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Local News Archives for 2018-05

Break-Ins at Local Stores

 

Local store owners might want to beef up their security. There has been a string of break-ins at stores in Coffeyville that are being investigated by the police department. Blu Boots Manager Corrissa Ammerman says luckily nothing was stolen from them.

 

Ammerman says Blu Boots has been hit twice, once three weeks ago and then again over Memorial Day Weekend. She says all local stores are keeping each other in the loop to help each other out.

 

Summer Camp for 6th to 8th Grade Girls

 

Empowering girls to build a better future.  100 spots to fill for the Summer STEM Program for 6th to 8th grade girls. Organizer Joanne Smith says they are just over half way there.  Smith says they want the girls to have the right tools to pursue all the opportunities available in science, technology, engineering and math fields. 

 

She says this will be in conjuction with the FABLAB but will be located at ICC West and they girsl will learn several things from design thinking to 3D printing.

Company Fined For Violating No-Call List

 

A Florida company will pay $10,000 in penalties and fees for violating the No-Call Act. National Auto Protection Corp. agreed to a consent judgment ordering it to pay fees and civil penalties. The judgment was approved last week by Judge Franklin R. Theis in Shawnee County District Court. In addition, National Auto Protection Corp was enjoined from further violations of the Kansas No-Call Act and the Kansas Consumer Protection Act.

 

The Attorney General’s Consumer Protection Division began investigating National Auto Protection Corp in 2016 after receiving complaints from Kansas consumers about receiving unsolicited telemarketing calls.

 

New Fraternity & Sorority Life Coordinator Named At PSU

 

On Monday, a new Fraternity and Sorority Life Coordinator is set to begin work at Pittsburg State University. Anna Stark will serve more than 500 students active in fraternities and sororities. The position has been unfilled since November 2017, with a graduate assistant covering some duties this spring and the remainder having been taken on by Eva Sager, the associate director of Campus Activities.

 

Stark, a native of Oklahoma, completed her master's degree at Arkansas Tech University. She earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from Drury University in Springfield, Missouri.

Miami PD Raffling A Cessna

 

It could be an affordable means for earning your wings-- if you're lucky. Miami Police Chief Thomas Anderson says they are raffling a Cessna.  Thomas says a family donated the aircraft to help the city raise matching funds for airport improvements. The $50 raffle ticket includes 10 hours of training which is what most people need to get a solo license. Ross Aviation is fully restoring the Cessna 172.

 

Ticket sales are expected to begin tomorrow.  The drawing will be held once 4,000 tickets are sold.  Buy tickets here.

 

 

 

**KOAM contributed to this story

Coffeyville Summer Buzz

 

 

The unofficial start to summer being here means new things around the city of Coffeyville. Director of the Chamber of Commerce Candi Westbrook says the Yoke Bar & Grill have something new coming.

As they are kind of changing things up for the summer, they will print a new menu and ad a few items. Including more barbeque items and lighter items such as salads and wraps. Summertime in Coffeyville always mean to mark you calendars for August as the Interstate Fair & Rodeo returns.Westbrook also explains an Artisan Market gets its start up this weekend in downtown by the  Lannings parking lot. Featuring local metal workers, jewelry makers, and all sorts of other artists and are still looking for vendors to attend.

 

Baxter Springs Native Completes Basic Training

 

U.S. Air Force Airman Dalton Sawyer, from Baxter Springs, graduates from basic military training at San Antonio, Texas. Sawyer completed an eight-week program that included training in military discipline and studies, Air Force core values, physical fitness, and basic warfare principles and skills. Sawyer is the son Max Sawyer Jr. of Baxter Springs.

 

He is a 2017 graduate of Baxter Springs High School.

 

Columbus Man Jailed On Felony Theft Complaint

 

The Pittsburg Police Department and Cherokee County Sheriff's Office work to investigate some construction equipment theft from Pittsburg. The value of the equipment was estimated at $30,000. Sheriff's deputies set up surveillance on a property near Sherwin where the equipment was located. 48-year-old Thomas Prater, of Columbus, was arrested on suspicion of possessing stolen property. It is a felony level complaint.

 

Prater was released after posting $5,000 bond.

Looking To Add New Stores And Restaurants

 

It is not just about recruiting industry. Montgomery County Action Council's Trisha Purdon says additional stores and restaurants are an important piece of the puzzle, especially to bringing in larger-scale employers.  Purdon is just back from the annual retail conference in Las Vegas, NV.   

 

She was promoting Montgomery County and the 100-thousand residents who live within a 45-minute radius as potential customers.

2018 KGGF Auction!

 

 

It’s auction time!  The 3rd annual KGGF Auction returns to Coffeyville this June. KGGF auction organizer Dorea Potter explains why this auction is a win win for everyone involved and why the KGGF auction continues to return. Buying items from a huge list of  local businesses and businesses surrounding including the Grand Country Music Hall in Branson. The auction will be held at the CRC Gym this year starting at 10am on June 9th. Potter also says all items being auctioned off will not go over 80% original price potentially  saving the buyer big bucks. The auction will start at 10 am with no cost to you for the bidding numbers. You can obtain your number, browse great locally bought items and even win great prizes at the door at the 2018 KGGF auction this June at the Coffeyville Recreation Commission at Walter Johnson Park.

Transportation Task Force

 

A Transportation Task Force being put together in the State of Kansas. Representative Rich Proehl says in the next 35-40 days they should have that committee all set.

 

Representative Proehl says there will be a wide variety of people on the task force including himself.

Congressman Estes Pauses To Reflect On Memorial Day

 

Kansas Congressman Ron Estes pauses to reflect on the meaning of Memorial Day over the weekend. In a released statement he says it is important to never forget the sacrifices.  Estes says those in the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard defend freedom at home and around the world.

 

He adds we should never stop honoring our fallen and missing soldiers and supporting their families.

Preventing Cook-Out Illness

 

For some, Memorial Day will not be complete without the burgers, potato salad, and all the other great traditional dishes. Wildcat Extension District Food Safety Agent Barbara Ames says you do not want any uninvited guests, such as e-coli or salmonella.  Ames says it is very important to use a meat thermometer for anything on the grill.

 

And, for the cold foods, they shouldn't be left out of the fridge or ice chest for more than two hours total.

Sgt. Randall Takes Top Cop Award

 

A big honor for one who stands along the thin blue line.

 

Coffeyville Police Sergeant Stephine Randall receives the 2017 Officer of the Year Award. The honor was presented by the local Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW post 1022). Randall received the award on Saturday afternoon.  Police Chief Kwin Bromley attended the ceremony with her.

Sedan PD Looking For Litter Bugs

 

The Sedan Police Department is out with a warning. Residents are advised to keep their trash to themselves. They've had some recent issues with littering or illegal dumping. Sedan Police say the fine for criminal littering is costly and will not be tolerated. The fine is no less than $250 plus $95 court cost and no more than $1000 plus $95 court cost.

 

If evidence is found linking trash to an individual, police say they will be charged.

Four Face Complaints Following Search

 

A search warrant lands four people in trouble from Baxter Springs. Police Officers served a search warrant at a home in the 300 block of West 15th Street late last week. The four face charges on misdemeanor complaints.

 

Three of the four were booked into jail. The fourth was released at the scene.

Legislative Forum Set For Thursday

 

 

This Thursday a community forum will take place in Independence at the Civic Center. Representatives Jim Kelly, Rich Proehl, and Doug Blex and Senator Dan Goddard will all be there. Representative Proehl says they will each have something to discuss.  Representative Proehl says he expects Representative Kelly to discuss the telemedicine bill.

 

The forum will begin at 5:30.

 

Fun Weekend In SEK

 

There is a lot going on this weekend in southeast Kansas. Katy Days celebrates rail history in Parsons. There will be live entertainment, food vendors, and a beer garden.  The Yellow Brick Road Festival is underway in Sedan. The Chautauqua Hills Blues Festival is this weekend. In Caney, the annual Mayfest Celebration is underway. Wark Park will feature carnival rides, food and craft vendors, a pie eating contests, turtle races and more.

Remains Found In Harvey County

 

The remains of 5-year-old Lucas Hernandez have been found. Wichita Police Officer Charley Davidson says there is more work to do.  The remains were reportedly found near Sedgwick in Harvey County. The stepmother of Lucas Hernandez, 27-year-old Emily Glass, has been booked into the Sedgwick County Jail for interference with law enforcement.

 

The child was reported missing in February by Glass, who claimed he disappeared while she was taking a nap.

 

Don't Forget To Sign Your Kids Up For Little Athletes

 

 

Little Athletes is starting up and is accepting new kids! Christine Lay from the Coffeyville recreation commissions explains they have a  program to expose your kids ages 3 to 5 to not one but three different sports all in one. Soccer, T-ball and basketball are the three sports as Soccer will go from June 25th through the 28th. T-ball from July 2nd through the 6th and for basketball from July 9th to July 12th. Soccer will take place at Sherwin Williams Fields, T-Ball will be at the Little league Park and basketball is being held at the CRC Gym. For children inside the 445 district, the program will cost 20 dollars. Anyone outside the district will pay 25, registration is due by June 18th. A great way to keep your kids active and grow great and vital social skills.

 

High Quality Water in Coffeyville

 

1.19 billion gallons of water produced at the water treatment plant in the City of Coffeyville. To ensure tap water is safe to drink, the EPA prescribes regulations which limit the amount of certain contaminants in water provided by public water systems. The City’s water is treated according to EPA’s regulations. During 2017 there were no violations of drinking water standards.

 

The City of Coffeyville provides water to the residents and businesses in town, to the cities of Dearing and South Coffeyville and five rural water districts. A copy of the water report is available on the City’s website, and printed copies are available in the City Clerk’s office at 102 W. 7th Street.

SEK Man Pleads Guilty To Murder

 

A Neodesha man pleads guilty to reckless second-degree murder and other charges in the death of Michael P. Elam. 37-year-old Dejay Lynn Schlegel pleaded guilty in Wilson County District Court to one count of murder in the second degree–reckless, one count of arson, one count of interference with law enforcement, and one count of theft. Judge David W. Rogers accepted the pleas and scheduled sentencing for August 8 at 1:30 p.m. The crimes occurred on December 13, 2016.

 

The case was investigated by the Neodesha Police Department and Kansas Bureau of Investigation. 

Coffeyville Aquatic Center To Open Saturday

 

 

The City of Coffeyville readies itself for some summer fun. Interim City Manager Michael Shook says school is out and it is time to swim and golf.

Shook says the snack bar is also open at Hillcrest, featuring burgers and hot dogs.

 

He reminds residents to be mindful of kids playing around town.

Contract Approved For Parking Lot Resurfacing

 

Work continues to improve the parking lot near 9th Street and Maple downtown Coffeyville. City Commissioners last night approved a resolution to contract with Heckert Construction to finish work on the project. The City's Thomas Osborne says the project required more work than planned due to failure of the base.

 

Commissioners also approved a resolution to grant a pipeline right of way easement to Coffeyville Resources Nitrogen Fertilizer across Wilcox Street.

 

Weinberg Hall Renovations Underway

 

After 60-years, Coffeyville Community College's Weinberg Hall needs a lift. The building has been sinking, so this summer repairs are underway. Vice President For Operations and Finance Jeff Morris says a leveling foam will raise the building, new heat and air will move to the roof, and lighting upgrades are planned..

 

Those who work in Weinberg Hall have been relocated to Nellis Hall and the Arts and Sciences Building. The target date for completing the work is August 1st.

Crawford County Sisters Found Guilty In Fraud Case

 

A pair of Crawford County sisters are ordered to repay more than $3,000 to the Kansas Medicaid program after being found guilty of Medicaid Fraud-related charges. 43-year-old Amanda Forbes and 47-year-old Melissa Forbes, of Pittsburg, each pleaded no contest in March to one felony count of making a false claim to the Medicaid program and one felony count of conspiracy to make a false claim to the Medicaid program. Each defendant was also sentenced to 24 months of probation. An investigation by the attorney general’s Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Division revealed that Melissa Forbes had billed the Kansas Medicaid program as the personal care attendant for her sister, Amanda, to provide home-based care services.

 

The defendants billed for those home-based care services during periods while either Melissa Forbes or Amanda Forbes was incarcerated in the Crawford County Jail.

Mid-Continent Band 2018 Kick Off

 

 

Memorial Day is this weekend and at Riverside Park you’ll find a bunch of activities. Starting at 10 am will be the kick off of the Mid-Continent Band’s 2018 season. Director of the Independence Chamber of Commerce Lisa Wilson explains the group is a community band that has been going strong for 100 years and will be performing a full memorial service in the Mount Hope cemetery. If you can’t make the 10 o’clock performance, remember the band will play every following Tuesday in the Riverside Park Bandshell. In the afternoon they are starting up something new and very cool to tribute our wars and the veterans who were apart of them. Large granite squares with information of all the wars even dating back to the Declaration of Independence. After almost 2 years in the works the memorial will finally get it’s dedication at 2 pm this memorial day at the Riverside Park. Go show your support for your community and for your country.

 

CCC Summer Class Enrollment Open

 

Online or on campus, session one summer classes are open for enrollment at Coffeyville Community College. Director of College Relations Yvonne Hull says this is beneficial for any type of college student.

 

Hull says classes will start June 4th.

 

Millions Returned To Consumers & Taxpayers

 

The attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division recovered a record $61 million for consumers and taxpayers last year. Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt filed the annual report with the governor and legislature. Schmidt’s office reported nearly $61.9 million in savings and recoveries to Kansas consumers and the state treasury in calendar year 2017. During Schmidt’s administration, the division has recovered a total of more than $208 million, by far the most in state history. The 2017 recoveries surpassed the previous record year of 2013 when the division returned $49.6 million to consumers and taxpayers.

 

The Consumer Protection Division is led by Deputy Attorney General Jim Welch. 

Fire Truck Deals Made

 

Montgomery County's Rural Fire Operation will soon include a 53-foot tele-squirt boom truck. The fire truck comes as a donation from Coffeyville Resources, which is replacing the unit. Emergency Management Director Rick Whitson says the truck is needed.  The refinery has sent the truck to Olathe where it is being refurbished, spending over $120,000 on it. Once their new truck comes in, the old truck will move to Montgomery County.

 

Meanwhile, Whitson has also agreed to have a grass fire unit kept at the refinery which can be used by that department during mutal aid requests.  Coffeyville Resources will cover the maintenance expenses for the truck.

Sheriff Dierks: Additional Dollars May Be Needed For Budget

 

The cost of doing business as the sheriff is on the increase. Montgomery County Sheriff Bobby Dierks says price of food, gasoline, and everything else is going up. He says as a result, he's going to need additional funding from the county commission.  Dierks says he is not pleased with the situation since he has been able to stay under budget every year since he became sheriff.

 

He says he runs a very lean budget with little room to cut back.

New Bill Passed To Form Highway Task Force

 

 

News from Topeka as Representative Jim Kelly explains a new bill has been passed to form a task force to target road work. Road work always gets pushed back due to funding, and with new bill Montgomery County may get some funding on some targeted projects.  Projects here in the county include the 169 interchange near Independence and highway 75 entering Caney. The Highway 169 interchange is repeatedly noted for the large amounts of accidents that take place and the Caney entrance is being proposed to turn into a four lane road. Not only will the projects make our roads a much safer place, but the work also promotes a larger flow of traffic giving the potential for larger populations and businesses.

IHS Student Awarded KAB Scholarship

 

The Kansas Association of Broadcasters and KAB Foundation awards $15,000 in scholarships to Kansas students attending colleges and universities in the state next school year. To earn the scholarship students must be a Kansas resident attending a post-secondary institution, enrolled full time in a broadcast related curriculum and maintain a 2.5 or higher GPA. Applicants were interviewed in person by a select committee of KAB members.

 

There were ten winners this year including Zeb Campbell from Independence High School and he will be attending Butler Community College.

IPD Transparency

 

Corruption can be detrimental to a police department especially when it comes to the public's trust. Independence Police Chief Jerry Harrison says their department tries to be as transparent as possible.

 

Chief Harrison says they new asset forfeiture law will help with that transparency and will show the public exactly what happens to property when it is seized.

Medicaid Fraud Lands Emporia Woman In Prison

 

An Emporia woman will serve more than a year in prison and repay more than $12,000 to the Kansas Medicaid Program after pleading guilty to Medicaid fraud-related charges. In January, 40-year-old Jennifer Flores pleaded guilty in Lyon County District Court to two felony counts of making a false claim to the Medicaid program. That probe revealed that Flores billed Medicaid for services provided as a personal care attendant for a Medicaid beneficiary, who was disabled and eligible for home-based services, while the beneficiary was hospitalized or while the defendant was incarcerated.

 

There were approximately 935 hours that the defendant claimed she was providing these services.

Coffeyville Public Library Summer Reading Start Up

 

 

 
The Coffeyville Public Library always has activities throughout the year. And now that it’s summertime, Director of the Library Katie Hill says June 9th is the start of the summer reading program and explains what it’s all about. If you’re looking to avoid the summer slide and keep all the academic progress you or you’re child has made through the school year you may want to get involved!. All ages are welcome to participate, and Hill says there has been some changes for the kickoff. Instead of a kickoff “party” it’s more come at your own leisure. Between 1 and 4 June 9th, to make it more convenient for working individuals. When signed up for the summer reading program, Hill says you will receive a reading log to keep track of your books. Hill also says there is milestone rewards for the more books you read, and in the end a better chance to have your name selected for the Grand prize.

Networking Opportunities in Coffeyville

 
Advancing Modern Professionals or AMP is a group that started recently in Coffeyville that's all about networking.  Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says they have a number of different activities you can participate in.
 
 
Westbrook says networking can be important when in comes to learning and professional development.    AMP can help you learn about all the different things going on in the Community.

 

Armstrong Wins Ellis Memorial Scholarship

 

The winner of the Dr. Stephen Ellis Memorial Scholarship has been announced by Coffeyville Regional Medical Center's Foundation. The award goes to 2018 Field Kindley graduate Michelle Armstrong. She has been active in National Honor Society, Spanish Club, Band, Cheerleading, and Track. Armstrong plans to attend Coffeyville Community College in the fall and then transfer to Wichita State University.

 

Her goal is to become a dental hygienist.

Coffeyville's School Redesign On Track

 

The Elementary and Secondary School Redesign Specialists from the Kansas State Department of Education visit Coffeyville Public Schools. Jay Scott and Tammy Mitchell were making sure the district is reaching the benchmarks desired for the Mercury 7 Project of Kansans Can.  Mitchell says USD 445 has done a great job. She says the work done in district-wide is impressive, noting many of the other schools are only redesigning curriculum in one building.

 

The district is scheduled to report on the redesign to the state on June 13th.

Food Handling Courses

 

 

Whether you’re working, volunteering or personally handling food, having the right safety knowledge is best for everyone. Barbara Ames from the K-State Wildcat Extension District explains they have classes that will teach you the proper techniques.Having the correct knowledge of how to handle your foods is what’s recommended and will give all your guests peace of mind you know how to handle foods. A 10 dollar registration is due by May 24th to participate, and the class will take place in two different locations. In Independence, June 8th at 410 Peter Pan Road or on Tuesday June 12th in the Wilson County Courthouse basement. For more information you can go onto  www.ksre.k-state.edu.

All Wheels Night Cruises into Indy Friday

 

All Wheels Night and Cruisin' Indy is coming up this Friday. It starts at 6:00pm and will in the 200 block of North Penn Avenue in Downtown Independence. Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson says they'll have several different types of cars lined up.

 

Wilson says Caddywhompus will be performing and the American Soda Fountain will have a hot dog, potato salad and drink for $5.

Time Ticking To File Western Union Claim

 

 

If you think you’re completely out of luck after being the victim of a money scam you may be in luck.  Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt says a claim accused the money transferring company Western Union of having knowledge of these money scams and frauds. Having knowledge of the wrongdoing and not taking action, has Western Union agreeing to pay some people back. Schmidt also says to not sleep on making a claim the final day to make your claim is Thursday May 31st. To make a claim you can head online to www.inyourcornerkansas.org or can always call anywhere in Kansas at (800)-432-2310.

 

(800)-432-2310

 

www.inyourcornerkansas.org

 

High Rate Of Speed Lands Man In Jail

 

A Coffeyville man lands in jail after being clocked on radar driving at 112 miles per hour in a stolen vehicle. Jerry Bailey Jr. faces a charge of possession of a stolen vehicle, driving under suspension and speeding for an incident that occurred over the weekend in Washington County. According to an affidavit, an officer on patrol noticed a vehicle traveling north on U.S. 75 at a high rate of speed. The officer made contact with Bailey who had an identification card but didn’t have a license. Bailey couldn’t provide insurance verification because he was not the owner of the car. Bailey stated that he was trying to get the car back to its owner in Coffeyville.


 

Bond for Bailey was set at $5,000.


 

Multiple Warrants Served in Montgomery County

 

 

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation, High Risk Warrant Team served two search warrants in Montgomery County yesterday. Assisting with the warrant the Coffeyville Police Department, the Independence Police Department and the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office. The first search warrant was at 2 p.m. at 412 East 4th St. in Coffeyville. During the search approximately 77 grams of suspected methamphetamine, $1,537, two handguns and miscellaneous use and sale paraphernalia. Haylee Berliew, 28, was arrested on outstanding arrest warrants, from Labette County, Crawford County, and Frontenac Municipal. The second search warrant was executed at 3 p.m. at 513 West Cottonwood St. in Independence. Located during the search was approximately one ounce of marijuana, two handguns, and miscellaneous use and sale paraphernalia.

 

No arrests were made in connection with either case and both will be forwarded for prosecution.

Dr. Chappell Leaving CRMC Medical Group

 

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center announces that a long-time physician will be leaving CRMC Medical Group. Dr. Daniel Chappell Obstetrics and Gynecology physician will leave effective June 14th. Dr. Chappell will maintain his medical privileges at CRMC. Dr. Chappell has practiced medicine in Coffeyville since1998.

 

We are grateful to Dr. Chappell for his service with CRMC Medical Group and wish him the best in his new endeavors. “Dr. Chappell has been a dedicated physician to CRMC for the past 20 years. We appreciate his service and the care he provided to many moms and babies over the years”, said Lori Rexwinkle, CEO of Coffeyville Regional Medical Center.

 

All current patients of Dr. Chappell may consider other CRMC Medical Group OBGYNs, Dr. Stephen Miller and Dr. Dara Gibson.

 

New Truck Route Approved For Independence

 

 

Safer streets, easier flow of vehicles and more efficient truck traffic . A new truck route for Independence got its approval from the commission. Police Jerry Harrison says it comes by request of the citizens. 20 residents of the area are affected and have been notified about the proposal and are giving great feedback. Making the flow of traffic and managing which roads need more yearly maintenance an easier task is something the route will do. Police Chief Jerry Harrison says everyone so far has loved the design. he route will go from 10th street to Sycamore, then Sycamore to 21st St. From there the route will head to railroad street around the tracks over the scales and back out. Creating a safer more efficient way of picking up loads and helps maintain certain street conditions.

Issues Continue With County Offices In Former Arco Building

 

One of the owners of the former Arco Building, the Independence Corporate Office, goes before the Montgomery County Commission this week. Tim Janak was trying to address concerns raised by Montgomery County Juvenile Services. He also is seeking an extension to have a first floor space ready for the agency.  Director of Juvenile Services, Duane Powell, has indicated they would prefer to be housed elsewhere following several years of climate control issues in the building.

 

Recently, there has also been a number of fires set that have forced employees to find a temporary place to work.  Powell says his preference would be to move staff to a different location.

 

Storm Clean Up Begins Today

 

Severe weather moves across northeast Oklahoma and southeast Kansas overnight. The KGGF Storm Center was activated and provided live coverage as high winds, heavy rains and hail moved through the area. Weather spotters confirm several tornadoes touched town near Ar-Kansas City. One caused a semi to roll onto its side. Copan's Freewill Baptist Church sustained damage. Near Noxie in Nowata County, trees were reportedly uprooted.

 

In Coffeyville, high winds left behind a number of downed tree limbs for residents to clear.

 

Raven Nation Class Of 2018

 

The Coffeyville Community College Class of 2018 earns their degrees.  Vice President for Academic Services Aron Potter presented the class to President Linda Moley on Saturday. There were 248 students eligible for graduation on Saturday from CCC.

 

The keynote speaker was Curtis Harshaw.  He graduated from Coffeyville Community College in 1963.

U.S.D. 445 Truancy Techniques

 

 

Truancy is always usually a problem for any school out there. Roosevelt Middle School Principal Jeff Pegues tells us they have a little different method for absences, and it has worked quite well. Roosevelt middle School treats absences kind of like a job would be. You receive 10 excused absences at the beginning of the year with no questions asked. No matter the reason, you are allowed to have 10 excused absences. After 8 you will receive a notification saying your close to 10. If you have gone over your 10 excused absences, every absence from their on out has to be approved either by an administrator or by a doctor. If not it will be considered unexcused and the truancy policy begins. The truancy policy is either  3 unexcused in a row, 5 in a month and 7 in a semester.  Pegues says it’s an incredibly effective policy as their unexcused absence numbers have gone down by 70% and their attendance rates have gone up 30%.

CCC Student Drowns After Graduation

 

Statement from Coffeyville Community College:

 

It is with deep sympathy that we inform you of the loss of one of our own.  

Chase Dennis, a sophomore and student athlete at Coffeyville Community College, passed away this afternoon at an area lake while swimming with friends.  

“Each student at Coffeyville Community College is integral to the family dynamic of our campus.  To lose one of our own, greatly wounds us all”, said CCC President Linda Moley.

Four County Mental Health professionals have been brought in to assist our students, faculty and staff during this difficult time.  We are working with the family of Mr. Dennis and offering them our full cooperation in this time of immense sadness.

“He was a fantastic kid, hard-worker, and always did everything we asked him to do.  He was full of life and signed with Northwestern State University in Louisiana earlier this week”, said CCC Head Track Coach Craig Perry.

Kansas Selected For Drone Project

 

Kansas readies to pioneer the use of unmanned aircraft. The state is among 10-sites selected by federal transportation officials to serve as a test site for increased government and commercial use of drones. Senator Jerry Moran says the state is an aviation leader.  Moran notes Kansas is the first state to have unmanned traffic management in place for all state agencies, airports and higher education.

 

The drone program will run over a three year period. Oklahoma was also among the states selected.

SkillsUSA Honors Two From CCC

 

 

Coffeyville Community College sees two employees recognized during the opening ceremony of the 2018 SkillsUSA competition. CCC

 

Automotive Service Instructor Roy Shaffer was recognized for his years of service to SkillsUSA and his upcoming retirement from

 

education. CCC's Vice President for Business and Innovation Marlon Thornburg was presented the Post-secondary Administrator of the

 

Year Award.

 

 

CCC has been involved with SkillsUSA since the early 1970s.

 

 

 

 

***Thornburg on left

 

Roosevelt Middle School Nominated

 

 

USD 445’s Roosevelt Middle School was recognized as a finalist for Middle School of the year by KAMSA. Not only recognized as one of the finalist for Middle School of the year, Roosevelt Middle School was also recognized one of the 8 high performing schools in the whole state of Kansas. Which outlines outstanding performance in areas like attendance and behavior referral numbers Pegues says even though they didn’t win the award of Middle School of the year he is honored just to be recognized as a finalist. Pegues wants to thank the schools administrators and teachers for truly being the foundation of what has become an amazing district of schools. Having the teachers enjoy what they do, stick around longer has really shown the long term effect on our schools and kids.

Pawn Shop Break-In

 

The Coffeyville Police Department is investigating a break-in at a pawn shop. Coffeyville Gold & Silver and Pawn on 9th Street was broken into early this morning. The front window was smashed and a front display case was broken and completely cleared out.

 

If you have any information call CPD at (620)251-6160.

 

CPD K-9 Gets Bullet Proof Vest

 

A donation gives some protection to a member of the Coffeyville Police Department. K-9 Rommel now has a bullet-proof vest courtesy of the Humane Society of the United States and an anonymous donor.

 

According to Kansas Senior State Director for HSUS Midge Grinstead the donor provided funding for 54 vests for Kansas K-9’s. CPD says they are grateful to this donor and to HSUS.

CPD Looks To Update Police Units

 

The Coffeyville Police Department gets the go-ahead to purchase two new patrol units. Chief Kwin Bromley says the department has a replacement plan to keep vehicles updated on a regular basis.  With approval from the city commission, Cheif Bromley plans to purchase a new Dodge Charger Police Interceptor from Quality Motors in Independence.

 

The department will also buy a used Chevy Tahoe from the Kansas Highway Patrol to be used by the K-9 Officer.

Ranew's Ribbon Cutting

 

John Deere helps recruit a new business to the Coffeyville Industrial Park.  Ranew's Bryant Beeland says there was a couple of things that went into choosing to come here

 

 

Ranew's is a Georgia based company that deals in industrial coating and they are located in the Industrial Park.

 

Beeland says they have already brought new jobs to the area but they hope they can bring more than just jobs.  He says they have a goal to double the size of the operation within 24 months.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guilty Verdict For Michael Bever

 
After four weeks of testimony, a Tulsa County Jury spends just four hours reaching a verdict in the murder trial of 19-year-old Michael Bever.  He was found guilty in the fatal stabbings of his parents and three siblings at the family's home.  The sentencing phase begins today to determine if he will have a chance at parole.  Bever and his brother, 21-year-old Robert, were charged with five counts of first degree murder in the deaths of their family members in July of 2015.
 
Robert Bever was 16-years-old at the time.
 

 

 

Shop Coffeyville for Mother's Day

 

 

With mother's day coming up this Sunday, it’s time now to look for that special gift. Have you forgotten to get a gift for Mother's Day? Is your mom a picky shopper? That list of excuses of not getting a gift could go on and on. Candy Westbrook of the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce says you don’t have to travel to find a unique gift as the Chamber has something to make shopping for mom easy this year. They offer “Chamber Bucks” which is a shopping certificate to 25 local business giving your mom the freedom to shop where she pleases. Instead of wasting gas money driving to Tulsa or O.K.C you can shop locally! Shopping at our great local business keeps the money here in our community and saves you the trip and money of traveling to major city. Make your Mother’s Day special for all the great moms out there and get her a gift here locally from all the great options in Coffeyville!

CMLP Reliability Recognized

 

Coffeyville Municipal Light & Power has earned the designation as a Reliable Public Power provider from the American Public Power Association.

 

The RP3 designation, which lasts for three years, recognizes public power utilities that demonstrate proficiency in four key areas: reliability, safety, workforce development and system improvement. Criteria include sound business practices and a utility-wide commitment to safe and reliable delivery of electricity. CMLP joins more than 240 public power utilities nationwide that hold the RP3 designation.

 

Two Fires at Arco Building

 

Independence Police Chief Jerry Harrison says he has turned over the investigation into the recent fires at the Independence Corporate Office to the Kansas State Fire Marshal's Office.

 

The first fire occurred Friday afternoon on the north end of the fifth floor. Firefighters followed the smoke from the third floor to the fifth floor, where the fire was extinguished and smoke was cleared from the building.

The second fire occurred on the same floor on Monday afternoon. This time, the fire was discovered on the south end of the fifth floor.

 

Fire Chief Shawn Wallis says the fire was extinguished and smoke was cleared from the building using positive pressure fans. No injuries were reported, and offices in the corporate office building were cleared of staff and customers.

UPDATE:Keys Found On Turkey Farm Road Returned to Owner

 

A set of keys were found this morning on Turkey Farm Road. The keys appear to go to a Honda vehicle.  They have been turned into KGGF Radio. If you are missing some keys, we ask you to tell us what the retail tag that is on the key ring.  

 

The keys can be claimed in person at our studio, 306 West 8th Street.  You may also call 620-251-3800. Our business hours are 8:30 am to 5 pm. 

 

UPDATE:  The owner of the keys has been found and they have been returned.

New Top Cop Named For Sedan

 

There's a new chief in Sedan. Officer Kirk Richardson has taken the oath of office to serve as the Chief of Police for the City of Sedan. Nathan Rees is resigning effective May 28th to pursue a law degree. Rees will serve as a police office through May 27th.

 

The Sedan City Council voted this week to appoint Richardson to the chief's post.

Cville Commissioners Approve Purchase Of Electricity

 

Coffeyville City Commissioners agree to move forward with the purchase of supplemental power from the Southwestern Power Administration. Electric Utility Director Michael Shook says by law the administration only sells to municipalities and rural electric cooperatives.   Commissioners voted 4-to-zero in favor of the power sales contract. Commissioner Jim Taylor was absent from the meeting.

 

Shook says the purchase of the additional electricity helps reduce demand on the Grand River Dam Authority and local generation.

Montgomery County Backs The Blue 5K

 

 

Montgomery County Backs the Blue 5K run and Community day returns this Saturday to Independence. The Montgomery County Backs the Blue 5K race official start up is at 9am, but registration for the event is at 7:30. Other events include a one mile fun run, “Donut Dash” which starts at 8:30. Lisa Wilson from the Independence Chamber of Commerce says the chamber will be out there doing face painting and dunk a cop. Vendors will also be attending and members of all emergency services will be there for a meet and greet at the Riverside Park Oval this Saturday. Mark the calendars and start Emergency services appreciation week right by supporting Montgomery County Backs the Blue 5K and Community day this Saturday in Independence!

Stamp Out Hunger

 

A nationwide food drive by the National Association of Letter Carriers. 75 million pounds of food and feeding over 64 million people. This is the 26th year for this food drive and over the 25 previous years they have collected around 1.6 billion pounds of food.

 

The Salvation Army's Terri Barrett says it is really easy to donate foodBarrett says bags will be delivered in your mail sometime this week. She says you can fill the bags with nonperishable and nonglass items and they'll be picked up on Saturday.

Commissioners Hear From Hospital CEO

 

The Chief Executive Officer of Labette Health meets with Montgomery County Commissioners. Brian Williams wanted to express appreciation for the taxpayer support they've received and provide an update on the Independence operations.  In other business, Public Works Director Robert Bever provided updates on plans for the 2018 Chip and Seal project, the noxious weed fund, and received approval to purchase two new flex-wing mowers.

 

G&G Dozer of Caney was also awarded a demolition contract for a structure on West 17th Street.

 

 

Introducing the Quack Clash!

 

 

With the Coffeyville Community College scholarship auction all wrapped up, what’s the next great way to get involved and support your Red Ravens? From C.C.C, Yvonne Hull tells KGGF News they’ve got something new planned for June.The Quack Clash! A rubber duck race taking place over at Veterans Stadium in Coffeyville. You can sign up at www.coffeyvile.edu to purchase your duck to participate. Ducks cost 10 dollars a piece and there is no limit on how many you can buy, and best of all, the proceeds are going to C.C.C. programs. The Coffeyville Police Department and the Coffeyville Fire Department will also be attending as well, selling refreshments and food as you can purchase those items to help support our community emergency services. Food and beverage vendors, a duck race for a good cause and a hefty payout to the winners of the races is just three of the many reasons to get involved coming up on June 9th from 4 to 8 pm.

 

Update: Coach Flores Improving After Transplant

 

A long road to recovery continues this for Coffeyville Community College Football Coach Aaron Flores. The coach was flown by medical transport to Omaha in March where he underwent a double-lung transplant. He tells KGGF News, in an exclusive interview, he was able to get a weekend pass to return to Coffeyville.

 

While he returns to Omaha today, he plans to be back in Coffeyville full-time in June. Flores is looking forward to returning to the sideline as the head coach for Raven Football, as well. He says he and his family are very grateful for all the support they've received from the college and the entire community.

Good Turn-Out For CCC Auction

 

Hundreds gather Saturday evening for the CCC Scholarship Auction at Nellis Hall.

 

Those attending were able to bid on a number of items including a John Deere Lawn tractor, a George Brett autographed batting helmet, and a custom-built gaming computer. There were also numerous silent auction items. Those attending enjoyed the Cinco de Mayo themed party with a buffet of Mexican cuisine. All proceeds raised from the event go to support scholarships for Red Raven students.

Blex: Budget Picture Improves For Kansas

 

After several lean years, lawmakers may be seeing a brighter future financially for Kansas. Representative Doug Blex, an Independence Republican, says not only is the state meeting fiscal projections, there are surplus dollars.

 

While many at the statehouse were hoping to use the numbers to cut taxes, the measure before the Kansas House failed to garner enough votes.  Blex is pleased some budget areas that have been neglected will receive some additional funds.

On The Path Of Butterflies

 

A college student visits the area on a 20-thousand mile trek to study milkweed. While many farmers want to rid the weed from their pastures, Megan Reich thinks it could be key to the conservation of monarch butterflies. The graduate student in Earth Sciences at the University of Ottawa in Canada, is writing her thesis on the ecology and conservation of monarch butterflies. Her research includes collecting and analyzing milkweed samples. Her project began in Texas on April 5 and will end on June 21 in New York following the northern migration path of the monarch.

 

She plans obtain milkweed samples from 120 sites along the way.

Coffeyville Drag Races Give Back

 

 

The Coffeyville Drag Races over at the industrial park wrapped up their spring races a few weekends ago. Brooke Brown from the Coffeyville Chamber says it was a huge success having around 2800 visitors, and that they do something very special with the proceeds. The proceeds are not only distributed to the winners of the races, but they also give money back right to the community. As they look to give out to the emergency services throughout Montgomery County and have already supplied radios to Coffeyville E.M.S from previous years. Kim and Trey Maxon, two organizers of the event wanted to thank everyone who attended. They also say they have not only their fall time races scheduled for September 29th , but something new planned for late July on the 28th and 29th. Bringing more people to our community and businesses, giving the proceeds back to the community and having fun while doing it. Mark your calendars and be apart of the next Coffeyville Drags!

 

Scholarship Auction Set For Tonight

 

It is auction night at Coffeyville Community College.  The annual auction includes a dinner, silent auction, and live auction. Some of the items include a Kansas City Weekend Get-Away, Ravens Golf Cart, John Deere mower and more. Doors open at 4:30.  

 

The auction is is in Nellis Hall on the campus Of Coffeyville Community College. 

Applications Sought For Alcohol & Drug Fund Grants

 

The City of Coffeyville announces applications are being accepted for the Alcohol and Drug Fund Grants. The State of Kansas created an Alcoholic Liquor Fund from taxes paid on alcohol purchases. One-third of the money Coffeyville receives goes to the general fund, one-third goes to parks and recreation, and the final one-third goes to a special alcohol and drug program fund. That money is designated for education and prevention of alcohol and drug abuse.  The amount available for grants is $30,973.72.

 

Applications are available at coffeyville.com. The deadline to apply is May 31st .

Nanyehi Opens Tonight At Hard Rock

 

Nanyehi, the story of Nancy Ward, opens tonight at the Joint inside Tulsa's Hard Rock Hotel and Casino. The musical is the story of the 5th great grandmother of Nashville recording artist and Bartlesville native, Becky Hobbs.  The musical will have a performance tonight and tomorrow night, both at 7:30.

 

Hobbs also has strong ties to Coffeyville. Her grandparents owned Hobbs Boats and Motor. Her aunt and uncle ran Goldie's Donuts.

Rail Overpass Sign Final Design Unveiled

 

KGGF News has an update on the railroad overpass improvement in Independence. The final design was unveiled by Amy Taylor to the public at the First Friday gathering. The Watco Bridge over Pennsylvania Avenue facelift has been in the works for several years by the R-Turn Group in Independence.

 

The plans recently received approval from all the parties involved to move forward with the signage to welcome visitors to Independence.

C.P.D With More Reports of Counterfeit Bills and Checks

 

 

Funny money is back! And it’s not just dollar bills. Coffeyville Police Chief Kwin Bromley tells KGGF News he has had reports of now checks being faked and being passed. Bromley says he’s gotten more and more reports of funny money around town and says scammers are getting smarter every time. Washing checks, hiding counterfeit bills within a stack of valid ones, seemingly highlighting the bill to make it seem it's undergone a counterfeit pen, and many other ways scammers are evolving. Police Chief Bromley stresses to check your bills and checks now as these financial crimes are incredibly tough to solve and may be irreversible. It takes a few extra seconds to check over your bills even when you’re on the go or working hard. Bromley says if we start being extra conscious of the funny money now we can start taking these out of circulation, and it will be better for the town and town’s businesses.

Local FFA Programs Shine at State

 

Two local FFA programs finish first and second at the state livestock judging contests in Manhattan on Tuesday. Cherryvale took first place with 1550 points, while Caney Valley was the runner-up with 1523 points.

 

Cherryvale's, Dalton Flatt was a gold medalist individual champion and also placing in the top 10 from Cherryvale was Colben Dodson who placed fifth.  Caney Valley had two place in the top 10, Andrew Anderson finished seventh and Rhett Newby took second place. Newby also claimed first place in reasons.

Buddy Ball Returns!

 

 

Buddy Ball is back! The recreation league for special needs individuals is starting back up at the end of this month! Buddy Ball is a league that allows special needs individuals to not only interact with other people, but to also get out and play a sport they may love and truly can’t play alone. Brooke Brown of the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce tells KGGF News the league is looking for a volunteer to pitch! If  you may be interested in a great cause you can call 620-251-5910, and go out and play some ball with individuals that otherwise might not be able to play baseball with others. Brooke says she is very happy to have such an amazing group and league in a town as small as ours. The league's official start is the on the 29th of May so call soon and get involved with a great league!

Public Storm Shelters

 

Storm season is here and for this area that means tornadoes. Coffeyville Fire Chief Bob Roesky says there are six storm shelters in town that are for public use.  Meanwhile in Independence, Chamber of Commerce Director Lisa Wilson says they have four public use shelters.

 

If you have your own private shelter in Coffeyville make sure to register that online at coffeyville.com and in Independence you can call the city to register your shelter.

Coffeyville Farmers' Market Opens

 

For the gardeners with the early crops, the Coffeyville Farmers’ Market opened yesterday at Walter Johnson Park. Vendors will set up just north of the playground area, on Tuesdays form 4-7 p.m., or until produce runs out. On Saturdays, the market is open from 7-11 a.m. just across from the Rec Center.

 

Details about the Farmers’ Market are available on the city’s webestite.

Unclaimed Property in Coffeyville

 

Kansas State Treasurer Jake LaTurner and his staff were in Coffeyville yesterday to assist people with searching for unclaimed property. If you missed the meeting with them, you can check the State Treasurer’s website, the link can be found on the web version of this story at kggfradio.com.

 

According to Treasurer LaTurner, there is $1.7 million in unclaimed property from Coffeyville. 

New Memorial For Independence!

 

 

The riverside park in Independence is finishing up a new memorial!  After years of fundraising and planning, the new veterans and war memorial should be finished by Memorial Day Weekend. One of the project directors Kathy Sheppard Tells KGGF News the group raised 250,000 dollars for the memorial, put a bunch of hard work into it and are eager for the unveiling. She says they think it’s something not only people in Independence will enjoy but people from all over the country can come out to see. Years of fundraising and planning has finally paid off. The memorial will contain of granite tablets containing specific information of a particular wars and events dating all the way back to Revolutionary War. An informative and a great quality memorial is coming to south east Kansas. The memorial will be located at Riverside Park in Independence straight east of the stadium in the grass square.

CRMC Names New CEO

 

New Head of Hospital. The Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Board of Directors announces Lori Rexwinkle, MSN, as the new Chief Executive Officer. Rexwinkle has been at CRMC since 2000. She began her career as a registered nurse, moved to infection control and employee health, and was promoted to Director of Quality in 2009. She became the Chief Nursing Officer in 2011. She is also an adjunct professor at Coffeyville Community College.

 

Prior to CRMC, Rexwinkle worked as a CNA and staff nurse at Labette Health. She worked as a RN at the Montgomery County Health Department, and as a cardiac care nurse at Freeman Health System. Rexwinkle received her Master of Science in Nursing Education from Southern Nazarene University in Tulsa, OK.

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