 29. U.S. 400 will be closed to traffic at the work zone. Traffic will detour on K-7, K-103, and U.S. 69.

For more information on this closure go to www.kandrive.org.

Next week is the final week for weekly Coffeyville News and Networking. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says instead of a weekly event they are going to be meeting monthly.

Westbrook says even with the change to the weekly CNN she will still be coming in weekly to discuss upcoming events among other things on Wednesdays at 9:10am on the Mighty 690 KGGF.

Pittsburg State University reported that 44 symptomatic students were tested for COVID-19 at the Bryant Student Health Center last week, of those only four tested positive.  In that same period of time, no staff members tested positive.

The only numbers the school can report are the ones that get tested at the campus health center. Quarantine numbers are strictly managed by Crawford County Health Department and the numbers can change daily.

Due to plumbing issues, the Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging has announced that Meals on Wheels will be closed today and Thursday.

Meal deliveries will resume on Monday, September 27^th.

This closing affects numerous areas including Parsons, Oswego, Chetopa, Edna, Bartlett, Altamont, Labette, Cherryvale, Fredonia, Mound Valley, Independence, Caney, Dearing, and Coffeyville.

For more information, contact the SEKAAA at 620-431-2980.

The 26^th Fall Forestry Field Day hosted by K-State is coming up in October and will be in Southeast Kansas. District Forester Ashley Belt says the field day will take place on a farm in Neosho County.

Belt says there are a number of speakers lined up discussing a few different topics.  Belt says this event is intended to inform participants about the value of managing their timber. The field day is Wednesday, October 13^th.

If the Kan-Okla 100 Mile Sale didn't scratch your bargain-hunting itch, you'll maybe want to check out an upcoming event just to the west of Coffeyville.

Fabulous Finds on Highway 99 covers Chautauqua, Marshall, Pottawatomie, Wabaunsee, Elk, Lyon, and Greenwood counties, and offers more than 200 miles of garage sales and booths set up in each of the participating communities. The event starts this Friday and ends the following day on Saturday.

For more information, including info on some of the various sales this weekend, check out the event's Facebook page here.

A former Coffeyville Community College assistant coach has passed away. Fredrick Moore collapsed during the Woodbridge High School varsity football game and later passed away. He was employed at the school as a math teacher and varsity football coach. Moore was with the Red Ravens in 2017 serving as a Student Life Manager and volunteer football coach working with the defensive backs and special teams.

CCC Foundation Executive Director Dickie Rolls says Moore was a great man and great coach, who loved everyone he came into contact with unconditionally. CCC Athletic Director and Head Football Coach Jeff Leiker says Coach Moore was a friend, mentor, tutor, and football coach while here at CCC. The college extends heartfelt thoughts and condolences to Moore’s family. He will always be remembered as a member of the Red Raven family.

A 47-year-old man has been arrested in Chanute on a pair of drug charges.

On Monday, Chanute Police observed a person in the 100 block of North Lincoln Avenue near a business after hours. Officers spoke with the person involved. After a short investigation, Officers arrested Michael Odom for a probation revocation warrant, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The investigation is still ongoing at this time. Upon completion, reports will be forwarded to Neosho County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of charges being filed.

The Independence City Commission will meet Thursday at 5:30 to discuss a variety of tops. One of those topics being the old City Hall Building that was built in 1916.

The City Commission will consider awarding a bid for Geotechnical services for the building. This bid is also for fire and EMS. The company they are considering is GSI Engineering.

A semi-truck driver has died following a rollover crash in northern Chautauqua County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, 65-year-old Richard Wilson of Americus was driving a tractor-trailer southbound in a construction zone on K-99 north of Sedan when the vehicle went off the roadway. Wilson overcorrected and the truck overturned, crushing the cab.

Wilson was declared dead at the scene. He was wearing his seatbelt.

The Community Elementary School Twister Boosters are currently having their catalog sale which is their biggest fundraiser of the year.

Twister Booster Member Martha Bond says there is plenty you can get from the catalog and different ways to shop.

Krista Hanna says that this fundraiser provides many things for the CES students.

For more questions on the fundraiser, contact the Twister Boosters on their Facebook page here.

On Sunday a domestic disturbance was reported to Caney Police in the 200 block of East 10^th Street. When officers arrived they discovered that a man and woman were involved in a physical altercation. According to the woman, she was struck in the face multiple times by 22-year-old Stephen Walden.

Walden fled on foot before officers arrived. The woman reported no injuries at the scene. If anyone knows where Walden is at they are asked to contact Caney Police. Walden is wanted for questioning concerning the incident.

The Montgomery County Commissioners approved the purchase of two new Mack trucks for Public Works. At past meetings, they gave the approval to start looking, and now the Commissioners gave the approval to purchase the trucks. Engines in other trucks are the cause of new trucks being purchased.

In other news jailers at the jail will now be rapid tested for COVID-19 after one employee had to wait six days for a positive test to come back from the state. The rapid test takes up to 15 minutes to get back.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has announced they have removed the watch levels of two area lakes. Big Hill Lake and Parsons Lake were removed from the watch level for blue-green algae.

Big Hill Lake was first put on the list in June after a high level of algae bloom had been detected. Parsons Lake was added in late July.

Two warnings and a watch remain for three lakes in the area. The Altamont City Lake – North Lake and Neosho State Fishing Lake are on the warning list while the Altamont City Lake – Main Lake continues to be on the watch list.

The KDHE updates the results weekly. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

CVR Energy will be conducting a siren test next week.

The test will begin at 10 am next Wednesday, September 29th. There are two sirens in town: one located west of Linden Street between Fourth and Fifth Streets, and one located at First and Maple Streets.

The sirens are tested regularly to ensure proper opeartion. If you have questions, feel free to contact CVR Partners, LP at 620-251-4000.

After a year's hiatus due to COVID-19, Old Iron Days will return to Fredonia starting this Thursday.

This year's event will start September 23rd and run through the 26th. It'll feature demonstrations of domestic and farm machinery. There'll also be musical entertainment, a tractor pull, and a parade on Saturday.

Everything will take place at the Rollin "Red" Vandever Memorial Park in Fredonia. A show admission button will cost $5, but children 12 and under enter for free. Demonstrations start at 8 am each day.

A woman from Imboden, Arkansas suffered a fatal injury during a crash in Neosho County.

Hazel Burgess was driving northbound on U59 when she failed to yield to another vehicle. The passenger of Burgess's Vehicle, Glenn Burgess, the driver of the other vehicle, Diego Perez, and Raymundo Perez Mendez all sustained a minor injury. Hazel Burgess did not survive the crash.

All of the victims of the crash were wearing their seatbelts.

A Missouri woman was injured in a two-vehicle crash north of Cherryvale. The crash occurred on U.S. 400 near the intersection of U.S. 169 north of Cherryvale Thursday.

A 2018 Buick driven by  Donna Davis was westbound on U.S. 400 when she crossed the center line and collided with a 2012 Ford F250 driven by William Jones. Jones was heading eastbound. Davis was taken to Wilson Medical Center in Neodesha with suspected serious injuries. Jones reported no injuries at the scene.

After an extended period of research and planning, the City of Independence has revamped its sanitation service. Beginning Monday, September 27, there will be new methods and a new schedule for trash pickup.

Every residential sanitation customer will receive a 95-gallon poly cart trash dumpster. The cart will be delivered to homes a few days prior to the new service launch. Each cart will be marked with the City of Independence logo and a serial number that is specific to the customer's address.

Trash collection frequency will be changing to once a week, rather than twice, as is currently the schedule in most residential neighborhoods. A map with the new pick-up schedule can be found here.

The Kansas Food Bank announced it has received a grant from the Fredonia Area Community Foundation to support its Food 4 Kids Weekend Backpack Program. The‌ ‌Food‌ ‌4‌ ‌Kids‌ ‌program‌ ‌provides‌ ‌kid-friendly,‌ ‌nutritious‌ food‌ ‌packets‌ for the weekend for children who experience chronic hunger.

During the 2020-21 school year, 66 children in Wilson County received the weekly food packets. The bank's school partners discreetly distribute these packets to children who need them each Friday.

Each child in the Food 4 Kids program tracked throughout the school year. Coordinators ensure that the child receives their packet each week, and their academic progress is also monitored. Representatives report that they consistently see improvements in the children they serve including better grades, fewer sick days and fewer behavioral issues.

Earlier this morning Elk County Sheriff's office received several calls of illegal activity happening in the Longton area. The investigation is still ongoing but with further information, a person of interest has been identified. 30-year-old Travis Linton is currently trying to be located for questioning.

If you have seen or know where Linton is at you are asked to contact the Elk County Sheriffs office. Linton is considered armed and dangerous so do not approach him. You can contact the Elk County Sheriff's office at 620-374-2108.

A 28-year-old man has been arrested on multiple counts including Fleeing and Eluding.

Yesterday afternoon, the Crawford County Sheriff's received a complaint about a green Ford Mustang driving erratically in Opolis. A Deputy located the vehicle at a residence in Opolis and ran the license plate which came back stolen out of Labette County.

The Deputy located three individuals in front of the residence when two of them jumped in the Mustang and fled. A police pursuit ensued which ended when the suspect struck the culvert near the U.S. 69 and K-171 intersection. Both William Kukovich and 29-year-old Courtney Heckert were transported to Ascension Via Christi in Pittsburg. Further investigation found that the car has been stolen out of Vernon County, Missouri.

Upon his release from the hospital, Kukovich was arrested got Fleeing and Eluding, Possession of drug paraphernalia, Possession of Stolen Property, and Driving While Suspended. He was also booked on two outstanding warrants.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is running a fall mum sale to help benefit a local scholarship.

All proceeds from the sale of the flower will benefit the Best Family Scholarship. Created by the children of Jerry and Norma Best, the scholarship provides financial assistance to students around the area who have been accepted into an accredited health-related program.

Mums will be available until 8 pm Thursday, and from 8 am to 7 pm on Friday. They can be bought in the north CRMC parking lot.

A Bartlesville man has been arrested for possession of marijuana.

Yesterday afternoon, 19-year-old Cayden Hopkins was stopped by Caney Police Department for illegal display of tags. During the traffic stop and search, Hopkins was found to be in possession of marijuana.

Hopkins was arrested, booked, and released after posting bond.

Based on population data from the US Bureau of the Census and other sources, the City of Pittsburg has grown significantly over the past two years – and the numbers keep going up.

Estimates recently released from the 2020 Census show the population in Pittsburg increased by 2.4 percent in 2020, up 475 people since 2019. This news comes on the heels of another report from data analytics company Unacast, which reported Pittsburg has gained more than 878 residents since March of 2020.

City of Pittsburg's sales tax revenues increased 3 percent in 2020 and 11 percent to date in 2021, even though sales tax rates remained the same. Assessed valuation in Pittsburg has also risen by about 13 percent since 2012, according to the City of Pittsburg’s most recent budget.

A Pittsburg Micropolitan Area Economic Report shows the residential housing market in Pittsburg is taking off, with home sales up 71 percent since May 2020. In May 2021, the median time on the market was just 48 days.

The population increase is attributed to private and public investments in business development, infrastructure, technology, and tourism over the last several years.

Parsons Elks Club #527 gave thanks to each First Responder in Labette County by serving a steak meal this past weekend.

During the meal, Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks presented the Elks Club with 'The Distinguished Community Service Award' for their dedication to the area's First Responders and the support they have given them over the years. They have also been instrumental to the Parsons K-9 Program and will soon be partnering with the Parsons Police Department in a drug education program for the community.

The award was presented to Cecil Davidson while Joan Vitt was instrumental in coordinating the dinner and acting as a liaison with local First Responders. The dinner was attended by an estimated crowd of about 100 people.

A man from Pittsburg is in custody following an attempted burglary.

The Crawford County Sheriff's Office responded to a call from a resident at 1036 East 530th Ave, reporting that a man had forced his way through the resident's back door. The subject later identified as 56-year-old, Micheal Lane Pruett ignored the requests of law enforcement, Pruett was then hit by taser and pepper ball rounds with little effect.

Pruett ran into the house and proceeded to cut his throat with a knife. He was rushed to Ascension Via Christi where he received medical treatment. Pruett left the hospital on foot, against medical advice, then later was taken into custody on charges of aggravated burglary and assault.

The Cherokee County Sheriffs' office has arrested 38-year-old Lucas Jarrett on allegations of aggravated burglary. Jarrett attempted to break into a garage and steal property outside a Weir.

During the course of the investigation, Cherokee County Sheriffs Deputies identified Jarrett as the suspect. Jarrett was arrested by Pittsburg Police Officers before being transported to the Cherokee County Jail.

The Galena Fire and Police Departments received a donation of $600 from Vietnamese travelers from the Houston and Austin Texas areas. The travelers were on Route 66 and they come through Galena about every three years.

Every time they go through Galena they are impressed with the town and wanted to give back. They donated $600 to the Fire and Police Departments because of the jobs they do to keep people safe.

Arvest Bank will honor educators for the sixth consecutive year with its “We Love Teachers” campaign, which will result in 154 teachers receiving a total of $77,000. Awarding 154 $500 gifts to individual teachers is to show Arvest’s appreciation for the work teachers do, especially during a time of exceptional challenges in and out of the classroom.

All prizes will go to teachers who work at public state-funded schools and are to be used for classroom needs. A link to nominate a teacher can be found here. The deadline for nomination is this Sunday. In the five-year history of this campaign, Arvest has awarded more than $245,000 to over 480 teachers.

Coffeyville voters will head to the polls on November 2^nd to decide if they want to extend the existing ½-cent sales tax that is set to expire on September 30^th, 2022. The sales tax would be re-purposed for a number of different items around town.

Coffeyville City Manager Mark Hall explains how the sales tax extension will be used.

Hall went on to say that since this is a sales tax, that it won't only be the citizens paying for the improvements.

If the measure is approved by voters, the ½-cent sales tax will be collected for a 10-year period. At the end of the 10-year period, the tax will sunset and is only renewable by voter approval.

You can listen to the entire interview with Hall here.

The Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence are hosting Zoollaween on October 9^th from 5 PM-7 PM. It's a great family event where you can trick-or-treat your way through the Zoo.

There will be Carnival games available for you to win prizes at and if you are hungry Able's Snack Shack will be open while the event is going on. The cost is $2 per person and children two and under get in free.

Severe weather could be moving through Montgomery County, and the surrounding area, as soon as this evening.

The National Weather Service in Wichita is calling for potentially severe storms throughout the state. The storm will be moving east and could bring winds of up to 50 or 60 mph. There is also a possibility for hail.

As always, in case severe weather hits, stay tuned to 690AM, KGGF for round-the-clock, comprehensive coverage.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says that sharp spikes in natural gas prices last winter appear to violate Kansas law and he is seeking outside legal help to investigate them.

Schmidt's said on Monday it is looking to retain a law firm with expertise in the natural gas marketplace to help investigate and with any potential civil litigation aimed at enforcing the state’s anti-profiteering law.

Schmidt said that state law prohibits unjustified price increases for necessary goods and services during a declared state of disaster emergency.

The Nowata County Commissioners tabled the finalizing of the County Certification Maps. District three commissioner Troy Friddle was the only commissioner to finalize his road maps.

In other business, the commissioners talked about the redistricting process. Despite a decrease in population, the commissioners decided that the county doesn't need to redistrict.

The Labette County Commissioners receive a COVID-19 update from the county health department. Director Lisa Hoppock says as of the end of the last week they had 73 active cases.

Hoppock says compared to this time last year they are seeing more positive cases in school-age children, but currently, none of them are in the hospital.

On Sunday, Parsons PD was called to the 2300 block of Crawford for a reported domestic fight that took place.

Upon arrival, officers spoke to all involved parties and interviewed any potential witnesses as well. The victim's account of the situation along with witnesses and physical evidence of the battery that took place led officers to make an arrest. Johnathon Quinton Ray Jones, 20 of Parsons, was arrested on suspicion of Aggravated Domestic Battery.

Jones was taken into custody without incident and charges are being filed through the Labette County Attorney's Office.

A man has been arrested after leading Parsons Police on a chase throughout town. Early Sunday morning, Parsons Police Sergeant Brice Dickens attempted to stop a motorcycle that had no taillights in the 2200 block of Crawford.

The driver of the motorcycle did not stop when Sergeant Dickens activated his lights to stop the vehicle. The driver turned south onto 25th Street and continued to try and evade officers. The driver continued fleeing throughout the west side of Parsons and eventually attempted to ride through a yard in the 3000 block of Main where he accidentally laid the motorcycle over and took off on foot. Officers were eventually able to catch the suspect in the 3000 block of Washington.

The driver, 31-year-old, Steven Michael Leon of Parsons, was taken into custody without further incident. Leon is being held, and charges are being filed in the Labette County Court for Driving While Suspended, Speeding, No Insurance, Expired Tag, Illegal Tag, Failure to Stop at Stop Sign, Defective Equipment, Unsafe Turning, Interference with Law Enforcement, Reckless Driving and Fleeing or Attempting to Elude.

One person is left injured following a crash in Montgomery County.

Patrick Springer, a 70-year-old from Duncanville, Texas was traveling southbound on U169 in his Ford Econoline Van, Springer turned left towards CR6000 and was struck in the intersection. Springer was taken to Labette Health with a minor injury. The driver of the vehicle that struck Springer, Regelio Lopez-Gonzalez had no injuries.

Both drivers were wearing their seatbelts.

The 2^nd Annual Native American Unity Gathering will be coming up on September 25^th from 9 am – 4 pm at the Native American Fellowship Inc in South Coffeyville. The event is free and open to the public.

USD 445's Indian Education Coordinator Kris Crane says that plenty of events will be available.

Crane also said there will be free food while supplies last. Seating is limited so bringing a lawn chair is encouraged. Those planning to attend are also encouraged to practice social distancing and wear facial coverings.

This event is being presented by the Native American Fellowship, USD 445-Coffeyville Indian Education Program, and the Oklahoma Union Indian Education Program.

The Montgomery County Commissioners held a meeting with City Council members to see what they can do to make Montgomery County better for the future. With the 2020 census showing Montgomery County's loss in population City and Commission members want to work together as a County to bring more people into Montgomery County.

Some of the things they mentioned for this comprehensive plan were transportation from city to city, small businesses coming in, housing improvements, and health care facilities. The Commissioners and City Council members hope to have a good rough draft on what to improve by October.  

A traffic stop in Caney leads to the arrest of four, including one on a warrant for first-degree murder. This weekend, Caney Police Officers stopped a vehicle for displaying a paper tag that was not legible. The tag had expired in May and there was no insurance on the vehicle.

The driver of the vehicle, 26-year-old Donald Jamal Brewton, of Georgia, was arrested for a non-registered vehicle, no insurance and an open container. 20-year-old Ryan Emmett Banning, of Independence, was arrested on outstanding warrants from Neosho County. 32-year old Elizabeth Dawn Moore, of Fredonia, was arrested after a search of the vehicle revealed suspected meth, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. 28-year-old Angelic Marie Moore, of Altoona, was taken into custody for an active warrant for 1st Degree Murder in Montgomery County. The driver, Brewton, posted bond and was released after being processed. 

A professional chef will head up the latest community cooking classes offered by ICC's Fab Lab.

Arielle Gustafson, owner of The Penguin Cheesecakes in Independence, will offer two different classes on September 21st and the 22nd. The class for the former is titled "Dress It Up, Sauce It Up" and is a tutorial on sauces and dressings. The class for the latter is titled "Decadent Desserts" and features lemon bars and Gustafson's signature cheesecake.

Registration is being done on a first-come, first-served basis. There is room for six in-person audience members, but others wishing to attend may do so virtually using Zoom. Both classes allow for questions and sampling of the food prepared. Take-home recipes will also be provided.

A crash in Tyro occurred late tonight. At the time of this report personal were still on the scene and couldn't give an update on the crash. We will have more information for you when it comes available.  

The Coffeyville Police Department has been taking reports of fake $100 bills going around Yesterday. The fake dollar bills say for motion picture copy on them and businesses should pay close attention. The Police Department also says it is not just $100 bills being used as well. 

On September 10^th Parsons Police Officers reported to the Youth Crisis Center for a report of an employee abusing a child while working. Officers were told that 36-year-old Micheal Olson of Parsons had grabbed a 16-year-old and forced them into the kitchen of the YCC.

Officers were told that the victim was grabbed by his hair and forced into a room without cameras three times. Witnesses also stated that the victim was thrown into the refrigerator and onto the floor. Olson was not on scene at the time of the report but was arrested at his residence later. Olson is being held on multiple charges of aggravated kidnapping, child endangerment, abuse of a child, and aggravated battery.

A two-vehicle crash occurred in Crawford county around 9 PM last night. A 2015 Ford Fiesta was westbound on K-126 when it collided with a 1998 Ford Expedition in the eastbound lane. The Fiesta was driven by Baraka Lee Jr. he was taken to Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg.

The passenger of the Fiesta 18-year-old J'Soni Madison was also taken to Via Christi Hospital with suspected series of injuries. The driver of the Expedition Jennifer Birran was taken to Via Christi Hospital with suspected serious injuries. All three were wearing a seat belt.

Your child could make a fluffy new friend thanks to the Coffeyville Recreation Commission.

Children will choose and make their own stuffed animal during the Plush Pals event October 7th. However, registration ends September 15th, and is limited to 20 participants. Fees are $15 for children in district, and $18 for children out of district.

Animals do go out of stock, so make sure your child has a second choice in mind when registering.

A 43-year-old man was injured in a hit and run incident late Thursday night in Cherokee County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, a pick-up was traveling eastbound on 510 Avenue when it was struck on the passenger rear side by a Honda VTX1300 motorcycle driven by Travis Roberts who was northbound on South 220^th Street. The pick-up truck left the scene while Roberts' vehicle landed in the west ditch.

Roberts was transported to Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg with suspected serious injuries. Roberts was not wearing a helmet.

Coffeyville Tourism Director Sam Kudrick is stepping down next week. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says that Kudrick has done a great job at marketing tourism for the city.

Westbrook says in addition to the marketing that's been in down nationally and internationally there's been a lot of interest in Coffeyville by people just driving through the state.  Westbrook says the new tourism director is Zachary French and he has been getting trained by Kudrick since he started the job back in August.

There will be a lunch at the Coffeyville Senior Citizens Activity Center on Friday, September 17^th from 11:30 AM- 1 PM. All ages are welcome and the lunch will be provided by Village Assisted Living.

On the menu is beef stroganoff, seasoned peas, roll, and fruit jello. The Senior Citizens Activity Center is located at 601 Walnut St. here in Coffeyville. For more information on the lunch, you can call 620-251-7890.

A former Independence Community College football player was shot and killed in a Wichita club late Tuesday night, as reported by KAKE and the Montgomery County Chronicle.

Preston Spencer, a former defensive lineman who played for ICC in 2008, was shot at the scene while five others were injured. Spencer was an All-Jayhawk honorable mention in the 2008 season. Captian Jason Stephens of the Wichita Police Department identified the suspect as Keshawn Dawson. Dawson was kicked out of the club earlier that night, and had returned to fire shots at the club from the outside.

*Photo Courtesy of KAKE.com*

The 2020 Crime Index for Montgomery County has been released.

The report shows that Coffeyville had nearly 500 total crimes reported with 58 being violent crimes while Independence had 547 total crimes with 90 being of the violent variety. Cherryvale had 42 reported crimes while Caney had 22.

Independence Chief of Police Jerry Harrison said that while the crime rate for Independence was the highest of reporting agencies in the county, the community faces unique challenges when it comes to police spending.

Chief Harrison says that there are things that citizens can do that have a bigger impact on reducing crime than IPD alone.

A link to the 2020 Crime Index Report can be found here.

There were over 150 symptomatic students tested during the first week of September at Pittsburg State University.

Pitt State reports that 152 students were tested for COVID-19 at the Bryant Student Health Center and of those 30 were positive. Currently, 42 students are in isolation. Three faculty and staff members also reported an infection.

The last of the Independence Chamber of Commerce Movie Night Under the Stars will be at the Riverside Park Oval coming up on Saturday, September 25^th at 7:30 pm.

Independence Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson talks about what movie will be shown and what activities will be available.

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

Caney Police arrest a man for squatting in a building in Caney. Early yesterday morning, a Caney Police Officer was on routine patrol when they discovered an unsecured building at KOPCO. It was discovered that someone had been staying in the building without permission.

Later yesterday morning, officers made contact with 40-year-old Richard Daily. Investigation into the incident revealed that Daily had been staying in the KOPCO building. The officer discovered Daily had an active warrant out of Montgomery County for failure to appear. He was arrested on the warrant and turned over to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office who transported him to the county jail on the warrant charge.

Two men from Los Angeles are arrested in Caney after a routine traffic stop for speeding. Earlier this week, a vehicle was seen going 39mph in a 20mph school zone. A Caney Police Officer stopped the vehicle and determined the four occupants were from LA. None of the occupants of the vehicle had valid driver’s licenses.

The driver of the vehicle, 36-year-old Francisco Jimenezortega, was arrested for no driver's license and speeding. A passenger in the vehicle, 29-year-old Ulises Jimenezortega, was arrested for possession of marijuana. Both the driver and passenger were arrested and posted bond before being released.

The Veterans of Foreign Wars Post #1022 in Coffeyville are organizing a “mail call”.

Lee Garding, a veteran from Coffeyville will soon be taking an honor flight to Washington D.C. To make Garding's flight to the nation’s capital more meaningful, local people are being asked to write cards and letters as part of the fabled “mail call,” which harkens back to the days when soldiers, sailors, and airmen would receive mail from home.

People can write a card or letter expressing their appreciation of Garding’s military service. They can be sent to Lee Garding, c/o Bobbi Williams, 1303 NW 82nd Terrace, Columbus, KS 66725. Garding's Honor Flight is September 22, cards and letters must be sent before this date.

A two-vehicle crash occurred in Wilson county last night. A 2014 Nissan Rogue driven by Gurpreet Singh of Gardner, Kansas was eastbound on K-39 when he failed to stop at a stop sign colliding with a 2019 Ram Truck driven by Favian Hernandez.

Hernandez and the passenger in the Ram Noel Sanchez were taken to Neosho Memorial Hospital with suspected minor injuries. The passenger of the Nissan Rogue 63-year-old Jaswant Singh was taken to the KU Medical Center with suspected serious injuries. Gurpreet was also taken to Neosho Memorial Hospital with suspected minor injuries. All four wore a seat belt.

The Pittsburg Police Department Investigation Division has received multiple tips on the whereabouts of 31-year-old William Theodore Patton. Patton physically removed his GPS device on August 26^th and has been evading police ever since. On September 7^th, investigators received information that Patton was hiding out at 504 E. 7^th St. in Pittsburg.

At approximately 9:06 PM, officers arrived on the scene. With the help of the KBI, the front door of the residents was breached. 20-year-old Micheal Dusty Joe Taylor who resides at the residents exited without an incident. At 6:00 AM Patton who was in the attic fell through the roof and onto the front porch. He immediately got up and attempted to flee southbound and was quickly apprehended.

Patton was arrested on outstanding felony warrants out of Woodson County and Crawford County. In addition, Patton will be charged with felony interference with law enforcement and unlawfully tampering with an electronic monitoring device. He is currently being held in Crawford County Jail without bond.

Arkansas City police say four people were injured when a driver attempted to flee from a traffic stop.

Police say an officer tried to stop a truck driven by 27-year-old Casiopia Price, of Arkansas City Tuesday morning because she was believed to be driving with a suspended license. Police say Price drove away and collided with a van. The 46-year-old driver of the van and a 3-year-old passenger were hospitalized in stable condition. A 37-year-old passenger in the van was in critical condition.

Police say Price was taken to an Arkansas City hospital, where she is listed in fair to critical condition.

U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall is endorsing Attorney General Derek Schmidt in the Kansas governor's race. Marshall had initially endorsed former Gov. Jeff Colyer, who dropped out of the race last week after announcing he has prostate cancer. Marshall said Tuesday that Colyer's decision to leave the race will avoid a contentious GOP primary.

With Marshall's announcement, Schmidt now is endorsed by nearly every major Republican political leader in the race against incumbent Democrat Gov. Laura Kelly. The only exception is U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, who has a policy of not endorsing candidates in primary elections.

The news of a possible recall of a county commissioner in Labette County has started to spread to a state and inter-state level. In one article a county citizen alluded to the possible recall attempt of another commissioner. District 3 Commissioner Cole Proehl says it's unfortunate that he is being threatened to be recalled if he doesn't do exactly what one group would like even if it benefits the rest of the county.

Commissioner Proehl says the resolution he wrote is meant to be a starting point for negotiations.  Labette County has had problems recently keeping and hiring new employees mostly due to the lack of pay. Wind energy expansion into the county could be a potential solution to paying employees more without raising taxes.

The Chautauqua County Commission has confirmed that the maximum quarantine time in the county will be 14 days.

Resolution 20-21-07 was passed by the two attending members of the commission Tuesday, and limits the maximum amount of time a person can be quarantined as a close contact to 14 days. Recent KDHE guidelines have suggested that those who are identified as close contacts should be quarantined as long as 28 days.

At a previous meeting, the commissioners expressed concern at the effects a 28-day quarantine could have on an individual at work or in school. Discussions have taken place with both the county health department and county counselor Zoe Newton at previous meetings as well.

Two Cherryvale teens have sustain suspected serious injuries in a two-vehicle crash late Friday afternoon. A 2007 Dodge Charger was driven by 16-year-old Jayden Wyant was eastbound on County Road 5010 when it failed to yield for a 2013 Ford F550 driven by William Schwindt.

Schwindt was southbound on U-169. Wyant and 17-year-old Hannah Meeks were taken to Labette Health with suspected serious injuries. Schwindt had no apparent injuries.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has begun a resurfacing project on K-99 in Greenwood County. The road work starts at the east junction of K-99/U.S. 54 and continues north to the Greenwood/Lyon county line.

Project activity includes a mill and overlay. Flaggers and a pilot car will guide one-lane traffic through the work zone; expect delays of 15 minutes or less. The project should be completed by October, weather permitting.

KDOT awarded the construction contract of $1.5 million to Shilling Construction of Manhattan, Kansas.

A new event will be coming to downtown Coffeyville later this month.

The Hispanic Heritage Celebration is scheduled for September 19^th from 4 pm – 8 pm in the 10^th Street parking lot. Event co-organizer Balanca Lopez says this event is to share the Hispanic heritage with the entire community.

Co-organizer Norma Simpson also says there will be plenty to see and do.

Simpson also said that there will be a photo booth, a DJ, and much more. For more information, you can send an email to coffeyvilleheritagealliance@gmail.com.

The 18^th Annual Tyro Christian Church Free Car Show is coming up this Saturday, September 11^th. There will be 31 different classes with over 100 trophies presented. The grand prize is a 350 motor. The first 150 entries receive goody-bags and the first 250 entries receive picture plaques. Registration is from 8:00am to 11:00am on Saturday.

Pastor Bryan Ingalls says there will be a special 9/11 tribute at noon and then another tribute at the close of the show. For more information, you can call (620)289-4433 or message the church on Facebook.

The opportunity to lease farmland is important for most young agricultural producers. K-State Agricultural Economics Researcher Chelsea Arnold says most landowners are willing to lease to the young producers, but they view them as more of a risk.

Arnold says once a young producer has established a reputation with the landowner it can be a long-lasting relationship and that's why landowners look at young producers as viable tenets.

An early morning fire is quickly put out by multiple fire departments. At around 3:15 this morning, Independence Rural Fire and Independence Fire & EMS were dispatched to the 1700 block of West Oak for a report of a structure fire.

Upon arrival, units reported flames coming from the back of the house. Sycamore Rural Fire and Elk City Rural Fire also responded to the scene to assist with the fire. The four departments were able to quickly extinguish the blaze. One patient was treated and released at the scene.

A Caney man is arrested on criminal threats and a Caney woman on two warrants. Late last week, Caney Police Officers responded to a disturbance call in the 200 block of South Wood St. The suspect had a gun and made threats against another person and threatened to burn their house down. While at the residence, officers encountered Pam Bellmyer who had two active warrants for failure to appear. She was arrested and transported to the Chautauqua County Jail.

At around 3:00am Friday morning, a house fire was reported at 109 South Wood St. Firefighters were able to extinguish the fire before it could do major damage to the home. While working the first fire, there was a second fire in the 900 block of East 3rd St. Despite efforts from both Caney and Tyro Fire Departments the building was destroyed by the fire. A joint investigation into the fires is currently underway. Later that morning, officers executed a search warrant and arrested 53-year-old Patrick Griffin on criminal threat charges.

Members of the 242nd engineer company, based in Coffeyville are preparing for deployment in Louisana following Hurricane Ida.

The Guardsmen are deploying as part of an Emergency Management Assistance Compact, a multistate agreement that allows states to send government aid to other states in emergency situations.

Approximately 280 soldiers and airmen from Kansas will deploy for this mission, which is expected to last 21 days, including travel.

A one-vehicle crash occurred this morning in Labette County around 6 AM. A Kenworth Concrete Truck driven by Anthony Whitley of Parsons, Kansas was southbound on U-59 when he drifted off to the right side of the road.

The concrete truck struck a bridge guard rail and turned over sliding across both lanes of traffic coming to rest in the ditch. Whitley was taken to Labette County Health Center with suspected minor injuries.  

The Parsons Fire Department is inviting Fire Departments from the four states and beyond to participate in a stair climb. The purpose of the event is to honor the 343 firefighters that lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11^th and to raise money for the Jed Head Memorial Scholarship.

The Stair Climb will take place on Saturday, September 11^th from 9 AM- 5 PM at the Belmont Towers 1900 Belmont Ave. in Parsons. It's $50 to registered for the event. You can climb as a team or individual and current CDC guidelines will be in effect.

Update:

Due to a mass amount of community support and volunteers the rides and miniature golf WILL be in operation this weekend. After voicing the lack of staff at the park, several volunteers stepped up and will undergo the training needed to ensure the park is running at 100%

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Some of the activities at Riverside Park in Independence won't be available over Labor Day Weekend. The park will be unable to provide train and carousel rides or miniature golf throughout the weekend, tomorrow through Monday. According to the city, this is due to staffing shortages.

The Ralph Mitchell Zoo and Miss Able’s Snack Shack will operate according to normal hours over the weekend. The zoo will be open from 9:00am to 7:00pm and the concessions stand will serve from 11:00am to 5:00pm tomorrow and Sunday. The city hopes to resume normal ride operations next weekend, Saturday, September 11^th, and Sunday, September 12^th, from 1:00pm to 5:00pm.

A Cherokee County woman was arrested early Thursday morning on multiple counts.

Just before 5:00 am, Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies were dispatched to a rural Galena home when a resident was allegedly awoken by a woman armed with a knife entering the home through a pet door.

Deputies located and arrested 35-year-old Brittany Stamps on allegations of Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault, and Criminal Trespass.

A one-vehicle crash happened in Allen County this morning. A 2006 Yamaha Motorcycle driven by 59-year-old James Arthur Sikkema of Broke Arrow, Oklahoma was northbound on U-169 when the rear tire blew causing the vehicle to cross the centerline.

Sikkema then lost control and slide into the ditch. Sikkema was taken to St. Luke's Plaza Hospital with a suspected serious injury. Helmet and other protective gear were in use.  

Between August 25^th and August 31^st, Pittsburg State University reported that 87 symptomatic students were tested for COVID-19 at the Bryant Student Health Center. 23 were positive and 38 students are currently in isolation. During that time period, two staff members reported they had COVID-19 as well.

Bryant Student Health Center Director of Operations Rita Girth says the only tested and positive numbers the University can report come from the Health Center. Quarantine numbers are solely managed by Crawford County Health Department and numbers can change daily.

Tomorrow at 11:00am is the ribbon cutting for the new Coffeyville Bike Share station. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says health was a reason they chose bikes over the scooters.

Westbrook says Blue Cross and Blue Shield will be present for the ribbon-cutting, which will take place at the downtown location across from the Chamber. There is also one on the campus of the community college.

The Cherokee County commission placed a one-year moratorium on wind energy development in the county. This comes after a special meeting was held, in which a Neosho County and Labette County commissioner attended to give their advice. Labette County Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says he recommended a moratorium.

Addis says RWE, which is the same company currently trying to develop in Labette County, has already begun trying to sign lease contracts with landowners in Cherokee County.  Addis has been the only commissioner in Labette County to oppose wind development. He and several other county residents have tried to get a moratorium passed in Labette, but it has failed each time.

If you are looking to fill your stomach for a low price and help the youth of Independence, the Independence Optimist Club is hosting their annual pancake breakfast Saturday, September 11^th from 7:00 am to 11:00 am at the First United Methodist Church Wesley Center.

Independence Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson explains the details of this event.

For more information about this event or the Optimist Club, call (620) 331-1890.

The dove hunting season in Kansas is underway. When preparing to go dove hunting, it is also important to be prepared to clean the birds and practice common food safety tips when transporting the bird home.

K-State Diversified Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent Adaven Scronce gives a list of things that should be brought along to help clean and store the bird.

Scronce also gives some tips on the safe processing and storage of the bird.

For cooking, the bird should be thawed in the refrigerator or microwave but if microwaving, be sure to cook immediately after thawing. The bird should be cooked to 165 degrees and maybe prepared like chicken.

August was a brutal month when it came to COVID-19. In the month of August, Montgomery county saw 789 new cases according to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Monday's report was the last one for the month of August and it showed Montgomery County with 4,474 cases total.

The County's death total stands at 90. Statewide Kansas has reported 3,203 new cases, 10 deaths, and 42 hospitalized between August 27^th and August 30^th. Mondays County ranks has Montgomery County sitting 76^th out of 105 Counties in vaccination rate. Montgomery Counties' vaccination rate is at 42%.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center wants to educate our communities on more than just COVID-19 prevention techniques, vaccinations, and masking. CRMC says it is equally as important to know how to take care of yourself and your family should you become ill with the virus.

Some tips CRMC shared were to stay home except to get medical care, monitor your symptoms carefully if your symptoms get worse call your health care provider immediately, and lastly rest and stay hydrated. CRMC'S covid clinic is open Monday-Friday from 8 AM- 5 PM. The clinic is located on the north side of CRMC. If you wish to make an appointment call the clinic at 620-688-6566.

Residents of Chautauqua County who are identified as close contacts will only need to quaratine a maximum of 14 days.

The Chautauqua County Board of Commissioners expressed reservations at a 28-day quarantine period brought about by following KDHE guidelines. Commissioner Parker Massey said he has to consider the ramifications of such a long quaratine.

The commissioners' vote sets the maximum, but those will test positive will still need to quarantine for the full 14 days. Further questions on quarantine length should be directed to the Chautauqua County Health Department.

An investigation is underway after two semi-trucks collide on a highway and catch fire. Cherryvale Fire-Rescue and Cherryvale Rural Fire responded to HWY 169 and CR 4800 for a collision involving two semis that were on fire.

Upon arrival, mutual aid was requested from Independence Rural Fire, Liberty Rural Fire, Independence Fire & EMS, and CVR Fire. Also on scene was Cherryvale PD, Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and Kansas Highway Patrol. The highway was closed down while suppression efforts were underway. Kansas Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the accident.

The Labette County commission approved the budget for the upcoming year on a two-to-one vote. Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says he voted no because he didn't agree on the budget with the other two commissioners.

The budget for the county for the upcoming year is $7,691,304. The commission was able to lower the mill levy from 60.924 last year to 54.359 this year, a reduction of 6.565 mills.

A short survey could help direct the future of Montgomery County.

The Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce has released a survey asking the public to give its opinion on the usage of recently acquired funds. Montgomery County received $6.1 million dollars in ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) grant funds. The survey, which can be found here, contains questions pertaining to demographics, priorities, and potential training expenditures.

The survey is 30 questions and takes about 15 minutes to complete.

A recall petition has been filed in Labette County for District Two Commissioner Brian Kinzie. Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says the district two constitutes don't believe Commissioner Kinzie is protecting them when it comes to wind turbines.

The recall committee was able to collect 1,560 signatures which is well over the required 1,202 signatures. County Clerk Gena Landis and her staff have 30 days to verify the signatures to confirm all live in the second district and were registered to vote at the time Commissioner Kinzie was elected.