The Nowata County Commissioners discuss the potential for an upgrade to the county emergency radio system. The plan was presented by Nowata County Emergency Management Director Laurie Summers, who says several fire chiefs are interested in this project.

The board debated the need for the upgrade. District No. 2 Commissioner Timmie Benson, who works with the Wann Fire Department, says the departments have been able to make communication work and he is leery about the price of the near $400,000 project. The full scope of the project would require new communication towers to be constructed near Wann and New Alluwe. The fire departments are slated to have a meeting to discuss the matter further. 

A stolen vehicle is recovered in Caney. This morning, a Caney Police Officer took a report of a stolen vehicle in the 200 block of South Wood St. The victim reported a 2007 Ford Taurus was stolen. A short time after taking the stolen vehicle report the officer located the stolen vehicle on North Wood Street and Harvey Ave.

The driver of the vehicle was identified as Katy Kelso, was was taken into custody for driving on expired license, felony auto theft and interference with a law enforcement officer. Kelso is currently on bond release from other pending Montgomery County criminal cases. The stolen vehicle was turned back over to the owner.

The Labette County Commission meeting ends with fireworks. Commissioner Cole Proehl asked what the plan or next step was with RWE and the wind turbines. Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says the options are limited and accused Commissioner Proehl of purposely burning through the county budget.

Commissioner Addis dodged multiple questions with accusations against Commissioner Proehl eventually saying it would be best if Commissioner Proehl resigned. Commissioner Terry Weidert says he will reach out to an attorney to provide legal advice in regards to what they can do to prevent RWE from coming into the county.

The full discussion between the commissioners can be heard here.

"United We" is a non-profit organization developed to advance women’s economic and civic leadership.  Their desire is to help grow Kansas women’s participation in the workforce. Wendy Doyle, CEO of the non-profit says they are looking to collect data to enact policy change. In a story from KOAM United We has worked towards similar goals in other states. Doyle says they use town halls to bring together key stakeholders to discuss what can be done to reduce barriers and get families back to work.

Reducing the licensing requirements and qualifications to get people to work quickly and help especially women who may have dropped out of the workplace and want to reenter is one of the main goals. 33 civic and business leaders, as well as elected officials, are working to make sure that rural voices are heard. They plan to hold the first town hall in Kansas on August 3^rd in Pittsburg at Pitt State University. For more info go to kggfradio.com and follow the link. Lunch and childcare will be provided.

Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt signed into law a bill requiring public school students to use only the bathroom of the sex listed on their birth certificate. The bill was in response to Stillwater Public declining to change a policy that allowed students to use the bathroom that agrees with their gender identity. Opponents feel that it only targets transgender students, while supporters say it allows for separate, gender-neutral bathrooms. There were also reports of female students being harassed by male students claiming to identify as female.

One person was shot and killed and 7 more were wounded, the Associated Press reports. Sunday a 26-year-old man opened fire at a Memorial Day event in Taft, OK. Taft is about 45 miles south of Tulsa. The OSBI said Skyler Buckner turned himself in later that afternoon. The victims ranged in age from 9 to 56. The woman that was killed was 39 years old. When more information becomes available we will report it.

The Chautauqua County Commission approved a couple of items and discussed the most recent election news during a short meeting Tuesday morning.

During the commission's roads and bridges report, the commission approved the purchase of a compressor for just over $4,000. Following that, the commission approved its payroll register for the month of May.

To end the meeting, the commission received an update on the most recent news regarding the upcoming primary election. As of Tuesday morning, there had still not been a notice of election sent, but the deadline of June 1st was still in place for those who want to file for any of the local races.

The Nowata County Sheriff's Office arrests two individuals over separate domestic violence cases.

24-year-old Hunter Hindman was arrested in Delaware, Oklahoma on May 17^th for domestic assault and battery. Hindman is accused of striking his girlfriend. A Cherokee Nation Tribal Judge set Hindman's bond at $10,000.

39-year-old Justin Lee was arrested in Northern Nowata County on May 19^th for aggravated domestic assault and battery. Lee is accused of striking his girlfriend and breaking her nose. Lee also has a Cherokee Nation warrant for felon in possession of a firearm. Lee's total bond is $65,000.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will be patching U.S. 400 between U.S. 75 and U.S. 169 in northern Montgomery County. The Montgomery County Chronicle reports that crews will be replacing concrete on the mile-long section that includes the Sough Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad crossing. Expect delays as the traffic will be reduced to one lane. Hopefully, if the weather cooperates they will be done before July 1. KDOT reminds all of us to slow down and look out for our workers. If you can't remember, the Kansas Highway Patrol will help remind you with a ticket that shows that fines are double in work zones.

Yesterday Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz were in Humboldt to announce that the State of Kansas is giving $11.5 million in grants to advance 17 railroad improvement projects across Kansas. The event was held at the Monarch Cement Company in Humboldt, the largest grantee in this cycle.

State Rail Service Improvement Fund is part of the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program. Since 2019, nearly $50 million in grants and matching community contributions to 26 improvement projects have been given out. Each grantee must contribute at least 40% of the improvement funding.

These grant funds are made available to short-line railroads, shippers, and other qualifying projects. To see a list of all the grants awarded visit our website kggfradio.com and follow the link.

Kansas is in need of volunteers and temporary workers for the upcoming primary elections this August.

Volunteers are help with a variety of different election tasks, and play an essential role. Those interested in becoming a poll worker should contact their election office or visit this website to get started.

Volunteers must complete a training program, be at least 16 years old, and be registered to vote (if at least 18 years old). Election workers are compensated for their time. Questions can be directed to Kansas Secretary of State Scott Schwab by either phone at 785-296-4561 or email at scott.schwab@ks.gov.

The Montgomery County Health Department has taken to Facebook to share some tips to maintain a proper family emergency kit. Those tips can be found here:

• Keep canned or packaged food in a cool, dry place, and check the expiration dates at least twice a year
• Store boxed food in tightly closed plastic or metal containers
• Replace the water supply every six months
• Review needs every year and update the kit as your family's needs change
• Prepare seperate kits for your home, work and vehicle, as you never know where an emergency may occur.

The department suggests that you do not wait until an emergency happens to you, and that being prepared is the best way to keep you and your family safe.

A Coffeyville man has been sentenced to almost five years in state prison for a shooting death in June 2020.

According to the Montgomery County Chronicle, Judge William Cullins sentenced Ethan Bellamy to 59 months in state prison for pleading no contest to a charge of voluntary manslaughter. Bellamy, who was charged with premeditated first-degree murder in the death of Otis Horner, accepted a lesser charge of voluntary manslaughter. Charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and conspiracy to commit murder were dismissed by the Montgomery County Attorney. Bellamy will also be required to spend 36 months in post-release supervision and register as a violent offender for 15 years.

Prior to sentencing, Bellamy heard comments from two members of Horner's family. His sister, Tenesha Horner, and mom, Lula Henson. Bellamy was ordered to pay $8,000 in restitution to Tenesha Horner for the costs associated with her brother’s funeral and burial.

The First Annual Coffeyville Adult Prom is coming up next month. Organizer Lunette Thompson says this was something they had been working on for a few years as a way for adults to get away in town and have a night of their own.

Doors for the prom will open up at 4:30pm and the prom will last until midnight, the theme is Black Tie Affair and individual tickets are $30. Thompson says they have about fifty individual tickets available.

The last day to buy tickets will be June 3^rd, tickets will be distributed on June 6^th and the prom will be on June 25^th. There is currently a giveaway for one ticket on the prom's Facebook page. The giveaway ends on Saturday.

Two doctors discuss the baby formula shortage on the floor of the U.S. Senate. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D., who was questioning FDA Commissioner Robert Califf, M.D., read a few statements from Kansas mothers and grandmothers.

Senator Marshall then asked Commissioner Califf what he should tell the Kansas moms and grandmas. Dr. Califf, in response to Senator Marshall, says he would tell them that they are sorry they are in this situation but they are working night and day to fix it.

This exchange comes after President Joe Biden signed into law Senator Marshall’s Access to Baby Formula Act, which addresses the shortage for families who rely on the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children.

The Washington County Republican Party in partnership with Bartlesville Radio is hosting a candidate forum tonight at 6:00pm at the Oklahoma Wesleyan University Chapel.

The forum will first host Oklahoma House District 11 incumbent Wendi Stearman and challenger John B. Kane at 6:00pm. The US Senate candidates forum will take place shortly after.

The forums will be carried live on KWON AM 1400/FM 93.3 and 95.1 and on KWONTV.com with Bartlesville Radio's Tom Davis serving as the moderator. The forums are sponsored on KWON by Phillips 66, Wooden Buffalo, LPL Painting and Timmons Sheet Metal.

Like to read outdoors? Well, then this deal is for you. Visit a participating Kansas library and ask to check out a Kansas State Parks Vehicle Permit. The clerk at the library will issue you a vehicle permit valid for one day to be used at any Kansas State Park. Display the permit on their vehicle windshield and you are ready to go. No need to return the permit, just dispose of it properly the next day. The process may vary at each participating library. Libraries interested in participating should contact program coordinators Riston Landwehr riston.landwehr@ks.gov or Kati Westerhaus kati.weterhaus@ks.gov. For more information and to view a complete list of participating Kansas libraries, visit www.ksoutdoor.com/State-Parks/Library-Program

Business over breakfast hosted by the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce is a new event for area business folk and professionals to reconnect, engage and learn about current topics and updates from community leaders. The Chamber’s goal is to have participants leave with ideas, information, and insight into the community and legislative issues and share the stories of those making a difference in Coffeyville. It will be held at Best Western in Coffeyville. So get involved and find out what’s going on in our community on the first Wednesday of every month.  The doors open at 7:30 and the program starts at 8. So next Wednesday, June 1 will be the inaugural event. A hot breakfast will be provided too.

The city of Independence is providing updates for those who would like to see how the city's new Fire/EMS station is coming along.

McCownGordon Construction, who is in charge of the project, provides these short updates to the city. Those updates are then posted on the city's website. The latest update sent in on May 20th details lifts of LVC material and the ensuing density tests.

There is currently three weeks' worth of updates available on the website, with more on the way.

Montgomery County residents should be aware of upcoming deadlines for August's primary elections.

The deadline to file for any of the local races is next Wednesday, June 1st. If you are a voter and would like to change your party affiliation, the deadline for that is June 10th.

The county clerk's office, which also serves as the election office, is open 8AM to 5PM, Monday through Friday. Questions can be called in at 620-330-1200.

During recent, routine testing E Coli bacteria has been found to be present in the Labette County Rural Water District #6. 

E Coli can make a person sick and is a concern for people with a weakened immune system.  If you are on the Labette Rural Water District #6 and show symptoms of cramps, nausea, diarrhea, headaches or other symptoms you, may want to seek medical attention. 

E Coli can often appear in water systems after heavy rains due to runoff.  The district is working to resolve the problem and will notify customers when it is resolved.

The Cherryvale Historical Museum is hosting an event called Discover Big Hill that will give a brief overview of the lake and its amenities. Museum Board Member Mike Wood says they would like to invite people out to the lake on June 11^th at 10:00am.

Wood says there will also be a question-and-answer period after the presentation for anyone wanting to know more about Big Hill Lake and the area around it. The museum will also be open after the event for those wishing to see more Cherryvale history.

With warmer weather and Memorial Day approaching many will take this opportunity to move some meal preparation outdoors. Kansas State University Food Scientist Karen Blakeslee says food safety still needs to be a priority.

Blakeslee says when you’re grilling meats, there are three temperatures to remember.  Blakeslee says using a food thermometer is the only way to make sure you’ve reached the recommended internal temperature. 

Fab Lab ICC and Greenbush have announced they have changed the price of the three summer camps they are offering in the month of June.  The original price was $75 but they have decided to make the classes free.  

Director Jim Correll says the first camp, Fab Lab Fun, is June 13th through June 16th. Correll says the second camp will be the following week, June 20th through June 23rd, and is a robotics camp. 

Correll says the final camp for the month of June is from the 27th to the 30th and is called Design it, Build it, Take it home.  Each class is four days a week, Monday through Thursday, from 9:00am to 11:00am.   The link to register can be found here.

The Grand River Dam Authority Police Department wants to remind everyone to keep safe this weekend while enjoying their time on area lakes. Children 13-years-old and under, who are floating the river, are required to wear a life jacket.  Children 12-years-old and younger are required to wear a life jacket on any vessel under 26 feet long. GRDA encourages all ages to wear a life jacket.

Other tips for boating safety include don’t drink and boat, alcohol is still the leading cause of boating accidents, shut off the motor when people are in the water near your boat, make sure you know the nautical “rules of the road" and be aware of the weather and the forecast before taking off. 

If you plan to enjoy your personal watercraft keep in mind to not ride tired. Don’t take on more passengers than what your craft is capable of, look out for others, never drink and ride and match your speed to your skills. To see more helpful tips go to www.360grandlake.com.

A busy June 4th gets underway at the Terebinth Coffee House and Roastery, 232 W. 9^th St., in Coffeyville at 9 a.m.

According to Candi Westbrook at the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce, that morning several area legislators will be at the Terebinth Coffee House to meet and greet their local constituents. State Senator Virgil Peck, Representatives Jim Kelly, Doug Blex and Rich Proehl will all be on hand to chat with local folks, to answer questions and address concerns.

Later in the day, the Brian Knisley Memorial Demo Derby will take place at the Coffeyville Fairgrounds, gates opening at 5 p.m., derby action kicking off at 6 p.m.

For more information, call the Chamber at 620-251-2550.

The Chanute Police Department says scammers are sending out a recorded message that states that the resident has overpaid their utility bill.

The message goes on to have the victim press “1” to get help with a refund. Once the scammer gets a live person they will ask for personal info and a credit card number in order to send the resident their refund. The best advice is to just hang up. If you overpaid your bill it will show up as a credit on the next bill city officials said. Unless you initiate contact with a vendor or other entity never, ever give out your credit card information.

Today is National Missing Children’s Day. It was first designated by President Ronald Regan in 1983. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt is reminding Kansas parents to talk to their children about ways to stay safe. Schmidt points out that parents’ communication is key; you need to have a safety plan and regularly take time with your kids to review or amend it. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children maintains a list of children missing from Kansas. The database can be accessed at www.missingkids.org. The list includes names, photographs, and other information about the 74 missing children in Kansas right now. Schmidt also reminds parents to keep identifying information on children up to date. Having a kit with the child’s fingerprints, height, weight, and current photo can make a big difference in how quickly a missing child can be located.

The Yellow Brick Road Festival is this weekend in Sedan. On Friday evening at 6, there will be a block party to kick off the event. It is free, just remember to bring your lawn chairs and enjoy the live music. On Saturday the costume contest, the witches’ cackle contest, and the Toto look-a-like contest will be held at 9:45, right before the parade at 10.

there will be a cornhole tournament, as well as kids games and there will be an open mic on the deck at Kurtis Art Plaza. Stay for the Mt Oyster fry at noon and then go see Dorothy and the Witches of Oz at the Gregg Theater. For more information go to Sedan Chamber of Commerce's Facebook page.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt reports that More than 300 Kansas consumers have received more than $167,000 in refunds by Ford Motor Company as part of a nationwide settlement over claims Ford falsely advertised the real-world fuel economy of certain model trucks and hybrids.

A nationwide investigation by state attorneys general found that Ford made misleading representations about the vehicles, including the distance that could be driven on a tank of fuel, comparison to other hybrids on the market, or omitting certain factors that accounted for vehicle weight that would affect fuel mileage. The settlement corrects Ford’s deceptive advertising practices and helps ensure that Ford will not make false or misleading advertising claims about the fuel economy of its vehicles.

Governor Kelly announces $10 million going to rural Kansas communities to enhance broadband access. Unfortunately for those of us here in SE Kansas, we are not on the list. Most of the money is going to communities with more population in NE Kansas and a few in western Kansas. The 11 communities that were listed by the Governor, she indicated they were chosen after a competitive funding round and all proposed projects were made available for public review. To encourage input Governor Kelly said a public comment period was included in the process to ensure transparency and community feedback in the process of the awards.

Labette County Commission Chairman Lonie Addis has called for a special meeting this morning at 9 am in the commission room in Oswego to address an increase in allocation from Kansas Corrections. They will discuss using the increased funding for salaries.

The USD 445 Board of Education approves the resignation of Community Elementary Counselor Chelsey Martin at a special meeting.

The original item on the agenda was to take final action on the non-renewal of Martin's contract but was changed on the agenda to approve the resignation of Martin before the meeting. The board voted 6-0 to approve the resignation. This stems from the May 9^th meeting, where to board voted 7-0 to approve the non-renewal of Martin's contract.

In other business, the board approved a $500 increase to the base pay rate of first-year teachers raising the salary from $43,900 to $44,400. The board also approved the superintendent's recommendation of Google licenses for student computers, K-6 phonics interventions from 95% Group LLC and asphalt sealing throughout the district.

Multiple government entities will be closed Monday for the holiday.

The Montgomery County, Labette County and Chautauqua County Courthouses will be closed for Memorial Day. The Coffeyville Tag Office and City Hall will be closed as well. The next scheduled Labette County Commission and Chautauqua County Commission meetings will be Tuesday, March 31^st with the Montgomery County Commission meeting on Wednesday, June 1^st.

The Kansas Legislature was unable to pass a medical marijuana bill again this session. Monday marked the end of the legislative session in Topeka and the Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee Chairman Robert Olson said in a press release that they had too “heavy of a load” and his committee had to carry on other issues and that lawmakers will not be “getting this measure across the finish line this session.” This may be a blessing in disguise for proponents of legalization in Kansas as the proposed bill passed by the house contained several items that would have, according to some, allowed for big businesses to come in from out of state and monopolize production and distribution. This was mainly because the failed bill proposed licensing and fees for growers and distributors that were many times that of surrounding states, thus making it very difficult for small local businesses to be involved. It would have allowed only big-box growers and distributors to participate, essentially putting it out of reach economically for most small farms and entrepreneurs. Those opposed to legalizing medical use were pleased that Kansas continues to be one of less than 15 states, which do not allow ill residents to seek relief from their maladies thru the use of cannabis. Instead regulating those residents to seek said relief thru big pharma options including opiate-based remedies. 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has signed a bill aimed at assisting those who have been affected by natural disasters.

House Bill 2239 provides sales and property tax relief to Kansans after a disaster has been declared. The measure includes a sales tax exemption for agricultural fencing and empowers county commissions to abate property taxes if properties or homesteads have been damaged. Also, the underlying legislation provides property tax relief by "increasing the property tax exemption on all residential properties and providing a property tax refund for seniors and veterans."

Farmers and ranchers who were affected by the fires last December will able to take advantage of the exemption if they are continuing to replace fencing on their pasture. Those have completed their work are eligible for a refund.

After July 1, 2022, a sales tax exemption to repair or replace fencing on agricultural land becomes permanent. 

Officers in Humboldt arrested a Chanute man Sunday night for threatening a G&W Food employee with his vehicle. The victim seemingly was stalked by the Chanute driver in the G&W Food parking lot and on two occasions the victim narrowly evaded being run over. The incident eventually spilled over into Pete’s gas station and a quick-witted Pete’s clerk called the police after noticing the suspicious behavior from the driver of the truck. Initially, the HPD let the suspect go as he told the police that he was moving erratically in Pete’s parking lot due to truck issues. Shortly thereafter the police were informed of the G&W employee incident and they tracked down the truck driver and placed him under arrest.

A body was found by the Chanute Fire Department while investigating a home explosion.  Saturday at about 7 am crews responded to a reported structure fire. Fire Captain Chad Small determined the south wall of the house had been blown out with considerable damage to the other walls and roof. During the investigation, the body was discovered. No other victims were found. The State Fire Marshal and ATF investigators are working to determine the cause of the explosion and apparent resulting death. KGGF news will bring you more on this case as it becomes available.

A Coffeyville man will face a jury trial at the end of the year in a rape case involving an infant. 

57-year-old Archie Cannon will face a jury trial in December after he was charged with raping a four-month-old child.  Judge Jeffery Gossard says there is enough evidence to take this case to trial.  Cannon was arrested by the Coffeyville Police Department on March 3rd and has been in custody since his arrest.  He is also charged with intimidating a witness. 

A Coffeyville man has been arrested for murder following an investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Coffeyville Police Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

Yesterday, 63-year-old David A. Jackson was arrested for suspected first-degree murder related to the death of 47-year-old Melvin Simpson Jr. Jackson was also arrested for criminal possession of a weapon, felony obstruction of justice, and unlawful discharge of a weapon.

At the time of the new charges, he was already in custody at the Montgomery County Jail.

Fab Lab ICC is partnering with Greenbush to offer three different summer camps in the month of June. Director Jim Correll says the first camp, Fab Lab Fun, is June 13^th through June 16^th.

Correll says the second camp will be the following week, June 20^th through June 23^rd, and is a robotics camp. Correll says the final camp for the month of June is from the 27^th to the 30^th and is called Design it, Build it, Take it home.

Correll says each class is four days a week, Monday through Thursday, from 9:00am to 11:00am. The cost of each class is $75 but they do have a limited amount of scholarship money available. The link to register can be found here.

A rural Baxter Springs man is facing drug distribution charges following a traffic stop.

Last night at around 9:30pm, Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies stopped a vehicle east of Baxter Springs. Following an alert from a Baxter Springs Police K9, sheriff's deputies discovered nearly 1.5 ounces of methamphetamine and paraphernalia along with a considerable amount of cash.

Deputies arrested the driver, 58-year-old Timothy Sargent, on allegations of possession with intent to distribute, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia, driving while suspended and driving without insurance.

The Labette County Commission agreed to add another position to 911 dispatch for the county. Dispatch Director Brandy Scott says if they can get another person hired it will help them to catch up after not being fully staffed for almost two years.

Scott says the new position was not budgeted at the beginning of the year so the funds will need to come out of the general budget. The commission approved the addition of a new position on a 3-0 vote.

Coffeyville City Commissioners hope to take another step in converting to automated meter reading in the city.  Commissioners will consider two resolutions for purchase orders for services, programming and a mass meter swaps for electric and water meters when they meet Tuesday evening.

In other business, Commissioners will consider resolutions to enter into real estate agreements between the city and the Coffeyville Neighborhood Initiative and Properties in the Ville.  Commissioners will also hear staff reports from the police department and meet in executive session.

Tuesday’s City Commission meeting gets underway at 6:30 Tuesday evening in the Commission Room at City Hall.

The Montgomery Co. Commissioners heard from Dennis Webb this morning in their regular board meeting. He answered questions and informed the board members about KDOC grant funding and salary increases and the exception for community corrections from MG county longevity pay and policy. Griffin Walker reported on local Boys and Girls club's doings. Jim Wright kept the commissioners up to date on the public works projects of note as well as the purchase of a new truck. He was instructed to report back next week with information about the price the county is getting for hay being cut on some areas that are available in the county. Nancy Clubine, County Treasurer went over cost forecasts for the tag office department for the remainder of this year and next. She did point out that these numbers may be vastly different with changes that may be caused by the passing of a bill in the Kansas senate right now that would fundamentally change how much and how the counties are paid for revenue generated for the state through each counties tag office. To see the Board Of Commissioners meeting’s minutes in full go to kggfradio.com for the link.

The Chautauqua County Commission discussed problems involving an elevator on Monday.

A recent power outage led to the courthouse's elevator ceasing to function. Maintance department representative Richard Hambleton suggested that they begin searching for bids for potential electrical work. Commissioner Rodney Shaw then suggested that he would first like to see a plan put in place to get someone out of the elevator in case of a power outage.

In other business, the commission approved bank reconciliations and took time for executive sessions pertaining to non-elected personnel.

Siemens Gamesa wind-energy plants in Hutchinson, Kansas and Fort Madison, Iowa will close down while the company waits for new orders. Officials with the company announced Friday that most employees at the two plants will be laid off. The blade plant in Iowa, which employs 171 people and the nacelle plant in KS, the part that houses the generating components, will lay off 92 workers in Hutchinson. Siemens did say it is possible to reopen if market conditions improve.

The USD 445 Board of Education is scheduled to take final action on the non-renewal of counselor Chelsey Martin’s contract when they meet in a special session tomorrow evening.  Two weeks ago the Board’s decision to not renew Martin’s contract caused quite a stir with supporters becoming vocal over that decision.

In other business, the board is expected to approve the superintendents’ recommendation to approve the negotiated agreement with teachers and Google licenses for student computers. The board will meet in special session tomorrow evening at 5:00.

As Kansans are facing shortages of baby formula as a result of pandemic-related supply chain issues and a recall of significant amounts of formula, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt warns that anytime there is a shortage of an essential product like baby formula, it is important to use caution to avoid falling victim to scams. Keep these points in mind – Know the seller, stick with trusted vendors, beware of social media offerings, shop with a credit card-debit cards that don’t have the same protections for consumers. And what your grandmother used to tell you still holds true: if it’s too good to be true, it is… too good to be true. For more info see our website kggfradio.com for a link to the AG Schmidt’s full article.

A Bill to give more support to Ukraine was approved in the United States Senate on a 86 to 11 vote. Senator Roger Marshall, who was one of those no votes, says the U.S. has already given more money than the rest of the world combined.

Senator Marshall says he wants to do everything they can to help Ukrainians but the Southern Border is a bigger crisis to Kansans than Ukraine. Senator Jerry Moran, who did vote yes on the Bill, says this legislation includes an investment in their own national security by allocating resources to purchase more weapons to bolster the defense capabilities here at home.

One was injured during a house fire in Independence. 

This morning around 7:00am, the Independence Fire Department responded to a report of a fully involved structure. Upon arrival, the IFD Chief Shawn Wallis found the residence on fire with one injured and several others who had escaped the fire without injury.

IFD transported one patient to the Labette Health ER in Independence. Despite the windy conditions, the fire was brought under control in about 45 minutes. IFD received assistance from Independence Rural, Dearing Rural and Cherryvale Fire-EMS.

The Summer Outdoor Movie Night schedule has been released by the Midland Theater Foundation.  The season kicks off in just a couple of weeks on Friday night, June 3^rd with a showing of “Jumanji:  Welcome to the Jungle.”  Additional movies will be shown on August 26^th with “Encanto,” September 9th with “American Graffiti.” And the season will wind up October 7^th with a showing of “Princess Bride.”

All movies are free and begin at dusk on a giant screen, although you may want to come out early to enjoy activities for the kids including the Grace Fellowship bounce house and food from vendors and downtown restaurants.  You should bring lawn chairs for the best viewing from the new Union Pacific Park at 8th and Elm.

Montgomery County Commissioners will be meeting with Dennis Webb of Community Corrections to discuss several salary and funding issues when they meet Monday morning. 

In addition, commissioners will also discuss auto tags with the County Treasurer, here reports from Jim Wright on Public Works, Griffin Walker on the Boys and Girls Club and meet in two executive sessions to discuss personnel and cyber security issues.

Commissioners will meet in regular sessions Monday morning at 9:00am in the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence.

Oklahoma Union High School graduates are scammed out of their plane tickets for their senior trip.

About 40 students and chaperones traveled to Springfield to fly to Orlando.  The group had raised money to take the trip to Universal Studios, but when they presented their tickets they learned they had been scammed. The plane tickets were fake as the hackers tied their number to the Allegiant Airlines number and the school officials had been in contact with who they believed to be representatives from Allegiant for months. But the folks in Springfield stepped up and helped the class learn that the kindness of strangers is still very much alive. They were provided free entry to the Wonders of Wildlife National Museum & Aquarium, and Bass Pro Shops gave them hats and gift cards. The students wrote on Facebook a big thank you with a picture of the class in their hats and a sign welcoming them to the Aquarium. 

Skip the line at the DMV and download the new iKan app. Kansans can now update their driver’s licenses address thru a new app called iKan. You can download the app thru Apple, Google Play or by visiting iKan.ks.gov. Once you get the app you must submit proof of a valid address and a copy of your current driver’s license. Once your address is validated you will get your updated credentials in the mail.

Do you have questions about how you can increase your business’ exposure on Goggle? Or want a better understanding of just how Google search works. Then you need to attend “Grow with Google”, a workshop sponsored by the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce. The speaker, Maria Elena Duron, will show you how to improve your website’s visibility in Google’s organic search results across all devices, how you can create a free Google Business Profile, and everything you need to know about advertising your business on Google. You can attend via Zoom meeting or if you want to participate in-person in the Coffeyville Chamber Meeting Room on June 29^th from 2 to 3 pm. You will need to RSVP. To reserve your space you can follow the link on our website: kggfradio.com or go to the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce website and let them know you plan to attend. That’s June 29^th from 2 to 3 pm.

The Independence Police Department is investigating a string of property damage cases that may be related. The first incident was reported in mid-April and the most recent was reported this Tuesday. At least three juveniles with matching descriptions have been seen at multiple different incidents. The suspects are known to have thrown a rock, brick, or piece of asphalt through residents’ windows in the late evening to early morning hours. Many of the events occurred near the high school with one residence being damaged twice.

Police are trying to determine if there is any connection between the victims and are attempting to locate one identified suspect. Police are asking anyone who lives near the locations listed below to review their surveillance cameras. Police Chief Jerry Harrison says they need the community's help identifying and stopping these suspects as the severity of damage appears to be increasing. If you have any information call IPD (620)332-1700. 

1500 Block of Irving after 9 pm on 4-18-22

900 Block of N Pennsylvania Ave. early morning hours 4-19-22

200 Block of Hackberry within a few days prior to 4-19-22

600 Block of N Park Blvd. before 2 am 4-21-22

600 Block of E Myrtle before 8:30 pm 4-22-22

1600 Block of N 10^th 2:24 am 4-23-22

1500 Block of N 10^th 1:46 am 2-28-22

1000 Block of N 10^th 2:20 am 5-12-22

1500 Block of Irving 8:48 pm 5-17-22

300 Block of S 12^th 8:15 pm 5-18-22

A Tahlequah, Oklahoma man is arrested in Caney after being pulled over for speeding.

At around 1:03am this morning, a Caney Police Officer clocked a red truck going 53mph in a 35mph zone. The officer made a traffic stop in the area of McGee and 6th Street. The driver was identified as 22-year-old James Collins. During the stop, the officer located marijuana, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

Collins was arrested and transported to Montgomery County Jail on charges of possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia and operating a vehicle without registration, insurance or valid driver’s license. 

A Montgomery County man appears in district court today for a review hearing.

22-year-old Benjamin Whitaker appeared in front of Judge Jeffrey Gossard on eight separate cases. Whitaker is facing multiple felony charges including kidnapping, theft, interference with a law enforcement officer and blackmail. Whitaker is represented by his attorney, Gerald Wells, who asked for a preliminary hearing. Whitaker's next court dates will be July 28^th and 29^th at 9:00am.

A Montgomery County woman appeared in district court today.

34-year-old Audrey Neal appeared in front of Judge Jeffrey Gossard for a motion hearing. Neal was represented by her attorney Gerald Wells, who said a plea deal had been offered earlier in the day. Wells, after reviewing the evidence against Neal, made a motion to have her evaluated for competency. Judge Gossard accepted the motion.

Four County Mental Health will evaluate Neal over a six to nine week period. Her next court date is scheduled for July 21^st at 1:30pm. Neal was appearing on seven different cases with charges of attempted first-degree murder, arson, multiple charges of theft and possession of drugs.  

Edna Bears club is sponsoring the annual kids fishing derby on May 21 at Edna lake. Registration starts at 8, fishing starts at 8:30, and will end at 11 am. It is for kids ages 1 thru 15. The longest fish overall will win the grand prize trophy as well as a new fishing pole. 1st and 2nd place trophies will be given out in each of the 5 age groups and the lucky kid that catches the most fish will get a new fishing pole. Lunch is provided at no cost All children must be accompanied by an adult. Make sure to bring your own tackle, bait and chairs.







 

Preventing moss growth in farm ponds can often be challenging. In many cases, pond owners find it necessary to remove the algae from their pond. Fisheries and Aquatics Specialist Joe Gerken says the first option is removing the moss yourself.

Gerken says the second option is biological removal.  The last option for removal would be using chemicals. Gerken says if you do use chemicals to treat a fourth of the pond at a time. He says the chemicals kill the plant and then bacteria feed on the plant, which used oxygen and could kill the fish.

The Kansas Supreme Court has approved the legislative and congressional redistricting maps. Senator Virgil Peck says it is good that they came to a decision before they had to extend the deadline to file again passed the June 10^th extension.

Senator Peck says this will be one less thing they have to worry about when they go back in session on Monday. He says they will attempt to overturn Governor Laura Kelly's vetoes on a couple of bills.

Kansas District 12 Senator and the former candidate for U.S. House Kansas District Two has announced her candidacy for State Treasurer. Senator Caryn Tyson says she has a number of goals that motivated her to run for this position.

Senator Tyson, who serves as the Chair of the Assessment and Taxation Committee, says her time spent in the legislature and as the Chair will help her as the State Treasurer.

Senator Tyson has served in the Senate for nine years and works as a software engineer. Current Kansas Treasurer Lynn Rogers was appointed to that position by Governor Laura Kelly after now Congressman Jake LaTurner was elected to the U.S. House Kansas District Two seat.   

The Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce is getting ready to celebrate 115 years of impact in the community. Chamber Director Candi Westbrook says they are planning a celebration for next week.

Westbrook says as a part of the celebration they are wanting to bury a time capsule that they will open up at the 150-year celebration. Westbrook says they are going to include items from local businesses as well as items that represent the times or things that have happened recently like a Coffeyville mask. The celebration will be next Thursday, May 26^th from 4:00pm to 7:00pm at the Perkins Building.

U.S. Senators Jerry Moran and Roger Marshall announced that they have obtained 23 grants from the U.S. Department of Transportation for use in select Kansas airports.  Locally, Chanute's Martin Johnson Airport will get $144,00, Fort Scott Municipal gets $2,070,000 and Liberal's Mid-America Regional Airport will receive $570,000.

Senator Moran says local airports help bring economic opportunities and critical resources to communities across Kansas.  He says these grants are an investment into regional Kansas airports to make certain they are running safely and efficiently to support interstate commerce and travel to and from Kansas

The three known living survivors of the 1921 Tulsa Race Massacre are receiving a $1 million donation from a New York philanthropic organization. Business for Good co-founders Ed and Lisa Mitzen say 108-year-old Viola Ford Fletcher, 107-year-old Lessie Benningfield Randle, and 101-year-old Hughes Van Ellis will share the donation. The three previously received $100,000 each from the Tulsa-based non-profit The Justice for Greenwood Foundation. The three and descendants of victims are currently suing the City of Tulsa and other entities for reparations for the destruction and lost wealth as a result of the massacre in which a white mob that killed hundreds of Black residents and destroyed what had been the nation’s most prosperous Black business district.

Republican leaders in the Oklahoma House and Senate have announced an agreement on a $9.8 billion state spending plan. The deal announced Tuesday would be the largest budget in state history, an increase of nearly 10% over last year's spending plan. Unlike previous years, Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt wasn't a part of Tuesday's announcement. His office didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on the spending plan. Two years ago, Stitt vetoed key pieces of the budget proposal, prompting lawmakers of his own party to override his vetoes. Among the key provisions of this year's budget is a plan to send cash payments of $75 to each individual taxpayer and $150 to married couples who file jointly.

After more than 2500 residents voted on the pole, the people have chosen "Nearly Neon" as the official color of the lions at the entrance to Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence. You can't miss them that's for sure. If you haven't visited the gem of SE Kansas'  Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchel Zoo, then why not? Pack a picnic lunch or there are refreshments on site. Entry is free for the park and zoo, and unlike most things that are free, it's really worth it Or for just a little bit of coin you can take the train ride around the park, ride the old-fashioned carousel or make a splash in the waterpark. The zoo is the former home of "Able", the first bipedal, albeit a monkey, in space. The kiddos and grandkiddos will love the variety of things to see and do, so there is something for everyone and it won't break the bank to get out of the house and get everyone's face out of their phones for a while. Get out there and have some fun.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, the Coffeyville Police Department, and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office are conducting a homicide investigation after a man was shot and killed inside a Coffeyville home. 

Yesterday morning, at around 10:25am, the Kansas City Missouri Police Department contacted CPD after receiving a tip indicating that a dead body could be found at 1301 W. 7th St. in Coffeyville.  CPD Officers responded to the residence and monitored the area until 61-year-old David A. Jackson exited the duplex. The officers briefly questioned Jackson, entered the residence, and located the body of 47-year-old Melvin Simpson Jr, of Coffeyville.  Simpson had been shot and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Jackson was arrested and detained on unrelated charges.  An autopsy is scheduled.  Anyone with information about this crime is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME, or the Coffeyville Police Department at (620) 252-6160. 

Filamentous algae also known as pond moss can appear overnight in farm ponds. K-State Fisheries and Aquatics Specialist Joe Gerken says moss can be detrimental to fish and other aquatic life in that pond.

Gerken says it is important for pond owners to identify the specific cause of moss in order to attempt to prevent it. Gerken recommends allowing grass growth surrounding the pond to serve as a filter to reduce both nutrient and soil run-off into the pond.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly vetoed three bills including Senate Bill 34, which deals with COVID-19 mandates. Senator Virgil Peck says there will be an attempt to override the veto when they go back in session.

Senator Peck says they could also have to deal with the court's ruling on the congressional redistricting maps.  Senator Peck says that could be the end of the session unless they can't get the redistricting maps approved before the June 1^st registration deadline to run for office.

A bipartisan bill making key investments in several areas was signed by Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on Monday.

House Bill 2510 makes investments in areas important to "vulnerable" Kansans, such as education, economic development, mental health, senior services and veterans' services.

HB2510 ensures funding for services such as 9-8-8, the state's new suicide prevention hotline. It also increases funding to community mental health services, and also expands those services in areas such as south-central Kansas.

Furthermore, the bill allows for historic levels of funding to state universities, allowing them to freeze tuition and knock down a significant barrier to higher education.

A full copy of the press release, sent out by the governor's office, can be find here.

Rep. Ron Estes (R-Kansas) has cosponsored H.R. 7690, a bill prohibiting taxpayer dollars from funding the Biden administration's Disinformation Governance Board.

"The Biden administration is taking it upon themselves to be the standard-bearer of truth, but this Disinformation Governance Board is more like an Orwellian Ministry of Truth than a legitimate government working group," said Rep. Estes. "This bill prevents taxpayer dollars from funding this un-American and unconstitutional board that is counter to our country's foundational right of free speech."

The Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission will host a special meeting on Friday, May 27, 2022, via ZOOM for the sole purpose of introducing two items related to recently-passed legislation, as well as voting on three items that are time-sensitive.  Due to the passage of House Bill 2456, KDWP staff are requesting an amendment to KAR 115-2-1 to allow for two new lifetime licenses: one for kids age 5 or younger, with a maximum fee of $300; and one for kids 6 through 7 years of age with a maximum fee of $500. KDWP staff are requesting an amendment to KAR 115-9-3 to include the new kids lifetime combination hunting and fishing license with the other categories of lifetime hunting licenses, which may be purchased prior to obtaining a hunter education certificate. Commissioners will vote on deer, antelope and elk open season dates for the 2022/2023 archery, firearm, and muzzleloader seasons, bag limits and number of permits per unit.

The special meeting will be called to order promptly at 3:30 p.m. For video/audio streaming of the meeting, visit ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission.

The next regular Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission meeting will be held Thursday, June 23, 2022 at 1 p.m. at the Flory Meeting Hall West in Lawrence.

After 18 years of service to the Independence Community College Math and Science Division, Dr. Mona Saleh will retire at the end of the current academic year.

Saleh was born and raised in Alexandria, Egypt. In 1986, she completed her bachelor's and master's degree in Math and Physics from the University of Alexandria, Egypt. She was then selected and received a Doctoral Scholarship from the University of Kaiserslautern in Kaiserslautern, Germany, where she earned her doctorate in Physics. While in Germany, Dr. Saleh met her now-husband, Richard. 

In 2000, Dr. Saleh moved to the United States, where she worked at IVY Tech, Vincennes University, The University of Southern Indiana, and Montana University. She then moved to Independence in 2004 to start her position as Professor of Physical Science at ICC.

Saleh not only taught college courses but she worked with area Science Clubs to help promote the love of science in rural communities. She partnered with the local library giving talks and helping with the NASA exhibit and hosted observing sessions at the observatory for all age groups.

"All in all, I really enjoyed being a part of ICC, and I hope that I was a positive addition to its culture," said Saleh. "The Math and Science Division is my favorite. The faculty's knowledge and professionalism is something to be proud of."

Dr. Saleh was also awarded the 2022 Master Faculty Member of the Year. 

Multiple law enforcement vehicles are on the scene on Ellis Street between 7th and 8th Streets, which is near Field Kindley High School.

The Coffeyville Police Department did not have a comment at this time, but more information should be made available in the morning.

The suspect who pulled the fire alarm at the Field Kindley High School graduation has been identified.  The name of the suspect has not been released, but the Coffeyville Police Department has identified him and is currently looking to locate him.  

Officials at the graduation on Saturday quickly determined the alarm was a hoax and the ceremony continued on without interruption.  Falsely pulling a fire alarm is a crime and could be punishable by either a fine or even jail time.

The Great Kansas Fishing Derby returns for the second straight year. Sportsfishing Education Coordinator David Breth says their motivation behind the event was to encourage people to get outside and give them a reason to fish.

This is a state-wide fishing derby, with Montgomery County State Fishing Lake chosen as one of the participating lakes. Others in the area include Santa Fe Lake in Neosho County and Crawford County State Fishing Lake. Breth says there is no need to sign up or register for the event.

For more information on this event, Breth says you can go to ksfishderby.com or the Kansas Wildlife Department Fisheries Facebook page. The derby started this last weekend and will run until September 15^th.

A Labette County Commissioner has officially announced he will not run in the primary election for the district one seat. Commission Chairman Lonie Addis, who has served as a commissioner for forty years, says he has had several people ask him to reconsider and run again.

Addis says he will more than likely endorse a candidate in the future and offered to give advice to anyone running or considering running. Currently, there are two people who have filed to run with multiple others who have attended meetings and expressed some interest in running. Addis did jokingly leave the door open to run as a write-in.

According to a source within the Delaware Tribe of Indians, the Tribe has purchased approximately 5200 acres in Chautauqua County. They are working toward raising beef cattle on their newly purchased Ranch. The property was a large portion of the Red Buffalo Ranch, owned by TV personality Bill Kurtis.

The Delaware Tribe, based out of Bartlesville and Caney confirmed the sale, and plans are in motion to build a meat processing plant. The property where they want to build is the old Peru Truck Stop as it is right off the main highway. According to sources within the Tribe, they plan to process the cattle that they raise, and possibly they may look at bringing in outside beef to the facility as well.

UPDATE!!!!

KGGF Radio received a call from the Delaware Tribe and they wanted to clarify that they are not specifically looking to buy the Peru Truck Stop property. We apologize for any confusion this may have caused.

Gov. Laura Kelly has vetoed a bill that would prohibit government mask mandates in Kansas and curb the power of state and local health officials during outbreaks of infectious diseases. The law would have prevented state and local government officials from issuing mask mandates and prevent state and local health officials from ordering law enforcement officials and agencies to help them enforce orders dealing with infectious diseases. But don't look for an override as the measure passed with less than the two-thirds majorities in both chambers that are needed to override a veto.

With the warmer, sunnier days, it is more important than ever for people to protect their skin from sun damage.  Director of the Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Cancer Center Vicky Portwood says she advises everyone to wear sunscreen and protective clothing because a sunburn today can lead to skin cancer at some point down the road.

Portwood says some skin cancers such as basal cell and squamous cell carcinomas are slow-spreading, but melanomas spread quickly and can be deadly.  She suggests SPF-50 sunscreen for babies and fair-skinned or red-headed individuals, as well as wearing hats and other protective clothing for people who expect to be exposed to the sun.

Portwood's full interview with Bill Small at the Mighty 690, KGGF, can be heard at this link.

The Chautauqua County Commission received an update on upcoming elections this fall.

Due to ongoing legislation over redistricting at the state level, there has been no official notice of an election. However, dates are still unchanged as of this time. The deadline to file as a candidate, or switch parties before the primary election, is June 1st. The deadline to register is July 12th.

The upcoming primary will be notable for having a question regarding a Kansas Constitutional Amendment. County clerk Niki Collier said anyone, regardless of party affiliation or lack thereof, will able to vote on that question.

The primary is set to be held August 2nd. The general election will follow on November 8th.

The Coffeyville Police Department is asking for assistance in identifying a person caught on video pulling the fire alarm during the Field Kindley High School Graduation Saturday. Officials quickly determined the alarm to be a hoax and the ceremony continued on without interruption. To see a good image of the suspect log on to kggfradio.com or CPD Facebook page.

An Independence man is arrested after firing shots at another individual. Earlier this week, the Independence Police Department received a report of shots fired in the 300 block of S 18^th Street.

Witnesses reported a gold Mercedes pulled up to a house and the driver threatened a person with a weapon. Shots were fired and the Mercedes fled the area. Officers intercepted the Mercedes and arrested the driver after a short pursuit. Officers recovered shell casings and live ammunition from two different calibers and found a suspected bullet hole in the Mercedes.

33-year-old Marcus Lawrence was arrested for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon and criminal threat. Both individuals involved in the incident knew each other and the attack was not random. Police are asking residents in the area to share any surveillance camera video they think may help with the case.

Kansas Law Enforcement has donated protective equipment to the Ukrainian Military. That equipment includes around 300 vests and 50 helmets and it will vary in size and level of protection. U.S. Senator Roger Marshall says a number of different law enforcement agencies contributed to this donation.

Senator Marshall says the way they will get these donations to the people of Ukraine will be to go through the Ukrainian Embassy in Washington DC.  Senator Marshall says all of this equipment is a testament of what Kansans do when they come together. He says these donations will help military and law enforcement officials in Ukraine and save lives.

Sedan Police respond to a threat made at Sedan High School.

This morning Sedan PD responded to the high school for a report of a student who had made threatening remarks. During the investigation, SPD was able to determine there was no actionable threat and at no point were any students or staff in any danger.

Normal school activities were not disrupted, and the student was taken into custody. Charges are pending and the case will be submitted to the Chautauqua County Attorney for review.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has signed Senate Bill 84 into law, which will allow for sports wagering in the state. Senator Virgil Peck says the primary focus of this bill is to attract professional sports teams into Kansas.

Senator Peck says there are some restrictions on where bets can be placed. Senator Peck was not a supporter of the bill but SB 84 did pass with bipartisan support.

Governor Kelly says this is another mechanism that Casinos, restaurants, and other entertainment venues can utilize to attract Kansans to their establishments.

Kansan, Matthew Decker, in a story from NPR, finds a very peculiar axe in his front yard that had what appeared to be a root for a handle. He spied it pushing up from the ground after recent rains. To his amazement, it looked like it came right from a Hobbit in Lord of the Rings.

Although Decker says he hasn’t felt any special powers coming from the axe, it has caused quite a stir on Reddit where he first posted pictures of it. Decker hasn’t decided to sell the axe to a museum or antique store, but he hopes to get enough to do some repairs on his car. Visit our website www.kggfradio.com to see more.

The Independence City Commission recognized two firefighters with a Life-Saving Award at last night's commission meeting.

On April 8^th Independence Fire-EMS was dispatched to a structure fire located on South 14^th Street. Upon arrival, heavy smoke and flames were visible. Lt. Keenan Fyfe and Rural Firefighter Jordan Schmidt entered the structure for an initial search, located the victim in a bedroom and moved the victim outside to an awaiting ambulance.

IFD congratulates Lt. Fyfe and Firefighter Schmidt for their actions on April 8^th and for the life they saved. 

A Nowata man is arrested in Nowata County on a federal warrant.

34-year-old Matthew Speer was arrested by the Nowata County Sheriff's Office with the assistance of the Nowata Police Department and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. Speer was arrested for a no bond federal warrant after he was indicted by a Grand Jury on several charges in Indian Country. The charges are from an incident that happened in Delaware, Oklahoma on January 11^th.

Speer is accused of shooting at another person. The investigation by the NCSO revealed the alleged victim is of Native American descent and Speer is non-native. The McGirt ruling gives jurisdiction only to the Federal Government for prosecution. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms was called in for assistance and they were successful in obtaining indictments for Speer.

An Oswego cattle trader has been banned for life from trading.  The U.S. Department of Justice, Kansas District says that John Rife violated the Packers and Stockyards Act as well as violated prior injunctive orders entered by federal court.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office says that Rife operated on a dealers basis of cattle transactions with a suspended registration, operated without adequate bond, failed to maintain proper records and violated prior court orders imposing penalties and injunctive relief.  During a hearing, the court says that Rife’s violations jeopardized the financial integrity of the cattle markets.

A southeast Kansas business has been honored by Governor Kelly and the Kansas Department of Commerce.  Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas was one of six regional winners cited during the “To The Stars:  Celebrating Kansas Businesses banquet this week in Topeka.  Community Health Center was the winner of the Hospital-Non-Profit Award.

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas is based in Pittsburg and operates health centers in 14 southeast Kansas communities including Coffeyville, Independence and Parsons.  Dr. Jerry Hamm of Coffeyville and John Wyrick of Parsons both serve on their board of directors. 

KGGF 690AM will be temporarily down this afternoon. 

Work is being done on the AM transmitter and the station could be down for the majority of the afternoon.  The station is still available to stream and that link can be found here.

High school attendees of the first-ever Kansas Shrine Bowl Media Camp will get hands-on instruction from Pittsburg State University faculty and other media professionals from across the region.

Areas of emphasis will include sports documentaries, sports features, studio production, videography, sports journalism, digital video editing and more. The week-long camp will culminate with the Kansas Shrine Bowl All-Star Game. The fee for those who register before May 15th and after the 15th is $300 per student. The camp is limited to 30, you can call (913)602-8656 for more information.

Independence Police Department reports of a burglary in the 1700 block of N. 10th St. Monday night.

The thieves got away with several TVs and other miscellaneous household items.

Over 3.5 tons of unused medications were safely disposed of, in Kansas, during National Drug Take Back Day.

Kansas law enforcement officers collected 7,362 pounds of medicines at 66 locations throughout the state. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says safe storage and proper disposal are the keys to preventing the accidental or intentional misuse of prescription medications. Kansans have safely destroyed more than 118 tons of medications in the 22 collection days that have been held since 2010.

The drugs that are collected are turned over to the DEA, who safely destroys the medications. Unused prescriptions can be turned in year-round at many local law enforcement locations, including in Coffeyville.

A Lyon County man who was reported missing more than two years ago has been found safe in Fredonia.

Kansas Bureau of Investigation had listed 62-year-old Randy Hacker as missing in early April 2020. Lyon County sheriff's officials said Emporia Police recently received a tip about Hacker's whereabouts in Wilson County. Hacker was found early yesterday afternoon at a state facility in Fredonia.

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall visited the World War II Memorial in Washington D.C. with military veterans on Kansas Honor Air Flight #90. Senator Marshall says welcoming groups of Kansas veterans at the memorial is one of his favorite things to do.

Senator Marshall was in the U.S. Army Reserve from 1984 to 1991, rising to the rank of Captain. Senator Marshall recently backed legislation that was signed into law that will enable the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to create a pilot program to hire veterans to train service dogs.

Multiple area fire departments participate in an exterior firefighter training class presented by the Kansas Fire and Rescue Training Institute.

The class was hosted by the Independence Fire Department on the Independence Community College West campus. Joining IFD were firefighters from the Neodesha Fire Department, Caney Fire Department, Montgomery County Rural Fire and St. Paul-Mission Township.

The main focus of the training was the evolution of fire hose techniques involving props that simulated fires involving propane tanks, vehicle fires and a propane cylinder.

The unattended death of a Caney woman remains under investigation. 

The KBI says that an autopsy has been completed, but the final results from that autopsy, as to the manner of death, will take 6 to 8 weeks.  The body of 76-year-old Carol Wright was discovered in her home at 100 E. 5^th Street over the weekend after a 911 call to the Caney Police Department.

A juvenile that had been reported as a runaway last week has been located.

The Coffeyville Police Department, who had initially asked for help in locating Sydney Bradley, updated their Facebook post earlier this week indicating she had been found.

The first post had come on May 4th. It had been shared over 1,600 times.

Dave Ramsey's Financial Peace University class will be offered at the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce starting next week. Coordinator Frank Markins says this class is designed to help you eliminate debt and plan your future while learning how to live and give like nobody else.

Markins says the class will start next Tuesday, May 17^th, and will be located at the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce building at 807 Walnut Street. The cost of the class is $129 but included in that cost is a twelve-month subscription that gives full access to the Ramsey Solutions website.

A link to register for the Finacial Peace University class can be found here. You can also tune into Dave Ramsey Monday through Friday from 1:00pm to 2:00pm and 6:00pm to 8:00pm on the Mighty 690 KGGF.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has signed bipartisan legislation that will “Axe the Food Tax” eliminating the state sales tax on groceries.  This will provide Kansans with much-needed financial relief, especially as costs continue to rise. House Bill 2106 will completely eliminate the food sales tax by 2025.

Governor Kelly says when Kansans needed it most, they were able to bring both parties together to eliminate the state’s tax on groceries. She says because they saved for their collective future, they can now responsibly eliminate tax on groceries, while still boosting funding to Kansas schools, roads, and law enforcement.  Passing HB 2106 will help Kansans save money, keep Kansas dollars in Kansas, and make the state more competitive with its neighbors.

The Caney Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies across the state of Kansas in enforcing the “Click It or Ticket” campaign. Police Chief Kevin Kitterman says the campaign will begin on May 22^nd and continue through June 4^th.

Chief Kitterman says the difference between wearing and not wearing a seat belt could be life or death. The aim of this campaign is to reduce the number of preventable deaths and injuries that occur when unbuckled drivers and passengers are involved in traffic crashes. This is supported by a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signed a House Bill that will promote computer science education in the classrooms. USD 445 Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll says if they made the course a requirement additional staff could be needed.

The Bill will also supply additional funding for current and aspiring teachers to receive training in computer science programs. Dr. Correll says USD 445 understands the importance of this course.

Governor Kelly says by expanding computer science education and creating this transition program, the state can better retain the skilled workforce Kansas produces through its K-12 schools.

Kansas High School students may have more flexibility in the future for graduation requirements.  

A task force charged with reviewing graduation requirements has presented preliminary recommendations to the State Board of Education that would give students more latitude in picking courses that count toward graduation.  Currently, students must pass a minimum of 21 units in specific subjects to graduate.

We're officially one month away from the 7th Annual KGGF KQQF KUSN Radio Auction! This year's auction is scheduled for June 11th, and will be held once again at the Coffeyville Recreation Center in Walter Johnson Park.

Most items will go for 40-to-60% of retail value, but the bidding will stop when the price reaches 80%. Numbers are free and there are door prizes included this year as well.

Make sure to follow KGGF KQQF KUSN on Facebook, or check out the auction website to see new products up for bid.

A question by a Coffeyville City Commissioner about housing demolition came up at last night’s City Commission meeting. 

Commissioners were asked to approve the demolition of 11 houses when Commissioner Bob York said he had received concerns from neighbors about a house at 1208 W. 4^th and wondered why it wasn’t on the condemnation list.  City Manager Mark Hall explained that it is in the process of several steps.

Commissioners did approve the demolition of the 11 houses on the list. In other business, commissioners accepted a bid for 2-inch milling work on Cline Road between 4^th and 8^th Streets.  The bid was part of a CDBG grant and was awarded to J. Graham Construction for a bid not to exceed $912,887.   The contractor has 120 calendar days to complete the work.

The USD 445 Board of Education voted to approve the superintendent's recommendations to purchase student Chromebook laptops. Assistant Superintendent Michael Speer says they are allocated $400 per device by E-rate.

The board also received an update on the currently ongoing construction in Field Kindley High School and Roosevelt Middle School. Speer says currently the project is on schedule and could be finished a little earlier than the expected finish date of mid-July.

In other business, the board approved the school handbooks for FKHS, RMS, Community Elementary and the Early Learning Center and approved the republishing of the 2021-2022 school district budget.

Parsons Police are looking for the owner of a dog, who is wanted in an animal cruelty case.

Community Service Officer Ricky Thompson was notified about a dog that was tangled in its own cable in the backyard of a house in the 3100 block of 30^th Drive. According to neighbors, the owners had not been home for at least a couple of weeks. The dog was identified by dog tags as Midus, who was so thin that his ribs were showing and there was evidence of loss of muscle mass. Thompson found no evidence of food in the yard and found water bowls that had only been filled up by rain.

Parsons PD is working to locate the dog's owners for formal charging of animal cruelty. Midus was taken to Parsons Pet Hospital for treatment of neglect and checked for signs of physical abuse. CSO Thompson says the scene was gut-wrenching and that when he briefly left the yard Midus howled until he returned. Anyone with information on this incident should contact Parsons PD at (620)421-7060 or the tip line at (620)421-7057.

Montgomery County Commissioners met and addressed a request from Kent Wicker with Heck and Wicker a contractor who is has a contract to relocate County Road 4500.

In the bid, the allowance for fuel costs did not allow or foresee the sharp rise those costs which are at this time over $100,000 more than the bid. The commissioners moved to send a memo to the contactor to the effect that although they understood the concern of the contractor they would not and were not under the terms of the contact obligated to change or increase the bid.

In other business, the Human Resources Director Becky Lewis addressed the commissioners with a proposal to increase the incentives offered to the county employees in an effort to help retention. No action was taken other than to set up a work session for today to further explore the options. The results of that work session will be shared at next week’s meeting.

Much of Kansas is getting an early taste of summer this week, as temperatures hover around the low 90s.

Most of the state can expect highs to reach anywhere from 88-93F on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday this week. Fortunately, the SEK region is expected to be on the low end of that scale, with Coffeyville reaching highs of 87 on Tuesday and 88 on Wednesday. However, other areas will not be so lucky. Tuesday highs near Medicine Lodge, where the hottest temperatures can be found, are expected to reach 99F.

Temperatures will drop briefly this weekend before climbing back up to the high 80s by next Wednesday.

The City of Independence has several openings on various boards and commissions.

There are currently open spots on the city's Recreation Commission, Tree Board, and Park Board. Successful applicants for the Recreation Commission and and Park Board would begin on July 1st. Applications are due by noon June 17th, two weeks before the position begins.

The Tree Board has no start date listed, but applications are still due by noon on June 3rd.

A large group of people showed up in support of a USD 445 counselor whose contract was to be voted on to not renew. Community Elementary School Counselor Chelsey Martin's contract was being considered by the USD 445 Board of Education. Vice President Jason Barnett read the resolution that was voted on.

The USD 445 Board met for over an hour in executive session regarding the matter, in which they heard from Martin. Despite the show of support the Board voted unanimously, 7-0, to not renew the contract of Mrs. Martin. There were several, who showed up in support, unhappy with the Board's decision that shouted expletives at the board as they left the meeting.  

A U.S. Senator will be holding mobile office hours next week in Coffeyville. Senator Roger Marshall's mobile office hours will be from 11:00am to 1:00pm next Tuesday, May 17^th, at the Coffeyville Public Library.

The public is invited to meet with a staff member from Senator Marshall’s office to discuss any issues with federal agencies, and federal programs or to inquire about federal resources. Senator Marshall says one of his highest priorities has been ensuring that his staff and him are available to help Kansans with the assistance they need. He says with 105 counties in Kansas, they understand that some Kansans do not have direct access to their offices. Senator Marshall encourages those in Coffeyville and the surrounding area to stop by to receive guidance from staff members on federal assistance and other constituent services.

As Commissioner Lonie Addis considers retirement others have started showing interest in the seat that will open up at the end of the year. Bill Bulkley, who filed to run today, says he thinks he can do some good as a county commissioner.

Bulkley says he was raised in Labette County, moved away for about 30 years for work and has been back in the county for the last five years. Addis originally said he wasn't going to seek re-election but now says he is undecided. Anyone seeking office has until the June 1^st deadline to file.

One Labette County commissioner questions another about their involvement with a pro-wind energy group. Commissioner Lonie Addis questioned Commissioner Cole Proehl asking if he had received any money or worked for APA.

Commissioner Proehl denied any financial involvement with the group. Proehl was seen attending a senate hearing in February where APA's Kimberly Svaty was speaking. Svaty referred to Commissioner Proehl saying he had been working with RWE for the last two years.

When Commissioner Addis was asked why he waited until May to bring something up that happened in February he claimed he only found out about it in the last week.  

Montgomery County Attorney Lisa Montgomery has finalized a settlement in a lawsuit against the County Attorney’s office by the ACLU. 

In the settlement, the County Attorney’s office will create new policies to inform defendants in minor criminal cases about their rights to seek a diversion agreement.  The ACLU issued a statement saying the settlement will offer paths to justice that could ultimately save taxpayers millions of dollars in unnecessary incarceration costs.  Former County Attorney Larry Markle utilized diversion in 1.7% of cases while the national average is 9%.

The EPA will be holding a public meeting in Caney this week seeking input on a proposed plan to clean up lead contamination in the city.  The plan focuses on residential yards and child high-use areas. 

The meeting will be a virtual meeting scheduled for this Thursday evening from 6:30 until 8,  The link to join the meeting is:   www.epa.gov/superfund/caneyresidentialyards

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is conducting an investigation into the death of a Caney woman. 

Caney police responded to a 911 call Saturday morning at 12:35 to 100 E. 5th Street.  Upon arrival, police discovered a 76-year-old female deceased.  The Caney PD then contacted the KBI for assistance with the investigation.  According to a source at the KBI, an autopsy is scheduled for tomorrow morning to determine the cause of death. 

No other information as to what type of death until after the autopsy.  Typically the KBI is called in to assist with any unattended death situation.  More information will be reported as it becomes available.

The Coffeyville School Board will consider spending nearly a quarter of a million dollars for new laptops for students when the meet tonight.  Superintendent Craig Correll is making the recommending that the board approve the purchase of new student Chromebook laptops.

In other business the board is expected to approve the resignation or retirements of 7 teachers and assistants at Community Elementary and 2 in Child Nutrition while approving the hiring of 5 teaching personnel at CE, one at the Early Learning Center and a new assistant principal, Julie Stukesbary at CE.

The Board meets at 5:00 this evening at the Education Center.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has named the new Transportation Electrification Manager.

Tami Alexander was appointed to the position, The position was recently created to help the agency focus on strategic planning for electric transportation and to administer federal program funds. Alexander previously worked for Metropolitan Energy Center, a nonprofit organization, as their Senior Program Coordinator and served as the Central Kansas Clean Cities Coordinator. She was responsible for programs within the transportation department on alternative fuel infrastructure and vehicle deployments and also educated the public and governments on electric vehicles and EV charging equipment. Alexander started her new role on May the 2^nd.

The City of Sedan is holding its annual spring cleanup next week.

Persons wanting their trash picked up should go to City Hall, put their name on the list, and pay a $10 fee. Those who register must have their trash at curbside on their regularly-scheduled solid waste pick-up day.

The city will only be picking up large appliances and furniture, with a trash truck picking up the rest. Items that will not be picked up include tires, brush, lumber, batteries, hazardous chemicals, rocks, bricks, shingles, and yard waste of any kind. Metal products and appliances should be kept in seperate piles from trash items.

For more information, contact City Hall at 725-3193.

The rain from the last several days has moved out of the area, however the flood warning continues through tomorrow.  Runoff from the rains is continuing and area rivers, including the Verdigris, Neosho and Fall Rivers are not expected to crest until early tomorrow morning.

Minor to moderate flooding of the rivers is expected as well as creek and streams as well as low lying and flood prone areas.  Do not drive into water over roadways or drive around barricades.

Thanks to a quick-thinking clerk in Independence a child predator is brought to justice. The Montgomery Co Chronicle reported that Kaiffe Gary Aponte, age 53, of Topeka agreed to a plea bargain as jurors were being seated in the Montgomery Co. courtroom for the trial.

Aponte pleaded no contest to two counts of attempted aggravated sexual battery on an 18-year-old from Arizona in an Independence motel on May 15, 2019.

The girl is from a Navajo Reservation in Arizona and has developmental needs. This was a big factor in the Montgomery County prosecuting attorney’s plea deal. Not wanting to subject the now 21-year-old to reliving the trauma inflicted by Aponte.

Thankfully a clerk in the motel in which the two stayed noticed some unusual behavior on the part of Aponte. When they looked up Aponte on Google and found him to be a registered sex offender, the clerk called the Independence police department and when they arrived IPD discovered the victim had been declared missing from Arizona.

A Kansas Congressman has announced his intent to seek re-election.  U.S. Representative Tracey Mann of the 1^st District says he will seek a second term in Congress.  Mann, a former Lieutenant Governor of Kansas has served as the 1st District’s Representative since 2021.

Mann, a Republican currently serves on the Agricultural and Veterans Affairs committees.  The 1^st District is the largest in the state encompassing all or part of 62 counties in western and northern Kansas.

A South Coffeyville man is arrested for a domestic violence incident. 32-year-old Ricky Bryant was arrested earlier this week by the Nowata County Sheriff's Office. Bryant was arrested for domestic assault and battery in the presence of a minor and threatening to commit acts of violence.

A Nowata County Deputy was called to an address east of South Coffeyville for a fight in progress. A joint investigation with the South Coffeyville Police Department revealed an argument escalated and Bryant is accused of punching someone at the residence. When another family member intervened, Bryant attempted to strike him. This family member "karate chopped" Bryant on the nose to stop him. Bryant is currently incarcerated on a $10,000 bond.

A mix-up in paint colors turns into a great promotional opportunity for a park and zoo. SEK Delta Waterfowl volunteered to paint the lion statues at Riverside Park and Ralph Mitchell Zoo as a part of Love Independence Day. Park Manager Scott Patton says a slight mix-up happened when they went to pick up the paint.

The posts of the newly painted statues have gone somewhat viral on Facebook with people both liking and disliking the brighter color. Patton says even former Commander of the International Space Station Leroy Chiao gave his opinion.

Patton says this simple mistake has given them some good attention and helped promote the park and zoo. There is currently a poll up to decide if they are going to stick with the brighter color. The poll can be found here.

The flood warning for the area has been extended until 2:00 tomorrow morning.  Counties included in the flood warning are Montgomery, Labette, Wilson, Neosho and Chautauqua Counties. 

Parsons and Oswego are predicted to see moderate flooding along the Neosho River by tomorrow morning, while Coffeyville and Independence are expected to see minor flooding along the Verdigris by the early morning hours.  Neodesha and Fredonia are also expected to see minor flooding when the Fall River crests tomorrow morning. Rain is expected to move out of the area tonight and most area rivers are expected to crest between 2:00am and 7:00am tomorrow.

Pictured is the Verdigris River at the Highway 169 bridge on the east side of Coffeyville.

"Horses of Hope" and the American Wheelchair Mission will benefit from the Hearts A'Fire Charity Event, sponsored by God's Faithful Servants, Saturday, June 11 at the Woodshed Ranch near Welch, OK.

Kate Long explained the mission of God's Faithful Servants on Bill Small's morning show on KGGF, There's a full day of food and events scheduled for the morning and evening of June 11, including a performance by Jana Jae of “Hee Haw” fame, a mustang demonstration, and a Horses of Hope demonstration, along with music by the Western Way Band. The evening schedule includes performances by Susie McEntire, Creekhouse, and a BBQ Dinner.

Tables for 8 are available for $250 for the morning events, and $500 for the evening events. Kurt Long says that individual seats are now available. For reservations or information, call 620-515-5111.

The past meets the present as the future awaits when Coffeyville Community College plays host to the Fine Arts Alumni Weekend, May 6-7.  CCC Band Instructor David Wiggins says musicians from all over will take part in the weekend event.

The event kicks off with an alumni band concert and visual arts studio demonstration on Friday, May 6 at 7:00pm, and continues on Saturday, May 7th with a fine arts reception at 10:00am, followed by the Red Raven Scholarship Bash at 4:00pm.

For more information, contact Markel Porter or David Wiggins at the college.

Montgomery County Judge Jeffrey Gossard accepted a plea agreement for Ruben Alfonso Ruiz-Robles in which he would agree to plead no contest to one count of involuntary manslaughter in exchange for a lesser sentence.

Montgomery county attorneys believed it would be difficult to convince a jury that Ruiz-Robles was guilty of 1st-degree murder, due to the fact that he had no criminal history and a key witness chose not to testify. Although Ruiz-Robles originally faced up to life in prison, the judge decided to sentence him to 32 months in prison. Ruiz-Robles must also serve 24 months in post-release supervision and be a registered violent offender for 15 years.

Free meals will be distributed in Independence this evening.  Lisa Wilson with the Independence Chamber says the meals are open to anyone who needs a meal.  Tonight's meal will be at the Wesley Center, 111 E. Maple beginning at 6:00pm. 

Wilson says other churches in Independence offer free meals as well.  The First Christian Church at 319 W. Laurel offers free meals on Tuesday evenings and the First Baptist Church at 220 N. Penn offers free meals on Wednesday evenings.

The Cherry Blossom Festival returns to Cherryvale this weekend.  The festival will take place tomorrow and Saturday in Cherryvale’s Logan Park.  Janet Reece with the Cherryvale Chamber says there’s a full slate of activities and exhibits on both days.

The Cherry Blossom Festival began 30 years ago in Cherryvale and again will be tomorrow and Saturday at Logan Park.

Kansans will share in the settlement that was announced yesterday with Turbo Tax.  Attorney General Derek Schmidt says that about 40,000 Kansans will share in over $1.1 million from Intuit, the parent company of Turbo Tax.  The settlement is the Kansas share of the $141 million settlement announced yesterday in a suit by all 40 states and the District of Columbia.

In addition to the monetary settlement, Turbo Tax must suspend its “free, free, free” internet advertising campaign.  The multi-state investigation found that the company was using deceptive digital tactics to steer low-income consumers away from federally funded, free tax services and toward their own commercial products.

Flood Warnings are in effect for much of the area today.  Warnings have been issued for Montgomery, Labette, Neosho, Chautauqua and Wilson Counties.  The steady rainfall yesterday and overnight is expected to continue through this morning.  Minor flooding is expected along the Verdigris, Neosho and Fall Rivers affecting Coffeyville, Independence, Neodesha, Fredonia, Chanute, Parsons and other towns around the rivers.

Three to six inches of rain have fallen across most of the area since yesterday.  Here at the KGGF studios in downtown Coffeyville 5.4 inches have fallen as of earlier this morning.

Drivers are reminded not to drive around barricades or into flooded roadways.

The leak showing the U.S. Supreme Court was set to overturn the decision of Roe v. Wade is an attack on the institution and undermines the Supreme Court according to Senator Roger Marshall.  He says we shouldn't be surprised by this because this is what Democrats do.

Senator Marshall says while they need to look at the Supreme Court they also should look at Democrats.  He says Americans will see that when they don't like the rules they try to change the game. 

The Coffeyville Community College Academic Challenge team kept its perfect record en route to a first place finish in state competition last weekend.

The team traveled to Salina to compete against several other previously-qualifying teams. CCC finished the first round robin phase with a perfect record and earned the #1 seed. They then proceeded to beat #2 Garden City, #3 Cowley, and #4 Johnson a second time to earn advantage in the finals. Only needing to win one more round, they kept their perfect record intact and took home the first place trophy.

Coffeyville's AJ Kohler was the #2 individual player, and team captain Zachary Heidenreich finished 5th place overall. Kohler and Heidenreich were joined in the finals by teammates Dawn Parker and Danielle Deller, as well as Kassandra Harris, Sydney Neidigh, and Christopher Potter.

Local area fire departments teamed up to tackle a fire in downtown Caney late last night.

Departments from Coffeyville and Independence were called in to provide mutual aid assistance on the structure fire, which involved two businesses. Along with the Caney Fire Department, they were able to stop the blaze before it spread to other buildings.

We'll have more details if and when they become available.

The Coffeyville Police Department is asking for the public's assistance in finding a runaway juvenile.

Sydney Bradley of Coffeyville was last seen at her residence on Tuesday. She was last seen wearing wearing a grey sweatshirt, black shorts, and leopard print, "hey dude" shoes. She is possibly heading toward Labette, Kansas.

Contact the police department at 620-252-6160 if you have any information of Bradley's whereabouts.

A special cruise honoring Field Kindley High School seniors is coming up this weekend.

Senior Cruise Night is scheduled for this Saturday, May 7th in Coffeyville. The public is invited to come out and celebrate with the senior class of 2022. The cruise itself will start at 6 PM, with a special seniors-only cruise at 7 that will double as a parade. There will be prizes for best decorated car and best "ride."

A flood watch will be in effect for the area from noon today through 1pm tomorrow.  Most of the area is included in the watch area including Montgomery, Chautauqua, Labette, Wilson and Neosho Counties.  

Rain is expected to begin this afternoon and again tomorrow morning with one to three inches expected by tomorrow morning.  However, some areas have the potentioal for more than three inches of rain.  Runoff could cause flooding of rivers, creeks, streams and other low lying or flood prone areas.

If you come upon water across a roadway do not attempt to cross it.  Remember, turn around, don't drown!

The Fab Lab ICC Blues Night has been canceled. 

The event, which was to showcase the Fab Lab’s Guitar making class had been scheduled for Saturday, May 14^th at Sassy’s Event Center in Sycamore.  According to the Fab Lab’s Director, Jim Correll the event has been canceled due to a scheduling conflict with the venue.     

The storm season is here as evidenced by the Andover tornado last Friday.  Montgomery County Emergency Management Director, Rick Whitson has released a current list of public storm shelters throughout Montgomery County.  In the event that threatening weather approaches your location and you do not have a safe place to cover you can seek shelter at any of the public shelter locations in Coffeyville, Independence, Caney or Cherryvale.  There are certain rules that may apply.  The rules, locations and entrance information can be found below.

Coffeyville

Community Elementary School, 102 S. Cline – During the school year it’s available after 3:30pm or anytime on weekends and summer.  Enter south door of multi-purpose room.  No pets.

Field Kindley High School, 1110 W 8^th St. – During the school year available after 3:30pm or anytime on weekends and summer. Enter north side of gym.  No pets.

Jerry Hamm Early Learning Center, 200 N Walnut -  After 3:30 during school year.  Enter east and west side of new addition.  No pets.

1^st Church of God, 2010 W 5^th

St Paul’s Lutheran Church, 506 W 9^th

Independence

Memorial Hall, 401 N., Penn – Pets must be in a carrier or on a leash.

Independence High School Gym, 1301 N 10^th – Use the northwest entrance to the gym.  No pets

Montgomery County Judicial Center, 300 E Main – Use the south entrance Pets must be in a carrier and will be placed in a designated area.     

Temporary City Hall Building D, 811 W Laurel – Pets must be in carriers or on a leash

Caney

Methodist Church at 3^rd and High

Liberty Church at 3^rd and Main

Cherryvale

Cherryvale Public Library, 329 E Main – Mon – Fri 11am – 6pm.  Enter through north or south entrances.  Handicap access on the south end of the building.

1^st Baptist Church, 100 N Montgomery – Access on east side of Church.

United Methodist Church, 305 W 3^rd – Enter through east side of church, just south of the Main Entrance.  No pets

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced yesterday that tax collections for the state were up once again.  Total collections for April exceeded $1.5 billion which was over revised estimates by more than 13% or $178.4 million.

Those numbers include both income and sales tax collections.  Sales tax collections were $245 million, 3.6% more than April of last year.  Individual income tax collections made up the bulk of gains, up 21.2% overestimates at $1 billion.  April corporate tax collections fell slightly below estimates at $141.5 million.

In announcing the tax collection numbers Governor Kelly made another push for her "axe the tax" plan on grocery sales taxes ahead of the gradual phase-out that was passed by the legislature.  

Nowata County Commissioners followed up on a discussion item from last week and passed a resolution to purchase light towers in conjunction with Washington County. 

It had been mentioned during last week’s discussion that the County would save money by going in conjunction with Washington County.  The County will need to receive its light towers by November 30^th on order to qualify for matching funds from Oklahoma Emergency Management.

A truck has been stolen in Caney and the police department is asking for the public's help in finding it.

A 1997 Chevy Pickup was stolen from behind the residence of 106 North Ridgeway sometime between Wednesday, April 27^th, and yesterday. The vehicle had fire damage and was more than likely loaded on a trailer to move the vehicle.

Anyone with information on this stolen truck is asked to contact Caney PD at (620)879-2141.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran visited Coffeyville Regional Medical Center on a recent trip to Coffeyville. Senator Moran says he values rural Kansas and understands the importance of rural healthcare.

Senator Moran says we often think of the small town not being able to receive healthcare but it can be a problem in every community.   

A Caney woman resists officers while being arrested after a traffic stop.

This weekend, a Caney Police Officer stopped a vehicle for traffic violations. The driver of the vehicle was identified as 27-year-old Katie Kelso, who did not have a valid driver's license. K9 Ozzy gave a positive indication of the presence of drugs in the vehicle. When the officer tried to place Kelso under arrest she became combative and resisted. She continued to resist by kicking the patrol car when officers attempted to put her in but she was eventually taken into custody.

Officers searched the vehicle and found methamphetamine. Kelso was transported to the Montgomery County Jail with pending charges of felony resisting arrest, possession and multiple traffic violations. She is currently on bond for a separate case in Montgomery County.

Representatives of the Kansas Housing Resources Corporation will be in Coffeyville this week to get input on awarding funds recently made available by the state for moderate income housing and a rural home guarantee program. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says the focus will be on moderate income housing.

Westbrook says that the meeting will include not only state representatives but also local officials and entities involved in implementing housing programs so that they are all on the same page. Officials will be meeting at the Best Western Hotel this Wednesday at 1:00pm.

More storms will make their way through the area this afternoon and into the late evening.

The National Weather Service in Wichita is reporting the potential for severe weather through much of southern Kansas, with areas such as Coffeyville and Parsons in an area of "some risk." This would include the possibilty of tennis ball sized hail, 70 mph winds, and even tornadoes this evening.

In case severe weather strikes, make sure to tune into 690AM, KGGF for updates and live coverage.

A Coffeyville woman was injured in an accident Friday afternoon in a two-vehicle crash on Highway 400.  51-year-old Gaby Reck, of Coffeyville, was transported to medical facilities in Independence with suspected minor injuries.

The accident occurred 2 miles west of the Highway 169 interchange when Reck signaled a right-hand turn and then turned left.  She was struck by a vehicle trying to pass.  The second vehicle was driven by Winston Griffin, of Junction City, who was not injured in the accident.  

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskins Jr. was one of the speakers who addressed the crowd during the ribbon-cutting for the new Union Pacific Pocket Park in downtown Coffeyville this weekend.

Among the others who spoke were Mayor Ann Marie Vanoster and representatives from the Union Pacific Railroad.  The crowd was also entertained Saturday by Cherokee Musician and Composer Tommy Wildcat and the Back Roads Band.

Chief Hoskins says there are 13,000 Cherokee citizens living in Kansas, with the majority of them in southeast Kansas.  He says The Cherokee Tribe has a long history of working with the communities they serve.  The Union Pacific Railroad donated $25,000 to help build the Park.