A Parsons man is arrested on multiple felony charges after making threats and breaking into a home.

Parsons Police officers responded to a report of trespassing at a residence in the 1800 block of Levy Avenue. Dispatch advised officers that the suspect had reportedly made suicidal statements and was self-harming. Upon arrival, officers made contact with the female reporting party and victim. She was visibly distressed and crying and informed officers that the suspect, later identified as 42-year-old Zachary Rowland Jr, had fled the scene on foot toward a wooded area and nearby railroad tracks.

The victim reported that Rowland had entered her residence without permission, made threats to harm himself and stabbed himself multiple times. She told officers that she feared for the safety of both her and her child, who also witnessed the incident. Parsons Police conducted a search of the area and located Rowland and transported him to the PPD Jail. He had no apparent self-inflicted stab wounds. Rowland is facing charges of aggravated burglary, aggravated robbery, criminal threat, aggravated endangering a child, domestic battery and aggravated intimidation of a witness.

If you rely solely on a NOAA weather radio for severe weather information, listen up.

The National Weather Service in Wichita is going through a scheduled update and will have to transfer control of its operations over to the backup office in Topeka next week. Because of this, NOAA weather radio stations in Kansas will be silent Monday, June 2nd through Wednesday, June 4th.

This includes Wichita, Beaumont, Sharon, Erie, Ellsworth and Great Bend stations. If you are in the Coffeyville area, your weather radio is probably tuned to Channel 2, which is the Bartlesville NOAA transmitter, and your reception will be unaffected. Depending on where you live, you may run into reception issues next week. While you may be able to tune to another NOAA weather station, The National Weather Service says this is a reminder to have multiple ways to receive warning information, some of which include local radio and TV and free text alerts like offered through KGGF.

The forecast office in Wichita, KS will remain open and staffed through the period for public and partner phone calls and additional functions. KGGF has multiple ways to receive and relay warning information, so there will be no impact should severe weather strike the area.

The Independence Children's Summer Theater will have a special performance today.

The group will perform the Three Piggy Opera as a part of their Summer Theater Camp. Campers will star in the production that was staged with help from seven high school aged students and put together in only three days. In June, the Children's Summer Theater Group will stage three productions including Charlotte's Web, Alice in Wonderland and Beetlejuice.

Today's special performance by Independence Children's Summer Theater will be at 11:30 in the William Inge Theater on the ICC Campus.

The Independence Public Library is set to kick off its summer reading program this weekend.

Join the Independence Public Library on Sunday for the Summer Reading Kick Off at the Park. The family event takes place at the Shelter House and will feature food along with free mini-golf, train rides, and carousel rides. Plus, everyone can sign up for the Summer Reading Challenge. All who sign up will be eligible to win door prizes. The kick off runs from 4 to 7pm on Sunday.

In other library news, the Independence Public Library will be closed today in order to allow staff to attend a funeral.

A suspect is in custody following a police pursuit in Crawford County.

The incident began when Crawford County sheriff's deputies responded to a report of property damage at a rural residence near Pittsburg. Witnesses at the scene told law enforcement that a Red Ford Explorer had driven onto their property, struck a tree, and then fled the scene.

While deputies were investigating, the suspect vehicle drove by the scene. A police chase then ensued. Deputies chased the suspect through the city of Pittsburg, before the man abandoned his vehicle and ran into a house.

After a brief altercation, the suspect was tasered and then arrested. He was taken to the Crawford County Jail and booked on charges that include DUI, fleeing and eluding, and leaving the scene of an accident.

A Miami woman is sentenced to 20 years in prison for her role in a 2021 murder.

54-year-old Charlana Nichelle Kelly entered a guilty plea in February to charges of accessory to felony murder for her role in the shooting death of Toni Elizabeth Moran, whose body was discovered near a pond in Ottawa County in November 2021. Kelly was sentenced on Tuesday to 20 years in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections with all but the first five years of the sentence suspended.

Court documents indicate that Kelly's husband, Jimmy Kelly Jr., had been in a romantic relationship with Moran that began when the two were both in prison. Jimmy Kelly then arranged for a meeting between the two women. During that meeting, an argument ensued that resulted in Moran being shot. Jimmy Kelly pleaded guilty to second-degree murder in the case in 2023. He has been sentenced to more than 25 years in prison for his role in the crime.

An Independence woman is sentenced to life in prison without parole for 25 years for sex crimes against a child.

35-year-old Madeline Nichole Traughber entered a plea of no contest to charges of aggravated indecent liberties with a child on Tuesday in a Montgomery County courtroom. A no-contest plea allows the defendant to accept the legal consequences of a charge without admitting guilt. The judge, F. William Cullins, then sentenced Traughber to what is known as the Kansas Hard 25, which means she will spend 25 years in prison before being eligible for parole. If parole is eventually granted, Traughber would remain under lifetime parole supervision. She is also required to register as a sex offender.

Court documents indicate that the crimes Traughber was accused of occurred between January 1, 2023, and November 29, 2024, and involved a child under 14 years of age.

The Grow at Eden child care provider is named as one of four groups set to receive state grant funding to assist with early childhood care.

The Child Care Zones grant comes through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment through its Child Care Matters initiative and in collaboration with All In For Kansas Kids. The funding for the program comes through the federal $21 million Preschool Development Birth through Five Renewal Grant that was awarded to the state in 2024. The goal of the grant funding is to expand and improve child care for Kansas families.

Grow at Eden serves Labette, Allen, Crawford, and Neosho counties and has locations in Parsons, Iola, and Pittsburg.

The 32nd Annual Pioneer Days is coming to the Caney Valley Antique Power Association this weekend.

Starting tonight, there will be a free bean feed at 5 p.m. followed by a garden tractor pull at 6 p.m. There will also be a car and truck show today and tomorrow from 8 to 3. The antique tractor pull will be tomorrow at 3 and a consignment auction will take place on Sunday. It's all the Caney Valley Antique Power Association just north of Caney on Highway 75. KGGF microphones will be there with a live remote tomorrow morning from 9 – 11 during Open Line.

The Rails to Trails expansion project continues in Coffeyville.

Crews are working on the final expansion phase that will extend the trail that starts near Braum's and enable it to go all the way to LeClere Park around the back side of Buckeye Estates Mobile Home Park. According to City Manager Ben Brubaker, the project has faced a few setbacks with the weather, but he says new culverts have been made to deal with some water issues.

The expansion project is being funded by a grant from the Kansas Department of Transpiration. The finished trail is expected to open to walkers and cyclists by August.

A movie night is on the way this weekend to benefit the old high school gymnasium in Elk Falls.

The movie Despicable Me 4 will be shown Saturday at 9 p.m. with the concession stand opening at 8:30. The movie is free but all the profits from the concession stand will go towards restoring the gym and will also be matched by the Patterson Family Foundation. The movie will be set up on the side of the Elk Falls Gym. Anyone interested in attending tomorrow night should bring a chair or blanket to enjoy the movie.

The Coffeyville City Commission approves an ordinance amending the electric rate schedule.  Executive Director of Electric Services Chris Weiner says it will be a gradual increase over the next three and half years.

The Commission voted 4-1 in favor of the increase, with Commissioner Don Edwards voting no. Commissioner Alec Hendryx was absent from the meeting but called in to participate in the discussion of the ordinance and for the vote.

A Caney woman, who went viral in an incident with two Bartlesville Police officers, reaches a plea.

54-year-old Misty Armitage was charged in April 2024 with eluding and obstructing a police officer after she was pulled over for speeding. The Washington County District Attorney's Office dismissed the obstruction charge and amended the eluding charge to reckless driving. Armitage's deal includes a one-year deferred sentence with supervised probation by the Washington County District Attorney's Office.

Armitage told officers she was headed to the hospital with a bleeding grandchild in the backseat. Video evidence showed two police officers wrestling Armitage out of the vehicle. She is a co-plaintiff in a pending civil lawsuit with Glenda Martin, claiming officers Reed Blackard and Levi Johnson falsely arrested and assaulted them.

The Midland Theater Foundation is announcing a $200,000 donation from Solutions North Bank toward the restoration of the historic auditorium.

Foundation Board President Lisa Scheck says the contribution was made possible through a specific type of tax credits.

Scheck says this $200,000 contribution will help launch the first major phase of the auditorium, which will be focused on accessibility improvements, mechanical and electrical upgrades.

Scheck says the goal is to update the auditorium while preserving its original character. While the Solutions North Bank name may be new to Coffeyville after acquiring Community State Bank, the financial institution provided support to the Midland during early phases of fundraising efforts by donating towards outdoor movie nights.

The continuing goal is to have the auditorium open by 2028. The front of house remains open for community event rentals.

 The average time a superintendent stays in a school district is three years. This month, Blake Vargas celebrated his tenth year as superintendent of Caney USD-436.

 Vargas says the love of the district, it's people, and amazing coworkers are big reasons he has been able to make it to the decade mark.

 Vargas says students continue to be top priority, but there are some things that have changed in the last ten years.

 Vargas says his door is open to anyone who wants to discuss the current state or future of USD-436, and he looks forward to many more years with the district.

A former Neodesha High School student is named the winner of a prestigious art award at Labette Community College.

L-C-C has selected a 3-D Wire Sculpture titled “The Sword in the Stone” by Garrett Davis as the winner of the John and Bonnie Latzer Student Art Award. Davis is a sophomore in General Studies at L-C-C and a graduate of Neodesha High School. He created his piece of artwork in the school's 3D Design course which helps students learn how to craft pieces in paper, clay, foam, wood, wire, and digital 3D Modeling.

The Latzer Art Award was established by the Parsons Area Comm unity Foundation and recognizes exemplary achievement by students in Fine Arts and Graphic Design at L-C-C. As a recipient of the award, Davis will be awarded a $500 scholarship and have his work added to the permanent art collection at L-C-C

The Neodesha City Commission approves four projects for sealing city streets.

At this week's meeting, commissioners approved $12,000 for pavement sealing for four projects in the city. The measure had been tabled at the May 14^th meeting in hopes that a third city commissioner would be seated at the time of the vote. However, the appointment did not occur in time, so the decision fell to Commissioner Duane Banzet and Mayor Devin Johnson. Banzet voted in favor of this measure, but says he would rather see a more permanent solution for road repair.

Mayor Devin Johnson says the city has had to make some tough choices on the issue.

The city held a special call meeting this week to appoint a new commissioner to fill the term left vacant by the resignation of Chris Jabben in April. Ed Truelove was selected to fill the remainder of that term, which will expire in January 2028.

Photo: The Neodesha City Commission (left to right) Duane Banzet, Devin Johnson, Ed Truelove

The City of Columbus will see repairs to some city sidewalks starting next week.

Starting on Monday, June 2nd, crews from Heck & Wicker, Inc. will be in Columbus constructing new sidewalks along West Maple Street and East Sycamore. The sidewalk work on West Maple will begin at the intersection of High School Avenue, extending west to Washington Avenue on the south side of the street.

The sidewalk work on East Sycamore will begin near the intersection with US-69, extending east to Reeves park, on the north side of the street.

The project also includes the installation of several new crosswalks and drainage improvements.

The work was made possible through a grant from the Kansas Department of Transportation's Transportation Alternatives program.

City officials say these much-needed improvements which will enhance the safety and walkability of the community.

The Cherryvale City Administrator addresses a social media controversy regarding the City Pool.

In a Facebook post, City Administrator Michael Hall explained that admission price to the city pool would return to the 1999 rate of $2 per person in order to cover the rising costs of staffing, chemicals, and other operational costs. Hall also reiterated that the City would be supporting Free Swim Wednesdays each week through August, but that unused funds do not automatically roll over from year to year. Donations from previous seasons are unavailable due to municipal budgeting constraints. Each season's program must be funded during the current year.

Hall also stated that the pool and the city Public Works Department are also training new staff and that limiting the number of free swim days will help the city manage the needed staffing levels to ensure safety while continuing with consistent levels of maintenance on pool equipment.

The Cherryvale City Pool will open for the season on June 7th.

Repairs to the fountain in Pfister Park in Coffeyville are underway.

The fountain was originally built in 1937 and had fallen into disrepair in recent years. Construction is currently underway to repair the landmark. City crews have been busy sandblasting the fountain in preparation for new paint in epoxy . That part of the project will be completed later this year. The fountainhead is also scheduled for replacement.

Work on the project will continue throughout the summer months.

The City of Coffeyville reminds residents that Memorial Day flowers must be picked up from cemeteries in the city by dusk on Sunday.

Anyone who placed flowers or decorations on graves at Elmwood, Fairview, and Restlawn cemeteries needs to pick them up by Sunday evening, June 1^st. This helps the Cemetery Parks Crews keep the grounds clean and well-maintained for all visitors. The City notes that this does not apply to flowers placed in permanent vases.

Follow this link for a complete set of cemetery rules and regulations.

The City of Chetopa is looking for civic-minded residents interested in running for election for the City Council.

There are currently three at-large Council positions that will be up for election on November 4^th. Interested candidates must reside in the city limits of Chetopa and be able to attend meetings on the 1^st and 3^rd Tuesday of each month. Those interested in running will need to file paperwork at the County Clerk's Office in Oswego by noon next Monday, June 2. There is a $20 filing fee that must also be paid at the time of filing.

Candidates will appear on the November 4^th General election ballot.

A rollover accident near Sarcoxie totals a pickup truck but leaves the occupants uninjured.

The accident happened just before 6 o'clock yesterday evening. According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, a pickup truck was traveling at highway speeds in rural Newton County when there was a blow-out of the passenger side front tire. The blowout caused the truck to leave the roadway to the right, where it overturned multiple times before rolling through a fence and coming to rest in a field.

The accident caused considerable damage to the vehicle, but none of the truck's occupants were injured.

Two area cities are set to receive funding for small-scale projects through a new Kansas Department of Commerce program.

The City of Longton has been awarded $5,500 to install new city welcome signs while Oswego will receive a $10,000 grant for new swing sets at Riverside Park. Both grants come through the Towns Grant Program created by the State Commerce Department in partnership with with the Dane G. Hansen Foundation, The Kansas Health Foundation, and the Sunflower Foundation. The program is designed to help fund projects in rural communities that might not otherwise have the resources to be completed.

The Towns Grant program supports communities with a population of 5,000 or less that have not received funding from the Kansas Department of Commerce since 2019. The initiative aims to increase local capacity, grow community and youth engagement, mobilize volunteers and spark investment in both the community and local businesses.

Reconstruction continues on the tennis courts at LeClere Park.

Coffeyville City Manager Ben Brubaker says work is progressing and reminds residents that the courts will have some new features.

Brubaker says city crews have removed the fencing and have been working on the new electrical system. He says contractors will begin work soon on the rest of the project.

While the project is expected to be finished in mid-July, Brubaker says there's always the chance of a few delays, but he expects that the project will be finished this summer.

A Bartlesville man is facing a DUI charge in Washington County.

Bartlesville Police officers saw Stanley Arnold swerving through both lanes of traffic multiple times. Deputies also noted Arnold almost hit with a street sign. According to BPD, when Arnold was pulling over, he jumped a curb. BPD says Arnold told them that he had not drank any alcohol that night, but had the odor of alcohol on his breath and slurred speech. When asked to get out of the vehicle, he used his truck to balance himself and was unable to perform standard field sobriety tests.

Deputies placed Arnold in a patrol vehicle, read him implied consent and took him to the jail. He has a previous DUI out of Tulsa County along with other charges from surrounding states.

Brutus Fest is this weekend in West Mineral.

The day starts at 11:00am and will go until 5:00pm. Those who attend the event will find bounce houses, a carnival ride, a kiddie train and a petting zoo. There will also be food trucks setup at the event. Admission is $10 for adults, $9 for seniors, $5.50 for children ages six to 12 and free for kids under six.

Brutus Fest highlights the region's mining history with a special Minute With The Miners segment, where attendees can meet former miners and hear firsthand stories about Big Brutus. The event also features face painting, local vendors, and plenty of opportunities to learn and play. The Big Brutus Museum welcomes everyone to come out and celebrate a day of community, history and fun.

The City of Chetopa is looking for public input about whether or not to offer an free rabies vaccination clinic for dogs and cats.

The event would allow Chetopa pets owners to make sure their pets' vaccinations are kept up-to-date while also allowing owners the opportunity to get their city registration tag at the same time. The vaccination clinic would be free to dog and cat owners who reside in the city limits of Chetopa. Residents who would like to voice their thoughts on the idea are asked to contact the City by June 12^th.

The city can be contacted by calling 620-236-7541 or via email at chetopacity@kans.com

The City of Neodesha is set to appoint a new member of the City Commission.

A special Call Meeting will be held today just before the regularly scheduled Commission meeting to appoint a new city commissioner. That meeting will be held at City Hall.

Also today is the regular City Commission meeting. One of the items on today's agenda is the possible approval of paving and crack sealing for city streets. The measure was tabled at the May 14^th meeting after intense discussion between Mayor Devin Johnson and Commissioner Duane Banzet. The issue was tabled in order to allow for the appointment of a new city commissioner.

Also on today's agenda is the purchase of a bucket truck and an appointment to the Planning and Zoning Board. Today's regular meeting begins at 2pm at City Hall and is also available for viewing via Zoom and the City's Facebook page.

A Wichita man is under arrest after making false claims of an active shooter at a Wichita business.

Wichita Police were called to the scene of a Walgreens store on North West Street on Monday evening after a 9-1-1 caller reported an active shooter at the store. The caller claimed that an individual with a gun had opened fire and that several people had been shot. However, when officers arrived, they discovered that there was no shooter and that everything seemed normal.

Officers identified 18-year-old Crispin Barjas as the 9-1-1 caller and arrested him at the scene for transmitting false information to emergency services. Investigators believe Barajas may have been under the influence of narcotics at the time of the incident.

No injuries were reported.

An affidavit filed in the escape of a former Arkansas Police Chief says the convicted murder's disguise allowed him to slip away from prison.

56-year-old Grant Hardin walked away from a Calico Rock, Arkansas, prison on Sunday afternoon and remains on the run. The manhunt for the convicted murderer and rapist continues as authorities say Hardin escaped from the North Central Unit dressed in makeshift clothes designed to look like law enforcement. New charges of second-degree escape have been filed against Hardin and an affidavit in the case says he walked through a sally port after an employee at the prison opened a secure gate for him.

Hardin was the former police chief in Gateway, Arkansas, when he was convicted of the first-degree murder of 59-year-old James Appleton in 2017. It was after that conviction that his DNA was linked to the 1997 rape of a Rogers elementary school teacher. He was sentenced to 30 years for the murder and 50 years for two counts of rape.

Authorities say Hardin still has ties in northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri and that he is extremely dangerous.

The Montgomery County Jail will have a new medical service provider for inmate beginning on July 1^st.

The decision was made at last night's County Commission meeting. County Administrator Jonathan Booe says the county issued a request for bids and received only one from a company out of Chattanooga, Tennessee.

Jail Administrator Chad Dunham told commissioners they were able to negotiate a contract that was to their liking. Dunham says a big part of that is a clause that would not hold Montgomery County legally liable for decisions made by medical staff.

Commissioners approved a resolution approving the new agreement.

Authorities in McDonald County in southwest Missouri issue an arrest warrant for a Noal Marshal for felony perjury in a fatal hit-and-run case.

The warrant was issued for Rhonda G. Wise in connection to statements she made during an investigation into the fatal accident that killed a pedestrian in November 2024. The key evidence in locating the suspect was a serial number on a taillight lens left at the scene. However, an investigation by the Missouri State Highway Patrol revealed that the information displayed on the lens actually matched a wide array of vehicles and not just the truck belonging to the suspect in the case.

As a result of the investigation, the McDonald County Attorney's Office has dropped the charges against the hit-and-run suspect, stating that they would not pursue charges in a case based on untruthful information.

Wise has not yet been taken into custody.

The Cherokee Nation and Washington County dedicate the opening of a new bridge just north of Ramona.

Representatives were on hand this week to officially open the Double Creek Bridge on Old Highway 75 and West 3300 Road over Double Creek. The $1.4 million investment by the Cherokee Nation replaced the old bridge that was originally built in the 1930s on a high-traffic road.

Washington County Commissioner Mike Dunlap says the relationship the county has with the Cherokee Nation is an example for others.

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin, Jr. says the tribe is dedicated to helping communities across the Cherokee Reservation, especially in rural areas.

The Cherokee Nation has invested in several road and bridge projects across the reservation, including Washington County. The tribe funded the Matoaka Bridge, multiple miles of roads, and will fund the Sanders Creek project just north of Vera.

Nowata County Commissioners approve an agreement with the Green Country Workforce Development Board.

The move came at this week's Nowata County Commission meeting. Commissioner Troy Friddle says the move is good for the county.

In other business, commissioners awarded a bid for the sale of various equipment and approved a donation from the 911 Trust Authority for a utility building. The board is expected to vote on a resolution to insulate a utility building for Nowata County Emergency Management in next week's meeting on June 2.

Osage County Commissioners choose a new medical provider for the Osage County Jail.

At this week's meeting, commissioners discussed a letter of intent to change providers to Dr. Cameron Rumsey of Pawhuska. Osage County Sheriff Bart Perrier says it's a better option to use a local provider.

The jail's current medical provider Turn Key Health had announced plans to raise their prices. Perrier says he didn't feel like the county was getting its money's worth from the company.

Commissioners agreed to the change in provider. Perrier added that Washington County has recently made a similar change and that Osage County will look to emulate that change.

One person is in custody following a Saturday police chase in Yates Center.

Around 10pm on Saturday night, police attempted to stop a vehicle in downtown Yates Center. Instead of complying, the vehicle fled, leading police on a chase through city streets and into the county south of the City. The driver eventually gave up and pulled over. The individual was arrested without further incident.

Yates Center Police are looking for two juvenile males who were witnesses to the incident. Police say the boys are not in trouble and that law enforcement only wants to know what the two saw.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Two area attractions are among the recipients of a portion of $600,000 in state tourism dollars.

Still Waters Edge Retreat in Yates Center was awarded $40,000 while The Pumpkin Pants Ranch in Ark City received nearly $10,000 from the Tourism Attraction Development Grant from Kansas Tourism. The grants are designed to be awarded to non-profit groups, government agencies, and for-profit businesses with the goal of helping those entities spur economic growth and increase tourism in the State of Kansas.

Thirty other communities across the state have also received funding as a part of this grant program. Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland called tourism a powerful driver of economic growth for Kansas communities of all sizes and that it helps create jobs while supporting small businesses and creating community pride.

Updates to the livestock barns at the Coffeyville Fairgrounds could be in the works.

A presentation will be given to the Coffeyville City Commission at tomorrow's meeting, which was moved to Thursday because of the Memorial Day holiday. Coffeyville City Manager Ben Brubaker believes the livestock barns are between 55 and 80 years old, and says there is an opportunity to replace them with something to continue and even expand livestock events.

Brubaker says it's important to maintain facilities that the city already has while updating those that need improvements in a continuing goal to bring more events and sales tax dollars into the area.

If approved, the city could go after a grant and also fund the project from its economic development and capital improvement funds. The project will be discussed during Thursday's meeting which starts at 6:30 p.m. in city hall.

The full interview with Brubaker on a variety of city issues including utility rates and city projects can be heard HERE.

The Kansas Highway Patrol releases its Memorial Day Weekend Holiday Activity Report.

This report covers the period from 6:00pm Friday through 11:59pm on Memorial Day. During this time, KHP personnel assisted 590 motorists. Troopers responded to four non-DUI related fatal crashes that resulted in seven deaths. These numbers match the total of non-DUI fatalities recorded during the same period in 2023 and show an increase compared to 2024.

The number of DUI arrests remained consistent with previous years, with 20 arrests made over the holiday weekend, mirroring figures from 2023 and just one less than in 2024.

Bartlesville police are investigating a fatality accident on North Washington Boulevard.

BPD says the accident happened at around 3:30pm on Friday near the intersection of Ohio Avenue. A vehicle traveling southbound on Highway 75 crossed over into the northbound lanes, resulting in a head-on collision.

BPD says the fire department and Bartlesville Ambulance arrived on scene and began life-saving efforts. The name of the person who died has not been released. BPD says further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

The Midland Theater is one step closer to opening thanks to another generous donation.

Corey and Lisa Hugo of Hugo's Industrial Supply in Independence have donated $20,000 to the Midland through the Kansas Department of Commerce’s Community Service Program Tax Credits.

Corey, who was born and raised in Coffeyville, and his wife Lisa, a southeast Kansas native, spent time touring the theater and hearing about its rich history and bold plans for the future. Members of the Midland board would thank the Hugo family for believing in the power of preservation and the promise of the arts in Southeast Kansas.

The Midland Board's goal is to open the theater by 2028, which is the building's 100^th anniversary. Plans are underway to begin work on the auditorium, which is the final phase of the project. To help fund this effort, a limited number of tax credits are available, and you can learn more about donation opportunities HERE.

The City of Independence is looking for civic-minded citizens to fill some vacant positions on city boards.

Mayor Scott Smith says there are a couple of vacant positions on two different boards.

To apply for the Recreation Commission or the Planning and Zoning Board, go here.

The manhunt continues for a prisoner who escaped from an Arkansas prison on Sunday afternoon.

Authorities say 56-year-old Grant Hardin walked away from the North Central Unit in Calico Rock in eastern Arkansas sometime between 2:50 and 3:40pm on Sunday afternoon. Hardin walked through a sally port wearing an Arkansas Department of Corrections uniform.

Hardin is the former chief of police for the city of Gateway in Benton County in northwest Arkansas. He was serving a 30 year sentence for first-degree murder and rape. Authorities say he has numerous connections and contacts in northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri and that Hardin is considered extremely dangerous. He is described as a white male, about 6 feet tall and weighing about 270 pounds.

The former police chief of a western Kansas town is facing misdemeanor charges stemming from incidents that occurred while he was on duty.

The Trego County Attorney, Abraham Pfannenstiel has filed two charges of battery and one count of misdemeanor mistreatment of a confined person against the former Wakeeney Police Chief Michael Romero.

The first of the two incidents in question occurred in January. The victim in the case alleges that while Romero was investigating him on charges of mistreatment of an animal, the police chief came to his home. When the victim opened the door, he claims Romero tasered him.

The second incident occurred in March, when Romero allegedly battered a suspect arrested for disorderly conduct while the victim was in the backseat of a police car. All charges against both victims were eventually dropped.

Romero was placed on administrative leave in March and terminated from his position as chief of police in April.

An acid spill on Main Street in Miami prompts a hazmat response.

At around 8pm last night, emergency crews in Miami were called to the 600 Block of North Main Street after a smoking substance was reported in the roadway. Officers from the Miami Police Department set up a perimeter around the area, which covered about 50 feet of the road. Main Street was also closed to traffic. Miami Fire responded as well to clean up the material. It was discovered that the spill was caused by a small, leaking container of muriatic acid. About 1/12 gallon of the acid spilled on the highway. Muriatic acid is also known as hydrochloric acid and is classified as a strong acid. It is often used for water and wastewater treatment or to clean masonry. The acid can be purchased at hardware stores.

The spill was quickly cleaned up and the road was reopened. No injuries were reported.

Photo courtesy of the City of Miami

The Independence Police Department welcomes two new officers to the force.

Officers Caleb Myers and Hawkins Taylor were officially sworn into office at the most recent meeting of the Independence City Commission.

Captain Lisa Helkenberg says both officers are ready to begin their new roles.

Both Officers Myers and Taylor were given the oath of their office by Independence City Clerk David Schwenker.

Photo: David Schwenker (left) administers the oath to Officers Hawkins Taylor (left) and Caleb Myers (right) while Captain Lisa Helkenberg looks on

Gardening season is underway and K-State Research and Extension wants to help those with green thumbs get the most from their efforts.

K-State Research and Extension will host another installment in their Modern Homesteading Skills Workshop Series on Thursday evening in Oswego. This week's topic is Garden Geometry. The workshop will be held at the Oswego Community Center at 6pm.

To learn more about each program, call the Montgomery County Extension Office at (620) 331-2690 or register by following this link.

The Coffeyville Area Community Foundation announces the Annual Stephens Teaching Excellence Award.

This year's prize goes to long-time Field Kindley High School teacher Denise Wintjen. Wintjen has taught for USD 445 for 38 years, getting her start as a Kansas history teacher at Rossevelt Middle School before moving into the role of Physical Education and Health teacher at F-K-H-S, where she has taught for the past 13 years.

The Stephens Teaching Excellence Award recognizes the impact that Coffeyville teachers have on their students' lives and honors teachers in the Coffeyville Public School system who demonstrates a passion for their chosen profession. The recipient receives recognition and a $2,500 monetary award.

The award is presented by the John and Peg Stephens Fund in partnership with the Coffeyville Area Community Foundation.

The Montgomery County Commission will continue its discussion on inmate medical services at this week's regular meeting.

The issue will once again be on the agenda after a brief discussion at last week's meeting. Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade will be on hand along with the Department of Corrections Administrator. Commissioners will also hear quarterly reports from Human Resource Director Ashley Hand and County Attorney Melissa Johnson.

Tonight's meeting begins at 6pm in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The public is invited to attend. Today's meeting can be viewed online here.

Local firefighters respond to a truck fire near Independence.

Last night around 9:45, Independence Fire/EMS and Independence Rural Fire responded to the area of County Road 4000 and 3500 west of Independence Community College to a report of a vehicle fire. Upon arrival, crews found a 1990 Dodge pickup that was fully engulfed in flames. Firefighters were able to quickly extinguish the fire and return to service. There were no injuries reported in the incident.

Photo: Independence Fire/EMS

Today's wet weather didn't stop Coffeyville's commemoration of Memorial Day.

The performance by the Coffeyville Municipal Band and Memorial Day service was held across the street from Fairview Cemetary at Grace Fellowship Church and featured local music, readings, a speech by Kansas Senator Virgil Peck and the laying of a wreath by Coffeyville Mayor Deborah Maples.  Fifty flags were also put up in the cemetery by the Veteran's Memorial Park Association and individual volunteers.  Coffeyville VFW Post 1022, American Legion Post 20 members assisted in the program organized by Dr. David Wiggins and hosted by Coffeyville Community College's Dirk Andrews.

The entire program was broadcast on KGGF thanks to Farm Bureau Agent Anna Lawless and VFW Post 1186.  Listen to the full Memorial Day program HERE.

All photos by Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

Two juveniles in Independence face charges of arson following a fire investigation.

Crews from Independence Fire and EMS were called to the location of Independence Overhead Door at 115 West Main Street last Thursday for a report of a structure fire. When firefighters arrived, they found a small fire at the back of the building. The fire was quickly extinguished with minimal damage to the property. However, the fire was determined to be suspicious in nature.

Following an investigation by Fire Investigator Chris Furr and the Independence Police Department, two juveniles were taken into custody.

A former northwest Arkansas police chief convicted of rape and murder escapes from an Arkansas prison.

Authorities say 56-year-old Grant Hardin escaped from the North Central Unity in Calico Rock, Arkansas, around 3:30 yesterday afternoon. Hardin served as Chief of Police for the City of Gateway in Benton County and has many connections in the northwest Arkansas and southwest Missouri areas. Hardin was convicted of first-degree murder in 2017 in the shooting death of 59-year-old James Appleton. When he began his 30-year-prison sentence, his DNA was entered into a database and he was then linked to a cold case rape from 1997. Hardin entered a guilty plea to that crime in 2019.

Hardin is described as a white male, six feet tall and 270 pounds.

Anyone with information about Hardin is asked to call 9-1-1

Six students from northwest Arkansas are among the cadets graduating from one of the nationa’s top military academies this weekend.

The West Point Military Academy Class of 2025 includes Kale Sheets and Leyton Elmore of Fort Smith, Aiden Looney of Bentonville, Luke Rucker of Springdale, Gary Phillips of Van Buren, and Tyson Barbour of Fayetteville.

The six were among the more than 1,000 cadets who graduated from the Academy on Saturday to become military officers. Arkansas Congressman Steve Womack was at the graduation in his role as Chairman of the West Point Board of Visitors. Womack congratulated the cadets from Arkansas’ Third Congressional District, stating that they would make their families and fellow Americans proud of their accomplishment.

The search continues in Cowley County for an Overland Park woman missing since May 15.

Volunteers joined members of the Cowley County Sheriff’s Department late last week to conduct a grid search for 81-year-old Jerry McConnell in a rural area along US-160 about 15 miles east of Moline. McConnell’s car was found in the area on May 19. She disappeared while driving from Harrisonville, Missouri, to her home in Overland Park. Authorities say it’s unclear why McConnell was in that area of Cowley County, but her car did have a full tank of gas. The woman’s family believes she may be suffering from the early stages of dementia.

Searchers found little evidence of McConnell during Thursday’s search, and while hope remains she may still be found alive, authorities says the effort may soon become a recovery mission.

McConnell is described as a white female, about 5 feet six inches tall and weighing about 140 pounds. She has blue eyes and gray hair.

A road rage incident near Neosho late last week leaves one man injured and another in the custody of police.

The incident occurred early Thursday evening on US-59. According to reports, one vehicle was prevented from passing another prompting the first vehicle to intentionally strike the other car, forcing it off the roadway. The suspect driver then produced a handgun and fired at the victim driver, striking him in the arm. The 59-year-old victim was able to drive himself to a Neosho hospital. He was later transferred to Joplin for a higher level of care.

Witnesses to the incident were able to give police a description of the suspect and his vehicle. McDonald County Sheriff’s Deputies were able to locate and arrest Anthony Keller of Goodman, Missouri. Keller was transferred to the custody of Newton County where he faces charges of first-degree assault, armed criminal action, and unlawful use of a weapon. He is being held without bond in the case.

Authorities in McDonald County, Missouri, are investigating what is being called an attempted murder-suicide.

The incident began last Thursday when McDonald County deputies were called to a residence for reports of a domestic disturbance near Powell, just north of Pea Ridge, Arkansas. When one of the deputies knocked on the door of the home, he heard gunfire inside the residence. The deputy took cover and called for back-up. At that point, a wounded female resident of the home crawled to the door in search of aid. The woman was found to be suffering from a gunshot wound to the abdomen and was taken by helicopter to a nearby trauma center. When law enforcement entered the house, they found the woman’s husband deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The female victim is expected to make a full recovery. The investigation into the shooting remains ongoing.

Neewollah announces the cast for this year’s production of the musical Annie.

The title role will be performed by Nora Newkirk, with Daniel McDill as Warbucks, Chelsea Farmer in the role of Miss Hannigan. Larin Tucker-Do will play the role of Grace Ferrell. The musical will be under the direction of Lisa Paige and produced by Kelli Ebert and Allison Johnston.

Performances will occur during Neewollah 2025 on October 17 through 19 at Memorial Hall in Independence.

The full cast list can be found here.

One man is dead and another injured following a head-on collision Friday afternoon in rural Sedgwick County.

The crash occurred on K-42 about 25 miles southwest of Wichita. A 2010 Buick Lacrosse driven by 44-year-old Eugene Stumblingbear of Attica, Kansas, was traveling eastbound in the westbound lanes when it struck a semi head-on. Stumblingbear was killed in the crash while the driver of the semi – 54-year-old Donald Piotrowski of Valley Center, Kansas, sustained minor injuries.

Montgomery County announces the launch of a new county website and that county commission meetings will no longer be streamed using Facebook live.

According to a press release, starting tomorrow, Montgomery County Commission meetings will be available online via a livestream link that will be posted on the new County website and its Facebook page. The change is intended to improve broadcast quality and to ensure that the public can access online meetings through a reliable, centralized source.

The new county website will go live on June 3 and will feature a cleaner, more modern layout, improved search functions, and better mobile access. It will also feature better access to county departments, forms, and resources.

The new Montgomery County website can be found here.

A roll-over crash in Cowley County leaves one man seriously injured.

32-year-old Jordan Elston of Ponca City was injured in a single-vehicle crash on US-77 just south of Ark City. Elston’s 2006 Dodge Ram pickup left the roadway onto the median just before 5pm Saturday evening. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, Elston’s truck rolled a total of five times before coming to a rest. He was taken to Wesley Medical Center in Wichita for treatment.

Elston was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

A Wisconsin man is dead following a two-vehicle accident on Saturday morning just south of Burlington.

The accident occurred around 10am on US-75 a 2009 Toyota Camry driven by 20-year-old Dallas Reeves of Janesville, Wisconsin, attempted to pass another vehicle. He was met with an oncoming Chevy Silverado in the oncoming lane driven by 46-year-old Charles Jarrell of Leroy, Kansas. Both drivers attempted to avoid a collision, but struck each other on the shoulder. Reeves was fatally injured while Jarrell received serious injuries and was taken to a Burlington hospital. A six-year-old boy in Jarrell’s truck also sustained minor injuries in the crash.

Several area Memorial Day ceremonies have been canceled due to the rainy weather

The City of Howard announces that the American Legion Carter-Rader Post #149 has canceled the early morning activities scheduled for today in Howard, including breakfast and the hanging of cotton flags. The caravan has also been canceled due to the lack of cemetery services.

The 10:30am service will be held at the Flint Hills Assembly of God Church located at 12-17 K-99 in Howard. Lunch will be served afterward at the Cox Building and all are invited to attend both gatherings.

All cemetery services scheduled for today in Moline have been canceled.

The City of Caney has also canceled today's scheduled service due to rain and standing water at Veterans' Park

Memorial Day services in Independence have been moved from Mount Hope Cemetery to the East 4-H building at Riverside Park. Those services get underway at 10am.

The Coffeyville Memorial Day ceremonies will begin at 9:30am at Fairview Cemetery. In case of rain, the event will move across the street to Grace Fellowship Church. Hear those ceremonies live here on the Mighty 690 starting at 9:30 and brought to you by Farm Bureau Anna Lawless, and VFW Post 11-86 in Independence

Hundreds attend this year's Wilson County Pro Rodeo.

The event in Fredonia featured two nights of PRCA action, and Rodeo Clown Boom Boom Thompson says it's special coming to Fredonia.

The total payout in this year's event was just over $40,000.  Full results are available below:

All-around cowboy: Jesse Stipes, $826, team roping and steer roping.

Bareback riding: 

1. Karson Harris, 82 points on Silver Creek Pro Rodeo's Interstate Daydr, $635

2. Stetson Bierman, 81, $477
3. Rhett Robbins, 80, $318
4. (tie) Ty Blessing and Quintonn Lunsford, 79, $79 each.

Steer wrestling: 

1. Juan Alcazar Jr, 5.1 seconds, $996
2. Rhett Witt, 5.3 $747
3 Jarek VanPetten, 5.5, $498
4. Logan Wiseman, 6.5, $249.
 

Team roping:
1. Tyler Hobert/Shannon Frascht, 4.3 seconds, $1,908 each
2. Brent Mibb/Blayne Horne, 4.7, $1,579
3. (tie) Peyton Holliday/Treycer Holcomb and Colter Snook/Cale Morris, 5.4, $1,086 each

5. Mason Stueve/Kingston Chang, 6.2, $592

6. Jaden Trimble/Cordell Collins, 6.4, $329.

Saddle bronc riding: 
1. John Allen, 81.5 points on Silver Creek Pro Rodeo's Roller Coaster, $771
2. (tie) Tanner Hayes and Brady Irvine, 80, $482 each
4. Brody Harrison, 79, $193.

Tie-down roping: 
1. Denton Oestmann, 9.4 seconds, $954
2. (tie) Ryler Allred and Eli Barger, 9.5, $707 each

5. Bryce Loyd, 10.2, $296

6. (tie) Cody Huber and Chase Thrasher, 10.6, $82 each.

Barrel racing: 
1.. Tana Renick, 16.65 seconds, $985

2. Ivy Saebens, 16.84, $844;
3. Nikki Reynolds, 16.94, $704
4. Tiffany Teehee, 17.09, $610
5. Jayda Tolle, 17.33, $469
6. Tracy Nowlin, 17.38 $375
7. Emma Charleston, 17.41, $281
8. Prairie Robbins, 17.42, $188
9. Melanie McKay, 17.60, $141
10. Jeanne Anderson, 17.83, $94.

Steer roping:

 First round: 
1. Cole Patterson, 11.4 seconds, $1,101
2. Blake Deckard, 12.1, $826
3. Mike Chase, 13.0, $551
4. Jess Tierney, 13.3, $275.

 Second round: 
1. J. Tom Fisher, 10.7 seconds, $1,101
2. Dustin Bassett, 12.4, $826

3. Cole Patterson, 12.7, $551
4. Jake Clay, 12.9, $275. 

Average:
1. Cole Patterson, 24.1 seconds on two head, $1,652
2. J. Tom Fisher, 25.8, $1,239
3. Jesse Stipes, 27.9, $826;
4. Mike Chase, 28.6, $413.

Bull riding: 
* 1. Kody Aldrich, 82 points on Silver Creek Pro Rodeo's Whiplash, $1,789; no other qualified rides. *(all totals include ground money).
 

Total payoff: $40,061.

 Stock contractor: Silver Creek Pro Rodeo. Rodeo Secretary: Kate Rumford. Officials: Chris England Sr and Todd Fogg. Timers: Val Worrell and Amber Schmutz. Announcer: Brandon McLagan. Bullfighters: Cade Burns and Kyle Weaver. Clown/Barrelman: Boom Boom Thompson. Flankman: Josh Walling. Chute Boss: Randy Schmutz. Pickup Man: Cash Smith. Music Director: Mark Evans. Photographer: Tonya Evans.

Some electric customers in Coffeyville may experience a service outage today as crews work on a distribution issue.

According to Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power, customers in the 400 and 500 blocks of Maple and Walnut along with the 100 blocks of 4th and 5th Streets will experience a service outage as crews make critical underground repairs.  As of 7 p.m., crews were still at work.

The electric department has identified at least two failed underground runs and must disconnect power to safely make repairs.

Severe storms remain possible tonight, although the threat area has now shifted south to include less of southeast Kansas and more of northeast Oklahoma.

Sedan and Coffeyville are now on the northern edge of the "slight" risk category for severe weather, while areas south of Bartlesville including Claremore and Pawhuska are now into the "moderate" risk category.

Timing is expected between 9 p.m. and 4 a.m. on Sunday.

The main threats with storms that develop overnight is hail and flooding.  Flooding concerns continue for the weekend as a flood watch will be in effect for the four-state area through Memorial Day.  Six to eight inches of additional rain is possible for portions of northeast Oklahom and northwest Arkansas.  Southeast Kansas could see and additional 2 - 3 inches.

A slight chance of severe weather will also be in place tomorrow, mainly for northeast Oklahoma.

***** Update: the car show is now being delayed to a later date to be determined *****

Due to heavy rain, a few events at Caney Mayfest are being delayed.

The car show is still on for now, but has now been pushed back one hour with gates opening at 8:30 and registration starting at 9 a.m.

Turtle race registration will now start at 1 p.m. and the races will start at 2 p.m.

We'll have live coverage of Mayfest events with a remote this morning between 10 and noon on US 98.

Day one of the Wilson County Pro Rodeo is in the books, with a total payout of $10,285.

Hundreds attended the event and Wilson County Fair and Rodeo Committee Treasurer Kris Marple says the weather held off for yesterday's events.

Pro Rodeo Announcer Brandon McLagan says he always enjoys the Wilson County Rodeo and thinks that it provides some of the best family entertainment around.

The rodeo continues tonight in Fredonia with gates opening at 6:30 and events starting at 8 p.m.  Full results are available here: 

Bareback riding leaders: 

1. Karson Harris, 82 points

2. Rhett Robbins, 80;

3. Quintonn Lunsford, 79

4. Spencer DeNaeyer, 75

5. Dylan George, 73
6. Tanner Drueke, 71.

Steer wrestling leaders: 

1. Juan Alcazar Jr, 5.1 seconds
2. Logan Wiseman, 6.5
3. Kent Jordan, 7.4
4. Clayton Culligan, 14.5

Team roping leaders: 

1. Brent Mibb/Blayne Horne, 4.7 seconds
2. Zack Woods/Jordan Lovins, 6.6
3. Judd Grover/Clay Ellis, 11.0
4. Corben Culley/Trent Vaught 11.2
5. Rylee Mills/Jordan Reynolds, 11.7
6. Mason Appleton/Rance Doyal, 20.0.

Saddle bronc riding leaders: 
1. Brady Irvine, 80 points on Silver Creek Pro Rodeo's Black Betty
2. Stephen Graefen, 76
3. Roper Kiesner, 71
 

Tie-down roping leaders: 
1. (tie) Ryler Allred and Eli Barger, 9.5 seconds each
3. Bryce Loyd, 10.2
4. Levi Sechrist, 11.4
5. Zane Kreikemeier, 16.6
 

Barrel racing leaders: 
1. Tana Renick, 16.65 seconds
2. Ivy Saebens, 16.84
3. Nikki Reynolds, 16.94
4. Tiffany Teehee, 17.09
5. Jayda Tolle, 17.33

6. Tracy Nowlin, 17.38.

Steer roping: First round: 

1.. Cole Patterson, 11.4 seconds, $1,101
2. Blake Deckard, 12.1, $826
3. Mike Chase, 13.0, $551
4. Jess Tierney, 13.3, $275. 

Second round: 
1. J. Tom Fisher, 10.7 seconds, $1,101

2. Dustin Bassett, 12.4, $826;
3. Cole Patterson, 12.7, $551
4. Jake Clay, 12.9, $275. 

Average: 
1. Cole Patterson, 24.1 seconds on two head, $1,652
2. J. Tom Fisher, 25.8, $1,239
3. Jesse Stipes, 27.9, $826
4. Mike Chase, 28.6, $413.

Bull riding leaders: 
1. Utah Golliher, NS
no other qualified rides.

Total payoff: $10,285. Stock contractor: Silver Creek Pro Rodeo.

As severe thunderstorms move through southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma, a flood watch is also in effect.

The National Weather Service has issued a flood watch for Montgomery County, including Coffeyville, Dearing and the Coffeyville Airport until 1:15 this afternoon. At 5:05 a.m., doppler radar indicated heavy rain due to thunderstorms, with flooding ongoing or expected to begin shortly. Between 2 and 3 inches of rain have already fallen and an additional 1 to 2 inches of rain is possible.  As of 7 a.m., 3.89 inches of rain was measured at the KGGF studios.

In addition, southeast Cherokee County and the Joplin area are included in a flash flood warning. A flood watch remains in effect through Memorial Day for much of southeast Kansas, northeast Oklahoma, southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas.

 Caney Mayfest is underway, with music, food and fun for the whole family.

 Rides and inflatables are available today and tomorrow in Wark Park, with Fourth and Live beginning at 6:00 tonight on 4^th Street. Tickets for the show featuring Jason Boland and the Stragglers, Emily Hollingshed, Keaton Herrmann, and Big County Entertainment are available at the gate.

 Registration begins at 8:00 a.m. Saturday for the Caney Mayfest Car Show, which begins at 9:00, and you can bring your own turtle for the turtle race at the skate park; registration begins at 9:00 with the race at 10:00. The Coffeyville Community Band is scheduled for 11:00 followed by a dance performance by Stage Art Productions at noon.

 Sunday's activities include a community church service at 10:30 in Wark Park, and a community Memorial Day service takes place at 11:00 a.m. Monday at Veterans Memorial Park.

 The event is sponsored by the Caney Community Betterment Group Foundation.

 Join us from 10:00 a.m. to noon Saturday as we broadcast the sounds of Mayfest on Classic Hits 104.1, brought to you by D&L Automotive, Laforge / Acrisure Insurance, Sonic of Caney, Caney Family Dental, Smith Auto & Tire, Skyway Honda, Copan Restaurant and RCB Bank.

An Oklahoma animal control officer is being lauded for his compassion after helping a baby deer left orphaned after its mother was struck by a car.

The City of Muskogee Animal Control Officer Phil Blair was called to the scene of an animal that had been hit by a car. When he arrived on scene, Blair discovered the animal was a deer and that it had been severely injured with all of its legs broken. Blair humanely euthanized the suffering animal, and then noticed movement in the deer's abdomen. The animal had been about to give birth to a fawn when it was struck by the car.

Blair and a co-worker quickly prepared to bring the baby fawn into the world. Although neither man was trained as a veterinarian, Blair was familiar with animals and helped with the delivery. The newborn fawn struggled at first but was soon breathing and trying to stand.

The animal has been taken to an animal rehabilitation specialist and is doing well.

The annual Wilson County Pro Rodeo gets underway tonight, with events running through tomorrow night in Fredonia.

Gates open at 6:30 p.m. tonight, with the theme of Opening Night being Neon Friday. Appreciation awards begin at 7:30, with Mutton Bustin' at 7:45 and Opening Ceremonies at 8.

The PRCA Rodeo show begins tonight at 8:15, with many of the nation's top cowboys and cowgirls in attendence this weekend.

US 98.1 FM KUSN will also be broadcasting live from the Rodeo from 6 to 8 p.m. tonight, courtesy of State Farm Agent Connie Shiverdecher, Porter Drug, Neodesha Housing, Little Bear Tire Company, and Billy's Bar and Grill.

Baxter Springs has a new Police Chief.

The City has appointed former school resource officer Rick Comer as the new Chief of Police. Comer takes over the position from Jimmy Hamilton. Hamilton stepped into the role on an interim basis in November after former Chief Brian Henderson was elected as Sheriff of Cherokee County. Hamilton was then officially named as Police Chief in January. With this latest move, Hamilton has returned to his former role as Assistant Chief of Police.

The changes are not finished, however, as the city is currently accepting applications for the Police Chief position. The City says Comer may be chosen for the job, but he will have to apply just like everyone else.

Applications for the position will be accepted for the next two weeks.

A former Missouri firefighter is arrested on a charge of involuntary manslaughter.

A Jasper County judge issued the warrant for the arrest of Brant Cullen yesterday for his role in the off-duty death of fellow firefighter Tucker Berry in October 2024. Cullen then turned himself at the Jasper County Detention Center and was booked on the charge. He was later released on bond with the condition that he not purchase or consume alcohol or visit an establishment where alcohol is served.

The involuntary manslaughter charge stems from an incident that occurred on October 19 when authorities say Cullen was operating a golf cart recklessly after consuming alcohol. Berry was standing on the back of a golf cart when he fell and suffered fatal injuries.

Cullen's next court date is unknown at this time.

The Independence City Commission agrees to reconsider a recently changed city ordinance regarding sales of July 4^th fireworks.

At Thursday's City commission meeting, several residents in attendance voiced their concerns about the new ordinance adopted at the May 8^th meeting. The City will now allow for the sale and discharge of fireworks from June 20^th through July 7^th inside the the city limits. Several citizens give their reason for opposing the change.

Commissioners listened to the comments but took no action because the item was listed on this week's agenda. However, Commissioners Tim Emert and Mayor Scott Smith say they will revisit the issue.

In other business, commissioners held a public hearing on the ARCO building to consider whether or not to deem the structure dangerous and unsafe. The hearing was adjourned until December to allow the owner to develop a plan to present to the City outlining a revitalization of the building. If the owner does nothing, demolition may be considered. However, the cost for razing the building is estimated to be at least $2 million.

A Holyrood man is dead after being struck by a car while crossing a highway.

The accident occurred just north of the City of Ellsworth in Central Kansas around 9:30 last night (Thursday night). 63-year-old Timothy Fosdick was crossing K-156 on foot when he was struck and killed by a westbound vehicle driven by 42-year-old Jose Manuel Quintanilla of Garden City. Neither Quintanilla nor any of the four other people in his vehicle were injured in the accident.

Flags across the state of Kansas will be flown at half-staff on Monday in honor of Memorial Day.

Governor Laura Kelly issued the order on Thursday, directing that flags throughout the state be flown at half staff from sunrise until noon on Monday in recognition of the Memorial Day holiday.

Kelly stated that Memorial Day is a time to recognize and honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice to protect our freedom and that the State of Kansas thanks them for their service to the State and the Nation.

Two Independence men are under arrest following an evening altercation.

On Sunday evening around 8:30, officers from the Independence Police Department were called to the 300 block of South 19^th Street following reports of an assault. Following an investigation into the reported incident, two men were taken into custody. 29-year-old Rustin Richmond was booked on charges of aggravated domestic battery. 58-year-old Rudy Richmond also faces charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

Both men were booked into the Montgomery County Jail.

Photo: Rustin Richmond (left), Rudy Richmond (right)

Authorities in Cowley County are continuing to search for a missing Overland Park woman after her car is found abandoned just east of Moline.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation issued a Silver Alert for 81-year-old Jerry McConnell after she disappeared a week ago while driving from Harrisonville, MO, to her home in Overland Park. McConnell is described as a white female, 5'6" tall, with blue eyes and gray hair. She weighs about 140 pounds. She was reportedly spotted by security cameras in Severy on May 15.

McConnell's 2009 Honda Accord was discovered earlier this week in a rural area north of US-160 on Cowley County.

Anyone with information about McConnell is asked to contact the Overland Park Police Department at 913-895-6300. Anyone who thinks they may have seen her should call 911.

Severe storm chances and a soggy Memorial Day Weekend is on the way.

According to the National Weather Service, there is a slight risk of severe weather today for most of southern Kansas, northern Oklahoma, southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas. An initial round of weather could move through today between 8 a.m. and 3 p.m., then a second round of weather is possible after 7 p.m. The main threats include high winds and damaging hail.

A slight risk of severe weather is also possible tomorrow for the more immediate four-state area including much of northeast Oklahoma. Montgomery County will see storm chances both days.

A flood watch is also in effect for much of southeast Kansas including, Chautauqua, Montgomery, Wilson, Neosho and Labette Counties and areas to the north and east. Most of northeast Oklahoma, southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas is also included in the flood watch. The Coffeyville area could see 4-6 inches of rain this weekend. The heaviest rain is expected between Saturday and Sunday night.

Coffeyville will mark Memorial Day with a special commemoration coming up this holiday weekend.

On Monday, Organizer Loran Osborne says the plan is to put up 250 flags around the cemetery and they need help in the early morning and afternoon.

Anyone interested in volunteering can contact Osborne at 620-870-4128.

Then at 10 a.m., the Memorial Day program will start at the Veteran's Memorial Patio at Fairview Cemetery. Dr. David Wiggins says you can bring your lawn chairs and come early at 9:30 to enjoy the Coffeyville Municipal Band Concert. Wiggins says there will be a variety of community members participating in this year's events.

In case of rain, the event will be moved indoors to Grace Fellowship Church. Those unable to attend can hear all the events live on The Mighty 690 starting at 9:30 a.m., brought to you by Independence VFW Post 1186 and Farm Bureau Agent Anna Lawless.

The City of Coffeyville’s Community Development Department offers a variety of grant programs.

These grants are designed to strengthen neighborhoods, support local development and improve quality of life throughout the city. These programs, funded mostly through the ½-cent sales tax, open each year on January 1^st and continue until funds are allocated.

Community Development Director Amber Dean says their goal is to make Coffeyville a stronger and more vibrant place to live, work and invest. She says these grants are an investment in the future, and they encourage residents, developers and property owners to take full advantage of the support available. 

Current 2025 Community Grant Programs

1. First-Time Homebuyer Incentive Program
Offers up to $5,000 to help first-time buyers with down payments or closing costs.
Used: 7 | Pending: 1 | Available: 3

2. New Construction Single-Family Program
Provides a $3,000 incentive for either rehabilitating unlivable single-family homes or constructing new ones.
Used: 2 | Available: 10

3. Historic Downtown Revitalization Grant Program
Supports exterior improvements to buildings in the historic downtown district, preserving charm and boosting economic growth.
Used: 9 | Available: 0 (Program fully utilized for 2025)

4. New Construction Multi-Family Program
Offers $1,500 per unit for renovating or building multi-family properties to increase quality rental housing options.
Used: 2 | Available: 8

5. Paint the Town Program
Provides free paint and supplies to eligible homeowners to beautify homes and neighborhoods.
Used: 40 | Available: 0 (Program fully utilized for 2025)

6. Weatherization and Emergency Repairs
Grants of up to $1,500 for home improvements and urgent repairs.
Used: 15 | Available: 25

7. Developer Incentives
Designed to reduce development costs and encourage new construction and property rehabilitation across Coffeyville.
Used: 2 | Available: 8

Highway 169 will close next week for rail repairs.

The South Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad plans to close and repair the south crossing on Hwy 169 at Cherryvale on Monday. The crossing is expected to remain closed through Friday. Traffic will follow a signed detour through the city of Cherryvale.

The detour has 12-foot lane and 14-foot height restrictions. For more information visit kandrive.gov.

 After accepting councilman Zach Ellison's resignation Tuesday night, two more resignations were given after the regular session Caney City Council meeting ended.

 In a special session last night, the council accepted the resignations of Lisa Gorby and Kerry Gorby, and appointed new council members Mike Holeman, Becky Dye and Travis White to fill the vacated spots.

 Mayor Josh Elliott says recent scheduled meetings have had to change to work sessions, but he sees that improving when the number of council members drops from eight to four.

 Elliott also says quorum should be easier to obtain with less or no wards.

 The regular session meeting Monday night was moved to Tuesday because of lack of quorum. If enacted, the reduction from eight to four council members would take place January 14^th.

The Independence City Commission will hold a public hearing at tonight's meeting to consider the condemnation of the ARCO building as dangerous and unsafe.

The City has notified the building's owner – Daniel Regan of Tulsa – of tonight's hearing and that an order of condemnation may be issued directing the repair or removal of the building. The original building was built in 1916 as the headquarters of Prairie Oil and Gas and Prairie Pipeline, a company that would later become Sinclair Oil. After Sinclair Oil was acquired by Atlantic Richfield in 1969, the building became known as the ARCO Building. The building was placed on the Register of Kansas Historic Places and the National Historic Registry in 2024, but has been in disrepair for some time.

The commission is expected to adjourn the public hearing until December, but commissioners are also expected to discuss the cost of removal of the building should the current owner fail to take action.

Tonight's commission meeting will begin at 5:30 in the Commission Room at City Hall. The public is invited to attend in-person or to view the meeting online via the City's website.

A former firefighter is charged in the 2024 off-duty death of one of his fellow firefighters.

A charge of Felony Involuntary Manslaughter has been filed in Jasper County against former firefighter Brant Cullen. The charges come in connection to the death of Tucker Berry in a golf cart accident on October 19, 2024.

A probable cause affidavit states that the defendant recklessly caused Berry's death by operating a golf cart at excessive speeds and swerving after consuming alcohol. Berry was standing on the back of the golf cart and then fell from the vehicle. The fall caused fatal injuries to Berry.

No arrest warrant has yet been issued for Cullen.

The family of Tucker Berry has also filed a wrongful death civil suit against Cullen and another firefighter Kreg Myers.

Photo: Tucker Berry (left) and Brant Cullen (right)

The City of Fredonia is preparing to renovate a downtown building to become its new police station.

At  Wednesday's city commission meeting, commissioners agreed to issue a request for proposals for the remodeling of the building located at 515 Madison Street. City Administrator Evan Bolt says a few tweaks were made to the original request in order to financially protect the city.

In other business, commissioners also approved a new ordinance that would prohibit public nudity. The measure was proposed following a recent incident in nearby Cowley County in which a man was seen taking strolls and doing yard work while wearing nothing but shoes. Bolt says something similar has happened recently in Fredonia.

The commission also approved $6,000 for the purchase of parts for the city swimming pool. Water Department Supervisor Justin Dodd told commissioners that the repairs could be made to allow the pool to open on time.

An Arma man is sentenced to life in prison for first-degree murder in a 2023 shooting death in Pittsburg.

A jury handed down the sentence this week for 43-year-old Collin Pal Gepford of Neosho in a Crawford County courtroom. Gepford was convicted in March of the February 2023 shooting death of 51-year-old David Mays of Weir. Investigators say Gepford, along with Mays and Travis Conness, lured a fourth man to the scene when Gepford then fired a weapon into the man's car. The fourth man then fled the scene. Police believe the fatal shooting occurred as a result of an altercation between the remaining three men.

Gepford was also convicted of attempted first-degree murder, felony discharge of a firearm, and criminal in possession of a firearm. He will not be eligible for post-release supervision for nearly 53 years.

A Bartlesville man is facing a felony charge after an alleged assault.

36-year-old Justin McIntyre was charged yesterday with domestic abuse by assault and battery.

According to the Bartlesville Police Department, McIntyre was allegedly involved in an altercation with the victim inside a residence. During the altercation, McIntyre is accused of throwing an object at the victim and then attempting to gouge the victim's eyes and ears.

McIntyre will appear in court again on June 13 . His bond is set at $25,000.

A Parsons Traffic stop leads to the seizure of illegal drugs.

Parsons Police conducted a traffic stop on Tuesday evening in the 1500 block of Broadway after observing a vehicle with an illegal window tint. During the stop, officers observe a glass pipe commonly associated with methamphetamine use in plain sight within the vehicle. A subsequent search yielded additional items, including multiple glass pipes with crystalline residue, a medicine bottle containing a white substance, drug paraphernalia consistent with distribution, and a machete located in the truck bed.

The driver of the truck was identified as 44-year-old Travis Wilson and was placed under arrest. At the time of his arrest, Wilson was on probation in Labette County. Due to his probation status, a search was conducted of his residence. The search revealed additional paraphernalia, including a digital scale with residue and dozens of clean plastic baggies believed to be used in distribution. These items have been sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation Lab for testing.

Wilson faces multiple charges, including Possession of Narcotics and Drug Paraphernalia and Criminal Possession of a Weapon. The charges have been sent to the Labette County Attorney's Office for formal charging.

An Oswego man wanted in connection to a 2024 overdose death in Parsons is now in custody.

The Parsons Police Department has announced the arrest of 41-year-old Benjamin Queen in St. Tammany Parish in Louisiana on a felony warrant for distribution of a controlled substance causing death. Queen is accused of supplying the fentanyl that caused the overdose death of 33-year-old Stormy Watson in November 2024.

Watson was found unresponsive in her Parsons home on November 6 and was pronounced dead at the scene. An autopsy later revealed her cause of death as acute drug intoxication caused by a combination of fentanyl and methamphetamine. An investigation later revealed evidence that caused investigators to believe that Queen was Watson's fentanyl supplier and a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Queen will be returned to Labette County to face charges in the case. He may also face additional charges in Louisiana.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has rescinded the boil water advisory for Allen County Rural Water District #15.

The original order was issued Monday due possible contamination stemming from a loss of pressure in the system during a hydrant replacement. Laboratory testing of drinking water sample taken from the water supply indicates to contamination. The K-D-H-E has deemed this and all other conditions that placed the water system at risk to be resolved.

The South Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad receives an award for its effort in helping Bartlett Grain locate its new soybean facility in Southeast Kansas.

According to Watco, the railroad received a Business Development Award from the American Short Line and Regional Railroad Association.

After nearly five years of planning and work, Bartlett opened its new soybean crush plant along the short line in mid-2024. The SKOL was involved from the beginning, even helping locate the site for the $375 million facility. Watco also helped design and build and provides unit train service to a grain storage facility on the Kansas & Oklahoma Railroad.

The SKOL and Watco teams worked to secure federal and state grants to help fund upgrades across the line to handle the traffic for the new plant. Over the past several years, the team upgraded the rail to 286,000-lb. capacity, rebuilt bridges, upgraded crossings, constructed a new 8,000-foot siding and more.

SKOL General Manager Jerry Waun, Sales Manager Casey Harbour, and Vice President of Railroad Sales Brett Jensen accepted the award last month at a conference in Denver.

Dozens of Fredonia children are starting summer break in style, receiving new bicycles.

The Fredonia Area Community Foundation will be giving away 28 bikes and helmets to second graders today, after giving away bikes to third graders earlier in the school year.

Wilson County Health Department Administrator, and Healthy Living Action Team member Amy Lell says this is normally an annual event, but it was handled a bit differently this year.

Additional items of business at the County Commission meeting was approval of new book purchase for the Register of Deeds office, as well as a Road and Bridge update from Director Kary Tatum, with emphasis being put on beginning road repair on 500 Road.

The City of Sedan approves a new contract with the Chautauqua County Animal Shelter.

The move comes after the two groups parted ways in January over a dispute regarding funding from the City and the Kansas Open Records Act. City Council Member Adam Clark has been unwavering in his stance that the shelter must agree to follow state law. After several heated meetings, the two parties were able to come to terms for a six-month contract. Clark says this will give the two groups more time to develop an agreement that will suit them both for the long term.

Council Member Janice Fine makes the motion and Mayor Brian Blankenship calls for the vote.

The newly elected President of the Friends of the Chautauqua County Animal Shelter Joe Reed was at this week's meeting for the approval.

Governor Laura Kelly orders flags to be flown at half staff tomorrow, May 22, 2025, in honor of a Butler County paramedic.

Flags on all state buildings and facilities will be at half staff from sunrise to sunset tomorrow in honor of Justin Lauppe. Lauppe was an EMS paramedic in Butler County who suffered a fatal cardiac arrest while on an emergency response call on May 16.

Kelly called Lauppe a dedicated emergency responder who served his community and provided essential care to his fellow Kansans in their time of need.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will host an open house event next week in Cherryvale.

The open house will be to provide information on a project that will reconstruct a section of US-160 near the Bartlett soybean plant. The project will run east of the US-160 junction with US-169 to the South Kansas & Oklahoma Rail crossing. The project will include widening of the driving lanes and adding turn lanes and shoulders. Construction is expected to begin later this year. That portion of US-160 will be closed during construction.

Next week's open house will take place on Thursday, May 29^th, at the Cherryvale Community Center, located at 712 South Liberty. Area residents are invited to stop by between 4:30 and 6:30pm to view a project map and displays and talk with project staff. This will be a come-and-go event and there will be no formal presentation.

The City of Independence is looking for someone to serve on the Recreation Commission Board.

Interested candidates must be a resident of the City of Independence, and be a registered voter who lives inside the city limits. Applicants need to have a strong interest in recreation, community wellness, or youth and family engagement and be able to meet once a month. Additional attendance at community and special events may be required.

To apply, follow this link.

Multiple train cars are derailed just south of the South Kansas and Oklahoma switch yard in Coffeyville.

A resident in the area reported hearing the train derailment overnight, which left three cars off the tracks off of Patterson Boulevard by the Power Plant.

No injuries have been reported at this time, and no traffic interferences are expected.

Crews are on scene beginning work to clear the tracks, and KGGF will provide updates to this story as they become available.

The Coffeyville City Commission will hold a special meeting today.

The purpose of the meeting is to discuss the previously approved resolution for the maintenance of the City's three Wartsila engines. The change to the resolution would add an additional $300,000 to the original $3 million cost.

Today's meeting will begin at 1pm at City Hall.

An employee of the Barton County, Missouri, Sheriff's Office is killed in a motorcycle crash.

The accident happened last Wednesday in Golden City, Missouri, about 25 miles northeast of Webb City. 24-year-old Chloe Brower was a passenger on the motorcycle involved in the crash on US-160. Brower was unresponsive at the scene and was taken to a Springfield hospital, where she later died from her injuries.

The driver of the motorcycle was a 33-year-old male from Golden City. He received minor injuries and was taken to a Joplin hospital for treatment.

Brower had been employed at the Barton County Sheriff's Office since May of last year.

Authorities in Oklahoma have issued a boil water order for the City of Hominy.

The order comes in the wake of damage to the primary water line transporting water to the treatment, forcing the town to be without water for several days. Water customers in Hominy should use water that has been brought to a full boil for at least one minute,  or use bottled water, or water from another acceptable source for consumption, use in food preparation, dishwashing and teeth brushing.

Users will be notified when the water is considered safe for human consumption. Federal law requires that consumers be notified when public water supply standards are not being met.

Independence residents will have a chance to put on their walking shoes tomorrow for a special event at Riverside Park.

Tomorrow is the Minds in Motion Walk for Mental Health. The event is in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. Independence chamber President Lisa Wilson says it all gets started at 4:30 tomorrow afternoon.

Everyone is invited to participate tomorrow afternoon at 4:30 at Riverside Park.

A two-vehicle accident in Montgomery County leaves one person injured.

The accident occurred Tuesday afternoon around 1:15 at the intersection of County Road 5125 and US-169. A 2001 Ford F-150 driven by 72-year-old Bruce Main of Liberty failed to yield at a stop sign on the County Road and attempted to cross US-169 at the intersection. Main's vehicle was then struck by a 2020 Ford Escape driven by 60-year-old Jeanine Gray of Iola. Gray sustained minor injuries in the accident and was taken to Labette Health for treatment. Main was uninjured.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment rescinds the boil water advisory for the City of West Mineral in Cherokee County.

The original order was issued on Monday after repairs to a water line caused concern for possible bacterial contamination. Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the City of West Mineral indicates no evidence of bacteriological contamination.

K-D-H-E has deemed that all issues that placed the water supply at risk have been resolved.

The boil water advisory for Allen County Rural Water District #15 remains in effect.

A bill aimed at improving emergency response to severe allergic reactions in schools becomes law in Oklahoma.

House Bill 2047, known as the Emerson Kate Cole Act has become law without the signature of Governor Kevin Stitt. The bill passed both chambers of the Legislature with broad bipartisan support, including a 92-0 vote in the House and a 45-0 in the Senate. It becomes law after the governor took no action within the constitutionally required timeframe, allowing it to take effect without his signature.

The measure requires public schools to call 911 immediately when epinephrine is administered to a student and mandates annual training for school staff on recognizing anaphylaxis, understanding food allergies and properly using epinephrine.

The legislation was prompted by the death of Emerson Kate Cole, a ten-year-old student from Amarillo, TX, who experienced food allergy-related anaphylaxis in 2023, but did not receive epinephrine. She passed away two days later. Her death sparked a push for stronger protocols to ensure timely emergency responses in schools.

The new law will take effect later this summer.

Police in Independence make an arrest following reports of a disturbance.

The incident occurred on Sunday afternoon just after 2pm. 9-1-1 dispatch in Independence received reports of an individual in the 800 block of Landon Drive running out of a residence. The female was heard to be yelling to others to call 9-1-1. I-P-D officers arrived on the scene and conducted an investigation into the occurrence. As a result of their investigation, a juvenile male suspect was taken into custody. The suspect faces charges of criminal damage to property, criminal battery, and interference with law enforcement.

The suspect's name is being withheld due to his age.

A Kansas Department of Transportation resurfacing project in underway near Girard.

The project will consist of work on K-47 between the east city limits of Girard and US-69. Flaggers and a pilot car will direct one-lane traffic through the work zone during daylight hours. Drivers can expect delays of no longer than 15 minutes. Weather permitting, the project should be completed by the end of June.

A slight chance of severe weather is possible tonight for the four-state area.

Eastern Labette and Cherokee County in Kansas and eastern Craig, Ottawa and northern Delaware County in Oklahoma plus southwest Missouri and extreme northern Arkansas are all in the slight risk category for severe weather tonight. Small hail and 60 mph winds are the main threat tonight. Storms are expected to be scattered. Coffeyville has about a 25% chance of a storm between 5 p.m. tonight and 5 a.m. tomorrow morning.

Looking ahead, a soggy Memorial Day Weekend could be in store, with several rounds of widespread rain across the four states. Stay tuned for additional forecasts as the holiday weekend approaches.

The Bartlesville Parks Department is offering a $500 reward for anyone who can provide information on recent vandalism to city parks.

Public Works Director Keith Henry says at least one of the 17 parks the city owns is damaged or vandalized daily. He says they get everything from graffiti, trash, broken light fixtures and damaged playground equipment to restrooms being set on fire and toilets stuffed with various items until they are no longer operable.

The most recent vandalism happened at Sooner Pool last weekend where someone broke into the facility and broke windows. Public Works Building Maintenance Supervisor Mitch Lucas says the cost to repair the windows will be between $800 and $1,000.

If anyone has any information regarding vandalism at parks in Bartlesville call the Bartlesville Police Department at (918)338-4001 or the Parks Department at (918)338-4130.

A Field Kindley High School Senior is awarded a scholarship from The Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Foundation.

Kenedi Redden has received the Dr. Stephen Ellis Memorial Scholarship for the 2025-2026 academic year. This scholarship is awarded each year to a Field Kindley High School senior who excels academically and is seeking a career in healthcare.

While at FKHS, Redden has participated in volleyball, wrestling, softball, Interact Club, FFA, National Honor Society and Student Council. She will study kinesiology at Kansas State University in the fall. Following her bachelor’s degree, Redden plans to earn her graduate degree in occupational therapy.

Millions of Americans will be hitting the road this weekend to celebrate Memorial Day.

Triple A estimates that over 45 million Americans have plans to travel more than 50 miles form home this weekend. That's 1.4 million more than last year. Shawn Steward with Triple-A Kansas says, with so many people expected on the roads, travel need to remember to be patient and buckle up.

Steward says pre-planning your trip can help reduce the stress of traveling.

Triple-A has some good news for Memorial Day travelers. U.S. gas prices are on average about 50 cents lower than last year. The Consumer Price Index also suggests that car rentals and hotel rooms may also cost less than in 2024.

Four County Mental Health requests funding from Montgomery County at this week's commission meeting.

Executive Director of Four County Greg Hennen spoke before the commission on Monday. Hennen says the agency's purpose is to provide mental health services to the residents of Montgomery, Cowley, Wilson, Elk and Chautauqua counties regardless of the patient's ability to pay.

Hennen says that a third of the County's tax receipts from the Special Liquor Tax is earmarked for Four County for alcohol and drug treatment.

Hennen also submitted a request for $160,000 to be allocated for general services, noting that Montgomery County ranks 100^th out of the 105 Kansas counties in mental health funding. This increase in funding would move the county up to 87^th on that list.

Here are the totals from some area rain gauges from yesterday's storms:

Kansas:

KGGF Coffeyville Studios: 0.97

Independence: 0.08"

Sedan: 0.05”

Howard: 0.67”

Altoona: 0.56”

Chetopa: 1.50”

Parsons: 0.83”

Erie: 0.61”

Cherokee: 0.80”

Oklahoma:

Foraker: 0.02”

Copan: 0.08”

Bartlesville: 0.14”

Nowata: 1.40”

Vinita: 0.62”

Miami: 0.40”

Talala: 0.77”

Missouri:

Goodman: 2.13”

Sarcoxie: 0.62”

Arkansas:

Decatur: 2.58”

Bentonville: 1.74”

Severe weather this week leaves storm damage across the state of Kansas.

On Sunday night, a tornado touched down in Kiowa County near Greensburg and moved into Reno County where it caused damage in the City of Plevna, causing damage to homes, trees and power lines. Similar damage was reported in Pratt County in western Kansas, while 15 homes were lost in the City of Grinnell in Gove County.

Despite the significant property damage, no lives were lost and no injuries were reported.

Photo shows aerial view of Grinnell storm damage, courtesy of the Kansas Highway Patrol

The Parsons City Commission is set to approve an incentive package for a company to reopen a movie theater in the City.

At Monday's City Commission meeting, an incentive package was presented that is ready to be offered to a prospective company. The package would include three incentives. The first is a $150,000 forgivable loan that would be forgiven $15,000 a year over a ten year period. The second incentive would be a $125,000 grant for improvements made to the second cinema upgrades, while the third would be a $50,000 incentive based on a tax rebate also occurring over ten years. City Manager Jeff Cantrell spoke in favor of the package and says it would be a quality-of-life benefit for the community.

Commissioner Leland Crooks says, if Parsons wants a movie theater, this is what needs to happen.

Commissioners took no action on the issue at this week's meeting. City Attorney Ross Albertini says this is to give Parsons residents the chance to voice their opinions on the measure.

Parsons residents are urged to contact city commissioners with their thoughts and concerns about the incentive package before the June 2^nd meeting.

Severe thunderstorms that occurred on Sunday in western Kansas cause the derailment of several grain cars.

According to Scott County Emergency Management Director Tim Stoecklein, the storm caused about 15 empty grain cars parked along tracks at the Modoc grain elevator to come off the tracks. The cars were likely waiting to be filled at the time so no grain was spilled.

Four tornadoes touched down in Scott County on Sunday, but damage was mostly limited to downed power lines and trees.

Photo courtesy Scott County Emergency Management

A 20-year-old man is in custody in connection to a break-in at a Girard restaurant.

The Crawford County Sheriff's Office says the suspect allegedly broke a window at the Highway Inn on West St. John Street in Girard. The restaurant says someone entered the establishment and stole some eggs and hashbrowns.

Authorities have not yet released the suspect's name and formal charges have yet to be filed.

An Independence man is arrested following a recent traffic stop.

Just after 3am last Friday morning, officers from the Independence Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the 100 block of West Chestnut Street. After an investigation, the driver of the vehicle, 28-year-old Augustus Truelove of Independence was arrested for possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia.

Due to recent storm damage, the Coffeyville Tree Dump will open early this week.

According to the Coffeyville Public Works Department, additional hours of operation will be today from 8 to 6 p.m. and tomorrow from 8 to 6.

Normal hours of operation will resume on Thursday and Friday from 3 to 6 p.m.,

Saturday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday from noon to 4.

The Kansas Prisoner Review Board reverses its decision to release a man convicted for the 1978 murder of a Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper.

The K-R-B had recently granted the release of Jimmie Nelms, who was convicted of the murder of Trooper Conroy O'Brien during a traffic stop on the Kansas Turnpike in 1978. Public outcry over the decision, combined with outrage from state elected officials and disappointment expressed from the law enforcement community, led to the reversal of the decision.

The 78-year-old Nelms was sentenced to serve two life terms for first-degree murder and aggravated kidnapping in the case.

The severe thunderstorm that moved through the Coffeyville and Independence areas last night leaves downed trees and power outages in its wake.

The storm that rolled across the area around 5pm last night brought high winds with it. A 69 mph wind gust measured at the Coffeyville Municipal Airport is thought to have caused much of the damage. Coffeyville Municipal Power and Light responded to several power outages on the west side of the City. Damage was also reported in Independence. City Engineer John Garris says most of the damage there was localized to the southern parts of the City.

Evergy reported around 800 customers without power, mainly along CR 3900 south of Independence through Dearing, and 166 west from Coffeville through Tyro to near Caney.  Four Rivers Electric also reported just under 100 customers without power in Montgomery County and a few outages in Wilson County.

Power lines down in Dearing - Photo: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

Tree damage in Dearing  - Photo: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

Tree damage in the North Buckeye Area

Tree Damage north of Downtown Coffeyville

Lead Photo: Home damage in Dearing - Photo: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

Crawford County Sheriff detectives and deputies executed a search warrant in Girard.

The warrant was obtained following a traffic stop in rural Girard, where the resident, 52-year-old William Clinton, was arrested for possession of methamphetamine. During the search of the residence, investigators located suspected methamphetamine and both misdemeanor and felony drug paraphernalia.

40-year-old Kristin Dreher and 38-year-old Shanett Jones were both arrested at the residence for possession of methamphetamine and rug paraphernalia.

Multiple departments respond to a fire in rural Wilson County.

At around 5:30am, the Wilson County Fire Department was paged for a structure fire on the east side of the county. Arriving units were faced with heavy smoke and fire.

Firefighters made a quick attempt at an interior attack and search. No one was found inside but the structure was a complete loss. The Neodesha and Altoona Fire Departments assisted on the call.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued boil water advisories for the City of West Mineral in Cherokee County and for Allen County Rural Water District #15.

The West Mineral advisory was issued due to possible contamination that may have occurred during repairs to water lines by Public Wholesale Water Supply District #11, which serves the City of West Mineral. The Allen County advisory was issued due to possible contamination that occurred during the replacement of a hydrant.

Customers of the City of West Mineral water supply and Allen County Rural Water #15 should boil water for at least one full minute prior to consumption, dispose of ice from trays and automatic ice makers, and disinfect dishes and food preparation surfaces until further notice.

The Osage County Sheriff's Office is working to improve accountability through the use of audits.

Since taking office, Sheriff Bart Perrier has been working to clean up the Department's record keeping. One of the major findings from a recent audit is the discovery of 27 firearms. Perrier says it was a major oversight.

Nineteen of those guns have now been returned to their proper locations. Perrier says things like this are less likely to happen when audits are conducted yearly.

Perrier says there are eight pages of various items ranging from computers, chairs, Motorola radios and copiers that they have to get off of their inventory because it no longer exists. To surplus these items will require a resolution from the Osage County Commission.

Authorities in Bartlesville are investigating the weekend drowning of a child.

Bartlesville Police and Bartlesville Fire were called to the scene in the 4700 block of Lewis Drive early Saturday afternoon after emergency calls reported a possible drowning. A 16-month-old child was found on the scene and taken to Jane Phillips Medical Center where he later died.

Law enforcement continues to investigate the circumstances surrounding the child's drowning.

One of the sounds of summer in Independence will see a slight change this year.

The weekly free concerts by the Mid-Continent Band will begin at 8pm during the 2025 Summer Concert Series. The band will perform each Tuesday evening at the Hille Bandshell at Riverside Park. The band's first regular season concert will be on Tuesday, May 27^th.

The band will also perform in a special Memorial Day concert next Monday at 10am at Mount Hope Cemetery.

A Copan native is recognized for her outstanding performance by the U.S. Navy.

U.S. Navy. Petty Officer Third Class Kylie Bates has been selected as Junior Sailor of the Quarter. The award  recognizes sailors who show superior performance, leadership and professionalism. Bates called the recognition a reminder to keep pushing herself and working hard.

Bates is a 2017 graduate of Copan High School and has served in the U.S. Navy for the past five years.

An inmate at the Hutchinson Correctional Facility dies in custody.

Authorities at the facility say 34-year-old inmate Tony Payne was found unresponsive in his cell last Thursday evening. Emergency medical services were called and staff immediately began life-saving measures. Payne was taken to a nearby hospital where he was pronounced dead.

Payne's death is under investigation by the Department of Corrections and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. His cause of death is pending the results of an independent autopsy.

The City of Cherryvale will see more traffic than usual starting just after Memorial Day.

Beginning on May 27th, crews will be working on US-169 to make repairs to the railroad tracks that cross the highway. The construction project will reroute traffic from the highway through the City of Cherryvale on Liberty Street. The detour will cause an increase in traffic during that time and residents are advised to proceed with extra caution while driving, walking or riding bikes.

The repairs are expected to be complete by May 31st.

The Cherokee Nation and the City of Nowata are celebrating the grand opening of the expanded Nowata Food Distribution Center and Senior Nutrition Site. 

The new upgrades and expansions to the facility were made possible by a $2.8 million investment by the Cherokee Nation. Native American Fellowship's Kris Crane says the upgrade has really improved the facility that hosted the ribbon-cutting ceremony last week.

Other parts of the expansion include a 1,500 square foot warehouse, a 400 square foot, conference room, and a 1,500 square foot freezer/cooler.

Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr, along with other leaders from the Cherokee Nation were also on hand to celebrate the grand opening of the new facility. The Nowata Food Distribution Center serves more than 400 homes by providing nutritious food in a grocery store setting. The Senior Nutrition Site serves more than 700 seniors each month and more than 8,400 every year through in-person and home-delivered meals.

Firefighters in Columbus will soon have a new, up-to-date training facility up and running.

The new facility is located behind the Columbus Fire Department on East Maple Street and contains a realistic training center designed to simulate an apartment with a bed, an entrance and windows. The set-up mimics the conditions and structures that firefighters most frequently encounter in the line of duty and will help prepare new firefighters for structure fires where victims might need rescue.

The new facility cost between $15,000 and $20,000 and was paid for by community fundraising efforts. Training is expected to begin at the new facility in the coming weeks.

Photo courtesy Columbus Fire Department

Montgomery County will recognize county employees for their service at today’s Montgomery County Commission meeting.

Human Resources Director Ashley Hand will be in attendance to recognize employees for their years of service. Also on the agenda, Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins will inform commissioners about the results of metal pipe bids and discuss bids for chemicals. There will also be a request from the Department of Corrections to purchase cuffs as well as a review of the request for proposals regarding inmate medical services. Greg Hennen with Four County Mental Health will also present that organization’s annual budget funding request.

Today’s meeting begins at 9am in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The meeting is open to the public and is also available for online viewing via the County’s Facebook page.

Katy Days is happening this weekend in Parsons.

The City of Parsons celebrates its railroad heritage and town history with lots of family-friendly activities and events. The celebration gets underway on Friday evening with the Katy Days parade in downtown Parsons. There will also be food trucks and vendors, a cornhole tournament, a craft fair and demonstrations, live music, and more.

For more information, see katydays.com

A Manhattan hotel is evacuated and two guests are hospitalized following a carbon monoxide leak.

The Manhattan Fire Department was called to the Double Tree by Hilton location on Richards Drive around 11am on Saturday morning following reports of an unknown hazmat situation. Upon arrival, crews found elevated levels of carbon monoxide in the hotel. The hotel was then evacuated and two guests were taken to a nearby hospital while several others received medical treatment on scene.

The cause of the incident was discovered to be a pool heater and inoperable exhaust fans for the heating system.

Guests were allowed back into the building around 3pm on Saturday afternoon.

Two people are dead following a Saturday afternoon collision between a motorcycle and a car near Gore, OK.

49-year-old Chadrick Hornback, the driver of the motorcycle, and his passenger, 41-year-old Rcahel Fox, were both pronounced dead at the scene of the accident that occurred on OK-100 and 4490 Road southwest of Gore. The driver of the other vehicle, 62-year-old Rhonda Eagle, also sustained injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Cherokee County Sheriff’s deputies arrest a suspect in connection to a stolen vehicle in Oklahoma.

33-year-old Levi Rickman was arrested on Saturday after allegedly fleeing from and eluding police. The incident began when officers from the Galena Police Department attempted to stop a vehicle that had been reported stolen in Miami, OK. The driver fled and Galena Police turned the pursuit over to the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Department along with the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The suspect lost control of the vehicle just west of Baxter Springs and then fled on foot. Officers continued to search for the suspect for nearly four hours, when 9-1-1 dispatchers received a call about a suspicious person at an RV park near where the suspect had fled. Law enforcement arrived and identified Rickman as the driver of the vehicle.

Rickman is currently being held in the Cherokee County Jail where he faces multiple charges including fleeing and eluding, burglary, and aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer.

A Joplin man is in custody following a motorcycle chase into Kansas that ended in a crash.

The chase began in Joplin last Thursday when a motorcyclist fled after police attempted a stop for traffic violations. The chase continued across the state line into Kansas and Cherokee County. Joplin Police pursued the suspect with aerial help from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. After crossing into Kansas, the suspect encountered a Cherokee County Sheriff’s deputy who continued the pursuit along Southeast Star Road, east of Baxter Springs. The suspect then failed to negotiate a curve and crashed the motorcycle. The suspect then fled on foot before being quickly apprehended by sheriff’s deputies.

The suspect has been identified as 42-year-old James Colley. Colley is currently being held in the Cherokee County Jail in Columbus and faces multiple charges, including fleeing and eluding, possession of stolen property, and possession of opiates and marijuana.

***** Upadate 8:30 p.m. *****

Severe storms are still possible through 10 p.m. tonight:

***** Update 5:35 p.m. ******

Multiple reports are coming in to the KGGF newsroom of widespread tree damage.  More storm development over the flint hills possible:

***** Update 4:30 p.m. ******

Another round of storms is expected for southeast Kansas now after 5 p.m.  Severe thunderstorm warnings are in effect for northeast Oklahoma.

***** 1:50 p.m. Update *****

A tornado watch is now in effect for southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri until 9 p.m.

In Kansas, the counties include: 

KANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

ALLEN                ANDERSON            ATCHISON
BOURBON              BROWN               BUTLER
CHASE                CHAUTAUQUA          CHEROKEE
CLAY                 COFFEY              COWLEY
CRAWFORD             DICKINSON           DONIPHAN
DOUGLAS              ELK                 FRANKLIN
GEARY                GREENWOOD           HARVEY
JACKSON              JEFFERSON           JOHNSON
LABETTE              LEAVENWORTH         LINN
LYON                 MARION              MARSHALL
MIAMI                MONTGOMERY          MORRIS
NEMAHA               NEOSHO              OSAGE
POTTAWATOMIE         RILEY               SEDGWICK
SHAWNEE              SUMNER              WABAUNSEE
WASHINGTON           WILSON              WOODSON
WYANDOTTE

***** Noon Update *****

A tornado watch has been issued for all of northeast Oklahoma and northwest and north central Arkansas through 7 p.m. tonight.  Strong tornadoes are possible today.  A tornado watch is currently not in effect for southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri, but one could be issued.  A round of severe weather is expected for southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma early this afternoon, with another one possible later tonight.  The severe weather threat should exit southeast Kansas by midnight.  Have mutliple ways to receive warnings today and tonight and stay tuned to KGGF 690 for severe weather updates.

***** Original Story *****

Severe storms are possible once again today as we near the end of a multi-day stretch of unsettled weather.

Today's severe threat will be highest over more of the area compared to previous days. Storms are expected to develop as early as midday in the four-state area in an environment that will be very unstable and strong by afternoon.  Storm development for southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma will be most likely between 3 and 9 p.m.  Southern Montgomery County including Coffeyville and most of northeast Oklahoma, extreme southwest Missouri and northwest Arkansas are now included in the "moderate" risk category, which is a level 4 out of 5.

Storms will be capable of producing high-impact severe weather, including very large hail and strong tornadoes. Another round of storms and some severe potential will accompany the cold front as it sweeps through this evening.

KGGF will provide severe weather coverage today as needed.

Coffeyville Community College celebrated a historic milestone on Saturday.

CCC recognized its 100th graduating class during Commencement ceremonies held at Nellis Hall. To mark the centennial celebration, all graduates and faculty members received a commemorative medallion featuring the College’s 100-Year logo and seal.

Founded in 1923, CCC has been dedicated to providing accessible, affordable, and high-quality education and training. In a recent economic impact study conducted by Lightcast, CCC had a $110 million dollar impact to the region. For a century, CCC has remained a cornerstone of Southeast Kansas, growing alongside the region and helping shape its economic, cultural and intellectual landscape.  

A Kansas native is nominated by President Trump to serve as the Vice Chair of the Federal Reserve for Supervision.

Michelle “Miki” Bowman is a native of Council Grove and a graduate of the University of Kansas and Washburn Law School.  Bowman was the Vice President of Farmers and Drovers Bank in Council Grove and served as the Kansas Bank Commissioner where she was responsible for overseeing hundreds of state-chartered banks, trust companies and money transmitters. Kansas Senator Jerry Moran spoke on Bowman's behalf during a recent Senate hearing on her nomination. Moran says the position for which Bowman has been nominated is an important one.

Moran urged his colleagues to approve Bowman's nomination and says she is the right person for the job.

Bowman's nomination was approved by the Senate Banking Committee on a party-line 13 to 11 vote. She now awaits confirmation by the full Senate.

A single-vehicle accident in rural Montgomery County claims the life of one person.

According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office, the accident occurred in the area of County Road 3100 and County Road 6450 or about 3 ½ miles northwest of Sycamore. The crash happened just before midnight on Tuesday evening. Few details have been released regarding the incident, though the Sheriff's Office has confirmed that an adult female was pronounced deceased at the scene. The victim's name has not been released.

The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

Former Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer announces his candidacy for the 2026 Kansas Governor's race.

Colyer made the announcement this week, citing President Trump's actions during the last presidential race as his inspiration to run. Colyer served as lieutenant governor under Sam Brownback and finished out his term as Governor after Brownback resigned in 2018. Colyer then ran for a full term but was defeated in a close Republican primary by Kris Kobach. He ran again in 2022, but withdrew from the race for health reasons.

Colyer joins Secretary of State Scott Schwab, Wichita business woman Stacy Rogers, and conservative podcaster from Olathe Doug Billings in the race for the Republican nomination.

No Democrat has yet entered the race.

The topic of street paving and repair prompts intense discussion at the most recent meeting of the Neodesha City Commission.

At this week's meeting, commissioners were set to approve a crack sealing project on city streets. During discussion on the proposal, Commissioner Duane Banzet raised the issue that a mill and overlay might be more in line with what is needed on some streets in the city. Mayor Devin Johnson says, due to price increases, crack and chip sealing is currently the City's best option for maintaining roads.

Johnson says the income generated by the City's sales tax won't be enough to cover major paving projects.

Johnson raised the possibility of a bond to pay for mill and overlay, but stated that the commission would need to consult with the city attorney before any such action could be considered. The Neodesha City Commission currently has an empty seat due to the recent resignation of Commissioner Chris Jabben. It was decided that the paving issue should be tabled until the May 28^th meeting in hopes a third commissioner would be appointed by that time.

Five of the six state universities in Kansas are asking for tuition hikes for the next fiscal year.

Emporia State is the only school not asking for an increase in tuition. Of the five other schools, Pittsburg State is asking for the lowest increase at 2.5%. Fort Hays State is asking for the biggest increase at 4%, followed by Kansas State and Wichita State at 3.5% and the University of Kansas at 3%. The requested increase would affect undergraduate students in the 2025-26 academic year.

The Board of Regents schools have all recently faced challenges including a decline in the population of college-age Kansans, a decrease in enrollment among international students, and demands for financial support of college athletics.

The nine-member Kansas Board of Regents has authority over tuition adjustments, but often adopt recommendations made by leaders at the various schools.

DUI charges have been dropped against a man in Ottawa County in connection to the UTV crash that killed a 9-year-old Commerce boy.

The Ottawa County District Attorney's Office has announced it has dropped the DUI charges against Douglas Gray. The 67-year-old Gray was driving the UTV side-by-side involved in the April 22 accident that killed 9-year-old Easton Freeman. Witnesses to the accident say Freeman was running alongside the vehicle when he slipped in the mud, fell, and was hit by the UTV. The boy later died from his injuries at a Tulsa hospital.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigated the accident and indicated that Gray had refused preliminary breath and blood tests at the scene and originally submitted a recommendation to charge Gray with manslaughter. However, prosecutors decided to file only the DUI charge, which has now been dropped.

The O-H-P says it is continuing to investigate the case.

Authorities are currently investigating the drowning of a man at Big Hill Reservoir east of Cherryvale.

Officers from the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks responded on Wednesday evening to reports of a drowning at Big Hill. Search and rescue crews used a robotic submersible vehicle to locate and recover the body of a 20-year-old man.

Law enforcement is currently investigating the circumstances surrounding the man's death. No other details about the incident, including the identity of the victim have been released.

An 18-year-old Sterling man is dead following a collision with a semi truck in central Kansas.

Nathaniel Dold died yesterday evening when his vehicle crossed the center line on K-156 just northeast of Ellsworth and struck the semi. The accident occurred around 7pm.

Dold was a senior at Lyons High School and was scheduled to graduate on Sunday.

The driver of the semi truck, identified as 58-year-old Noel Schilling of Morrill, Kansas, sustained minor injuries and was taken to the Ellsworth County Hospital for treatment.

As the school year comes to an end, it's time for parents and caregivers to face the time-honored tradition of wondering what to do to keep the kids busy this summer.

Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says a great activity for the kids is a visit to the Little House on the Prairie site.

Wilson says the area is fortunate to have such a great historical site nearby.

Little House on the Prairie is located just southwest of Independence at 2507 County Road 3000.

The Montgomery County Action Council reports good indicators for business in the area.

MAC Executive Director Melissa Johnson spoke recently at the Montgomery County Commission meeting. Johnson highlighted for the commission the purpose of Mac, which is to collaborate with local and regional partners to attract new business investment and encourage expansion of existing companies. Johnson says the group also works with lawmakers.

Johnson says another key focus is helping companies bring new employees to the area.

Johnson also highlighted areas in Montgomery County that have recently opened for possible expansion.

A single-vehicle fatality accident is under investigation in Montgomery County.

Montgomery County Sheriff’s Deputies, along with Independence Fire EMS and the Sycamore Rural Fire Department, responded to a report of a possible fatality accident about three and a half miles northwest of Sycamore.

Upon arrival, first responders confirmed the single-vehicle accident. An adult female was pronounced dead at the scene. The incident remains under active investigation. At this time, the identities of those involved are being withheld due to the investigation.

Graduation season continues and we're bringing you live coverage for area commencements.

On Sunday, we'll bring you Independence High School's graduation live from Memorial Hall at 1:00pm. IHS Graduation on Classic Hits 104.1 is brought to you by Bartlett Coop, Muller Construction and Great Plains Federal Credit Union. 

KGGF KQQF and KUSN are bringing you live coverage for area graduations this weekend.

Field Kindley High School graduation begins at 10:00am on Saturday and can be heard on Sonshine 98.9. 2025 FKHS graduation is brought to you by Bartlett Coop, Muller Construction, H&R Block of Coffeyville, the City of Coffeyville, People's Choice Credit Union and Acme Foundry.

May means graduation season, and KGGF KQQF and KUSN are providing live coverage of area commencements.

Caney Valley High School graduation begins at 10:00am on Saturday and can be heard on Classic Hits 104.1. Acme Foundry, Bartlett Coop and Muller Construction bring you the live broadcast on 104.1.

Graduation season continues and KGGF KQQF and KUSN are bringing you live coverage for area commencements.

Labette County High School graduation begins at 10:00 a.m. on Saturday and can be heard on US 98. Bartlett Coop and Muller Construction bring you the 2025 LCHS graduation on US 98.

A Bartlesville woman who was convicted of conspiracy after a murder in Osage County in 2022 is now facing a felony charge in Washington County.

37-year-old Dacia Dorris was charged on Tuesday with child neglect.

According to the Bartlesville Police Department, Dorris allegedly left her child at home unattended for approximately nine hours between the afternoon hours on April 27 to the early morning of April 28. Police were called to the residence to perform a wellness check.

Dorris was one of six suspects in the murder of 50-year-old Corey Sequiche in Osage County in 2022. A first-degree murder charge against Dorris was dismissed in September 2023. She was convicted of conspiracy in the case and sentenced to a 10-year suspended sentence.

Dorris will appear in Washington County court again on the child neglect charge on June 13. She posted her bond.

The Mayes County Health Department is holding free diabetes education classes.

The classes will cover topics such as understanding the effects of diabetes, how to make healthy food choices, glucose monitoring, and how to create and achieve personal goals. The classes will be held on Wednesdays from 10 to 11:30am at the Mayes County Health Department located at 111 Northeast First Street in Pryor, Oklahoma, until June 4.

For more information, call 918-825-4224 or email ChrissyS@health.ok.gov.

Warm weather means allergy season to many people.

As the trees and plants begin to bloom, many people are plagued by seasonal allergies. According to the CDC, 1 in 3 adults and 1in 4 kids suffer from seasonal allergies, but there are some things sufferers can do to lessen the severity of symptoms. Dr. Ravi Johar with United Healthcare says one of the best preventatives is to avoid the source of the allergens.

For those still struggling with symptoms, Johar says there are some good over-the-counter medications that may help.

If symptoms continue to worsen, Johar says you should visit your personal healthcare provider.

I-70 in western Kansas was closed briefly last night due to visibility issues caused by blowing dust.

Both lanes of the interstate were closed to all traffic for nearly two hours late Wednesday night between Goodland and the Colorado border due to hazardous travel conditions. This comes on the heels of Governor Laura Kelly's recent proclamation that all counties in the state are currently under a drought watch at a minimum. Counties in south central Kansas are under a drought warning, while Reno, Harvey, and Sedgwick counties are under a drought emergency as dry conditions persist across the state.

All lanes of traffic on I-70 were reopened around midnight last night.

Drivers can get the latest updates on road closures and conditions, by visiting kandrive.gov, or calling 511 in Kansas or 866-511-5368 outside Kansas.

Authorities have released the name of a man killed in a motorcycle crash on the Broken Arrow Expressway on Monday.

Investigators say 37-year-old Scott Allen Zinn was killed on Monday after his motorcycle rear-ended another vehicle on the Broken Arrow Expressway. Reports indicate that Zinn was traveling at a high rate of speed when the accident occurred. The driver of the other vehicle was uninjured.

Montgomery County Public Works announces the closure of a county road located southwest of Sycamore for repairs.

County Road 5400 will be closed for the next 90 days just west of County Road 3300 to allow county road crews to replace a culvert in the area. 5400 is a commonly used route heading west from US-75 to Elk City Reservoir. Both lanes of the road will be closed to traffic for the duration of the project.

Anyone with questions or concerns can contact the Montgomery County Public Works Department office at (620) 330-1170 .

The Cherokee County Health Department confirms a case of whooping cough at Baxter Springs High School.

The illness was confirmed this week and made known to residents via a letter to parents of students in USD 508. Whooping cough, also known as pertussis, is a highly contagious respiratory illness that is spread through coughing or sneezing.

Symptoms typically appear within 21 days of exposure and may begin with cold-like symptoms. These early signs are often followed, within one to two weeks, by severe coughing fits that can persist for weeks or even months. During these coughing spells, young children may gag, gasp, or experience difficulty breathing, often making a high-pitched "whooping" sound. Vomiting or extreme fatigue can follow these episodes.

Vaccination remains the best protection against pertussis, with D-TaP for children and T-dap for adolescents and adults. Making sure vaccinations are up to date can help prevent the spread of this illness, especially among older adults, pregnant women, and infants.

The City of Coffeyville is still working out the details of a utility rate increase.

In recent meetings over the past few weeks, the Coffeyville City Commission has voted in favor of a rate increase in the coming year. However, the details of the increase have not yet been established. Currently, the City says the proposed increase could be around 7%. What remains unclear is exactly how the increase will happen. Some city commissioners want to raise the rates gradually over the next year. The most recent amendment to the increase would see a 2% increase in July and then another increase in January. A second reading of the proposal will occur at the May 27^th Commission meeting, which will then be subject to a Commission vote.

Coffeyville City Manager Ben Brubaker says there's a lot that goes into this issue, but explains that electric rates in Coffeyville have not kept up with surrounding areas.

Brubaker says another part of the reason for the rate increase is that the city's wholesale power supplier, GRDA, implemented a 4% increase in October 2024.

The City of Coffeyville FAQ page can be seen here.

The Oklahoma State Legislature passes a bill prohibiting the use of cell phones and other personal electronic devices during the school day.

Pawhuska Superintendent Chris Tanner says the district needs to begin working on a rough draft for guidelines on how to monitor phone usage.  Oklahoma Schools must have policies in place during the first year, but have the option of opting out after the 2025-2026 school year.

Three new officers are sworn-in to the Coffeyville Police Department. Police Chief Kwin Bromley says officers Tori Johnson, Leslie Rios and Tyler Stryd have all relocated to Coffeyville from different parts of the country.

Chief Bromley says candidates have to take a written aptitude test and a physical agility test, then go through an interview process, go on a ride-along, and go through three background checks before going through the police academy.

Mayor Deborah Maples swore in all three officers alongside their families. Officer Johnson was joined by her father, Gary Johnson, Officer Rios by her daughter, Mia Rios and Officer Stryd by his wife, Billie Stryd.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will host several open house in events in June regarding proposed improvements to US-69 in Crawford County.

The project is a highway corridor study to evaluate the current and future needs of U.S. 69 in Crawford County. Stakeholder and public input, as well as traffic and safety data will be compiled and analyzed, with a goal of forming a list of issues and opportunities for the highway. The limits begin at the intersection of East 650th Avenue, north of Arma in Crawford County, extending 18 miles to U.S. 69 and K-103 in Cherokee County.

On June 4^th, there will be a meeting at the Sacred Heart Catholic Church in Frontenac from 11am to 1pm, and at Pittsburg High School from 4 to 6pm. On June 5^th, there will be a session from 11 to 1 at the Homer Cole Community Center in Pittsburg and from 4 to 6 at Northeast Arma High School.

There will also be a virtual open house from 11am to noon on Friday June 6^th.

Travelers on US-400 between southeast Kansas and Wichita may need to do a bit a pre-planning when it comes to stops for the next couple of days.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the rest area on US-400 near Beaumont will be closed for maintenance today and tomorrow. Both the building and the parking lot at the facility will be closed.

KDOT says the rest area will reopen on Friday.

A Nevada man is in custody on kidnapping charges following a brief standoff with police.

Deputies from the Vernon County Sheriff's Office went to the residence of Brian Pearce earlier this week to serve an arrest warrant based on an incident that occurred on March 25. On that day, police were called to Pearce's residence after a car accident occurred on the nearby road. Three teenage boys were involved in the crash, and Pearce is alleged to have approached the boys and demanded they leave his property while holding them at gunpoint.

Authorities say Pearce yelled at the boys and forced them to sit in the ditch with their hands behind their heads. A witness recorded a video of the incident.

When police attempted to serve the arrest warrant on Pearce this week, he briefly barricaded himself inside his home. He did finally surrender to authorities without incident.

Pearce now faces charges of unlawful possession of a firearm, unlawful use of a weapon, and three counts of 3^rd degree kidnapping.

Photo courtesy Vernon County Sheriff's Office

A former U.S. Senator from Missouri has died.

Christopher “Kit” Bond passed away on May 13 at the age of 86. Bond was a sixth generation Missourian who was born in St. Louis on March 6, 1939. He attended Princeton University and the University of Virginia School of Law. He began his political career in 1968 when he ran for Congress, but lost in the general election. In 1972, Bond became the youngest governor in Missouri's history at the age of 33. He would win the office again in 1981 to be the state's 47^th and 49^th governor. He served as U.S. Senator from Missouri from 1987 through 2011.

Bond passed away in St. Louis yesterday.

Governor Laura Kelly orders flags to be flown at half staff in honor of Peace Officers Memorial Day.

Flags at all state building will fly at half-staff from sunup to sundown tomorrow to pay tribute to local, state and federal peace officers who have died or been disabled in the line of duty.

Kelly stated that Kansas peace officers put their lives on the line in service to their communities and fellow Kansans, and that Peace Officers Memorial Day is a solemn reminder to acknowledge and appreciate their sacrifices and commitment.

With the Wilson County Rodeo just over a week away, the Wilson County Pro Rodeo is warning of potential ticket scams.  The Media Coordinator for the group, Sharon Mowry says it has come to their attention that several unauthorized websites are falsely claiming to sell tickets to the Wilson County Rodeo.  She says to avoid scams or inflated prices, tickets should only be purchased through the only official website for advance ticket sales, which is WilsonCountyFairandRodeo.com.

The Rodeo is scheduled in Fredonia for next Friday and Saturday, May 23rd and 24th. Advance tickets are $10 for adults, $5 for Kids 6 to 12, and free for Kids 5 and under. Tickets will be available at the gate for $15.

The Neodesha City Commission will entertain a light agenda when it meets this afternoon.

Up for discussion will be the approval of a bid for street paving and the consideration of the sale of property from the city land bank.

Mayor Devin Johnson is also expected to issue proclamations for National Police Week and Emergency Medical Services Week.

Today's meeting begins at 2pm at City Hall. The meeting is open to the public and is available for viewing via the City's Facebook page.

The 2025 winter wheat crop forecast is in for Kansas, and there is some promise on the horizon.

According to the National Agricultural Statistics Service, based on May 1^st conditions, the crop is forecast at 345 million bushels, up 12% from last year's crop. Average yield in Kansas is forecast at 50 bushels per acre, up 7 bushels from last year. Acreage to be harvested for grain is estimated at 6.9 million acres, down 250,000 from last year.

On the crop progress side, 72% of the crop was rated fair or good, with 6% excellent. In Oklahoma, wheat is rated 85% fair or good, with 5% excellent.

In southeast Kansas, winter wheat headed is 94% with corn well underway at 78% emerged.

While rain is a recent memory for southeast Kansas, portions of south central Kansas haven't seen measurable rain in quite some time.

Dry conditions have prompted the governor to declare a drought emergency for Harvey, Reno and Sedgwick Counties. Surrounding counties in the area are now under a drought warning, including Cowley, Butler and Greenwood Counties.

Under recommendation from the Kansas Water Office, all of Eastern Kansas is now in a drought watch, including Chautauqua, Elk, Wilson, Montgomery, Neosho, Labette, Crawford and Cherokee Counties. Every county in Kansas is now included in at least a drought watch according to the state.

Counties in emergency status are eligible to use water from some state fishing lakes and federal reservoirs with permission. The state is urging water conservation as we head into the summer months.

One person is dead and two others are injured following a crash on I-70 west of Topeka.

The accident occurred in Wabaunsee County around 11:15 yesterday morning, when a 2017 Hyundai Santa Fe driven by 64-year-old Kimberly Terhune of Maple Hill, KS, was traveling westbound on the Interstate. The vehicle crossed the median into the Eastbound lanes of I-70 where it struck an oncoming pickup truck. The driver of the truck – 73-year-old Mark Robb of Manhattan sustained a minor injury while his passenger – 75-year-old Judith Robb – was seriously injured. Both were taken to a nearby hospital for treatment

Terhune sustained fatal injuries in the accident.

A 26-year-old man is injured in a car crash near Neosho.

Newton County deputies, Neosho Rural Fire, and Newton County Ambulance responded to a rollover crash on Old Scenic Drive near Shoal Creek near Neosho on Monday afternoon. The accident occurred around 4pm when a southbound Nissan Xterra left the roadway to the right, overcorrected, and then left the roadway to the left, before striking a fence and overturning.

The driver, Rhett Griggs of Pierce City, Missouri, was taken to a Joplin hospital with minor injuries and was also cited for DWI.

The USD 447 Cherryvale-Thayer School Board approves funding for the purchase of HVAC materials and new Chromebooks for students.

At Monday's meeting, board members voted to approve the purchase of HVAC equipment for Lincoln Central at a cost of $170,000. Installation will not take place until the summer of 2026, but the funding was approved because costs are expected to increase in the next year. Superintendent Travis Githens says, the purchase makes sense to save money and that the district has room to store the materials.

In other action, the board also approved the purchase of new student Chromebooks. Board member Phil Murphy voted in favor of the measure but also wonders if there's too much emphasis on screen time.

The Board approved the purchase by a 6-0 vote.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a stream advisory for Bear Creek and an unnamed tributary west of Bear Creek near the City of Peru.

The location of the advisory is between Road 21 and Highway 166 about two miles west of Peru.

The advisory was issued due to storm water runoff from a sulfur stockpile entering the unnamed tributary and lowering pH levels significantly as well as liberating a variety of metals at high concentrations. KDHE is currently working with the landowner to mitigate the contamination and address the source problem.

Contaminants may be present in the waters of Bear Creak and tributary and K-D-H-E advises residents to stay away from the waterways until the streams can be deemed safe.

A report of a hit-and-run accident in Parsons leads to the arrest of a suspect on felony charges.

The initial hit-and-run occurred around 10:30 last Friday morning, when police were called to the 2700 block of Briggs Avenue. Upon arrival, officers encountered a chaotic and developing situation that quickly escalated into a serious investigation involving allegations of violence, aggravated burglary, and a firearms-related offense.

The victim in the case stated that the suspect – 28-year-old Cedric Webb Jr – had struck their vehicle as he was fleeing their residence. Prior to the accident, the victim told officers that Webb had entered their residence without permission, struck and choked the victim, and displayed an AR-15 style weapon. Webb was not found at the scene, but later appeared voluntarily at the Parsons Police Department where he admitted to officers that he carried a weapon for personal protection but denied that he had entered the victim's home.

Statements from multiple witnesses, physical evidence, and surveillance footage led to Webb being taken into custody. He was arrested on charges of Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Battery, Battery, Driving While Suspended, Leaving the Scene of an Accident and Failure to Report. Webb was taken to the Labette County Jail and his bond is set at $100,000.

The investigation remains ongoing.

Memorial Day is coming up on May 26 and that means Kansans will be hitting the road and marking the holiday with family and friends.

Montgomery County Sheriff Ron Wade reminds drivers and passengers to buckle up and drive safely during the holiday travel season. Beginning on May 18, Montgomery County Deputies will be out in force with h increased enforcement, looking specifically for unrestrained drivers, passengers, and children.

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office will be ticketing and educating violators of adult seat belt and child safety laws, as well as enforcing other traffic regulations. Sheriff Wade urges all drivers to obey the law to ensure everyone arrives safely at their destinations.

Tempers flare at this week's Nowata County Commission meeting.

Tensions rose in Monday's meeting when Mike Bell of Bellco Trucking asked the board why his bid wasn't awarded for loading and hauling miscellaneous materials. Chairman Paul Crupper says there was a reason for the denial.

Also at this week's meeting, commissioners discussed the latest courthouse improvements involving electrical maintenance.

Commissioners also approved a license agreement with the Public Service Company of Oklahoma .

Nowata County Emergency Manager Laurie Summers also announced that there will be more damage assessment from the recent floods

The Osage County Sheriff's is working to locate the owners of unclaimed guns kept by the Office.

When Sheriff Bart Perrier took office in January, the Department listed a total of 27 guns that were unaccounted for. One of those belonged to Osage County Commissioner and former employee at the Sheriff's Office Charlie Cartwright. Cartwright says the issue was one of improper paperwork.

The Sheriff's Office has tracked down the owner of 19 of the guns with only 8 remaining unclaimed.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is warning the public about scam texts currently circulating that demand payment for unpaid tolls and claim to be from KDOT.

KDOT reminds citizens that it does not collect roadway tolls or request payment via text message. Anyone receiving a text like this is advised that it is a scam and that the text should be deleted immediately and reported as spam. Do not click or open any links in the message because this may expose personal information to the scammers.

Never share personal or financial information via text message or by clicking on unknown links. If you think you may have provided payment information at a fraudulent website, contact your bank or credit card company immediately.

The Coffeyville City Commission makes changes to the ordinance amending the utility rates.

Commissioner Alec Hendryx says he has an amendment to the ordinance that was read at the last meeting.  Commissioner Don Edwards says he would rather have a work session to see how they could adjust the budget rather than raise rates.

The commission voted 4-1 to approve the amendment with the 2% increase taking place in July and a 5% increase in January. Due to the change of the ordinance, a second reading will be done at the next meeting.

A link to the full commission meeting can be found here.

Current prices for livestock markets have made cattle more valuable, which can put animals at a higher risk of being stolen.

With bottle calves and cow-calf pairs being common targets, Kansas Livestock Association Vice President of Communications Scarlett Madinger says brands are the most important way ranchers can protect their livestock.

Madinger says it's important for ranchers to keep track of their livestock just in case some do go missing.  Madinger says restricting access to pens and pastures can also help reduce the chances of theft.

USD 446 hears from the finalist candidates for the position on the Independence Recreation Commission at this month's meeting.

Four of the five candidates were present at the meeting, with the fifth providing a written statement to be read in her absence. One candidate, Jan Allison, says that sports are crucial to a child's development.

Another candidate for the position is Sam Carnes, who serves as vice principal and athletic director at Independence Middle School. Carnes says there is improvement to be made in area youth sports.

Also speaking to the board was Michael Rose, who is the coordinator of the Sparkwheel program at IMS. Rose says the emphasis needs to be on increasing involvement, specifically from young women.

The USD 446 Board will choose a representative at the June board meeting. Additional items of business was Rene Stanley being one of three Region 2 semifinalists for the Kansas Teacher of the Year award.

 A light agenda in the Caney USD436 School Board sees the renewing of the food service agreement with Opaa Food Management.

 Rick Stephens, Director of Nutrition Services, also known to students as Grandpa Rick, Uncle Rick, or Cafeteria Dude, was on-hand to answer questions and receive feedback from board members. Superintendent Blake Vargas says the district is pleased to continue working with Mr. Stephens, his team, and Opaa.

 In other business, the board approved the retirement of Cathy Estes and approved the hiring of Michael Jones as CVHS Custodian and Harold Aiken as district custodian.

There's good news today for fans of South Coffeyville sports.

At last night's South Coffeyville school board meeting, members approved spending up to $45,000 on new scoreboards for all fields and the gym. The board decided to go ahead with the approval with hopes the scoreboards arrive before school starts in the fall.

The requirement to have a 35-second shot clock in Oklahoma will go into effect during the 2026-2027 school year, although it will be optional for South Coffeyville's athletic classification.

In other business, the board rehired non-certified personnel and coaches for the upcoming school year, approved next year's school calendar, hired Alexis Close as a full-time substitute teacher and gave approval to Superintendent Daryl Pruter to hire summer help for hourly employment.

The USD 445 school board tours the natatorium to get a first-hand look at the damage inside the building.

Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll says they're primarily looking at the roof.  Correll says they'll have full idea of the cost associated with repairs at the June board meeting.

In other business, the board approved the changes to the Early Learning Center, Community Elementary School, Roosevelt Middle School and Field Kindley High School handbooks for the 2025-2026 school year.

A Parsons man is arrested after a family dispute.

Yesterday at around 3:30pm, Parsons Police officers responded to a disturbance call in the 1000 block of South 16^th Street involving a verbal and physical altercation between two family members. Upon arrival, officers contacted the victim, a 62-year-old male, who reported that he had been involved in an argument with the suspect, 37-year-old Bryant McQuarie. During the altercation, McQuarie began striking the victim's truck, which was parked near the alley, and proceeded to throw two bricks and a banana at the victim before approaching him.

While still on the phone with dispatchers, the victim said that McQuarie had left the scene on foot. Officers began a search of the area before locating him in the 800 block of South 14^th Street. McQuarie refused to provide a statement and was detained due to the ongoing investigation.

Officers also spoke with a neighbor, who witnessed the incident. The neighbor confirmed that she saw McQuarie damaging the vehicle and throwing objects at the victim. The neighbor expressed concern for their own safety but agreed to provide a written statement to help the investigation.

Based on the statements and witness accounts, McQuarie was taken into custody and transported to the Parsons Police Department. Charges for Aggravated Assault and Criminal Damage to Property are pending review by the Labette County Attorney's Office.

Montgomery County looks to apply for grant money to help cover the cost of repairs to county bridges.

At this week's Montgomery County Commission meeting, Director of Public Works Brandon Beurskins told commissioners that there were two grant programs that might cover county projects: the Off-system Bridge Program and the Local Bridge Improvement Program. There are four bridges that would qualify for the Off-System grant and another three for the Local Bridge Program. Beurskins says the county would be required to contribute matching funds for each.

Commissioner Robert Bever says this might be a good time to look into possible solutions for a low-water crossing on County Road 6200, north of Cherryvale.

In other business, commissioners approved a request from Rural Fire to seeks bids on the purchase of 14 sets of new bunker gear for firefighters.

A traffic stop near Chetopa leads to the arrest of a New York man on 38 felony charges.

A Labette County Sheriff's Deputy conducted the stop on Maple Street in Chetopa, where the suspect's vehicle was traveling at 50 mph in a 25 mph zone. During the stop, a K-9 officer was deployed to conduct an “open air” sniff of the vehicle, which resulted in the indication of the presence of narcotics in the car. A search of the vehicle revealed 17 fake Ids using the driver's photo, 10 fake US Treasury checks, and more than $8,000 in cash. The Labette County Sheriff's Office says it later discovered that the suspect had already cashed 5 treasury checks in Tulsa for a total of another $8,000.

The driver was taken into custody and faces multiple charges, including counterfeiting, forgery, and identity theft.

The City of Altamont is taking on a problem brought to light by the recent rains.

The problem is a leaky roof on a city building. Assistant Public Works Superintendent Nate Barnett says the problem is standing water.

This isn't the first time this spring the city has faced such an issue. A contractor has recently completed a similar repair on a different building. Council member Lyle Sykes says it would be a good idea to get a quote from that company.

The Council decided to bring in two contractors to examine the roof this week while there is no rain in the forecast. In other business, the council voted to table action on the Idle Hours Lake annexation until the May 22^nd meeting.

An early morning crash on the Broken Arrow Expressway in the Tulsa metro area leaves a motorcyclist dead.

The crash occurred around 1am this morning. Police officers report that the motorcycle was traveling at a high rate of speed when it struck another vehicle. The motorcyclist was pronounced dead at the scene.

The accident shut down the eastbound lanes of the highway for a time, but traffic has since been restored in the area.

The name of the motorcyclist has not yet been released.

The USD 445 Coffeyville School Board will meet this afternoon to discuss the purchase of a new phone system.

At today's meeting Board members will be asked to consider the approval of a new phone system from Verge Network Solutions. If approved, the new system would be installed by the beginning of the new school year next fall at a cost of just over $73,000. The Board will also consider changes to school hand books for the coming school year as well as conducting a discussion of several personnel changes.

Today's meeting begins at 4pm at the District Office and is open to the public.

The body of a Wichita man who disappeared while kayaking on a river in northwest Arkansas has been recovered.

Authorities say that 57-year-old Hector Rios was found on Thursday evening around 4pm. His body was located in the waters of the Mulberry River north of Mill Creek in Franklin County. Search and rescue teams had been looking for the man since he went missing on Saturday, May 3. Officials from the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission say Rios was not wearing a life jacket when he was found and that the life jacket was found in his kayak.

Rios was an optometrist in Wichita.

The USD 447 Cherryvale-Thayer School Board will meet tonight and one topic of discussion will be the purchase of HVAC equipment for Lincoln Central.

The replacement of the HVAC system at the school is scheduled to begin during the summer of 2026, but the School Board has been advised that purchasing the materials now will give the district a substantial savings. The cost is estimated at $170,000.

The Board will also consider the replacement of student Chromebooks as well as staff work stations. District Director of Technology Devon Hestand will appear before the Board to discuss bids and answer questions.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 7pm and will be held at the USD 447 Central Office, located at 618 East 4th Street in Cherryvale. The meeting is open to the public.

The Montgomery County Commission is set to meet today with bridges, bids and juvenile corrections on the agenda.

At today’s meeting, Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins will be on hand to discuss applications for a program for bridges in the county. Also up for discussion will be the submission of bids to purchase new bunker gear for Rural Fire. Melissa Johnson with the Montgomery County Action Council is also scheduled to speak as is Kenneth Fecke, who will present the quarterly report from Juvenile Services.

There will also be a discussion about a temporary position in the County Clerk’s Office.

Today’s meeting begins at 9am in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The meeting is open to the public and is also available for viewing online via the County’s Facebook page.

Kansas Works will be hosting a virtual job fair this weekend.

The job fair will occur online and will be accessible through any digital device, though it is recommended that attendees use a PC. Those seeking employment will be able to fill out applications, chat live, and interview virtually with participating employers. Training videos, a list of participating employers, and channels for attendees to register and log in are also available through the job fair online portal. Participants are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Registration is required. The KansasWorks virtual job fair runs from Friday through Sunday. To register, follow this link.

There will also be an in-person job fair in Fort Scott on Wednesday. That event will run from 11am to 2pm and then from 4 to 6pm in the Ellis Fine Arts Center on the campus of Fort Scott Community College.

A weekend house fire leaves one person dead in Collinsville.

Fire crews from Collinsville Rural Fire and Owasso Fire responded to the call early Sunday morning. Reports indicated that a two-story house north of Highway 20 near Collinsville had caught fire. The Oklahoma State Fire Marshal’s Office has confirmed that one person perished in the blaze. The victim’s name has not yet been released and the cause of the fire is still under investigation.

The leader of the Kansas Highway Patrol expresses disappointment after a man convicted of killing a state trooper in 1978 is granted parole.

Superintendent of the K-H-P Colonel Erik Smith called the recent decision by the Kansas Prisoner Review Board to grant parole to Jimmie Nelms a “gut-punch.”

Nelms was sentenced to two life terms for the 1978 killing of State Trooper Conroy O’Brien during a traffic stop on the Kansas Turnpike near Matfield Green, between El Dorado and Emporia. As O’Brien was writing a citation, Nelms and two other men got out of their car and overpowered the 26-year-old trooper. They then forced him to kneel in the ditch where he was shot twice, execution-style in the head.

Smith went on to explain that while the idea of allowing a convicted cop-killer to be released from prison was unacceptable in his view, the legal framework does allow for parole. Smith added that troopers will continue to serve with professionalism and dignity.

Nelms is now in his 70s, and though no official date has been given for his release, the Board has stated that he will be released to out-of-state family.

A weekend fire in Webb City causes considerable damage to a historic home.

A fire broke out early Sunday morning at the historic home of Elizabeth Jane Eliza Webb Stewart Chinn, also known as Jane Chinn. She was born in Tennessee in 1829 and was a cousin of Webb City founder John Webb.

The fire at the home broke out around 2am on Sunday morning and fire crews arrived on the scene to find smoke and flames coming out of the second-floor windows of the building. All occupants of the structure were able to safely escape the blaze and utilities to the home have been turned off due to the extensive damage.

The Missouri State Fire Marshal has been called in to investigate the cause of the fire.

A suspected bank robber is in custody in southwest Missouri.

Police arrested 28-year-old David Cox last week in connection to a bank robbery that occurred on Saturday, May 3. On that day, witnesses say a white male entered the Commerce Bank location on West 20th Street in Joplin and gave the teller a note demanding money. The man also told the teller that was armed with a handgun. The teller gave the man $200 in cash at which point the suspect stated: “This was a bad idea.” The suspect then fled the bank on foot.

A probable cause statement notes that, during the robbery, surveillance cameras were able to capture images of some very distinctive tattoos on the suspects hands, which allowed Joplin Police to identify the suspect as Cox. The detective who then phoned Cox says he admitted on the phone that he had robbed the bank and expressed that he felt it was an awful idea. Cox later turned himself in to the authorities.

He is currently being held in the Joplin City Jail and faces charges of 1st degree robbery and armed criminal action.

Organizers in Cherryvale are gearing up for another Cherry Blossom Festival.

The annual event features lots of family-friendly fun and is one of the largest on the calendar in Cherryvale.

City Administrator Michael Hall says festivities will get started on Thursday.

Hall says Saturday will be filled with all-day activities.

KGGF microphones will be there with a live remote broadcast during Open Line this Saturday from 9 to 11 a.m.

An Osage County man is facing a felony charge of embezzlement.

According to the Hominy Police Department, in late March, they discovered that City of Hominy Employee Jesse Garrett had been stealing property. HPD says officers gathered evidence of Garrett stealing around $4,000 in property and pawned it off. Also, Garrett allegedly used some electrical supplies at his residence and used City gas in his personal vehicle.