The Sedan Police Department is cautioning drivers about the speed limit inside city limits.

The speed limit on residential streets in Kansas is 30mph, unless otherwise posted. Police Chief Kirk Richardson says they support your right to drive at that speed, but they respect your decision to slow it down in neighborhoods even more. He says they are well aware of the problem areas and are asking people to watch their speeds carefully as they have adopted a zero-tolerance policy on residential roadways. 

The Nowata Chamber of Commerce has announced that their July 4th celebration will go on as planned on Monday. A shortage of fireworks had some concerned that they may have to make alterations to this year's festivities.

The Nowata Fire Department will continue with their planned fundraiser at noon at which time they will be having a fish fry for $10.

The Chamber will continue with their turtle races at 5 pm on the basketball courts. A live auction will begin at 6:30 pm and fireworks will follow at dark.

Labette county commission chair Lonie Addis has announced a change to tomorrow’s special meeting. The special meeting will still begin at 9 am in the commission room at the courthouse in Oswego, however, Matt Atteberry, Executive Director at Labette Center for Mental Health Services has a conflict at 9 and instead will be in at 10 am. Lisa Scott will be in at 9 am to give a report on the increase in  COVID numbers in the county.

Mr. Addis is requesting that the county clerk and county counselor be in for the report unless they have a conflict. He says they will also begin discussion on the Labette County Health Department Budget with Ms. Scott. At 9:30 Scott Thompson, from Class LTD will present the 2023 Intellectual Disabilities budget. Addis says they will not schedule or call on Pubic Works, Sheriff, Jail, Special Bridge, Noxious Weed or Abandoned cemetery until a later date.

The Fab Lab at ICC invites parents who want to know more about the upcoming STEM Camp for Youths in the 6^th, 7^th, or 8^th grade to attend a parent orientation. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics.

Two sessions will be offered on Thursday, July 7^th at either 5:30 or 6:30 pm. Parents who have already registered their children for the upcoming camp or parents who just want to know more about the STEM camp or other upcoming Fab Lab youth programs are encouraged to attend. It will be held at the Fab Lab ICC, 2564 Brookside Dr. in Independence. Refreshments will be served and tours of the Fab Lab are available.

The STEM youth camp starts July 11^th and lasts until July 29^th. Food and transportation for participating students will be provided. The camp is free, in which they look to empower young students with STEM and entrepreneurship skills in hopes of helping them build future success. For more info about and registration links for the adult and youth STEM programs can be found at www.fablabicc.org or direct your specific questions to Fab Lab Program Developer Laura Schaid at lschaid@indycc.edu or call 620-332-5499. As always the links and phone number will be in the printed version of this story on our website www.kggrradio.com

The Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce would like to invite you to breakfast. On Wednesday, July 6^th at 7:30 am the Chamber will host Business Over Breakfast at Coffeyville’s Best Western.

The Chamber’s goal for this monthly event is to provide insight into business, community, and legislative issues and share the stories of those making a difference in Coffeyville. Speakers this month will include Brian Lawrence and Lindsay Howerton with CRMC, Ron Wade and Chris Williams with the MG Co Sheriff, Doug Mund and Linda Follet-LHEAT (Local Health Equity Action Team), and Mike Bradley and Justin Wintjen.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is sponsoring this month’s event. Find out what’s going on in Coffeyville this Wednesday and get a hot breakfast too!

The Fab Lab at ICC will host quilt making class. Janet Mayes, sewing/quilting expert, will instruct the class. She will help quilters with a Halloween-themed quilt. The class will start July 16^th and end August 6^th. They will be on each Saturday from 9 am until noon.

The course is ideally suited for intermediate quilters. Some additional work may be required outside of class. Participants will produce a 62-inch square completed quilt. The cost will be $80 per person, but they do have limited scholarships to help offset the cost for those in need. You can register online at www.fablabicc.org. You can call Ms. Mayes at 918-978-2233 if you need more info or have questions.

GOP Gubernatorial front-runner collects 2 more endorsements. Yesterday Kansas Farm Bureau endorsed current Attorney General Derek Schmidt for Governor. Then today the National Rifle Association and its state affiliate the Kansas State Rifle Association have also endorsed Derek Schmidt.

This is the 3rd major endorsement in the span of a week. Yesterday marks the second time Schmidt has secured the backing of a leading Kansas trade organization that either supported Laura Kelly or remained neutral in the 2018 governor’s race. KFB did not make a general election endorsement in the race for governor. Last week the Kansas Fraternal Order of Police-State Lodge endorsed Schmidt, in 2018 they gave Kelly the nod.

Retiring State Representatives Jim Kelly of the 11^th District and Richard Proehl of the 7^th District were honored at a reception Wednesday evening.  Constituents came out to thank both for their service.  Kelly reflected on some of the accomplishments he takes great pride in including the Mega Housing Bill, banking reform and Telehealth.

Kelly also said it has been a real honor to serve.

The reception was held at the Coffeyville Country Club and hosted by the Chamber of Commerce.               

Coffeyville City Commissioners approved establishing policies for City financing of certain public improvements by levying special assessments during last night’s City Commission meeting.  City Manager, Mark Hall explained this is a developmental tool that doesn’t add a burden to taxpayers.

Hall went on to say that the special assessments could also be used for improvements to existing property.

In other business at last night’s Commission meeting Commissioners also approved purchasing property for the building of houses under the USDA’s Mutual Self-Help Housing program, entering into a service agreement for engineering services to upgrade the North Industrial Park Station that was originally built in the 1970’s and transferring ownershio of the baseball and softball fields at Walter Johnson Park to Coffeyville Community College

Commissioners also approved a noise ordinance that would establish policies and penalties for disturbing and repetitive noise within the City.

The top three administrative positions in Caney city government will be new.

According to the Montgomery County Chronicle, City Clerk Debbie Morrison tendered her resignation to the council and it will be effective July 29^th.

In a vote of 6-2, the city administrator’s contract was not extended by city councilors. City administrator Fred Gress was not aware that a decision would be made, and the issue was not listed on the agenda in advance of Monday’s meeting. He was not part of the two executive sessions in which councilors conferred about Gress’ job performance. As per protocol regarding employees’ privacy rights, no reason was given publicly for not granting Gress an extension. He will continue his regular duties until Sept. 8^th.

Finally, the city of Caney is transitioning from an elected city treasurer to a council-appointed position. A decision that was approved by voters several years ago. Therefore, at Monday’s meeting councilors agreed on the city treasurer’s job description and will post the position soon.

Parsons Lake is currently under an algae bloom warning. Everyone is being advised to stay clear of the algae bloom. This includes no swimming and the beach is also closed. Fishing is still allowed but any fish that are kept need to be washed thoroughly and only fillets can be used. Boating away from the algae is not an issue. The main concern is for children or pets that come into contact with it.

The deadline to register to vote is coming up in early July.

To vote in the August 2^nd primary election you will need to be registered by July 12^th. Kansans who are not registered to vote but would like to participate in the primary election must complete a voter registration form. Those who have recently moved or changed their name must re-register to vote.

Secretary of State Scott Schwab says he encourages all eligible Kansans to exercise their constitutional right and participate in the electoral process. Kansans can register to vote online or check the status of their voter registration at VoteKansas.gov. Kansans may also register to vote at their county election office, the Secretary of State’s office, or at their local DMV.  

West Elk unified school district 282 will say goodbye to longtime Patriot and Athletic Director Dana Talaferro. Talaferro’s career spans 40 years at West Elk where he taught, coached, and did AD work.

He said in an email statement that he enjoyed so many shared experiences and so many relationships with students, players, teachers, coaches officials, and administrators. Craig Maynard has been named as the new Activities/Athletic Director and will take on his duties later this summer.

Labette County Commission Chairperson Lonie Addis has called for a special meeting for Wednesday, June 29^th at 9 am and then the regular meeting will be Thursday, June 30^th at 9 am as well. An agenda will be provided for that meeting. This is to replace the canceled meeting that was scheduled for July 5^th. Addis has also called a special meeting for July 8^th at 9 am. Both special meetings are being held to work on the 2023 budget. Addis says there will be 2 to 3 special meetings a week until the public hearing is set.

A come-and-go retirement party is being hosted by the Coffeyville Area Chamber of
Commerce. Representative Jim Kelly of Kansas’ 11th district and Richard Proehl, Representative from the 7^th district are both retiring this year. The reception will be held at the Coffeyville Country Club on June 29^th from 4 to 6 pm. For those in attendance, there will be awards and presentations at 5 pm.

The next step in the USDAs’ Mutual Self-Help Housing Program in Coffeyville will be considered by City Commissioners when they meet in regular session tonight.  The self-help housing program has a goal to build 20 new affordable homes in Coffeyville over the next two years.  Tonight Commissioners will consider purchasing property for 5 of the homes on Morgan.  They will also consider surveying of those properties.

In additional business Commissioners will consider resolutions to enter into an agreement for electrical engineering services for the North Industrial Park Station which supplies electricity for several businesses in the Industrial Park and a resolution to transfer ownership of the baseball and softball fields at Walter Johnson Park to Coffeyville Community College.

And in a lengthy agenda the Commission will consider ordinances to update residency requirements for city employees and the establishment of a noise ordinance.

Commissioners will meet at 6:30 this evening at City Hall.

The potential for wind turbines in Labette County continues to be a large topic of discussion at county commission meetings. Zoning is often mentioned as the best way to keep RWE out, however, Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says he doesn't like the idea of zoning.

The commission is continuing to look into putting a moratorium in place to do more research on zoning. Commissioner Terry Weidert says he has been doing a lot of research and talking to other counties for advice. He says Wabaunsee County has put restrictions in place that would make it difficult for wind farms in their county.

Significant savings for the county has been achieved by upgrading the lighting in all county buildings, including the courthouse, the judicial center, Dearing maintenance barn, county shop, sign shop, parking garage, and the county offices in Coffeyville including the health department, tag office, and senior citizens center. As a result, the lighting cost for the county has dropped 86% since switching to LED lighting.

In his report to the commissioners, County Building Maintenance Supervisor Jeff Phelps said that since 2017 when the county started replacing all the old bulbs and florescent apparatus, the county has spent just under $37,000 on interior and exterior lighting and that’s figuring in insurance reimbursements and grant money. In that same time frame, the county has saved over $75,000 in electric costs for lighting.

It has also improved cooling costs as the new lighting provides more light with less heat. In fact, Phelps measured the intake temperature of the HVAC return duct before the switch and after and there is a difference of about 7 or 8 degrees on average in the judicial building. So the savings have gone beyond just lighting costs.

The Montgomery County Attorney, who is under a court-ordered deadline, meets with Commission about staffing issues.

County Attorney Lisa Montgomery tells commissioners that Judge Jeffrey Gettler ordered her office to have all journal entries entered within 2 weeks of sentencing. In order to comply with the Judge’s orders, Montgomery asked the commissioners for unlimited overtime due to understaffing in her office. Commission Chairman Robert Bever asked if they had any success in filling positions in her office. Montgomery says she has an interview with an applicant later this week.

The commissioners did not grant overtime and told Montgomery to make hiring someone the highest priority. Montgomery says she can’t be jailed but could be brought before the state disciplinary administrative office and could lose her license, fined or both.  She says her assistant could face the same punishment and even possible jail time. The commission says if her officer runs into any issues and can’t get caught up they will hire an attorney for her.  Montgomery is up for re-election this fall.

Montgomery says in an effort to have more time to review plea deals and more time to spend with journal entries, she has advised all defense attorneys seeking amendments for plea bargains to submit those one week prior to court. Montgomery says she and her assistant were taking calls on their personal cell phones from attorneys while off the clock, or during other court proceedings. As a result, this will make dockets slower, which is the opposite effect the state had when they assigned Montgomery County a third judge.

Attorney General and GOP hopeful for Governor Derek Schmidt, picks up another endorsement on Saturday. The Kansas State Lodge-Fraternal Order of Police made the announcement at the Kansas FOP Annual Conference in Overland Park, which was attended by Schmidt.

According to a press release, Kansas FOP President Casey Slaughter presented the endorsement after Schmidt addressed the conference attendees. The Kansas FOP is made up of more than 3,100 sworn law enforcement officers from federal, state, county, and municipal agencies throughout Kansas and joins the National Latino Peace Officers Association and National Border Patrol Council as Law enforcement organizations endorsing Schmidt for Governor. Schmidt also has been endorsed by more than two dozen current and former Kansas sheriffs.

Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks makes it easier for hunters and anglers in Kansas to enjoy and access outdoor recreation. Beginning this month, KDWP’s all-new licensing purchase system – Go Outdoors KS –  is fully integrated, with no need to have a separate login to “check-in” and out of KDWP properties.

The new mobile app will have far more ease of access, sign in one time and you can buy licenses or check into a location right from your phone. You can also access the system from any web browser. To see more or just explore the new-and-improved hunting and fishing licensing system go to https://ksoutdoors.com/checkin

You can download the app in your Apple or Google Play store. As always visit our website www.kggfradio.com and click on the link in the printed version of this story.

An advocate from Family Life Center Safehouse will be making weekly stops in Elk and Chautauqua Counties. The center is based in El Dorado, KS and its mission is to encourage, enlighten and empower individuals affected by domestic and sexual violence and help mitigate trauma by proving unbiased, comprehensive survivor services.

Advocate with Family Life Center Safehouse, Crystal Vancil will be in Moline at 109 N. Main on Tuesdays, and then she will be in Sedan at 216 N. Chautauqua St. on Thursdays. While at both locations she will do outreach within each community and help clients with their needs. For more information, you can call 620-583-9521 or call the office at 316-321-7104 or 800 870-6967. Go to our website kggfradio.com and all the phone numbers are posted there.

A United States Senator from Kansas and an OBYGN responds to the Roe vs. Wade ruling. Senator Dr. Roger Marshall says he has had the honor of delivering over 5,000 babies.

Marshall says he hopes this begins healing the wounds the pro-abortion agenda ripped open on American society almost 50 years ago.

Marshall says he urges all Americans to remain peaceful and respectful during the protest of this decision. He says justice cannot be served under the threat of violence.

The City of Independence has announced a change to city hall's hours.  In efforts to better serve its customers and employees, the city is making adjustments to its schedule. Beginning July 5^th, the new hours will be Monday through Thursday from 8:00am to 4:00pm and Friday 8am to noon.

The Monday through Thursday schedule includes reopening City Hall over the noon hour, which City Manager Kelly Passauer says has been voiced as a request by several community members needing to conduct business during their lunch breaks. The schedule change will also benefit employees. They will still work a 40-hour week but the adjusted hours offer employees a Friday schedule with more personal time.

Legislators across the county weigh in on the landmark decision by the Supreme Court today.

Kansas GOP Representative Ron Estes in his comments on the Supreme Court Ruling overturning Roe v. Wade says “After more than 60 million babies were denied the blessing of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness before they were even born, the disastrous and misguided Roe v. Wade ruling from 1973 has finally been overturned. Today’s ruling does not ban abortion but returns abortion regulation to each state and their democratically elected officials. As the left continues to push radical abortion policy in Kansas, this gives a new voice to the majority who want common-sense laws that protect mothers and babies, like parental consent for minors, no taxpayer-funded abortions, and an end to late-term abortions.”

Across the nation, people are responding to the historic announcement by the United States Supreme Court that officially overturns the ROE versus WADE law that was enacted originally in 1973. The announcement was made Friday morning and has garnered both protests and celebrations in cities nationwide.

Oklahoma Attorney General John O’Connor speaks on the impact on Oklahoma in general and on women and children in particular. State Representative Wendy Stearman, who wrote the bill to restrict abortion activities in Oklahoma expressed her joy that what she felt was the right decision was made by SCOTUS.

Going forward, states will now need to address the impact of this decision in their individual legislatures. As they do, changes will also need to be made concerning how to help women facing unwanted pregnancies and also with adoption agencies as more children enter the system who need forever homes.

Kansas Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial hopeful Derek Schmidt has weighed in on today's Supreme Court decision overturning Roe v. Wade.

“Today’s landmark decision by the U.S. Supreme Court was the right one because as a matter of constitutional interpretation, as the Court writes, ‘Roe was egregiously wrong from the start.’,” Schmidt said in a press release. He said that as a result of the ruling, the issue of abortion will be decided by state legislatures and the people who vote for their state lawmakers.

Now, the Court explains, ‘The permissibility of abortion, and the limitations upon it, are to be resolved like most important questions in our democracy: by citizens trying to persuade one another and then voting.’

 Schmidt said the people of Kansas will speak directly to this subject by voting in a referendum in less than six weeks. By voting on the Value Them Both amendment, Kansans will decide whether state judges may determine how abortion is regulated in Kansas or whether that is a responsibility for the elected branches of state government.

Coffeyville Fair and Rodeo is August 8-13, but today is the day to purchase tickets. In this “One Day Sale” you can get admission to all 5 nights of the Grandstand events, including the Livestock Shows, bull riding, two nights of PRCA Rodeo, and two nights of the Demolition Derby.

See everything for only $30 if you buy today during the “One Day Sale”. If you wait until tomorrow the price goes up to $40. General admission tickets will be $15 per day; everyone 4 years old and up will need a ticket. So it’s like buying 2 days and you get 3 for free if you purchase today. Tickets are available online at www.fairandrodeo.com or go to our website www.kggfradio.com and click on the link and save some money.

A member of the U.S. Senate Banking Committee questions the Federal Reserve chairman during a hearing on recent interest rate hikes and their impact on the Kansas agricultural community. Senator Jerry Moran says speaking on behalf of Kansans he's never seen the level of concern for the future as he sees today.

Moran says farming is a noble calling, and it has a lot to do with being able to feed people who are now desperate.  Chairman Jerome Powell says they need to get inflation back down to 2%. He says are using their tools to do that and the public should believe they will get inflation down again.

Saying “food should never be used as a political weapon,” Kansas Attorney General and Republican gubernatorial hopeful Derek Schmidt told KGGF News that he had called on the USDA to withdraw its threat to withhold school lunch and related nutrition funding from schools that do not comply with a Biden Administration directive to expand prohibitions against employment discrimination based on gender identity.

Schmidt joined 25 other attorneys in the demand that the Food and Nutrition Service withdraw its proposed directive.

Schmidt was a guest on the Bill Small Show Thursday morning.

Sedan FFA donates time to construct a metal trailer to be raffled off. The raffle will go towards the proposed Chautauqua County Veterans Memorial. Currently, Chautauqua County has no memorial for those who served. The proposed site will be on the courthouse lawn and will cost approximately $30,000.

Richard Hambleton with the Veterans Memorial Committee says they are about a third of the way towards their goal. They are currently raffling off a metal trailer with a wood floor. Tickets are $10 each or you can buy 6 for $50.

Contact Richard Hambleton at 620-216-0085 or Lana Blankinship at 620-216-0782 to purchase tickets, make a donation or for more information.

A former Labette County commissioner has passed away.

Former District Two Commissioner Fred Vail served as a commissioner for eight years from 2013 to 2021. Commission Chairman Lonie Addis says Commissioner Vail was one of the best commissioners he has ever served with.

Addis says Vail never let anything get in the way of his duties as a commissioner not even when he started getting sick during his second term during a pandemic. Addis says he hopes that everything Vail did for the county is always remembered. Graveside services will be this Saturday at 10:00am at Richland Cemetery.

Kansas Attorney General and GOP gubernatorial hopeful Derek Schmidt proposed a plan to eliminate state income taxes on retirement benefits and savings for Kansas residents.

Speaking on Bill Small's KGGF Morning Show Thursday, Schmidt said this would be a way to slow down the outward migration of Kansas residents who leave the state after retirement.

Schmidt cited a report saying that one in five Kansas respondents blame what he called the state's high tax burden on retirees as being a significant factor in taking up residence elsewhere after retirement.

Kansas Attorney General and GOP gubernatorial hopeful Derek Schmidt told KGGF News Thursday that his office had secured at least $6 million from an opioid manufacturer for what he called its role in contributing to the national opioid addiction crisis.

The money comes from Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals as part of that company's bankruptcy proceedings.

The settlement is to be paid out over the next eight years with the money going to fight addiction and substance abuse in Kansas.

Schmidt was a guest on the Bill Small morning show on KGGF June 23^rd.

A report by a Houston law firm looking into the conviction of  Oklahoma death row inmate Richard Glossip prompts a self-described death-penalty supporter to promise to fight to abolish the death penalty in Oklahoma. Representative Kevin McDugle said Wednesday he believes in the death penalty but will fight to abolish it in Oklahoma if Glossip is put to death.

An investigation, that was sought by a group of Oklahoma state lawmakers, led by McDugle, concluded that investigators found evidence that could have exonerated Glossip was destroyed and a detective in the case had a bias against Glossip. He was convicted of planning the murder of Barry Van Treese, the owner of the motel where Glossip worked.

McDugle says that the report by law firm Reed Smith of Houston proves that Glossip is innocent. Glossip has maintained his innocence for the 25 years he has been on death row.

Continuing our look at candidates in the Kansas Primary Election this August, we visited with Ron Bryce a Republican candidate for State Representative for District 11.  Bryce, who spent many years working as a doctor says he’s not a politician.

Bryce says he’s pro-small business, supports the second amendment and says he has a very personal reason for being pro-life.  As a doctor he once cared for an aborted baby that intially survived the abortion.

Bryce says he hopes people will get to know him as a person.
 

Bryce will face Joshua Tucker and John Lowrance in the Republican Primary on August 2^nd.  The winner of that primary will face Democrat Greg Wilkinson who’s unopposed in the primary, in the General Election on November 8^th.

A routine traffic stop leads to a drug arrest and an arrest on an outstanding warrant in Parsons.

Earlier this week, a Parsons Police Department officer conducted a traffic stop in the 100 block of North 10th street. There were three adults in the vehicle and the officer recognized one of them as 31-year-old Brandon Markise Kindrick, despite his efforts to conceal his identity. A deputy arrived to assist utilizing his K-9, Memphis and indicated that there were illegal drugs in the car.

The search of the vehicle revealed a backpack with drugs and a firearm in it. The backpack was in the same location as Kindrick, who was arrested on charges of four counts of possession of a controlled substance criminal Possession of a firearm by a felon, distribution of a controlled substance and a probation violation warrant.

The Independence Police Department announces a new campaign to help them keep everyone safe. Just as KU fans have the “6^th man” and the Chiefs have their “12^th man” the IPD are asking you to be their “Third Officer”.

Most IPD shifts have only two officers on duty. They are responsible to patrol hundreds of miles of roads, over 4300 addresses, and approximately 7500 cars while responding to a call on average about every 29 minutes. Needless to say, it’s a tough job and that’s why they need you to be the “Third Officer”.

Visit the IPD Facebook page for crime prevention tips, but the biggest help is that if you believe you are witnessing suspicious or criminal activity be a super-star “Third Officer” and call the police. It takes all of us working together to stop crime.

For the first time, an educational campaign is announced to inform on the dangers of fighting, fleeing, or otherwise refusing to comply with the lawful orders of police officers. The National Police Association campaign “Comply Now, Complain Later” public service announcement urges the public to assist in the reduction of officer use of force by complying with lawful orders.

According to the National Police Association, “the use of forces is always ugly. Nobody likes it, especially the police. Nobody knows how it will turn out. The message of the PSA is asking the public to help police by not escalating, not attacking, not fleeing, and not trying to disarm an officer. Whether it is getting asked a question, getting a citation, or getting arrested, don’t confront, don’t resist, and don’t flee.” If someone feels an officer has improperly treated him or her, the time to seek a legal resolution is after the encounter with the law enforcement officer has concluded.

Resisting arrest, fleeing, or attempting to disarm a police officer places both the police and the member of the public in danger. Comply now. Complain later. Keep everybody safe.

Independence Police Department reports a rash of preventable vehicle break-ins. IPD spent much of Monday investigating several car break-ins that occurred overnight and into the day. The investigation was aided by the fact that the alleged thieves were caught on video at several locations entering unlocked cars.
Based on evidence at the scenes all the vehicles are believed to have been unlocked. IPD have identified the suspects and they are applying for arrest warrants. No names are being released at this time as local law enforcement has a vehicle description and are actively seeking to arrest the suspects.

Police Chief Jerry Harrison reminds everyone that almost all the break-ins in Independence could be prevented if everyone would just lock their car.

A Topeka woman was arrested on an open warrant and for drug charges. 28-year-old Aalijah Lawton was detained for questioning after the Caney Police Department received a report of a vehicle driving recklessly and running other vehicles off the roadway north of Caney.

CPD determined that Lawton had an outstanding warrant out of Shawnee County for Aggravated Vehicular Battery and Leaving the Scene of an Accident. Lawton’s two-year-old child was in the back seat and was allegedly not properly restrained. Upon searching the vehicle CPD allegedly found Cocaine, Marijuana, and drug paraphernalia. Lawton was placed under arrest and the child was taken into custody until family members could pick the child up.

Lawton faces charges of possession of cocaine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, endangering a child, and transporting an open container.

The beach at Parsons Lake has been temporarily closed.  The beach has been closed while crews work to remove a hazard recently discovered.  Over time, erosion has exposed an old wire screen that had been placed in clay underneath the sand when the lake and beach were originally constructed to help keep the beach’s sand in place.  That screen has been exposed creating a potential hazard.  Crews are working to remove the screen and put in a new clay base and sand.  A spokesperson for the city says the work is a top priority for the city since the beach and lake are frequently used during the hot summer months.

Certain child care staff and workers will receive an Appreciation Bonus this summer.  Governor Laura Kelly announced today that her administration is giving $53 million to eligible childcare staff.

The funds will be made available through Child Care Workforce Appreciation Bonuses, which are paid for by federal Child Care Development Funds. Bonuses will be distributed directly to approximately 22,650 early childhood care staff members across Kansas. Home-based and relative providers may also qualify for the bonus program. Individual bonus amounts will range from $750 to $2500 per person.

All eligible childcare workers will receive a letter in July outlining the process to accept the bonus and will have until Nov. 18^th to act. Go to www.ks.childcareaware.org to learn more about the program.

The reconstruction work on Main Street in Independence is nearing completion.  Public Works and Utilities Director, John Garris says work should be completed next month.  Garris says workers did a good job and the work should be complete by mid July.

Work on the $1.7 million dollar project began in February and is a streetscape project that includes new sidewalks and buried infrastructure. 

Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued a boil water advisory on June 20^th for the city of Thayer and the Coal Hollow Water Company public water supply system. It will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are corrected. The City of Thayer reports that KDHE says there was a loss of pressure in the distribution systems caused by a water line break.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice: if your tap water appears cloudy or off-color, flush the lines by letting it run until it clears. Boil water for at least one minute prior to drinking or food prep. Toss out ice cubes, including the ice in your automatic icemaker. Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water, which includes 1 teaspoon of bleach per gallon of water. While you do not need to boil water used for bathing you do need to supervise children while bathing so that water is not ingested. KDHE will inform the community when it is safe to go back to normal tap water handling procedures.

An alleged burglar arrested last Thursday at about 9 pm in Independence. Independence Police Department investigated a call of trespassing in the 600 block of N. 16^th Street. IPD detained and questioned 45-year-old Isaac Clark. Clark was placed under arrest and charged with Burglary, Possession of a Narcotic, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Independence man arrested for domestic battery. Last Friday, at about 2 am, officers from the Independence Police department investigated a call in the 2000 block of W. Main Street. 63-year-old Otis Dunn was arrested for Domestic Battery. No other information is available at this time.

Bill is signed into law allowing Sporting events, casinos, restaurants, nonprofit fraternal or veterans organizations and other entertainment venues to bet on sports. Governor Laura Kelly signed Senate Bill 84, which legalizes the act of sports wagering in Kansas.

The Bill also allows the negotiation of new or existing gaming compacts regarding sports wagering by preserving tribal sovereignty for the Native American Casinos. Proponents of the bill say it will keep Kansans’ money in Kansas.

The deadline is drawing near to apply for low-income emergency utility assistance from the Cherokee nation.  The program aims to assist eligible Cherokee Nation citizens affected by the pandemic with utility payments.  Principal Chief of the Cherokee Nation, Chuck Hoskins, Jr. says the assistance can be a big help during an inflationary period and includes more than just citizens living within the Cherokee Nation.

The deadline to apply is June 30^th.  For information on how to apply you can visit the Cherokee Nation’s website

The Montgomery County commissioners met this morning and heard from several department heads in regards to their budget and salaries for 2023. They met with Carolyn Muller with the County Health Department about moving a vehicle from her department to the appraiser's office. No action was taken. Jim Wright with Public Works reported that they received a bid for paint striping and recommended the low bidder Straight Line Striping of Grand Island, NE and the Board voted unanimously in favor of giving Straight Line the bid. The Board also moved to change the handbook to reflect the changes to the amount paid for mileage to county employees.

One of Governor Laura Kelly’s stops this past week in SE Kansas was the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Kansas Department of Commerce’s new Independence office to promote rural Kansas economic development.

The office of Rural Prosperity focuses on efforts to bring down bureaucratic barriers to prosperity and facilitate rural Kansas economic development. One of its main goals is to make sure rural Kansas has a voice and seat at the table in legislation, from development to implementation. They plan to work with rural stakeholders on literally hundreds of key priorities that are always changing, adapting, and growing to assist rural Kansans to take on the particular issues facing their community.

A Montgomery Co. woman to face charges of attempted first-degree murder and first-degree murder.  The Kansas Attorney General’s Office filed charges against 31-year-old Megan Dawn McCutcheon. The charges stem from a drive-by shooting that killed 19-year-old Kimberly D. Meeks of Coffeyville near the intersection of Laurel and W. Main streets in Independence on Dec.14^th, 2019.

The Montgomery County Chronicle reports that the premeditated attempted first–degree murder targeted Benjamin R. Whitaker in the drive-by. McCutcheon’s brother, Benjamin J. Mason was sentenced to life in prison for his direct involvement in the shooting of Meeks. In Mason’s hearings officers testified that Mason intended target was Whitaker who was walking with Meeks.

Although her brother Mason fired the gun that killed Meeks, McCutcheon was allegedly driving the vehicle. She did not fire a gun but, under Kansas law, she will be charged with premeditated first-degree murder and premeditated attempted first-degree murder by aiding and abetting Mason in that deadly shooting.

Dignitaries came out in force this morning for the ceremonial groundbreaking of the Bartlett Savage Company new soybean crushing facility in Montgomery County.  Governor Laura Kelly, U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, State Representative Jim Kelly, the Director of the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Rural Prosperity Trish Purdon and Bill Webster with Bartlett Savage Company all spoke to the crowd gathered for the event.

The new $390 million project is expected to bring 50 permanent jobs to the area as well as construction jobs building the facility and other transportation improvements to the area.

Chanute man arrested during a traffic stop on Wednesday, June 15^th. 41-year-old Joshua Clifford was stopped for a defective tail lamp and after a search, he was also charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and no proof of insurance.
Reports were forwarded to Neosho County Attorney’s office for consideration.

Three candidates will face each other in the Republican Primary Election for the District 11 State Representative seat being vacated by Jim Kelly.  KGGF is speaking with those candidates and have caught up with Joshua Tucker of Independence.  Tucker describes himself as a Constitutionalist.

Tucker said one of he wants to bring about less government regulation.

He adds that we wants to go to Topeka to help small business.

Tucker will face Ron Bryce of Coffeyville and John Lowrance of Independence in the Republican Primary on August 2^nd.  The winner of the primary will meet Democrat Greg Wilkinson in the General Election on November 8^th.  

A Bill overwhelmingly passes US Senate yesterday that will expand health care eligibility to Veterans who were exposed to harmful toxins during their service. Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our PACT Act of 2022 passes Senate with a vote of 84-14. It will now go to the US House of Representatives and the President’s desk for signature.

The historic legislation, co-sponsored by Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas, will deliver to all generations of toxic-exposed veterans their earned health care and benefits under the Department of Veterans Affairs for the first time in the nation’s history.

A high number of cattle have died in Southwestern Kansas. There has been no confirmation on the exact number of cattle that died. Kansas Livestock Association Vice President of Communications Scarlett Hagins says this is the result of the region seeing a significant increase in temperatures in a short amount of time.

Hagins says this is an unusual situation for that area and is not something they would normally see. Hagins says cattle producers' number one goal is to make sure their cattle stay healthy and are well taken care of so they can provide a healthy, safe and wholesome product to the consumer.

An Independence man is placed under arrest for multiple charges.  The Independence Police Department responded to a hit and run call in the 200 block of North Park Ave.

After an investigation, 36-year-old Troy White was detained and charged with failure to report damage, interference with a law enforcement officer, destroy, conceal or alter evidence, no liability insurance, driving while suspended, failure to yield and speeding.

The Coffeyville Public Library is set to participate in the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Library Program.

You can go to the Coffeyville Public 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 the windshield and there is no need to return the permit, just dispose of it properly.

For more information and to view a complete list of the participating Kansas libraries, you can visit ksoutdoor.com/State-Parks/Library-Program.

Legislation has been introduced to redirect unused funds from the American Rescue Plan. HR 7942 the Securing Our Students Act, cosponsored by Representative Jake LaTurner, if passed would help identify and implement evidence-based school safety measures. Of the $122 billion appropriated to America’s K-12 schools under last year’s $1.9 trillion American Rescue Plan, 93% remains unspent.

Specifically, the bill would clarify that school districts and non-public schools can immediately amend their plans under the American Rescue Plan and use those funds to address their school safety needs. It would include broad categories of uses, a requirement for the funds to be used to meet the specific need of the school that the measures implemented are evidence-based and have an accounting of the funds used. The legislation would require states to act expeditiously in approving any amendments to the plans so that schools may begin to make needed improvements without delay.

Kansas 11^th District State Representative, Jim Kelly has endorsed Ron Bryce of Coffeyville for his seat.  Kelly, who announced he would not be seeking re-election earlier this year publicly endorsed Bryce at a political event last night.  

Speaking to a large crowd at the Coffeyville Country Club, Kelly says he believes Bryce is the strongest candidate to be able to get things done for southeast Kansas in Topeka.  Bryce thanked Kelly for his endorsement and says he is anti-abortion, pro 2^nd Amendment and an advocate for business and housing.

Bryce faces two other Republican candidates in the August 2^nd Primary, Josh Tucker and John Lowrance, both of Independence.

The Caney Police Department warns citizens to make sure their cars are locked at night.  Earlier this morning, Caney PD received a call about a person dressed in all black clothing entering vehicles in the 500 block of South Spring Street, but officers were unable to locate the suspect.

Caney PD is encouraging citizens to make sure their vehicles are locked when parked at their residence or while visiting someone. They also warn to not leave valuables or weapons in vehicles. If anyone sees what they believe to be suspicious activity, call the department at (620)879-2141.

A Caney woman and a Coffeyville man are arrested on multiple drug charges.

At around midnight, Caney Police Officers and EMS responded to the Garden Walk Apartments for a possible drug overdose. A male subject inside the apartment was transported to a Bartlesville Hospital for treatment. While at the scene officers observed drugs and paraphernalia in plain view. After obtaining a search warrant officers seized methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia from the apartment. Caney PD submitted the case to the Montgomery County Attorney for review and filing of charges.

45-year-old Brandy Verge was arrested on that warrant for possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Also arrested was 48-year-old Jarod Johnston, who is also charged with possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

A Parsons man is arrested for criminal damage after officers respond to a domestic disturbance. Early this morning, Parsons Police Officers were dispatched to a report of a domestic fight taking place in the 1700 block of Stevens. The caller told dispatch that a white male with no shirt on was yelling at a female and then took off towards 16th street. Multiple vehicles in the area had their mirrors broken off and witnesses were pointing to the male suspect.

Officers located and detained the suspect, identified as 22-year-old Travis Caine Kellogg, who confessed to the damage. Kellogg damaged nine vehicles, a mailbox and a large flowerpot and broke two windows at the Parsonian Apartments. Reported cost for the windows was close to $6,000. Parsons PD is still waiting for the estimated cost of the nine vehicles that were damaged as well as the mailbox and flowerpot. Kellogg is facing possible charges of 11 counts of felony criminal damage

The City of Independence has announced there will be delays in trash service this week.

City Engineer John Garris says delays are due to a highly unusual circumstance. Garris says he hopes to be back to near normal by next week.

The sanitation department says a new trash truck ordered in January is expected to arrive in August, but in the meantime, you may use your own for extra capacity in this special circumstance, just make sure all your trash is bagged. If you have other questions you can call 620-332-2500 or view the frequently asked questions page on their website, which you can find the link to in the printed version of this story on our website at www.kggfradion.com

A Ribbon Cutting ceremony was held for the Winfield Cemetery’s addition of 1280 new niches to serve as a final resting place for veterans. Winfield’s cemetery and its’ columbarium wall are part of the State Veterans Cemeteries and they provide internment for our veterans, spouses, and dependents. The expansion of the wall will add to the 800 niches already in place at Winfield Cemetery.

Administered through the Kansas Commission on Veterans Affairs Office and locations include not only Winfield, but Fort Dodge, WaKeeney, and Fort Riley. The project will allow Winfield Cemetery to continue to be able to offer the option for veteran internments that will last a decade or more.

Governor Laura Kelly cut the ribbon for the ceremony, praised the project, and said that the sanctuary was befitting of the veteran's service and sacrifice.

The next phase of street improvements has been approved by Coffeyville City Commissioners. 

During last night’s meeting of the City Commission, a contract was awarded to RIC Construction of Coffeyville, the low bidder of three for the 2022 Intersection and Drainage Improvement Project.  Public Works Director, Jim Bradshaw reported to Commissioners what intersections are included in the project.  

The approved bid from RIC was slightly more than $328.000.  In other business, the Commission also appointed Katrina Altenreid to a 4-year term on the Library Board.

A Caney man has been arrested for battery and child endangerment.

On November 2, 2021, Caney Police Officers responded to a stabbing incident in the 600 block of East 5^th Street. Upon arrival, officers found 31-year-old Joshua Trotnic on the porch suffering from a stab wound. Trotnic was transported to a hospital for treatment of his wound. Further investigation revealed Trotnic went to the residence after he and another individual had a disagreement over a drug deal. Upon arrival in the alley behind the home, Trotnic encountered the victim and engaged in a verbal exchange which resulted in a physical altercation. There were two juveniles that witnessed the incident but were not directly involved.

Earlier this month a warrant was issued by the District Court charging Trotnic with Battery and two counts of child endangerment. 

The Montgomery County Juvenile Division Attorney is arrested for alleged DUI and resisting officers.

Last night at around 10:30pm, Montgomery County Deputies were dispatched to Highway 160 and 75 west of Independence for a report of a vehicle in the ditch. Dispatch received reports of a female stumbling out of the vehicle. Upon arrival, deputies identified the driver as 65-year-old Daylene Walls, attorney for the county, and her friend 75-year-old Steven Simmons.

According to deputies, Walls appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. Walls would not comply with deputies, refused to place her hands behind her back, slapped a deputy and repeatedly told them she was not going to jail. Simmons argued with deputies and tried to prevent them from taking Walls into custody. Simmons was booked for interference with a law enforcement officer. A search warrant was obtained for Walls's blood and she was booked for driving under the influence, battery on a law enforcement officer and interference with a law enforcement officer.

A Kansas Congressman joins a letter to President Joe Biden to persuade Administration to help US Ag Producers. Representative Jake LaTurner from Kansas joined others in outlining proposed administrative actions, which would provide real, near-term solutions to the crisis facing US farmers and ranchers.

Members spelled out actions that could address agriculture input costs, including fuel, seed, feed, and fertilizer costs. Ensure the Environmental Protection Agency refocuses on sound science and puts an end to onerous climate rules.

The letter went on to say that increasing America’s agriculture sector is vital to alleviating the global food crisis, and they urged the Administration to take action to help them in that role.

Riverside Park and Zoo is hosting a fundraiser to help in the improvement of the park and zoo Saturday, June 25.

Festivities will start with a cornhole tournament at 11 am. There will be a car show, beer garden, and free train and carousel rides. If you have any questions call 620-331-9229

Newly increased IRS gas mileage allowances are being discussed by Montgomery County Commissioners. At Monday’s meeting commissioners discussed how the County would compensate in light of the increase. No action was taken. However, the discussion was tabled until next week.

Commissioners also discussed a Tundra pick-up truck that was purchased with COVID-19 funds by the Health Department and moving it to the Appraisers Office to replace a vehicle used mainly on gravel roads that is in need of repair or replacement. Research needs to be done to see if this is possible and what would need to be done to make that happen. Therefore no action was taken but it was decided it would be brought back up in next week’s meeting with respect to the findings of the research.

A Kansas program helps keep pre-K thru 21-year-old students engaged in education throughout the summer months. Sunflower Summer is a program promoting family engagement and student learning that is funded by federal COVID-19 money.

While the program is geared to help students and families with a low-cost way to visit local attractions and events, it also has a boosted travel and tourism within the state.

To participate in Sunflower Summer, adults can visit www.sunflowersummer.org to find more information and instructions for downloading or updating the phone app. An adult will need to register their family members and include their county and school district in the app.

Each student, and up to two accompanying adults may access a ticket voucher within the app for each of the 90 attractions. There are also several new bonus events this year, like the Sunflower Summer Family Campout at Milford State Park on Thursday, July 7^th. It’s an overnight camp loaded with family activities like fishing, archery, canoeing, campfires, s’mores, and more.

Visit our website kggfradio.com and click on the link to get more info about the program as well as information on how to get the app for your phone.

A traffic violation led to the arrest of a Nowata, Oklahoma couple on Tuesday.

On the morning of June 14th, an officer with the Caney Police Department stopped a vehicle for an unspecified traffic violation. Upon speaking with the driver, 32-year-old Kathi Bever of Nowata, the officer noticed the smell of marijuana emitting from the vehicle.

Bever's passenger, 30-year-old Dylan Link of Nowata, was asked to step out of the vehicle. During a search, officers found marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and methamphetamines. Both Link and Bever were arrested and taken to the Montgomery County Jail. The case has been forwarded to the Montgomery County Attorney for charging review.

A Coffeyville man is arrested in Caney on outstanding warrants.

Earlier today Caney Police Officers made a traffic stop at Taylor and Hooker Street. During the stop, a passenger in the vehicle was recognized by one of the officers as someone who was wanted. The passenger was identified as 21-year-old Johnnie Woods.

He was wanted on an outstanding Montgomery County Warrant for failure to appear on a criminal threat charge as well as a failure to appear for the City of Caney.

A potential moratorium on wind energy development could be put in place in Labette County.

Commissioner Terry Weidert asked County Counselor Brian Johnson to write up a moratorium for six to seven months. The reason behind the moratorium is that either new commissioners are elected or current commissioners are re-elected and then the new group of commissioners can decide what their next step would be. This decision comes after Lindsey Wilson, a district two constitute, presented a letter from a lawyer on possible ways to keep wind turbines out of the county.

Currently, there are seven candidates for the district one seat with current Commissioner Lonie Addis retiring. In district two Commissioner Weidert is running and there is currently one person who will be running against him.

An Independence man has been arrested after a hit and run and eluding police for over a week.

The Independence Police Department arrested 39-year-old Brian Medsker for suspicion of attempted murder and other related charges. The charges stem from an investigation in which Medsker is alleged to have intentionally struck a cyclist. At around 8:38pm Saturday IPD received a call on the location of Medsker and officers were able to locate him near 10^th and Willow. Medsker led officers on a pursuit with IPD deploying their canine team, but Medsker was taken into custody before the dog reached him.

Medsker is being held on a $750,000 bond. IPD has opened an investigation to determine who helped Medsker elude police for nine days. Two were arrested for felony interference June 7^th. Search warrants are being sought to gather evidence and more arrests are expected.

An Independence man is arrested on numerous charges.  Late last week, Independence Police Officers were dispatched to the 400 block of W. Railroad in reference to a domestic disturbance.

29-year-old Christopher Cooper was taken into custody and transported to the Montgomery County Department of Corrections on charges of aggravated kidnapping, criminal threat, domestic battery, criminal damage, possession of a hallucinogenic and drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement, robbery and disorderly conduct.

A southern Kansas man was sentenced to more than 20 years in prison after pleading no contest to second-degree murder and child abuse for the killing of his 4-month-old daughter.

36-year-old Andrew Franklin, of Haysville, was sentenced to 250 months in prison for the death of 4-month-old Brexley Grace Franklin. Associated Press reports the child died on Sept. 13, 2018, five days after she was admitted to a hospital suffering from a skull fracture, retinal hemorrhages, and bruises to her jaw.

Franklin has been behind bars since his arrest in January 2019 and was initially charged with first-degree murder and two counts of child abuse, related to the baby’s death.

The Chautauqua County Commission discussed two topics related to financial concerns at Monday's regular meeting.

Greg Hennen from Four County Mental Health gave the commission his 2023 budget presentation, requesting $40,000 for next year. In Chautauqua County, 257 citizens sought out services in 2021, down slightly from the previous year. Hennen anticipates that number to go up in 2022 and beyond due to an increased physical presence in the county.

In other business, Richard Hambleton provided a maintainance update and an updated bid for work relating to the courthouse elevator. The commission also met with Linda McNown of the Health Department, albeit behind closed doors in executive session.

A passenger van has been stolen from the USD 404 school district.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is investigating the theft of a 2020 Ford Transit XL. The vehicle was stolen from the Riverton School Campus around 5:00am Saturday. The van has Kansas License Plate A8932 on it at the time of theft. The van has Riverton USD 404 on each side of it and a white #7 decal on the rear window. The vehicle is equipped with a tow hitch and receiver. The keys were stolen along with the vehicle.

Anyone with information on this crime, or the location of the vehicle, is asked to contact their local law enforcement agency. Information can also be provided by calling the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office at (620)429-3993, 620-848-3000, or by texting 'tip Cherokee' to 888777.

An Independence man who was wanted for attempted murder after a hit and run is in custody.
 

Independence Police Chief Jerry Harrison says 39-year-old Brian Medsker is in custody after a brief pursuit. The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and Kansas Highway Patrol assisted in his capture.
 

Medsker was involved in the alleged incident on June 2nd when according to witnesses he intentionally hit a man on a bicycle. Medsker fled the scene and law enforcement had been attempting to locate him. More information to come on Monday. 

Over the last few weeks, Labette County has seen an increase in lab-confirmed COVID-19 cases. There are currently 51 positive cases in the county, counting only individuals who have received a COVID-19 test from a facility that reports them to the health department. These numbers do not include positive tests for individuals who perform at-home COVID-19 tests.

The Labette County Health Department has some recommended actions based on the current level of positive cases. Stay up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, if you have symptoms stay home, social distance and get tested also wear a mask if you have symptoms, a positive test or have been exposed to someone with COVID-19.

The Kansas Department of Transportation’s message for this summer is to slow down. In 2020, Kansas recorded almost 5000 vehicle crashes due to drivers going too fast for the existing conditions. Nearly 80 people lost their lives in those crashes.

Young drivers are the most likely to have a speed-related crash. Forty-five percent of all 2020 speed-related crashes in Kansas were drivers between the ages of 15 and 29.

KDOT and Kansas law enforcement agencies are advancing a “Drive to Zero” public awareness campaign to shed light on the far-ranging consequences of driving too fast for the conditions. The Campaign will encourage drivers to reduce speed when approaching an exit/entrance ramp, rounding a curve, diving in work zones, or pulling a trailer and to be mindful of speed in inclement weather and at night.

Their goal is to save lives and remind all drivers to watch for and obey speed limit signs on our highways, in residential neighborhoods, and on secondary roads. Kansas’ “Drive to Zero” campaign is funded by federal traffic safety funds administered by KDOT.

Internal Revenue Service has made changes to certain deductions that will impact businesses that pay their employees mileage. For the final 6 months of 2022, the standard mileage rate for business travel will be 62.5 cents per mile, that’s up 4 cents from the rate effective at the start of the year.

The IRS said they are adjusting the standard mileage rates to better reflect the recent increase in fuel prices. They recognized there is a number of unusual factors that have come into play involving fuel costs. The IRS also changed the rate for deductible medical or moving expenses for active-duty members of the military from 18 cents per mile to 22 cents per mile for the remainder of 2022.

Midyear increases in the optional mileage rates are rare, the last time the IRS made such an increase was in 2011.

Kansas State Senator Virgil Peck touted the successful passage of legislation during the recently completed session in Topeka as being key to bringing increased employment opportunities and economic benefits to the area.

Peck said revitalized housing in the area would go a long way toward bringing new jobs to the area. The entire interview can be heard here.

Two Separate Arrests Were Made Recently In Independence For Domestic Battery.

On June 7^th, at approximately 10:46 pm. Officers were dispatched to 600 block of N. Hickory in regards to domestic abuse. After an investigation Independence Police arrested 41-year-old James Towers of Bartlesville, Ok for domestic battery.

Then on June 8^th, at 11 pm, officers responded to a call of a disturbance in the 300 block of S. 9^th Street. After an investigation, 29-year-old Laura Cranor was placed under arrest and processed on a charge of domestic battery.

Governor Laura Kelly has called on the US Senate and President Joe Biden to pass a bill to help the more than 3.5 million veterans who were exposed to toxins during their military service.

The comprehensive bill is the result of a bipartisan agreement between US Senator Jerry Moran and Senator Jon Tester of Montana. The bill has passed the House of Representatives and the Senate is expected to vote in the next few days.

The bill was named “Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson Honoring Our Pact Act of 2022.” Sergeant First Class Robinson died in 2020 from toxic exposure during his deployment with the Ohio National Guard to Kosovo and Iraq. Governor Kelly said and I quote “For far too long, our veterans have been left without the benefits and services they deserve because Congress has failed to act.”

A United States Senator and Congressman introduce the Safe Schools Act. Senator Roger Marshall says this legislation will allow COVID relief dollars to be used by the school systems to make schools more secure.

Senator Marshall says the next question is what can schools do to be more secure and what does that look like.  Senator Marshall says there may be some things that are disagreed on as he believes in the second amendment, but one thing everyone can agree on is that schools need to be more secure.

Representative Ron Estes has sponsored a bill to replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. If passed, the law would ensure the replenishment by requiring the Secretary of Energy to make mandatory monthly payments once oil drops below $90 a barrel for an average of 100 days straight.

The purchases will be required until the SPR is at its maximum capacity. The purchases will equal 3,600,000 barrels per month which is 2% of the 180 million barrels released by President Joe Biden.

A report finds that Coffeyville on average is a cheaper place to live. doxoINSIGHTS collects infographic information on average monthly payments for the 10 most common household bill categories, then ranks them according to state and city.

Their recently released report, the "State by State Bill Pay Market Report" shows Coffeyville as the 23rd most expensive city in Kansas for household bills. According to the report, Coffeyville pays $1608 per month on the ten most common bills. Only El Dorado and Garden City in Kansas pay less.

Independence meanwhile, ranks as the 17th most expensive city in Kansas with residents paying on average$1696 in bills per month. But that is still below the state average of $1720 per month.

The search continues for a suspect wanted on charges of attempted murder after a hit-and-run in Independence last week. 39-year-old Brian Medsker remains at large after allegedly hitting a cyclist causing serious injuries. Witnesses told Independence Police that the incident had the appearance of being an intentional act and not an accident. Earlier this week, IPD got a report that Medsker was to be found at a house on the 500 block of West Myrtle, but Medsker was apparently able to elude capture, leaving a gun and other evidence at that scene. Independence Police Chief Jerry Harrison told KGGF that the investigation continues.

Anyone with information concerning Medsker's whereabouts should contact the Independence Police Department.

Another round of storms is possible tonight before a period of drier, summer like-weather returns.  The National Weather Service out of Wichita warns that some of tonight’s storms could reach severe levels. 

Large hail, 70 mph plus winds and heavy rain with localized flash flooding are all possible tonight.  Storms are expected to develop mainly after 8 tonight and continue in waves overnight.

The Independence Fire Department responded to a structure fire early Wednesday morning.

At 3:45 am, IFD arrived at 217 S Earl Avenue. When IFD arrived the structure was fully engulfed. The IFD said they had to use a defensive attack with several hand lines as well as utilizing Tower 1 aerial master stream to bring the fire under control. Cherryvale Fire and Dearing Fire assisted IFD and Independence Rural Fire Departments.

By 8 am the fire was extinguished. The structure appears to be a total loss and the investigation into the cause of the fire is ongoing. No injuries were reported.

The 7^th Annual KGGF KUSN KQQF Auction is coming up this Saturday at the Coffeyville Rec Center at Walter Johnson Park. KGGF's Tina Romine says doors will open up at 8:00am for you to look at the items.

Bidding will start at 9:00am with Auctioneer John Nichols. Registering for numbers is free and will enter you in a chance to win door prizes. Bidding will stop at 80% of the market value. More information can be found here.

Federal waivers for food-insecure kids are set to expire this month. Kansas Governor Laura Kelly sent a letter to Congressional leadership asking to extend Child Nutrition Waivers thru the summer months.

Kelly wrote that without the extension, more Kansas kids are going to go hungry, hurting their ability to succeed both in and out the classroom. The waivers guaranteed access to meals at no additional cost, regardless of their family’s ability to pay. The nonprofit Feeding America says more than 120,000 Kansas kids are food insecure, yet 40% do not traditionally qualify for federal school nutrition programs.

The governor’s letter further stressed the fact that some school districts will no longer be able to serve summer meals to students, which may be poor timing as the hunger crisis gets worse over the summer months when children are not in school.

Independence Community College has received five more years of funding for its Upward Bound Program.

A U.S. Department of Education grant has been extended and will be used to fund programming that benefits disadvantaged area students. UB helps students by focusing on preliminary college skills, ACT preparation, time management, study skills and financial literacy. The students live on campus during the summer, attend classes and engage in team-building exercises and activities, which will allow students to overcome barriers to higher education.

The grant will fund UB through 2027 with an annual award of just over $336,000.

A free musical performance will be coming soon to the Spencer Rounds Theater in Coffeyville.

The Coffeyville Municipal Band along with the 35^th Infantry Band will be performing on July 1^st at 7:00pm in the Spencer Rounds Theater at Coffeyville Community College. This will kick off part of the Coffeyville Municipal Band’s Summer Concert Season and is in partnership with Coffeyville Coffee Company, Coffeyville Community College, the Historic Midland, the Coffeyville Area Community Foundation, the Coffeyville Chamber, and KGGF.

A Parsons man has been arrested after leading officers in multiple counties through a high-speed chase.

Early yesterday afternoon, a Chautauqua County Sheriff's deputy clocked a motorcycle going eastbound on U.S. 166 at 107 mph. When the deputy attempted to stop the motorcycle, the driver, 25-year-old Charles Harris of Parsons, failed to stop and continued east into Montgomery County.  Harris then proceeded toward Caney, where officers from the Caney Police Department responded to assist Chautauqua County. Two patrol cars were able to stop Harris at the U.S 166 and U.S 75 Junction, just prior to him entering the city of Caney.

Harris was taken into custody without incident. He was taken to Chautauqua County, where will he face charges of 107 in a 65-mph zone, and attempting to elude an officer.

A Coffeyville woman has died after being involved in a head-on collision Tuesday afternoon in Nowata County.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says 20-year-old Kaelyn Kendrick was driving southbound on U.S. 169 when her car crossed the center line and struck another vehicle head-on.

Kendrick was pronounced dead at the scene. The other driver was not injured.

Labette County Commission Chairperson Lonie R. Addis has called a special meeting for tomorrow June 8^th, 2022 at 9 A.M.in the commission room at the courthouse in Oswego.

Action may be taken on the Juvenile Corrections Advisory Board (JCAB) allocation from Kansas Corrections. 

Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power is assuring residents that they will be able to meet all electricity needs for the upcoming summer season.

The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration has previously released a report suggesting that temperatures could exceed what is typical of June, July, and August. Those temperatures will create a higher-than-normal demand for electricity. The South West Power Pool anticipates that the demand will peak at 51.1 gigawatts and are prepared to serve at least 55.5 gigawatts.

Coffeyville's Director of Electric Sevices, Mike Shook, said that Coffeyville's nearly 90 megawatts of generating capacity, along with the generation fleet of the Grand River Dam Authority, is counted within the SPP's fleet of available generating resources.

The Southwest Power Pool oversees the bulk electric grid in the central United States on behalf of companies in 14 states.

The Independence Police Department is requesting the public's help in locating a suspect wanted on a charge of attempted murder.

According to an update provided by the Montgomery County Chronicle late Tuesday morning, law enforcement officers were unable to apprehend 39-year-old Brian Medsker in the 500 block of West Myrtle. Police were previously told that he was located in a house in that area, but fled the scene prior to their arrival.

A firearm and other evidence related to Medsker's escape were recovered from the scene. Anyone with information on the location of Medsker is encouraged to contact the IPD. Further updates will be provided as they become available.

Heavy rains across the area are expected to produce some minor flooding across parts of the area.  3 – 4 inches of rain has been reported in the area and more rain and thunderstorms are expected again tomorrow morning.  The National Weather Service says minor flooding is expected to continue, especially along the Neosho River near Parsons and Oswego.  The Verdigris River near Coffeyville and Independence is expected to stay below flood stage.     

Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power is assuring residents that they will be able to meet all electricity needs for the upcoming summer season.

The National Oceanic Atmospheric Administration has previously released a report suggesting that temperatures could exceed what is typical of June, July, and August. Those temperatures will create a higher-than-normal demand for electricity. The Southwest Power Pool anticipates that the demand will peak at 51.1 gigawatts and are prepared to serve at least 55.5 gigawatts.

Coffeyville’s Director of Electric Services, Mike Shook, said that Coffeyville’s nearly 90 megawatts of generating capacity, along with the generation fleet of the Grand River Dam Authority, is counted within the SPP’s fleet of available generating resources.

The Southwest Power Pool oversees the bulk electric grid in the central United States on behalf of companies in 14 states.

A recent Cherryvale investment project has helped the state of Kansas receive an award focused on economic development.

The Golden Shovel Award, given out by Area Development magazine, is presented to states that attract high-value investment projects that create a significant number of new jobs in their communities. Kansas is only one of five states to receive the award for 2022.

States are required to submit samples of successful economic projects. Cherryvale’s Bartlett Grain Company was chosen as one of those projects, with 50 new jobs added to the community. This is the 2^nd consecutive year for Kansas to receive the award. Other projects alongside Cherryvale’s include efforts in Dodge City, Tonganoxie, and Phillipsburg.

David Alan Jackson, age 61, of Coffeyville, was formally charged with 1st-degree murder for the shooting death of Melvin Simpson Jr. on May 14th. the Kansas Attorneys General's office will prosecute the case. Jackson is still in Montgomery County Jail under a one million dollar bond. Jackson will return to court on June 9the for a review hearing to consider a court-appointed attorney.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                   

At the Montgomery County Commissioner's Meeting today Rick Whitson and the Commissioners presented Jordan Smith, from the Independence Rural Department, with the Rural Fire Service Award. On April 8th, at about midnight, Jordan and IRFD responded to a structure fire on southern 14th street in Independence. While searching the structure he came across an unconscious female. Firemen Smith carried her out of the house to safety. Chief Whitson and the Commissioners also gave accommodation to two retiring firemen. Dave Bishop gave 42 years of dedicated service to the Dearing Fire Department and Jim Smith protected those in Sycamore and the surrounding area for an amazing 53 years. Congratulations gentlemen, and we sincerely thank you for your service.

Last Thursday, Trevin Hayes-Smith of Coffeyville pleaded no contest to charges of involuntary manslaughter and aggravated endangerment of a child in the alleged accidental shooting death of Nasha Gregory, age 15, of Chanute while at a Coffeyville home on March 13th.

Cole Hoffmeister, who serves as the defendant’s court-appointed attorney, said his client’s careless decisions in the Coffeyville home resulted in the death of Gregory. According to the statement of facts read at Thursday’s hearing, Gregory and several other teens were at a party and Hayes-Smith was displaying a gun and twirled the gun on his finger. While twirling the gun it accidentally discharged and the bullet struck Gregory in the neck where she was sitting in an adjacent room. Hoffmeister told Judge Jeffery Geitter that Hayes-Smith never intentionally aimed the gun at Gregory.

Because Hayes-Smith complied fully with the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office in the investigation of the fatal shooting, his prison sentences, to be issued from his two no-contest pleas, will run concurrently. Hayes-Smith's sentencing is set for July 1.

Overnight storms caused power outages across the area, mostly south of the state line in northeast Oklahoma.  Winds of up to 60 mph in Oklahoma left about 4,000 residences without power overnight while just a handful of outages were reported by Evergy in southeast Kansas in Montgomery County and the Fort Scott area where winds were not as strong.  Crews are till working this morning to restore power to some of the affected customers.

Additional thunderstorms are expected again overnight tonight and the early morning hours tomorrow.

A Nowata County man is arrested after numerous amounts of drugs, guns and money are found on his property. 59-year-old Michael Geeding is charged with aggravated trafficking of illegal drugs and possession of firearms after a former conviction of two or more felonies. Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics Agents, with the assistance of the Bartlesville Police Department and Washington County Sheriff's Office joint Special Operations Team, executed a search warrant at a residence in western Nowata County. The residence was located on an over 400-acre ranch.

During their search, agents located several bricks of methamphetamine hidden in hay, multiple firearms hidden throughout the residence, outbuildings, and inside vehicles parked on the property and several vacuum-sealed bundles of money, which were buried on the property. In total Agents seized approximately 10.5 pounds of methamphetamine, 96 firearms, and $83,640.  

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center would like to announce that the Best Family has increased the number of scholarships they awarded this year to four. the Best Family recognized the healthcare worker shortage facing our rural communities and wanted to do more to encourage more folks to enter the healthcare field. The Best family's intent is to provide financial assistance to area students who have been accepted into an accredited health-related program. Lisa Kuehn, Sr. Director of Strategic Development and Philanthropy said, "The CRMC Foundation is honored to partner with the Best Famil on their mission to promote healthcare education in memory of their father and to honor their mother." The 2022 recipients are Sara Wellington, Beverly Mccoach, Tieraney Thornburg, and Emily Wilson. Congratulations and good luck in your pursuits young ladies.

Kansas Wildlife and Parks have designated this Saturday and Sunday as Free Fishing Days. If you are 16-74 you must have a Kansas fishing license to fish, except on Free Fishing Days. You must still follow all other regulations such as slot limits, the amount of fish you can keep, and equipment requirements. To find a good spot near you click on "where to fish" at www.ksoutdoors.com/fishing. You will also find on their website the 2022 Kansas Regulations Summary. From handy tips to specific information on all public water to ways to identify fish and knot tying techniques are just a few helpful pointers. So take advantage and try a new spot or two or take someone who has never fished and let them try it before they buy it. With the right spot, good bait, and the right weather, I'll bet they'll be hooked!

The Independence Police Department is looking for an Independence man who is suspected of attempted murder and other related charges.

At about 12:22pm today, IPD officers were dispatched to an injury accident with a car and cyclist. Witnesses reported the suspect left the scene but were able to identify the driver, who had a small child with him. A different driver returned to the scene with the vehicle. Witnesses reported the suspect intentionally struck the cyclist, who had serious injuries, and officers documented evidence at the scene that indicated it was intentional and not an accident.

39-year-old Brian Medsker is suspected of attempted murder, aggravated battery, aggravated assault, and aggravated child endangerment. The victim was transported to a hospital for treatment. IPD believes Medsker knows the victim and this was a targeted attack of opportunity, not a random act. IPD asks that if you know where Medsker is call 911 or 620-332-1700.

Governor Laura Kelly has signed bipartisan House Bill 2136, which will invest $50 million to help small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.

Senator Tom Holland says small businesses are what power the economy. This legislation builds on years of work to ensure they have the resources to continue serving customers and creating jobs.

Governor Kelly was joined at the bill signing by the Kansas Chamber of Commerce. Chamber Vice President Eric Stafford says House Bill 2136 is a product of the many people who have shown commitment to Kansas small businesses.

Independence Community College announces a new Interim Athletic Director.

Melissa Anderson will take over the position after the resignation of the previous director, Eric Figurski. ICC President Dr. Vincent Bowhay says they are excited to have Coach Anderson directing the future of their athletic programs. He says she is a passionate leader who is committed to the success of the students inside and outside of the classroom.

Anderson joined ICC in 2021 as the head volleyball coach. Anderson says she is grateful and thankful for this opportunity and her goal is to continue to build positive relationships and help serve the students and community.

Edna is hosting its annual SmokeNMotor Show this Saturday in downtown Edna.

The proceeds go toward Edna park improvements. Festivities start at 8 with the 5K/fun run. They will have live music, raffle drawings, a cornhole tournament, a car show, a cast-iron cookoff and will end with a poker run. Several food trucks will be on hand. For more information, you can go to the Edna SmokeNMotor Show’s Facebook page.

A Kansas City woman accused of decapitating her 6-year-old son has been found mentally unfit to stand trial. The Kansas City Star reports that a judge last week placed 35-year-old Tasha Haefs in the custody of the Missouri Department of Mental Health after finding her incompetent to stand trial. Haefs had been charged with first-degree murder in the killing of Karvel Stevens. Officers in February found the boy and a family dog decapitated. Police went to the home after a woman believed to be Haefs called and said the devil was trying to attack her. Haefs’ family members say she had struggled for years with drug addiction, depression, severe trauma and hallucinations. A message seeking comment was left Wednesday for Haefs’ public defender.

An Independence Police Department Officer is dispatched to investigate a domestic disturbance. 

The IPD officer responded to the altercation over the weekend, which occurred in the 900 block of East Maple. After their investigation, 18-year-old Korbin Wade, of Independence, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, aggravated endangering a child and criminal damage to property. 

The Scouts in Sedan are raising money for a Chautauqua County Veterans Memorial.

Currently, Chautauqua County has no memorial for those who served. The proposed site will be on the courthouse lawn and will cost around $30,000. The Scouts have been raising money through mud runs, selling cheeseburgers at the fair as well as hosting a raffle and have managed to raise about a third of the money needed.

They are currently raffling off a metal trailer with a wood floor. It was constructed by the Sedan FFA chapter. Tickets are $10 each or you can buy 6 for $50. Contact Richard Hambleton at 620-216-0085 or Lana Blankinship at 602-216-0782 to purchase tickets or for more information.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has signed bipartisan legislation that creates the state's suicide prevention and mental health crisis hotline, as well as behavioral health intervention teams.

Kansans will soon be able to dial 9-8-8 to receive support during a mental health emergency. According to a press release sent out by the governor's office, the mobile crisis teams "are created through partnerships between behavioral health professionals and others who provide professional, community-based crisis intervention services, which include de-escalation and stabilization for Kansans experiencing a behavioral health crisis."

The hotline is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. It will be within the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline Centers network.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood warning for the Verdigris River until this Saturday.  In Coffeyville, the prediction by the NWS is the river will crest at 18.2 feet.  Coffeyville City staff is monitoring the river stage, at the most recent check, it was at 14.9 feet.

In Independence, the current forecast has the river reaching 38.9 feet. That would be enough to cause flooding on Park Boulevard at Sycamore Street and the City Dam.  The city is closing access to the dam for at least 24 hours until the water recedes back down below the roadway. The street at Sycamore and Parkhurst is currently open but will be closed if water crosses the roadway at Park.

Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies respond to a reported dispute.

The incident occurred this weekend at a home outside of Baxter Springs. During their investigation, deputies learned a man had allegedly approached two other men while they were on their own property, pointed a handgun at them and threatened them. The suspect fled prior to law enforcement being notified.

Today, Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies located and apprehended the suspect, 37-year-old Nicholas Patton, of Baxter Springs. Patton was arrested on allegations of aggravated assault and transported to the Cherokee County Jail where he is being held in lieu of a $16,000 bond.

The producer of the former Chautauqua Hills Blues Festival has filed to run for an open Kansas house seat. Democrat Greg Wilkinson, who is running for the House District 11 seat, says he's running because he feels like there is just one party in charge.

Wilkinson says he is a supporter of funding education and improving infrastructure and wants to see the end of the battle over the education budget. Wilkinson is running for the seat that will be left open when current Representative Jim Kelly retires at the end of his term. Coffeyville's Ron Bryce has also filed to run as a Republican for the open seat.

Katie Sawyer of McPherson is selected as running mate by candidate for Governor Derek Schmidt. Sawyer, 38, if elected, will be the youngest Republican lieutenant governor currently serving in America. She has served almost six years as director of all in-state operations and constituent services for now-U.S. Senator Roger Marshall. Before public service, Sawyer was a teacher at McPherson College, managing editor of the McPherson Sentinel, and a reporter at the Pittsburg Morning Sun. She is a graduate of PSU and along with her husband operate a fourth-generation family farm in McPherson County. A strong believer in traditional Kansas values, Katie Sawyer says she wants every Kansas to have the opportunities she and her family have been afforded to build a wonderful life here in the greatest state in America.

The first outdoor Movie Night will take place at the Midland Theater this Friday.

The Midland Theater Foundation, in partnership with Community State Bank, will present Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle this Friday. Before the movie, there will be extra goodies, games and activities to pass the time.

The movie will start at dusk. Water and popcorn will be provided, but a small assortment of candy and soda will be sold as well.