With the coming of fall the pace of events and activities in the area is picking up.  The Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce recently released their calendar of Events.  As the activities increase Coffeyville’s Tourism Director, Amy Dollar says volunteers are needed to help.  Volunteers can call the Chamber at 251-2550.

Some of the events coming up soon include the Native American Unity Gathering and Hispanic Heritage Day, Dalton Defenders Days, Brewfest, and Spooktacular.  More information about upcoming events in Coffeyville is available at www.coffeyvillechamber.org

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration or NHTSA each year partners with local communities to sponsor Child Passenger Safety Week. This year it runs from September 18^th thru the 24^th.

Statistics say that nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly. And this bears out the tragic consequences in that two children every day in 2020 were killed while riding in vehicles and another 278 were injured. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for children under 19. Even more alarming, from 2016 to 2020 there were 1721 eight to fourteen-year-olds killed in passenger vehicles. That age had the highest number of fatalities (216) among children in passenger vehicles in 2020.

Booster seats are a critical step between harness car seats and adult seat belts. If the seat belt doesn’t fit your child correctly, it won’t offer them optimal protection in a crash. Children are safest when correctly secured in the right car seats or booster seats for their ages and sizes in the back seat — no matter the vehicle type. A bigger vehicle doesn’t mean your child can ride unbuckled.

The Cherryvale Community Center will host a Cornhole Tournament on Saturday, September 17th. Registration starts at 11 am and bags start flying at noon. The event is open to the public and the cost is $50 per team. Concessions will be available and they will raffle off a set of Cornhole Boards and Bags. The Cherryvale Community Center is located at 712 S. Liberty St.

The City of Independence has two city boards that need to be filled.

There is an opening on the Electrical Board. Applicants must be licensed by the city as an electrician. The board interprets the provisions of the National Electrical Code, and studies and recommends changes when necessary.

There is also an opening on the Tree Board. The purpose of this division is to honor the city's rich history of enjoying and preserving local natural resources and to promote and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare by providing for the development of a community forestry plan to address the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees located on public property, or which encroach upon public property, and to enhance the natural beauty of the community.

For more information contact Scott Patton by email or call 620-332-2512 or visit the link: https://library.municode.com/ks/independence/codes/code_of_ordinances?nodeId=PTIICO_CH2AD_ARTIIIBOCOCO_DIV8TRBO

Email: ScottP@IndependenceKs.gov

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt joins 21 state attorneys general yesterday in filing a brief in the 5^th Circuit US Court of Appeals in support of a group of Navy SEALS who are seeking exemptions from President Joe Biden’s administration’s vaccine mandate on the grounds that it violates their deeply held religious beliefs. The Biden administration has responded by saying the military should be forced to comply with the vaccine mandate, even overriding fundamental freedoms.

Schmidt says he won’t stop fighting to protect the jobs and liberties of Kansans, especially the men and women serving in the armed forces.

According to U.S. Department of Defense data, of 105,277 reported COVID cases within the U.S. Navy, only 17 deaths and one hospitalization have occurred. Yet only 47 religious accommodation requests have been approved and 4,251 requests remain pending.

Schmidt has previously obtained federal court injunctions blocking the OSHA vaccine mandate for private employers, the federal contractor vaccine mandate, and the Head Start vaccine and mask mandate.

The Big Hill Splash Aquatic Center is going to the dogs. For one day that is. On Monday, September 5^th from 5:30 to 7 pm your you and your dog will have a doggone good time swimming at the Aquatic Center. Admission is $6 for each dog with 1 responsible handler, each additional person will be $3 or you can bring a donation of a large bag of dog or puppy food or a large bag of cat or kitten food.

All dogs must be city registered or have proof of rabies vaccine. Proceeds will go to help the Coffeyville Friends of Animals shelter.

Late last week, according to the Coffeyville Police Department, 19-year-old Rian Green was arrested for alleged possession of marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia. Reports connected to the arrest have been sent to the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of formal charges.

The work on the destination park at Sherwin-Williams Park in Coffeyville is continuing.  The park, across from Community Elementary at 4^th and Cline is a project spearheaded by the Coffeyville Rec Commission with help from Sherwin-Williams and several community organizations.  Rec Commission Director, David Raines says the project has been scaled back from it’s original plan.

Raines says the park will have activities for kids and adults.  Raines spoke Tuesday to the Coffeyville Rotary Club which is one of the contributors to the park as part of their Centennial Celebration.          

Yesterday, an officer with the Independence Police Department responded to a tip in reference to a minor in possession of tobacco and marijuana. In the 1300 block of N. 10^th Street, after an investigation, a 14-year-old and a 17-year-old were arrested for alleged possession of marijuana, drug paraphernalia, and tobacco by a minor. Both parties were processed through juvenile intake and were released to their guardians.

Last week, Officers with the Independence Police Department came in contact with a male whom they knew had an outstanding active warrant. During a search of the male and his bag, Officers located illegal narcotics and paraphernalia. 20-year-old Anthony Minton of Independence was arrested for Failure to appear, alleged possession of methamphetamine, and alleged possession of drug paraphernalia. The arrest report has been sent to the Montgomery County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of formal charges.

The Labette County Board of Commissioners will meet in a special session tomorrow, August 31 at 8:30 am. in the commission room at the courthouse in Oswego. They are meeting before the regular meeting at 9 for an evaluation of a non-elected department head.

The Kansas Department Of Transportation is replacing the Deer Creek Bridge on US 166 or West Main Street just outside Sedan. This affects mainly north and southbound HWY 99 traffic and traffic on business US166 west of Sedan. There will be detour signs rerouting southbound HWY 99 traffic west to US 166 business loop and then back east on US 166 to the HWY 99 intersection south of Sedan. Northbound HWY 99, at the intersection south of Sedan, will go west on US166 to the Business US166 west exit following it east to HWY 99 west of Sedan.

KDOT say work on the 1.2 million dollar project, weather permitting, should be completed in the spring of 2023.

The Kansas Highway Patrol has been honored with its inclusion in the American Association of State Troopers Best Looking Cruiser Calendar for the first time. Proceeds from the calendar will go to support the AAST Scholarship Fund. KHP’s Challenger is featured in the month of September. To order your copy of the Best Cruiser Calendar and help support the Scholarship Fund visit the website www.statetroopers.org after October 1^st. The link as well as a photo of the Cruiser can be found on our website kggfradio.com in the printed version of this story.

Be aware of changes in sanitation service dates this next week due to Labor Day in Coffeyville and Independence. Next week’s trash service in Coffeyville will run one day behind the regular schedule. Bulk trash that’s scheduled for Monday will be picked up on Tuesday as well in Coffeyville. In Independence, the monthly recycling and brush dump access will be moved to September 10^th due to the Labor Day holiday. KGGF news will share changes in other area municipalities as they become available.

The Kansas Highway Patrol, in conjunction with the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Galena Police Department will be looking for drunk drivers this holiday weekend. According to a news release from KHP, a sobriety checkpoint will be set up on K-66 at Schermerhorn Rd, in Galena, KS.

Annually about 10,000 people are killed in alcohol-related traffic crashes, that’s one alcohol-related fatality every 50 minutes. Traffic-related deaths are the greatest single cause of death for children ages 0 to 19.

The goal of this checkpoint is to encourage compliance, by removing drivers that are under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs. Officers would appreciate the patience and cooperation of all citizens involved with the checkpoint.

All Kansas 7^th graders are encouraged to enter the League of Kansas Municipalities essay contest. The theme of the essay is:  “Let everyone know what makes your city your ‘home’.” The overall winner for the state of Kansas will win $250. Other winning essays will win cash prizes as well and they will be published in the Kansas Government Journal. You can view the details by clicking here. The deadline for submissions is November 23^rd, 2022.

There are now four candidates for Governor in Kansas. Libertarian Seth Cordell and Independent Dennis Pyle join Republican Derek Schmidt and Democratic Incumbent Laura Kelly.

This is the only governorship that the Democrats are defending in 2022 in a state that was won by Donald Trump in 2020. It is shaping up as a very tight race. Most independent observers rate the election as a toss-up. It’s not surprising, because by the end of July Kelly and Schmidt had spent a combined 3.7 million, the most spent on a Governor's race in the history of Kansas.

The extra candidates would seem to bode well for Kelly, but Schmidt seems to have history on his side. In the past 50 years, the incumbent governor in Kansas lost re-election when their party held the presidency.

In an effort to put the Coffeyville tag office in the black and keep it open as a service to the citizens of Coffeyville, the Montgomery County Commissioners voted in favor to increase many of the fees charged at that office. These changes would not affect the Independence office or if you mail in your title and registration work, only fees for walk-ins at the Coffeyville office will be changed. Commissioner Mike Cordray had spoken to several constituents in Coffeyville. Many told him with the price of gas and inflation, an increase in fees would be better than having to drive to Independence.

Some of the fees that have changed are the fees for special plates like handicapped, which would go from $1 to $2; to add or release lien holders, adding or removing owners, and regular renewals would go from $1 to $2. To replace a title, to obtain a savage, dealer, mechanic, or a non-highway title the fee would go from $1 to $5. To renew a title and registration would go from $3 to $5. 30-day, 60-day, or inspection permits would go from $1 to $2.

These changes will take place on October 1^st, 2022. They will be in addition to the existing state fees. The Commissioners plan to revisit the impact of the fee changes and the viability of continuing to keep the Coffeyville office open.

Staff at the Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence are saddened to report that Bucky, the popular fallow deer, has passed away. He was injured late last week after being injured by one of the zoo’s bison with which he shared an enclosure. Bucky was sedated and humanely euthanized after Zoo Veterinarian, Dr. Kevin Cooper’s examination concluded the deer’s injuries were fatal.

The incident was an aberration, and the staff says there is no reason to suspect the bison are a threat to other animals, staff, or zoo visitors. Bucky was the only other animal to share the bison pen.

The Chanute Police Department conducted a traffic stop, late last week, near the intersection of 5^th and Lincoln. In speaking with the persons involved, after an investigation and subsequent search, officers arrested 36-year-old Amanda Klotz of Chanute for alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The reports of the arrest were forwarded to the Neosho County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of charges.

According to the Sedan Police Department, there are several phone scams that are ripping off unsuspecting victims in our area. One that has been very successful for the crooks is you get a call from someone posing as a family member saying your relative is sick, has been arrested, or is in serious trouble and needs money right away. Another is they pose as a court official, indicating that you failed to appear for jury duty and you need to pay a fine or you will be arrested. Further still, cons will pose as the police, saying you’ll be arrested, fined, or deported if you don’t pay taxes or some other debt right away.

Crooks will also pose, as someone from social security, claiming that covid-19 related closures mean your benefits will be suspended unless you verify your information. Information fishing also takes place by posing as the IRS or even your bank.

To protect yourself, be suspicious of any call from a government agency asking for money or information. Government agencies don’t do that; scammers do. Don’t trust the caller ID, even if it might look real call, that can be faked. Never pay with a gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency. If you’re asked to pay anything this way, it’s a scam.  And finally, check with the actual agency, person, or company. Look up the phone number yourself, don’t use the number they give you. Then call to find out why they are trying to reach you. The best advice is to just hang up if you suspect it's a scam.

An area school is cancelled due to a lack of water pressure. In consideration of the impact it will have on the district, USD #484 in Fredonia will cancel classes today after consultation with the city. A decision will be made later in the day about athletic practices and the elementary open house scheduled for today. The announcement of that decision will be made via social media and the swift reach system.

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall made a stop in Labette County this week.  Marshall was in the county to see how the drought has affected local farmers.  Marshall made stops to three Labette County farms and heard from farmers how the drought conditions have affected them,  Marshall commented that the drought is much worse than he had thought.

Wilson County has made the list of the top 50 in the state of Covid infection rates.  Wilson County has the 15^th highest Covid infection rate in Kansas.  There has been a total of 3,085 cases in the county.  Reports indicate that 45% of the county has been vaccinated, which is higher than the national average of 40%.  The list was compiled using data from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and Covid Act Now.

Construction work on the new Independence Fire and EMS facilities continues to make progress.  HAVC, framer, and Fire sprinkler crews all began work this week.  Crews have already finished installing the remainder of the metal wall panels, wall insulation and vapor barriers, as well as roof panels.  Work will continue as weather permits.

Coffeyville Community College will be hosting it’s second performance in the Humanities series next week.  Shelby Eicher and the Hots Club Happy Hour Band will be giving a free performance at the Spencer Rounds Theater next Tuesday.

Eicher is a legendary fiddle player who has performed all over the world and was a member of Roy Clark’s band for 15 years.  The performance will feature a trio of musicians in a Gypsy wing Concert at 7pm Tuesday.

A teenager is arrested in Independence after an investigation by the Independence Police Department into a string of graffiti cases.

The first incident was reported in late June and the most recent was reported earlier this month. There were nine cases in total in which a unique symbol was either spray painted or written in a paint marker. Evidence discovered in the investigation led officers to a 14-year-old male. The teen cooperated with officers in the investigation and police arrested and charged him with several counts of criminal damage and felony criminal damage.

Officers believe at least 13 locations in Independence have been impacted. Chief Jerry Harrison says he would like to thank the businesses and volunteers that invested in successfully removing the graffiti.

Cherryvale schools were put in a soft lockdown for a period today after reports of threatening behavior near one of the schools.  Officials received word this morning that threatening behavior was verbalized by an individual.  However later, after investigation by Cherryvale police the threat was found not to be credible.  Cherryvale Schools Superintendent, Travis Githens says the district took precautions in the meantime.

The soft lockdown only was in effect at the two schools in Cherryvale and not the school in Thayer that is part of the district

Kansas will open Dove Season on September 1^st. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has a bag limit of 15, either mourning or white-winged doves. There is no limit on Eurasian collard or ringed turtle doves, but any taken in addition to the mourning and white-winged dove daily bag must have a fully-feathered wing attached while being transported. So, any Eurasian collard or ringed turtle doves must have at least a wing attached while being transported. There is a possession limit of 45 mourning and white-winged doves as well.

The vehicle stolen earlier this week has been recovered.  Independence Police detectives located the stolen 2006 blue Jeep Liberty south of the city limits.  The vehicle was unoccupied and has been returned to the owner.  The investigation is still ongoing. 

The vehicle was stolen Tuesday afternoon at the Elk City Lake Overlook. The suspect ordered the victim at gunpoint to hand over his belongings and then fled in the victim's vehicle. The suspect is described as a white male in their 20s with red hair and partially balding.  Anyone with information about the incident is asked to call the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at (620)330-1000. Do not approach the suspect as they are considered armed and dangerous.

The Parsons Police Department wants to make sure you are aware of a current scam involving the United States Postal Service. The swindle starts with a text message that reads

USP – Your package delivery has been suspended because your address does not match your zip code.

The message gives you a hyperlink to follow and input your information. DO NOT follow the link! Never, ever give out any of your information unless you initiated the contact with the other party, and only if they are a trusted source that you’ve used before.

The 1938 classic, Overland Stage Raiders, starring John Wayne and Cherryvale native, Louise Brooks will be shown Saturday evening September 3^rd on the lawn outside the Cherryvale Historical Museum at approximately 7:45 pm or just as the sun sets in the west.

Brooks was born in Cherryvale in 1906. Growing up in Cherryvale she acted in several plays before moving to Independence, and then to Wichita to expand her dance moves. While still in her teens, she was able to convince her parents that she could make it in New York. She no doubt did, she danced in the Ziegfeld Follies and by 1926 she was living in Hollywood and had broken into the silent film industry staring opposite such legends as W.C. Fields. Go see the hometown girl who became a worldwide sensation.

A new grant program was announced by Topeka this week that will allocate funds to rural governments, economic development organizations, chambers of commerce, and other organizations that will help revitalize communities with a population of 5000 or less. Strategic Economic Expansion and Development (SEED) program will make grants between $5000 and $50,000 in 78 designated counties in Kansas.

Categories will include projects that improve childcare and senior programming, projects that enhance the beauty of rural communities with art projects, murals, and signs; create, renovate or expand access to retail food establishments and library improvements, including books, technology, furniture, and building improvements.

The SEED program is funded through the Technology Enable Fiduciary Financial Intuitions Development And Expansion Fund. The TEFFI Act was passed with bipartisan support to promote economic development throughout the state.

To find out if SEED can help boost a project in your community attend the Kansas Department of Commerce’s webinar, Monday, August 29^th at 10 am. Grant applications will open August 29^th as well. Registration for the webinar, guidelines for the grant application, and a list of eligible counties click here: https://www.kansascommerce.gov/seedgrants/

email: seed@ks.gov.

Beginning Tuesday, September 6^th, the after-school program for Sedan USD 286 K-5^th grade students will focus on academic support, mentoring, student development, art, and recreation. Students will get a snack, and then they are assigned to their specific groups for homework help, reading/math enrichment, and hands-on STEM and art activities.

You can register online by clicking on the link here. You will need to fill out a separate form for each student you are registering.

On 7^th Street in Coffeyville between Lewark and Cline, Muller Construction, a subcontractor for J. Graham Construction is removing the existing curb and gutter. This is in preparation for the next phase of the CDBG Street Improvement Project, which will be installing the new curb and gutter.

Residents have been notified that mailboxes have been set back to allow work to commence. They will start on 7^th street, and then will move to 6^th Street and then on to 5^th Street

Today in the Ron Stevenson Building at Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville at 3 pm the public is invited to a Stormwater Forum hosted by the city of Coffeyville. Information about stormwater including pollution prevention will be addressed, as well as a question and concerns portion will be included in the program. Vehicles and equipment will be onsite for viewing.

Oklahoma voters had several run-off elections, but the closely watched race for the seat vacated by retiring long time Senator Jim Inhofe went to MarkWayne Mullin with 65% of the vote. He will face Democrat Kendra Horn in the November General Election. Mullin is a huge favorite, as Oklahoma hasn’t elected a Democrat to the Senate in over 30 years.

In the hotly contested race for US Congressional District Two, Josh Brecheen beat Avery Frix. The total statewide vote was 33,290 for Brecheen and Frix’s final total was 30,429.

The City of Independence, in an effort to bring transparency, insight, and understanding to the 2023 Municipal Budget, has introduced a new online platform with explanations of line-item allocations and how the budget is divided among City departments, as well as a property tax calculator for residents.

City Finance Director Lacy Lies said they are trying to make a rather complicated concept easier to understand and improve transparency and communications with residents. To access the City’s website click on the link here which will take you to the City of Independence Budget Book page.

To help combat opioid abuse, the federal government has awarded $3.2 million in grants that will go to rural first responders and members of other key community sectors at the state tribal, and local levels. The grant is intended to fund training in administering approved medication for the emergency reversal of opioid overdose.

First Responder Comprehensive Addiction & Recovery Act grants will be administered by the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services. First responder agencies will need to apply by September 15.

For more information click on the link here. https://kdads.ks.gov/funding-opportunities

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public's assistance in locating a stolen vehicle.

Yesterday afternoon at around 12:43pm, Montgomery County Dispatch received a call of an armed robbery and vehicle theft that occurred at the Elk City Lake Overlook. The suspect ordered the victim at gunpoint to hand over his belongings and then fled in the victim's stolen vehicle. The suspect is described as a white male in their 20s with red hair and partially balding.

The vehicle is a blue 2006 Jeep Liberty with Kansas plate number 450-AOW. If you see this vehicle, call the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office at 620-330-1000, your local law enforcement or 911. Do not approach the suspect as they are considered armed and dangerous.

Indian Education Program Parent Committee Meetings for USD 445 are coming up. On Wednesday, August 31, at 6:00 the Johnson-O’Malley Parent Committee will be held, followed by the Title VI(6) Indian Education Committee at 6:30. Indian Education supports the efforts of local educational agencies, Indian tribes, and organizations to meet the unique educational and culturally related academic needs of Native Americans. For more information go to the printed version of this story on our website for the phone number and email link for USD 445 Indian Education Program Director Kris Crane.

620-252-6420 ext 13201

kris.crane@cvilleschools.com

There are several items coming up on the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce’s area calendar of events. Outdoor movie night will be on August 26 at 7 pm and will feature the movie Encanto. Business Over Breakfast will be held at the Best Western on September 7^th at 7:30 am. Also on the 7^th, at 4 pm Gillham Retail Liquor will host a Wine Tasting, and The 100 Mile Garage Sale is on September 9^th and 10^th. Visit our website at kggfradio.com for the link to the chamber’s website for the full calendar.

https://cca.coffeyvillechamber.org

Coffeyville’s Bob Roesky has been named Kansas EMT of the Year.  Roesky received the award at the Kansas EMS Association’s Annual Conference and Expo held in Mulvane.  Roesky is a retired 30 plus year veteran of the Coffeyville Fire Department where he came up through the ranks to be named Chief in 2016 before his retirement in 2019.

The MG Board of commissioners met for their regular meeting Monday (yesterday) and  Mg. Co. Treasurer Nancy Clubine, was asked to speak to the error that was found by a recent audit of her department. She found the mistake and advised the board as to how and why it happened. Apparently, some money was held by the court in 2021 and should not have been included in the totals for that year.

The board also was asked by Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson and Lee Miller for permission to move further in the project they have been working on to use grant money to hire a temporary worker to go through all of the businesses, groups, and organizations that would be available to use if there was a large event in Montgomery county where there were multiple victims that needed help.

They are not ready to hire anyone as of yet but, they wanted to advise and get permission to move forward.

Chairperson Bever said they would support the project and let them know their progress on this issue.

Human Resources Director Becky Lewis reported that October 12^th will be the date for the County Employee Health Fair from 6:30 am to 10 pm. The health department will be there as well giving out flu shots. Breakfast will be provided by Eggberts. 

Earlier this week, Deputies stopped a 2001 Yukon, at 14^th and Walnut in Independence, that displayed a tag that belonged to a different vehicle. The driver was identified as Jade T.M Ramirez-Gonzalez of Coffeyville. Deputies were made aware that Ramirez-Gonzalez was wanted by the U.S. Marshalls office, involving a narcotics case. Upon a search of the vehicle, deputies allegedly found marijuana.

Ramirez-Gonzalez was transported to the Montgomery County Department Of Corrections for the warrant, where it was discovered she had allegedly brought methamphetamine into the DOC. Ramirez-Gonzalez was booked into the DOC with no vehicle registration, no liability insurance, possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, and trafficking contraband into a correction facility. The Mg Co Attorney’s office will review the case and bring formal charges.

While working for the Hutchinson police department, an officer is suspected of committing a rash of sexual assaults between 2012 and 2018.

51-year-old Todd Allen was charged with 24 counts, including 17 felonies. According to the Associated Press, the charges include rape, kidnapping, and aggravated indecent liberties with a child. Police Chief Jeff Hooper said Allen became a suspect after he was questioned about a series of “window peeping” calls. The assaults stopped in 2018 when Allen resigned from the force.

It is unclear if Allen was in uniform when the sexual assaults happened.

In an effort to get legalized sports gambling launched in Kansas, the Attorney General’s office approved three regulations proposed by the Kansas Lottery, however, there were several that were sent back for review.

The Kansas Lottery has been tasked with oversight of sports gambling in Kansas.  The AG office said some “shortcomings” needed to be corrected. The problems generally encompass definitions, marketing agreements, and advertising rules. Friday, officials with the Lottery, said they are confident the changes can be made in time for the planned September 1 debut.

The Montgomery County Board Of Commissioners will meet for their regular session Monday, August 22 at 9 am in the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence.

The Agenda shows they will meet with Nancy Clubine, the County Treasurer, followed by Lee Miller with Emergency Management about a possible grant-funded short-term position for victim services. Jim Wright with Public Works will meet with the board at about 9:30. Human Resources director, Becky Lewis will discuss the health fair. Sheriff Ron Wade will wrap things up at approximately 10.

The agenda is subject to change and as always the meeting is open to the public.

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Officers with the Chanute Police Department earlier this week responded to the 1600 block of W. 4^th St. for a trespassing complaint. After an investigation, officers arrested 34-year-old Allison Ikehorn of Chanute for alleged burglary, possession of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia.

The Neosho County Attorney’s office will review the reports and consider formal charges to be filed.

Coffeyville man was arrested for distribution of opiates, possession of paraphernalia with intent to manufacture, no drug tax stamp and no vehicle registration.

Earlier this week, 41-year-old Ronald Brooks Jr., was arrested by Coffeyville Police. The case has been turned over to the Montgomery County Attorney’s office for review and formal charges to be filed.

Last week the Carthage Missouri Police Department responded to a home in the 100 block of N. Maple in Carthage. A child was found unresponsive inside a hot vehicle. The investigation shows the child got in the vehicle on her own, but could not get back out.

The 3-year-old died in a Springfield hospital the next day. As of now, no charges have been filed.

She was the 16^th hot car death of a child in 2022. Wednesday a child in Fort Smith, Ark. died from being trapped in a hot car. Authorities are awaiting the findings of an autopsy. It could be the 17^th death because of hot car entrapment. In 2021 a non-profit group that tracks these catastrophes say that 23 children died in a vehicle and almost all could have been prevented. Technology is being developed that would help prevent these needless deaths. Until then we all will have to be diligent and aware of how senseless and preventable these deaths are

Kansas Senate Bill 84, bipartisan legislation legalizing sports betting in Kansas, is coming to fruition. The new law signed by Governor Laura Kelly allows wagering in Kansas on mobile apps, in casinos, and venues like restaurants and nonprofit fraternal or veteran organizations.

The 4 state-run casinos including the Kansas Crossing Casino & Hotel in Pittsburg, will, under temporary rules and regulations, officially begin accepting wagers September 1st. This is just in time for the first professional football game on September 8^th.

Tribal casinos are still working with the state on contracts. When they are completed these casinos will be authorized to launch as soon as they are ready.

The Kansas Lottery Commission, who will oversee the new law, has a video that explains the recent updates.

Here is the link to the video.  More information about Kansas sports wagering can be found on the Kansas Racing and Gaming Commission’s website: krgc.ks.gov

Earlier this week, Officers with the Caney Police Department performed a traffic stop at 2^nd St. and Highway 75 due to alleged equipment violations. The driver, 43-year-old Benjamin Valley from Anderson, MO, according to the Caney PD, had a .40 caliber pistol concealed on his person in addition to other weapons in the vehicle. A search of the vehicle revealed drugs and paraphernalia. One of the weapons in Valley’s possession was an alleged stolen pistol from Albuquerque, NM.

Valley faces possession of stolen property, criminal use of a weapon, possession of a controlled substance, and drug paraphernalia. The Montgomery County Attorney has been forwarded the reports and will formally file the charges.

Montgomery County’s former assistant prosecutor was formally charged late last week with 3 misdemeanors. According to the Montgomery County Chronicle, David Yoder of Hutchinson, a special prosecuting attorney, charged Daylene B. Walls with driving under the influence of alcohol, battery on a law enforcement officer, and interference with a LEO. This was a result of a traffic incident on June 13^th.

Walls, according to the sheriff’s department, slapped an officer and became combative when she was approached after her vehicle went off the roadway near the intersection of us 150 and 75 east of Independence. She was taken into custody and booked in the county jail.

Steven Simmons was following Walls that night, and he, according to the Sheriff's department tried to interfere with Wall’s arrest. He was also charged with misdemeanor interference with a LEO Tuesday and is waiting for his first formal appearance hearing.

Separately, the Office of Disciplinary Administrator is investigating in the case and sanctions could be applied against Walls’ law license.

The Republican Gubernatorial candidate and present Attorney General Derek Schmidt is proposing the expansion of US Highways 54 & 400.

Specifically, Schmidt wants to widen the highways to 4 lanes from Wichita to at least Parsons. The right of way is already owned by the state to Parsons and planning is underway to complete the US 69 four-lane connection to I44. Schmidt says that it’s time to be bold in this corridor so we can get the maximum economic benefit from the power of a four-lane highway in attracting new investment and career opportunities in Southern Kansas.

The biggest obstacle is stability in transportation funding. Kansas voters decades ago decided to separate money from long-term investment in transportation projects from annual state operating needs by constitutionally committing the state motor fuels tax solely to transportation. The problem is that now the sales tax on gas doesn't pay for all the existing and future transportation projects and so that puts transportation money for new projects in direct competition with other state priorities such as education and social services. This has resulted in money being diverted, by both sides of the aisle, to other projects or purposes.

Schmidt is proposing a constitutional amendment to protect stable transportation funding. Schmidt says, the ‘Bank of KDOT’ needs to be permanently closed. Schmidt was a guest on the Mighty 690 Thursday.

The deadline is this Friday to file an application for a couple of Independence Boards. Currently, there are openings on the Park Board and Historic Preservation and Research Commission. Applications can be filed online at www.independenceks.gov
Applications for both must be filed by noon this Friday.

After this week's rain, Cherokee County has temporarily lifted the burn ban that's been in place since mid-July. County Commissioners decided to lift the ban just for this week and will look at weather conditions next week before making a decision to lift the ban for a longer period of time.

Coffeyville law enforcement officers will be joining other agencies around the state in stepping up checks for drunk driving going into the Labor Day weekend. Increased checks for drunk drivers will begin this Saturday and continue through Labor Day weekend. The crackdown is part of the 'You Drink, You Drive, You Lose' statewide campaign.

It is doubtful the amount of rain today was enough to persuade Caney city councilors to remove the water conservation warning issued Monday. The current warning is unrelated to the mechanical issue at the water plant late last week but is in response to the limited water supply in the Little Caney River, which serves as Caney’s water source. A backup supply from Timber Hill Lake, a watershed north of Niotaze has been tapped out.

Citizens of Caney, until further notice are asked to conserve by refraining from watering lawns or gardens, washing cars, and limiting washing as much as possible.

Businesses are encouraged to conserve water consumption. Car washes and industries that use a high volume of water are asked to voluntarily restrict usage.

If the City is forced to raise the threat level to a water emergency, mandatory rationing would be imposed, and it would mean shutting down some business

While in the process of serving an arrest warrant in the 100 block of N. Lincoln Ave in Chanute, Officers with the Chanute PD not only served the active arrest warrant to 35-year-old Tiffany Peacock of Chanute; they also, after an investigation, charged Peacock with alleged possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia.

The Neosho County Attorney’s Office has been forwarded the officer's reports for review and consideration of charges to be filed.

If you take 50 high school students from 6 different schools, mix them together and within 24 hours, have them produce, in front of a live audience, five brand new 10-minute plays, you will have a truly interesting, educating, and no doubt entertaining event.

The Independence Community College Fine Arts will host a free performance of the 24-Hour Plays on August 27^th at 7 pm in the historic William Inge Theater.

Students arrive on the evening of the 26 for check-in; five writers will stay overnight in the William Inge Center working on their plays. The next day the remainder of the students join in for rehearsal, costume, and set design.

Director of Theater Performance at ICC, Paul Molnar feels it is truly an exceptional experience. It allows students concretely to engage creatively with peers from around the region while being mentored by professional writers and ICC theatre students. The event is free and open to the public.

Please use caution this morning as you drive through residential areas. Not only because school has just started for almost everyone, but when we have long periods without precipitation a build-up of oil, grease, and other petrochemicals occurs on the roadway.

So, when we do get a little rain, and it’s especially more prevalent when it is only a small amount of rain like we had last night, it is repelled by the oily residue and creates a very slick roadway. When we get a large amount of rain it tends to scour it off and it’s not as dangerous.

So as you drive to work, pick up the kids, go to the store, or just go about your daily life, just be aware that the roadway may not have the same traction as you normally think it would.

The Montgomery County Board Of Commissioners will meet in a special session on Wednesday, August 24^th at 1 pm in the lower level of the Judicial Center in downtown Independence.

It is for an EBMS Insurance Meeting.

The meeting will be streamed on Facebook live and Zoom. Just as the regular Monday meeting can be remotely viewed in real-time in the same format.

Last November Deb Haaland, the first Native American Secretary of the Interior in a news release deemed the word squaw as an ethnic, racial, and sexist slur.

It’s true the term squaw originated from the Algonquian word for woman, but Haaland said its meaning has been skewed for centuries by white people.

The edict she issued last November resulted in a 13-member federal task force to find and recommend replacement names for geographic features on federal lands that include the term Squaw. Haaland announced the task force had completed its review.

The Squaw Creeks in Montgomery and Chautauqua Counties were identified by the task force to be renamed. Four other locations in Kansas were also identified and will be named something inoffensive and welcoming to all.

Some Proposed New Names in Montgomery County are Bald Mound Creek, Elk City Lake Creek, and Walker Mound Creek. Some of Chautauqua County’s suggestions are Hogback Hill Creek, Santa Fe Lake Creek, Butcher Falls Creek, and Flint Hills Creek. The U.S. Board on Geographic Names is expected to vote on those recommendations in September.

The new Director and Head coach of the Esports program at Independence Community College competed semiprofessionally and ranked in the top 1% of participants in elite team Esports competitions across various paid leagues and tournaments. Kealan McCutcheon joins the ICC family from Hills, Michigan.

The Esports Arena at ICC houses 21 gaming stations for students, three public flat screens for gaming, and a driving/flight simulator. Students are free to compete, live stream/broadcast tournaments and handle motion graphics. ICC offers specific classes that allow graduates to continue their degree at a four-year college.

The 2021-2022 Esports Team brought home a National Title from the NACE Starleague Grand Finals. McCutcheon plans to continue the success in 2022-2023.

Police Chief Kevin Kitterman with the Caney Police department is in the process of starting a Police Chaplin Program. If you would like to know more about the program or would consider applying, call the Chief at 620-879-2141 or come by the Caney Police Department Office and get an application.

Over 20 artists from Southeast Kansas, Wichita, Bixby, and Tulsa, have entered into the September 2022 Independence Historical Museum & Art Center Open Gallery Show & Sell Exhibit. It is open to the public. Entrants and winners are from various art exhibits including the Verdigris Valley, the Neosho County, and the Bartlesville Art Exhibits. The Show and Sale Exhibitors will be offering something for everyone with various mediums and a wide range of subject matter. Unmatted and unframed works, as well as finished artwork, will be sold to help artists with rising costs.

Artwork will be on display and for sale to the public from September 1 through September 24^th. The museum is open Tuesday through Saturday, 10 am to 4 pm, located at 123 N. 8^th St. in Independence.

If you want to be a part of the biggest garage sale of the year then you will want to be on the map and all participants are required to have a permit. The annual Kan-Okla 100-mile Garage Sale is planned for September 9^th and 10^th.

To register you need to go to the Chamber of Commerce in the city in which you live. For folks in Independence that location is at 616 N Penn. The CofC is at 807 Walnut in Coffeyville.

Permits must be purchased by all persons selling items in the event before September 2^nd that's if you want to be sure to be on the map handed out to all shoppers.

The cost of the permit is $5 and covers your city permit if you live in Coffeyville. For those living in Independence, the permits are free at the Chamber Office.

An arrest is made after a bomb goes off in Parsons. 

At around 5:00am yesterday morning, an individual set off an improvised explosive device in a dumpster at the Labette County Judicial Center in Parsons.  Labette County Sheriff's officers watched surveillance video and observed a white male placing the device in the dumpster.

The individual was identified as 62-year-old James Dale Sutton and was taken into custody. This incident is still under investigation by the ATF, FBI, KBI, Parsons Police Department and Labette County Sheriff’s Office.

If you like dining from food trucks you’re in for a treat this Friday.  Coffeyville Community College is planning a food truck frenzy this Friday for the lunch hour from 11 until 2.  The event, being organized by the College’s Student Life Department is planned as a welcome back to students but also welcomes faculty, staff and the community. 

Food Truck Frenzy will be held on the west side of the Student Union.  You’ll be able to enjoy loaded baked potatoes, authentic Mexican and Venezuelan and soul food including fried catfish, chicken, polish and sausage along with traditional American dishes.  Participating vendors will include Tate’s Tater Truck, KCG and Dago’s Taco Truck, Nanny’s Soul Food and Chartwell’s Dining.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners voted during their regular session to send a letter to the city of Coffeyville expressing their support along with $100,000 as soon as the City shows they have obtained the grant from the state for broadband Internet. They will also send a similar letter to Spark Light and a check for $216,000 once they obtain the grant money for the upgrade of infrastructure for broadband internet for the rest of the county they agreed to cover. The board also voted to send a letter of support to Totah Communications which is upgrading some of the rural parts of the county on their own dime. No money was asked for and none will be sent to Totah.

The Commission Chair Robert Bever also made a point to say that this was grant money the county is using to help Coffeyville and Spark Light.

Bids are being sought by the City of Independence for the installation of networking security and video security infrastructure. The vendor will provide a proposal to offer a complete network cabling solution and security system that covers all steps from the initial site survey to equipment acquisition and complete installation, including cabling. The project includes installation of CAT6 data drops, fiber installation, door access drops, and hardware; security system installation includes motion detection, video with audio, panic alarms, and wireless access points.

Locations include 900 W. Myrtle – New Fire – EMS station, 225 E. Main – Police evidence storage, and 120 N 6^th – Renovation of City Hall. Bids will be accepted until midnight, September 8^th.

Last week, officers with the Chanute Police Department conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Sycamore and Santa Fe after an investigation officers arrested 43-year-old James Waggoner of Fredonia, for allegedly driving while suspended for 3^rd or more times, illegal display of license plate, operating an uninsured vehicle, and improper turn signal. After a short foot pursuit, 21-year-old Ian Faller of Chanute was arrested for alleged interference with a law enforcement officer, possession of methamphetamine, and possession of drug paraphernalia.  The completed reports were forwarded to Neosho County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of charges being filed.

Senator Virgil Peck hopes his “Back-To-School Tax-Free Holliday” bill will get traction in the next legislative session in Topeka. As a legislator who lives on the border, he sees we are losing revenue to our neighboring states that already have a tax-free weekend to help families buy the items they need to get their kids back to school.

He went on to say that a study showed that on average over $600 is spent on back-to-school items per student, and that’s a lot of money that is going across the state line that could be spent here. Senator Peck was a guest on the KGGF morning news on the mighty 690 Friday morning.

The Montgomery County Commissioners will meet on Monday, August 15^th at 9 am in the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The Board plans for a long meeting; with the last item on the agenda slated for 1 pm. Items on the agenda for Monday are as follows. Sheriff Ron Wade will discuss the network server and inmate housing. Canvas election workers who will certify votes will be there. Becky Lewis will speak about Human Resources issues. Jason Clubine will discuss the broadband for the county and Phil Jarred will be present for the 2023 budget. As per Kansas Law, the meeting is open to the public

Parsons Police Lieutenant Kyle Wilford ended a weeklong investigation that resulted in the arrest of a non-compliance sex offender registration. 52-year-old Calvin Willie Buford of Parsons was located by Lt. Wilford on August 10 on Birch Ave. in Parsons where Lt. Wilford performed a traffic stop and arrested Buford for failure to register as an offender with 2 or more prior convictions. The traffic stop also resulted in additional charges. Buford was charged with driving while suspended, transportation of an open container, and possession of a controlled substance. Buford was required to register as a sex offender for previous convictions of Sexual Battery by Adult with a victim under 12 and lewd and lascivious contact with a child under 16. According to the Parsons Police Department, he also has a criminal career spanning over 30 years.

This continues to be an ongoing investigation and citizens are encouraged to "See It, Hear It, Report It." If anyone has any further information on this incident or any other criminal activity, please contact the Parsons Police Department at 620-421-7060 or call the Tip Line at 620-421-7057 or email at tips@parsonspd.com.

Last night's PRCA Rodeo and the wonderful weather brought out the crowds at Coffeyville's Inter-State Fair and Rodeo. The always exciting Demolition Derby starts tonight at 7 in the grandstands. The Jr. Market livestock sale will be at 4:30 in the arena and the carnival begins at 6 and will run until midnight.

A storm sewer failure has created a sinkhole on the highway and traffic is restricted to two lanes on U.S. 169 between the Oklahoma state line and U.S. 166 at Coffeyville. You can check out the Kansas Department of Transportation’s website www.kandrive.org which shows all of the construction sites across the state and updates daily.

The Bartlesville Police Department and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation ask the Public’s help locating 18-year-old Bailey Whitney of Delaware, Ok. They would like to question her about the suspicious disappearance of 21-year-old Devin Viles,

Viles, who was last seen in Tulsa wearing a white Nike ball cap, white shoes, and a black and white lanyard. He is described as being 5’8”, 130 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Whitney is a Native American female, 5’7, 130 pounds with black hair and brown eyes. There is a photo of Whitney in the online version of this story at kggfradio.com.

If you have information on either Whitney or Viles, please contact the OSBI at (800) 522 8017 or tips@osbi.ok.gov. You can remain anonymous.

The city of Caney is currently under a mandatory water conservation order. This is due to a problem at the water plant. This means no watering lawns, you should avoid showering and bathing, laundry, or anything that uses an excessive amount of water.

The city will notify the public once the problem has been resolved and the order lifted.

The 40^th Anniversary of the William Inge Theatre Festival on the campus of Independence Community College will feature the local playwright’s Tony-nominated play, THE DARK AT THE TOP OF THE STAIRS. Every 10 years the Theatre Festival chooses to honor its namesake, one of America’s greatest playwrights, William Inge.

THE DARK AT THE TOP OF THE STAIRS ran on Broadway from December 1957 to January 1959 and was on the big screen in 1960.

Independence Community College’s Director of Theatre Performance, Paul Molnar will direct the legendary play and will be bringing in a couple of guest actors who will be working alongside the theatre students to bring the story to life.

The Festival is scheduled for April 20^th-22^nd, 2023. 

The Chanute Police Department served a search warrant in the 1600 block of S. Highland Ave. After an investigation officers arrested 43-year-old Samuel Harley of Chanute for alleged possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

Reports were forwarded to Neosho County Attorney’s office for review and charges to be filed.

Labette County Commission Chair Lonie Addis has called a special session for tomorrow at 9 am. The Board will meet in the commission room at the Courthouse in Oswego.

Addis expects most of the meeting to be in closed session, but there is the possibility of decisions being made. The clerk and counselor will join the board for the early part of the meeting. The Board will be requesting an Attorney-Client Executive session. If time allows they will do an employee evaluation with a possible executive session. There may also be discussion on the roof repair at the Labette County Barn in Altamont. The Board at some point may request the County Appraiser to sit in as well.

Former Director of the Montgomery County Action Council Trisha Purdon is now the Director for the Office of Rural Prosperity. Her Office has developed a pilot program to help revitalize rural communities across Kansas.

The Rural Champion Project was identified through surveys and interviews of more than 600 rural Kansans under the age of 40 as something that would move the needle toward success.

To apply, communities describe challenges that are slowing progress and how a Rural Champion would benefit and advance economic success.

Twelve communities will be selected for the program and will receive a stipend for the wages of the Rural Champion.

Examples of community projects that are critically needed, but not limited to: new childcare facility or rehabilitating a building to support a childcare center, health and wellness projects like a trail system or shared bike trails, or new or rehabilitation of housing units.

Applicants must be located in counties with less than 40,000 in population. You must apply by 5 pm Friday, September 16^th. An informational webinar will be held at 10 am Thursday, August 18.
Link to register for the webinar or more information. Rural Champions will be announced in late September and will have one year to complete their projects.

The Montgomery County Commissioners will meet tomorrow at 9 a.m. for a Special Work Session in the Commissioner’s Meeting Room in the Judicial Center in Independence. On Monday, August, 15^th the regular weekly Commissioner’s Meeting will start at 9 am. An agenda will be available tomorrow.

Local partners are needed in Kansas to help implement a program that provides qualified low-income Kansans the opportunity to achieve financial self-sufficiency via special savings accounts. Community charities and tribal and religious organizations that sign up to help administer the Individual Development Account program can receive up to $100,000 in tax credits annually.

If your organization is interested in administering an IDA program, visit the Department of Commerce’s introductory webinar on Tuesday, August 16^th at 1 p.m. Registration is required to attend.

Click on the link to register or for more information. Contact Community Development Specialist Sara Bloom by either email or phone.

Link to Register for Webinar: Click Here

sara.bloom@ks.gov

(785) 506-9278

Eight years of legislative work culminates today for Kansas Senator Jerry Moran with the signing of the SFC Heath Robinson Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxics (PACT) Act of 2022.

Senator Moran said, “Thank you to SFC Heath Robinson’s family and all the veterans and advocates who worked tirelessly to get this long-overdue bill passed through Congress and signed into law. Today would not have been possible without their input, commitment and dedication. From Vietnam veterans suffering from Agent Orange to the 3.5 million post-9/11 veterans exposed to burn pits during their deployments, our nation’s veterans and their families will no longer have to fear being turned away from the VA for illnesses connected to toxic exposure.

Kansas Senator Moran and Montana Senator Jon Tester co-sponsored the historic, bipartisan legislation.

Yesterday a small zippered pouch was found at the intersection of North 15^th St. and West Locust St. in Independence. The Independence Police Department has the found property. If you are missing a small zippered pouch then go by the office or call the station 620-332-1700 and reference case number 22-1373.

Kansas Gubernatorial hopeful and current Attorney General Derek Schmidt has received another endorsement. The 29^th U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations and the 116^th and first female Governor of South Carolina, Nikki Haley gave her nod to Schmidt on social media today.

She said “AG Schmidt’s a pro-law and order, pro-2A, pro-small business freedom fighter who has taken Biden to court—and won. As governor, he’ll be a strong voice for the people of Kansas, and make sure his state is free from Washington's liberal overreach."

Schmidt thanked Ambassador Haley for her support.

The Independence Chamber of Commerce Get Independence and Independence Community College are hosting an event later this month. On Saturday, August 27^th at 7:30 Free Movie Night at the oval at Riverside Park will feature the Disney movie Encanto. Carousel rides will be free as well as Fire Hose Bowling.

There will be activities from Independence Community College, including free root beer floats, with more activities in the works. For more information click here to go to Get Independence’s Facebook page.

Get an early start today at the Coffeyville Inter-State Fair and Rodeo and take in the PRCA Rodeo Slack at 8 am this morning while it’s nice and cool. This should get you ready for the PRCA Rodeo tonight at 7:30 pm. Other events today include the rabbit, sheep, poultry and goat shows. The Parade will be held in downtown Coffeyville at 4. the kiddie pedal pull is at 5:30 at Hargis Drive and the Bean and Watermelon Feed in Walter Johnson park is at 5:30 as well. Don't forget the carnival will be open from 6 to 11 pm

Bull Riding took center stage at last night’s Interstate Fair and Rodeo in Coffeyville.  A good crowd turned out as the first night of grandstand events got underway at 7:30 last night with the LJ Jenkins Bull Riding event.  The first night of the carnival along with some relief from the heat brought out the crowds to the fairgrounds at Coffeyville’s Walter Johnson Park.

Events continue tonight as the first of two nights of PRCA Rodeo action get underway at 7:30.  In addition to the rodeo the annual downtown rodeo parade gets underway at 4:00 this afternoon followed by the bean and watermelon feed out at the fairgrounds at 5:30.

Other events on today’s schedule include the Rabbit Show starting at 8:00am, the Sheep Show at 9:00, Poultry Show at 1:00pm, Goat Show at 4:00 and the Kiddie Tractor Pull at 5:30pm.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt and 21 other state attorneys general and the solicitor general of Iowa, ask U.S. court of appeals, via an amicus brief, to continue to block a federal airline mask mandate that would also require masks on all public transit.

The brief states the court should reject CDC’s latest overreach and affirm the lower court ruling from earlier this year blocking the mask mandate. It goes on to say that throughout the pandemic, this administration has turned to novel, expansive, and dubious reading of its authorities. The Brief also says the CDC has been among the worst offenders, making ‘unprecedented assertions of power. The Supreme Court summarily rejected CDC’s position to authorize a nationwide eviction moratorium. CDC’s order grounding cruise ships also was soundly rejected.

Schmidt’s lawsuit against the Biden administration seeking to end the public transit mask mandate has been stayed pending the decision.

Changes in the healthcare system over the last several decades have had an adverse effect on the availability of health services locally.   Longtime Coffeyville doctor Paul Sandhu says there are far fewer private doctors in practice locally then there were a few years ago.

The Practice Manager for Southeast Kansas Community Health Care for Montgomery County, Jaia Kister says clinics like hers are trying to fill the gap.

Both Dr. Sandhu and Kister spoke to members of the Coffeyville Rotary Club yesterday.  

A ribbon cutting is being held at the end of the month for a new veteran's home in Independence. Home Sweet Home Ministries Ruth Hanke says they wanted to open the Miller House in honor of her father.

The ribbon cutting is on August 25^th at 11:30am. There will be speakers as well as music played so they ask to bring a lawn chair to the event. There will also be refreshments available inside the home. The Miller House is located at 1116 West Laurel Street in Independence.

Labette County Commission Chair Lonie Addis has called a special session for this Friday, August 12^th at 9 am. The Board will meet in the commission room at the Courthouse in Oswego.

Addis expects most of the meeting to be in closed session, but there is the possibility of decisions being made. The clerk and counselor will join the board for the early part of the meeting. The Board at some point may request the County Appraiser to sit in as well.

A carjacking spree ends in a deadly confrontation. Tulsa Police say 32-year-old David Getsinger and 43-year-old Dustin LeLeux stole more than one car Saturday.

They started early, at 7:15 am when an owner left his keys in his truck as he went inside a donut shop. A few hours later, at about 11 am, TPD was flagged down near 21 and 1-244. Witnesses said two men attacked a man working on a construction site and stole his truck. That truck was abandoned in midtown Tulsa, and the pair stole yet another truck.

This time the owner of the vehicle they stole told police he saw Getsinger and LeLeux driving his truck and he followed the duo and tried to confront them near S. Peoria Avenue and Riverside. TPD says Getsinger pulled a knife on the car theft victim. The victim wrestled it away from Getsinger and stabbed him with it, killing Getsinger. TPD said LeLeux was arrested and charged with second-degree felony murder, robbery and larceny. The car theft victim was not charged and the investigation is ongoing.

The Chanute Police Officers stopped a bicycle in the 1200 block of S. Highland Ave. yesterday. After an investigation, officers arrested 25-year-old Donavon Knoffloch, of Chanute for alleged improper bicycle lamps, possession of methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. This was not the first time Officers had encountered Knoffloch on his bike.

In November 2021, Knoffloch was charged with allegedly riding a bicycle without proper lighting, and alleged possession of methamphetamine, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.

Reports, upon completion, will be forwarded to Neosho County Attorney’s office for review and consideration of charges being filed.

The Coffeyville Police Department on Sunday arrested 51-year-old Shanya Morgan for alleged distribution of opiates. She was also charged with alleged possession of marijuana, possession of paraphernalia, and felony interference with a law enforcement officer.

A Coffeyville man was taken into custody by Coffeyville Police Department due to 4 outside warrants. 60-year-old Edward Adame was also charged with alleged aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, felony interference with a Law Enforcement Officer, possession of opiate, possession of paraphernalia, and traffic in contraband in a correctional facility

Main grandstand events kick off tonight at Coffeyville’s Interstate Fair and Rodeo.  Gates will open at 6:00 this evening for the LJ Jenkins Bull Riding event which gets underway at 7:30.  In addition to Bull Riding this evening the carnival midway will be open from 6 until 11 tonight.              

Events and activities will continue through Saturday with PRCA Rodeo action tomorrow and Thursday nights and two nights of demolition derby on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners met with Rick Whitson and gave him permission to purchase a used ATV for use by the county. The Board also agreed to pursue businesses that were lent money thru grants obtained by the Montgomery County Action Council. They left it up to the council which attorney they used. Most of the rest of the meeting was spent on Broadband Internet for the entire county. However, the discussion was put on hold by Chairperson Robert Bever, so as to find out what portion of the cost will be shared by the city of Independence.

Chairperson Bever also wanted a breakdown on how much it would cost rural citizens, Cherryvale, Caney and all other cities planning to get fiber optic.

One of the largest investment managers for several state pension funds, including a portion of the Kansas Public Employees Retirement System(KPERS) portfolio, is asked to clarify its priorities and ensure that investor money is not being used to further the firm’s political agenda related to energy policy.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt sent a letter to Laurence Fink, CEO of BlackRock, Inc., along with 18 other state AGs expressing concerns that the company’s conflicting statements regarding its investment policies are at odds with its fiduciary responsibility to seek returns for investors. The letter also said that BlackRock was using its assets to pressure companies to comply with the forced phase-out of fossil fuels, which increases energy prices, drives up inflation, and weakens the United States national security.

The attorneys general went on to say that BlackRock is a far cry from being a spectator betting on the game, but appears to have put on a quarterback jersey and has actively taken the field. They made it clear that pensioners’ retirements will not be sacrificed for BlackRock’s climate agenda.

Schmidt said determining BlackRock’s actual position on investing priorities will help to ensure the more than $1.1 billion in additional payments to KPERS by this year’s Legislature is invested wisely to maximize returns – not used to support political priorities.

Independence High School is looking for some information on a vandalism incident at the school.

IHS is looking to identify the suspect involved in the vandalism of the high school building. They are currently working with the Independence Police Department but need the public's help in identifying the suspect. 

If anyone has information on the suspect call the High School office at (620)332-1815 or message them on Facebook.

Even though by some measures the nation is in a recession, Coffeyville is seeing an increase in retail spending.  When Coffeyville City Commissioners meet tomorrow night they will receive a report on the 1% sales tax collections for the city, and it’s good news.  The city has seen an increase in collections for the third month in a row.  For the three month period ending in July the city’s sales tax collections are up 18.65% and 11.32% for the year.

In other business at Tuesday’s City Commission meeting Commissioners will consider entering into an agreement with Spartan Utility Services for a utility pole attachment inventory audit in the city and make an appointment to the Juvenile Community Corrections Board.  Commissioners will; meet at 6:30 Tuesday night in City Hall.

4-H activities are taking center stage today at the Interstate Fair and Rodeo in Coffeyville.  The annual event kicked off yesterday with the Royalty Bar-B-Q dinner and fundraiser auction.  4-H exhibit entries open today as well as livestock check-in.  Then this afternoon judging of exhibits takes place at 1:00, the bake sale at 6:00 and the 4-H and FFA fitting contest at 6:30.  Feature events in the grandstand begin tomorrow night with the LJ Jenkins Bull Riding as well as the carnival midway opening.                         

Detectives with the Montgomery County Sheriff's office conducted a traffic stop on a Chrysler Minivan at 4th and Maple St. in Independence, Ks. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Ashley Linton of Independence, KS and a passenger in the vehicle was identified as Ryan Banning of Independence, KS. During the traffic stop the sheriff's office Police Service Dog, Hector, altered to the odor of narcotics, allowing detectives to search the vehicle where they located methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. The driver took ownership of the narcotics and Banning was released from the scene.

Ashley Linton was taken into custody and was transported to the MG Co Dept of Corrections. Where it was discovered that Linton was in possession of written checks belonging to area businesses and citizens. Detectives contacted the businesses and it was determined that they had been stolen within the past couple of weeks. The investigation into the stolen checks is ongoing.

Linton was booked into DOC on charges of alleged possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of methamphetamine, expired tag, and no insurance. The case has been forwarded to the County Attorney's office for review and prosecu

Caney Police Officers arrest a Caney man on drug charges after a lengthy investigation. Earlier today, Caney PD Officers arrested 30-year-old Spencer Houston Fahler on charges of possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia and the distribution of methamphetamine.

Caney PD says this was a culmination of a lot of hard work and many hours that officers put in to help get drugs off the streets. Caney PD would like to thank the citizens of Caney as well as citizens from Independence and the Independence Police Department who all helped apprehend Fahler.

The new Montgomery County Action Council executive director looks forward to helping the community grow and attract businesses. Riley Lukomski says Montgomery County has several similarities to the county he is coming from in Michigan.

Lukomski says when he visited the area to consider taking the job there were three things he was looking for.  Lukomski says his short-term goal is to learn about the community, its members and their wishes on how they want to see the community grow. His first day as the new director will be September 6^th.

Kansas State Representative Doug Blex called the failure of the “Value Them Both” Amendment to the state constitution “a missed opportunity,” saying he felt the vote failed because the amendment wasn't written as clearly as it should have been.

The amendment failed with only 41 percent of Kansas voters supporting it with 59 percent voting against it. If passed, the amendment would have changed the state constitution to specify that there is no constitutional right to an abortion in Kansas, nor is there a right to have the state fund an abortion. The amendment would have given the legislature the ability to pass stricter abortion laws in the state. Blex said he doesn't sense any appetite in the legislature to take up a similar amendment any time soon.

Law enforcement officers from Parsons Police Department, Independence Police Department, Labette County Sheriff’s office, Iola Police Department, Pittsburg Police Department, Montgomery County Sheriff’s office, and members of the Independence Dispatch team participated in a training course this week called De-Escalation: Principles and Practice.

Three National De-Escalation Training Center instructors conducted the course. Trainers also included David Dyer, the NDTC Chief Operating Officer, Chief Robert Spinks from Parsons, and Independence Chief Jerry Harrision.

Chief Spinks and the Parsons Police Department hosted the event and Chief Harrison coordinated the training.

The Montgomery County Board of Commissioners will meet Monday, August 8^th at 9 am in the lower level of the Judicial Center. They have a full agenda, as the board will meet with the following departments:

The Emergency Manager Rick Whitson will seek approval for the purchase of a UTV. Laura Keller with Montgomery County Action Council will discuss loans. Public Works manager Jim Wright and Maintenance Supervisor, Jeff Phelps will discuss issues in their departments. The Sheriff’s department will meet about inmate housing and the network server. Jason Clubine with the computer department will discuss the county broadband.

In other business board members will be asked to approve 2 neighborhood revitalization projects. The Board will conclude with a discussion about overtime for the County Attorney’s Office.

The agenda is subject to change and all meetings are open to the public.

Applications are open for Kansans to apply to be the eighth Poet Laureate of Kansas. The Kansas Poet Laureate serves a 4-year term and will contribute to the growth and awareness of poetry by presenting their own work and the work of others at public events, readings, workshops, and lectures throughout the state.

Governor Laura Kelly says that the Kansas Poet Laureate program is a shining example of the value of supporting local and statewide arts. The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission sponsors the program.

The current Kansas Poet Laureate is Huascar Medina, a poet, writer, and performer based in Topeka. His message to the next Kansas Poet Laureate is “May you find the words and may your words find others.”

Applicants must submit their application by September 6. Click on the link in the online version of this story at kggfradio.com to access the application or learn more about the program.

The Cherryvale Historical Museum is sponsoring an event on August 20^th at 10 am. Hear the stories of the first farmers that settled in Cherryvale. The information will be presented at the gravesites of Jacob Blaes and Frank Stienberger in the St. Frances Xavier Catholic Cemetery. After the stop at the cemetery, the event continues on to a nearby farm to tour a 1929 Sears & Roebuck Kit Barn where you will learn the history of kit barns. The event will take about an hour and a half. Participants should meet at St. Frances Xavier Catholic Cemetery which is 1 mile west of Cherryvale on the cut-off or CR 5000 and then go  ½ mile south on CR5300.

The Coffeyville Boys and Girls Club after-school applications are now online. Click on the link in the online version of this story at kggfradio.com. This will take you to their new website. You will then hover over the Programs tab at the top of the page, then click on after school, and then select which building you need to apply for.

There is now a calendar of events tab in the top right-hand corner of the new website so you are able to stay in the know.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center wants to help make sure your team is the best they can be. Business & Industry Health at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is offering Workplace Wellness Screenings on Wednesday, August 17^th.

To reserve your time, simply click on the link in the online version of this story at kggfradio.com. After you schedule your time you will get a confirmation email. Choose your time carefully as they cannot be changed once you submit the form and changes cannot be made on the day of the event.

click on the link - here to schedule a time

On the U.S. Senate Floor, a Kansas Senator called for the passage of his new resolution that declares the crisis at the southern border as an invasion. Senator Roger Marshall says the open border has resulted in an unprecedented wave of illegal immigrants entering the country.

This past May, Senator Marshall and four Kansas sheriffs traveled to the Southern Border for briefings, tours, and meetings with border patrol officials in the state of Texas. 

A McPherson woman enters a no-contest plea to charges of second-degree reckless murder and battery on a law enforcement officer.

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says 35-year-old Tina Nicole Brown entered the plea in McPherson County District Court, with sentencing scheduled for November 1^st.

The charges stemmed from an investigation into the death of Kelly G. Peterson in February 2020. The case was investigated by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the McPherson Police Department.

The City of Independence’s Sanitation Department reports having two sanitation trucks down due to mechanical issues. One of the trucks is expected to be returned today. If that happens, then this week’s trash should be picked up by the end of the day Saturday. If the truck is not returned until Friday, it will be Monday before they can get everyone’s trash picked up.

The city is currently working Tuesday’s route. They are using a 1-ton truck; therefore only bagged trash is being removed, as the staff cannot dump the poly carts. The city of Independence Sanitation Department appreciates everyone’s patience and understanding. The city also wants to acknowledge the group of dedicated employees that have been thrown several curve balls lately, but they continue to work through adversities. The good news is that the new trash truck is scheduled to be delivered in the next few weeks.

A Jasper County Missouri teen has been missing since August 1^st. 16-year-old Matthew Messer was last seen wearing jeans and a t-shirt leaving his residence on Fountain Road in Jasper County, Mo. He was possibly headed to Kansas. His brother lives in the Pittsburg or Weir, Kansas area. Messer is reported to be 5’7″, 150lbs with black hair and brown eyes.

If you know Messer and his whereabouts or if you have seen Messer please contact the Jasper County Sheriff’s office at 417-358-8177 or call 911.

The Montgomery County Action Council has named a new Executive Director.  Riley Lukomski will take over as the head of Montgomery County’s economic development organization effective September 6th.

Lukomski will be coming to Kansas from Michigan where he previously served as an economic development manager for Market Van Buren.  He is a graduate of Western Michigan University.  MCAC has been operating with both Jim Kelly and Tom Simpson as interim directors since the departure of former director Trisha Purdon who left to serve the state in an economic development capacity.

A Topeka woman was arrested on suspicion of first-degree murder in Neosho County. Earlier in the week, 41-year-old Nicole Fox was arrested near Iowa St. and 2600 Rd., in Allen County. The arrest is in connection with the homicide that occurred in Chanute in the early morning hours on July 25, in which 34-year-old Blake A Pearson was shot and killed in an alley, east of the 1700 block of S. Highland. The Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrested Fox without incident and was booked into Neosho County Jail.

The KBI, with assistance from the Chanute Police Department, the Neosho County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansas Highway Patrol, and the US Marshal Fox also charged Fox with a separate, unrelated incident, which occurred in Chanute on July 6.

The case will be prosecuted by the Neosho County Attorney. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The investigation is ongoing. No further information has been released at this time.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is hosting a town hall meeting.

The meeting is next Thursday, August 11^th from 11:30am to 1:00pm at CRMC on the fourth level in the conference center. The purpose of this meeting is to review key health indicators for Montgomery County and gather feedback for the 2022 Community Health Needs Assessment programs. Healthcare leaders, social service providers, and community-based organizations are invited to this event.

Space is limited and the event will be socially distanced so anyone interested in attending will need to RSVP by Tuesday.

Independence High School will not allow students to use cell phones in class this year. In addition to cellphones, IHS will also not allow air pods, Bluetooth headphones or smartwatches. Students will be allowed to use them before and after school, at lunch, and in between classes. This means that students can not use their phones for calculators, checking time, music, reading a book, checking their grades or for any other reason during class. Parents can call the office to relay messages to students or reach their students by email.

Principal Kurt Seiler says the difficulties they face with students using phones in the classroom include students taking pictures of other students without permission and posting to social media, taking pictures and videos and posting to TikTok during the school day, watching movies or listening to music while in class and participating in group texts during the day to make fun of other students and teachers. A description of the consequences for not following IHS policies will be provided to students at the beginning of the school year.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, about 37,000 people die in traffic crashes each year across the United States. That’s nearly 101 fatalities every day.

That’s why KDOT has designated October 10^th as the official Put the Brakes on Fatalities Day each year. KDOT sponsors a Poster and Video Contest for Kansas Kids where students can win prizes and learn about traffic safety. The poster contest is for ages 5-13. A total of 18 regional winners will receive a bicycle from the Kansas Turnpike Authority and a helmet from Safe Kids Kansas. The statewide winners will each receive a Kindle Fire Tablet and case, a $50 Amazon gift card, movie passes and $200 for the school, class or booster club.

For Kansas teens in grades 8-12 the winners of the video contest will receive a GoPro, a DJI stabilizer and DJI Drone, and the winner’s school, class or booster club will get $500.

More information is available by clicking on the link here.

A rural Independence man is charged with multiple counts of felony sex crimes against a juvenile.

Brian Michial Murray was charged with 10 counts of alleged aggravated criminal sodomy involving a teenage victim between the ages of 14 and 16 during a span from July 1^st thru July 20^th. He was also charged with 10 counts of alleged aggravated indecent liberties with the same victim between October 1st, 2021, and July 20, 2022. The Montgomery County Attorney’s Office also charged Murray with 3 counts of breach of privacy, he allegedly used a hidden camera to film two victims in a state of undress.

Murray is scheduled for his first court appearance on August 9^th.

The Cherryvale Public Library hosts its annual Block Party on Friday, August 12^th. The celebration will be held from 4 to 7 pm on East Main Street in front of the library.

Information tables for assistance with local health care, banking, school, access to family services, free back-to-school hair cuts, outdoor games and activities including the Kansas National Guard Rock Climbing wall and the Kansas Highway Patrol will be in attendance with their seatbelt convincer. You can listen to the live music DJ, watch the water bucket race with the local Fire Department, get in on the water balloon games and enter the street chalk drawing contest. If you’re hungry then the Library Walking Taco Stand will be ready to serve you.  There will be something for everyone.

Sergeant First Class Heath Robinson PACT Act passed the Senate yesterday, for the second time, with a vote of 86-11.  It will finally extend benefits to vets that were exposed to toxins while serving our country. Beginning with Agent Orange exposure to Post-911 combat veteran burn pits, more than 3.5 million toxic-exposed veterans will get the help they deserve. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran Co-Sponsored the bill.

Moran said that he hopes the President signs the legislation quickly so that Veteran Affairs can get help to those in need right away.

An accident involving a semi pulling a trailer that collided with a train occurred in the early morning hours on S. Walnut in Coffeyville. Officers are currently working the accident and although the semi rolled over and is on the tracks, the Coffeyville Police Department says there were no injuries.

CPD asks that you avoid the area today as it may take time to open back up and clear the roadway. You can use 14^th and Spruce, and then head East to S. Walnut.

The 2022 primary election for the State of Kansas is in the books and the unofficial results are in.

Locally for Montgomery County, Ron Bryce wins the Republican nomination for the District 11 seat, Judge William Cullins wins the District 14 Divison 1 race with 51% of the vote and the District 14 Division 4 race goes to Daniel Reynolds defeating the current County Attorney Lisa Montgomery 54% to 46%.

In Labette County, Vincent Schibi wins the Republican nomination for District 1 County Commission seat and will face Mel Hass who ran opposed as a Democrat. Schibi received 377 votes. Current Commissioner Terry Weidert receives the Republican nomination for District Two, with 794 votes, and will run unopposed in the general election.

Statewide, the “Value them Both” amendment fails with 60% no votes. Governor Laura Kelly will face Attorney General Derek Schmidt in the race for governor in November. Scott Schwab wins the Republican primary for Secretary of State.  Kris Kobach beat Kellie Warren 42.3% to 37.9% in the race for Attorney General.

A Baxter Springs woman is arrested after a police pursuit from Parsons to Pittsburg.

Parsons Police Corporal Kyle Shields was dispatched to a 911 call of a woman saying she was going to be killed. The caller was identified as 39-year-old Amanda Frost, who had her 4-year-old child in the vehicle with her. Frost told Corporal Shields there were men on the Municipal building trying to kill her. She told officers that she and her child are okay to die but wanted to spend one more night together. Cpl. Shields discovered that Frost had a history of narcotics use. Before officers could get her to exit the vehicle Frost fled from the scene.

Officers from the Pittsburg Police Department, Labette County Sheriff’s Department, Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks, and Crawford County Sheriff’s Department were involved in the pursuit. Once inside the city limits of Pittsburg, officers were able to get tire deflation tools deployed to end the pursuit. Frost refused to exit the vehicle and officers had to break a window to get her out. Frost was taken into custody and faces charges of felony fleeing, aggravated child endangerment, driving under the influence of drugs, and multiple driving violations.

As construction moves forward on the new Bartlett soybean crushing facility near Cherryvale the scope of the project is getting increasingly larger.  Alden Harris with Bartlett says the projected amount of beans processed at the facility annually continues to grow with the number of soybeans projected to be processed at the plant close to 45 million bushels annually.

Speaking to the Coffeyville Rotary Club today Harris said the quantity of the jobs at the plant is surpassed by the quality of the jobs with extremely good benefits.

Construction continues on the facility located on Highway 160, one mile east of Highway 169.

The City of Independence participates in the FEMA CRS program that requires the city to manage the floodplain and help reduce and avoid flood damage to insurable property. By participating in the program, citizens in the floodplain can receive a reduction in their flood insurance.

If your property is in the 100-year floodplain, the following activity requires a building permit and State of Kansas-FEMA approval.

Installation of a Fence; Dirt work that could change the flow of water; Adding on to your home; Building a garage or shed; Remodeling, new siding, or a new roof.

For inquiries about the 100-year floodplain, please get in touch with the floodplain manager by calling 620-332-2528 or visit kggfradio.com for the phone number or click on the link to send an email.

The City of Independence announces that the project on Main Street has been finished. Downtown Main Street is now open with the exception of a turn lane that has yet to be painted at 8^th Street.

City Engineer John Garris says they appreciate the patience of the community and especially the small businesses located in the construction zone.

For the 24^th month in a row, Kansas’ tax receipts exceeded the estimates that are used by the Legislature to set budgets for the state’s expenditures like schools, roads, law enforcement, and health care. July taxes surpassed expectations by $127.6 million with $586.2 million collected.

Higher-than-anticipated corporate income tax collections reflect a continued optimism that corporate profits will remain stable in the new fiscal year. Tax collections across the board were all higher than estimates, including sales tax receipts that were 39.4% more than expected.

The link for the complete July 2022 Revenue Report can be found in the online version of the story at kggfradio.com

Guests at this month's Business Over Breakfast will include representatives from Schenck Insurance, USD 445 and Midland Theater.  Doors open at 7:30 am at Best Western in Coffeyville tomorrow.

Network with Chamber members and be a part of the discussion about local issues, hear from local newsmakers and get a hot breakfast too. Speakers include Jason Owens with Schenck Insurance; Dr. Craig Correll, Lora Stalford, and Halie O’Connor with USD 445 and Darrel Harbaugh and Lisa Scheck with Midland Theater.

 Schenck Insurance is the sponsor for this month’s Business Over Breakfast.

A panel discussion on Chronic Wasting Disease will be part of the two public meetings on Thursday, August 4, and Friday, August 5 with the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks Commission Meeting. The public can attend in person at the Dillon Nature Center in Hutchinson or virtually via Zoom or watch live a video/stream.

The Chronic Wasting Disease discussion will start from 9 am to 11 am on the 4th. The commissioners will also discuss several items including Turkey regulations, commercial harvest of mussels, special length and creel limits; possession requirements; hook requirements; commercial bait permit exemptions, and trout water updates. They will also review recent changes to KDWP's pronghorn application and lottery procedures.

To see the full agenda or access either of the links to the meeting visit the online version of this story at KGGFRADIO.com. 

https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission/Instructions-to-Participate-in-Virtual-Meeting

https://ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission/Watch-Meetings-Here

The Local Food Purchase Assistance Cooperative Agreement Program will use the $2.5 million awarded to the Kansas Department of Agriculture to purchase and distribute Kansas-grown and –processed foods to underserved communities and families across Kansas through the state’s existing distribution network. The 3 food banks in Kansas that serve the food insecure are in every one of the 105 counties in Kansas.

KDA will also work with agricultural stakeholder groups to develop a network of producers and ensure that food purchased by the grant is widely distributed across rural and urban communities impacted by food insecurity.

Governor Laura Kelly said that our farmers and ranchers feed the nation – and this agreement will help them also feed their neighbors.

The polls open tomorrow morning at 7:00am for the primary elections in Kansas.

Primary races for Kansas Governor, Secretary of State, Attorney General and Treasurer can all be voted on, as well as local races for State Senate, House and county commission. The No State Constitutional Right to Abortion and Legislative Power to Regulate Abortion Amendment also known as “Value them Both” will up for vote as well. You must be registered to vote and have a valid ID with you when you vote.

KGGF will provide election coverage tomorrow night starting at around 7:30pm on the Mighty 690.

One is arrested and drugs and cash are seized after a search in Cherokee County.

Sheriff's Deputies executed a search warrant as part of an investigation into suspected drug activity late last week. During the search, methamphetamine with a street value of nearly $20,000.00, was seized. Yesterday evening, the suspect who had evaded law enforcement over the weekend, was taken into custody. 59-year-old Timothy Sargent is being held in the Cherokee County Jail without bond on allegations of distributing methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and marijuana. 

This is the second time this summer Sargent has been arrested. He was arrested after a traffic stop and had methamphetamine and a considerable amount of cash seized at the time of that arrest.

An Elk City woman is killed in a one-vehicle rollover accident on County Road 5600, also known as Sweeney Hill Drive and Chism Lane, Northwest of Independence.

Yesterday evening, 40-year-old Amber Beckenholdt's 2003 Audi A4 left the road and rolled over in the ditch just before 7:00pm. When officers with the Kansas Highway Patrol arrived at the scene Beckenholdt had already passed away from injuries sustained in the wreck.

Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade says she was not wearing a seat belt and that the investigation is still ongoing.

The Board of Commissioners met with Emergency Preparedness Director Rick Whitson today and gave him permission to obtain bids on carpeting the entire basement of the Judicial Center.

They also voted to have Legacy Funeral Home Holdings of Kansas, otherwise known as Webb and Roderick Funeral Home, as the primary contractor responsible for picking up bodies as the county needs. Chairperson Bever went over some of the details of the contract.

A copy of the contract is on file at the clerk's office for those who would like to read it in its' entirety.

Lake Tanko in Cherryvale is no longer on the Warning List with the Kansas Department of Health and Environment for an blue-green algae bloom. KDHE announced Friday that Lake Tanko is now safe for pets and livestock. There are now no SE Kansas Lakes on the Warning List.

For a full list of Kansas lakes click on the link in the online version of this story at kggfradio.com

https://maps.kdhe.state.ks.us/habkscounty/

Caney Police Officers conduct a search warrant in the 300 block of North Bradley St. in Caney.

As a result of the warrant, 3 occupants are charged with possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. 58-year-old Darla Mae Breese was also charged with distributing methamphetamine and other drug charges. 31-year-old Gabriel Marceleno was also charged with distribution of methamphetamines. While 36-year-old Christopher Love received an additional charge of child endangerment.

The Caney Police Department has charged 39-year-old James Jones of Independence with alleged possession of meth, marijuana, and paraphernalia. Jones was also charged with Distribution of meth, opiates, opium, narcotics, or stimulant; interference with a Law Enforcement Officer; falsely reporting information intending to obstruct an investigation.

This resulted from the search warrant executed last week in the 100 block of N. Spring.

Last Week at the intersection of 18^th St. and Santa Fe Ave. Chanute Police Department made contact with a person with an outstanding warrant.

32-year-old Timothy Fisher of Chanute was arrested and after a search, Fisher was also charged with alleged distribution of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia.

The report was Neosho County Attorney’s Office for review and consideration of charges being filed.

Join the Coffeyville Police Department for “National Night Out” tomorrow from 5:30 to 8 pm at the Aquatic Center at 1906 N Buckeye. There will be free swimming, music, DARE, Bouncy House, Police and Fire Trucks, Mock Jail Cell, Cotton Candy, and games, and much more.