Touch of Life Ministries in Coffeyville is raising money to replace the roof of their building. Operator Alicia Melton says they are needing to raise $10,000 for the project.

Touch of Life Ministries has already raised $3,000 of their $10,000 goal. Last winter, they opened up a warming center in Coffeyville and Melton says with a fixed roof they would be able to offer more.

Melton says they need to raise the $10,000 by August 16^th. To donate call (918)559-8526, mail to 501 E 9th, Coffeyville KS 67337, deliver to 201 Eldridge, Coffeyville KS or find them on Paypal at 2019.tolm@gmail.com.

 State and local dignitaries gather in Independence for a groundbreaking ceremony for the new addition to the Labette Health facility.

 The ceremony was held on Wednesday, July 31, 2024, to mark the official start of the construction of Phase Two of the Labette Health facility on Peter Pan Road. Governor Laura Kelly was on hand for the ground breaking. Kelly addressed the crowd, noting that Independence and Montgomery County have come a long way since losing Mercy Hospital in 2015.

Kelly says the City of Independence and Labette Health have done a lot to create momentum in rural health care in Kansas.

The planned construction includes a more than 12,000 square foot addition and a 1,000 square foot renovation that will remodel the existing ER and add a new rural health clinic and a visiting specialist clinic. The current facility opened on July 4, 2017.

 The U.S. Corps of Engineers is looking to buy land near Beaver Lake in northwest Arkansas.

 Landowners around the lake gathered on Tuesday to hear what the USACE had to say about buying their land in order to protect the lake. The Corps is hoping to use the land in order to keep water quality high at Beaver Lake, which is the source of drinking water for one in five Arkansans. A representative from the Corps said in order to keep the quality of the water good, a vegetative buffer is needed around the lake.

Landowners say they are willing to listen but, the price must be right before they will sell. So far, no sales have been made.

 The Kansas Department of Commerce announces the first regional water project grant awarded by the state in more than a decade.

 The $1 million Community Development Block Grant was awarded to help the city of Caney construct a water line to connect to the Coffeyville water system. Caney City Administrator Kelly Zellner says the city is also in line for approval of a low-interest loan for the project.

The total cost of the project is expected to be around $7.8 million. The planned pipeline will run from Caney's water storage along Highway 166 to Cline Road where it will connect to Coffeyville's 12-inch water main.

 The Nowata County Commissioners on Monday passed a resolution of the approval of the purchase of new radios for First Responders in the County. 

 Nowata County Clerk Kay Spurgeon says the resolution transferring the radios to the county was never actually approved.

Spurgeon says the radios were initially put on inventory when first received but there was no resolution detailing the transfer of the radios from the County to the first responders.

The motion passed unanimously. 

 A Moundridge toddler is rescued after falling into a twelve inch PVC pipe.

 The 14-month-old boy named Bentley fell into the 10 foot deep open pipe on Sunday afternoon. Emergency crew were called and took about 20 minutes to pull the baby from the pipe. Rescue crews constructed a make-shift catch pole using a smaller PVC pipe to reach into the hole and pull the child up, returning him to his parents.

Bentley was dirty, but unharmed after his ordeal.

 Students in USD 446 in Independence take a step closer to the new school year.

 Central registration takes place today and tomorrow at Independence High School. This is the final step in registration for students for the upcoming school year. Parents should have already had the chance to finish the online part of the process. However, for those who have not completed the online part of registration, computers will be available for that purpose. Director of learning Services Kellie Puderbaugh says the purpose of central registration is to simplify the process for parents.

Puderbaugh adds that those who are new to the district will need to bring birth certificates and immunization records as well. Central registration takes place from noon to 7pm today and from 9am to 6pm tomorrow.

 A Pineville, MO, woman pleads guilty in federal court to charges of kidnapping and murder.

 44-year-old Amber Waterman entered her guilty plea yesterday July 30, 2024, in connection to the abduction and death of Ashley Bush of Gravette, AR, and her unborn child. As part of the plea, Waterman admitted to using a false name to lure Bush into a meeting in hopes of claiming the woman's unborn child as her own.

According to federal statutes, Waterman is subject to a mandatory sentence of life in federal prison without the possibility of parole. Sentencing is set for October 15^th.

 A passenger car becomes stuck on railroad tracks and is struck by a train.

 Around 9:30 last night, a passenger car attempted to cross a C-P-K-C railroad crossing in Neosho, MO, and became high-centered on the tracks. The driver of the car was able to safely escape the vehicle, but authorities were unable to warn railroad officials in time to stop the on-coming southbound train. The train struck the car, sending it spinning off the tracks.

The debris from the accident was quickly cleared and the train was able to continue on its way about an hour after the accident occurred.

There were no reported injuries.

 A Bartlesville man loses his life in a single vehicle crash in Washington County.

 53-year-old David Johnson was traveling eastbound on 1500 Road about 1 ½ miles east of Dewey just after 5pm yesterday. Johnson's 2015 Jeep Grand Cherokee left the roadway for an unknown reason, striking a concrete barrier. Johnson was ejected from the vehicle during the accident. The Jeep then caught fire.

Johnson was pronounced deceased at the scene. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Preparations are being made for the upcoming improvements coming to Coffeyville's tennis courts.

Light fixtures and poles at LeClere Park tennis courts are being temporarily removed ahead of court updates. Poles will be refinished and installed with new LED lighting after court updates are complete.

The Coffeyville City Commission voted unanimously at their last meeting to make improvements to the park's courts.

Registration is open for the 2024 Coffeyville Kiwanis Buck-Out.

The event will be on Thursday, August 15^th during the Interstate Fair and Rodeo. Check-in is at 5:30pm and the event starts at 6:00pm. The cost to register is $50 per rider. Area businesses can sponsor riders, which can be four years and up but must be an employee or child of an employee. Registration is due by Friday, August 9^th. All riders will ride one time, the top 10 riders will receive food coupons and then ride a second time. The top four riders receive a buckle.

For any questions contact Coffeyville Kiwanis Club President Jana Kastler at (620)252-5521. To register either mail the registration form and a check or sign up via email and bring the check the night of the event. The registration form can be found on Kastler's Facebook page and a link can be found here.

With a heat advisory in effect for most of the week, outdoor pets need to keep as cool as possible. Coffeyville Friends of Animals Becky Barnhart says there are ways to make sure they have cooler drinking water.

Make sure there is plenty of shade in the backyard for any outside pets as well, especially a cool spot to lay down. If natural shade isn't available a tarp can be hung to provide some relief from the sun.

CVR Energy releases its second-quarter reports.

They are reporting a decline in net income for the quarter compared to the same period last year.  CVR attributes the decrease to lower refining margins and reduced production due to a refinery fire at their Wynnewood, OK, facility. CEO David Lamp says processes at Wynnewood are back at full capacity. While the company posts adjusted earnings per share of nine cents and adjusted EBITDA of $87 million, these figures are below the previous year's performance.

Despite the challenges, CVR Energy maintains shareholder returns with a 50 cent per share cash dividend, while its subsidiary, CVR Partners, declares a $1.90 per common unit cash distribution.  

Eleven animals are seized while executing a search warrant in rural Montgomery County. Sheriff deputies executed the warrant at 109 East Bell Street in Wayside in connection with an animal cruelty investigation.

Nine dogs and two horses were removed from the property, all exhibiting signs of malnourishment and injuries. Undersheriff Chris Williams says deputies took custody of the animals and arranged for their treatment by a local veterinarian.

The animals were then transported to a predetermined location for continued care. This case remains under investigation, and further details will be provided as they become available. 

 Fire crews respond to a major fire at a Tulsa apartment complex.

 The 9-1-1 calls began to come in around 6:30 yesterday evening from the Windsail Apartments near 71^st and Mingo in Tulsa.

Significant damage was done to the building and several residents were displaced from their homes. No residents were injured but two firefighters were transported to a nearby hospital for heat-related stress.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

 A pair of orphaned black bear cubs are settling into their new home at the Sedgwick County Zoo in Wichita.

 The two cubs were found in Oregon after their mother was killed when they were only three months old. Since they were unable to survive on their own, they were taken in by Wildlife Safari in Winston, Oregon.

The Sedgwick County Zoo arranged to take the cubs after the Zoo's black bear Mitch passed away last year, due to age-related issues.

The male cub is named Takelma after the Native American tribe that lived where the cubs were found. The female is named Sama, which means 'summer in the Takelma language. The cubs are not yet on public display but zoo goers might catch a glimpse of the pair during their supervised outdoor exercise time in the bear enclosure.

 Osage County commissioners convene for a brief meeting in Pawhuska.

 At this week's meeting, Commissioners acknowledged payments and invoices dealing with construction on the courthouse annex and remodeling. Commissioners Charlie Cartwright and Anthony Hudson say they will soon have an update on the work's progress.

In other business agreements were signed with the nutrition department and the Treasurer's annual report was signed.

 At this week's Nowata County Commission meeting, County Clerk Kay Spurgeon informs commissioners that county expenditures have triggered a Single Audit Requirement from Oklahoma Emergency Management.

 Spurgeon says the Audit is triggered when the county spends more than $750,000 in grant money in one fiscal year.

Pending the outcome of the audit, it is possible the county may owe money to the state. The county has nine months to complete the audit.

 The Montgomery County Commission holds a brief meeting with a short agenda.

 The primary action item on this week's agenda was the need for a new copier in the Register of Deeds Office. Register of Deeds Marilyn Calhoun says the copier is a vital part of what her office does.

Computer Department Director Jason Clubine says the copier can't be replaced by one just off the shelf. The replacement needs to be able to handle the work load which means the vendor needs to be able to fix it when it breaks. Clubine recommends selecting a Coffeyville company.

Commissioners approved the purchase using money from the tech fund. Also on yesterday's meeting agenda was an executive session, where no action was taken.

 The Independence Police Department is asking residents to check their surveillance cameras for possible video of some weekend thefts.

 Residents in the 900 block of North 6^th Street, the 200 block of East Sycamore, the 1300 block of Irving, or the surrounding areas are asked to check any security video they might have that was taken on Friday night/Saturday morning between midnight and 4am. I-P-D is looking for video of any individuals on foot in that area in connection to a series of car break-ins and thefts.

I-P_d reminds everyone to take their keys out of their cars; remove bags, backpacks and valuables; roll up car windows; and lock your vehicle. Police believe all of the cars that were broken into were unlocked at the time.

Anyone with information about last weekend's break-ins should contact the Independence Police.

 A traffic stop in Cherokee County Monday night leads to the arrest of a Pittsburg man.

 Just after 9:00pm, a Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputy stopped a motorcycle in Weir. During the stop, large amount of meth and pure fentanyl were located and seized.

 The motorcycle operator, 25-year-old Alex Colton Harman, was arrested and transported to the Cherokee County Jail. He is being held on charges of possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl, felony possession of drug paraphernalia, and several moving vehicle violations.

 Cherokee County Chief Deputy Nate Jones says the street value of the drugs is approximately $10,000.00.

 Two people from Vera, OK, are arrested on suspicion of child abuse.

 41-year-old Johnny Lee James and 42-year-old Kayla Sharee Clark were arrested on Sunday after sheriff's deputies were called to their rural Washington County home for possible child abuse or neglect of a 15-year-old girl. Upon arrival at the home, deputies found the teenager tied up to a tree in the yard and learned she had been sleeping on a piece of carpet. The girl was taken to a hospital where she was treated for injuries. The Department of Human Services – Child Welfare division took the child into the state’s custody.

Both James and Clark are being held on $500,000 bonds. Their next court date is set for tomorrow when formal charges are expected to be filed.

Tickets are on sale right now for the Midland Theater's annual fundraiser.

Vaude in the 'Ville is returning to the Spencer/Rounds Theatre on the campus of Coffeyville Community College, and Midland Board Member Wyatt Starnes says it should be a great show.

Coffeyville native Lindsay Oyler Goldapp will host the show and introduce local talent during the Vaudeville-style show. Tickets are $30 and only a limited number are available. Tickets can be purchased online, through the Chamber of Commerce or Coffeyville's Reawakening. A link to purchase is available HERE.

 As the weather heats up once again, it's important to take care of ourselves and finds ways to stay cool and keep hydrated.

 It's also important to remember our four-legged friends during the heat. Becky Barnhardt with Coffeyville Friends of Animals reminds us that hot surfaces can mean painful paws for dogs.

Barnhardt says bring your pets inside if possible. And, if you can't, make sure outside animals have plenty of shade and cool, clean water to drink.

 The Montgomery County Sheriff's Office serves a warrant on animal cruelty charges.

 Undersheriff Christopher Williams says several animals were seized when the warrant was served.

Williams says the county will take over care for the animals until the courts decided what should be done with them.

This is a breaking new story. KGGF News will have more details as they become available.

 The Kansas Department of Transportation announces the approval of bids for road work in southeast Kansas.

 KDOT approved funding of $412,000 for mill overlay in Cherokee County on US-166 from the US-36/K-26 junction to the Kansas/Missouri state line. Nearly half a million dollars was approved for 10 miles of pavement marking on US-69 near Pittsburg. In Montgomery County, repair work totaling $480,000 will be done on US-166 near the Chautauqua County line.

 The Parsons Police Department is hosting a community forum tomorrow (tonight) at the Parsons High School Theater.

 Parsons residents are invited to learn more about their police department at this event. The forum will be moderated by Police2Peace.org. That group is providing funding to train members of the Parsons Police Department in techniques in de-escalation and outreach in an effort to increase two-way communication between police and the public. Police2Peace is funded through the U.S. Department of Justice.

The community is invited to attend the forum on Tuesday night at 6pm at 3030 Morton street in Parsons.

 Two northwest Arkansas men faces attempted murder charges in connection to a Rogers stabbing.

 Mischel Maritza Carasquero-Romero and Maikel Ruiz-Alvarado have been arrested for the attempted murder of a 19-year-old Rogers man that occurred last Saturday. Bond has not been set for either man. The victim remains in critical condition.

 Police in Okmulgee have arrested three people in connection to a apparent abduction that took place late last week.

 Arrested were Sean Lunney, Brianna Nohmer, and Jaysen Lawson.

Authorities believe they are involved in an incident that occurred last week in which deputies from the Okmulgee Sheriff's Office responded to complaints of a man jumping into traffic near the Highway 266 Deep Fork River Bridge. The badly injured male said he had been abducted, bound with duct tape, and then forced to jump off the bridge.

Authorities say the investigation is ongoing.

Police in Sand Springs, OK, identify the body found on a river bank near Sand Springs on July 20.

The Sand Springs Police along with the Medical Examiner have identified the body as that of 29-year-old Rebecca N. Canida of Sand Springs.

The cause of death is still being investigated but officials say foul play is not suspected.

 A Wichita area collectibles store is asking area collectors to be on the lookout for stolen cards.

 Arena Hobbies in Wichita reported the theft of over $7,000 in collectible cards on Friday morning. The store owners say the stolen cards include high end One Piece singles, vintage Pokemon holos, XY Era Pokemon cards, and many Magic: The Gathering singles. Between 600 to 700 cards were stolen in total. Anyone with information on the stolen cards should contact Wichita Police.

 The U.S. Attorney's office in Kansas announces the indictment of a North Korean national in connection to a ransomware attack against a Kansas hospital.

 The indictment against Rim Jong Hyok came down late last week. The U.S. Attorney for the District of Kansas says the Department of justice has identified 17 victims of the hacking campaign was conducted by a hacking group known as Andarial. The FBI says Rim is also accused of targeting U.S. government offices and military bases. He may be difficult top bring to justice, however, since federal authorities believe Rim is still in North Korea.

The justice Department says ransomware attacks have cost U.S. companies tens of billions of dollars. Authorities have not specified which Kansas hospital was targeted in the attacks.

 The Kansas Bureau of Investigation and the Kansas Department of Corrections are investigating the weekend death of an inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility.

 Staff at the facility found 36-year-old Matthew Dean Warren unresponsive in his cell on Sunday afternoon, July 28, 2024. Those on scene began life-saving measures but were unable to revive Warren. His cause of death will be determined by an independent autopsy.

Warren was just two months into a ten year sentence for theft and burglary in Reno County.

 Friday, Aug. 2, is the last day to apply for voter registration in order to be eligible to vote in the Aug. 27, Runoff Republican Primary for County Commissioner District 2 and Collinsville Special School Election, Washington County Election Board Secretary Yvonne House said.

 House says persons who are United States Citizens, residents of Oklahoma and at least 17 ½ years old are eligible to apply for voter registration. However, you must be at least 18 years old to vote.

Applications must be received by the County Election Board or postmarked no later than midnight, Aug. 2. Applications may also be submitted to any motor vehicle agency that is also an official voter registration agency by the submission deadline. 

Applicants will be notified in writing when their application has been processed.

Approved voters will receive a Voter Identification Card in the mail. Some may receive a letter that explains the reason or reasons the application was not approved. House said those who do not receive a response within 30 days of submitting their application should contact the County Election Board office immediately.

The Washington County Election Board reminds voters that applications must be approved by the County Election Board Secretary in order to vote.

Registered voters who have moved to Washington County from a different county or state will need to complete a new Voter Registration Application in order to be eligible for elections in Washington County. If you have moved within the county and need to update your address, you may make changes online using the OK Voter Portal or complete a Voter Registration Application.

Voter Registration Applications can be downloaded from the State Election Board website. You may also complete a form at your County Election Board. Most post offices, tag agencies, and public libraries have applications available upon request.

The Washington County Election Board is located at 401 S. Johnstone Ave., Suite 4. Regular office hours are from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday. For questions, please contact the Election Board at 918-337-2850 or washingtoncounty@elections.ok.gov.

 The City of Independence is set to expand the hours of legal alcohol in the common consumption areas of downtown Independence.

 Executive Director of Independence Main Street Tabitha Snodgrass says the year-old ordinance has caused no significant problems.

The current hours of legal consumption will be expanded to 9am to 2am Mondays through Saturdays.

 A boating accident on Friday morning on Table Rock Lake claims the life of a 6-year-old boy.

 The boy was riding a kneeboard behind a boat around 11:15 on Friday morning when he fell off of the board. The driver of the boat 31-year-old Bethany Roy of Carthage, attempted to turn the boat to pick up the victim. The victim swam toward the rear of the boat and was caught in the propeller while the boat was still in reverse. The child was pronounced deceased after the incident.

 Bartlesville Police are investigating the discovery of a body on Friday.

 Deputy Chief of Police Andrew Ward says, at this point, foul play is not suspected.

The body was found in the 200 block of southwest Seminole Avenue in Bartlesville. Police continue to investigate. No names have yet been released.

 A Good Samaritan is killed while trying to help in a tragic northeast Kansas accident.

 The accident occurred on I-35 just outside of Merriam, Kansas, on Saturday afternoon around 2 o'clock. A vehicle driven by 25-year-old Paula Baird of Kansas City, KS, was stalled in one of the southbound lanes due to a previous accident when it was struck from behind by a 2010 Jeep Liberty driven by 21-year-old Jocelin Laynez-Flores from Guatemala. 17-year-old Benjamin Van Buskirk of Olathe was a passenger in a third, non-involved vehicle. Van Buskirk had exited his vehicle in an attempt to render aid when he was struck by the Jeep and killed. Baird, the driver of the stalled vehicle, was seriously injured and taken to KU Medical Center for treatment.

The Montgomery County Fair wraps up today with a few final events.

Over the weekend, several livestock shows took place including the goat and sheep show.

Ryan Page judged this year's 4-H show and shared lots of advice and tips to those showing animals.

Coming up today will be the buyer's supper at the fairgrounds followed by the presentation of awards at the sale ring. The livestock premium sale will be the final event of the Montgomery County 4-H Fair tonight at 7 p.m. in Independence.

Another heat wave arrives today for the four states.

An excessive heat warning is in place today through Thursday night for most of eastern Kansas including Montgomery County.

Portions of northeast Oklahoma including Washington County are also included in the excessive heat warning. The rest of the four-state area is under a heat advisory. The heat index is expected to range from 108-111 for most of this week. Those working outside should take frequent breaks and stay hydrated by drinking a cup of cool water every 20 minutes, and watch for any signs of heat illness.

A Neodesha man is arrested in a murder investigation in Coffeyville.

41-year-old Ryan J. McCullough has been taken into custody for the charge of murder in the second degree. On May 5^th, McCullough was involved in an altercation with the victim, 63-year-old David L. Wintjen, who passed a few days later. After an investigation by the Coffeyville Police Department, a warrant was issued for McCullough’s arrest.

The investigation is ongoing; anyone with information should call CPD at (620)252-6160 or remain anonymous by calling the Crime Tip Hotline at (620)252-6133.  

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment issues a boil water advisory for Caney.

The advisory will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. Failure to maintain required water pressure may put the system at risk for bacterial contamination.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice. Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water. Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker. If tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears. Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces.

The City of Coffeyville begins cleaning water lines with free chlorine residual.

The City began today and will go all through August. During this period of time, residents may notice some chlorine tastes and odors in the water. There is no cause for alarm, and this is being done purely as a precautionary measure, and as part of their ongoing efforts to provide residents with the safest possible drinking water.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment routinely recommends that public water supplies that utilize a combined chlorine residual perform an annual cleaning of the water distribution system with a free chlorine residual. If residents have any questions they can call the Municipal Water Treatment Plant at (620)252-6150 between 7:00am and 3:00pm Monday through Friday.

 The Parsons Police Department is hosting a community forum on Tuesday night at the Parsons High School Theater.

 Parsons residents are invited to learn more about their police department at this event. The forum will be moderated by Police2Peace.org. That group is providing funding to train members of the Parsons Police Department in techniques in de-escalation and outreach in an effort to increase two-way communication between police and the public. Police2Peace is funded through the U.S. Department of Justice.

The community is invited to attend the forum on Tuesday night at 6pm at 3030 Morton street in Parsons.

 A former Public Works Director in Centerton, Arkansas, is sentenced to 60 months probation for using city funds personal purchases.

 Court records indicate that Ricky Dale Hudson was sentenced after pleading guilty to using more than $60,000 of city money to purchase items such as a drill press, a folding truck bed, and a cover utility box for himself using city funds.

Hudson spent about half of the money on Amazon-dot-com and half on city credit cards, with another $4,000 spent at AutoZone.

Hudson resigned his position in 2023 after being found intoxicated at work.

Photo courtesy Benton County, Arkansas, Jail

 Six southeast Kansas counties are among the forty counties state-wide to receive grants from the  Kansas Rural Opportunity Zone or ROZ Local Marketing Grants.

 Governor Laura Kelly and Secretary of Commerce David Toland made the announcement Friday, July 26, 2024. The funds are intended to help counties market the unique ROZ financial incentives available to new residents: Student loan repayment assistance and/or 100% state income tax credit. Funding will assist the counties and local partner organizations as they develop customized marketing strategies best suited for their community.

Crawford and Montgomery counties received $10,000 each, while the counties of Elk, Labette, Chautauqua, and Greenwood will each receive $5,000 in funds.

 There are lots of activities happening in downtown Independence Saturday morning.

 The Farmer's Market will be up and running and the sidewalk sale will also be going on. Residents and visitors will also have another chance to donate to “Stuff the Bus.” Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says it's a great chance to help out the city's school kids.

Stuff-the-Bus Organizer Andy Taylor says kids who are prepared for school are more engaged and students who are engaged with learning perform better.

Those who wish to donate can donate supplies, cash, or by check Saturdaymorning in downtown Independence

 A Derby man entered into a consent judgment with the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office for allegedly practicing law without a license.

 Court documents show that Andrew Wells met with a woman at his office in Goddard. The woman then hired him as legal representation in a dispute with the Social Security Administration. After the woman asked Wells to stop representing her, he refused to return documents she had given him. Investigators discovered that the Kansas Attorney Registration Office had never listed Andrew Wells as a licensed attorney in the state of Kansas.

Wells was fined $60,000 in civil penalties and agreed to pay the victim $500 in restitution.

 There's good financial news for the City of Independence.

 The City's recent audit of their finances by Gordon CPA comes back clean. Chief Auditor Shawn Gordon tells the Independence City Commission that the audit looks good.

Other items of business at this week's commission meeting include a proclamation making August 3^rd Carrie Ingalls Swanzey Day and a change to a city ordinance extending the hours of legal alcohol consumption in the common consumption area of downtown Independence.

 The Kansas Bureau of Investigation says a 25-year-old man was shot and killed in an officer-involved shooting in Salina on Wednesday.

 The Salina Police Department was called to the scene around 7:15pm on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, where they encountered several subject. Some of those present had outstanding warrants and were taken into custody. Police then learned that another man – 25-year-old Jesse Wray – was inside a detached garage. Officers deployed a K-9 officer and gave verbal commands for Wray to exit the garage. Wray refused and threatened to shoot officers if they entered. The Salina SWAT Team and the Kansas Highway Patrol were called in to assist.

Officers on the scene noticed smoke coming from the garage and opened the door. A woman then exited, followed by Wray. Gunfire was exchanged and Wray was hit. Wray was pronounced dead at 8:45pm. The woman was taken to a nearby hospital where she was treated and released. No officers were injured in the incident. The KBI is investigating.

 The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks has a new tool at its disposal for searching the murky waters of Kansas lakes and waterways.

 The agency recently acquired two Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicles capable of searching with sonar. KDWP plans to use one device for the eastern part of the state and the other for the western part. The ROV is equipped with a camera, lights, and a mechanical arm in addition to the sonar. Game wardens say the new device was used in a recovery operation last May, greatly aiding recovery efforts. Officers from KDWP spent part of their day on Wednesday training on the new device at El Dorado Lake, where they were able to locate a mesh cage hidden in the water.

 The Miami, OK, Chief of Police is under investigation for alleged official misconduct.

 The City has placed Chief of Police Thomas “Hightower” Anderson on paid administrative leave. City administration has also engaged the efforts of an outsourced independent investigator to conduct a full, fair, and competent investigation into allegations against Anderson. Anderson will remain on leave until the investigation is concluded.

The City has not indicated what the specific allegations are against Anderson, stating only that they relate to personnel matters.

 Two men are in custody following a Wednesday evening altercation in a southeast Kansas park.

 Just after 6pm on Wednesday, July 24, 2024, Galena Police and Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies were called to Schermerhorn Park Creek in Galena after reports of a verbal exchange between a large group of individuals. Reports indicated that a suspect had assaulted park goers and their children by brandishing a weapon and then fleeing the scene.

Police in Baxter Springs were able to locate the suspect and stopped his vehicle. Arrested on the scene were 23-year-old Skylar Matthew Howey of Commerce, OK, and 34-year-old Anthony Wayne Tiger of Baxter Springs. Howey is charged with multiple counts of Aggravated Assault with a deadly weapon and aggravated endangering a child and possession of a firearm while under the influence of alcohol. Tiger is charged with Possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Both men were taken to the Cherokee County Jail.

The Parsons Police Department responds to a report of a possible shooting.

At around 2:00am at the Prairie West Apartments, responding officers observed a suspicious vehicle speeding toward Labette Health. The officer followed the vehicle which pulled up to the ER. The driver, 26-year-old Kenyon L. Best, told the officer he had accidentally shot the victim. Officers retrieved a 9mm handgun and other evidence that suggested Best had accidentally shot the gun at the Prairie West Apartments and the bullet struck the victim who was nearby. The victim is a 24-year-old man from Columbus, who appears to be friends with Best.

Under Kansas law, a serious injury caused by the reckless discharge of a firearm is classified as an aggravated assault, which is a felony. Officers found evidence that Best had also been drinking. A second charge of possession of a firearm while intoxicated was also added. The victim was treated at the ER and then life-flighted to Freeman Hospital and was last known to be in critical but stable status.

The Chautauqua County and Wilson County Fair along with a number of other county fairs continue the rest of the week and into the weekend. KGGF was live from both Chautauqua and Wilson County Fair talking to 4H members about their fair projects.

The Bucket Calf and Cattle Show is tonight in Chautauqua County with the Lamb and Goat show tomorrow morning. In Wilson County, the Goat and Dairy Cattle Show was this afternoon with the Sheep Show this evening and the Beef and Swine Show on Saturday. You can listen to both live broadcasts below.

Chautauqua County Fair

Wilson County Fair

 A Wichita man is in custody after an 11-month-old baby is found in a canal near a Wichita interstate.

 Authorities in Sedgwick County say Vincent James Perez has been arrested in connection to a toddler found wandering alone in a canal near I-135 and Pawnee Street yesterday afternoon. The child was taken to a nearby hospital for evaluation after being spotted by a driver. Vickie Wyant says she thought the child was a doll until she saw it move. Then she pulled over and called 9-1-1.

Perez has been charged with aggravated child endangerment and aggravated battery. The child has been placed in protective custody.

Photo courtesy Kansas Department of Corrections

 Candidates for offices in Montgomery County face off over issues.

 Candidates for County Clerk, County Commission, and County Sheriff sparred last night at the candidates' forum in Independence.

Candidate for Montgomery County Commissioner for District #2 Charlotte Scott-Schmidt says the most important issues for her are property taxes and retaining good employees.

Candidate Phil Clubine agrees those issues are important, but says the County must control spending.

In the race for County Clerk, Candidate Misty Wilson says the three and a half years she has spent as Deputy Clerk give her the experience needed to step into a new role.

Candidate Ami Standridge says her strong sense of values will help her serve the people of Montgomery County.

In the contest for Montgomery County Sheriff, incumbent candidate Ron Wade says a drop in crime shows his approach to law enforcement works.

Candidate Bobby Dierks says he is a man who works for the people.

To view the complete candidate forum, see the City of Independence Facebook page.

 The Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrests a man who fired multiple shots in a Minneapolis, KS, park.

 On Wednesday, July 24, 2024 around 11:30am Wichita Police arrested 46-year-old Artemas Thor Peck of Minneapolis as he was released from Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Peck was taken into custody on an Ottawa County warrant for attempted capital murder and attempted second-degree murder stemming from a June 22^nd incident near the Minneapolis swimming pool. Peck is accused of firing a gun at officers during the incident in which he was shot by Kansas highway Patrol Troopers.

He was transported to the Mitchell County Jail in Beloit.

Several area County fairs are in full swing this week.

In Sedan, the Chautauqua County Fair is underway, and at 5:30 tonight there will be a free BBQ and bean feed. Table service will be provided and donations are appreciated. The talent show will also be tonight at 6:30. The rodeo also starts tonight, with a full lineup of events including bareback, saddle bronc, bull riding and steer wrestling to name a few. 4-H Events today include the swine show today at 8 a.m., rabbit and poultry show at 11, bucket calf show at 6 p.m. and the beef show at 7.

In Wilson County, the rabbit and poultry show is this afternoon at 2 p.m., and check-in of all exhibits except food and flowers is tonight from 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Also tonight there will be a glow-in-the-dark kickball game at 8 p.m.

In Labette County, the dairy cattle, bucket calf and goat show is today at 8 a.m., round robin showmanship takes place at 1 this afternoon, and the horse show will be at 7 p.m.

KGGF staff will be broadcasting live from both fairs today during Open Line from 8:30 to 11.

Coffeyville's Summer Celebration has become one of the biggest events in Southeast Kansas over the last eight years.

Organizer Gail Smith says the city has been a big supporter of the event each year.

Smith says this year's was the biggest one yet with over 88 vendors set up at the park and their biggest fireworks show. He thinks next year will be even bigger.

A joint drug task force makes an arrest and seizes drugs in Cherokee County.

At around 7:30 this morning, the Ozark Drug Enforcement Team, Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office Warrant Entry Team and the Galena Police Department served a narcotics search warrant at 412 Washington Street in Galena. The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office joined the Ozark Drug Enforcement Team earlier this year to enhance enforcement efforts toward those trafficking and distributing illegal drugs throughout the region. The warrant execution in Galena was the result of one of the joint investigations currently being conducted.

During the search, a large quantity of methamphetamine, along with marijuana and drug paraphernalia, was seized from the home. Arrested was 28-year-old Sabrina LaTurner, who was transported to the Cherokee County Jail on allegations of distributing a controlled substance within 1,000 feet of a school and possession of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia and marijuana.

A business proposition presented by an area cattleman two years ago is one step closer to reality, after a multi-million-dollar investment from the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

More than $6.8 million in grant money is being supplied, courtesy of the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program, to help construct, equip, and obtain grant of inspection for a slaughter and fabrication facility for Real Kansas Meats of Fall River.

Founder and owner Andrew Miller says the goal was to help out smaller producers.

Real Kansas Meats collectively has more than 100 years of experience with meat processing facilities. Miller says creating an opportunity for sustainability was the primary aim.

The facility will serve an estimated 100 producers across Kansas and Missouri, as well as create 117 new full-time jobs. Miller says he's excited for a future where beef can be tracked through the entire process.

The USDA is also issuing $2.45 million in grant money to build a beef and hog processing facility for Top End, who do business as TEAM Processing, in Kanorado, Kansas.

Wilson County is hoping to receive funding to help with damage from recent flooding.

The county has applied for a Presidential Disaster Declaration for the flood damage that occured earlier this spring. County Coordinator Kris Marple says they have an application hearing regarding the request next week.

Additionally, the county made a motion to approve the bid from Starbuck Trucking in Fredonia regarding a landfill project. Marple says Starbuck was the only group to submit a bid before the deadline.

Other items of business at this week's meeting was an update from County Clerk Kayla Busch, in which 29 mail ballots have been collected so far, as well as 45 in person voters, regarding advance voting for the August primary.

The next commission meeting will be July 31st at 9 a.m. in Room 101 of the County Courthouse.

An Independence man is arrested on a number of charges after a traffic stop.

At around 9:45am, Montgomery County Sheriff Deputies conducted a traffic stop on a silver 2005 Toyota van at the intersection of 10^th and Oak Street in Independence. The driver was identified as Codaniel Jones, who wasn't in possession of a valid driver's license. During the stop, Police Service Dog Sancho was deployed for a free air sniff around the vehicle. PSD Sancho alerted deputies to the presence of illegal drugs.

Officers searched the vehicle and found methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Jones was taken into custody and during a search of him, deputies found brass knuckles. Jones faces charges of driving with a suspended license, possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia and criminal carrying of a weapon.

 The Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics along with other state and local law enforcement agencies conduct a raid on a large marijuana trafficking operation in southern Oklahoma.

 The raid happened Tuesday, July 23, 2024 at a location near Ardmore as a part of an ongoing investigation into out-of-state black market marijuana trafficking. Investigators discovered the farm was selling as much as one thousand pounds of marijuana at a time to buyers who were then transporting the product to places like New York City, Chicago, and parts of Florida.

Agents seized more than 100,000 marijuana plants and over 1,000 pounds of processed marijuana. Officers also arrested 34-year-old Wen Bin Huang (Win Ben Wang) and 38-year-old Wen Zhang Huang (Win Zang Wang) on multiple charges including Aggravated Trafficking of Marijuana.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond called the raid significant.

Photo courtesy OBN

 Police in Fort Smith, Arkansas, identify the man who caused a lockdown at an area hospital earlier this week.

 The man in question has been identified as 34-year-old John West. West was spotted in Mercy Hospital on Monday with what appeared to be a hand gun. The weapon turned out to be a water pistol that had been painted black to look like a real gun. It was found when West was eventually discovered hiding in a box in an educational room in the hospital.

Hospital officials say West is a former patient at the hospital who was banned from the property last week, though no reason was given for the ban.

West faces charges of aggravated assault, felony theft, and impairing the operation of a vital public facility. He is currently being held in the Sebastian County Adult Detention Center on a $50,000 bond.

 The victim of a weekend shooting in Pryor has been identified.

 Police have identified the victim in Sunday night's shooting at the Pryor Econo Lodge Motel as 40-year-old Aaron Gonzales. Gonzales was discovered in the parking lot of the motel with multiple gunshot wounds to the upper body. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he later died from his wounds.

James Leroy Jackson was taken into custody as a suspect in the shooting. Police say they found five guns inside Jackson's vehicle when he was stopped. He is being held in the Mayes County Jail on multiple charges including first degree murder.

Investigators say Jackson and Gonzales did not know each other and that the shooting was unprovoked and random.

 The Candidate Forum for Montgomery County offices takes place tonight in Independence.

 The forum will last about 90 minutes with each set of candidates answering questions in 30 minute segments. Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says the questions for candidates come from voters.

The forum will begin with County Clerk Candidates Misty Wilson and Ami Standridge at 5:30, followed by County Commission District 2 candidates Charlotte Scott-Schmidt and Phil Clubine at 6, the County Sheriff Candidates Ron Wade and Bobby Dierks at 6:30. The forum takes place at the Civic Center in Memorial Hall in Independence. It will also be broadcast live on the Mighty 690 KGGF.

 The City of Neodesha takes the first step toward a downtown renovation.

 At this week's City Commission meeting, commissioners heard from representatives from the Griffith Group. The group wants to renovate the Brown Hotel in downtown Neodesha by turning it into apartments and office space. A representative from Neodesha's bond counsel Triplett, Woolf & Garretson Andrew Kovar says the resolution before the commission signals the city's willingness to proceed with the project.

While the resolution is not a solid commitment to the project, Mayor Devin Johnson says he strongly supports the move.

Commissioners approved the resolution by a unanimous vote. In other business, the Rankin Library Board was expanded to seven members and Mayor Johnson issued a proclamation declaring August 6^th as National Night Out.

Photo: Brown Hotel

 Police in Wichita are investigating a baby that was left abandoned in a city canal near the interstate.

 The 11-month-old girl was discovered around 1:30 yesterday afternoon in the canal near !-135 and Pawnee in south Wichita. The baby was taken to a local hospital for evaluation. Police say a man named Vincent James Perez may have information on the investigation. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call 9-1-1 or contact detectives at 316-268-4407

 A K-9 officer for the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics helps sniff out a major drug bust.

 K-9 Yeko is being credited with discovering more than 50 pounds of fentanyl being trafficked into Oklahoma this week. OBN says that amount of material is enough to produce a quarter of a million fentanyl pills that would have been sold in Oklahoma and elsewhere in the U.S. Authorities say fentanyl in those mass quantities usually comes from China into Mexico, then across the southern border where it is distributed via the interstate system.

Photo courtesy of the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics

 A Bartlesville is held over on a $2 million bond after facing new charges.

 45-year-old Thomas Conway was arrested earlier this month on charges related to the death of Alex Daughtery. That case remains under investigation, but Conway now faces new charges related to a search warrant that was executed during the course of that investigation. While police were searching Conway's residence, they found a white liquid that tested positive for cocaine. Officer also found other drug paraphernalia, fentanyl pills, and a loaded handgun.

The new charges against Conway include unlawful possession of a dangerous, controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and unlawful use of a police radio.

Conway is currently being held in protective custody on a $2 million bond. His next court date is set for Friday.

Exhibits will be checked in today at the Chautauqua County Fair in Sedan.

Swine, sheep, goat and beef weigh-ins will take place this morning, and 4-H exhibits can be checked in starting at noon. Judging will take place all afternoon. At 4 p.m., kids barnyard olympics will take place, and there will be a 4-H cookout and swim party tonight at 6 p.m. Registration will open for the 1K and 5K races tonight at 6 along with fair prayer and worship. The water gun fun runs will start tonight at 7 p.m. followed by a frozen t-shirt contest.

At the Wilson County Fair in Fredonia, arts and crafts as well as photography exhibits will be judged this morning.

Coming up tomorrow, KGGF staff will be broadcasting live from both the Chautauqua County Fair in Sedan and the Wilson County Fair in Fredonia during Open Line from 8:30 – 11 on The Mighty 690.

Volunteers are wanted for the Neodesha Historical Museum.

According to the Wilson County Citizen, the museum, formerly known as the Norman #1 Museum, is in the process of establishing an advisory board or “friends of the museum” group.

The board will help to guide the museum and establish a volunteer base. Anyone interested in assisting with the museum is encouraged to attend an informational meeting tomorrow, July 25th, at 7 p.m. at the Neodesha Senior Center at 422 Main.

The Coffeyville City Commission approves a contract for reconstruction of the LeClere Park tennis courts.

There was some discussion about painting pickleball courts on the tennis courts. City Engineer Thomas Osborne says doing so would create some issues with hosting high school tournaments.  City Manager Ben Brubaker says they are looking into adding just pickleball courts.  

In other business, the commission approved a resolution to authorize the calling of a Special Question Election for a one-half percent citywide Retailers’ Sales Tax for financing the costs of general transportation improvements throughout the City.

The Independence Police Department announces the appointment of the new assistant police chief.

New Assistant Police Chief Derek Bryant started with IPD as an auxiliary police officer in October 1993, and then as a full-time officer in May 1994. Bryant was promoted and served as a lieutenant from 1998 to 2009. He transferred to the detective’s division in 2009 and is currently the lead detective.

New Police Chief Dustin Stafford says Bryant’s background and commitment to serving the community align with the department’s mission.

A Parsons man is arrested for a domestic assault incident lasting for multiple days.

The Parsons Police Department was notified about a possible domestic assault and officers were dispatched to the 2900 Block of Clark. Upon arrival, officers interviewed the victim, a 42-year-old female, who shared a detailed description of her assaults that transpired over a period of days. The victim stated that she had been repeatedly punched and strangled to the point of not being able to breathe. The assailant told the victim that he was going to slaughter the family. There was evidence of ongoing violent conduct inside the residence, including damaged walls and doors. The victim was also held against her will. There were several instances of reported sexual assault over a period of days.

Officers arrested 36-year-old Justin Wayne Schwark at the scene. He was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, aggravated kidnapping and criminal threats. Schwark posted bail before he could be booked into the county jail. The victim is receiving protective assistance.

The Labette County Fair continues today with the first night of rodeo events.

Gates will open at 7 p.m. tonight and tomorrow and organizer Kyle McKenzie says they're still looking for entries for the muttin bustin'.  

McKenzie says the rodeo tonight and tomorrow plus Danger Zone Bull Riding on Friday should be crowd-pleasers.

4-H events take place throughout the week and the demo derby will start at 8 p.m. Saturday.

A full list of events is available here.

 The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office arrests two men on narcotics charges.

 Deputies served a narcotics-related search warrant on a Riverton home Monday, July 22, 2024. Arrested at the scene were 33-year-old Matthew Haynes and 41-year-old Brandon Lewis. During the course of the search, deputies found narcotics along with drug paraphernalia consistent with distribution. Both men were transported to the Cherokee County Jail in Columbus.

Haynes faces charges of possessing cocaine, methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Haynes is also being held on allegations of child endangerment. Lewis was taken into custody on two outstanding warrants for possessing a controlled substance and failure to pay child support.

 An Oklahoma man is in custody after attempting to flee from police in Mayes County, OK, by swimming in Chouteau Creek.

 Police received a call about a suspicious person on Sunday around 11am and that the man was screaming and causing a disturbance. Police arrived on the scene to find Thomas Meeker, who had active warrants for his arrest out of the Cherokee Nation. Meeker resisted arrest and assaulted deputies before jumping into Chouteau Creek, where he swam for nearly an hour. He then exited the water and fled into nearby woods where he was eventually taken into custody. He is currently being held in the Mayes County Jail and faces multiple charges including two felonies.

 A Wichita man convicted of animal cruelty is sentenced to more than a decade in prison.

 31-year-old Logan Cavender was sentenced following a no contest plea to 10 counts of animal cruelty stemming from the discovery of 10 dismembered cats found in rural Sedgwick County in 2022. He also pleaded no contest to misdemeanor charges of stalking and breach of privacy related to other crimes discovered during the animal cruelty investigation. The judge in the case sentenced Cavender to the maximum penalty for each charge, calling him a threat to public safety.

 A Hutchinson man is in custody after leading police on a high-speed chase yesterday afternoon.

 According to Hutchinson Police, officers located a wanted subject 36-year-old James Smith near 11^th Avenue and Severance Streets in Hutchinson. Before they were able to make contact with him, Smith fled the area in a vehicle.

Smith was located again about a half hour later. This time, Smith was armed with a handgun. When he noticed officer from the Kansas Highway Patrol, he fled again. Troopers began a pursuit and followed as Smith ran a stop sign and struck another vehicle. Smith then left his own vehicle and fled on foot, firing a shot from his handgun as he ran. He was taken into custody shortly after. Authorities believe Smith was not firing his weapon at officers.

Smith was taken into custody and booked on multiple felonies including Felony Flee and Eluding and Criminal Discharge of a Firearm.

One citizen sustained minor injuries from the crash during the incident.

 Residents of Montgomery County will have the chance to hear from candidates for county offices tomorrow night.

 The City of Independence along with the Independence Chamber of Commerce and Women of Kansas are hosting a candidate forum tomorrow night for candidates running for Montgomery County Offices.

Participating candidates will include:

For County Clerk: Sueann Schenk-Friesen, Misty Wilson, and Ami Standridge

For County Commission District 2: Charlotte Schott Schmidt, Phil Clubine, and Larry McManus

And for County Sheriff : Ron Wade and Bobby Dierks

Moderating the event will be Chamber of Commerce Vice President of Public Affairs Anthony Vaughn.

The forum takes place in the Civic Center at Memorial Hall in Independence and it begins at 5:30pm

The candidate forum will also be broadcast live on the Mighty 690, KGGF.

 The Washington County Commissioners approved an agreement Monday to allow Grand Mental Health to temporarily use the sheriff's office north parking lot for employee use.

 Sheriff Scott Owen says its a way to help out a neighbor.

The commissioners also approved continuing the county's property and liability insurance policies with the Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma Self-Insured Group for this fiscal year. The policy premium has increased by about 20% over the past two years because of insurance losses in other Oklahoma counties.

 The Board of Osage County Commissioners convened for a regularly scheduled meeting at the fairgrounds on Monday morning for a brief and productive meeting.

 The Board signed two interlocal agreements with the town of Barnsdall. One is to assist with the damage that took place in Bird Creek and the other is to monitor the clean-up process from the tornado that came through Barnsdall. District One Commissioner Anthony Hudson says the monitoring system would include county and city workers.

During citizen's input, Hudson was asked how much it was going to take to clean up Bird Creek. Hudson said a concrete number hasn't been established, but FEMA is helping. Hudson added that clean-up efforts will be going on for awhile, but that FEMA has told the county that they are ahead of schedule by about 90 days.

 Montgomery County is getting ready for a major road repair project on south Buckeye Street in Coffeyville.

 Preparations for the project have been in the works for weeks as various entities have moved water lines and utility poles to allow for the work. At this week's County Commission meeting, Public Works Coordinator Jim Wright submitted a $343,000 invoice to the commission for Atmos to relocate gas lines in the area. Wright says the relocation of those lines is one of the final steps in preparing for the road work to begin.

Wright also says the speed limit on Buckeye will need to be lowered in the run-up to the road closure.

In other business, County Appraiser Melody Kikkert asked commissioners to allow the sale of one vehicle and the purchase of another for the appraiser's office and the issue of mowing around the county health department was also discussed.

 The Osage Nation in Oklahoma is expanding broadband coverage for its citizens.

 Nearly two years ago, the Osage Nation received several grants in excess of a million dollars so that those residing within Osage County will have a faster and more reliable internet connection. Several towers have been put up over that time and Project Manager Drew Tiger says his crews have been very busy.

Osage Nation residents over the age of 55 may be eligible to receive internet for free, or at a reduced rate. Around 200 miles of fiber optic cable, along with 16 towers are being put up across Osage County.

 A Kansas man was seen in Washington County Court in Bartlesville on Monday, July 22, for failing to register as a sex offender.

 44-year-old Jason Lee Johnson last registered his Ochelata address in December of 2023. Johnson was convicted on second-degree rape in the state of Wyoming in 2010 and is a level three lifetime offender. Earlier this year, a Washington County Deputy received an anonymous tip that Johnson was no longer living at his previous Ochelata address. Johnson allegedly moved to Wichita in December and had not been seen by his wife since then. Johnson allegedly became involved in another relationship in Kansas and moved states without notifying authorities of the move.

He was given a $10,000 bond and his next court date is set for August 9th.

 A Benedict man is injured following a single vehicle accident in Wilson County.

 52-year-old Maurice Heskett sustained minor injuries yesterday after a single vehicle accident that occurred on K-39 just west of Chanute. Heskett was traveling eastbound on K-39 when his 2017 Ford F-250 went off the road and into the ditch. His vehicle then struck a telephone pole and then a bridge culvert. Heskett was taken to Neosho Memorial Hospital in Chanute where he was treated for his injuries.

 An 18-year old Pawhuska woman went missing on Wednesday evening and hasn't been seen since.

 Keri Casey was last seen leaving her house in the Pawhuska area and headed to a friends house. Casey is 5-5, weighs 120 pounds, has brown hair and blue eyes. Casey was last seen wearing a black Call of Duty T-shirt. She was wearing black and white shorts with leopard print slip-on shoes carrying a brown crossbody bag. Casey also has excema scars on the back of her knees and portions of her arms.  

If you have any information, you are asked to call the Pawhuska Police Department at 918-287-4545. 

 A tragic collision on Interstate 44 east of 193rd E Ave has resulted in the death of Jason L. Hurd, a 50-year-old resident of Nowata, Oklahoma.

 The incident occurred around 8:56 PM within the city limits of Catoosa, in Rogers County.

According to authorities, Hurd was riding a 2018 Kawasaki ZX1400 motorcycle westbound on I-44 when he failed to negotiate a curve. His motorcycle crossed over the grass median into the eastbound lanes, colliding head-on with a 2023 Ford F150 driven by 26-year-old Jayson D. Jones of Claremore, Oklahoma.

Upon impact, Hurd suffered severe injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene by the Catoosa Fire Department. Meanwhile, Jones, who was driving the Ford F150 eastbound, was transported by Pafford EMS to St Johns hospital in Tulsa as a precautionary measure. Fortunately, she was treated and released with no reported injuries.

The preliminary investigation indicates that the cause of the collision was Hurd's failure to maintain his lane while negotiating the curve. Weather conditions at the time were reported as clear, and the roadway was dry. Both drivers were equipped with seatbelts, and the airbags in Jones's vehicle did not deploy.

The condition of Hurd at the time of the incident is currently under investigation, while Jones's condition was described as apparently normal.

Local authorities continue to investigate the details surrounding this tragic accident on I-44.

 Police in Pryor respond to a deadly shooting.

 The incident happened at the Econo Lodge Motel around 9:30pm on Sunday. Witnesses say the victim was standing in the parking lot outside a hotel room when the suspect drove up in a vehicle. The two spoke and the suspect shot the victim for no apparent reason. Police say the two did not know each other.

The victim was transported to a hospital where he later died from his injuries.

The driver of the vehicle was apprehended by Mayes County deputies, just north of Chouteau. He has been identified as James Leroy Jackson. Jackson has been booked into the Mayes County Jail on charges of first-degree murder.

 Authorities in northwest Arkansas say one man is dead and two others are injured after being struck by a train on Saturday night.

 Police in Van Buren, Arkansas, say the trio were on the bridge, taking pictures when the train came down the tracks and struck them. The two who were injured reported the accident just after it happened. They told authorities that the deceased man was thrown from the tracks into the water. The victim has been identified, but police are not releasing his name at this time.

 The Candidate Forum for offices in Montgomery County races will happen this Wednesday at 5:30pm in the civic center in Independence.

 The event is co-sponsored by the Independence Chamber of Commerce.

 Chamber President Lisa Wilson says there are three races that will be featured in Wednesday's forum.

Wilson says the candidates will face questions from the voters of Montgomery County.

Residents are invited to attend at the Civic Center in Independence on Wednesday at 5:30pm.

 Seven people are injured following a Sunday morning car accident in Derby, KS.

 The accident happened around 11am yesterday when two vehicles waiting at a red light were struck from behind by a third vehicle. A total of four people were taken to nearby hospitals following the accident – two with critical injuries and two with serious injuries. No names have been released but the Sedgwick County Sheriff's Office has confirmed that three of those hospitalized are children.

Police continue to investigate the cause of the accident and believe speed may have been a factor.

 The Derek Schmidt for Congress Campaign announces five people to serve as campaign chairs in Montgomery County.

 Schmidt has chosen Mike Ewy, Jim Kelly, Nancy and Jason Moore, and Marty Reichenberger. Schimdt says he is grateful for the local help with his campaign.

As the former Kansas Attorney General and Independence native, Schmidt is running for the Congressional seat in Kansas' 2^nd District. He says he is running to focus on what he calls the three “I's”: illegal immigration, inflation, and the intrusion of big government in the lives of citizens.

 A Federal Fugitive from justice is captured over the weekend in southwest Missouri.

 Deputies from the McDonald County Sheriff's Office along with Detectives and the Special Response Team served two warrants on Thursday in the Goodman, MO, area, as a part of an investigation into a theft ring.

Three people were arrested in the raid. Among them was 37-year-old Cory Rusher. Rusher's history includes a conviction for Burglary of a Federal Firearms Licensee. In 2017 he was sentenced to 6 ½ years in federal prison and 3 years supervised release.

 A Sunday afternoon house fire in Cherokee County leaves a home in ruins.

 Fire fighters responded to the call around 1:45 yesterday afternoon about two miles southwest of the City of Cherokee, near the junction of 10^th street and US-400.

When fire crews arrived on the scene, they discovered a two-story, wood-framed home engulfed in flames, with the first floor of the home nearing collapse. When the structure did collapse, the blaze grew in intensity due to the added fuel of wood shake shingles from the roof. Firefighters eventually brought the blaze under control. The occupants of the house were not home at the time, though two family pets perished in the fire.

No firefighters were injured.

 A Texas man is seriously injured in a single vehicle accident in Coffeyville.

 58-year-old Michael Bowers of Porter, Texas, was northbound on Willow Street in Coffeyville just before 11am on Friday when his Dodge Ram Pickup went off the roadway to the east, striking multiple mailboxes. The vehicle came back on the roadway briefly before leaving the street once again, this time to the west, where it then struck a tree in the 400 block of Willow. Bowers was taken to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center for treatment. He was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

 Governor Laura Kelly announces $10 million for broadband projects in rural Kansas.

 Governor Kelly announced that the funds will go to twelve internet service providers in order to help provide broadband internet in rural areas. Under the program, Brightspeed in Wilson County was awarded $470,000 along with matching funds of $1.2 million to connect more than 500 customers. Allen County's KwiKom was awarded $950,000 with just over $1 million in matching funds to connect more than 150 customers.

Governor Kelly stated that access to reliable, high-speed internet will ensure Kansans have the resources to invest in themselves and in the state.

The projects were selected after review by an executive committee and public comment. The public comment period ensures transparency. Comments and community feedback are considered during the selection process.

Initiated in 2020, the Broadband Acceleration Grant is a 10-year, $85 million program designed to bring essential internet access to Kansas communities. Administered by the Kansas Office of Broadband Development and funded through the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), this latest round of grants brings the program’s total investment for broadband infrastructure to more than $41.5 million.

The Labette County Fair continues all week with a full lineup of events.

Tomorrow, the day will kick off with the poultry show at 9 a.m. followed by the bucket calf show at 5 p.m. and the beef show at 6 p.m.

The ARCA/IPRA/Open Rodeo will take place tomorrow and Wednesday night, with gates open at 7 p.m. Mutton bustin' will be nightly at 7:30 and the rodeo starts at 8 p.m. Bull riding is coming up on Friday, and the demo derby takes place on Saturday. All events happen at the Labette County Fairgrounds in Oswego. Coming up tomorrow, we'll have organizers on at 9:10 during Open Line to share more information on upcoming events.

Police in northeast Oklahoma say four people have been found dead in an apparent murder-suicide.

Broken Arrow Police Sergeant Jordan Sawyer said in a news release that police found the four in a home after someone called 911 shortly before 11 a.m. Friday. Sawyer said the dispatcher heard gunshots during the call. The names and ages of the four have not been released at this time as investigators say they're working to piece together the entire story.

 A one vehicle accident occurs in a Coffeyville neighborhood late this morning.

 Eyewitnesses say the driver of the one-ton pickup took out several mailboxes on the east side of Willow, before hitting a tree and ending up in a yard in the 400 block of Willow.

 Police and wrecker crews are on scene at this time. The condition and the name of the driver are unknown. Although the intersection isn't closed, police advise finding an alternate route until the scene is cleared.

 KGGF will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.

 Two northwest Arkansas high school seniors bring home perfect scores on their ACT tests.

 Taylor Conran and Miles Batson – both of whom will be seniors at Farmington high School, just west of Fayetteville – each scored a 36 composite score on the ACT. That is the highest score possible on the test. Most ACT takers score between 17 and 24.

Conran was the first to earn the high score, prompting his friend Batson to work hard to earn the same honors.

Both boys take part in other school activities besides academics. Batson has starred in the high school musical while Conran plays football and also plays guitar and piano.

Batson hopes to attend the University of Arkansas to pursue a political career after graduation while Conran has his sights set on Brigham Young

 The 2025 budget for the city of Caney was shown to those in attendance during last night's (Thursday night's) special meeting.

 City Administrator Kelley Zellner says the city will use what was adopted Monday night.

 One mill in Caney is equal to just over $11,800. The library will receive $5,000, while the museum will receive $7,000. The new mill levy rate would be 50.653.

 Zellner says the budget leaves very little room for error.

 He also says things will get better for Caney, especially when the connection with Coffeyville is complete.

 The date for the budget hearing will be September 3^rd at 6:30 p.m. At City Hall, 100 West 4^th Street, in Caney.

 One man is dead and a woman is injured following an early morning shooting in Muskogee.

 Around 1:30 this morning, Muskogee Police responded to a call of shots fired. They arrived on the scene to find a man and woman inside a car. Both had multiple gunshot wounds. They were each taken to a nearby hospital for treatment. The man – identified as 38-year-old Reon Bell – later died from his wounds.

The woman's injuries are not believed to be life threatening. M-P-D continue to investigate. At this time, police have no suspects in the case.

 Authorities in Wagoner County, Oklahoma, urge caution after two girls are injured in an ATV crash.

 Wagoner County Sheriff's Deputies responded to an ATV accident on Tuesday. Two minor female were reportedly injured in the crash. Upon arrival on the scene, officers fund a 16-year-old and a 10-year-old had been injured in the accident. One of the two required immediate medical attention. A tourniquet was applied and the girl was transported to a hospital for treatment. Wagoner County Sheriff Chris Elliot reminds everyone to always wear a helmet and to drive safely.

 At this week's Parsons City Commission meeting, the Parsons Police Department officially welcomed new officer Cory Brown into their ranks.

 Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks says Brown completed his Field Officer Training Program.

Brown was presented with his pin by one of his four children.

In other business, the commission held a public hearing on neighborhood revitalization. The group discussed new construction and the renovation of existing buildings inside the flood plain for economic development.

 A Kansas farmer honors his late wife and brother while raising awareness for a devastating disease.

 Al Melichar of Caldwell lost both his wife and his brother to Alzheimer's disease within right months of each other. In order to bring awareness to the disease, Melichar recently mowed a 90,000 square foot Alzheimer's Association logo into his wheat field.

Melichar has long been an advocate for those affected by Alzheimer's disease. He has served on caregiver panels, assisted with the Alzheimer's Association Kansas Education Conference on Dementia, and provided assistance with support groups.

For more information on Alzheimer's, go here.

 The City of Baxter Springs joins the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's Route 66 Speed Campaign Tour.

 The campaign focuses on educating the public on the dangers of speeding in communities along historic Route 66. Members of the Baxter Springs Police Department attended an event in Galena yesterday to kick off their participation in the program. During the campaign, officers in Baxter Springs will strive to educate drivers about the dangers and potentially deadly effects of speeding while promoting safer driving habits in the community.

 The Osage Nation Broadband Project in Oklahoma is expanding in an effort to help its citizens over the age of 55.

 After receiving a grant in 2022, they began installing broadband into communities across Osage County and wanted to make that service free those over the age of 55. Service across Osage County isn't great, but Assistant Principal Chief RJ Walker says they are working to improve upon that.

All Osage Nation residents across Osage County are eligible to apply. Applicants must have an active account with Osage Broadband. 

 An inmate at the El Dorado Correctional Facility has died.

 24-year-old Blade Floyd was found unresponsive in his cell yesterday. Staff and EMS attempted to revive him but were unable to do so. An autopsy will be performed to determine the cause of Dloyd's death.

The incident is under investigation by the Kansas Department of Corrections and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation.

Floyd was serving a 12 year prison sentence for burglary convictions in Wilson County.

The Labette County Fair starts this weekend in Oswego.

Starting tomorrow, the horse show performance will kick things off at 8 a.m. On Sunday, the dog show takes place at 11 a.m. followed by the pony pull at 2 p.m. Events will take place all next week as the fair will continue through next Saturday. Some additional highlights include the rodeo on Tuesday and Wednesday night, Bull riding on Friday and the demo derby on Saturday. All events take place at the Labette County Fairgrounds in Oswego, and coming up on Tuesday, we'll have fair organizers on for a preview of events during Open Line at 9:10 a.m.

The Elk County Free Fair continues today through the weekend in Longton, KS.

This afternoon, turtle and kid races will take place at 2 p.m. The pedal tractor pull will be tonight at 5 p.m., and there will be a free barbecue tonight at 6 p.m. The 4-H beef show also takes place tonight at 6 p.m., followed by VIP showmanship. There will also be a food auction at 7 p.m. plus bingo tonight.

Highlights tomorrow include the fair parade at 10:30 and Schenck Insurance watermelon feed at 6 p.m. After the parade tomorrow, there will be a meet-and-greet for any candidate running for office in Elk County. Each candidate will have three to five minutes to introduce themselves and then talk with the public. Any candidate interested should reach out to Juli Young at the fairground or on the Elk County Free Fair Facebook page.

 A New Blaine, Arkansas, man was killed in a single vehicle accident in Coffeyville.

 According to KHP, the accident took place just before 2:00 this morning on Woodland Avenue. As 24-year-old Zachary Evans' vehicle approached North Buckeye, the 2006 Toyota Avalon failed to negotiate a curve, entered the north ditch and overturned, coming to rest on its top.

 Evans was pronounced deceased at the scene. He was not wearing his seat belt.

 One man is dead and a second hospitalized after a shooting in Parsons Wednesday night.  A third man has been taken into custody facing murder charges.

 At about 11:00 Wednesday night police were called to the 2300 block of Appleton for reports of a man bleeding.  When officers arrived they found Tylor Abshere lying in the street with a gunshot wound and a group of people standing around him.  Police contacted EMS and began applying first aid when a man stepped from behind a tree holding a gun saying he had shot the victim.  Police were able to de-escalate the man who was identified as Michael Morales.

 While being a arrested Morales attempted to flee and was tazed by officers.  Once Morales was placed into custody police were advised there was a second victim inside a residence.  Police then found a second man, identified as Maurice Harper.  Both Harper and Abshere were transported to the hospital but Harper was later pronounced dead.

 48 year old Michael Chrsitopher Morales is in custody facing charges of first degree murder, attempted murder, aggravated robbery and interference with law enforcement.  No other information is being released at this time as this is an on going active investigation.  

Advance voting for the upcoming August primary election begins this week in Wilson County.

Citizens of the county may vote at the Courthouse in Fredonia, which is open to voting Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. The county courthouse is the only location in Wilson County for advance voting.

Advance voting concludes on Monday, August 5th, with the primary election the following day on August 6th.

Additionally, County Health Director Amy Lell gave a department update. She says they are hoping to do more training with safe sleep.

The commissioners had a consensus to approve the necessary $500 registration fee for the seminar.

Commissioners also had a budget work session for the 2025 Fiscal Year, and scheduled the official budget hearing for September 11th at 10 a.m.

The next Wilson County Commission meeting is July 24th at 9 a.m. in Room 101 of the county courthouse.

 The Sedgwick County District Attorney's Office says there is insufficient evidence to file charges in an animal cruelty case involving the Valley Center High School varsity baseball team.

 The incident involved allegations that the team had killed a chicken on a school baseball field before leaving for an away game in April. Prompting the school district to suspend the rest of the team's season.

The D.A.'s Office said the investigation into the incident did not produce enough evidence to charge anyone with a crime under Kansas law.

 A Cedarvale-Dexter High School student wins a national title.

 Brody Lenington took home top honors last week at the 2024 USA high School Clay Target League National Championship in Mason, Michigan. Lenington scored a perfect 100 round and went on to hit 55 targets without a miss to win the national title. As a team, Cedar-vale-Dexter placed 5^th out of 454 total teams.

 The Cherokee Nation is expanding its casino footprint as they apply to build another new casino near Bartlesville.

 Cherokee Nation applied to build a new casino on US-75 south of the Bartlesville city limits. The location is only a few miles from the Osage Casino, which opened less than a year ago. Construction on the project would begin in June 2025.

 Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announces $26 million to communities for road improvement projects.

 The funding comes through the Kansas Department of Transportation City Connecting Link Improvement Program or C-CLIP. The City of Independence received $1.5 million from the program. City Engineer John Garris says the money will go to repair a much-used section of road.

Garris says KDOT awards the funding based on an equation that includes the age of the roadway and the amount of traffic it sees.

Other area cities receiving funding include Coffeyville, which was awarded $1.2 million and Yates Center, which will get $1.5 million. Projects in Winfield, Ark City, and Pittsburg will also receive C-CLIP funds.

 The City of Cherryvale may experience some water issues today.

 City crews will be at work starting at 8am this morning to repair a fire hydrant. This will cause many water customers on the west side of Cherryvale to be without water until repairs are completed. Other water customers in the city may experience low water pressure.

The City of Cherryvale appreciates customer understanding while the work is underway.

 The mother of a man accused of killing his wife is arrested in Missouri.

 Heather McJunkins, was arrested on Tuesday in Carthage on felony charges of interfering with an active criminal investigation and concealing or destroying evidence. McJunkins' son Gavino Macias is accused of killing his wife Kenia Lopez inside a camper near Louisburg, Kansas, in June. Macias remains in the Miami County Jail in Kansas. His mother, McJunkins, is currently being held in the Jasper County Jail where she awaits extradition to Kansas.

 Green Country Fire Protection is a volunteer based organization battling fires that break out in the southern portion of Osage County.

 They currently serve more than 2,500 customers, but that number is increasing. Green Country Fire Chief Glenn Quimby says it is important to get a few more volunteers so that they can continue maintaining their coverage area.

Quimby says they are looking for a total of five volunteers. Prior experience is not required.

 A Bartlesville man faces charges of indecent exposure.

 61-year-old  John Branstetter was arrested just before 5am yesterday morning outside a Bartlesville convenience store. He is accused of flashing multiple people outside of the store. Branstatter told police that he did not flash people and that the real culprit may have been a hologram of himself.

Branstetter was given a $25,000 bond in Washington County Court. His next court date is tomorrow.

 The Parsons Police Department is asking the public for their input on public safety and policing.

 Residents are asked to fill out a 19 question survey about resident thoughts and exepriences with the P-P-D. The survey is voluntary, anonymous and takes less than five minutes to complete.

Chief Robert Spinks calls the survey an important tool in helping P-P-D understand how their mission and values align with community expectations. The survey is funded  by a grant from the US Department of Justice, the Bureau of Justice Assistance,and covers topics like personal experiences, comfort levels, police protection, officer training, and department visibility.

To take the survey, go here.

Back-to-school items are now being collected in Cherryvale.

The Cherryvale Community Center Back to School Supply Drive starts today and runs through August 15^th. Items needed include crayons, markers, colored pencils, lined paper, scissors, glue sticks and more. Items can be dropped off at the Cherryvale Police Department lobby. The supplies will go to the Cherryvale Public Library's back-to-school event on August 16^th from 5 to 7 p.m. A full list of needed supplies is available below:

Crayons, markers, colored pencils, lined paper, scissors, glue sticks, pencil bags/boxes, notebooks, folders, highlighters, backpacks, tissues, Clorox wipes, lunch boxes, rulers, hand sanitizer.

 The Native American Fellowship, Inc. or NAFI receives a grant from the American Association of Retired Persons.

 The South Coffeyville-based NAFI received the $4,000 AARP Community Challenge grant to build a community garden. Frybread Journeys Co-Host Amy Dollar says NAFI has big plans for the garden.

NAFI was one of 343 grant recipients nationwide. The new community garden will be located near their community building at 215 Oklahoma Street in South Coffeyville. NAFI Secretary Kris Crane says they hope to use the garden to allow their elders to pass along customs to new generations.

Crane adds that their plan for the garden includes at least six raised beds and three benches plus walkways and solar lighting. NAFI has nearly 1,000 members.

 Area small business owners are invited to learn more about how to save energy and reduce operational expenses through energy-related upgrade.

 Montgomery County Action Council's Melissa Johnson says the upcoming Energy Workshop will be a very informative session.

Johnson says the workshop will cover topics such as refrigeration, HVAC, lighting and more.

The workshop is free and will happen at the Caney City Hall from 9am to 3pm on July 24^th. For more information, contact the Montgomery County Action Council at 620-331-3830 or visit their Facebook page.

 The Parsons Police Department arrest two registered drug offenders for non-compliance.

 44-year-old Neal Wayne Avery of Parsons was found to be non-compliant on July 9^th after it was discovered the address he used to regiater was actually an open field. This, along with another violation, made Avery non-compliant and he was takne into custody on July 15^th.

P-P-D also arrested 41-year-old Dustin Eli Schulze on July 15 after he was found in possession of Oxycodone tablets.

Both men are in custody and await charges from the Labette County Attorney's Office.

 A Pittsburg, Missouri, woman faces charges of felony animal cruelty after allegedly leaving 13 puppies in crates inside a hot car.

 Macey Casteel claimed she was on her way to Oklahoma to sell the cockapoo puppies when she stopped in Springfield and left the puppies in the car unattended. Reports indicate the dogs may have been left in the car overnight for nearly 8 hours. Ten of the 13 puppies died or had to be euthanized following the incident. Springfield Police continue to investigate.

 Authorities in southwest Missouri are investigating the drowning death of a 4-year-old child.

 Police from Aurora and Marionville, Missouri, responded to calls of a child found unconscious in the swimming pool of a residence on Monday evening. Efforts were made to revive the child, who was taken to a nearby hospital, where she was pronounced deceased. Authorities have called the child's death a tragic accident and no wrong-doing is suspected.

 A 26-year-old Bartlesville man faces burglary in the second degree and larceny shoplifting charges in Washington County, Oklahoma.

 Hugo Ramos is accused of taking a television worth nearly $250 dollars from Walmart on July 5^th. Ramos is also accused of breaking into an apartment he had been evicted from on July 11^th.

He is being held on a $15,000 bond.

 A Bartlesville woman faces charges of fentanyl trafficking.

 45-year-old Michelle Sandberg was arrested Monday following reports of a domestic disturbance. During that investigation, officers discovered a plastic baggie containing a white substance on her person. The substance turned out to be be fentanyl.

Sandberg's bond was set at $50,000 dollars. Her next court date is set for August 9^th.

Tribal members and citizens of the Cherokee Nation, Chickasaw Nation, Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Muscogee Nation and very soon the Seminole Nation can utilize their tribal membership to enjoy hunting and fishing in participating tribes’ treaty territories.

The Inter-Tribal Council of the Five Civilized Tribes announced the Five Tribe Wildlife Management Reciprocity Agreement at its July quarterly meeting at the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tulsa late last week. The agreement allows hunting and fishing licenses issued through each tribe to be recognized by the other tribes that are party to the agreement, on respective reservation land. Most tribes allow for their tribal membership cards to serve as their credential or license.

All Oklahoma residents with valid state-issued hunting and fishing licenses are eligible to hunt and fish within these tribal treaty territories in accordance with all applicable laws. Hunting and fishing licenses were made available to tribal members and citizens in October 2022.

A Cherokee County man is arrested for sex crimes.

Just before 8:00pm Tuesday, Cherokee County deputies were dispatched to a Weir residence. As a result of their investigation, 60-year-old Francisco Torres, of Weir, was taken into custody near the scene. Torres is suspected of approaching a senior while she was outside her home gardening and attempting to sexually assault her.

He is being held in the Cherokee County Jail on allegations of criminal restraint, assault and sexual battery.

Two are injured in a shooting in Independence.

Yesterday evening, Independence Police officers were dispatched to a shots fired call in the 400 block of West Locust Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered evidence indicating that a shooting had happened at the location. Officers were informed that two people had arrived at different nearby hospitals with gunshot wounds. Both victims were involved in the shooting incident at the 400 block of West Locust.

The incident is currently under investigation as authorities work to determine the circumstances that led to the shooting. IPD is asking anyone in that area to check surveillance cameras and notify them if anything that may be relevant to the case is observed. Anyone with information regarding this incident is encouraged to contact IPD at (620)332-1700.

The Salvation Army's Christmas in July is coming up this weekend. Organizer Joe Brooks says they will be set up at two locations on Saturday.

Brooks says they have plenty of bell ringers lined up for King Food Saver but are looking for help at Walmart.  Brooks says after the Summer Celebration they are about halfway to their $1000 challenge goal.

 Yesterday saw a contentious meeting of Commissioners in Osage County, Oklahoma.

 Issues began in the new business part of the meeting when Commissioner Charlie Cartwright informed the commission that one of its member attempted to put an item on the agenda and had that request denied by County Clerk Robin Slack.

Tempers continued to flare as the commission attempted to hire Stacey Brace as a new commission assistant. Before a vote could be taken, a member of the audience asked for the item to be tabled for a week. That request also made commissioners bristle.

The motion to approve Brace was approved. Brace was fired from working in the county clerk's office earlier this year. The commission also heard updates on the courthouse annex project

 The Washington County Commissioners approved renewing an agreement on Monday to provide a sheriff's deputy as a school resource officer for Copan Public Schools.

 Washington County Sheriff Scott Owen says this is similar to what has occurred previously.

Sheriff Owen says the agreement may change during or after the school year, as he has heard Copan Schools is looking to hire their own campus police unit.

The commissioners also approved a contract for law enforcement services at the Delaware Tribe of Indians Tribal Headquarters in for various functions, such as security during Tribal Council meetings and events held at the headquarters in northeast Bartlesville. Additionally, a contract was agreed upon for juvenile detention services and transporting juveniles between those facilities and court hearings back in Washington County.

 President Joe Biden has approved Governor Laura Kelly's request for a federal disaster declaration following severe weather in central and southeast Kansas earlier this year.

 Governor Kelly made the request for aid on June 26 after storms from April 25-30 caused damage in several Kansas counties. The declaration allows for state and local governments along with certain private and non-profit groups to apply for public assistance funds to help repair or replace items damaged during the storms.

Included in the declaration are Allen, Chautauqua, Bourbon, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Neosho, and Wilson counties.

 The Board of Trustees for Independence Community College hears good news about summer enrollment.

 At Monday's (July 15, 2024) meeting, ICC President Dr. Jonathan Sadhoo tells trustees that summer enrollment numbers are heading in the right direction.

The Board of Trustees also voted to approve retaining courses of study in criminal justice, social science, visual art, pre-nursing, and athletic training. The next ICC board meeting will be August 19^th

 An attempted traffic stop leads to a brief high-speed chase for the Kansas Highway Patrol.

 A KHP officer attempted to pull over a van yesterday evening around 8:30pm, after noticing a stolen tag on the vehicle. Instead of pulling over, the van fled and the officer pursued. During the chase, the van struck another vehicle, but continued on into the city of Wichita. The van then failed to negotiate a curve, left the roadway and overturned. Both the driver and the passenger sustained serious, but non-life threatening injuries. There were no injuries in the first crash caused by the van. The van was later discovered to be stolen. No names have yet been released as the investigation continues.

 A Missouri man is saved from drowning by a group of bystanders.

 72-year-old Thomas Forehand of Joplin was kayaking on the James River just north of Galena, MO, on Saturday afternoon when his kayak flipped, causing him to fall overboard. Forehand then became pinned under a log. Four nearby men – identified as Dakota Bilyeu, Bobby Taylor, Justin DeAtley and Jimmy DeAtley – noticed the man was in distress and went into the water after him. Witnesses say the four worked to pull Forehand from the water and carried him to safety on the beach. Reports indicate Forehand was not breathing but was revived by first aid efforts. He was taken to a nearby hospital where he was treated and released. Forehand was able to attend his family reunion the next day.

Stone County, Missouri, Sheriff Doug Rader credits the River Patrol for their quick response in getting Forehand to the hospital and called his four rescuers heroes.

 The City of Miami, Oklahoma, receives a $6.3 million FEMA grant for Roadway Flooding Improvement.

 The grant is the largest the city has ever received and it comes through the Federal Emergency Management Agency and Oklahoma Emergency Management. The money is ear-marked to build hazard mitigation projects at five flood prone locations in Miami. The project will be conducted in two phases: Phase One is design and engineering and Phase Two is construction. The entire project is estimated to take three years to complete.

Mayor Bless Parker stated that the city had been working to secure the grant for several years and credited City Grant Coordinator Glenda Longan and new City Manager Tyler Cline for their efforts on the project.

 A Bartlesville man is arrested for illegally growing marijuana.

 According to an arrest affidavit, Corey Fehr was arrested July 7th after police showed up to Therapeutic Cultivations in Bartlesville due to possible growing without Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics registration.

The OBN conducted the search and found 222 live plants and approximately 290 pounds. Fehr is currently being held over on a $30,000 bond. 

Several items were tackled at the first Cherryvale City Commission meeting without Jonathan Booe as city administrator.

Two recommendations of the planning and zoning commission were approved, including rezoning to allow pet goats at 509 E 1^st Street for Dennis and Dorothy Patry, and approval of a home occupancy application for Darrell Linder for a home-based bait, tackle and gun shop.

In other businesses, the council heard an update on city buildings, approved opening bids for dozer work at Lake Tanko, the bush dump and Highway 169 property. In addition, the council approved opening the bid process to remove metal and debris from properties purchased at the county tax sale. An abatement of public nuisance at 135 W Whelan Street was approved, and the council met in executive session for more than 30 minutes with former Interim Coffeyville City Manager Tim Wilson, as well as a separate session with City Clerk Karen Davis. No action was taken during either executive session.

The heat wave will last one more day before we get a break in the high temperatures.

A heat advisory will be in effect for southeast Kansas, most of Oklahoma, southern Missouri and all of Arkansas today. The advisories start between 11 and 1 p.m. and will last until 8 p.m. Coffeyville is expected to see a high of 99 with a heat index up to 109 today.

There's also a marginal chance of scattered severe weather tonight after 5 as a cold front approaches the area. The primary hazards include high winds and quarter-size hail. KGGF will provide severe weather coverage if needed tonight.

The Altamont fire chief resigns.

In a letter to Labette County commissioners, Altamont Fire Chief Bryson Shaffer says after the zoning decision at last Monday's commission meeting he has come to the realization that his efforts are no longer needed, and he feels like his voice is no longer heard. At the July 8^th meeting the Labette County Commission voted 2-1 to adopt county-wide zoning regulations. Shaffer says he was a fourth-generation fire chief for Altamont and has spent over 25 years with the department.

Keith Shaffer, a board member of the Labette County 911 Committee, the Labette County Fire Chiefs Coordinator and the County First Responders representative, also emailed commissioners a resignation letter. The Altamont Fire Department serves as mutual aid for the City of Parsons and the volunteer fire departments for the entire county. 

Bryson Shaffer's Resignation letter can be seen here.

 Montgomery County loses another high level employee.

 At Monday's (July 15, 2024) County Commission meeting Public Works Director Jim Wright submitted his resignation.
 

Wright's resignation comes on the heels of the resignation of Director of Human Resources Ben Brubaker, who recently left to take the position as City Manager in Coffeyville.

(Photo: Montgomery County Commission Chair Mike Cordray (l) and Jim Wright (r) at an employee recognition ceremony in May 2024. Photo courtesy Montgomery Couny, KS)

 Drivers in Independence will soon have better roads in the downtown area.

 The City is preparing to award a contract for a paving project on Main Street between 2^nd and 8^th Streets. Bids for the project have already been received by the city, but all of them came in for more than the original estimates. City engineer John Garris says, the reason for the increase is simply because materials are more expensive.

The City had considered re-bidding the project but decided against that course of action because the costs were unlikely to change. Garris adds that, once the work begins, it will take place mostly at night to minimize the effect of traffic.

 Property taxes and home valuations have been on the rise across the country and particularly here in southeast Kansas.

 Montgomery County Appraiser Melody Kiikert spoke at First Friday in Independence last week, addressing the topic of increases in property valuations by the county. Kikkert says that the appraiser's office focuses on mass appraisal, which is different from the way banks assess property value. She says it's all based on market value.

Kikkert says that means the appraisal may change even if you haven't made any improvements to your home or property.

Property owners can learn more about their appraisals by contacting the county appraiser's office. They are open Monday through Friday from 8am to 5pm and is located in the Montgomery County Courthouse in Independence.

To access the County's parcel search site, go here.

**UPDATE** The child has been found safe and the father is in custody.
 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issues an AMBER Alert for a Wichita 2-year-old.

Ryan Ramones was reported to have been taken from his mother by his father, 25-year-old Richard Ramones around 11:30pm last night. The KBI says Ramones physically assaulted the mother before fleeing on foot in the are of the Farmington Place Apartments near Central and Ridge Road. The child is believed to be in danger. Two-year-old Ryan was last seen wearing a gray t-shirt with Mickey Mouse on the front.

Anyone with information on the child or his location should call 9-1-1

 Authorities in Benton County, Arkansas, respond to reports of a weekend drowning.

 The Hickory Creek Fire Department responded around 6:30 Saturday evening to the Hickory Creek Day Use Area about 7 miles southeast of Rogers. The victim was recovered from the water around 10:45pm. The Benton County Sheriff's Office say the victim is an area teen. The name of the victim has not been released.

 A 30-year-old Sand Springs man is dead after a single vehicle motorcycle crash in Mayes County, Oklahoma.

 The accident occurred early yesterday morning when Cale Turner lost control of his 2005 Harley Davidson motorcycle while traveling along New Prue Road. The cycle veered off of the roadway into the ditch. Turner was transported to St. John's Hospital in Tulsa where he later succumbed to his injuries.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

 A small aircraft is damaged after a weekend accident near Winfield.

 The plane – a 2004 Series 7 KitFox - was piloted by 60-year-old John Swofford of Fort Worth, TX, and was en route to a final destination of Fort Worth when it landed at Strother Field around 2:15 on Friday afternoon. After the plane landed, a gust of wind caused the plane to lose control and the pilot was unable to correct. The small plane came to rest on a grass embankment and sustained major damage to the prop and left wing. The pilot was uninjured.

There are a pair of important election dates in Chautauqua County this week, in preparation for the August Primary.

Tomorrow, July 16th, is the deadline to register to vote or update voter registration information, in order to participate in the primary election.

Wednesday July 17th is the first day of advance voting. For questions or additional information, contact County Clerk Niki Collier at 620-725-5800, or by visiting the election office at 215 N Chautauqua Street in Sedan.

The commissioners also began work on organizing the county budget during this week's meeting. Commissioner Rodney Shaw says he'd rather cut back in other areas, than raise taxes for the county.

The Chautauqua County Commission meets next on July 22nd at 8:30 a.m. in the County Courthouse in Sedan.

Another hot day is in store for the area, with heat advisories in place for the entire four-state area.

A high of 102 is expected for Coffeyville, with a heat index of 109 possible.  Further south, portions or northeast Oklahoma including Washington, Nowata and Craig Counties and areas south are included in an excessive heat warning through 8 p.m.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is warning residents of a scam currently affecting the community.

Unknown individuals are posing as local law enforcement officers and contacting residents, claiming they were served with a subpoena several months ago and missed their court date. These scammers are demanding money and threatening an arrest if the payment isn't made. The scammers are requesting cash and arranging meetings at various locations to collect the money. Some residents have already fallen victim to this scam. The scammers are using blocked phone numbers and sending texts to carry out these activities.

If anyone receives a phone call, text or voicemail from someone claiming to be a law enforcement officer verify their identity by contacting the local law enforcement agency directly. No law enforcement will never call asking for money or threatening arrest for non-payment.

The 8^th Annual Summer Celebration is in the books, and organizers are happy with the results.

Walter Johnson Park became increasingly busy during the late afternoon and evening for the fireworks, but Organizer Gail Smith says he's pleased with the day's full lineup of events.

Coffeyville Municipal Band Director Dr. David Wiggins says their morning concert went well.

Wiggins also says the band is looking for more venues for additional future concerts.

The morning car show also brought out a good crowd according to organizer Curtis Foster.

The evening culminated with a fireworks show that lasted around 30 minutes. Next year's Summer Celebration will take place on July 12^th at Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville.

A Parsons man is arrested under the Parsons Register Offender Program.

41-year old Brandon Scott Pyle was arrested on two counts of Violation of Sex Offender Registration. The arrest occurred during a routine compliance check conducted by the program. Pyle was convicted on March 18, 2016, for distribution of child pornograph. This conviction requires Pyle to register as an offender.

PROP is committed to ensuring the safety and security of the community by conducting regular compliance checks on registered offenders. Pyle is currently in custody awaiting formal charges through the Labette County Attorney's Office.

Summer Celebration Organizer Gail Smith is honored at this year's event.

While taking the stage before the fireworks, Smith was surprised by an award handed out by KGGF's James Copeland.

The award was organized by Summer Celebration volunteers on behalf of the citizens of Coffeyville in an attempt to recognize Smith who has been instrumental in organizing and coordinating the event. The event had its beginnings with picnics in Dearing, then gatherings at Smith's house and now has grown to fill Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville.

Photo Courtesy: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

 Representative Ron Estes released the following statement after Saturday's shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

 "Like many across our country, I was shocked by the horrific scene in Pennsylvania. Secret Service and law enforcement acted quickly, and I'm thankful for the men and women who neutralized the shooter, preventing further harm. Susan and I are grateful that President Trump appears to be safe, and are praying for other attendees, including the family of those who may have been injured or killed. There is no place for political violence in the United States."

Ron Estes is a Republican who represents Kansas’ 4th Congressional District 

Senate Pro Tem Greg Treat has released the following statement after learning about the violent incident at President Donald Trump's rally on Saturday afternoon. 

“My prayers are with President Trump and hope for a speedy recovery after being shot at this afternoon during his rally. This is an act of senseless violence that should never be tolerated. The Secret Service, law enforcement and first responders are all owed a special debt of gratitude for their quick response, as we continue to get more details on this heartbreaking incident.”

Treat is a Republican Senator from Oklahoma City

 Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond made the following remarks following an assassination attempt on President Trump Saturday during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

 “The bullets of madmen have altered the course of American history many times, but not today. Thank God President Trump is safe. Amid reports of multiple injuries and possible fatalities at this horrific shooting, every American must reject political violence and resolve to settle our policy differences at the ballot box. The future of our Republic depends on it.”

 Following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday, former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt issued the following statement:

 “Join me in praying for our nation, for all affected by this senseless act, for law enforcement officers who put duty above self, and for President Trump. We need his leadership now more than ever. The People, not violent criminals, will decide our great nation's path forward. May God bless America."

Schmidt is currently a Republican candidate for Kansas' 2^nd Congressional District.

Popcorn was popping inside the Midland Theater concessions stand over the weekend as crowds swarmed downtown for this year's summer movie night.

Guests had the chance to tour the newly-rennovated front of house and purchase items from the concessions stand during the showing of the original Twister.

News on 6 Meteorologist Aaron Reeves and storm tracker Kevin Tillotson gave a presentation on severe weather and lots of kids won prizes during the trivia contest.  

The Midland's next event is Vaude in the Ville coming up on August 10th, which is a vaudeville-style show that will be performed at the Spencer Rounds Theatre on the CCC Campus and serves as the main fundraiser for the group's operations budget.

Local fire departments had multiple calls over the weekend.

Early Saturday morning around 2:15, the Dearing Fire Department was called to assist Liberty Fire with a fully-involved garage fire north of the Coffeyville refinery.

Later that morning just after 4 a.m., a fully-involved house fire at 112 Hill Street in Dearing was reported with possible entrapment, and several units from the Dearing Fire Department responded to the scene. The occupant made it out of the house with minor injury. Units assisting during the morning included the Coffeyville Fire Department, South Coffeyville Fire Department, Tyro Rural Fire Dept, Independence KS Rural Fire Department, Coffeyville Resources Fire Department, Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and the Coffeyville Police Department.

Photo Courtesy: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

 Fans of Disney's Frozen will have a chance to see it onstage this weekend in Fredonia.

 The Fredonia Arts Council Summer Theater will stage their production of the popular Disney show tonight and tomorrow. There are three performances over two days. This evening's first performance is a dinner theater show at 5:30pm. Tickets are $15 for adults and $12 for kids and includes a spaghetti dinner and the show. The second show is at 7pm tonight and a the third is a matinee show at 3pm tomorrow. Tickets for those shows are $5 for adults and $4 for kids.

All performances will be in the Fredonia High School Theater.

 A man named in a sexual assault lawsuit against a Greenwood, Arkansas, preschool face news charges in an unrelated case.

 Booking record in the Sebastian County Sheriff's Office show that 55-year-old Jaime Sparks was arrested yesterday on charges of assaulting a minor on July 3^rd. He is currently being held on a $100,000 bond.

Sparks has also been named in two lawsuits against Miss Tina's Preschool in Greenwood, which alleges the school knowingly allowed a convicted child predator to be around kids at the school leading to long term abuse.

Sparks is registered as a level two sex offender stemming from a 1993 conviction. His next court date is set for July 17^th

 A federal judge has ruled that there is no discrimination in the Dodge City City Commission elections.

 U.S. District Judge Eric Melgren ruled that the city's practice of electing all of its city commissioners at-large instead of via a voting district does nto prevent minority candidates from holding office. The lawsuit was filed in 2022 by two Latino residents who argued the process violated the U.S. Constitution and the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

In his decision Judge Melgren noted that a review of elections since 2014 showed candidates backed by the highest percentage of Latino voters won about half of the time. The population of Dodge City is about 64% Latino.

 Authorities in Wichita are looking to identify a man found floating in the Arkansas River Thursday afternoon.

 Wichita Police along with the Wichita Fire Department responded to a call of a body floating in the waters of the Arkansas River. Crews pulled the body from the river and discovered a male who appears to be in his late 30s.

Authorities are not sure how the man ended up in the river, but foul play is not suspected at this time.

The investigation is ongoing.

 At this week's Neodesha City Commission, commissioners got an earful from citizens regarding the number of rundown houses in poor condition in the city.

 One citizen says he thinks it's currently the biggest issues faced by the city.

Mayor Devin Johnson says the city does take the issue seriously, stating that it seems like the least that can be asked of homeowners.

Johnson says the city has implemented several new ordinances with the aim of improving houses in Neodesha and that City Manager Brogan Jones is meeting with officials in Independence today in an effort to model their approach to the issue. The Neodesha City Commission then approved several measures to take abatement action against four dangerous structures in the city.

 A pair of Parsons High School students are celebrating after a second place finish at a national competition.

 The duo of Antonio Aita and Conner Barcus recently competed at the Technology Student Association Conference in Orlando, Florida, where they placed second in the Debating Technical Issues category. In the competition, teams draw a topic and then have 15 minutes to prepare for the debate. Topics they debated for their second place finish included autonomous cars and renewable energy

Conner Barcus was the alternate for Jayce Quirin, who partnered with Aita to win the competition at the state level to qualify them for nationals.

The competition included 9,000 students from all 50 states as well as students from Germany, Turkey, South Korea, and American Samoa.

Aita and Barcus are the first USD 503 students to place at the national competition.

 Seven people in southwest Missouri have been indicted on federal charges related to the distribution of methamphetamine.

 According to authorities, the defendants include 36-year-old Wilbert Pacheco-Salazar of Springfield; 35-year-old Frank Lee Chapman and 51-year-old Omar Rosales-Olmos, both of Joplin; 42-year-old Jaime (Hi-may) Francisco-Figueroa and 32-year-old Isaac Alan Schilling, both a Carthage; 47-year-old Evan Lance Masters of Sarcoxie; and 52-year-old Indelfonso Vasquez-Martinez, a Mexican national.

Court document indicate that the group is accused of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Greene, Jasper, Newton, and Vernon counties in southwest Missouri between January 1, 2020 and May 1, 2024. Vasuqez-Martinez and Rosales-Olmos also face charges of conspiracy to commit money laundering relating to drug trafficking proceeds.

The investigation was conducted by the Springfield Police Department, the DEA, the ATF, and local sheriff's departments. It is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces operation aimed at dismantling high-level criminal organizations.

Commercial Bank was recognized by the Independence Chamber for 150 years Friday morning.  Chuck Goad of the bank accepted a plaque from Chamber president Lisa Wilson at the Chamber’s First Friday at Memorial Hall this morning.

Goad accepted the plaque then spoke about changes in the industry and then rise of fraud and scams with the prevalence of on line banking.  Other speakers at the event included Andy Taylor who spoke eloquently about the “Stuff the Bus” effort to provide much needed school supplies for children.

Mindy Blackard of FORPAZ spoke about their organization and invited people to join during their current membership drive  Then Montgomery County Appraiser, Melody Kikkert spoke to the audience about how appraisals are done           

 Human remains found in northeast Kansas are believed to be those of a missing Blue Rapids man.

 Agents from the Kansas Bureau of Investigation and deputies from the Marshall County Sheriff's Office discovered human remains while searching in rural Marshall County on Wednesday evening. The KBI's Crime Scene Response Team was called in to process the area, located northwest of Waterville, Kansas.

The remains are believed to be those of 36-year-old Camoran Shoptese.

Agents on the scene found evidence indicating that Shoptese had been murdered. A person of interest in the case is currently in custody on unrelated charges.

The case remains under investigation. Anyone with information on the case is asked to call the KBI at 1-800-KS-CRIME

 Tonight is Midland Theater Movie Night.

 Coffeyville Reawakening's Denise York says, come on down and enjoy the show.

York says they will also have some special guests attending tonight.

Activities begin at 6pm tonight in downtown Coffeyville.

Today is the final big day of events at the Cherryvale Youth Fair.

The day will begin with a breakfast for fair exhibitors, their families and fair sponsors at 8 a.m.

Starting at 9 a.m., the skillathon will be held at the Cherryvale Community Center two blocks south of the fairgrounds.

Entries for the adult bakeoff are due at noon, and the proceeds benefit the Landon Roberson and Brayden Yates Families.

Bucket Calf Interviews take place at 1 p.m., and the silent auction of the adult bakeoff items will be from 2 – 8 p.m. Livestock exhibitors will have a meeting in the show ring at 5:30 for a group picture, then livestock judging will take place at 6 p.m.

The much-anticipated kiss the goat contest will take place during the livestock show. At last count, Andy Taylor and Trey Newby are still in the lead, but Sheriff Ron Wade is not far behind. Donations to the contest will all go towards Deputy Justin Ward and his family.

Finally, there's also a free watermelon feed at 5:30 tonight and the FFA alumni BBQ at 6 p.m. as well.

The fair wraps up tomorrow with cleanup and pickup of livestock and exhibits.

Seven positions are expected to be laid off at the John Deere plant in Coffeyville next month.

These layoffs locally coincide with over 900 layoffs across four plants in Illinois and Iowa.  UAW Local 2366 President Justin Martin releases a statement on the local layoffs.

The layoffs in Coffeyville are effective August 9^th, while those at East Moline, Illinois and Dubuque and Davenport, Iowa are effective August 30^th. The over 300 layoffs in Waterloo, Iowa are effective September, 20^th.

In a statement to the Des Moines Register, John Deere says these changes are being made due to reduced demand for the products produced at these facilities. Industry sales are expected to decline 20% from 2023 to 2024.

The Cherryvale Youth Fair holds a Kiss the Goat fundraiser to support Deputy Justin Ward.

Fair Organizer Jackie Chandler says there are donation jars set up at the fair for each participant.  Deputy Ward was injured while on duty in a car accident in early April. Chandler says there's a reason they chose a goat for the fundraiser.  

Chandler says if you can't donate in person contact them through the Cherryvale Youth Fair Facebook page. The kissing of the goat will happen during the livestock show at around 7:30pm tomorrow.

The 2024 Cherryvale Youth Fair is underway at Logan Park. Check-ins started earlier this morning for inside exhibits and livestock, with the rabbit and poultry show taking place yesterday.

Exhibitor Maggie Chandler says the Cherryvale Youth Fair is a fair all about learning.  Chandler is a CYF veteran participating in her 12^th fair since getting her start at the age of five. She says it is her favorite fair.  

The Youth Exhibitor Baked Goods Auction starts tonight at 7:30pm and the silent auction for the Adult Bakeoff is from 2:00pm to 8:00pm tomorrow. The Livestock Show starts at 6:00pm tomorrow with the bucket calf show followed by dairy goats, market goats, sheep, dairy cattle, beef and then swine.

 It's time for Coffeyville's 8^th Annual Summer Celebration.

 It happens Saturday at Walter Johnson Park starting a 8am. Event Organizer Gail Smith says there will be lots of family fun. In addition to live music and the kiddie car show, there will be plenty of vendors, games for the kids, and plenty for the grown-ups, too. Plus, the largest fireworks show in southeast Kansas. Smith says everything at Summer Celebration except for what the vendors sell, is free. Smith does warn that there have been some scammers trying to charge vendors and others for the event.

Join the fun Saturday starting at 8am until the fireworks end at Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville.

 Coffeyville's Hops Around Town Festival is coming up in October, but the opportunity to get discount tickets only happens for one day and that day is tomorrow.

 Chamber President Candi Westbrook says there are two ways to get tickets.

Tickets can also be purchased in person at the Chamber Offices. After tomorrow, though, prices will go up to $30 for general admission and $50 for the VIP. Westbrook adds that there will be a lot of activities to enjoy.

Online discount tickets sales begin tonight at midnight.

 A Kansas man is running from Wichita to Denver to benefit a Denver child charity.

 Rick Wulf, of Cheney, Kansas, was inspired by his pastor at Trinity Christian United Church to volunteer at the Tennyson Center for Children in Denver. The Center has been helping children from five to ten years old who suffer from traumatic abuse for the past 20 years. Wulf decided he wanted to raise awareness and funds for the facility and the best way for him to do this was to run from Wichita to Denver.

His trip – which he calls “500 Miles of Hope” - began on July 2^nd and he plans to complete the 550 mile run on July 20^th. Wulf runs about 30 miles each day with the support of his wife Lori and other volunteers from his church. He has raised more than $10,000 for the center.

Wulf works as an assistant cross-country and track coach at Cheney High School and Middle School, just west of Wichita.

The Facebook page for his run can be found here.

Photo courtesy 500 Miles of Hope Facebook page

 The Kansas Department of Transportation announces railroad work to begin near Columbus starting on Monday.

 BNSF Railway will begin work on the railroad crossing on US-69 just south of the Columbus city limits. US-69 will be closed at the work zone and traffic will follow a posted detour. The work is expected to take three days.

Budget proposals were on the agenda at this week's Wilson County Commission meeting, with the commissioners hearing from both the Conservation District and Rural Fire.

County Conservation District Chairman Rod Vorhees presented the requested budget to the commisson. He says he is confident the operations budget request will be approved in full.

Vorhees also spoke on behalf of rural fire, requesting the identical $95,500 that was requested last year. He says a reason they are able to maintain the same budget is the increased restrictions on burns in the county.

Commissioners will meet with an appraiser next week regarding the county budget for the year.

Additional items of business at this week's meeting was an update on a bridge repair on Decatur Road near 850 Road, as well as early voting beginning next week for the August election.

 A house fire in Galena leaves a home in shambles and injures four firefighters.

 Cherokee County 911 was alerted to a house fire on East 2^nd Street Wednesday. The call came in around 12:30pm. The structure was fully engulfed in flames when fire crews arrived on scene, with the blaze burning with such intensity that the entire roof was destroyed. Due to that and the 90 degree heat, it took firefighters nearly three hours to control the blaze. Fire crews from Galena Fire, Baxter, Columbus, Carl Junction, and Quapaw responded along with Cherokee County EMS.

All residents of the house were able to safely escape. Four firefighters suffered injuries, including heat exhaustion. They were treated at the scene and released.

The State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the blaze.

 A new hospital is coming to southeast Kansas.

 Freeman Health System has announced plans to build a new. Full-service hospital in Frontenac. The new $168 million, 50-bed facility will offer a full array of comprehensive care, including an emergency department, cardiac services, an intensive care unit, maternity, pediatrics, outpatient/inpatient surgery, and oncology among other key services. Overall, the hospital will create at least 500 to 1,000 new jobs in Pittsburg.

 Freeman Health System President and Chief Executive Officer Paula Baker stated that the residents of southeast Kansas deserve the best care and that Freeman is committed to providing that care.

The new hospital will be called Freeman Southeast Kansas hospital.

Freeman already has a sizable footprint in Pittsburg, with several primary care clinics, an outpatient surgery center and a comprehensive medical oncology program. And earlier this year, Freeman announced that it will take over operations of the Ft. Scott-based emergency department and open a 10-bed acute hospital there.

 A former Nowata County Sheriff's deputy has been arrested facing one felony charge of embezzlement after a six-year-long investigation.

 The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation says Thomas Jay Campbell, Jr., of Nowata was arrested on July 3 in Craig County. The Nowata County Sheriff's Office contacted OSBI in January 2018 to investigate an embezzlement case.

In 2018, the Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector’s Office found that six firearms were missing from the Nowata County Sheriff’s Office. During the investigation, evidence led OSBI special agents to Campbell's residence. On June 26, 2024, a search warrant was served at the property, where one of the missing firearms was located.

Campbell was arrested and is facing one count of embezzlement in Nowata County District Court. He posted a $5,000 bond and is out of custody. Campbell's next court date is July 29.

 The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is offering a new program for homeowners.

 The new Home Away program will offer enhanced security for homeowners who are away on vacation. Residents will be able to request extra patrols around their homes while they are away.

The purpose of the program is to deter criminal activity while providing residents added peace of mind.

The Cherryvale Youth Fair continues today with a full lineup of activities.

Today exhibitors can enter both inside and livestock exhibits starting at 8 AM. Inside exhibits must be entered by 11 a.m.

Dr. Paul Cotterill will be available for vet checks from 8 to 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 to 6 p.m. All livestock must have vet checks or health papers.

Matt Jordan will have coverage of the youth fair this morning from 10 to noon on US 98 with some updates during Open Line as well.  The remote is sponsored by Frontier Farm Credit in Parsons, Triple D Seed in Coffeyville, Dr. Hailey Mueller Veterinary Service, Community National Band & Trust in Cherryvale and Newton's True Value Hardware in Cherryvale.

A new activity this year is yard games will be available for all exhibitors to play from 1 to 4 p.m.

Wilson Medical Center will be passing out cool treats at 7 PM, and the market beef weigh in will be 7 pm as well.

The auction of exhibitors baked goods starts at 7:30 p.m. Proceeds from the auction helps pay for exhibitor's premium money, ribbons, judges and other fair expenses.  The fair is located in Logan Park and runs through Saturday.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will soon start a project to add passing lanes on both sides of U.S. 400 in Cherokee County.

Starting the week of July 22^nd, the project area will start 4 miles east of K-7 at Cherokee and continue east for 1.6 miles. Traffic will be carried through the project with lane shifts as needed. During later phases, a pilot car operation will intermittently control one-lane traffic in the work zone, with delays of 15 minutes or less expected during daylight hours. The road work should be completed by the summer of 2025, weather permitting. KDOT awarded the $7.2 million construction contract to Bettis Asphalt & Construction Inc. of Topeka.

Update: some residents in the surrounding blocks have been evacuated by the Coffeyville Fire Department. As of 7 p.m., several streets around the intersection remain blocked.

Original story:

Emergency crews and representatives from Atmos Energy are working to fix a gas leak in Coffeyville.

The 1400 Block of 8th near Buckeye is currently closed while crews work to find the source of a major gas leak in the area.  The leak was reported just after 5:20 this afternoon.

Please avoid the area until further notice.  KGGF Text Alert subscribers got this information first. Sign up for text alerts HERE.

An Oklahoma Senator takes to the Senate floor to honor and remember his former colleague.

Senator James Lankford says that former Senator Jim Inhofe wasn't only a colleague, but someone who helped him when he first came into office.  Inhofe served as a senator from 1994 to 2023. He passed away yesterday at the age of 89.

Get a free hot dog at Coffeyville's Summer Celebration this Saturday. Salvation Army's Joe Brooks says they'll be setup before noon giving out a free meal.

Brooks says they will have about 300 hot dogs to give away on Saturday. After the Summer Celebration this weekend, Christmas in July is coming up in Coffeyville next Saturday the 20^th.   

 Grammy award winner tenor of the Oak Ridge Boys, Joe Bonsall, passed away yesterday from complications associated with ALS. He was 76.

 Born in Philadelphia, Bonsall moved to Nashville, eventually joining the Oaks in 1973. He was a part of the group that transitioned from gospel to country music in the late 70's, with the song “Y'all Come Back Saloon” solidifying their debut in their new genre. He was the lead vocal on many of their biggest hits, including their 1981 signature song, “Elvira,” as well as songs like “Bobbie Sue”, “American Made”, and “I Guess It Never Hurts to Hurt Sometimes.”

 The Oak Ridge Boys were in the middle of their farewell tour when Bonsall announced his retirement, because of difficulties with ALS.

 Bonsall was a member of the Grand Ole Opry. He was inducted into the Philadelphia Music Hall of Fame, the Gospel Music Hall of Fame, the Vocal Group Hall of Fame and the Country Music Hall of Fame. His memoir, “I See Myself,” will be released in November. Bonsall is survived by his wife, Mary Ann; two daughters, a sister, two grandchildren, and two great grandsons.

* Photo by Daniel Tommasino

 The Kansas Primary election is coming up on August 6^th and so is the deadline to be able to vote in that primary.

 The deadline to be registered for the primary is next Tuesday, July 16^th. To register, you must be a U.S. citizen and a resident of Kansas who is at least 18 years of age on or before the next general election. You may need to re-register if you have changed your name, your address, or you party affiliation since the last time you voted.

For more information about Kansas voter registration, go here.

 The City of Nowata begins flushing fire hydrants.

 The process began on the east side of the city and crews will be working their way west. Customers in Nowata may experience low water pressure and cloudy or brown water. Customers who experience discoloration in their water should let the tap run until it clears.

Anyone with questions or concerns can call the Nowata City Hall at 918-273-3538

 The City of Independence is looking for volunteers to serve on two city boards.

 The Independence Tree Board has a current opening. The Tree board addresses the planting, maintenance, and removal of trees on public property. Nature enthusiasts and community-minded individuals are encouraged to apply.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the website and fill out this form. https://www.independenceks.gov/.../Board-Application-47

2. Submit your application by July 19, 2024

The city is also looking for someone to fill the open position on the Park Board. Board members have the opportunity to influence decisions and help shape the future of our beloved parks and zoo. The Park Board meets on the first Monday of each month at 5:30pm.

How to Apply:

1. Visit the website and fill out the application form at this link: https://www.independenceks.gov/.../Board-Application-47

2. Submit your application by July 19, 2024

 A West Mineral man faces weapons charges after Monday arrest. 

 Authorities in Cherokee County executed a search warrant on a home in rural Cherokee County Monday, July 8, 2024, between Scammon and West Mineral. Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputies arrested 28-year-old Mark Mauser in connection to a shooting incident in which Mauser is alleged to have fired rounds at a nearby home where several children were present. During the search, deputies located and seized several firearms.

Mauser has been charged with Criminal Discharge of a Firearm and three counts of Aggravated Child Endangerment.

 A Dewey man faces charges of assault on a police officer after an incident that occurred during the booking process on a separate charge.

 30-year-old Reynaldo Vasquez Junior was arrested on July 7th on the charge of child neglect and was being taken to the Washington County Jail in Bartlesville for booking. According to an affidavit, after arriving at the jail, Vasquez allegedly jerked and spun out of the hold of an officer and “intentionally” elbowed the officer in the left flank. He told police that it was an accident.

Vasquez is being held on a $20,000 bond and his next court date will be on July 19^th

 An Oklahoma man is injured while driving a go cart on a public street.

 The accident occurred just before 6 o'clock last night (Tuesday night) when 60-year-old Kevin Allen of Welch was driving a go cart northbound on 4450 Road near the Kansas/Oklahoma line or about 3 miles southeast of Chetopa. Allen failed to yield to oncoming traffic as he approached Treece Road and was struck by a 2008 Nissan driven by 20-year-old Chance Thomas of Oswego. Allen sustained serious injuries in the crash and was taken to Mercy Hospital in Joplin. Thomas was uninjured.

The Kansas Department of Transportation continues to seek input on the U.S. 69 Highway Study in Crawford County.

KDOT is hosting a second round of open houses this month to follow up on the events held in May. Officials will get additional input and identify priorities about the current challenges and opportunities for the roadway. The public is invited to attend one of the four in-person open houses, which will take place at different locations along the study area. Each open house will have the same information, and while there will be no formal presentation, team members will be available to gather input and answer questions. A virtual open house will also take place. The events will take place in Pittsburg, Frontenac, and Arma. A full list of times, dates and locations is available below:

Tuesday, July 23, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium, 503 N. Pine St., Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Tuesday, July 23, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Pittsburg High School, 1978 E. 4th St., Pittsburg, KS 66762.

Wednesday, July 24, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Palluccas Event Hall, 207 E. McKay St., Frontenac, KS 66763.

Wednesday, July 24, from 4 to 6 p.m.

Northeast High School, 1003 E. South St., Arma, KS 66712.

Virtual open house time and link:

Tuesday, July 30, 2024, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. (sign-in starts at 5)

LINK: tinyurl.com/29th3fae

The Coffeyville City Commission votes to establish a Community Improvement District for Coffeyville Plaza.

This establishes a one percent sales tax for the shopping center where Dollar Tree and King Food Saver are located. Gilmore and Bell Representative Garth Herrmann says the sales tax only applies to businesses in that shopping center.

The sales tax will help replenish the money spent, about two million dollars, on repairs to the parking lot, buildings or any other needed repairs done to the area by the property owner. The repairs and the approval of the CID are helping in the negations of two new businesses to the plaza. One has already signed a lease the second has not but neither business was named.

A candidate for Kansas' Second Congressional District picks up an endorsement from the National Rifle Association.

Candidate Derek Schmidt says he is honored to receive this endorsement.  Schmidt picked up endorsements from the Kansas Fraternal Order of the Police and the Kansas State Trooper's Association in June.

Construction and repairs are underway at South Coffeyville Public Schools. Superintendent Daryl Pruter says they had three water incidents that flooded the elementary in both May and June.

Pruter says while they are making the repairs they are also upgrading what they can.  Pruter says insurance will cover the water damage repairs which is around 40% of the cost and the school district will cover the rest.

There will be Active Shooter training tonight in Fredonia.

Beginning at 7 p.m., law enforcement will be at Fredonia High School covering the necessary steps needed in the case of an active shooter emergency. Law enforcement and other emergency services from other cities and counties will also be on the scene for the training.

Wilson County Dispatch warns citizens that there will be realistic sounds of an active shooter situation, so please be patient and aware of the situation.

For any questions, contact Wilson County Dispatch at 620-378-2369, or at 925 Pierce Street in Fredonia.

Former U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma has died. He was 89.

Inhofe served as a senator from 1994 to 2023. He is the longest-serving U.S. senator from Oklahoma. He was the mayor of Tulsa from 1978 to 1984 and served as a U.S. congressman from 1987 to 1994.

Inhofe also worked in aviation, real estate, and insurance; he was president of Quaker Life Insurance Company before entering politics.

In the senate, Inhofe was the powerful chairman of Armed Services Committee and the Environment and Public Works Committee. He was instrumental in securing additional water rights for the city of Bartlesville from Copan Lake.

Inhofe’s family issued the following statement:

"Oklahoma’s longest-serving United States Senator James M. Inhofe passed away at 4:48 am this morning after a sudden illness over the holiday.

"He passed peacefully, surrounded by his wife Kay, and his three surviving children, Molly, Jimmy and Katy. His son Perry passed away several years ago in a private airplane accident in Tulsa.

"Inhofe served his beloved state in many capacities over the years. Including in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, the Oklahoma State Senate, as Mayor of Tulsa, the U.S. House of Representatives and the U.S. Senate since 1994. He retired from the Senate in 2023.

"In the U.S. Senate he served as chairman of the Armed Services Committee and as Chairman of the Environment and Public Works Committee. The lifelong aviator once flew a small plane around the world and passed the Pilot’s Bill of Rights."

Congressman Josh Brecheen issued the following statement:

“I am very sad to hear of the passing of former Oklahoma United States Senator Jim Inhofe. Jim and his family devoted nearly sixty years of public service for the people of Oklahoma. May the peace that only the Lord can provide be with the Inhofe family during this difficult time.”

Congressman Kevin Hern issued the following statement:

“Senator Jim Inhofe was a dear friend and mentor, a titan in Oklahoma, and a highly effective leader in DC. Tammy and I are keeping Kay and the rest of the Inhofe family in our prayers. Jim spent his life in service to his country, both in uniform and in the halls of Congress. He will always be remembered as a fighter, especially for our military service members. Jim’s legacy of service, leadership, and faith reflect the Oklahoma Standard and the pride he held in his work. Along with the family, friends, and many Oklahomans who knew and loved him, I mourn the loss of a great man.”

Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat issued the following statement:

“Senator Inhofe was a resolute Republican who served his state and nation for nearly six decades in various roles. Unwavering in his beliefs and conservative values, he championed many causes during his career, including his support for the military, national defense and infrastructure. His dedication and influence in shaping policies in both Oklahoma and on a national level have left a lasting impact. My wife Maressa and I send our heartfelt condolences and prayers to his family and many friends.”

Oklahoma House Democratic Leader Cyndi Munson issued the following statement:

“My condolences go out to the family and friends of Senator Jim Inhofe. He was a tenacious leader, state representative, and United States Senator who stood firm in his convictions. He bravely served our country in more ways than one and has left a long-lasting impact on the State of Oklahoma.”

Oklahoma House Majority Floor Leader Jon Echols issued the following statement:

“Few have done more than James Mountain Inhofe for the people of Oklahoma. From supporting countless miles of infrastructure development, standing up for Oklahoma farmers and ranchers, his commitment to our men and women in uniform, or his unwavering commitment to conservative values, and so much more, Oklahoma lost an irreplaceable legend.”

 A boater saves two people when their small plane crashes in an Oklahoma lake.

 An Ultralight plane crashed into Lake Carl Blackwell west of Stillwater on Saturday. The survivors were uninjured in the crash but were taken to a Stillwater hospital as a precautionary measure.

Divers from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol were called to the scene to help remove the plane from the water, where it floated, partially submerged and upside-down.

The crash is being investigated by the Federal Aviation Administration.

 An early morning house fire in Moline leaves a home with substantial damage.

 The City of Moline states via their Facebook page that fire crews responded to a structure fire early this morning. Crews arrived at 4^th and Biddle Streets to find a home engulfed in flames. Fire crews were able to quickly extinguish the fire. The house was vacant at the time and no injuries were reported.

Photo courtesy City of Moline

 The Board of Osage County, Oklahoma, Commissioners convened for a regularly scheduled meeting at the fairgrounds, which was followed by an important specially called meeting to find a temporary health care provider for the Osage County Jail.

At last week's meeting, the Board had approved a contract with Turn Key Health to become the health care provider for the jail for the 2024-2025 fiscal year. The county discovered that they wouldn't be able to start until mid-July, if not a little bit later though, leaving the county scrambling to find someone to provide that aid for the inmates. That is why at Monday's meeting, they were looking to sign an agreement with Theresa Flowerette to provide medical oversight for that time. Jail Administrator Darrell Jordan said there is a gap in that contract and it is imperative that they have a provider in place during that time. Jordan says commissioners have a couple of options.

The Board opted to sign that contract with Flowerette in the amount of $10,000. 

 Two investigators with the Washington County, Oklahoma, Sheriff's Department are assisting with reducing child exploitation and crimes against children in the state via the internet.

 The Washington County Commissioners approved a memorandum of understanding Monday morning for the Oklahoma Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force between the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the sheriff's office. The task force serves as a resource for federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. In return, the OSBI provides manpower, training, equipment, support and expertise needed to investigate technology-facilitated child sexual exploitation. Sheriff Scott Owen says the program is grant-funded and protects the children of Washington County.

The new memorandum of understanding will be in effect for another year.

 Montgomery County hears an update on area road work.

 At Monday's meeting, commissioners also heard from Public Works Director Jim Wright about the chip seal project on county roads.

Wright says work has just been comkpleted near Cherryvale and is currently happening near Elk City.

 The Nowata County Commissioners met Monday morning and covered several topics in the meeting. 

 County Clerk Kay Spurgeon announced a couple of donations, including one for the Nowata County Jail.
 

Spurgeon also later announced that the County Officers and Deputies Association membership dues are coming up this year and they have increased over $400 from last year to this year. Spurgeon explains the differences.

The County Commissioners will meet again next Monday at 9am. The meeting is open to the public.

 A Central Missouri firefighter has died during a swift water rescue attempt.

 The Boone County Fire Department says Assistant Chief Matt Tobben died yesterday morning during a rescue operation. Tobben and his fellow firefighters had already rescued two individuals when the rescue boat he was in overturned. Chief Tobben was thrown from the boat and drowned in the waters of Bear Creek, near Columbia, Missouri.

 Montgomery County gives and official welcome to the new County Administrator.

 The new Montgomery County Administrator Jonathan Booie officially took over his new position yesterday. While attending his first county commission meeting in his new role, Booie was introduced officially by commissioner Mike Cordray.

In other business at this week's meeting, commissioners heard an update from Director of Environmental Planning Matt Debo and GIS Director Anne Miller about a proposed annexation to the City of Independence

USD 446 is taking advantage of the summer months by completing maintenance around the district.

The July board meeting began with the reorganization of members to serve on different committees. Board President Scott Hines made the motion for the new assignments moving forward.

Superintendent Jason McAfee gave an update regarding summer maintenance being done at different buildings in the district. Flooring is set to begin at the Early Learning Center, while paint crews are working in Jefferson this week.

McAfee says another issue that's been addressed is an issue with the sewer line.

The USD 446 board will be having a special meeting tomorrow night at 5:30 p.m. to discuss property insurance options, and approve a contract moving forward.

The next school board meeting will be August 12th at 7 p.m. in the Community Room of Independence High School.

 A Person of Interest in a Monday morning shooting in Bartlesville is located in Kansas.

 45-year-old Thomas Conway was taken into custody yesterday evening in Wichita on charges of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm after a felony conviction, maintaining a dwelling to keep or sell controlled dangerous substances and unlawful use of a police scanner.

Conway is also wanted in Bartlesville in connection to the shooting death of 38-year-old Alexander Daugherty. Daugherty was found by Bartlesville Police around 1am on Monday morning, lying in an ally-way with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was taken to a nearby hospital where he later died from his wounds.

The Bartlesville Police Department is investigating the case.

Photo courtesy Bartlesville Police Department

 The Kansas Department of Transportation approves several area highway construction and maintenance projects.

 Repair projects approved in southeast Kansas include nearly $180,000 in Greenwood County for a bridge over the Verdigris River on US-54 just west of the Greenwood/Wilson County line. The state also approved a pavement marking project in Labette County on US-59 for $38,000. KDOT approved two projects in Wilson County. The first is a pavement marking project on US-400 near the K-47 junction for $47,000 and two bridge repair projects on US-400 for nearly $1.2 million.

 There's good news for Kansas drivers after the four-day July 4^th holiday.

 The Kansas Highway Patrol reports that they saw no fatal crashes over the long holiday weekend. That compares to two fatal crashes in 2023 and one in 2022. The number of speeding tickets issued was also down, with 1,085 citations issued. Overall, the highway Patrol assisted a total of 901 motorists over the holiday.

There will soon be work done to rural roads around Chautauqua County

The County Commission recently agreed to approve an application for the High Risk Rural Roads Project. Earlier this year, Governor Laura Kelly delegated more than $6.5 million in federal funds to rural projects around the state that will increase the safety and efficiency of local roadways.

The Kansas Department of Transportation recently changed their classification of roads that qualify for the HRRR program, now involving any roadway that has common crash-risk characteristics, regardless of accident history. Previous methods have been to analyze roads based on accident statistics, rather than accident potential.

Chautauqua County also agreed to approve Blue Cross and Blue Shield in the amount of $38,330.08, and Allied Claims in the amount of $4,838.30.

The commission will next meet on July 15th, at 8:30 a.m., in the Commission Room of the County Courthouse in Sedan.

 The switching from the 2023 to 2024 school year took place during last night's USD436 board meeting.

 Updates were also given on the remodeling of CV West. Superintendent Blake Vargas says he's pleased with the progress made in the last two months.

 Vargas says multiple projects are being tackled by the district during summer break, including roofing issues on the elementary and high school buildings. He says all district buildings will be impacted positively by the work being done.

 In other business, a committee was formed to begin the selection process for an architect for future district projects, so planning and budgeting can continue for the future. The committee hopes to have a recommendation for the board by next month's meeting.

The Kansas wheat harvest is wrapping up for the year.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, harvest is 92 percent complete, well ahead of 55 percent complete last year and 72 percent for the five-year average. Northwest Kansas has the most remaining wheat to be cut at 70 percent harvested.

Kansas had widespread rain over the weekend, which kept harvest on Monday at a standstill for many areas. Still, the southwest area is about 91 percent complete after beginning harvest early, during the first week of June compared to the normal Father’s Day start.

The Labette County Commission votes 2-1 to approve county-wide zoning regulations. This week's meeting location had to be moved to the courtroom to accommodate the overflowing crowd. Commissioner Vince Schibi says he's making his decision based on what he feels is best for the county.

Those opposed to the regulations made their final plea to the commission, but Commissioners Schibi and Terry Weidert decided to proceed with the motion to approve.

Zoning Administrator Mel Haas says the scope of the zoning regulations for conditional use applies to eleven different areas.  Once the regulations are officially published they will go into effect. Commissioner Schibi is not up for re-election this year but Commissioners Weidert and Cole Proehl are and both have opponents in the upcoming primary.

 Bartlesville Police are investigating after someone stole several American flags from outside of a downtown funeral home.

 Tim Howell with Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral Home says he was shocked when he learned of the theft.

Howell says he understands it might have been a prank, or that someone could have made a poor choice to do something like this.

If you have any information on the theft, call the Arnold Moore & Neekamp Funeral Home at 918-336-5225.

 An early morning shooting in Bartlesville leaves one man dead.

 The shooting occurred around 1am this morning (July 8, 2024), when officers were called to the 1400 block of West Hensley Street. Upon arrival, officer found a man lying in the alley with an apparent gunshot wound. The victim was transported to the hospital where he died from his injuries.

The shooting is under investigation by the Bartlesville Police Department Criminal Investigations Unit. Anyone with information on the shooting is asked to contact Bartlesville Police at 918-338-4001

 There are a couple of big events coming up in Coffeyville this week.

 Coffeyville Area Chamber President Candi Westbrook says the big summer party happens this weekend. While residents are looking forward to the Summer Celebration, it's not too early to think about Hops Around Town. The event happens in October, but Friday is the One Day sale to get great prices on tickets.

After Friday ticket prices go up to $30 for general admission and $50 for the VIP ticket. Tickets are available online or stop by the Chamber offices at 807 Walnut Street.

 A big street construction project gets underway today in Independence.