During this week’s Wilson County Commission meeting, Road and Bridge Supervisor Kary Tatum announced that a new low-water bridge should be completed soon.

The bridge, located west of Chanute on K-39 between Wichita Road and Yale Road, was closed in early April due to flooding.

Tatum expects to lay concrete to complete the bridge this week. Wilson County estimates the project will cost $20,000.

In other news, Wilson County has begun working on its new budget. Kris Marple states mock-ups will be made for potential increases in county minimum wage, up to $14 and $15 per hour.

During this week’s school board meeting, Independence made three recognitions for recent achievements throughout the school district.

First, IHS had five powerlifters finish as state finalists, including Camden Pearson, who is a back-to-back state champion in girls’ bench press and power clean.

The board acknowledged IHS Theatre for winning Outstanding Overall Production at this year’s Wichita Jester Awards.

Also, kindergarten teacher Mary Swearingen was recognized as one of three semifinalists for the Region Two Teacher of the Year. Swearingen read from her speech about her passion for her work.

In other business, the Independence School Board approved the purchase of a 10-passenger, super duty van from Quality Motors of Independence for $61,612.

The Board also approved re-upping their membership in Schools for Fair Funding for the 2026-27 year.

Photo Courtesy: IndySchools Website

The City of Sedan is currently in the process of installing new grant-funded public seating.

City crews have begun the assembly and installation of new picnic tables and benches paid for by a Waste Tire Grant through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The City was awarded the $4,639 grant in March through the program that assists local governments in purchasing products made from recycled tires, such as playground surfacing, rubber mulch, or park benches. The grants are funded by revenue collected through the tire excise tax, a 25 cent per vehicle tire fee.

Photo courtesy City of Sedan

The City of Bartlesville will soon have a new Police Chief.

Deputy Police Chief Andrew Ward will become Bartlesville's new police chief when Kevin Ickleberry officially steps down from the role on July 2. Ward was offered the position following an internal application process that closed last month.

Ward began his law enforcement career working for the Kay County Detention Center in 2010. He joined the Bartlesville Police Department in 2012 where he served as a K-9 officer until 2022. Ward earned the rank of Corporal in 2018 and Sergeant in 2020. Ward was named Captain in 2022 before being promoted to Deputy Chief in 2024.

Chief Ickleberry has been on leave since December due to medical reasons, when Acting Police Chief Troy Newell stepped into the temporary role. Newell will continue as Acting Chief until Ward takes over in July.

The President of the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce is selected to lead a multi-state organization.

Coffeyville Chamber President Candi Westbrook has been chosen as the incoming Board Chair of the Missouri, Arkansas, Kansas, and Oklahoma or MAKO Chamber Conference. The move came at the group's 2026 annual conference held in April in Branson. The regional organization works to bring togther chamber professionals from the four participating states to assist in the advancement of economic and community development goals.

In her new role as Chair, Westbrook will focus on increasing participation across the four-state region, strengthening partnerships with organization sponsors, and maintaining high-quality programming for members.

Westbrook has served as President and CEO of the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce since 2017, where she focuses on business growth, community development, and strengthening Coffeyville’s economic vitality.

To learn more about the Coffeyville Chamber, follow this link

Discussions on the 2027 budget are set to get underway for the Neodesha City Commission.

On the agenda for today's meeting is an open session discussion on City finances for the 2027 budget. Commissioners will also consider bids for the purchase of transformers and for the repair of a ladder truck. There will also be a discussion of a Pathways for a Healthy Kansas Grant to fund improvements at Riverwalk Park and two Public Hearings for dangerous and unsafe structures.

Today's meeting begins at 4pm in the commission room at the Neodesha City Hall. The meeting is open to the public and will also be recorded and available for later viewing on the City's Facebook page.

One person is dead following a single vehicle accident near Olathe.

The crash occurred shortly after noon on Tuesday on I-35 just south of Olathe. A 2015 Subaru Forester driven by 43-year-old Rhiannon Rodriguez of Leavenworth was traveling southbound on the Interstate when it left the roadway to the right and drove into the ditch. The vehicle then struck a tree and a concrete embankment. The SUV then caught fire. Rodriguez died at the scene.

A nearby pedestrian attempted to pull Rodriguez from the burning vehicle, but was unsuccessful. The 33-year-old man suffered minor injuries and was taken to KU Medical Center for treatment.

New legislation to prevent the misuse of nitrous oxide – commonly known as laughing gas – is signed into law in Oklahoma.

The law known as the Maddix Bias Act  makes it a misdemeanor to possess, buy, sell or transfer nitrous oxide for the purpose of intoxication. Violators could face up to 90 days in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, or both. The new law is named in honor of Maddix Bias, a 2023 Tecumseh High School graduate and standout baseball player whose life was tragically cut short in a car crash caused by his boss, who was under the influence of nitrous oxide. The measure also will increase penalties for possession of larger quantities and for those who sell or provide nitrous oxide to minors, including potential jail time, steeper fines and suspension of business licenses.

The law goes into effect 90 days after the final adjournment of the Oklahoma Legislature, which is slated to occur tomorrow Thursday, May 14 at 5pm.

The Wilson County Commission will hold their regular weekly meting today.

On the agenda will be updates from County Coordinator Kris Marple and County Clerk Kayla Busch. Road & Bridge Director Kary Tatum will also provide a summary of current work in his department. Today's Wilson County Commission meeting begins at 9am in Room 101 at the courthouse in Fredonia. The public is invited to attend.

The City of Coffeyville is hosting a grand opening for the new and improved tennis courts at Leclere Park.

Mayor Jim Faulkner says they invite the public to attend on Friday, May 22^nd at 10:00am at the tennis courts.  City Manager Ben Brubaker says despite the courts being open construction in the area is still ongoing.

The facility will continue to carry the name Clarence Stricklan Courts, honoring the history and legacy connected to the site and the community. A ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the courts. The ceremony will also feature special guest speaker Marilyn Pruitt, daughter of Clarence Stricklan.

The Coffeyville City Commission votes to raise the rates of water.

The commission unanimously approved the first reading of an ordinance amending the rates applicable to the water utility. City Manager Ben Brubaker says last weeks incident is an example of why the the increase to help pay for cost of infrastructure improvements.  Brubaker says the rate increase will start in July of this year.

Brubaker says over 90% of customers are in the 5/8” meter size, which will see that average increase of $11.48 a month for the first year.

The Montgomery County Emergency Management Director announces his retirement and his intention to run for county commissioner.

Retiring Director Rick Whitson says the decision to retire was not an easy one.  Whitson says his time as director of emergency management will help him as a county commissioner.  Whitson says he knows the number one issue for residents is taxes.

Whitson's official retirement date is June 1^st, which is also the last day to register to run for office in Kansas. Whitson would be running for the District One seat on the county commission, which is currently held by Robert Bever.

The USD 445 Board of Education hears an update on Energy Management from Navitas.

Energy Manager Nicci Williams says they monitor total electric, electric used and gas.  Williams says they exceeded the expected amount of savings in the first year.

The utility usage that was measured for the first year of this programs was from October 1, 2024 to September 30, 2025. In other business, the board updated a number of policies as well as approved new hires including a new Ag Teacher.

Construction will start soon on a storm shelter in South Coffeyville.

At last night's school board meeting, Superintendent Daryl Pruter shared an update on a new storm shelter that will be built with $93,000 in grant funding. Pruter says the shelter will be built near the elementary school.

Pruter says construction will start as soon as school is out and should be completed by the end of the summer. The shelter will also be available for the community to use after school hours.

In other business, the board voted to hire non-certified personnel for the upcoming school year, and discussed plans for graduation, which is this Friday at 7 p.m.

The Independence High School Theater Department invites the public to attend the Rising Stars Cabaret tonight at IHS.

The evening will features performances from the IHS Jester Award winning production of The Addams Family: School Edition. Awards will also be given for the 12^th Annual IHS Drama Club Indy Awards. The program begins at 7pm at the IHS Performing Arts Center. Admission is free.

A South Coffeyville man is killed in UTV rollover accident last night.

The Oklahoma Highway Patrol says 37-year-old Jared T. Zellmer was driving a 2021 Can-Am Maverick on County Road NS-416, just south of County Road EW-3 in Nowata County at around 6:45 last night when the UTV rolled over. Troopers say he was ejected and partially pinned under the vehicle.

Zellmer was taken to Coffeyville Regional Medical Center where he later died from his injuries. A passenger in the UTV was uninjured.

An effort to recall the Bourbon County Clerk is underway after a ballot error affecting the USD 235 school board election last fall.

Residents of Bourbon County have begun circulating a petition calling for the recall of County Clerk Susan Walker. At issue is a printing error in which incorrect ballots were issued for the school district election. After contacting the Kansas Secretary of State about the problem, new ballots were printed and mail-in voters were allowed to re-vote. However, 52 early voters were unable to re-vote.

In order to trigger a recall election, the petition must gather at least signatures totaling 40% of the votes cast. Organizers have until July 26^th to gather the signatures required.

A commission in Osage County, Oklahoma, passes away after a long illness.

District Three Commissioner Charlie Cartwright passed away early yesterday (Monday) morning due to health complications.

Cartwright had served in that position since January 2023. Prior to serving as county commissioner, Cartwright worked as a police officer for the Fairfax Police Department and beginning in 1997 he was hired on at the Osage County Jail where he worked his way up to Investigator. 

Osage County District Attorney Mike Fisher first met Cartwright in 2011. Fisher has worked in Oklahoma and Tulsa County, but said Cartwright is possibly the best Investigator he has worked with. Fisher says Cartwright was always willing to give credit to others.

Funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

The Nowata School Board gets an update on recent attendance numbers.

Nowata Public Schools have seen a recent decline in attendance. Reasons for the decline include students either transferring to another school or transitioning to homeschooling.

During Monday's meeting of the Nowata Board of Education, board members and Superintendent Dr. Mindy Englett discussed the term "unschooling." the term refers to a more informal approach to teaching, where the student can learn through real-life experiences rather than traditional, structured lessons. Dr. Englett says accountability is an issue.

The State of Oklahoma sought ways to cater to student needs with a change in their overall model at the high school level. Recent changes allow students to pick their pathway and the courses required to graduate on that course of study.

Independence Police arrest two people in separate incidents last week.

The first incident occurred on Tuesday, May 5^th, when officers were called to the 200 block of North Penn Avenue for a reported fight in progress. Officers arrived on the scene and, following an investigation arrested 32-year-old Tyrone Walton. Walton faces multiple charges including Criminal threat, Causing Terror, and Felony Possession of Marijuana.

The second incident happened on Friday evening, May 8^th. At around 11pm that night, officers were dispatched to the 800 block of North Penn for reports of three juveniles making threats involving firearms in backpacks. 18-year-old Tristan Cartwright was arrested and faces charges of Aggravated Assault with a Deadly Weapon, Criminal Use of a Weapon, and Aggravated Endangerment of a Child. Both men were booked into the Montgomery County Jail in Independence.

Photo: Tyrone Walton (left), Tristan Cartwright (right)

Water rates will once again be a topic of discussion at tonight's Coffeyville City Commission meeting.

The City has determined that in order to deal with infrastructure needs in the coming decades, including a new water plant, City revenue will need to increase. This will likely mean that water rates will go up. Currently, Coffeyville customers pay less for water than nearby cities of comparable size, including Independence, Parsons, Iola, and Chanute. If approved, the increase would go into effect in July.

Commissioners will discuss the City's options at tonight's meeting that 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.

The Kansas Department of Transportation announces that work on the railroad overpass in Coffeyville is now complete.

US-166/US-169 under the South Kansas and Oklahoma Railroad bridge in Coffeyville is now open to traffic, according to KDOT. The repair work began on April 10 to repair the bridge crossing with the work and street closure taking place on weekends. Traffic will now be open on the weekends once again.

For road conditions across the state, visit kandrive.gov or call 5-1-1.

Photo: City crews install mural on the railroad bridge. Photo is courtesy of the City of Coffeyville

A 19-year-old Hutchinson woman dies in a crash on K-96.

The accident occurred Monday afternoon around 4:15 near the intersection of Trail West Road or about 3 miles south of South Hutchinson. A semi truck was legally parked on the shoulder of K-96 and was approached by a northbound Dodge Durango driven by 19-year-old Nathan Pfannenstiel of Hutchinson. The driver veered onto the should and struck the parked semi. The collision caused fatal injuries to a passenger in the Durango, 19-year-old Baylee Flynn. She was pronounced deceased later that evening at Wichita's Wesley Medical Center.

The Kansas Corporation Commission will hold a public hearing tonight in Columbus to give Liberty utility customers the opportunity to learn more about the company’s rate increase request, ask questions and make comments.

Liberty Utilities has filed an application with the Commission requesting to increase customer electric rates by $15.8 million to recover costs for investments made to update aging infrastructure, modernize its customer service technology, and strengthen the system against extreme weather and other challenges.

If approved in full, the increase will be phased in over a three-year period. Kansas customers with average usage would see their monthly bill increase $11.88 in the first year, $21.28 in the second year, and another $21.28 in the third year. The proposed total bill after three years would be approximately $189.83, a 40% increase in the total bill.

The public hearing will be held at the Columbus High School Auditorium located at 124 South High School Avenue in Columbus beginning at 6 p.m. The hearings will also be broadcast live on the KCC’s YouTube channel and recorded for later viewing. Liberty Utilities has customers in southeast Kansas in Labette and Cherokee counties.

A few storms are possible tonight for the four-state area.

Storms are expected to develop along a southward moving cold front this evening between 5 and 10 p.m.

The Flint Hills into southeast Kansas will have the best chance to see a storm or two.

Hail up to golf ball size along with 60 mph winds will be possible with the stronger storms. Stay tuned to The Mighty 690 for severe weather updates if needed.

Quarterly reports were on the agenda for the Montgomery County Commission this morning.

The meeting started with back to back executive sessions before the commission got to their regular agenda items. The board approved a request to send out bids for a remodel at the Department of Corrections. Captain of Corrections Chad Dunham says the remodel is strictly cosmetic.

In other business, the commission heard quarterly reports from Juvenile Corrections Director Kenneth Fecke and County Clerk Amy Standridge. The commission also approved the mileage reimbursement rate to be raised from 70 cents to 72.5 cents. This is the same rate that was raised federally.

Coffeyville Community College celebrates their 101^st graduating class.

Chair of the CCC Board of Trustees Becky Barnhart welcomed those in attendance as she says they come together to mark this significant milestone in the lives of their students.  Former Red Raven Football Player and Super Bowl Champion Slyvester “Sly” Williams gave the commencement address. He says his time at CCC taught him to give all he had.

Williams told the graduating class that they are just at the start of their journey and have an amazing foundation from CCC. He says to envision what they want their futures to look like and to realize the decisions that make now will have an impact on that.

One person is injured in a two-vehicle crash on U.S. 169 in Neosho County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash happened just after 10:00am Friday morning on southbound U.S. 169 at 150^th Road. Troopers say both vehicles were traveling south when a 2009 Kia Spectra entered the right turn lane and then attempted to turn left onto 150^th Road. A southbound semi truck then sideswiped the Kia.

The driver of the Kia, 31-year-old Brittany Nicole Spears of Neodesha, was taken to Neosho Memorial Hospital with suspected minor injuries. An infant passenger in the vehicle was reportedly uninjured and properly restrained in a child safety seat. The driver of the semi, 66-year-old Gilbert Michael Perry of Hennessey, Oklahoma, was not injured in the crash.

Four juveniles are injured in a rollover crash northeast of Girard in Crawford County.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, the crash happened just after midnight at 150^th Street and K-47. Troopers say a 2006 Jeep Liberty driven by a 16-year-old of Girard was southbound on 150^th Street when the vehicle left the roadway to the right, struck a culvert, and rolled over twice before coming to rest upright.

The driver was taken to Girard Medical Center with suspected serious injuries. Three passengers, two 15-year-olds and a 13-year-old also of Girard, were transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Troopers reported two occupants were not wearing seatbelts at the time of the crash. District 4 Fire personnel, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office, Girard Police Department, Crawford County EMS and the Kansas Highway Patrol all responded to the scene.

Several area high school students graduated this weekend, including those in Sedan, Cherryvale and Neodesha.

A total of 44 students graduated Saturday afternoon in Neodesha, and KGGF broadcast the graduation ceremony, courtesy of The City of Neodesha and TLC Outdoor Power. Class Valedictorian Nathan Smith spoke during the ceremony, and says Neodesha is a special place.

Smith came to Neodesha sophomore year and says he quickly became part of the community.

Coming up this week, KGGF will broadcast the Field Kindley, Caney, LCHS and Independence graduations live on Saturday and Sunday.

Listen to the full Neodesha graduation here.

Last month, Governor Laura Kelly signed SB 82, a legislative tax package creating a five-cent-per-gallon income tax credit for fuel retailers selling E15 or higher ethanol blends.

Kansas Corn CEO Josh Roe says about one third of Kansas corn production goes into ethanol production.  Roe says most of the gas sold in Kansas is a E10 or 10% blend.

This incentive, aimed at boosting demand for Kansas-grown corn and sorghum, runs from 2026 through 2028 and is capped at $2.5 million annually.

A Pryor woman is killed in a single-vehicle crash in Mayes County.

According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, 23-year-old Sarah Desautell was driving westbound on East 620 Road near South 442 Road around 7:45pm yesterday evening, when her vehicle left the roadway to the left, struck a fence and then hit a tree before coming to rest.

Desautell was pronounced dead at scene from injuries sustained in the crash. Troopers reported she was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the collision. The crash remains under investigation.

The Montgomery County Commission meets this morning with executive sessions, quarterly reports and several county business items on the agenda.

Commissioners are scheduled to hold two executive sessions involving non-elected personnel, including county administration staff and representatives from the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. New business includes a request for sealed bids to remodel the Department of Corrections building, quarterly reports from the county clerk, counselor and appraiser and discussion of a resolution involving KBI cereal malt beverage licenses. Commissioners are also expected to review the federal mileage reimbursement rate.

Additional agenda items include end-of-month reporting from the Register of Deeds office and signatures related to cereal malt beverage license notices for the Caney Golf Club and Caney Valley Speedway. The commission meets this morning at 9:00am in the Commission Room in the lower level of the Judicial Center.

The USD 445 Board of Education meets this afternoon with several items on the agenda, including handbook changes, policy updates, technology renewals and personnel matters.

Board members will consider proposed changes to student handbooks for the 2026-2027 school year along with a number of policy updates and revisions. The board is also expected to discuss renewing the district’s Lightspeed Filter and Classroom Management contract for just over $34,000 and purchasing more than $58,000 in classroom furniture for Roosevelt Middle School sixth grade classrooms.

Personnel items include several resignations, one retirement, and recommendations for new hires, including elementary teachers and a new agriculture instructor at Field Kindley High School. The meeting begins at 4:00pm at the district office.

Bartlesville firefighters contain an early morning house fire.

Early yesterday morning, fire crews arrived to find heavy fire conditions in the attic with flames extending through the roof. Firefighters launched an interior attack while conducting a primary search to confirm all residents had evacuated safely. Crews also cut multiple ventilation holes in the damaged roof to reach smoldering insulation and rafters and to reduce smoke and heat damage inside the home.

The residents were inside the home when the fire began but were alerted by neighbors who noticed the fire. No injuries were reported among residents or firefighters.

Four fire crews remained on scene for about three hours to bring the fire under control, complete overhaul operations and extinguish hidden hot spots. The department credited firefighters’ quick response with preventing major fire, smoke and water damage to at least half of the residence. Officials also thanked neighbors for alerting the family and helping ensure everyone escaped safely.

Officials with the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo are warning of a potential vendor scam.

Organizers say they've been made aware of unauthorized vendor solicitation emails being sent regarding the 2026 Inter-State Fair & Rodeo. They remind potential vendors that official vendor applications and communication will only come from official Inter-State Fair & Rodeo channels, and they do not use person Gmail account for vendor communications.

If you receive suspicious messages, please do not send payment or personal information. If you have questions about whether a vendor opportunity is legitimate, please contact the fair directly via the official Facebook page or official fair contacts.

The Inter-State Fair and Rodeo is on the way August 9th - 15th in Coffeyville.

The Independence Fire Department responds to a house fire overnight.

Just before 2 a.m. Saturday morning, crews responded to the 600 block of N 17^th in Independence to a report of a structure fire.

Upon arrival fire personnel found a single story residence with heavy smoke and fire showing. An aggressive interior attack was performed and the fire was quickly under control. Search of the residence found no one inside, and the fire is currently under investigation by Independence Fire/EMS and the Independence Police Department.

Photo: Independence Fire/EMS

Several area high schools are having graduation ceremonies this weekend.

Among them are Cherryvale and Sedan, which will hold graduation at 10 a.m. on Saturday, May 9th.  Neodesha will also hold graduation on Saturday at 2 p.m.  The Neodesha graduation ceremony will be broadcast live on Classic Hits 104.1, KGGF, courtesy of the City of Neodesha and TLC Outdoor Power. 

Next weekend, KGGF staff will broadcast the Field Kindley Graduation on The Mighty 690, Labette County High School on US 98 and Caney on Sonshine 98.9.  All those graduations on May 16th start at 10 a.m.  Finally, Independence High School graduation will be on Sunday, May 17th and will be broadcast on Sonshine 98.9 at 1 p.m.

Coffeyville Community College students will also graduate this weekend, with Independence Community College Next Weekend.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday night in Bourbon County involving deputies from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.

The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office requested KBI assistance at approximately 11:40 p.m. Thursday, May 7. KBI agents responded to the scene.  

Late Thursday evening, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a stolen semi-truck traveling northbound from Pittsburg. The vehicle was reported to be driving into oncoming traffic and fleeing from local law enforcement.

Crawford County deputies pursued the vehicle after the driver refused an attempted traffic stop. During the pursuit, the suspect continued to drive the wrong way in the southbound lanes. Deputies attempted to disable the vehicle but were unsuccessful.

As the pursuit continued into Bourbon County, two Crawford County deputies discharged their firearms, striking the suspect and vehicle. The suspect lost control of the vehicle near Highway 69 and Indian Road and was taken into custody.

The suspect was treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a regional medical center and is now in stable condition. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.  The investigation into the incident remains ongoing.

***** Update 4 p.m. *****

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued for the following areas through 10 p.m.

KANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

CHAUTAUQUA           CHEROKEE            CRAWFORD
ELK                  LABETTE             MONTGOMERY
NEOSHO               WILSON

OKLAHOMA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

ATOKA                BLAINE              BRYAN
CADDO                CANADIAN            CARTER
CHEROKEE             CLEVELAND           COAL
COMANCHE             COTTON              CRAIG
CREEK                CUSTER              DELAWARE
DEWEY                GARFIELD            GARVIN
GRADY                HUGHES              JEFFERSON
JOHNSTON             KAY                 KINGFISHER
KIOWA                LINCOLN             LOGAN
LOVE                 MAJOR               MARSHALL
MAYES                MCCLAIN             MCINTOSH
MURRAY               MUSKOGEE            NOBLE
NOWATA               OKFUSKEE            OKLAHOMA
OKMULGEE             OSAGE               OTTAWA
PAWNEE               PAYNE               PITTSBURG
PONTOTOC             POTTAWATOMIE        ROGERS
SEMINOLE             STEPHENS            TILLMAN
TULSA                WAGONER             WASHINGTON
WASHITA

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

There is a slight chance of severe weather this afternoon and evening for the four-state area.

The best chance for strong storms will be in northeast Oklahoma and counties in Kansas along the Oklahoma state line. Hail and strong winds will be the primary threats, although a tornado or two cannot be ruled out. Timing is most likely between 5 and 9 p.m. KGGF will provide severe weather coverage tonight if needed.

Erie City Clerk Jessica Altman is facing felony charges due to allegations involving the theft of City funds.

According to the City of Erie, Altman was terminated from her position on Wednesday, May 6^th and arrested in connection to an investigation into missing funds belonging to the City of Erie. The investigation is ongoing and is being conducted by the Neosho County Sheriff's Office.

There are 42 different kinds of snakes in the State of Kansas, but only seven of them are venomous.

K-State Extension Wildlife Specialist Drew Ricketts says some of those snakes are more common than others.  Ricketts says the best thing to do when encountering a snake is to just leave it alone.

Warmer weather means snake sightings can increase around creeks, ponds, brush piles, barns and rocky areas. Wear boots when walking in tall grass or wooded areas and watch where you place your hands around rocks, wood piles or brush.

The Sedan City Council discusses the opening date for the City Swimming Pool.

At this week's meeting, council members examined the pool's finances. Mayor Kathy Miller says the pool plans to once again seek sponsors to allow kids to swim at no cost.

Miller also praised the pool management. She says employees have been very judicious with their use of expensive pool chemicals.

Council members approved the pool opening date for May 23. The hours of operation will remain the same as last summer.

A fuel spill in Dearing causes travel disruptions.

Yesterday afternoon, a fuel spill was reported at the C&K Gas Station in Dearing. Eyewittnesses report around 300 gallons of diesel spilled from the station, where work was being done. CR 2000 was blocked at 3900 during the cleanup. The Coffeyville Hazmat team responded to the incident. More details will be released as they become available.

The Coffevyille Public Library is challenging the community to read 6,000 books this summer.

Library Director Rachel Koszalka says that the community exceeded last year's goal of 5,000 books.

Koszalka says every book read counts, even kids' books read multiple times.

Koszalka says for every book a teen or adult reads, they will get an entry into the summer reading grand prize, which is a Garmin health monitor. Visiting one of the Little Free Libraries around town will also earn an entry. Summer reading for adults and kids will officially kick off next month.

Gas prices are continuing to trend upward heading into the Memorial Day travel period.

Even with those trends, Kansas and Oklahoma are still among the cheaper states in the country right now. AAA reports the Kansas average is sitting around $3.99 a gallon, up roughly 35 cents from a week ago and Oklahoma is sitting at around $3.89 a gallon up 25 cents from a week ago. Nationally, prices have climbed even faster, with the average now above $4.50 a gallon. Analysts say global oil supply concerns tied to tensions in the Middle East are driving much of the increase. GasBuddy analysts are warning Kansas could average around $4 a gallon statewide by Memorial Day if oil market instability continues.

For southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma, that likely means drivers will notice prices continuing to inch upward over the next couple of weeks, especially along heavier travel corridors and near highways. Even so, Oklahoma and Kansas remain among the least expensive fuel markets in the nation.

South Coffeyville Public Schools is looking for donations to help create an indoor playground space for students.

The school is collecting toys and games through June 30^th for use during rainy days and cold weather. Organizers say donated items should be appropriate for children ages 4 and older. Requested donations include dress-up costumes, Legos, board games, puzzles, bean bags, dry erase markers, step stools and educational games focused on subjects like math and reading. The school says it already has plenty of books, board games, blocks and a play kitchen.

Cash and check donations are also being accepted and will go toward additional items for the indoor playground. Donations can be dropped off at the elementary office.

The Nowata County OSU Extension Office is hosting an open house today from 11:00am to 1:00pm.

Community members are invited to meet staff, learn more about Extension programs and services, and explore resources available through the office. Light refreshments will be provided, and the event is open to the public.

Organizers say the open house is designed to give residents an opportunity to connect with Extension staff and learn more about services offered to the community.

A Bartlesville man is facing a felony charge after allegedly possessing nearly a pound of methamphetamine.

43-year-old Kyle Fugate was charged with trafficking illegal drugs. According to the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, authorities performed a traffic stop on a vehicle at a Bartlesville Burger King. After a positive K9 alert, authorities located a backpack in the backseat floorboard. The backpack contained 379 grams of methamphetamine.

Fugate pleaded guilty in 2014 to two counts of felony drug charges and has been previously convicted of second-degree burglary. He will appear in court again on May 15^th at 9:00am. He posted a $100,000 bond

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

19-year-old Antniou Gomez was charged with felony DUI and misdemeanor charges of transporting an opened container of an alcoholic beverage and driving without a valid driver's license. According to the Bartlesville Police Department, Gomez was stopped by police after swerving into the wrong way of traffic and striking a patrol vehicle. Once authorities approached Gomez, they noticed multiple indicators that he was intoxicated.

Gomez provided a breathalyzer test result of 0.24 blood alcohol content. He will appear in court again on June 5^th at 9:00am. He posted a $5,000 bond.

With Memorial Day travel season approaching, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office is reminding drivers to buckle up as part of the national Click It or Ticket campaign.

Law enforcement agencies across Kansas and the country will increase patrols from May 17^th through June 1^st in an effort to encourage seat belt use and reduce serious injuries and fatalities on the roadways. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, seat belts help keep drivers and passengers secure inside a vehicle during a crash. Those not wearing a seat belt are at a much higher risk of being ejected, which is an outcome that is often deadly.

Officials also remind motorists to wear seat belts properly, with the shoulder belt across the chest and the lap belt across the hips, and to make sure children are secured in age-appropriate restraints.

The Coffeyville Community College Quiz Bowl finishes 4th at the state tournament in Salina.

Team members Jaci Wood, Cai Beaubien, Conner Rexwinkle, Isaiah Jennings and Trinity Lippert competed in the opening rounds, earning an early victory over Independence before facing tough matchups against Garden City and eventual state champion Cowley.

The team gained momentum Saturday with the return of captain Morgan Lasco, winning every round of the day to climb the standings. One of the closest contests came against Seward County, with the match decided by just one question. CCC’s strong finish earned the program a 4th-place team plaque, while Wood also received a 5th-place individual medal for answering the fifth-most tossup questions during the tournament.

The Coffeyville Boys and Girls Club receives a grant from the Bartlesville Regional United Way.

On Thursday morning, the United Way celebrated raising nearly $2.5 million in donations to assist 13 partner agencies in Washington and Nowata Counties as well as southeast Kansas.

Community partners were recognized in the Lyon Gallery at The Center in Bartlesville, with a spotlight on 16 programs that received RISE grants. Among the recipients was the Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Kansas, receiving money for an audio room that will allow students to explore audio and music production through digital media. The Club also received money for a community garden expansion.

A full list of awards and grants are available here:

Groundbreaker Award

ConocoPhillips

Cornerstone Award

Phillips 66

Pillar Award

QuikTrip

Foundation Award

Truity Credit Union

Arvest Bank

Ignite Award

ChevronPhillips

Spark Award

Oklahoma Natural Gas

Blue Sky Bio

United is the Way Award

Bartlesville Public Schools

RISE Grants

Bartlesville Art Association

Boys and Girls Club of Bartlesville

Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Kansas

CASA of Northeast Oklahoma

Cherokee Area Council Scouting America

City Compassion

CONCERN

George Miksch Sutton Avian Research Center

Girl Scouts of Eastern Oklahoma

Lenape Native American Foundation

Nehemiah Community Development Corporation

Pawhuska Ministerial Alliance

Ray of Hope Advocacy Center

Samaritan Counseling and Growth Center

Young Scholars of Bartlesville

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Oklahoma

The Chanute Fire Department is currently responding to a structure fire on 11th Street between Highland and Santa Fe.

They are asking people to avoid the area to prevent interference.

The fire is also causing disruptions to Chanute Fiber services. Customers will receive updates on the status of repairs.

Oklahoma tax revenues grow substantially from March to April.

The Oklahoma State Treasurer’s Office released the April State Tax Revenue Report yesterday, showing increases in almost all areas.

 Total monthly collections reached $2.5 billion, up 76.1% from March and 23.2% higher than April 2025. Over the past 12 months, Oklahoma collected $17.8 billion, an increase of $894 million, or 5.3%, compared to the prior year.

 The state’s 12-month trend has bounced back, after a dip in revenues in February and March. The rolling 12-month total has shown a sharp increase in April, indicating strong momentum and a more robust revenue trajectory heading into the second quarter.

 Income Tax collections were up by 105.9%, while the Sales & Use Tax grew by 10%. Gross Production Taxes increased slightly by 1.2%. The only decline was in Motor Vehicle Taxes, which were down 3.2%.

 Oklahoma's Unemployment rate was 3.9%, compared to 4.3% nationally.

 A link to he complete April 2026 Tax Revenue Report is available here.

Sheriff's Deputies in the western Kansas county of Hodgeman chase down escaped cattle after a semi truck overturns on a rural road.

The cattle-hauling semi overturned on 214 Road just north of K-156, or about 25 miles north of Dodge City. Several of the cattle managed to escape from the truck and fled into the nearby fields. Deputies searched in a three-mile radius from the accident.

Deputies advised that non-local traffic needs to follow road construction signs and stay off county roads.

Photo courtesy Hodgeman County Sheriff's Department

Prosecutors in Barton County, Kansas, file a motion to charge a 14-year-old Great Bend boy as an adult.

The boy was arrested last month as the main suspect in the death of another 14-year-old Rubi Perez. Perez was reported missing on April 8^th after attending a class at a nearby school. Her body was found the next day behind a nearby dirt pile. The suspect was arrested soon after.

Barton County authorities have released little information on the case, including the cause of death.

A hearing for the motion for adult prosecution has been set for August 26 and 27.

Emergency crews in Bates County, Missouri rescue a boater who fell into the water.

Just before 2pm yesterday, the Bates County Sheriff's Office along with Bates County EMS, the Butler Fire Department and the Rich Hill Fire Department were called to an area in the Peabody Conservation area, located about 17 miles north of Nevada. Reports indicated that an individual had fallen out of a boat and was clinging to a tree in the water.

A firefighter and a deputy hiked to the victim's location and rendered aid until a rescue team from the Butler Fire Department arrived via boat. The individual was successfully pulled from the water and brought to shore without further incident.

Photo courtesy Rich Hill Fire Department

Montgomery County chooses a consulting firm to lead the process of creating a new County comprehensive plan.

The County issued an Request for Proposals or R-F-P last month in order to find a consulting firm to take the lead in writing the new plan. County Administrator Jonathan Booe says staff has been taking a close look at the proposals.

The comprehensive plan is the county’s long-term blueprint for balancing growth, development, and preservation so the community develops in a way that matches local goals and priorities. This new version is expected to include regulations for zoning in Montgomery County. Booe says a decision has been made based on the R-F-Ps.

The company is expected to complete their work by September 2027.

The City of Coffeyville unveils its new power outage communication system

Outifi.

The new text messaging system will help streamline how outages are reported to the City and improve transparency by keeping residents informed in real time during outages. Residents will be notified of outages by a message sent to the primary phone number listed on their utility bill account. Customers are asked to ensure their contact information is up to date, and to be advised that they can add a secondary number to receive alerts as well.

You can find the live power outage map on the City website: www.coffeyville.com

Click on the “How to Report a Power Outage and Water Leak” button to view the outage map.

To update your information:

Email: utilitybilling@coffeyville.com

or

Call: 620-252-6100

The City of Independence will be conducting a disaster response drill today.

The drill will begin at 12:45 and will last for approximately one hour. During the drill, there may be a reduced traffic flow or the temporary closure of the street in the 200 block of West Myrtle to allow emergency personnel to safely stage and operate. Also expected is simulated smoke and simulated patients in the parking lot area along West Laurel as part of the exercise. Residents are asked to avoid that area during the drill.

This activity is only a training exercise and there is no cause for alarm. The exercise is part of the City’s ongoing commitment, in partnership with Labette Health, to enhance emergency preparedness, evaluate response procedures, and ensure a coordinated approach to various emergency scenarios.

Anyone with questions should contact Assistant City Manager David Cowan at 620-332-2528

Tax receipts for the State of Kansas in April come in above estimates.

The total tax receipts last month came in at $1.4 billion. That number is 2.3% or about $31 million above estimates. Receipts were also 4% higher than April 2025. Individual income rose in April, driving the higher-than-projected numbers. Individual taxes were nearly $32 million or 4.1% above expectations while corporate tax receipts fell. Those receipts were $237 million or 1.3% below estimates and 25% less than a year ago.

“Total April tax collections returned as projected, though this month’s report indicates the continued softening of corporate income tax collections, significantly missing the mark,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We must remain vigilant and continue to keep an eye on this to ensure Kansas has a solid fiscal foundation in the years ahead.”   

To see the full report for April, go here.

The largest single-day food drive in the nation is coming up this weekend.

The Letter Carriers' Stamp out Hunger Food Drive will be this Saturday. Local letter carriers in Coffeyville, Independence, Caney, Fredonia and Parsons will all be participating.

To donate to the food drive, simply place non-perishable food next to your mailbox on Saturday and your letter carrier will take care of the rest. Donations will be brought to local food banks.

The annual food drive has been going on since 1993.

Field Kindley High School's Baccalaureate is this weekend. Grace Fellowship Pastor Doug Mund says the whole community is invited to attend.

This is the third straight year of hosting a Baccalaureate ceremony for FKHS Seniors after not having the event for several years. The event is at the FKHS auditorium and it starts at 7:00pm.

Two road improvement projects along Highway 59 in Parsons have officially been completed.

According to the Kansas Department of Transportation, work began in September on portions of North and South 16^th Street. One project reconstructed a stretch of North 16^th Street near Walmart, while the second focused on South 16^th Street near the Little Labette Creek bridge. Most of the construction work has now wrapped up and barricades have been removed, although contractors still have a few remaining tasks to finish that are not expected to impact traffic. Mission Construction of St. Paul served as the contractor on the nearly $3,000,000 project.

KDOT is reminding drivers to stay alert in work zones and obey all posted signs. Current road conditions are available through KanDrive or by calling 511.

The Parsons Police Department responds to a reported threat made toward Parsons High School.

According to PPD, officers responded to the school around 1:30pm this afternoon, after a caller threatened to shoot up the high school. Authorities say similar threats were also reported at schools in Oswego and Fort Scott. The school was briefly placed on lockdown while officers secured the building and perimeter. Students were later allowed to move between classes but were instructed to remain inside the building as officers continued checking the campus.

Police say the State Fusion Center notified agencies that multiple threats were being reported across Kansas, and at this time there is no evidence the threat is credible.

The Wilson County Commission discusses the future of their shared juvenile detention facility at this week’s meeting.

Montgomery County is threatening to withdraw from using the facility. Wilson County Coordinator Kris Marple says this development has delayed the county's budget.

Wilson County has faced this issue before. Previously, Linn County withdrew from the juvenile detention facility. Wilson made up the difference by recruiting counties as far as Butler, Sumner, and Cowley.

Marple believes that even if Montgomery County pulls out, the financial hardship would only be temporary.

In other business, Wilson County approved $22,000 for a contract with McCully and Associates for consulting services. They will assist the County appraiser with final estimates for county properties.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation arrests a Rooks County man for manufacturing methamphetamine.

According to the KBI, 63-year-old Richard E. Beck of Stockton, KS, was arrested on Monday, May 4. State agents began an investigation into Beck's activities afetr a request from the Rooks County Sheriff's Office in April. The investigation revealed that Beck had allegedly purchased methamphetamine precursor chemicals and stole anhydrous ammonia in order to manufacture methamphetamine.

Beck was booked into the Rooks County Jail in Stockton where he faces charges of  unlawful manufacturing of methamphetamine, unlawful possession of anhydrous ammonia, possession of pseudoephedrine with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia with the intent to manufacture methamphetamine, and possession of marijuana.

The City of Coffeyville issues a response to a recent social media controversy.

City Manager Ben Brubaker addressed the issue in a Facebook post. He spoke about questions raised by the public about the City's participation in the 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Brubaker says that by taking part in the program, the City has a part in how federal agents interact in the community.

Brubaker emphasizes that that decision is made by a federal authority, not the City of Coffeyville. He says the job of Coffeyville Police is to enforce local laws.

Brubaker also emphasizes the City's support for C-P-D.

The full version of Brubaker's statement can be seen on the City of Coffeyville Facebook page.

A Cowley County man is dead after entering a watershed area to save a calf.

Cowley County Sheriff's deputies responded to a report of a missing person around 2:45 yesterday morning near the City of Silverdale. The missing man – identified as John Kanelakos – was reported missing after a property owner found his truck still running. A dive team would locate the missing man's body later that morning. The investigation into the drowning remains ongoing.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment updates the health advisory for several lakes due to blue-green algae.

Lakes with active Warnings are King Lake on Lyon County and Lake Afton in Sedgwick County. This status means that a hazardous algae bloom or H-A-B is present or expected. Council Grove Lake in Morris County is in Watch status while all advisories for the Frontenac City Lake in Crawford County have been lifted.

A HAB may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Toxins from such blooms can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact. Kansans should remain vigilant while engaging in activities taking place in or on the water, such as swimming, boating, and fishing.

The recent tornado warnings across the area have prompted many cities to revisit the issue of storm shelters.

At this week's meeting of the Parsons City Commission, City Manager Jeff Cantrell raised the issue. Currently, the four public schools in Parsons are available as shelters in severe weather. Cantrell says he recently spoke with USD 503 Superintendent Lori Perkins about the use of the shelters.

Cantrell says building new shelters would be very expensive for the City.

During the recent storms, some Parsons residents sought shelter at the Parsons Municipal Building. Cantrell says, that building is not adequate for shelter.

No action was taken on the issue.

In other business, commissioners approved $5,000 for the Safe Haven Outreach Mission from the D.V. Reed fund and also set the date for a Public Hearing for the demolition for 8 structures for July 2.

The Nowata City Commission considers a proposal for the purchase of land.

At Monday's meeting, commissioners discussed several requests, including one for six acres. The individuals requesting to purchase the land says they wish to start a wrecker service with the land and hire employees. City Attorney John Heskett says more details are needed before a decision can be made.

All purchase requests were tabled.

The Nowata City Commission will meet again on June 1 at the Nowata Fire Department.

An Oklahoma Union High School senior wins the 2026 Patriot Auto Student of the Year.

Amina Washington received the award last night from our sister stations at Bartlesville Radio. Washington won a 2026 Chevy Trax with tag, tax and title paid; and a $10,000 annual scholarship for four years from Oklahoma Wesleyan University.

She is the FCCLA state vice president of community service and volleyball captain at Oklahoma Union. Washington leads service and safety campaigns, works at Braum’s in Coffeyville and plans to study journalism at the University of Missouri for a public service career.

Washington says she is grateful to the people in her life that helped her get to this point, especially her grandparents.

Bartlesville's Jackson Boudreaux and Nowata's Mashayla Brown were named first and second runners-up respectively, each winning scholarship awards.

The ConocoPhillips STEM Student of the Year was Bartlesville's Griffin Salerno, who received a $5,000 scholarship and Copan's Sam Thornton received the $1,000 Sutton Center Conservation Hero Award.

Bartlesville's Kelsie Yales was named the Female Athlete of the Year and Copan's Teegan Caron was named the Male Athlete of the Year.

The winners were part of a group of 55 high school seniors who were recognized Tuesday evening during the 10th annual Patriot Auto Night of Scholars and Champions held at Oklahoma Wesleyan University. In all, more than $633,000 in scholarships and prizes were awarded.

An Independence Police Department drug investigation leads to two arrests and the seizure of drugs and a firearm.

Officers executed a search warrant at a home in the 900 block of East Poplar after developing probable cause that illegal drugs were being distributed from the residence. When officers arrived, the occupants exited the home and were identified as Billie Jean Love and Dominique Derrel Darkis, along with three minor children. During the search, officers recovered about two pounds of marijuana, along with methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA and various prescription medications not stored in labeled containers. Investigators also seized drug paraphernalia and a firearm.

Darkis faces multiple recommended charges including distribution of hallucinogenic drugs, possession with intent to distribute near a school and criminal use of a weapon. Love faces recommended charges including possession of controlled substances and drug paraphernalia. The case remains under investigation.

Coffeyville Community College announces its keynote speaker for the 2026 commencement ceremony.

CCC Alumnus Sylvester “Sly” Williams will address graduates on Saturday. Williams, a former first-round NFL Draft pick and Super Bowl champion, began his collegiate career at Coffeyville before earning a scholarship to the University of North Carolina and going on to play nearly a decade in the NFL.

Since retiring from football, Williams has transitioned into entrepreneurship, real estate investing and leadership development. He is the founder of Champ Group Consulting, where he works with organizations to build strong cultures and develop leaders. Graduation starts at 10:00am at Nellis Hall.

Josh Shields is named Interim Cherryvale Police Chief after the resignation of Jimmy Holt.

At Monday's meeting, Assistant Police Chief Josh Shields was appointed police chief for a period not to exceed six months until a new chief can be hired. Holt tendered his resignation last Friday to become Assistant Chief with the Independence Police Department.

The Council also approved the purchase of three used police vehicles for a total cost up to $35,000. Sheilds says they are having problems with many of their vehicles, which are spending a lot of time in the shop.

In other business, a discussion on city storm shelters took place. Cherryvale Resident Brook Austin also spoke before the Council, expressing concerns on government accountability and the city's direction as leadership positions are filled.

The Council also gave approval to spend up to $20,000 to switch back to the previous gWorks public works software the city had been using after problems were encountered with the current vendor.

The Caney City Council made three appointments at this week's meeting. Last night, they filled vacancies of a City Council seat, a Municipal Judge, and a seat on the Planning and Zoning Board.

Jesse Hillyard was named to the City Council seat left open by the departure of Kenith Butts. Hillyard was in attendance at last night's meeting and was sworn in by City Clerk Adam Lanter.

His seat will be open for election later this year. This circumstance led the City of Caney to pass an ordinance amending the qualifications for filling vacant Council positions, according to Lanter.

Later in the meeting, Joslyn Kuziak was appointed as the new Municipal Judge. She was also in attendance and gave an introduction to the Council.

The final appointment was that of Roy Shafer to Caney's Planning and Zoning Board for a two-year term. Shafer replaces David Estes, who resigned, Lanter says.

Lanter went on to introduce Shafer and voice his approval for the appointment.

Water conservation in Coffeyville is no longer needed after the system has been restored to normal operation.

According to Coffeyville City Manager Ben Brubaker, yesterday morning, a contractor accidentally struck a power line at the water treatment plant, causing a loss of power. 

Crews worked throughout the day to get the plant online. After several attempts, power was successfully restored around 4:30 p.m., and crews immediately began pumping water to refill and stabilize the system. Brubaker says at one point, they were within about a foot of experiencing major pressure issues across town.

The city asked residents to conserve water starting around 3:49 p.m., and by 6:06p.m. they were able to ease that request slightly, though conservation was still encouraged.

Brubaker says this situation is a reminder that the water plant infrastructure is aging and in need of updates.

The City of Coffeyville Water Plant is up and running once again.

On Monday morning, a contractor accidentally struck an overhead line while working on  the new transmission waterline at the plant. This caused the plant to be non-functional. City crews worked quickly to get the plant back up and running. Power was restored around 6pm Monday evening, but residents were asked to limit water use during the overnight hours to allow the system to restabilize.

A motorcyclist and a passenger are injured after colliding with another vehicle in Pittsburg.

57-year-old Mark Vangurp of Parsons was traveling southbound on US-69 through Pittsburg just before 8pm on Monday when he attempted to turn into a parking lot. Vangurp turned in front of a Honda motorcycle driven by 20-year-old Briar Holding of Girard. The motorcycle collided with the other vehicle injuring Holding and his passenger 19-year-old Jordyn Oplotnik, also of Girard. Both were taken to Mercy Hospital in Joplin for treatment.

No other injuries were reported.

The Sedan City Council will meet tonight and address unfinished business from their last meeting.

On the agenda is the topic of fish feeders at the City Lakes. The issue was tabled at the last meeting after Public Works Superintendent Caleb Ironsyde reported that the current feeders were not in working order and the cost to repair them might be expensive. Ironsyde is expected to present an update on the feeders at tonight's meeting. Also on tonight's agenda are details on the opening of the City Pool and several issues related to the police department.

Tonight's meeting begins at 5:30 at the Sedan City Hall. The meeting is open to the public and can also be viewed online via the City of Sedan Facebook page.

A 15-year-old Nebraska boy is dead after drowning in the Elk River in southwest Missouri, about 10 miles east of Grove.

According to the Missouri State Highway Patrol, the boy jumped from a muddy bank on the edge of the river around 4:30 on Sunday afternoon. The victim was attempting to swim across the river but became distressed, went under and did not resurface. The boy was recovered from the water and pronounced deceased at the scene by the McDonald County Deputy Coroner.

The victim's name has not been released.

Montgomery County is reminding taxpayers that second half taxes are due on May 11^th.

Payments can be made in-person in either Independence at the County Courthouse or Coffeyville at the Tag Office. Both locations are open Monday through Friday from 8am to 4pm. Payments may also be made online through the State of Kansas payment portal. Delinquent taxes may be paid online as well, but property owners should contact the Treasurer’s Office first to obtain accurate payoff information.

Those with questions should contact the Montgomery County Treasurer’s Office at 620-330-1100.

The state online portal can be accessed here.

A Cherryvale man suffers serious injuries in a single-vehicle accident just south of Pittsburg.

73-year-old Gary Teer was towing a U-Haul trailer on US-69 just before 7pm on Monday night. His 2007 Dodge Dakota crossed the center line, causing Teer to over correct. The truck and trailer went into the ditch and overturned.

Teer was taken to Mercy Hospital in Joplin for treatment for his injuries.

Clean up in Sycamore continues following last week’s two tornadoes that tore through the unincorporated town north of Independence.

Montgomery County Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson has been organizing the clean up effort after one EF-1 tornado and another EF-2 tornado struck Sycamore on April 26th. Whitson says he has already heard from several of the people who were most impacted by the storm.

The company G & G Dozer of Caney has offered to set up several large dumpsters for storm debris. Those dumpsters will be paid for by Great Plains Methodist Conference of Topeka. Members of the group are also planning to assist with the cleanup. Whitson says it’s a team effort with both private and public groups.

More details will be forth coming for those who wish to help with the cleanup.

The City of Independence will hold an open house this week at their new Public Works facility.

The new facility is located in the former FedEx building in the Independence Industrial Park. The Independence City Commission approved the purchase of the 23,000 square foot facility for $1.7 million last July. That purchase allowed the City to consolidate three departments: Water Distribution/Sewer Collection, the Street Department, and Sanitation. That consolidation allowed for shared resources such as personnel, equipment and tolls as well as cost efficiencies and improved inter-departmental communication.

City Engineer John Garris says renovations on the building are complete and the community is invited to come tour the building.

Garris added that to build a new structure such as this would likely have cost the City and Independence tax payers around $10 million. He called the new facility a cost-effective solution to address some critical infrastructure needs, and that it positions the City for continued delivery of quality services well into the future. The Thursday afternoon event will feature comments from City leaders and a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by the Independence Chamber of Commerce at 5:15.

The Cherryvale City Council discusses storm shelter options after a recent tornado warning.

At Monday's meeting, Cherryvale Resident Tracy Wenino addressed the Council regarding the lack of storm shelter options in town.

Currently, the parsonage of the Cherryvale Bible Holiness Church is the only storm shelter listed in Cherryvale. City Clerk Karen Davis says the city holds the insurance policy for the Library, but the decision to re-open it as a shelter will be in the hands of the library board.

Council Member Devin Conner says he would like to be able to provide shelter for residents but also points out that the state will reimburse homeowners who build their own shelters up to $3,500 through the Sunflower Safe Program.

The school was also discussed as a potential shelter, but that decision will be up to the school board.

UPDATE (6:06pm)
Power has been restored to the water treatment plant.

The City is asking that all water users for the City Of Coffeyville to continue their efforts to limit water use over the next 12 hours as the work to refill the water basins and stabilize the system.

They thank residents for their cooperation.

....

The City of Coffeyville is asking residents to conserve water until further notice after an issue at the water treatment plant.

City officials say a contractor accidentally struck an overhead line earlier today while working on a new transmission waterline, leaving the facility currently not operational. Crews are working to restore service as quickly as possible, but in the meantime, residents and large water users are urged to limit usage to essential needs only.

The city says updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

The Nowata County Commissioner tables the approval of the sales tax budget for the 2026-2027 fiscal year. County Clerk Kay Spurgeon says there are changes in funds with the county clerk accounts.

The commissioners also approved requests for leave sharing, a resolution to raise the salary of county officers and heard an update from Emergency Manager Laurie Summers.

The Kansas Department of Transportation is preparing to begin a reconstruction project on Highway 160 near the Bartlett soybean processing plant.

Crews began setting up detour signs today, with the highway expected to close between Highway 169 and County Road 5500 sometime this week, potentially Wednesday. The official detour will route traffic along Highway 169, 166 and 59. KDOT says state highways are used for safety and to handle heavier traffic, noting nearby routes like K-101 are not suitable for large trucks.

During construction, through traffic will be stopped at both ends of the project area, but commercial vehicles will still be able to access the soybean plant and landfill from Highway 169 using a temporary road. The project includes wider lanes, new shoulders and added turning lanes, with work expected to continue through May 2027. KDOT reminds drivers to stay alert in work zones and follow posted detours.

Coffeyville residents show support to a local business owner while he remains in ICE custody.

Owner of El Charro Salvador Bermudez Herrera was arrested in Coffeyville last week following a traffic stop. According to his arrest record, Bermudez-Herrera was stopped for unlawful use of a turn signal and also had charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia and illegal alien in possession of a firearm. He was detained by ICE and according to posts on social media is being held in a detention facility in Oklahoma.

After his arrest, support poured in on Facebook as well as other social media platforms and a protest was organized for this weekend. Several people attended the protest at the corner of 11^th and Walnut Streets. A second event of support is planned for tomorrow at his restaurant.

Independence High School’s Theatre and Music Department won Outstanding Overall Production at yesterday’s Music Theatre of Wichita Jester Awards.

The award was for IHS’s production of The Addams Family: School Edition. It earned several individual honors as well. Ashley Finnell won for Outstanding Program Design. Charlee Barriger, Salem Miller, Eli Treiber, and Lily Whittet won for Outstanding Costuming. Evalyn Axthelm won for Outstanding Choreography.

To cap it off, IHS won Outstanding Overall Performance as well. Below is the comprehensive list of their honors and nominations:

Honored Region V Outstanding Overall Production and Jester Nominated for Overall Production

Honored Direction of a Show: Mrs. Elizabeth Bennin and Jester Nominated for Direction of a Show

Honored as a Lead Performer in Region V, Ryan Sandon, for his performance as Gomez Addams, and Nominated

Honored as a Supporting Performer, Region V, Brynlee Taylor, for her portrayal of Wednesday Addams

Honored as a Supporting Performer, Region V, JP Tharp, for his portrayal of Lurch

Honored as a Cameo Perfomer Region V, Evalyn Axthelm as the Moon, and nominated for a Jester for her Cameo performance as the Moon in Addams Family: School Edition

Honored Region V Outstanding Small Ensemble and Jester Nominated for Small Ensemble

Honored Region V Outstanding Chours and Jester Nominated for Outstanding Chorus

Honored for Outstanding Production Number “When You’re an Addams”

Honored Region V Outstanding Vocal Musical Direction Mr Kurt and Jester Nominated for Outstanding Vocal Music Direction

Honored Region V Outstanding Choreography, Evalyn Axthelm and Jester Nominated for Choreography, Evalyn Axthelm

Honored Region V Outstanding Stage Crew and Jester Nominated for Outstanding Stage Crew

Honored Region V Outstanding Scenery and Jester Nominated for Outstanding Scenery Cameron Long and Leon Vestering

Honored Region V Outstanding Costume Design: Charlee Barriger, Salem Miller, Eli Treiber, and Lillian Whittet. Nominated for Outstanding Costume Design: Charlee Barriger, Salem Miller, Eli Treiber, and Lillian Whittet

Honored for Region V Lighting: Lucas Frederickson, Reece Giles, Dez Ortiz, Dajuan Rowland, and Jacob Youk

Honored Region V Outstanding Program Design, Ashley Finnell, and Jester Nominated for Program Design, Ashley Finnell

Honored Region V Outstanding Lobby Display and Jester Nominated for Outstanding Lobby Display

Photo Courtesy: Independence High School Theatre Dept Facebook

A Topeka man wanted in Texas is jailed in Washington County after fleeing a traffic stop on Friday morning.

27-year-old Ezekiel Joshua Evans faces a felony charge of false impersonation, a misdemeanor count of obstruction in addition to three traffic violations.

A Bartlesville police officer stopped Evans for speeding on Washington Boulevard near the Adams Boulevard overpass. Evans said he did not have a driver’s license and gave a false name, according to an affidavit. After the name returned no records, the officer attempted to arrest him for driving without a license.

Evans fled on foot in handcuffs but fell down an embankment after tripping on a guardrail. Officers took him into custody. Investigators say Evans threw his wallet into the roadway. A Texas ID inside confirmed his identity and a $30,000 burglary warrant.

Evans bond was set at $10,000, but he will continue to be held on the Texas extradition request. Evans is due back in court May 15

The City of Cherryvale celebrates its 155^th birthday.

According to the Cherryvale Historical Museum, the City of Cherryvale was officially laid out by the L-L & G Railroad on May 3, 1871. Soon after, settlers began moving to the town including Jacob Blaes and Frank Steinberger. The Bender family also moved to the area and opened their infamous inn around the same time.

Other events of note in the early days of Cherryvale include the first hotel in the City, built in 1871 at 102 South Depot Street and the first school that was constructed in 1872 at the corner of 4^th and Montgomery.

Happy birthday, Cherryvale!

The Caney City Council looks to fill a vacant council seat at tonight’s regular meeting.

On the agenda for this evening’s meeting is the appointment of Jacie Hilyard to fill that seat . The Council will also discuss amending the city ordinance dealing with the qualifications for filling vacant seats on the council. Also up for consideration will be the appointment of Joslyn Kuziak as Municipal Judge and of Roy Shafer to the Planning & Zoning Board.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 6:30 at the Caney City Hall. Those who wish to attend the meeting are asked to enter City Hall through the east doors.

The Governor’s Scholars Award program recognizes the top 1% and Kansas high school seniors from accredited public and private school across the state. This year 527 students were honored for their academic excellence, leadership, and dedication at a Sunday ceremony held on the campus of Washburn University in Topeka. Students from Montgomery County who were recognized include Madelyn Mills of Caney, Landon Fox from Cherryvale, Finian Foraker and Sarah Turner from Coffeyville, and Alan Mah and Katelyn Spencer from Independence. Students received a certificate from Governor Laura Kelly and heard a keynote speech from Kansas Teacher of the Year  Rachel Marlow, an elementary music teacher for the Olathe Public Schools.

Other area students honored include:

LCHS

Hadley Graves

Mason Hoppes

Caney

Madelyn Mills

Chanute

Joseph Cox

Jaqueline Smoot

Altoona-Midway

Kage Beck

Cherryvale

Landon Fox

FKHS

Finian Foraker

Sarah Turner

Columbus

Katelyn Draeger

Fort Scott

Ashley Cannon

 Bronson Smith

Fredonia

Merci Foreman

Eureka

Alaina Westerman

West Elk

Jared Tucker

Iola

 Bethany Miller

Humboldt

Darryl Farrill

Independence

Alan Mah

Katelyn Spencer

Olpe

Cade Whitmore

Oswego

Owen Jackson

Parsons

Shealeigh Clark

Sedan

Peyton Morris

A full  list of honorees can be found at this link.

The Community Foundation for Independence is offering a microgrant program designed to support small, creative projects that make a difference in the community.

The Community Impact Microgrant Program provides grants of up to $500 for small, community-driven projects. C-F-F-I is accepting applications from nonprofits, schools, community groups, and individuals with ideas that strengthen the Independence community. Citizens with projects that focus on beautification, community engagement, youth development, arts and culture, or simply addressing an emerging need are encouraged to apply.

The group is currently accepting applications through June 30th. For more information or to apply, go here.

A 13-year-old Salina boy is in custody after leading police on a car chase in his mother’s car in the early morning hours on Friday.

According to Salina Police, an officer attempted a traffic stop on the vehicle in the area of Marcella Drive in Salina. However, the boy did not comply and fled in the vehicle. During the pursuit, the teen lost control of the car and struck a pole. He then exited and car and continued to flee on foot. The boy was located and arrested soon after.

Police suspected the boy was intoxicated and transported him to Salina Regional Health Center for DUI testing and to have him medically cleared. Authorities say that while the boy was under treatment at the hospital, he remained uncooperative and struck a security guard.

The suspect was taken to the Juvenile Detention Center in Junction City where he face a DUI charge.

It’s a sure sign that summer is just around the corner.

The Independence Farmers and Makers Market opened for the season on Saturday,

The market featured dozens of vendors selling items such as farm-fresh produce, homemade baked goods, locally raised beef and handmade crafts. Local citizens turned out to shop for great bargains and chat with friends and neighbors.

The Independence Farmers and Makers Market is open every Saturday  and Thursday through October 10 in the parking lot located at 8th and Chestnut Streets. The hours are 5 to 7 on Thurdays and 7:30 through 11am on Saturdays.

Photo courtesy Independence Farmers and Makers Market

The Kentucky Derby came to Coffeyville on Saturday.

The Coffeyville Historical Society held the Run for the Roses fundraiser at the Brown Mansion on Saturday, where attendees were able to watch the Derby as well as enjoy the grounds of the historic mansion.

In addition to watching the race, which saw Golden Tempo make history as the first female-trained Kentucky Derby winner, attendees were able to play games such as croquet and cornhole, enjoy traditional Derby food and drinks, and for many of the ladies in attendance, wear big hats.

Organizers say the event was a huge success and plans are already underway for the 2027 Derby.

Photo: Sarah Reese

The Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office issues a warning about a text scam in the area.

The text appears to be from the District Court of Kansas, Traffic Division. It informs the recipient that the matter must be resolved by a certain date or that person will face legal consequences including fines. The text includes a link to a website that the scammer calls a “court portal.” Anyone who receives a text like this is advised not to reply or click the link.

To protect your personal information, do not give out personal or financial details. If the text claims to be from a bank, government agency, or company, look up their official, independent phone number or website to verify, rather than using the info in the text. If you receive a suspicious text, do not click links, reply, or provide personal information. Immediately block the sender, report it as spam to your mobile carrier.

The Cherryvale City Council will discuss the purchase of three replacement vehicles for the police department.. Assistant Police Chief Josh Shields will make a presentation on the department's needs at tonight's City Council meeting.

In other business, the council will approve two-year leadership positions and hear citizen comments.

Tonight's meeting begins at 6 p.m. at City Hall in Cherryvale and is open to the public.

Wilson County Rural Fire responds to an equipment fire in a gas field.

Firefighters received the call around 6:15 on Saturday morning. Crews arrived on the scene at a gas field located east of Altoona to find visible smoke and flames on a piece of equipment used in extraction. Firefighters were able to bring the blaze under control and extinguish the fire. No injuries were reported.

Photo courtesy Wilson County Rural Fire

USD 461 – Neodesha selects a new District Superintendent.

The Neodesha School Board held a special meeting on Friday night and selected Rusty Arnold to be the next Superintendent of the Neodesha Schools. Arnold is a graduate of Neodesha High School and has been working as the NHS Principal for the past year. He also brings a wealth of experience in the Superintendent role, after having served as Superintendent in both Sedan and Independence.

The move comes following the announced retirement of Juanita Erickson last week. Erickson served as Superintendent for the past nine years. She leaves a lasting impact on Neodesha schools, including the the initiation of the Neodesha Promise Scholarship Program, leading the district through the Covid pandemic, and the development and opening of the Neodesha Early Learning Center.

President of the USD 461 School Board Kelly Birk stated that the Board of Education will be working closely with both Arnold and Erickson over the next few weeks as the district makes the transition. Arnold will officially begin his tenure as Superintendent on July 1st.

The Montgomery County Commission will meet today with a light agenda of business.

At today’s meeting County Administrator Jonathan Booe and Assistant County Administrator Kory White will discuss with commissioners the recent Request for Proposals for the County Comprehensive Plan & Zoning regulations. The County issued the R-F-P last month in order to find a consulting firm to take the lead in writing the new plan. The comprehensive plan is the county’s long-term blueprint for balancing growth, development, and preservation so the community develops in a way that matches local goals and priorities. This new version may include regulations for zoning in Montgomery County.

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.

The Coffeyville FFA Chapter announces the new office team for next school year.

Outgoing President Bennett Thompson announces the new president.

Avery Sells was named president for the 2026-2027 school year, with Alek Plute named Vice President.

Other incoming officers include Kinslee Pippin as Secretary, Kaya Morgan as Treasurer, Tyler Thompson as Reporter, Elizabeth Cook as Sentinel and Sabrina Roeder as Student Advisor.

The Coffeyville FFA Banquet was held Friday Night at Community Elementary.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is identifying the suspect in an officer-involved shooting that occurred Friday evening in Ottawa.

The suspect is identified as 33-year-old Zachary Pule of Coffeyville.  Pule was found deceased from an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound.

The incident occured Friday evening when the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and the Ottawa Police Department attempted to serve a warrant on a homicide suspect out of Kansas City, Missouri at a multi-unit residence in the 500 block of South Locust Street in Ottawa.

During the initial approach, the suspect fired from within the residence, striking an Ottawa police officer. The officer sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported by ambulance to a Kansas City area hospital, where he is being treated and is expected to recover.

Later in the evening, officers entered the apartment and located the suspect deceased from an apparent gunshot wound. The suspect was pronounced dead at the scene. No shots were fired by law enforcement during the course of the incident.

The KBI says no further information will be released at this time. The investigation remains ongoing. 

The Coffeyville Proud Beautification Initiative is getting ready for round three, and organizers are inviting the community to get involved.

The event starts on Friday, May 15^th, with opportunities for volunteers to help improve neighborhoods across the city. Whether someone is looking for service hours, enjoy giving back or have an idea for a local project, organizers say there’s a place to contribute.

Community members can also submit project ideas as part of the initiative. To volunteer or suggest a project, contact Community Development Director Amber Dean at adean@coffeyville.com.

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas is now accepting applications for the 2026 Knights of Columbus grant cycle.

This is aimed at supporting programs across the region. The funding focuses on helping low-income families, seniors and individuals with needs like housing, utilities and health services. Officials say the grant program has already awarded more than $250,000 since it began.

Applications are open through the end of the month, and organizers say the goal is to continue addressing some of the most pressing needs facing Southeast Kansas families. Community leaders encourage local nonprofits and organizations to apply as the region continues to look for ways to expand services and support residents.

Coffeyville Community College’s Spring Band and Choir Concert draws a crowd.

More than 200 people filled the Spencer-Rounds Theatre on Thursday, April 23^rd for an evening of live music featuring the CCC Concert Choir and Jazz Band. Under the direction of Kristi Reedy and Aaron Burke, students performed a mix of classic and contemporary selections, highlighting the depth and versatility of the program.  Graduating musicians were also recognized during the concert for their contributions to the department.

CCC President Dr. Marlon Thornburg says the event brings one of the largest concert crowds in years, praising both the students and directors for their performance. College leaders say the concert reflects the continued growth and momentum of the Fine Arts programs, along with strong support from the community.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is expanding access to care with the opening of a new pharmacy.

Community Rx is now open inside the CRMC Medical Office Building on West 4^th Street, offering both in-store and drive-thru options. Patients visiting the clinic can have prescriptions sent directly to the pharmacy and pick them up after. CRMC Chief Operating Officer Lisa Kuehn says the pharmacy was part of the plan from the beginning, designed to create a seamless experience from clinic visit to prescription pickup.

Pharmacy Director Stephen Haley says Community Rx focuses on convenience, efficiency and personalized care, with services including prescription transfers, insurance assistance and medication counseling. Community Rx is open Monday through Friday from 9:00am to 6:30pm.

The City of Independence receives federal grant funding for safety improvements across the City.

The City applied for and recently received confirmation of a $1.6 million grant from the Safe Streets For All program. The program funds projects by focusing on on high-injury networks, pedestrian safety, and reducing dangerous streets and roads. City engineer John Garris says as large part of this grant will go toward the construction in a highly traveled part of the city.

Garris says there will also be additional curb extensions like the ones found in the downtown area.

The City will need formal approval from the City Commission to accept the grant before any work can begin.

The City of Independence updates residents on the progress of the installation of new trees in the downtown area.

At the February 26^th City Commission meeting, commissioners approved a new downtown tree plan that would see the removal of the old trees. Park, Zoo & Cemetery Director Scott Patton says the last time the City addressed this issue was in 2015.

Recently, the City has received multiple complaints from downtown business owners and citizens regarding excessive bird droppings on sidewalks, seating areas and vehicles, and a variety of bird deterrent solutions have failed to resolve the issue. Phase 1 of the project to remove the old trees and install news has begun in the blocks surrounding the intersection of Penn and Main. Patton says the new trees are expected to reduce the bird problem.

Patton explained a total of 94 trees would be replaced over a three-year period, and partial funding for the project - $17,263 - will come from leftover donations from a 2015 tree-planting campaign. Remaining funds will come from the City’s general fund.

The City of Independence will hold an Open House at the new Public Works Facility next week.

The event will include facility tours and light refreshments, plus comments from City leaders and a ribbon cutting ceremony led by the Independence Chamber of Commerce.

The former FedEx building in the Independence Industrial Park was authorized for purchase by the Independence City Commission in July 2025. Renovations have been completed on the 23,000-square-foot facility to accommodate the consolidation and relocation of the City of Independence’s public works services from multiple locations around town.

The new facility houses three departments: Water Distribution/Sewer Collection, Street, and Sanitation. City officials say those departments have experienced marked improvements in operational efficiency and also overall employee morale since relocating to the new building. The open house will be held next Thursday, May 7,from 3 to 6pm at the Public Works building at 2143 Enterprise Drive.

One person is injured in a two-vehicle accident north of Cherryvale.

The crash occurred on US-169 just south of the US-400 junction or about 5 miles north of Cherryvale. Around 1pm on Thursday. 44-year-old Stephanie Dorsey of Topeka was southbound on US-169 in a Dodge Ram pickup. Dorsey pulled onto the shoulder of the roadway and attempted to make a u-turn. It was then that her vehicle was struck by a semi-truck driven by 41-year-old Adam Odegard of Winfield.

Dorsey suffered minor injuries and was transported to Labette Health for treatment. Odegard was uninjured.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly signs a proclamation approving updated drought declarations for Kansas counties.

The drought declaration added 51 counties into watch status and placed 47 into warning and 7 into emergency status. This action was recommended by Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office and Chair of the Governor’s Drought Response Team. The most extreme dry conditions continue to persist in the northwest ans southwest corners of the state, with the counties of Cheyenne, Decatur, Morton, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, and Stevens listed as a drought emergency. Most of the remaining counties west of Wichita remain under a drought warning. 

Owen stated: “ “Recent rainfall has helped in some areas, but drought is far from over in Kansas. Conditions range from crop stress and elevated fire danger to growing water supply concerns. In the hardest-hit areas, we are seeing significant agricultural losses and extreme rangeland fire risk. It is important to monitor conditions and be mindful of water usage as drought impacts evolve.”

Spring rains in the eastern portions of the state mean counties in southeast Kansas are in the drought watch category. These counties include Allen, Bourbon,Chautauqua, Cherokee, Elk, Greenwood, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson Counties.

The updated declaration covers the following counties:

Drought Emergency: Cheyenne, Decatur, Morton, Norton, Phillips, Rawlins, Stevens.

Drought Warning: Barber, Barton, Clark, Comanche, Edwards, Ellis, Ellsworth, Finney, Ford, Gove, Graham, Grant, Gray, Greeley, Hamilton, Harvey, Haskell, Hodgeman, Kearny, Kingman, Kiowa, Lane, Lincoln, Logan, McPherson, Meade, Mitchell, Ness, Osborne, Pawnee, Pratt, Reno, Rice, Rooks, Rush, Russell, Scott, Seward, Sheridan, Sherman, Smith, Stafford, Stanton, Thomas, Trego, Wallace, Wichita.

Drought Watch: Allen, Anderson, Atchison, Bourbon, Brown, Butler, Chase, Chautauqua, Cherokee, Clay, Cloud, Coffey, Cowley, Crawford, Dickinson, Doniphan, Douglas, Elk, Franklin, Geary, Greenwood, Harper, Jackson, Jefferson, Jewell, Johnson, Labette, Leavenworth, Linn, Lyon, Marion, Marshall, Miami, Montgomery, Morris, Nemaha, Neosho, Osage, Ottawa, Pottawatomie, Republic, Riley, Saline, Sedgwick, Shawnee, Sumner, Wabaunsee, Washington, Wilson, Woodson, Wyandotte.

For more information, follow this link.

The Kansas Department of Transportation approves funding for a bike path project in Iola.

The $12.2 million project will construct bike and pedestrian paths along a 1.4 mile stretch of US-54 between State Street and Kansas Drive in Iola. The contract for the project was awrded to Bettis Asphalt and Construction of Topeka.

Mother's Day is coming up on Sunday, May 10th, and KGGF is here to help make that day a little more special.

We want to hear your fondest memory of your Mom: the moment that still makes you smile, laugh, or maybe even tear up a little.

Just share your story with us, and you could win a special Mother’s Day prize package from the Osage Casino and Hotel in Tulsa.

We'll have prize drawings all next week, with the grand prize drawing on Friday, May 8th during Remember When on Classic Hits 104.1 between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. A link to enter is available HERE.

Cleanup continues at properties hit by tornadoes in the Sycamore area.  Below are some images of damage from Sunday's EF-2 taken from the air yesterday:

Click here for more information and the track of the storm.

Two houses hit by the EF-2 east of Sycamore

Tree Damage