Cedar Bluff Camp's annual Night of Fright and Spook Trail is this weekend.

Organizer Chuck McFate says it takes place every year during the last two weekends of October. With last weekend's event cancelled due to rain, tonight and tomorrow will be your only chance this year to participate. McFate says this is a ride-through event and is fun for all ages.

Night of Fright starts tonight and tomorrow at dusk and goes until 11 at Cedar Bluff Camp just north of Coffeyville. Tickets are $10 and concessions will also be available.

A third suspect in the shooting of Congressional Intern Eric Tarpinian-Jachym is arrested in Washingotn D.C.

18-year-old Naquan Antonio Lucas has been charged with first-degree murder in the June death of the 21-year-old Tarpinian-Jachym on June 30. The Granby, Massachusetts, native was an intern in the office of Kansas Congressman Ron Estes.

Two 17-year-olds are also charged in the crime. Kelvin Thomas JR. and Jailen Lucas have both been charged as adults for first degree murder while armed.

Court documents indicate that Tarpinian-Jachym was an innocent bystander and was not the intended target in the shooting.

It's Halloween and that means there may be more people out and about this afternoon and evening.

For those who plan to go trick-or-treating door-to-door, remember some simple safety tips to make sure eveyon has a fun, safe time. Pedestrians should use the buddy system and avoid walking alone. If possible, cross streets at intersections or crosswalks and look for cars in all directions. Follow the rules of the road and obey all signs and signals.

For drivers, be alert for pedestrians and trick-or-treaters, slow down and watch for children in unexpected places. Kids may be unaware of traffic and dart into the street without warning.

Following a few simple rules canhelp make sure eveyone has a safe and fun Halloween night.

Kansas tourism is a thriving industry.

That's the word from the Kansas Department of Commerce that oversees Kansas Tourism. Coffeyville Tourism Director Wyatt Starnes says tourism dollars are a driving economic force across the state.

Starnes says the communities in southeast Kansas are a large part of those numbers.

More than half a million visitors are expected when Kansas City hosts the World Cup this coming summer, with many of those visitors expected to explore activities in other parts of the state.

Food insecurity or the lack of consistent access to enough food for an active, healthy life is a problem for many Americans.

Nearly 14% of U.S. households may experience food insecurity during the year. That's a large part of the reason why local churches often step up to ensure people have access to a hot meal. Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says Independence churches work together to provide several free meals each week.

Anyone in need of a good, home-cooked meal is welcome.

Daylight Saving Time ends this weekend.

It's that time again when most of the United States and the world returns to Standard Time. Daylight Saving Time came into existence for most of the world during the First World War in 1918 in order to allow more daylight in the morning in an effort to save fuel for the war effort. It was discontinued in the U.S. when the war ended, but was reinstated during World War 2.

Hawaii and most of Arizona along with the U.S. territories of Puerto Rico and Guam do not observe Daylight Saving Time and, therefore, will miss out on the extra hour of sleep this weekend.

Make sure to set your clocks back by one hour tomorrow night.

The City of Coffeyville seeks resident input on housing needs in the City.

The Coffeyville Community Development Department is offering residents the chance to voice their opinions by completing a Housing Assessment Tool. Input from the survey will help shape future housing programs, development, and investment in Coffeyville.

The survey can be found at this link.

The City of Neodesha is organizing a roundtable meeting for individuals who rent properties in the City.

The meeting will be conducted by the Neodesha Building Code Department for anyone who leases homes in Neodesha. The purpose of the meeting will be to discuss upcoming legislation in the City regarding property rentals currently under review by the City Commission. The City wants to hear input from landlords about the possible changes.

Anyone who rents out at least one property in Neodesha is asked to call the City and leave contact information in order to be notified of the details of the meeting. Call 620-325-2828, ext. 158 and leave your name, number, business address, and email address.

Two people are injured when a wrong-way driver hit a commercial vehicle on US-75 south of Bartlesville.

Investigators from the Oklahoma Highway Patrol say a 69-year-old Ochelata man was traveling the wrong way in the northbound lanes of US-75 near County Road West 3000 on Wednesday. The man's vehicle then collided with a truck making a U-turn in the median crossover just south of the intersection.

The 32-year-old truck driver from Anna, Texas, was also hurt. Both drivers were wearing seat belts.

The crash remains under investigation.

The Iola Public Library is one of many Carnegie libraries that will receive a $10,000 grant from the Carnegie Corporation.

The grants are part of the New York coproation's celebrationj of America's 250^th anniversary in 2026. The Iola Public Library is one of about 1,200 funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie that still serve communities nationwide. Carnegie libraries were public and academic libraries built with money donated by the Scottish-American industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in the late 19^th and early 20^th centuries.

Carnegie believed in the power of self-education and access to knowledge. As a young immigrant working in a Pennsylvania factory, he had benefited from a local library that allowed workers to borrow books. He saw libraries as tools for self-improvement and social progress. Carnegie spent roughly $55 million or over $1.5 billion in today’s dollars on library construction.

A Columbus boy is seriously injured after being thrown from the hood of a car on Thursday afternoon.

The incident occurred around 4:30 yesterday afternoon, when Columbus Police received reports of a injuries to a juvenile male located on the west side of the City. Officers arrived on the scene to find the boy lying unconscious on the ground.

The boy was taken via MedFlight helicopter to Mercy Hospital in Springfield where he remains in critical but stable condition.

Columbus Police say another juvenile was driving the car when the accident occurred. The incident remains under investigation.

Match Day 2025 is coming up for Coffeyville on Thursday, November 13^th. Coffeyville Area Community Foundation Executive Director Sam Kudrick says they will be setup in a different location this year for onsite donations.

Donations can also be made online at givematchgrow.com or mailed to CACF at P.O. Box 365, Coffeyville, KS 67337 but must be post marked by November 13^th. Kudrick says this year it's the most matching funds they have ever had.

This will be the 13^th year for Coffeyville's Match Day, with the total amount exceeding the previous year's total for the last six years. The total dollars of impact over the last 12 years is over 2.15 million.

 From trick-or-treating or carving pumpkins, even handling fireworks, Halloween can bring increased risk of injury, especially in children. But which states in the US are the worst to be injured in?

 A new study by the Whitley Law Firm, with data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, determined the best and worst states to be injured in.

 The study says patients in Maryland spent a median time of 251 minutes in the emergency services, which is the highest in the nation. Massachusetts and Rhode Island followed slightly behind with an average of 220 minutes. North Dakota spent the shortest time in the emergency department at 110 minutes.

 Oklahoma and Kansas had the 4^th and 5^th shortest wait times in the emergency room; an average wait the Sooner state was 117 minutes, while Kansans averaged a time of 122 minutes.

 To stay safe this Halloween, make sure costumes are visible with reflective tape or glow sticks, and wear flame-resistant materials. During trick-or-treating, stay in groups, stick to well-lit streets, walk on sidewalks, and only accept factory-sealed treats from the door after an adult inspects them. For drivers, remember to drive slowly and be alert for pedestrians. 

Nowata County Commissioners discuss the use of county vehicles at their most recent meeting.

District Attorney Will Drake says he recently received a letter about the private use of county vehicles.

The commission also discussed how taxes should be assessed to employees using county vehicles as a part of their non-wage compensation.

In other business, Nowata County commissioners also accepted bids for miscellaneous road paving materials and awarded a contract of rthe printing of ballots front he upcoming election.

Osage County Commissioners select a new phone system for the courthouse in Pawhuska.

As the transition period from the courthouse building to the annex continues, various decisions still need to be made. One such item the commissioners were weighing this week was deciding which phone system to use for the annex building. County Clerk Christina Talburt told commissioner that the current phone system is outdated and needs to be replaced. Talburt says the commission has some options.

Commissioners chose the voice-over I-P because it offered more services.

A charter bus carrying Missouri F-F-A students overturns in southwest Missouri.

The accident occurred just before 7:45 Wednesday morningon State Highway A near Phillipsburg, Missouri, northeast of Springfield. There were 50 students on the bus from Bolivar, Fair Play, and Dadeville who were on their way to the national FFA convention in Indianapolis. Ten students were treated for minor injuries. All of the students were transported to nearby Conway High School and were evetually sent home to their families. The accident happened as the group was little more than an hour into their trip.

The 75-year-old bus driver was also treated for minor injuries.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation announces various, intermittent lane closures on US-75 in northeast Oklahoma.

ODOT says US-75 will have intermittent lane closures between Bartlesville and Ramona today and tomorrow to allow for a road striping project. US-75 between between Apache Avenue in Ramona and 2400 Road near Bartlesville will see minor disruptions between 9am and 3pm for the rest of this week. The work should be completed Friday afternoon, weather permitting. Drivers can expect minor delays along the roadway and are asked to plan accordingly or to find an alternate route of travel.

A recent hearing before the U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans' Affairs reviews the veterans' disability benefits system.

The hearing was led by Kansas Senator Jerry Moran and featured testimony from vets, advocates, the V-A Inspector General and the Government Accountability Office. Moran says part of the reason for the hearings was a recent series of articles in the Washington Post on exploitation of disability services.

Moran says our government has the obligation to provide vets with the services they need.

Those appearing at the hearing discussed possible ways to improve the current veterans' disability benefits system.

Road work on Beech Street in Independence is expected to continue for the next few months due to a failed culvert.

Beech Street between Crescent and 13^th has been closed and will remain so for safety reasons after the both ends of the culvert began to show evidence of failure. The culvert in question has been in place for sixty years. The City has ordered construction material to replace the culvert and work is expected to begin during the first week of December with an expected completion date, weather permitting, at the end of January.

The Montgomery County Clerk's Office in Independence will be closed today for poll worker training in preparation for Tuesday's general election.

The office will also close at 1pm on Monday and all day Tuesday for the election. The County Election Office will remain open.

The Oklahoma Department of Transportation announces a change in a recent road work project on US-69 in northeast Oklahoma.

ODOT says the recent cool weather has caused a recent lane striping project on US-69 to change from nighttime hours to a daytime project. This will cause various, intermittent lane closures on US-69 between 5^th Avenue North in Miami and the US-69A junction near Commerce. Work will be going on today and tomorrow between 7am and 5pm. Drivers should be aware of minor delays along the roadway and are asked to plan accordingly or to find an alternate route of travel.
 

An Independence man is arrested is two separate trespassing incidents.

37-year-old John Ketchum was arrested and cited for criminal trespassing twice on Monday. The first incident occurred around 11:30 on Monday in the 100 block of North Penn Avenue. Police made contact with Ketchum again at 3pm at the G&W location on West Myrtle, where he was reported for being on the premises after previously being trespassed. Ketchum was taken to the Independence Police Department where he was once again cited for criminal trespass.

The Humanities Project from Coffeyville Community College welcomes singer-songwriter Daniel Boling to the Spencer Rounds Theater .

 

Boling has worked as a National Park Ranger and a Criminal Investigator for the U.S Bureau of Land Management before he began touring and playing music full-time at the age of 50. The Albuquerque, New Mexico, based folk musician uses his music to tell stories about a wide variety of characters, combining his singing with guitar, banjo, and harmonica. His  2016 album, THESE HOUSES, was considered for GRAMMY Nomination for Best Folk Album. He has been compared to John Denver, Pete Seger, and Woody Guthrie

Boling will perform Tuesday night in the Spencer Rounds Theater on the CCC campus.

The City of Coffeyville is teaming up with the Genesis Food Pantry for a November food drive.

During the month of November, citizens are asked to help those less fortunate by donating non-perishable food items such as peanut butter; canned meats, fruits, and vegatables; boxed meals; and baby food and formula to Genesis at 1312 West 8^th Street. There will also be a drop-off box at the south entrance of City Hall. Each items donated can make a big difference to a family in need.

Genesis provides food to an average of 400 households in Coffeyville per month, but that number nearly doubles during the holiday season—serving 800–1,000 households in November and December.

The final lead awareness workshop in Montgomery County is tonight in Cherryvale.

Over the past few weeks, workshops have taken place in Caney, Coffeyville and Independence, and both children and even adults with high blood-lead levels have been identified. The event tonight is free to attend and there will be door prizes, food and same-day screenings. Speakers will also share information about how to decrease lead exposure, which continues to impact southeast Kansas, not only from lead paint, but also from remnants of the area's lead mining and processing industry.

Tonight's event starts at 6 p.m. at the Cherryvale Community Center at 712 Liberty Street.

A Bartlesville woman is facing a felony child neglect charge.

According to the Bartlesville Police Department, 26-year-old Bailey Fesler left two minor children unattended in her vehicle in the Walmart parking lot. The vehicle was left unlocked and was running. One of the children left in the car was nine months old.

Fesler will appear in court again tomorrow at 9:00am and her bond is set at $15,000.

Wilson County is searching for poll workers for the upcoming November 4th election.

There are two different shifts on election day, with one from 6:30 a.m. to noon, and the other from noon to 8 p.m. Currently, the county is looking for one morning shift worker in Fredonia, three afternoon shifts in Fredonia, and one afternoon shift in Neodesha.

County Clerk Kayla Busch says the poll workers are an important part of the election process.

Those interested in serving as poll workers will not do so on a volunteer basis. Busch says there are multiple forms of compensation for those who help out.

For those interested in being poll workers in Wilson County, contact the Clerk's office at 620-378-2186.

The Coffeyville Fire Department responds to a morning call at a local business.

Units from CFD were called to the Dollar General location at 1101 Hall Street in Coffeyville for reports of a structure fire just before 8am Wednesday morning. Upon arrival, firefighters found that store employees and shoppers had alreay evacuated the building. There were no smoke or flames visible from outside the building.

No injuries have been reported.

Photo by Shea Neal

The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation is holding a public hearing on proposed changes in Title 800, the administrative rules that govern hunting, fishing and Wildlife Department operations in the State of Oklahoma.

This year’s proposals include setting rules for drone use in scouting or recovering wildlife, making temporary rules on waterfowl blinds, cervid imports, and nonresident permits permanent, and requiring nonresidents to check in online before accessing wildlife management areas.

Members of the public have the opportunity to voice their comments on this year's proposed rule changes at Thursday, November 6, at 7 p.m at at the John D. Groendyke Wildlife Conservation Building in Oklahoma City . Citizens do not have to attend in person to comment. Comments can also be submitted online or by regular mail.

Comments on any of the proposed rule changes may be submitted by: 

• Filling out the online public comment form by clicking “Leave Your Comments” at wildlifedepartment.com/public-meeting. The online comment period will close at 7 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 6, 2025.
• Writing your comments in a letter and mailing to Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation, Re: Public Comment, P.O. Box 53465, Oklahoma City, OK 73152. Letters must be postmarked by 4:30 p.m. Friday, Nov. 7, 2025.

All public comments are reviewed by the members of the Oklahoma Wildlife Conservation Commission. Discussion and possible action on these rule changes are planned during the regular Commission meeting Monday, Dec. 8, 2025.

The Cold Weather Rule will begin on Saturday, November 1 and remain in effect through March 31.

The Cold Weather Rule is designed to help Kansans who are behind on their utility payments avoid disconnection during the winter months. While the Rule is in effect, utility companies cannot disconnect a customer's service when the local temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees within the following 48-hour period. The agency that regulates public utilities in the state, the Kansas Corporation Commission, implemented the rule in 1983 to prevent utility companies from disconnecting a customer's natural gas, electric or water service during periods of extreme cold.

The Cold Weather Rule also requires utility companies to offer a 12-month payment plan to allow consumers to maintain or re-establish service. The Cold Weather Rule applies only to residential customers of utility companies under the KCC's jurisdiction, however many municipal utilities and cooperatives have similar winter weather policies.

Customers should contact their local utility company for more information.

Governor Laura Kelly joins a coalition of 22 attorneys general and two governors in filing a lawsuit against the United States Department of Agriculture and Secretary Brooke Rollins for unlawfully suspending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program or SNAP due to the ongoing federal government shutdown.

The USDA has told states that the ongoing federal government shutdown has led to insufficient funds to pay full SNAP benefits for November. The lawsuit claims that the agency has managed to fund other programs during the shutdown using emergency funds and accuses the Trump administration o0f deliberately choosing not to fund the SNAP program.

The suit also claims that the lack of funding will also put unnecessary strain on state and local governments and community organizations, as families increasingly rely on emergency services and local food pantries that are already struggling to fill a growing nutrition gap, and that it will affect school systems, including college and university communities, where food insecurity will stand in the way of educating students.

In Kansas, nearly 190,000 children, families, and seniors rely on SNAP each month to meet their needs. Governor Kelly has stated that she joined the lawsuit because the federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund the program and not to take food out of the mouths of Kansas children.

The City of Coffeyville discusses strategies to handle the issue of stray dogs.

At Tuesday's city commission meeting, a Coffeyville resident asked commissioners to do something about the problem of stray dogs running loose. City Manager Ben Brubaker says the City has been looking at ways to step up enforcement in an effort to solve the problem.

Brubaker says the City began placing more of an emphasis on animal control and code enforcement in August.

Among possible solutions is that the City is working on a partnership with a local group that would like to implement a formal animal fostering program. The City has received comments from residents on both sides of the stray animal issue, causing tempers to flare at times. Brubaker says the City is looking for solutions that will be workable for both sides, but that it will take time.

No official action was taken at the meeting.

Five people are injured in a Wilson County crash.

The accident occurred around 4:15 yesterday afternoon at the junction of US-400 and K-39 just north of Fredonia. A 2013 GMC Terrain driven by 28-year-old Michael Arnett of Humboldt was westbound on K-39 when it failed to stop and struck a 2020 Dodge Grand Caravan as it turned onto K-39 from US-400. One passenger in the Terrain 40-year-old Jenna White was seriously injured and taken to Fredonia Regional Medical Center.

Arnett along with 52-year-old Melissa Cain and 28-year-old Wendy Becannon, all of Humboldt, had possible injuries and were transported to the Fredonia hospital as a precaution. The driver of the other vehicle 61-year-old Tracie Gregg of Yates Center was taken to the Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center in Chanute, also as a precautionary measure.

Students at Labette County High School in Altamont hear from guest speakers about domestic violence.

In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, L-C-H-S students in freshman health classes heard from two guest speakers about how to recognize the signs of domestic abuse. Local mental health therapist Crystal Ellis and Victim's Assistance Coordinator for the Parsons Domestic Violence Unit Cyprus Jones spoke with students yesterday about recognizing red flags in relationships, seeing the link between bullying and unhealthy relationships, and identifiying the impact abuse can have on family systems. Students learned key statistics about domestic abuse, about the importance of breaking the stigma of silence around the issue, and about how to access resources for help.

The Parsons Police Department initiated the Domestic Violence Unit in January in an attempt to reduce the incidence of domestic abuse in the community.

Photo: Speaker addresses students at LCHS (courtesy Labette County High School)

The Montgomery County Clerk's Office is inviting local students to take part in a contest to design the county's official “I voted” sticker for the 2026 elections.

The contest is open to all students in Montgomery County and will feature separate catagories for elementary, middle, and high school students. All desigbns must be original work and should celebrate civic pride, voting, and community involvement while promonently featuring the phrase “I voted 2026.” Entries may be digital or hand-drawn. Submissions will be open November 1^st through November 30^th and should be submitted via e-mail, regular mail, or delivered in person to the Montgomery County Clerk's Office in Independence. Winners will be announced on December 16^th.

DESIGN REQUIREMENTS

1. Theme: Designs should celebrate civic pride, voting, and community involvement. Every sticker design must prominently feature the phrase:  “I Voted 2026”

2. Artwork Format:

   • Size: Will be resized to fit a 3-inch circle.

   • Medium: May be hand-drawn or digital.

   • Digital entries: Submit as JPEG or PNG, 300 dpi minimum.

   • Hand-drawn entries: Must be scanned or photographed clearly in good lighting or turned into the Elections’ Office.

3. Originality:

   • Must be the student’s own work.

   • No copyrighted or trademarked characters, images, or logos.

4. Submission Method:

   • Digital entries: Email to mgcoelections@mgcountyks.org

   • Physical entries: Mail or Deliver to Election’s Office.

PRIZES

Winning design of each category will be used on official “I Voted” stickers distributed in the 2026 Montgomery County elections and receive a certificate, plus:

• Elementary (Clerk’s Office Choice): 1^st place: privately donated $50 gift card; 2^nd place: privately donated $25 gift card.

• Middle School (Poll Workers’ Choice): 1^st place: privately donated $50 gift card; 2^nd place: privately donated $25 gift card.

• High School (Popularity Vote): 1^st place: privately donated $50 gift card; 2^nd place: privately donated $25 gift card.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

1. By entering, students grant the Montgomery County Clerk’s and Elections’ Office permission to reproduce, modify, and display their artwork for promotional or educational use.

2. Inappropriate or plagiarized designs will be disqualified.

3. Only one entry per student is allowed.

4. Participation is voluntary and free of charge.

5. Judging decisions are final.

CONTACT

For questions, contact:
Ami Standridge, County Clerk/Election Officer, Contest Coordinator
Email: mgcoelections@mgcountyks.org
Phone: 620-330-1200

A Caney man is facing felony charges after allegedly evading police and possessing methamphetamine.

44-year-old Robert Martin, Jr. was charged yesterday in Washington County, OK, with endangering others while eluding police and possession of a controlled dangerous substance. The charges stem from a September 5^th incident in which Bartlesville Police attempted a traffic stop on Martin's vehicle. Instead of complying, officers say Martin fled, leading police on a chase through Bartlesville traffic. Police later found the suspect vehicle with no one inside. During a search, authorities discovered just over 5 grams of methamphetamine.

Martin will appear in court again on December 5^th. He posted a $2,500 bond.

A wind advisory continues for the four-state area now through 1 this afternoon.

The advisory is in effect for eastern Kansas and Oklahoma as well as western counties along the state line in Missouri plus northwest Arkansas.

Winds will continue out of the northwest between 15 and 30 mph, and gusts of 45 to 50 mph are possible. Remain alert for for sudden wind gusts and use caution while driving high-profile vehicles.

In addition, sub-freezing temperatures are possible across portions of central and south-central Kansas tonight, which has prompted a freeze watch for Butler and Cowley Counties and areas to the north and west.

 A single vehicle accident this morning claims the life of a Caney man.

 According to the Montgomery County Sheriff's Department, deputies were dispatched to a rollover accident near the intersection of Highway 75 and County Road 3600, southwest of Independence. Mutual aid was provided by Independence Rural Fire, Independence Fire and EMS.

 Crews arrived to a 2024 Kia engulfed in flames. After the fire was extinguished, first responders discovered a deceased occupant inside the vehicle, later identified as 21-year-old Heath Ellis of Caney.

 Preliminary reports indicate that Ellis’s vehicle left the roadway for an unknown reason, overturned, and came to rest after striking a culvert.

 The incident remains under investigation by the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office.

The Coffeyville City Commission will meet this evening to discuss several resolutions regarding contracts and purchases for city utilities.

On tonight's agenda are resolutions to authorize revised matching funds for the Pfister Park Playground Equipment Project, to approve a construction contract with Goins Enterprises for the replacement of the water transmission lines at the Water Treatment Plant, and to authorize the purchase of a Color Digital Imaging System for Utility Billing.

Tonight's Coffeyville Commission meeting begins at 6:30 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 YouTube channel.

A new law requiring Oklahoma drivers to go hands-free goes into effect on Saturday.

Beginning on November 1, Oklhaoma drivers will be prohibited from using handheld cell phones and other electronic communication devices in active school and work zones. Violations carry the same penalties as the state’s texting-while-driving ban. The law also protects driver privacy by prohibiting law enforcement from accessing or downloading data from a phone without a warrant or probable cause. The law strengthens Oklahoma’s existing distracted driving rules by limiting handheld phone usage in areas where extra attention behind the wheel is critical. Drivers may still use hands-free features.

The law goes into effect on November 1.

A Great Bend man is arrested on charges of kidnapping and rape.

Authorities in Barton County, Kansas, have arrested James Swanson III in connection to an alleged rape that occurred over the weekend in a rural part of the county. Reports indicate that the victim in the case is a juvenile who is known to Swanson.

Swanson was taken into custody following a traffic stop on Saturday. He is being held on a $500,000 bond.

Next week in Independence, taking a test drive will help benefit the Caney Police.

Starting this Saturday, November 1^st through November 8^th, the Caney Police Department invites citizens to take a test drive at Romans Chevrolet in Independence. For every test drive on those dates, Romans will donate $25 to the Caney Police Department up to $500.

Those wishing to participate should mention the Caney Police Department and the Chevy First Responder Program.

Representatives from the Southeast Kansas Community Action Program or SEK-CAP ask Montgomery County for funding assistance.

SEK-CAP Community Engagement Coordinator Casey Brown and Director of Transportation Scott Christiansen appeared before the Montgomery County Commission yesterday to request financial support from the county. Christiansen says a budget shortfall has left the agency unable to continue to provide General Public Trnasportation services, called Mo-Goes.

Christiansen added that the agency is looking into grant options that would allow the service to continue on a 3-day-per-week basis for maybe another six weeks. Commissioner Robert Bever says he sees the value of the service, but that the county has also recently been forced to do some financial belt-tightening.

Montgomery County recently cut several million dollars from the county budget after a procedural error forced county to remain revenue neutral for 2026.

An Independence traffic stop leads to an arrest.

The incident occurred on Saturday night when an off-duty Kansas Highway Patrol trooper reported a possible drunk driver. As he watched the suspect vehicle, the trooper reportedly heard a gunshot. When officers from the Independence Police Department responded to the scene near 10^th and Laurel and pulled the vehicle over, they discovered the driver with a BAC of almost twice the legal limit. The driver had also allegedly discharged a firearm while attempting to unload a pistol.

The suspect was then taken to the Montgomery County Jail.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly is currently on her statewide “The People's Budget” listening tour.

For the remaining stops on ther tour, Kelly is also including a food drive. The governor  is encouraging Kansans attending the town hall events to bring non-perishable, non-glass food items to give back to local communities and support local food banks. The Kelly administration has partnered with the Kansas Food Bank and Harvesters: The Community Food Network in order to assist Kansans in need.

Food banks currently have the highest need for canned protein and infant formula. Other shelf stable items in need include canned fruits and vegetables, dried fruit and beans, whole grain pasta, and brown rice.

Kelly began her listening your in Salina on October 9^th. Her next stops will be on Wednesday in Hays and Garden City. She will make a stop in southeast Kansas on November 10^th in Pittsburg.

More information on attending the Governor's listening tour can be found here.

For more information on donating food, go here.

A Bartlesville man is facing a felony charge in Washington County after allegedly breaking into a local residence.

30-year-old Michael McGinnis was charged yesterday with first-degree burglary.

According to the Bartlesville Police Department, McGinnis allegedly entered the residence through a window looking for car keys.

McGinnis will appear in court again on Friday. His bond is set at $10,000.

A former Delaware County, Oklahoma, jailer is charged with sexual battery after an alleged affair with an inmate.

31-year-old Rebecca Chalakee was fired from her position with the Delaware County Sheriff's Office in Jay after an inmate in the jail accused Chalakee of conducted an intimate relationship with another inmate. Assistant Jail Adminnistrator 27-year-old Joseph Quigly is also charged in the case. Quigly is accused of attemtping to cover up the alleged relationship by lying to command stadd at the jail and to investigators. Quigly has also been relieved of his duties at the jail.

Both Chalakee and Quigly were arrested, charged and then released on bond.

 As it gets ready for another postseason run, USD 436 officials continue to seek information on Caney Memorial Stadium and its stability for continued use as a school facility.

 Superintendent Blake Vargas says numbers concerning repairs have started coming in, but businesses are not wanting to tackle the stadium's biggest concern, which is core sampling of the structure itself.

 Vargas says USD 436 continues to look at all aspects of the stadium, from the repair work to the stadium itself to the entire stadium grounds.

 While the stadium itself is almost 100 years old, parts that have been added in the 80's are not in compliance with ADA standards.

 Vargas says finding the structural integrity and estimated life left in the stadium is high priority for board members and school district officials, before a decision is made concerning a remodel, renovation or construction of a new stadium.

Two boys in Rogers County, Oklahoma, get a surprise for doing a good deed.

The two boys recently made a report to the Rogers County Sheriff’s Office of some found property they had discovered. The pair did the right thing and turned the property over to the authorities. The rightful owners of the property were located and happy to have the sentimental items returned.

Last week, deputies from the R-C-S-O surprised the two boys with a pizza at their home to thank them  for their good work.

Two more lead awareness workshops happen this week in Montgomery County.

Tonight, the Local Health Equity Action Team will host a free event in Independence at Memorial Hall starting at 6 p.m.

Organizer Linda Follett says it's especially important for children and mothers to get tested, which will be done the same day. She says there will also be some great door prizes.

The final workshop will take place this Thursday at the Cherryvale Community Center starting at 6 p.m.

The New Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Primary Care Clinic is officially open.

As of 1 p.m. today, the $7.6 million project opened to patients. CRMC Chief Operating Officer Lisa Kuehn says the project has been completely funded by grants and donations, and has been several years in the making.

The new facility includes primary care, women's health and business and industry. Kuehn says the new clinic is much more accessible.

In addition to being better for patients, Kuehn says the new clinic should be just as beneficial to providers.

While appointments going forward will now take place in the new facility, Kuehn says a few finishing touches still need to be completed. An upcoming open house will allow the public to take a look at the new space in the near future.

Here is a list of Halloween events in the area this week:

Friday, October 31

Trunk or Treat, FKHS Key Club, 1110 W. 8th, Coffeyville, 3pm-6pm

Asbury Village, 3800 Asbury Drive, Coffeyville, 5pm-7pm

Light and Life Night, Bible Baptist Church, Coffeyville, 6:30pm

Harvest Party, Grace Fellowship church, Coffeyville, 5:30pm-7:30pm

Trinity Methodist Church, 1001 W 8th St, Coffeyville, 5 pm

Trunk or Treat, Coffeyville Masonic Lodge, 5:30-7:30 pm

South Coffeyville Fire Department, 418 Willow, 5-8 pm

Dearing Fire Department, 301 S Independence Ave, 6 pm

Trunk or Treat, downtown Independence, 6pm-7pm

Zion Lutheran Church 10th St. Parking lot, Indep., 5:30 pm-6:30 pm

Caney Police Department, 100 w 4th

Cherryvale Community Center, 6pm-9pm

Christian Church, Elk City, 5:30pm to 7pm

Hot dog roast, Moline Park, 5:30 pm

Trunk or Treat, Downtown Fredonia Square, 6 pm

Trunk or Treat, Downtown Howard on Wabash, 5:30 to 6:30 p.m.

Pumpkin Parade, Chetopa, 5:30pm

Trunk or Treat, Lenapah Park, 5 to 7 pm

Saturday, November 1

Elk Falls trunk or treat and outdoor movie fundraiser, 5:30 pm

To have your event added to this list, contact KGGF at news@kggfradio.com or call 620-251-3800

The Columbus Fire Department receives a grant for some much needed equipment.

Columbus Fire recently applied for and received an $8,500 grant that allowed them to purchase a new set of ResQ Jacks for Vehicle Stabilization.  These are specialized rescue struts and jacks used by emergency responders to stabilize vehicles during rescue operations. They are designed to secure and lift vehicles that are on their side, upside down, or in other unstable positions, preventing them from shifting further and ensuring the safety of rescuers and victims. 

Members of the Columbus rescue crews were able to receive hands-on training on the new equipment to allow them to better serve the community.

An Oklahoma District Attorney will seek the death penalty against two of the five suspects in the deaths of two Kansas women in 2024.

51-year-old Cole Earl Twombly and 44-year-old Tad Bert Cullum will face the possibly of the death penalty for their roles in deaths of Veronica Butler and Jilian Kelley in Texas County, Oklahoma. Court records show that District Attorney George Leach III will seek the death penalty against the two men on the grounds that the murders of Butler and Kelley were especially heinous, atrocious, or cruel and that the two could be a continued threat to society. They are set for arraignment on November 5th.

The victims were traveling together from their homes in Hugoton, Kansas, on March 30, 2024, to pick up Butler’s children when they went missing. Their bodies were discovered in a rural area of the Oklahoma panhandle two weeks later. Another suspect Tifany Adams entered a no contest plea last week to two counts of first-degree murder in the case. She is scheduled for sentencing on January 28th.

Two others Paul Grice and Cora Twombly are also charged in the case.

Firefighters from Wilson County Rural Fire respond to reports of two sheds on fire.

The call came in just after 1pm on Friday afternoon. Units responded to the Oak Manor area and upon arrival on the scene, discovered two sheds fully engulfed in flames. Both sheds had already collapsed by the time emergency crews arrived and firefighters worked to contain and extinguish the blaze. They remained on the scene until all of the hot spots had cooled. No individuals were found on the scene and no injuries were reported.

The Wilson County Sheriff's Office is investigating the cause of the fire and investigators are looking into a possible source of ignition.

One person is injured in a weekend accident in Cherokee County.

65-year-old Mark Barnes of Weir sustained minor injuries on Friday morning when his 2006 GMC Sierra 250 pick up was struck by another vehicle on US-400 about three miles east of the City of Cherokee. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the other driver 52-year-old Larry Hammer of Independence failed to yield at a stop sign on Northeast 30th Road and collided with Barnes’ truck. Hammer was uninjured in the crash.

Another Neewollah is in the books with thousands of spectators packing downtown Independence for the Grand Parade on Saturday morning.

The Independence High School marching band led the Grand Parade of 126 entries, although some did drop out due to the weather. The marching band festival also went on as planned though it moved from Riverside Park to Independence High School because of the near constant rain. Both Independence and Field Kindley bands took home 1 ratings for their field shows, with Field Kindley also taking home honors for Outstanding Percussion, Outstanding Color Guard, and Best in Class for their division.

Bands from Caney, Neodesha, Fort Scott, Chanute, and Labette County High Schools also competed, earning 2 ratings, while Cherryvale received a 2 rating for the parade.

A woman is seriously injured after being struck by a car while crossing a street in Independence.

36-year-old Katrina Hancock of Independence was crossing South 10^th Street at the intersection with Walnut Street around 10:45 Sunday morning. While in the street, she was struck by a 2002 Toyota Avalon driven by 82-year-old Harold Robinson, also of Independence.

Hancock was taken to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center for treatment. Robinson was uninjured.

Starting on November 1st, DUI laws in Oklahoma will get tougher.

Changes to the law include the possibility of a felony charge even for first-time offenders. Conditions that will make the offense a felony include having a BAC of .15 or higher, attempts to evade law enforcement, having a child in the vehicle at the time of the offense, and driving 20 mph or more over the posted speed limit. The rule also applies to offenders who engage in reckless driving such as crossing the center line, unsafe passing, driving on the wrong side of the road, and failure to maintain a lane. It also includes any suspected DUI driver who is involved in a crash that cause property damage above a certain threshold, injury, or death.

Law enforcement agencies say the goal of the changes to the law is deterrence.

U.S. Representative Derek Schmidt is weighing in on President Trump's recent remarks on importing more beef from other countries.

Schmidt recently signed a letter with other lawmakers against importing more Argentinean beef in an attempt to lower prices for consumers. While nothing has been decided on the federal level, the Trump administration continues to weigh options with Argentina and now Mexico on increasing imports despite pushback from domestic producers. While prices have been high, Schmidt says he thinks the markets will eventually work themselves out.

Schmidt says there are a number of factors that led to this situation.

Schmidt spoke during his monthly interview on KGGF, which airs live every 4^th Friday at 7:40. The full interview is available HERE.

The Parsons Police Department recognizes four community members for their committment to volunteer work.

Abigail Easley, John Daley, John Ball, and Tom Davis were honored for organizing the 2025 Guardians of the Greens Charity Golf Tournament. Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks says the event would not be possible without them.

Spinks says the money raised from the event goes into the Parsons Police Legacy Fund.  Spinks says the Legacy Fund's success is a direct result of the hard work and civic pride these individuals embody.

The Montgomery County Commission will meet today and hear from a representative of the Southeast Kansas Community Action Program or SEK-CAP.

SEK-CAP’s Community Engagement Coordinator Casey Brown will appear before the commission to address the agency’s recent announcement that it will no longer be able to provide General Public Transportation Services in Montgomery County due to a lack of sufficient local financial support. Commissioners are also expected to approve the County Economic Development Incentive Policy.

In other business, the commission will review four applications for Neighborhood Revitalization and hear an update on current projects from Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins. There will also be an executive session to discuss non-elected personnel.

Today’s meeting begins at 9am in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The public is invited to attend in person or to view the meeting online via the County’s website.

A Bartlesville woman is facing a felony charge after allegedly spitting at a police officer.

44-year-old Lisa Porta was charged with assault and battery on a police officer. She also faces a misdemeanor charge of injury to a vehicle. According to the Bartlesville Police Department, Porta was seen stuffing mail into the tailpipe of someone’s car. She also allegedly broke the driver’s side mirror, dented the rear passenger side of the car and broke a window pane in the victim’s garage.

According to BPD, about 30 minutes after authorities investigated Porta’s actions, they responded to her residence. Porta was uncooperative, and after a brief struggle, officers were able to detain her. According to BPD, officers asked to search Porta before placing her in a patrol unit and she spit in the officer’s face. Porta was convicted in September of threatening to perform an act of violence. She will appear in court again on October 31^st at 9:00am and her bond is set at $7,500.

Three Bartlesville juveniles are taken into custody following an undercover operation for stolen property.

The Bartlesville Police Department took three juvenile suspects into custody after an undercover operation led to the recovery of wheels and tires valued at several thousand dollars that had been stolen from a local dealership earlier in the week. Investigators received a tip and located the stolen items listed for sale online. They arranged a “buy- bust” operation to recover the property.

An undercover officer met with the suspects in the Lowe’s parking lot and confirmed the items matched the stolen wheels and tires. Uniformed officers then moved in and took the suspects into custody without incident. The investigation remains ongoing. 

Parade aficionados will find lots to be happy about this weekend in Independence.

As Neewollah week reaaches its conclusion, there will be lots of parades to enjoy. The Doo Dah Parade was last night and this afternoon is the Kiddie Parade at 4pm. The parades will happen rain or shine. Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says she's learned from past experience not to cancel.

Wilson says the grand parade begins tomorrow at 11am.

Free bandstand acts will begin tonight at 5 and tomorrow at 1. The carnival midway will beopen today from 3 to 10pm and tomorrow from 10am to 10pm. It all happens in downtown Independence.

A train derails near Joplin.

The accident happened sometime yesterday evening at the Canadian-Pacific-Kansas City railroad crossing over Turkey Creek in Joplin. The train was hauling multiple cars and reports indicate that one left the tracks and fell into ravine below. Joplin Fire responded to the scene along with crews from C-P-K-C.

No injuries have been reported.

Three juvenile suspects are in custody following an investigation into a Bartlesville theft.

Bartlesville Police say the case involves the recent theft of wheels and tires from a Bartlesville car dealership. Acting on a tip, investigators located an online advertisement for some of the merchandise. Investigators then arranged a "buy-bust" operation to recover the property. An undercover deputy met with the suspects and was able to confirm the items matched the stolen property. The suspects were then arrested and taken into custody without incident. The merchandise was valued at several thousand dollars.

Anyone with information on the case is asked to call the Bartlesville Police Department at 918-338-4001. The investigation remains ongoing.

The City of Independence announces an agreement with a new landfill service.

At this week's city commission meeting, commissioners approved an agreement with Green Environmental Services to send garbage to the company's new waste transfer station near Cherryvale. City Engineer John Garris says Green's site is currently under construction and won't be ready until spring.

The move will not cause any changes to current trash pickup in the city. This move, in addition to increased demand for bulky item pickups and roll-off dumpster services and more resident disposals at the City Sanitation Yard mean a rate increase for trash pick up is likely in the future. Independence has not yet made any changes to trash collection rates.

The Neodesha Fire Department responds to a false alarm at Heller Elementary School.

The incident occurred yesterday morning when Neodesha Fire received reports of a fire alarm at Heller. Units responded to the scene and students and staff were evacuated form the building. It was then discovered that a student had pulled the alarm and that there was no fire. All emergency procedures were followed by the school and, despite the fact that there was no danger, evacuation efforts are reported to have worked well.

Staff and students were given the all-clear and allowed back in the building. There were no injuries.

Two employees at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center are honored for excellence in their work.

Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Jessica Linaweaver has been awarded the DAISY Award for her efforts to provide compassionate, personalized care to patients. The DAISY Award is an international recognition program that celebrates the extraordinary compassion and skill nurses demonstrate every day.

Also recognized is Peggy Williamson, who works in the hopital's Enviromental Services Department. Williamson has earned the BEE Award for providing high quality service. The BEE Award is a CRMC recognition program that celebrates exceptional associates who demonstrate service excellence each and every day.

Both women have been officially recognized for their efforts by CRMC.

Photo: Jessica Linaweaver (left), Peggy Williamson (right)

An Oklahoma Multi-County Grand Jury indicts an Oklahoma woman on a charge of voting twice in the 2024 general election.

Authorities have accused 31-year-old Victoria Vincenza Dill of voting in-person in Oklahoma City and also submitting an absentee ballot in Payne County on November 5, 2024. The general election ballot on that day included president and vice president, state leaders like corporation commissioner, U.S. representatives, state senators and representatives, judges and state questions. Dill has been indicted on one felony county of voting illegally. If convicted, she could face up to five years in prison and a $50,000 fine.

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond stated that his office intends to continue to investigate voter fraud because the integrity of elections is fundamental. He added that every illegal votes cancels out a legitimate voter's voice and undermines public confidence in elections.

The City of Neodesha continues to look for answers to their EMS issues.

At this week's Neodesha City Commission meeting, commissioners heard a presentation from Labette Health regarding a mutual aid agreement between the City and the health care organization. Labette Health CEO Brian Williams made the presentation and says it's all about cooperation.

Commissioners seemed amenable to the proposal, but Commissioner Duane Banzet says the decision may come down to an issue of taxes and approval from the Wilson County Commission.

A decision on the agreement may be made at the November 12^th commission meeting.

The City of Chetopa is urging residents to continue to conserve water.

According to the City, due to unforeseen delays, the water tower maintenance and repair project is not expected to be finished until late next week.

During this time, residents are asked to conserve water and avoid unnecessary usage to help maintain adequate water levels and pressure throughout the system. No bulk water sales or hydrant usage will be permitted, except in the case of fire department emergencies.

The Spook Trail at Cedar Bluff Camp is canceled this weekend due to rain.

The Night of Fright typically takes place over two weekends. Organizer Chuck McFate says that they plan to be open next weekend from dusk until 11 p.m. with a one-mile ride-through event and concessions. That will be Friday and Saturday, October 31^st and November 1^st.

National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is coming up tomorrow.

The Coffeyville Police Department will once again partner with the Drug Enforcement Administration in the free community event that allows anyone to dispose of old and unneeded medications safely and anonymously.

This Saturday, medications can be brought to the Coffeyville Police Department at 1206 W. 11^th Street on the east side of the building to be disposed of between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.

If you can't make it this weekend, a disposal box is available in the vestibule of the police department as well.

A flash flood watch is in place today for northeast Oklahoma as there is at least a 15% chance of excessive rainfall today for much of the area.

The flood watch will be in place today from 7 a.m. through 7 p.m. for Kay, Osage, Washington and Nowata Counties and areas to the south. Between 1 and 2 inches of rain are possible along the Kansas-Oklahoma line, with locally higher amounts possible to the south towards Tulsa.

Rain chances will continue now through early next week. There may be a bit of a lull in the rain during the late afternoon and early evening today, with chances picking back up through about noon tomorrow for Neewollah activities in Independence.

The community of Coyville in Wilson County is planning a block party tomorrow.

This Saturday from 4 to 8 p.m., activities will include pickleball, yard games, face and pumpkin painting as well as a hayrack ride through the Coyville Cemetery plus s'mores and hot dogs.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and wear a Halloween costume for a chance to win prizes. The event will happen on Decatur Road in Coyville.

Independence Fire and EMS respond to a small fire at a business on North 24^th Street.

The call came in around 9pm last night. Crews were dispatched to 120 North 24^th Street to Borovetz Liquor. The small fire was quickly extinguished. The owner of the store was in the building at the time of the incident and told firefighters that a customer had entered the store and stated, “Hey, your sign in on fire.” The owner stated that he had just purchased the business and had plans to replce the sign sometime next year. There was no damage to the structure and no injuries were reported.

Courtesy Independence Fire/EMS

Authorities in Vernon County, Missouri, are offering a reward for information in the case of several cattle that were recently found shot to death near Nevada.

The Vernon County Sheriff's Office is offering a $10,000 dollar reward for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for shooting the cattle. Investigators believe the crime was committed using a small caliber weapon. Anyone who was in the area of the killing that happened near the City of Walker along US-54 is asked to contact the Vernon County Sheriff's Office at 417-667-6042

Tempers continue to flare as accusations fly in Sedan.

At this week's Sedan City Council meeting, a Sedan citizen spoke during the public comment period about recent accusations against council member Janice Fine. Some in the community have accused Fine of interfering in a 2023 traffic stop that involved her grandson. Fine has stated that her only involvement in the stop was to support her grandson. However, the citizen says Fine should resign her seat.

Fine is currently running for re-election to the Sedan City Council. One of her opponents in the election is Wellington Butler, who was also at this week's meeting. Butler says he thinks the council woman's behavior sets a bad example.

Both Fine and Butler will appear on the November 4^th general election ballot along with candidates Adam Clark, Jonathan Martin, Denise Hugenot, Crystal Wade, and Leroy Moreland for the 3 seat on the Sedan City Council.

Full interviews with both Janice Fine and Wellington Butler can be heard on the KGGF website.

Photo (left to right): Janice Fine, Adam Clark, Kathy Miller, Angela Evans

The Independence High School band was one of the first acts on the bandstand as Neewollah festivities got into full swing yesterday. Residents and visitors alike packed Penn Avenue to sample their favorites Neewollah food from food trucks and to let the kids enjoy some free fun in the inflatables. The carnival midway also opened last night. The streets were packed with festival goers for the first night of downtown activities.

The fun continues tonight with the Doodah Parade at 6pm. The Doodah Parade is the adult only event of Neewollah. It offers those who are still kids at heart a chance to celebrate in their own special way. King and Queen Doo Dah Barry and Lori Wesselowski will preside over the parade of rowdies that is liberally sprinkled with a variety of adults in costume. Prizes will be awarded for Best Individual and Best Group costumes. Those who want to take part in the costume contest should meet at 5:15 in front of Memorial Hall for judging.

Bandstand musical acts begin at 6:30 and the carnival midway will be open from 5 to 10pm.

The Coffeyville Community College Marketing Department earns a national award for its efforts in promoting the school.

CCC won two awards from the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations. The marketing team earned a Gold Medallion Award in the Wild Card category for its Athletic Social Media Templates and a Bronze Medallion Award in the Novelty category for the 100-Year Celebration Medallion.

The Athletic Social Media Templates were designed by Candace Morris and provide CCC athletic teams with easy-to-use, branded layouts for social media. The templates help ensure a cohesive and professional look across all Red Raven platforms. The 100-Year Celebration Medallion was created by Bookstore Manager Aaron Phillips and the CCC 100-Year Committee who worked to design and produce the commemorative piece in honor of the college’s centennial.

The awards were presented at the 2025 National Council for Marketing and Public Relations District 5 Conference, held October on 8^th through 10^th in Kansas City. The annual event brings together marketing professionals from community colleges across Iowa, Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota to celebrate excellence in higher education marketing.

The City of Independence reaches an agreement with USD 446 over the use of the school district of the baseball and softball fields at the Central Park Sports Complex.

The agreement was approved at last night's City Commission meeting and comes after several months of negotiations between the two groups. The 10-year lease will give the district priority use of the fields in exchange for $70,000 a year. City Manager Kelly Passauer says the agreement also contains a transfer of land from the district to the city.

Commissioner Tim Emert says a lot of effort went into finding an agreement that would satisfy both parties.

The agreement gives school baseball and softball teams priority use of the facilities. It goes into effect on January 1.

The Parsons Police Department arrests two suspects during an investigation that results in the seizure of over a pound of methamphetamine.

55-year-old Frederick Lewis and 45-year-old Leigh Stringfellow taken into custody on Tuesday following an investigation into the distribution of methamphetamine. Based on information obtained during the initial investigation, police were able to obtain a search warrant for a Parsons residence located in the 2400 block of Grand Avenue, as well as for vehicles associated with Lewis and his known associates.

During the execution of the warrant, officers received information that Lewis was traveling near the target residence. Officers initiated a traffic stop, at which time a search of the vehicle revealed over one pound of methamphetamine. The search of the residence also resulted in the discovery of an additional 12 grams of methamphetamine, along with marijuana, drug paraphernalia and other items consistent with narcotics distribution.

Lewis and Stringfellow were both arrested on suspicion of possession and distribution of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

A child with elevated blood-lead levels is identified at this week's lead awareness workshop in Caney. Organizer Dorothy Shaffer with the Caney Valley Agape Network says almost 30 people were tested on Tuesday.

Shaffer says a representative from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment says that more testing is needed in Montgomery County.

The Montgomery County Local Health Equity Action Team is hosting another event today in Coffeyville with lots of door prizes, information on reducing lead exposure, gardening information, and same-day testing. It all starts at 6 p.m. at the Coffeyville Rec Center in Walter Johnson Park. Additional workshops will be held next Tuesday in Independence at Memorial Hall and next Thursday at the Cherryvale Community Center.

***** UPDATE *****

According to the Independence Chamber of Commerce, the segment air TONIGHT, Tuesday, Oct 28th starting at 5:30 p.m.

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

Neewollah will soon be featured on CBS News.

Last weekend, a TV crew visited town during the Chili Cook-off and interviewed local historian Ken Brown and some of the past Generalissimos.

Wilson says the producers found out about the event from a popular TV show that featured Independence a few years ago.

Wilson says she's excited to see Independence featured on the national stage, as this is more about just showcasing an annual event.

The segment is expected to air during the CBS Evening News either tomorrow or Friday. Stay tuned for updates as they become available.

The Neodesha City Commission will meet today and discuss the City's ongoing issues with Ems services.

As part of that discussion, commissioners will hear a presentation from Labette Health with a discussion of options for future service to follow. Also on the agenda is the approval of the use of the cemetery for the annual cemetery tours, landlord licensing, and a registry for vacant housing.

Today's meeting begins at 4pm in the Commission Room at City Hall in Neodesha. The meeting is open to the public.

The Independence City Commission will meet today on a special day due to Neewollah.

At tonight's meeting, commissioners will consider the 10-year lease agreement with USD 446 regarding the district's use of the Central Park Sports Complex. The agreement recently approved by the USD 446 School Board would charge the district $70,000 annually and include the transfer of two tracts of district property to the City of Independence.

Also on tonight's agenda is a contract with Green Environmental Recycling and Disposal for landfill services and the approval of a bid award for the purchase of two new police cars.

Tonight's meeting begins at 5:30 in the Commission Room at City Hall in Independence. The public is invited to attend or to watch the meeting online via the City's website.

The Parsons City Commission discusses the location of vape shops in the City.

At this week's meeting, a citizen raised the issue of vape shops being located very close to several Parsons schools and asked if there was a way the city could prevent that from happening. City Manager Jeff Cantrell says this isn't the first time the issue has come up.

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks says vape shops have recently come under scrutiny from the state.

Since the issue was raised as a public comment, no action was taken.

A Missouri man is seriously injured in a crash with an emergency vehicle.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the emergency vehicle driven by 23-year-old Valeria Green of Miami, OK, was northbound traveling through the intersection at 7^th and Main Streets in Galena just before 4pm yesterday. The second vehicle – a 2004 Kia Sorento driven by 60-year-old James Carter of Goodman, Missouri – was eastbound with a green light and was struck by the emergency vehicle. Carter's vehicle then overturned and struck a third vehicle.

Carter was taken to Freeman Hospital in Joplin for treatment for serious injuries. Green suffered minor injuries in the accident.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Madison public water supply systems located in Greenwood County.

Customers should boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water instead. Dispose of ice cubes from trays and automatic ice makers. If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.

 Water used for bathing does not need to be boiled, but supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested.

KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure due to a water line break.

 The advisory will remain in effect until further notice.

An Independence man earns a state award for his work in environmental health.

County Director of Environmental Health and Zoning Matt Debo has been named the 2025 Sanitarian of the Year by the Kansas Environmental Health Association. The prestigious award recognizes individuals who make a positive impact within their organization and the KEHA community. Debo was also recently appointed as Vice-President of the KEHA Board.

A County Road just north of Cherryvale will be closed starting today to allow for repairs to a railroad crossing.

County Road 6000 will be closed starting today from US-169 to County Road 5900 (Montgomery/Labette County line). Drivers are asked to find an alternate route until the repairs are complete and the road is reopened. The repairs are expected to take about a week.

Drivers in the Caney area can expect some good news soon.

The Kansas Department of Transportation says the Cheyenne River bridge just north of the US-166/-US-75 junction near Caney is due to reopen to two lanes of traffic soon. The bridge has been under construction since October 2024 as crews replaced the existing structure. One lane of the bridge has remained open during the replacement project. The $3.8 million project was constructed by Bridges, Inc, of Newton.

Some water customers in Coffeyville will see a disruption in service today.

The City of Coffeyville will be installing a new water valve and a contractor will be tying in a new water main on North Buckeye. The work will cause water to be shut off in the North Buckeye area between 1^st Street and Stark Avenue. Customers in the area will be without water from 8am to 3pm today.

There are some changes this year to street closures in downtown Independence due to Neewollah.

For the remainder of the week in Independence, the 100, 200, and 300 blocks of Penn Avenue will be closed. In past, the downtown area has remained open for a limited time once the food trucks opened, but safety concerns have prompted the City to close the area to all traffic through Saturday. The east alley in the 100 block of north Penn will temporarily become one-way, with traffic flowing north from Main to Myrtle to allow for continued access to the Community National Bank drive-thru.

The 84^th Queen Neelah is crowned in Indenpendence.

Coronation emcee Brian Hight made the announcement during last night's ceremony.

Madelin Beshear was crowned Queen Neelah 2025 and Katherine West was selected as 1^st runner-up while Katelyn Spencer took 2^nd runner-up. Nine other contestants also took home honors. Other winners last night include:

Miss Originality - Ashley Finnell

Miss Interview - Mossie O'Brien

Miss Congeniality - Addisyn Hodge

Miss Photogenic - Michelle Carranco

Miss Fashion - Brynlee Taylor

Miss Beauty - Elizabeth Perry

Miss Personality - Zoe Hallet

Miss Poise - Aundrea Williams

Miss Talent - Lenae Ivie

Neewollah festivities get into full swing in downtown Independence as the food trucks open at 11am. Live performances on the bandstand begin at 4:45 and the carnival midway opens tonight at 5.

The Columbus City Hall will be closed for the rest of the week due to what city officials call a significant data loss incident.

Officials have not stated the specific cause of the incident but emphasized that the loss was not due to hacking or foul play and that no customer information was compromised. The city is asking that residents not provide payment on any utility bills until the issue can be resolved and city computer systems are returned to full functionality.

Other city operations such as public works, garbage collection, police, fire, and code enforcement activities will continue as normal.

City offices are scheduled to reopen on Monday, but officials say future closures may be necessary based on the volume of work required to restore the computer systems.

An Arcadia woman is injured in a two-vehicle accident in Bourbon County.

79-year-old Patricia Wright-Morris suffered serious injuries yesterday afternoon when the 2024 Chevy Malibu was struck broadside by another vehicle. Wright-Morris was westbound of Calvary Road near the intersection with US-69 or about 8 miles south of Fort Scott when she failed to yield to traffic on the highway. Her vehicle was struck in the driver's side quarter panel. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg. No one in the other vehicle was injured.

A Coffeyville baby is competing in the Baby of the Year contest.

Avianna McManaman is the daughter of Jon McManaman and Brenda Lopeman, who own Nutritionville in Coffeyville. She is participating in the Baby of the Year contest, which is powered by Colossal and is a fundraiser for Baby2Baby. Baby's participating in this contest are broken into groups, with the baby receiving the most votes in each group moving on. Avianna is currently first in her group. Voters receive one free vote each day and more votes can be made with donations to Baby2Baby. The organization is a national nonprofit that provides basic essentials to over one million children in need each year.

Votes can be placed online at babyoftheyear.org.  Voting for group finalists ends Thursday at 9:00pm. The winning baby will receive an advertorial in Variety magazine and $25,000.

Coffeyville Public School's Child Nutrition receives the Kansans Can Best Practice – Serve Local Foods Award.

Director of Child Nutrition Casey Worden says the award is for their shift toward making more meals from scratch and embracing locally-grown produce.  The department received a grant for a hydroponic garden and to date have harvested over 1,000 pounds of leafy greens. Worden says what they can't grow they try to buy as local as possible.

Worden says she couldn't have made this change without the help of her staff.  Coffeyville's Child Nutrition Department received the award during the Kansas State Board of Education’s meeting on October 14^th, in Topeka.

A Dodge City man is facing charges of first-degree murder in the weekend killing of his wife.

Officers from the Dodge City Police Department were called to the scene just before 6am yesterday morning after reports of shots fired. Upon arrival, officers say they were approached by a 31-year-old man who told them he had just shot his wife. Further investigation revealed a 31-year-old female suffering from gunshots wounds. Officers attempted life-saving measures, but the woman died at the scene.

The male suspect was taken to the Ford County Jail and booked on charges of first-degree murder and criminal discharge of a firearm.

A 24-year-old man is dead following an ATV accident in southwest Missouri.

The Missouri State Highway Patrol says the accident occurred just after 5am on Saturday. The man was riding southbound on Farm Road 1245 about 20 miles northwest of Branson. The ATV traveled off the right side of the road and overturned, ejecting the driver. The victim was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Authorities have not yet released the man's name.

Montgomery County signs an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation for reimbursement from the agency regarding a detour for an upcoming project.

County Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins says the project is expected to cause an increase on traffic on County Roads 5700, 4400, and 5500.

The planned detour would re-route traffic through Parsons causing local traffic to use county roads. Beurskins says the increase in cars will cause added wear and tear on those roads.

The agreement will cover additional maintenance expenditures by the county up to $148,000. The project is set to begin in the coming months and will close US-160 to through traffic for about 13 months.

Neewollah activities continue tonight in Independence with the crowning of the 84^th Queen Neelah.

Twenty-three young women will be vying for the title of Queen Neelah tonight at Memorial Hall. Tonight's event marks the culmination of the process that includes interviews with judges and the attendance at several social functions by candidates. Six candidates were selected from last night's talent competition to perform their talents at this evening's show. Performing tonight will be Brynlee Taylor, Lenae Ivie, Madison Morrow, Audrey Kaiser, Michelle Carranco, and Zoe Hallet.

In addition to the crowning of Queen Neelah, awards will also be given in other categories including Miss Talent, Miss Originality, Miss Beauty, Miss Interview, Miss Photogenic, Miss Fashion, Miss Poise, and Miss Personality.

Tonight's coronation begins at 7pm at Memorial Hall in Independence.

The Humanities Project from Coffeyville Community College welcomes bluegrass musician Phil Lancaster to the Spencer Rounds Theater .
 

Lancaster is a guitarist, banjo player, and visual artist whose performaces blend music and visual storytelling inspired by his time spent living in France. Lancaster has been strongly influenced by European modern and conceptual art, from Cubism to Surrealism. He will perform original music while presenting a visual art installation of wood sculptures, drawings, and paintings.

Lancaster will perform tonight at 6:30 in the Spencer Rounds Theater on the CCC campus. Admission is free.

Independence Community College begins its search for a new president.

At last night's Board of Trustees meeting, ICC President Dr. Jonathan Sadhoo announced his resignation. Sadhoo joined ICC in 2019 as Vice President for Administration & Finance and Chief Financial Officer. He later served as Interim President beginning in May 2024 and was officially appointed President last March.

With Sadhoo's departure, current Vice President for Academic Affairs Taylor Crawshaw was named as interim president, effective December 1.

The Board of Trustees announced it will begin a nationwide search for a new president in the coming weeks.

The first of four lead awareness workshops in Montgomery County is coming up tonight in Caney.

The events are being put together by the Montgomery County Local Health Equity Action Team. Organizer Linda Follett says this is an important topic, especially given southeast Kansas' history of lead smelting.

Lead can also be found in older homes with certain types of paint. Follett these topics and ways to prevent exposure will be discussed. She says there will also be free, same-day lead screening tests, plus guest speakers, food, books and door prizes.

The workshop starts tonight at 6 p.m. at the Caney Rec center at 403 E First St. Other workshops will be held at the the Coffeyville Rec this Thursday at 6, Independence Memorial Hall next Tuesday and the Cherryvale Community Center next Thursday.

The Parsons Police Department arrests a Parsons man following a traffic stop leading to the discovery of suspected narcotics in his vehicle.

An officer conducted a traffic stop in the 1500 block of Appleton Avenue after observing a red Chevrolet HHR with a defective headlight. The driver was identified as John Edward Logan. While speaking with Logan, the officer noted erratic behavior and statements that raised suspicion. After confirming his driver's license and registration, the officer requested assistance from the Labette County Sheriff's Office.

A deputy and K9 Benny responded to the scene. K9 Benny conducted a free-air sniff around the vehicle and alerted to the presence of narcotics. Officers then conducted a probable-cause search of the vehicle and discovered a small baggie containing a white crystalline substance, a straw commonly used for drug ingestion and a large decorative sword near the center console.

The suspected narcotic tested positive for methamphetamine using field test kits. Logan was placed under arrest and transported to the Parsons Police Department, where he refused field sobriety testing and a voluntary blood draw. Officers obtained a search warrant for a blood sample, which was collected by Labette EMS personnel. All evidence was processed and secured by the Parsons Police Department.

The Parsons Police Department arrests a suspect connected to two separate incidents of unlawful entry and criminal threats.
 

Officers were dispatched to the 1200 block of Ward Avenue for a report of a burglary in progress. The caller reported that the suspect, identified as Trinity Fields, had entered the residence without permission. Officers made contact with the reporting party outside the residence, who informed them that Fields was inside a back bedroom. Officers entered the residence, announced their presence, and located Fields, who was then taken into custody.

According to the investigation, Fields had been previously involved in a separate case on the prior evening involving aggravated burglary and criminal threat after allegedly kicking in a rear door and making threats to occupants. Despite being told not to return to the property, Fields allegedly re-entered the home through a rear window by removing a window-mounted air conditioner earlier in the day. The resident reported that Fields was not a tenant and had no permission to be inside the home. Officers observed evidence consistent with forced entry, including the air-conditioning unit, which was photographed and documented. Fields was arrested on new charges of criminal trespass, in addition to the pending charges related to the prior burglary investigation.

Coffeyville Community College is looking at the potential of adding solar panels to a few locations around campus.

President Marlon Thornburg says this would help reduce their reliance on local energy.  SEK Solar's Daniel Zywietz says they're looking at putting solar panels at the football stadium and on top of Weinberg Hall.

CCC would also potentially look at adding solar panels to the top of the student union. This was just a preliminary discussion and no decision was made. Tax credits would be available to the college if the project were to begin before the end of the year.

A retired Coffeyville Police Department K9 passes away.

In a post on Facebook, CPD says it is with great sadness that they announce the passing of retired Police Service Dog Rommel. He was a 13-year-old dual-purpose Belgian Malinois, who served CPD alongside his handler and partner, Captain Darin Daily, for ten years.

Throughout his career, Rommel demonstrated dedication, loyalty, and courage in protecting the community and supporting his fellow officers in countless ways. After a decade of service, he retired in December 2023. CPD says Rommel will be deeply missed by his family, Captain Daily, and all who had the privilege of working beside him. His impact and legacy will not be forgotten.

Two Parsons men are arrested and facing charges for robbery and battery.

Parsons Police officers responded to a report of a battery in the 1100 block of South 13^th Street. Officers located the victim, who had facial injuries and blood visible on his face and clothing. The victim declined immediate medical attention but was later transported to Labette Health. Medical personnel confirmed multiple facial fractures and other injuries consistent with a physical assault.

The preliminary investigation revealed that earlier in the evening, the victim reportedly confronted two men he believed were involved in the theft of his property. Shortly after returning to his residence, two men arrived and forced their way inside, where a physical altercation happened. Officers identified the suspects as Jonathan "Junebug" Atchley and Jeremiah "JD" Schaible, both of Parsons. Witness statements and evidence indicate that Schaible assaulted the victim while Atchley was present and allegedly took the victim's wallet during the incident.

Officers later located Schaible at a residence in the 2600 block of Clark Avenue, where he was taken into custody. Atchley subsequently arrived at the Parsons Police Department and was also taken into custody. Atchley was arrested for aggravated robbery and kidnapping, battery and criminal littering. Schaible was arrested for Aggravated battery, kidnapping and robbery.

A boy is dead after falling from a bluff in a northwest Arkansas National Park.

Authorities say the 13-year-old boy was exploring near the edge of Brewer Bluff at Buffalo National River about 50 miles south of Branson on Saturday morning. Representatives from the National Park Service say the boy lost his footing and fell nearly 260 feet to the bottom of the bluff. Emergency crews responded to the scene, but the boy was found unresponsive.

The incident remains under investigation by the Park Service and the Searcy County Sheriff's Department.

Neewollah festivities continue tonight in Independence with the Queen Neelah Talent Competition at Memorial Hall.

Independence Chamber President Lisa Wilson says the competitors have put in a lot of work over the past months.

Tickets are still available for both the talent competition and the coronation. Both can also be viewed via a pu rchased livestream. For purchase options, follow this link.

Neewollah is underway in Independence.

The wet weather did not deter festival goers as Riverside Park was the focus of activities on Saturday morning. Local runners participated in the 5K and 10K runs with Alina Heater and Nathan Barrett crossing the finish line first in the 5K while Megan Lawrence and Marty Kelly took top honors in the 10K.

The annual chili cook-off wenton despite the rain wil 1^st place going to Herrick's Smoke House, and Bet Your Bottom Bowl and Independence Ready Mix taking second anf third place. The People's Choice went to Southern Star while Hillyard Hillbilly Chili took home the award for General's Choice. 2 Girls, 3 Beans won Best Decor.

Dessert Contest Winners were Sarah Cotton, Arielle Gustafson, and Michelle Swearingen in first, second, and third place while Robert Robertson won the General's Choice Award.

Neewollah activities move to Memorial Hall tonight for the Queen Neelah Talent Competition at 7pm. The coronation takes place tomorrow night.

The Neodesha Fire Department responds to a weekend grass fire.

Firefighters were called to a location along US-400 just south of 500 Road on Sunday afternoon for reports of a grass fire. The initial call came in around 3pm. When crews arrive on the scene, they found a small grass fire in the ditch along US-400, just west of the City. The fire was extinguished within minutes upon arrival.

There were no damages or injuries reported.

A suspect is in custody following a foot chase and an officer-involved shooting in Leflore County, Oklahoma.

The incident occurred just before 1pm on Saturday at the suspect’s home near Bokoshe or about 15 miles south of Sallisaw. Deputies from the Leflore County Sheriff’s Office along with an Oklahoma Highway Patrol trooper attempted to serve an arrest warrant on 34-year-old Dustin  Ray Tackett. When police arrived on the scene, Tackett fled. During the foot chase, officers say Tackett pulled a gun and began firing. Police returned fire, striking the suspect. Tackett was taken to a nearby hospital and his condition remains unknown.

No officers were injured in the incident.

A Baxter Springs man enters a guilty plea to federal child pornography charges.

41-year-old Kenneth Baker pled guilty in a Wichita federal courtroom last week to one count of distributing the illegal materials. Baker was arrested by FBI agents in June who began investigating him in February after software detected a request for images coming from his I-P address. A search warrant served on his property in June revealed more than 2,000 files and 150 videos on his laptop computer.

Baker is scheduled to be sentenced in January. Attorney General Kris Kobach has recommended an 11 year prison sentence for the offense.

The Interstate Fair and Rodeo in Coffeyville is looking for area high school students interested in becoming candidates for the Fair’s Junior Advisory Board.

The J-A-B’s purpose is to provide valuable input to the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo Association and Chairmans about what teens would like to see and do at the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo. Board members are expected to fulfill a variety of duties such as attending all J-A-B monthly meetings, contribute volunteer hours for Fair planning and events,  and interact positively with Fair attendees and participants.

The Inter-State Fair and Rodeo is currently seeking applications from interested high school candidates from Montgomery, Labette, and Chautauqua counties in Kansas and from Craig, Nowata, and Washington counties in Oklahoma. Members of the Junior Advisory Board must be Freshmen to Seniors upon appointment.

For more information or to apply, follow this link.

The City of Coffeyville is offering a curbside leaf pick-up for city residents through the end of November.

City crews will be using the new leaf vac and leaf box to pick up leaves piled at the curb. The leaf box is a large, truck mounted box used with the leaf vacuum system, where leaves are sucked into the box and transported to a disposal site. The system provides for efficient collections and organized waste disposal. Leaves must be raked and piled at the curb, with any limbs or other debris removed. Residents must then fill out a pick-up request form on the City’s website. The form is available at this link.

Cherryvale honors the Cherryvale High School 1975 State Runner-Up football team at CHS’s most recent game.

Members of the team along with coaches, managers, and cheerleaders from the historic season were recognized during a half-time ceremony at Friday night’s home football game against Bluestem at the Logan Park Stadium. More than 20 CHS alumi were recognized during the game. That historic team had a record of 12 wins with their only loss coming in the 2A Championship game against Beloit.

To add to the celebration, the Chargers defeat Bluestem 42-18.

A wind advisory is in place through early afternoon for the four-state area.

South winds 25 to 30 mph with gusts up to 45 mph are expected for southeast Kansas, northeast Oklahoma and southwest Missouri.

Those in the area should use caution while driving in cross winds and secure outdoor object. The advisory will be in place from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. this afternoon.

The staff at Ralph Mitchell Zoo in Independence are celebrating a recent addition to their animal family.

On October 6th, zoo staff noticed one of their elks named Ellie was in labor. After some observation, staff determined Ellie was in trouble and called in a vet to help deliver the calf. The female was delivered safely, though Ellie had to be sedated for the birth. The sedation required the new calf to be removed for bottle feeding. After some tense days, the calf began feeding normally and staff reports that both Ellie and her baby are doing well. The new calf will remain behind the scenes at the zoo until she is weaned and can be introduced to the larger herd.

The calf will be named either Olive or Annie based on voting at the Zoo over the weekend. Zoo staff have not yet announced the new baby’s name.

Photos courtesy Ralph Mitchell Zoo

The Kansas Department of Transportation is looking for the public‘s support in their efforts to secure a national award.

KDOT has recently developed a tool called VR USA. Kim Negrete with the Wichita Area Metropolitan Planning Organization says the tool helps communities plan safer infrastructure goals for vulnerable road users.

Cherie Sage with Safe Kids Kansas says the tool helps communities protect the most vulnerable road users.

KDOT is hoping the tool will win the People’s Choice Award from the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials. To vote for KDOT, follow this link. You can vote daily.

The Montgomery County Commission will meet today with several items from Public Works on the agenda

County Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins will appear before the commission and present quarterly cash receipts from the department. Beurskins will also discuss an agreement with the Kansas Department of Transportation over reimbursement from the state for a detour on US-160. The agreement will cover additional maintenance expenditures by the county for County Roads 5700, 4400, and 5500 due to increased traffic caused by the detour. The amount of compensation from the state is set at no more than $148,000. There is also an executive session scheduled to allow commissioners to discuss confidential financial matters with County Administrator Jonathan Booe and County Attorney Melissa Johnson.

Today’s meeting begins at 9am in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Judicial Center in Independence. The public is invited to attend in person or to view the meeting online via the County’s website.

A person is transported via helicopter after an injury at Elk City State Park.

Yesterday around 3 p.m., a report came in that an individual wrecked his bicycle on the trail near the river. Injuries warranted helicopter transport from MedFlight Parsons that landed near the outlet of Elk City Lake. Independence Fire/EMS and Independence Rural Fire also assisted on the scene.

Photo: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

The Cherryvale City Council will meet tonight to continue work on several projects.

Tonight's agenda includes a look at bids for changing electrical service for the fire department in addition to telephone, IT and PC updates. There will also be an open discussion regarding a proposal for a trash bin cleaning service. The third quarter treasurer's report will also be given at tonight's meeting, which starts at 6 p.m. at City Hall in Cherryvale. The public is welcome to attend.

The Cherokee County Sheriff's Office is investigating an incident at the Riverton School District.

On Monday, the sheriff's office was contacted by administrators in reference to alleged inappropriate actions involving a male student and other female students. Detectives from the Cherokee County Sherriff’s Office began an investigation into the allegations.

A Cherryvale man is arrested and is facing numerous charges after fleeing from law enforcement.

Late last week, Montgomery County Sheriff deputies attempted to conduct a traffic stop near Main and Liberty Street in Cherryvale, because the vehicle did not display a visible rear license plate. The driver failed to stop, and a short vehicle pursuit ensued. The vehicle eventually came to a stop at a residence in the 200 block of Neosho Street. Deputies made contact with the driver, identified as Jacob Hamilton.

Hamilton resisted arrest but was quickly taken into custody. During the investigation, deputies determined that Hamilton had discarded about 48 grams of methamphetamine from the vehicle during the pursuit. A loaded firearm was also located inside the vehicle. Sheriff deputies and Cherryvale Police officers executed a search warrant and located additional drug paraphernalia, evidence indicating narcotics had been destroyed and multiple stolen items linked to thefts in Cherryvale, Coffeyville, Labette County, Wilson County and Neosho County.

Hamilton was booked into the Montgomery County Department of Corrections facing charges of distribution of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia, interference with law enforcement, fleeing and attempting to elude law enforcement, transporting an open container, failure to use a turn signal and no vehicle registration or insurance.

 A $14.7 million no-tax increase proposal to build a new elementary school in Miami fails by two votes.

 In Tuesday’s special election, Miami, with 10,143 current voter registration records, saw 438 yes votes and 294 no votes against the proposal. With 60% yes votes needed to pass, the proposal fell .16%, or two votes shy of passing.

 Miami Schools Superintendent Jill Douthit said she plans to reevaluate her efforts and present another version of the proposal, either in February or April of 2026.

 A Bartlesville man faces criminal charges after allegedly threatening to shoot up a Bartlesville elementary school.

 49-year-old Broderick Anderson was charged yesterday for threatening to perform an act of violence and committing acts resulting in outraging public decency.

 Bartlesville Police says Anderson was allegedly hostile to elementary school staff and to authorities on campus August 14th, as students were being released. Anderson is accused of yelling profanities at authorities and school staff in the presence of children.

 As Anderson was confronted by a school official about his behavior, Anderson allegedly responded by threatening to shoot up the school.

 Anderson's bond was set at $25,000; his next court appearance was set for October 29^th.

 A Bartlesville woman faces a felony child abuse charge after allegedly hitting a child with a belt.

 Bartlesville Police says 35-year-old Megan DeVeronica was charged Thursday for the charge after attempting to discipline the child. DeVeronica allegedly struck the child in the bottom and in the upper back. The victim had bruising on the shoulder.

 BPD says DeVeronica allegedly admitted to striking the child more than once.

 Her bond is set at $50,000, with her next court appearance set for October 31^st.

 An Ochelata man is facing criminal charges after allegedly possessing methamphetamine.

 33-year-old Garrett Payton was charged yesterday with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and unlawful possession of drug paraphernalia.

 Bartlesville Police say authorities responded to a disturbance and observed Payton attempting to enter a residence with a hatchet. Once authorities stopped Payton, he allegedly threw the hatchet on the ground and moved away from it.

 After confiscating a cellphone in Payton’s pocket, they found a plastic bag of methamphetamine. The total weight of the bag was 0.7 grams. Also found were multiple syringes used for methamphetamine.

 Payton plead guilty in 2017 to a felony count of failing to comply with sex offender registration.

 Payton's bond is $5,000; his next appearance in court was set for October 29^th.

A few storms are possible this afternoon with a marginal risk of severe weather this evening.

Locations along and southeast of the Kansas Turnpike will have the highest chances for storms. The strongest storms will be capable of producing nickel to quarter-size hail along with 50 to 60 mph winds. Thunderstorm development is most likely after 7 tonight.

Increased severe weather chances also include northeast Oklahoma, northwest Arkansas and southern Missouri through the overnight hours into early tomorrow morning, with a better chance of severe weather centered around the state of Arkansas.

More than 1,000 people packed downtown Coffeyville for another night of trick-or-treating.

The Coffeyville Chamber's annual Spooktacular event filled the sidewalks of downtown along 8^th, 9^th and Walnut.

Face painting, free hot dogs, Kool-Aid and lots of candy were handed out by local businesses and organizations. Spooktacular takes place on the Thursday before Neewollah week to avoid conflicting with events in Independence.

Top Photo: Frank Shedden, SnapWild Photography

Photo: James Copeland

Photo: James Copeland

Montgomery County will have one less public transportation option starting November 1^st. Coffeyville City Clerk Melissa Carter says SEK-CAP will have to suspend their transportation services.

Carter says Coffeyville made up over 61% of the riders in the county, which is almost double the next closest community in Independence at just over 32%. In order to resume their services in July, they will need the remaining $27,000 in community matching support.

With cold weather around the corner, a fundraiser to help keep local children warm is coming up.

The 19^th Annual “Coats for Kids” Motorcycle Run will be this Saturday in Coffeyville. Organizer Marty Frye says the event is in memory of “Special” Ed Schille and provides for kids in need around the area.

Motorcycles and even cars are welcome to gather at St. Paul's Episcopal Church this Saturday at 11:30 in the church parking lot at 7^th and Elm. Frye says the parade will begin at 12:30 and end at American Legion Post 20 on 12^th Street.

Chili will be served after the parade at the Legion. Cash donations for coats are always welcome, and the entire event is open to the public.

Emergency crews respond to an accident at 11th and Maple in Coffeyville.

The accident was reported today just before 11 a.m. across the street from the Pete's Convenience Store.  A passenger van and car were involved in the crash.  There do not appear to be any injuries at this time.  Coffeyville Police, Fire and EMS responded to the scene.

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The Wilson County Commission continues to evaluate their options regarding the most effective way to provide EMS service to the City of Neodesha.

Representatives from the City of Neodesha, county and city EMS and fire, and the county commission, have had numerous discussions in the past two months about the current situation. Neodesha City Manager Brogan Jones says the current EMS resources are not fully operational.

Neodesha and Wilson County Medical Center have been receiving mutual aid on transfers from both Fredonia and Independence for the past several weeks. County Commissioner Andrew Miller says a bettter solution needs to be reached.

The involved parties have until the end of the 2025 year under the current system, to continue discussing future options.

 The City of Carthage issues notice informing residents about several fake and false Facebook accounts, created to look like city pages.

 Officials say the pages are not affiliated with or endorsed by the City of Carthage.

 Residents are encouraged to receive accurate and timely information through the City’s verified City of Carthage Facebook page and the official City website at carthagemo.gov. They also caution to verify before sharing content from unofficial sources to prevent misinformation from spreading.

 Residents who find flase pages or posts representing the City are encouraged to report them directly to Facebook and notify City staff by calling (417) 237-7000.

 A cow found with a fatal gunshot wound has prompted an investigation by the Vernon County, Missouri Sheriff's Department.

 Sheriff Mike Buehler says he was contacted about the cow; it was found shot east of Nevada off Highway 54. Although some evidence has been processed, no witnesses have been found.

 Buehler says the shooting is serious, especially with cattle prices rising.

 Buehler asks anyone with information to call the Vernon County Sheriff Office.

 The investigation is ongoing.

 A raid on a marijuana farm in Pawnee, Oklahoma Tuesday leads to the arrest of ten people, and more arrests are expected.

 Wyatt’s Green, a marijuana farm, has been the subject of an ongoing investigation into illegal growing and business fraud.

 Led by Oklahoma’s Marijuana Enforcement Teams, officials seized over 18,500 marijuana plants and over 1,700 pounds of processed marijuana. Those arrested were taken into custody by federal Immigration and Customs Enforcement.

 The investigation charges Wyatt's Green management with growing marijuana without proper state licensing and the use of improper methods to obtain licenses by false ownership of the farm.

 Since 2022, Oklahoma’s Marijuana Enforcement Team and local and state agencies have shut down thousands of illegal farms, taking millions of marijuana plants off the market and arresting hundreds.

 Illegal drug activity or human trafficking can be reported by calling the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics tip line at 800-522-8031.

 Crawford County commissioners will hold final say on annexation of land for a projected half-billion dollar solar project near Mulberry.

 Shasta Power is leasing over 1,600 acres owned by multiple landowners; those landowners are asking to annex to the City of Mulberry. The property is located on Highway 69, six miles southwest of Mulberry. If approved, the project would bring up to 250 construction jobs during the 18-month build phase and ten permanent positions. The city of Mulberry could see tax revenue from Shasta starting as early as January 1^st.

 Shasta's $500 million investment would include $200 million for battery storage technology.

 The annexation request has been approved by the Mulberry City Council.

 Shasta representatives say Crawford County commissioners must address three issues; whether landowners requested the annexation, whether landowners have consented to it, and whether the annexation would block future development. So far, the commission has looked at the land annexation, but no details about the solar project.

 Once the city of Mulberry sends the annexation request, the county has 30 days to respond.

 A Bartlesville man is facing criminal charges after allegedly possessing methamphetamine.

 44-year-old Stewart Cheshewalla was charged yesterday with possession of a controlled dangerous substance.

 According to Bartlesville Police, authorities stopped Cheshewalla around 1:00 yesterday morning for walking on the wrong side of the road. Dispatch confirmed an outstanding warrant and found 0.7 grams of methamphetamine in Cheshewalla’s possession. He allegedly admitted to authorities to possessing CDS.

 Cheshewalla was also charged in April for possession of CDS.

 His bond was set at $2,000, with his next court appearance scheduled for October 29^th.

 A mandate to distribute Bibles and integrate biblical character classes in Oklahoma public schools is now officially over.

 New Superintendent of Public Instruction Lindel Fields is rescinding the directive set in place by previous State Superintendent Ryan Walters.

 In a statement issued yesterday, Fields says the State Department of Education will file a motion to dismiss a lawsuit about Walters’ move to integrate Bibles and biblical education into school curriculum, adding the initiative is no longer a part of public education policy.

 The lawsuit was filed by a group of Oklahomans against Walters and five state Board of Education members who are no longer in office. The lawsuit argues the previous mandate imposes upon student religious liberty.

The fall book sale starts today at the Fredonia Public Library.

Today from 9 to 6, Friends of the Library members will have exclusive access to the sale. Public hours will be tomorrow from 9 to 6 and Saturday 9 to noon.

If you are not a member but would like access today, you can purchase membership at the door for $5. Everything takes place at the Fredonia Public Library.

Photo: Friends of the Fredonia, KS Library

Coffeyville Cleanup week continues with a chance to dispose hazardous waste coming up tomorrow.

Bulk trash items can continue to be dropped off at the tree dump by following the signs at 1st and Union. Items accepted include furniture, appliances, TVs and residential building materials. Items not accepted include tires, hazardous waste, prescription drugs, contractor building materials and household trash. Refrigerators and air conditioners must include a certificate showing Freon has been removed.

Electric Services Director Chris Weiner says all bulk items except hazardous waste will be collected in one location.

The tree dump will be open 10 to 6 through tomorrow, and 8 to 4 on Saturday and noon to 4 on Sunday.

Hazardous waste be collected tomorrow from 8 to 2 behind the Pete's Convenience store. Antifreeze, pesticides, used oil, transmission fluid, household cleaners, paint and batteries will be accepted. Explosives, compressed gas cylinders, tires, trash and asbestos cannot be taken.

A driver's license or utility bill with a Coffeyville address is required to utilize these services. Anyone with questions can call the city clerk at 620-252-6108.

 A process started under former Caney Police Chief Kevin Kitterman comes to fruition, as Caney PD and USD 436 announce receiving an award of the Community Oriented Policing Services Hiring Program Grant to fund a School Resource Officer.

 Police Chief Ike Dye says the SRO's focus will be building positive relationships with students, while ensuring school safety.

 With the grant funding moving in place, there is already an officer ready to fill the position.

 Both Dye and USD 436 Superintendent Blake Vargas agree that a SRO as a mentor and familiar face in the halls will strengthen the entire community and send a reminder to keep working toward the same goal: helping kids feel safe, supported, and ready to learn.

 Beginning at noon Thursday, we'll hear from Superintendent Vargas about the grant and how it will positively impact the district.

 The full conversation with Chief Dye can be found here. 

The Montgomery County Attorney's Office sees an increase in criminal cases and also works to decrease truancy in area schools.

That was the report made by County Attorney Melissa Johnson and Assistant County Attorney Karen Miller at this week's Montgomery County Commission meeting. The two attorneys were on hand to make their quarterly report to commissioners.

Miller outlined the program to decrease truancy, that began in Montgomery and Chautauqua counties in 2023. That year, 94 truancy cases were filed with an additional 105 cases the following school year. More than half of those cases occurred in Independence. Miller says the County Attorney's Office only handles cases for kids aged 13 and up.

Younger students are handled by the Department of Children and Families. Miller says the purpose of the intervention is to make sure students are going to class.

In addition to Miller's explanation of the truancy program, commissioners also heard an update from Melissa Johnson on criminal cases. Johnson says 401 such cases have been filed this year, compared to 417 in 2024.

A Bartlesville man is facing a felony charge after allegedly driving under the influence of alcohol.

46-year-old Omar Parks was charged on Monday with felony DUI, operating a vehicle with an expired tag and driving with a license revoked.

According to the Bartlesville Police Department, authorities stopped Parks for having an expired license plate. Officers say Parks showed multiple signs of intoxication and also admitted to drinking before operating the vehicle.

Parks will appear in court again on October 17^th. His bond is set at $50,000.

A Bartlesville man is facing a felony charge after allegedly assaulting a police officer.

19-year-old Christopher Pullins, Jr. was charged on Tuesday with assault and battery on a police officer. Pullins, Jr. also faces charges of disturbing the peace, a misdemeanor.

The charges tem from an October 12 the incident, Pullins allegedly got into an altercation with another individual at a Dewey residence. Dewey Police say Pullins then threw rocks at the residence and hit a security camera on the front porch.

As econd suspect in the same incident identified as Jasmine Sanderson was also charged on Monday with threatening to perform an act of violence, a misdemeanor.

Pullins will appear in court again on October 17^th. His bond is set at $10,000.

Montgomery County Clerk administers swearing in ceremony to the new County Treasurer.

Mandi Hargis was officially sworn in as the new Montgomery County Treasurer at noon on Tuesday. Although Hargis won election to her office in November 2024, due to state statute, new County Treasurers do not take office until the second Tuesday in the following October.

Prior to her election, Hargis served for 18 in the Montgomery County Treasurer's Office, bringing a great deal of previous experience to her new role. Hargis will serve a four year term as Treasurer. She takes over her duties from outgoing County Treasurer Nancy Clubine, who officially retired last week after more than 40 years of service.

Candidates for the Independence Community College Board of Trustees look ahead to the future of the school.

At last week's cadidate forum conducted by the Independence Chamber of Commerce, three of the six candidates for trustee addressed the issue of the future for ICC. With many students who pursue post-secondary education choosing technical and certification programs instead of traditional college, candidates were asked abouit their thoughts about ICC's future.

Candidates Logan Null says he thinks proper funding for programs like welding, plumbing, and HVAC are the key.

Darnell “D.J.” Lawrie says he thinks research into what the school needs is important.

Candidate Isaias McCaffery says he thinks tech programs are a good additional but that there is still a need for a more traditional path to higher education.

Logan Null, DJ Lawrie, and Isaias McCaffery will appear on the November 4^th ballot along with Jeri Hammerschidt, Cynthia Sherwood, and John Eubanks. To view the full candidate forum, follow this link.

TOP: Logan Null, Darnell "D.J." Lawrie. BOTTOM: Isaias McCaffery

Another suspect on Oklahoma's 10 Most Wanted List in now in custody.

20-year-old Justice Jauquin Jones turned himself in to authorities in Oregon on October 4. He was wanted on multiple charges, including rape, domestic assault and battery by strangulation, and robbery. The charges stem from a July 17 incident in Durant, where police allege Jones repeatedly assaulted a woman who had attempted to end their relationship. Authorities also say he stole her phone and transferred approximately $12,000 from her bank account into his own.

Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s 10 Most Wanted program began in September 2024 to spotlight violent fugitives and encourage public assistance in bringing them to justice. Since the program’s launch, 14 fugitives accused of serious felonies have been captured.

The biggest celebration of the year starts this weekend in Independence.  Neewollah kicks off Friday with a full lineup of events.

The first performance of the musical “Annie” will take place this Friday at 7 p.m., followed by additional performances Saturday at 7 and Sunday at 2. Tickets are available at neewollah.com or 311 N Penn Avenue.

Saturday will include a 5K and 10K plus a fun run at 8:30, followed by the annual chili cook-off and dessert competition. Independence Chamber Director Lisa Wilson says it's always a big event.

KGGF staff will be live from the event Saturday morning from 10 to noon on Classic Hits 104.1.

Neewollah Night at the Movies will round out the weekend with the showing of “Hotel Transylvania” at Independence Cinemas at 7 p.m.

An upgrade to the playground equipment at Pfister Park is coming.

The City of Coffeyville received a GameTime Playground grant and the City Commission approved their own matching funds to purchase the new equipment. Director of Public Works Jim Wright says this is to replace some of the playground equipment that is damaged and fallen into disrepair.

The total cost of the project is just under $140,000, with just under $70,000 coming out of the parks fund. City Manager Ben Brubaker says this is outside of their parks plan but it was approved by the Parks Board.

The USD 286 Board of Education approves an update to their technology policy.

The board voted to prohibit the use of all personal devices including cell phones, earbuds, smartwatches, and Bluetooth headphones, during school hours, including lunch periods. The goal of the new policy is to minimize distractions, increase student engagement and maintain a safe and focused learning environment across all grade levels.

Superintendent Jamie Wetig says that the ban includes any non-district issued device capable of communicating electronically or accessing the internet. Students are expected to keep their devices turned off and stored securely in a backpack, locker or vehicle during the school day. Exceptions will be made for students with approved Individualized Education Programs, 504 Plans or medical plans that specifically require the use of a personal device for educational or medical reasons and only as described in those plans.

It's a big end of week and weekend for Halloween themed events in Coffeyville.

The Coffeyville Chamber or Commerce's Spooktacular is this Thursday. Chamber President Candi Westbrook says the last couple of years they've had over 1200 people come through the downtown area.

Coffeyville Community College's Trunk-or-Treat is from 5:30pm to 7:30pm. Also on Thursday, The CCC band and choir will be putting on a Fall Concert starting at 7:00pm in the Spencer Rounds Theater.

Then from Friday through Sunday the Chamber Ambassadors will be hosting Haunted History Tours with the doors opening at 7:30pm and the tours starting at 8:00pm at the Old Condon Bank.

A former Coffeyville attorney and district judge passes away.

Roger Gossard passed away last Friday at the age of 80. He was a 1962 graduate of Field Kindley High School and attended one year at Coffeyville Community College. Gossard transferred to the University of Oklahoma, where he joined the Sigma Chi fraternity and received his Bachelor of Arts degree. He went on to receive a Juris Doctorate (J.D.) from the University of Oklahoma College of Law.

Gossard served as a judge for the Fourteenth Judicial District in Kansas from 2003 to 2015 and was appointed as the chief judge in 2009. After serving as a judge, Gossard returned to practice law part-time until his full retirement in December 2024. Services will be on Saturday, October 25^th at 10:00am at the First United Methodist Church in Coffeyville.

 Assemblies and concerts will sound a whole lot better soon after a donation from the Caney Alumni Association to USD-436.

 Caney Alums presented a check for over $5,400 to the board during last night's meeting for the sound system for the auditorium.

 Superintendent Blake Vargas says the donation was unexpected.

 Vargas says replacing the sound system has been on the to-do list for several years, and he is happy to see the project checked off the list. The board added the donation to the agenda and accepted the donation in a unanimous vote.

 Other items of business included discussion of a substitute handbook and continued discussion on the historic stadium.

 We'll hear from Superintendent Vargas later this week concerning the 1939 stadium on our KGGF family of stations.

USD 446 has reached an agreement with the City of Independence regarding usage of the Central Park Sports Complex.

That's the latest from this month's board meeting, where a motion was finally made following over a year of discussion and negotiation between the two parties. USD 446 had two proposals to choose between, one which was $70,000 per year with a $300,000 property credit, contributing to the first ten years. The second option was a $65,000 per year obligation, with a $350,000 property credit, that included no immediate payment for five years but added 3% annual escalation.

District Superintendent Jason McAfee says he recommends the stability of the first option.

It was not a unanimous decision for the board to approve. Board Member Sam Blackard says he feels the investment is too much for not enough of a return.

Joining Blackard in opposing the motion was Board Member Jen Rutledge. She says she feels the process wasn't handled as well as it should have.

The motion for the agreement passed by a 5-2 vote, with Blackard and Rutledge voting no. The agreement goes into place on January 1st, 2026.

Candidates for the USD 446-Independence School Board address the issues at a recent candidate forum.

The forum was organized last week by the Independence Chamber of Commerce. The five candidates running for the USD 446 Board are Ben Seel, Sam Blackard, Jeff Carnes, Deborah Fox, and Daniel McDill. Each candidate was asked to name his or her priority issue.

Candidate Ben Seel says his major issue is transparency.

Sam Blackard says he wants to focus on attracting and retaining high-quality teachers.

Candidate Jeff Carnes agreed with Blackard that the most important task for the Independence School Board should be finding ways to keep good teachers in the district.

Deborah Fox says she would like to see a focus on the efficient use of resources, including taxpayer funds, personnel, and equipment.

Candidate Daniel McDill says he would like to see the district make a stronger effort to partner with local businesses.

The five candidates are vying for three at-large seats on the USD 446 School Board and all will appear on the November 4^th ballot. The entire forum can be viewed at this link.

Candidates for USD 446 School Board, clockwise beginning at the top left: Sam Blackard, Jeff Carnes, Deborah Fox, Ben Seel, Daniel McDill

Camping enthusiasts will be enjoying the great outdoors this weekend at Camper Fest at Elk City State Park.

Activities begin on Friday night with a chili feed at 5pm. There will be a cake walk at 7 followed by family bingo and a flashlight candy hunt. Saturday is packed with fun events such as horseshoe and cornhole tournaments, hayrides, a costume contest, and a drawing for door prizes.

Camper Fest happens at Elk City State Park this Friday and Saturday.

Autumn in Kansas means drivers must be careful to avoid hitting deer.

Due to breeding season, collisions are more likely to occur from October through the end of the year. Shawn Steward with Triple-A Kansas says it's a particularly dangerous time of year for car-deer collisions.

Tips to avoid collisions with a deer include being watchful when driving at dawn and dusk when the animals are most likely to be on the move, and reduce speed and be alert near wooded areas. Steward says it's always a good idea to wear your seat belt.

Anyone involved in a collision with a deer or other animal resulting in personal injury or property damage totaling $1,000 or more is required to report the accident to local law enforcement.

Authorities in Dodge City release the identities of the three victims of a weekend fire.

Dodge City officials have confirmed that Ismael, Ruth, and Daniel Marquez perished in a residential fire on Sunday morning. Around 9:40am, firefighters arrived at the scene on the southern edge of Dodge City to find two trailer homes and three vehicles on fire. One of the homes was fully engulfed in flames.

Firefighters were able to quickly bring the blaze under control and prevent it from spreading, but they were unable to save the three victims.

The Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the cause of the fire. A GoFundMe has been established to help the family.

A McCune man is set to be sentenced in the shooting death of his grandson.

70-year-old John Fox entered a guilty plea to voluntary manslaughter in September for the 2023 shooting death of Ian Fox. The 28-year-old Fox was found unresponsive in a McCune home on August 7, 2023, after a 9-1-1 caller told dispatchers that the victim had been shot by their grandfather. John Fox was originally charged with second-degree murder in the case, but prosecutors reduced the charge to voluntary manslaughter in return for a guilty plea.

Fox will face sentencing on November 17 in Crawford County.

The Nowata County Commission meets for a regularly scheduled meeting at the Nowata County Annex.

At yesterday's meeting, commissioners heard an update on radio tower projects from across the county. Commissioner Brandon Wesson says there is one final step before the full maintenance project is completed.

The tower in question has a previous history of water leaks. Commissioner Paul Crupper reported that maintenance is still underway on the radio tower in New Alluwe.

Once the entire project is complete, first responders will be able to get a stronger radio signal in more rural areas of the county.

In other business, commissioners also approved a resolution to make Guy Engineering the responsible party for bridge inspections in the county.

Independence Fire & EMS Department launches Operation Christmas Joy, in which they will adopt one deserving family in the community.

The chosen family will receive a festive holiday meal along with presents for their children, courtesy of Independence Fire & EMS. In order to assist this deserving family, the department is asking for the community's help in identifying the right recipients.

To nominate a family, submit a brief letter describing the family's current circumstances and why they would benefit from this support. Anyone who knows a family facing significant challenges this holiday season is invited to nominate them. All nominations will remain confidential. Submissions must be received by Friday, November 7.

Letters of nomination can be mailed or delivered in person to:

Independence Fire-EMS

Attn: Operation Christmas Joy

900 W. Myrtle

Independence, KS 67301

The Montgomery County Commission will meet tonight for their regular weekly meeting due to yesterday's observance of Columbus Day.

On the agenda this evening will be the approval of recent revisions to the county employee handbook. Commissioners will also hear quarterly reports from the County Attorney's Office and the County Health Department.

Tonight's meeting will begin at 6pm in the Commission Room on the lower level of the Juducial Center in Independence. The public is invited to attend in person or to view the meeting online via the County's website.

A Tennessee man enters a guilty plea to the unlawful poaching of a trophy deer in Kansas in 2024.

Kansas Game Wardens first became aware of the case in early 2024, while investigating an unrelated poaching case. Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks discovered that a trophy deer had been illegally killed in Miami County, Kansas, and later falsely tagged in Missouri. This led investigators to eventually obtain a warrant for the phone records of the suspect in the case. The data confirmed that the individual had been in Kansas at the time the deer was killed. By late summer 2024, wardens traveled to the Nashville area, where they seized the illegally taken deer. During the investigation, the suspect confessed over the phone to killing the animal in Kansas using a rifle and without the required permit.

As a result of the investigation, the suspect was prosecuted in Miami County, Kansas, and recently entered a guilty plea to charges related to the illegal killing of the deer. He was ordered to pay a $5,000 fine, nearly $4,000 in restitution, and $108 in court costs.

KDWP enforces state and federal fish and wildlife regulations, boating laws, and public land rules across both private and public lands.

There will be a candidate forum tonight in Parsons.

Candidates for the Parsons City Commission, the USD 503-Parsons School Board, the USD 506-Labette County Schools Board, and the Labette Community College Board of Trustees will be present at the forum to answer questions and make their positions known for voters.

Tonight's forum begins at 5:30pm in the City Commission Room on the first floor of the Parsons Municipal Building. The public is encouraged to attend.

Another bond vote in South Coffeyville is just over a month away.

After the last bond attempt failed by one vote, the board approved a modified bond issue that will cover improvements district-wide, including roof and window repairs and HVAC, with the addition of some safety upgrades. Superintendent Daryl Pruter says the hope is to be able to add storm shelters and increase school security.

If the bond passes, the average homeowner with a market-value property worth $68,000 would see a projected monthly increase of $6.29 over the 10-year bond. Pruter says there is a very small difference in the cost between the last bond attempt and this one.

The bond issue will be decided on November 18^th in conjunction with the general election.

The Salvation Army Community Service Volunteers will be happy to make lunch for you tomorrow, October 14th.

It's time for the annual Souplicious Luncheon in Coffeyville. Volunteer Terry Gregory says there will be a wide variety of soups available.

Gregory says the funds raised at this event help to serve those in need throughout the year.

The lunch will be tomorrow from 11 until 1 at the First Baptist Church at 9^th and Elm. Tickets are $7 and can be purchased at the door. There will also be baked goods for sale in addition to a quilt raffle.

Repairs to the boiler at Roosevelt Middle School will be a topic of discussion at today's USD 445 School Board meeting.

Board members are expected to approve expenditures to repair a 6 inch boiler line and to replace the glycol mixture in the heating system. Also on the agenda for approval are the resignations of two teacher's assistants and the hiring of six other employees.

Today's meeting begins at 4pm at the District Office. The public is invited to attend.

The Humanities Project from Coffeyville Community College welcomes musician Ruth Wyand to the Spencer Rounds Theater .

Wyand explores the roots and evolution of American music through performance and discussion, highlighting the lives and contributions from musicians such as Stephen Foster, Ma Rainey. Jimmy Rogers, Scott Joplin and more. Audiences will experience a wide range of American songwriters and see how their creativity has shaped popular music across genres.

Wyand will perform tomorrow night at 6:30 in the Spencer Rounds Theater on the CCC campus. Admission to the concert if free.

A weekend end fire in Dodge City claims three lives.

The Dodge City Fire Department responded yesterday morning to a structure fire on the southern edge of the City. The call came in to dispatchers around 9:40. When firefighters arrived on the scene, they found two trailer homes and three vehicles involved in the fire. One trialer home was sfully erngulfed in flames.

Crews worked quickly to contain and extinguish the fire to keep it from spreading to other areas. Officials have confirmed that three people perished in the fire. The Dodge City Police Department is currently investigating in an attempt to identify the victims.

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

Authorities in northwest Arkansas spent the weekend trying to find the owners of a stray emu.

The large, flightless bird was discovered wandering along a road near a wooded area southeast of Fayetteville. Authorities attempted to capture the animal, but emus are known to be excellent runners and managed to avoid being snared. The large bird, named Crissy, was finally captured and has been returned to its owners.

A Tecumseh, OK, teen is in custody of the Federal Bureau of Investigation after threats were made online to “shoot up” a school over the weekend.

The male teenager was identified as the source of the threats made against an unknown school on Saturday. The Pottawatomie County Sheriff’s Office contacted the FBI to assist in the investigation. A search of the suspect’s home revealed evidence supporting the reported threat. Investigators say the teen admitted to the plans and to making the threats during an interview. The suspect has been charged with terroristic threats, threatening an act of violence, violating the computer crimes act, and obscene materials.

Authorities have not identified Tecumseh High School as the target of the threat, but the disctrict has canceled classes for today and tomorrow as a precautionary measure.

The City of Neosho, Missouri, has a new police chief.

Peter Russell has been named to lead the Neosho Police Department. Russell brings 17 years of experience to the position with a strong focus on community-based policing. In his new role, he will oversee all department operations, including patrol, investigations, training, and community outreach.

Previously, Chief Russell served as a Major with New Hampshire Police Standards and Training, supervising up to 120 officers and leading the creation of a statewide police ethics program. He also developed and taught courses on constitutional law and redesigned scenario-based training to strengthen ethical policing practices. He also worked in the Neosho Police Department from 2000 to 2011 where he served as a patrol sergeant and as an instructor on implicit bias.

Russell graduated Summa Cum Laude with a Bachelor’s degree in Psychology from Missouri Southern State University, is POST certified in Missouri and New Hampshire. He earned his juris doctorate from Loyola University in New Orleans, where he previously held a Louisiana Bar license.

Russell officially took over his new duties on  October 8.

Farm City Days happens this weekend in Iola.

The celebration will feature a bull bash and mutton busting on Saturday night at the Allen County Fairgrounds, a Saturday morning parade, and activities and events for the kids all day Saturday. There will be live music and a street dance to begin festivities on Friday night.

Farm City Days began in 1971 when three members of the Allen County Farm Bureau decided that letting townspeople tour farms, it would help them better understand the daily problems and concerns of farmers.

The full list of activities is available here.

 Live music filled the air Saturday as the 6^th annual Hops Around Town took over U-P Park and downtown Coffeyville.

 Those attending were able to enjoy samples from a variety of businesses, including beer, wine and cocktails. There was also food trucks, a corn hole tournament and Plinko.

 Coffeyville Director of Tourism Wyatt Starnes called the event a great way to support local and Kansas breweries and distilleries, and a way to sample different beverages.

 Preparations are already being made for next year's Hops Around Town.

*** photo courtesy of Montgomery County Action Council ***

Candidates for the Independence City Commission share their priorities for office if they are elected.

The Independence Chamber of Commerce hosted a candidate forum at the Civic Center last week. The five individuals running for the City Commission – D.J. Lawrie, Marjorie Reynolds, Scott Smith, Cory Standridge, and Tim White -- shared their views on a variety of topics. One of the question each candidate was asked was to explain their top priority if elected.

 Candidate Darnell "D.J." Lawrie says his top priority will be to bring affordable housing to the City.

Marjorie Reynolds says the most important issue for her is finding ways to encourage more affordable childcare.

Scott Smith agreed that housing was important, but that it is part of the bigger issue of increasing the City’s population. New housing developments and improved rental apartments in the downtown area will help reach that goal. Smith says other great features of Independence are downtown and Riverside Park.

Candidate Corey Standridge answered the same question, stating that he agreed with the other candidates in that housing and childcare are important. However, Standridge says his emphasis would be on retaining employees, especially those who work for EMS.

Candidate Tim White says the most important issue in his campaign is to find the best use for taxpayer money.

All five candidates will be on the November 4th ballot for the general election in Independence. The full candidate forum can be found here.

Clockwise starting at the top left: Darnell "D.J." Lawrie, Marjorie Reynolds, Scott Smith, Tim White, Cory Standridge

A LaHarpe man suffered serious injuries in an ATV in rural Bourbon County on Saturday night.

52-year-old Patrick Long was a passenger on a Polaris ATV that was traveling on 90th Street between US-65 and the Little Osage River around 6pm on Saturday. The driver of the ATV 52-year-old Michael Hawley of Fort Scott drove off the roadway and onto the river bank. When he tried to drive up the embankment, the vehicle overturned backwards and then rolled. Long was taken to Freeman Hospital in Joplin. Hawley suffered minor injuries and was taken to the Freeman Fort Scott Hospital.

Neither man was wearing safety gear when the accident occurred.

One person is injured in a Friday evening accident just south of Sedan.

The crash occurred just after 6pm Friday night at the intersection of US-166 and K-99. A 2009 Chevy Malibu driven by 20-year-old Crystal Gilmore of Sedan was stopped on K-99 at the intersection with US-166. When she attempted to cross the intersection, her vehicle was struck by an oncoming Dodge Journey driven by 69-year-old Deborah Leming of Bartlesville. Leming sustained minor injuries in the crash and was taken to the Sedan Hospital. No other injuries were reported.

Members of the USD 446 Board of Education are set to meet tonight in Independence.

Board members are expected to once again discuss the proposal from the City of Independence regarding the district’s use of the Central Park Sports Complex. The School Board and the City have been in negotiations for the past few months in an attempt to develop agreeable terms for use of the facilities and payment to the city by the district. Also on tonight’s agenda is the publication of a Request for Proposals for turf at Shulthis Stadium.

Board members will also hear a report on enrollment from Superintendent Jason McAfee and building reports about district schools.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 7pm in the library at Independence High School. The public is invited to attend.

The USD 447 Cherryvale-Thayer School Board will meet tonight and entertain a light agenda.

At tonight’s meeting, the school board is expected to select a representative for the Cherryvale Recreation Commission. Zach Tuggle has been serving in the position and is likely to be reappointed for a full term that will expire in 2029. Board members will also hear building reports from the principals of Thayer Schools, Lincoln Central Elementary, and Cherryvale Middle/High School.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 7pm in the library at Thayer School, located at 300 West Wilson Street in Thayer. The meeting is open to the public.

A road closure is planned today in Coffeyville.

Woodland Avenue will be closed at Buckeye Street, west to LeClere Park, starting today for a road realignment project. It's not known at this time how long the project will last. Traffic on Buckeye should not be affected.

Emergency personnel respond to an apparent ammonia leak at the CVR Nitrogen plant.

The incident was reported this afternoon just after 4 p.m. According to initial reports, at least 15 people have been exposed and are receiving medical attention. Sirens sounded at the plant earlier this afternoon, and employees were staging at entrances, but the general public does not need to take any action at this time.

EMS units from Coffeyville in addition to Independence, Caney, Tyro and Cherryvale have been called to assist at the scene. A medical team from Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is also reported to be responding.  In addition to CRMC, patients are being transported to Independence and other area hospitals.

***** Update 5:35 p.m.: The north parking lot at CRMC is being blocked off to allow helicopters to land and transport patients to other hospitals.  

Above photos by John Vest

This is a developing situation – stay tuned for more information.

 The Kansas Bureau of Investigation shares the results of their statewide marijuana enforcement operation.

On October 1^st and 2^nd, KBI agents, with support from local law enforcement, executed search warrants at 18 separate vape shops and CBD dispensaries in Wichita, Topeka, Salina, Great Bend, McPherson, Independence, Pratt, Abilene, Ulysses, Concordia and Sedan. Marijuana products that are prohibited by Kansas law, or were suspected to contain unlawful amounts of THC, were seized. The preliminary results of items seized during the operation include, 5,494 ounces of marijuana bud, 43,867 THC pre-rolls, 35,627 THC vape, 84,481 THC and edibles and $35,436.

63-year-old Gregory Reese and 59-year-old Tammy Reese were arrested on October 2^nd, in Ulysses, for moving illegal THC products in order to evade law enforcement detection. At around 5:00pm on October 2^nd, the Kansas Highway Patrol stopped a 20-foot box truck on Highway 400, near Fredonia. The truck was transporting THC products that were removed from the shelves of 19 Kansas shops. KBI agents seized the truck and its contents. Evidence from these cases is being tested. The investigations are ongoing.

The Independence Chamber of Commerce is looking for trunks for their 8^th Annual Trunk-Or-Treat.

Chamber President Lisa Wilson says for those wanting to participate there are two ways to get signed up.  A link to sign up online is available here.

Trunk-Or-Treat is from 6:00pm to 7:00pm in Downtown Independence on Halloween Night.

Community members are showing their support for the O'Connell family through the Coffeyville Domino's Fundraiser.

All day yesterday, orders poured into the Domino's located at 1010 Read Avenue in Coffeyville. Wait times in the evening were exceeding an hour, but as one patron said they were happy to wait. Coffeyville Domino's, through their Dough Raising Night fundraiser, were donating 25% of all sales made yesterday, October 9^th.

The money raised is being donated to the O'Connell family in support of their daughter, Serafina, who passed away on September 29^th from injuries suffered in a car accident. So many orders came in that Domino's had to cut off orders before they ran out of food, because of that they have extended the fundraiser through the weekend. For those ordering online make sure to click the “Dough Raising Night” coupon.

Anyone looking for an all-you-can-eat breakfast can find it tomorrow morning in Independence.

Mason Scott Null says there will be biscuits and gravy, pancakes, sausage, and eggs.

The cost for adults is $10.

Authorities in Emporia are considering charges against a juvenile is accused of intentionally setting a fire last month.

The juvenile is suspected of setting a structure fire on September 20. Fire crews were able to bring the blaze quickly under control and no injuries were reported in the incident, but investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set.

The juvenile has been referred to the Lyon County Attorney's Office to determine what, if any, charges will be file d. The name of the suspect has not been released due to their age.

A Dewey man is facing criminal charges after allegedly possessing methamphetamine.

42-year-old Bryan Daniel was charged yesterday in a Washington County courtroom with possession of a controlled dangerous substance and operating a motor vehicle with an improper tag. An October 8^th traffic stop for an expired temporary tag decal led Bartlesville Police officers to use a K-9 officer on the scene. Officers then discovered a bag of what appeared to be methamphetamine.

Daniel will make his next court appearance on October 29. He posted a $500 bond.

State agencies report the first known occurance of an invasive species of tick in Kansas.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Agriculture have announced the first known occurance of the Asian longhorned tick in the state. The invasive arachnid was identified last week on a dog in Frankin County in eastern Kansas.

Asian longhorned ticks have been spreading westward across the United States since they were first identified in New Jersey in 2017. Since that time, they have been identified in 21 states, now including Kansas. The tick can feed on a wide range os hosts, including livestock, pets, wildlife, and humans. It can cause serious illness in both animals and humans.

To avoid tick bites, use an EPA-approved insect repellant when in tick-heavy environments, wear hats and long sleeves and pants, and check pets for ticks.

For more tips on protecting yourself from tick bites, follow this link.

Photo: By James Gathany 

A program to incentivize people to move to small cities and rural areas is showing positive impacts for Neodesha.

Neodesha began taking part in the Make My Move program last winter. The nation-wide program offers financial incentives to workers to move to the city and work remotely. Incentives offered by the city to potential applicants include a 100% Kansas State Income Tax Waiver for the 2026 tax year, student loan repayment assistance, and a neighborhood revitalization plan for property improvements. Mayor Devin Johnson says he has seen some new faces in town thanks to the program.

Neodesha is participating in the Make My Move program in an attempt to increase the City's population. The program allows potential applicants to browse cities and programs to find the location that best suits their needs. To see the Neodesha Make My Move page, follow this link.

A police chase that began in Kansas ends in Missouri with the arrest of a suspect.

The incident began yesterday afternoon in Galena when police revived reports of a vehicle driving erratically. An officer located the vehicle and observed it run a stop sign. The officer attempted a traffic stop, but the driver fled, leaving the city and headed for rural Cherokee County. Deputies from the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office joined the pursuit as the driver continued to drive erratically by passing other cars on the shoulder. At one point, the suspect attempted to hit a Cherokee County Sheriff's vehicle head-on.

The driver eventually crossed the state line into Missouri and entered the Joplin city limits, where a tactical vehicle intervention brought the chase to an end.

The driver – identified as Walter Whitlow of Joplin – was taken into custody and transported to the Joplin City Jail. Whitlow will also face charges in Cherokee County for actions that occurred in Kansas.

There will be a candidate forum on Monday night in Parsons.

Candidates for the Parsons City Commission, the USD 503-Parsons School Board, the USD 506-Labette County Schools Board, and the Labette Community College Board of Trustees will be present at the forum to answer questions and make their positions known for voters.

Citizens can submit questions for the forum to the Parsons Chamber of Commerce. The deadline for submissions is 2pm today. Not all questions will be used.

Monday's forum begins at 5:30pm in the City Commission Room on the first floor of the Parsons Municipal Building. The public is encouraged to attend.

An 18-year-old Southwestern Oklahoma State University student missing since September 30 is found deceased.

According to the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, the body of Logan Musil was discovered on Wednesday in a wooded area near Veterans Lake near Sulphur, Oklahoma. Authorities have been investigating the disappearance of the man since he was reported missing last week. An investigation has revealed that Musil had been involved in an altercation with another student at S-W-O-S-U prior to going missing. Based on evidence, 18-year-old Cameron Lewis has been arrested in connection to the case. The suspect was booked into the Custer County Jail for murder and for transferring Musil's body to the location where it was found.

Formal charges will be determined by the U.S. District Attorney's Office for the Western District of Oklahoma because the suspect is Native American.

Musil's remains have been transferred to the medical examiner's office to determine the cause of death.

The investigation remains ongoing.

The Montgomery County Treasurer's Office and the County Tag Office in Independence will both close early today.

Both offices will close at 12:30 today to allow staff to celebrate the retirement of Montgomery County Treasurer Nancy Clubine. Friends, family, and co-workers will gather this afternoon to commemorate Clubine's 45 years of service to Montgomery County.

County offices will also be closed on Monday in observance of Columbus Day.

The Tag Office and the Treasurer's Office will both re-open at 8am on Tuesday.