Substantial amounts of rain in the area have caused flooding. Nowata Police have closed main street due to flooding. If a road appears to have to much water on it turn around don't drown.

Independence is one of 25 communities selected through the Kansas Airport Improvement Program for funding the planning, construction, and rehabilitation of public airports. KDOT considered 119 project applications this year and granted $5 million to 41 projects.

The aviation industry has a $20.6 billion economic impact in Kansas and employs more than 92,000 people in the state. Plus, 94 percent of the state’s population is within 30 minutes of air ambulance operations.

KDOT Director of Aviation, Bob Brock said, “Not only has the program funded key improvements at local airports, but has helped create a statewide network that enhances both the health and economic well being of the entire state.”

The City of Independence projects to be paid for are the renovation of the South apron run up area at over $721,000 and their airport fuel systems at over $36,000.

The Parsons Area Community Foundation awarded more than $230,000 to several southeast Kansas agencies. More than forty proposals were reviewed and over 30 grants awarded to agencies within a 25 mile radius. Executive Director of Parsons Area Community Foundation, Joan Vitt, says the grants come from donations.

$12,000 was awarded to the Parsons Police Department for an ATV officer unit, $14,000 to the Curious Minds Discovery Zone for new building expansion and renovation, and $3,500 was granted to the Parsons Arboretum Foundation for phase four of a walking trail extension. Since the foundation was formed in 1996, they're awarded are up to $2 million.

A Southeast Kansas woman died after a four car crash involving 10 people in Crawford County last Friday night. The Kansas State Highway Patrol says the accident happened on US-69, about a mile north of K-47.

Irma Hughes, age 83, of Fort Scott, was heading northbound when her car rear-ended by another vehicle which pushed her car into the southbound lanes where it collided with a second car. Her car went into a ditch, and was hit by a third car which hit a tree. Hughes was pronounced dead just before midnight Friday. Three others were transported to the local hospital with injuries. 

Last week, area pastors, clergy, and church leaders met with at Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters for their first Coffee with the Clergy event. Joe Brooks, pastor of River of Life Tabernacle in Coffeyville, was there. He said they contributed a lot of great ideas, including city natives excited to give back. 

Joe said there were a lot of great ideas and some of the clergy were natives of Coffeyville who came back and are embracing the Reawakening vision and like so many of the leaders, want to give back to make Coffeyville great again.

QuikTrip is testing out a new feature in Kansas that will make your life a little easier. The gas station and convenience store company has rolled out carside delivery at a few stores around Tulsa. According to the signs, customers will be able to call a number and have their order brought out to their pump.

The Washburn Ichabod football team, athletic department and campus community are mourning the loss of Dwane Simmons, a junior mass media major from Lee's Summit, Missouri, who passed away early Sunday morning.

Washburn University will host a Candlelight Vigil on Tuesday, April 30th at the Kuehne Bell Tower at 7:00pm to honor Simmons. In case of rain, the vigil will be in the Memorial Union in Washburn rooms A and B, on the Washburn campus.

Two grants were approved for Juvenile Services by Montgomery County Commissioners yesterday for the 14^th Judicial District Community Corrections. The Department Director, Duane Powell gives us some detail - Click to hear him on the airwaves.

The two reinvestment programs including drug and alcohol and day program for suspended students are covered by a $112,000 grant, and the core programs such as intensive supervision, case management, and immediate intervention programs will be paid by a grant that is over $400,000.

This Saturday, May 4^th is the O.K. Kids Health-Safety Fair at Field Kindley High School Gymnasium. The Boys & Girls Club Keystone teen group is assisting with hosting Camp Blue Mission, a day camp with leadership development opportunities for youth: academic success, career preparation and community service. During the day camp, the youth of Boys and Girls club will show what is offered at the local club, and there will be a chance for some hands on learning and educational time.

Health informational activities will be there including immunizations, nutrition, exercise and drug and alcohol avoidance plus safety such as first aid, fire safety and personal safety guidelines.

It's this Saturday, 9am to noon at the high school gymnasium in Coffeyville. For more info, call 620-252-1576.

Jurassic Quest is coming to Wichita, KS this weekend starting Friday, May 3^rd. Go back in time 60 million years and see more than 80 living, walking, breathing animatronic dinosaurs. It will be at the Century II Convention Center, 225 W Douglas Ave. On Friday, it's from 3-8pm, and Saturday and Sunday it's 9am-8pm.

Active duty police, firefighters, paramedics as well as all active and in-active military personnel, their spouses and kids save $2 on each ticket. Metered parking is only 25 cents per every two hours or you can park free south of the Expo Hall. For tickets, go online to jurassicquest.com.

Senator James Lankford has been on tour in Oklahoma over recent weeks and a common topic among constituents has been drug abuse. The opioid epidemic has been well chronicled locally, but Lankford siad the use of methamphetamine has his attention as well. He said a major concern of his the addictiveness of opioids and he will continue to do subcommittee work with the National Institutes of Health to try to develop non-addictive alternatives.

Last year, Lankford supported a $2 billion bill for funding to be provided to the National Institute of Health for medical research. The bill also provided important provisions to ensure greater transparency in the institute's spending to eliminate waste and ensure tax dollars are only spent on prudent scientific research.

In conjunction with Coffeyville's Reawakening, a downtown revitalization community survey is underway and available for the public. It's purpose is to learn what the top economic development priorities are for downtown and capital improvement projects. The 7-question survey also asks about innovative ideas for a successful downtown, including activities and events of interest.

Get your copy - CLICK HERE - or from the city website, coffeyville.com, pick up copies for yourself and others you know at the Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters, 115 W. 9^th or Chamber of Commerce, 807 Walnut, or City Clerk, 102 W. 7th. The deadline to submit your survey is May 15^th.

Donors of all blood types are urged to give now to help meet the needs of trauma patients and others with serious medical conditions. Make an appointment to donate blood by downloading the free Red Cross Blood Donor App, visiting RedCrossBlood.org or calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767).

Allen
Iola
5/14/2019: 11:30 a.m. - 5:30 p.m., Allen County Regional Hospital, 3066 N Kentucky
5/15/2019: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Allen County Regional Hospital, 3066 N Kentucky
5/23/2019: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Iola Public Library, 218 E. Madison
_______________
Chautauqua
Sedan
5/13/2019: 1 p.m. - 6 p.m., Sedan Community Building, 1000 N. Montgomery
_______________
Cowley
Arkansas City
5/10/2019: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Central Christian Church, 206 W Central

Winfield
5/9/2019: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 1000 Millington
_______________
Crawford
Frontenac
5/17/2019: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Eagle Beverage, 250 N Cayuga St
 
Pittsburg
5/8/2019: 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., Kansas Crossing Casino, 1275 S. Highway 69
5/21/2019: 1 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., Countryside Christian Church, 1901 East 4th
5/22/2019: 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Countryside Christian Church, 1901 E. 4th
_______________
Labette
Oswego
5/10/2019: 12 p.m. - 6 p.m., Oswego Senior Center, 723 Commercial
_______________
Montgomery
Coffeyville
5/16/2019: 11:45 a.m. - 6 p.m., First Baptist Church, 304 W. 9th
5/17/2019: 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., First Baptist Church, 304 W. 9th
_______________
Neosho
Chanute
5/8/2019: 12:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 200 S. Lincoln
5/9/2019: 8 a.m. - 1 p.m., First United Methodist Church, 200 S. Lincoln
_______________
Wilson
Buffalo
5/1/2019: 8:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m., Altoona Midway High School, Rt. 1 Box 45, Hwy 75
 
Fredonia
5/10/2019: 11 a.m. - 4:30 p.m., Sacred Heart Catholic Church, 1201 Madison St.

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit RedCrossBlood.org or call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) to make an appointment or for more information. All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Derek Schmidt has served as Kansas Attorney General since 2011. During his tenure, the attorney general’s office has renewed and expanded the focus on prosecuting crimes against children and combating the scourge of human trafficking.  The Kansas Children’s Service League (KCSL) on Friday presented Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt with the organization’s highest honor, the Distinguished Service to Children Award, at its annual meeting at the Wichita Marriott Hotel. The award is presented by KCSL to individuals or organizations determined to be “outstanding crusaders for children and families.” KCSL is an advocacy organization dedicated to providing services and advocacy efforts that focus on preventing child abuse, strengthening families and empowering parents and youth..

“It’s an honor to receive this recognition from an organization that has made such a strong, positive impact on the lives of so many children across Kansas,” Schmidt said. “I want to thank the Kansas Children’s Service League and look forward to continuing to partner with them to help Kansas kids in the future.”

The return of Cherry Blossom! The Annual Festival held in Logan Park up in Cherryvale comes up this weekend. Jesse Reed with the Cherryvale Chamber of Commerce says all the activities get started Friday night. Starting at 5PM in Logan Park up in Cherryvale, it will include music by Worship Calling, you can visit the many vendors and games though Jesse Reed with the Chamber says the majority of the events will be Saturday starting with a 5K.

Saturday includes a 5K first thing in the morning, a car show, some food eating contests as well as other games for the kids and adults. For more information on registration for the 5K or Car show visit their website at www.cherryvalechamberofcommerce.org or by calling 620-205-9808. Reed has seen this event through the years and can vouch for how fun this event truly is for all ages and encourages you and the family come out!

INTEGRIS Miami Hospital will close its senior adult mental health unit, known as Generations, at the end of May. Over the past couple of years, the hospital says Generations has averaged only seven patients per day. Officials say that is not a high enough volume to continue to dedicate the amount of space and staffing required to keep the unit operational. 

Patients needing the specialized care will be served by inpatient facilities in Joplin and Vinita or by telehealth services offered at area nursing homes.

A couple of busy days in Coffeyville this weekend. Several events will be going on tomorrow including Making an Impact 5K Run at Pfister Park benefitting Tyro Christian School. Daylight Defenders Lions Club Pancake Day at the First Baptist Church from 7:00am to 10:30am. Five dollars for pancakes, sausage, coffee, juice or milk. Proceeds go to the Coffeyville Recreation Commission scholarship fund. The Legislative Coffee at the Sleep Inn starts at 9:00am and goes until 10:30am and is sponsored by the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce. Legislators attending include Senator Dan Goddard, Representative Jim Kelly, Representative Rich Proehl and Representative Doug Blex. The Coffeyville Street Drags at the industrial park, gates will open at 9:00am, racing begins at 11:00am, and the cost is $10 a person, $5 for ages 6-10 and free for 5 and under.

The weekend's events wrap up on Sunday with the kids fishing tournament at LeClere Park. 1:00pm registration, 1:30pm until 3:00pm for the fishing and at 3:00pm the event will conclude with hot dogs and award presentation.

Joe Brooks of the Salvation Army and River of Life Tabernacle Church has a newly recorded song that is going national, to be played across the United States! The name of the song is based one of their slogans that the daughter of founder William Booth, Evangeline, came up with herself. Here's Joe's song, Doing the Most Good.

Salvation Army is planning to use Joe's song to promote their Christmas Kettle Campaign, and we can plan to hear it on TV and radio commercials across the country. Congratulations, Joe! 

Click the following to hear two others songs by Joe recorded at KGGF:

1. Coffeyville's Reawakening for 150th Anniversary
2. A Choice to Rejoice - Joe said blessings and miracles happen when we rejoice in the midst of calamity and hardship.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran of Kansas and Kansas Senate President Susan Wagle released statements this morning after the Kansas Supreme Court announced its decision against passing pro-life legislation. Moran said he is “saddened by the decision, that “an unborn child is a distinct human being” and that there is an “urgent need” for our federal laws to defend a baby's right to life at all stages.

The pro-life legislation turned down by ther Kansas Supreme Court is also supported by Kansas Senate President Susan Wagle who disagrees with the Supreme Court that the state's constitution protects the mother's choice. She said “nowhere in our state constitution is there a right to the violent act of abortion” and that “it protects our inalienable rights" which are in the Declaration of Independence - the right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

The pro-life legislation has been sent back to the District Court of Shawnee County for more hearings. 

Mother’s Day Crafts! A perfect gift to give your mom this year on Mother’s Day; is heading to the Coffeyville Recreation Commission. Christine Lay says they are hosting a Mother’s Day Crafts Course.

Lay mentioned it will cost 8 dollars for anyone inside USD 445 and 10 dollars for those out of district. She did want to also remind everyone, just a few days after on the 14th will be their Mother Daughter Tea Party, and again to register head to coffeyvillerec.com or 620-251-5910.

Very similar to the Daddy Daughter Ball but more focused on women's interest,  Lay says the girls will get to enjoy the latest Mary Kay Cosmetics, take photos and enjoy some sweet snacks. It will cost 6 dollars inside USD 445 district and 8 dollars for individuals outside. You must register by May 10th and can do so by calling 620-251-5910 or by heading to coffeyvillerec.com.

Spring:  flowers booming; birds singing; and yard sales growing like weeds.  The City of Coffeyville reminds residents that permits are needed for those holding garage or rummage sales and auctions in Coffeyville.  The permits cost $3.00 and are good for three days.  They can be purchased in the Customer Service Department or City Clerk's Office, located at 102 W. 7th Street.  

Churches and non-profit groups are not required to have a permit.

The Kansas Dental Charitable Foundation hosts the 18th Kansas Mission of Mercy free dental clinic at the Robert W. Plaster Center at Pittsburg State University.  The clinic doors open at 5:30 a.m. Friday and Saturday.  There are no appointments or reservations and patients will be seen on a first come, first served basis. Treatment options include fillings, extractions, and dental hygiene. Organizers plan to treat an estimated 1,600 patients during the two-day dental clinic.  Among the dentists taking part is Dr. Cynthia Sherwood of Independence.  She has taken part in 21 Missions of Mercy in Kansas and other states. Support for the project comes entirely from donations and grants.  The project will cost nearly $160,000, but will leave behind approximately $1.2 million of donated dental care in return.

Celebrate 150! Many events will be happening throughout the year to go along with the 150th anniversary celebration. Chamber Director Candi Westbrook says up next is movie night. Hosted by the Midland Theater and The Chamber of Commerce, Westbrook says the event is taking place May 10th and is free of charge. There will be popcorn, and other games for the kids to play with, than after the sun goes down they will be playing The Wizard Of Oz. against the big wall in the parking lot at 8th and Elm

This is one of the many events throughout the year the chamber and other businesses will be hosting to honor the 150th anniversary celebration. Westbrook says to mark your calendar for June 1st as well for the big downtown celebration dinner, for more information call the chamber at 620-251-2550.

Blood donations are urgently needed. You might not realize how important certain letters are until they’re gone. A, B and O are the main blood groups, and when not enough people donate blood, hospital shelves may be empty when a critical patient arrives. Schedule your blood donation at Fredonia Blood Drive, to ensure this doesn’t become a reality. As a bonus you get a $5 amazon.com gift card via email, as a way of saying thanks during this urgent time. Don’t wait until the letters A, B and O go missing from the hospital shelves.

Schedule your appointment today by calling 620-378-5009, through the Blood Donor App or at redcrossblood.org.  Donors must have a valid email address on file to receive their reward.

The Johnson County, Kansas District Attorney's Office has declined to file charges against Kansas City Chiefs Wide Receiver Tyreek Hill and his fiance. DA Stephen Howe says he believes a crime occurred the evidence in the case doesn't clearly establish who committed the crime against the child.

According to police reports officers in Overland Park, Kansas were called to Hill's home on March 14^th to investigate an alleged battery in which a juvenile was a victim. Hill was not listed in the report but his fiance was.

Athletics opened a door of opportunity for Jim Bob Morris that may not have existed for a young man from a small town in Kansas. Morris is opening doors for future Coffeyville Community College students by leading the charge with a sizeable gift for momentous renovations and expansion of the Dick Foster Athletic Complex. Morris syas he thinks the key element, is that he looks at Coffeyville as being a very inspirational and developing part of who he is today. He says coming from a very small town, and very small high school with only 11 students in my graduating class, CCJC offered and provided him an array of new perspectives of what he could accomplish and certainly made available opportunities that he dreamed about, but he wasn't sure how he was going to get there.

Morris played football for CCC before finishing his college career at Kansas State. He played pro football for a few years and now is the owner and president of several food packaging and ingredients companies, including Morris Packaging.

What's the difference between Medicaid Expansion and Medicare for All? Bernie Sanders' plan of "Medicare for All" would entirely eliminate Medicaid because just as it states, all people would be covered by Medicare. Currently Medicare is a medical plan only for senior citizens, and all taxpayers pay into it during our working years from our paychecks. It's Social Security or the FICA deduction.

A veteran of the Kansas legislature, Virgil Peck, says Medicare for All would either bankrupt our Nation or significantly increase taxes on all working Americans. Peck said Bernie's tweet reveals what many conservatives have said: Medicaid Expansion is a step in the wrong direction as it would make more people rely on the government, remove incentives for self-improvement, and is a step towards a single-payer, government healthcare system.

Let your legislators hear from you on this.

Kansas constituents go to kslegislature.org and Oklahoma's to oklegislature.gov.

A $25,000 donation from Coffeyville Resources or CVR Energy was paid to the Oklahoma Union Education Foundation. OKU gave a big shout out on their Facebook page. Thank you, CVR Energy for your generosity!

Image Credit:  David DeWitt    https://thecozycoffee.com/cappuccino-vs-latte/

Attention all area church pastors, ministers, and church leaders. Coffee With the Clergy is tomorrow morning at 10:00 at Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters, located at 115 W. 9th St. in Downtown Coffeyville. Chairperson Denise York said they are encouraging all church leaders in the surrounding area to come share the vision of making Coffeyville great again.

For more info, go to their Facebook page, Coffeyville's Reawakening. The headquarters is open, so drop in at 115 W. 9th St. Coffee With the Clergy, tomorrow morning, April 25th at 10:00. Call Denise now at 620-252.5861.

Grow your business web presence! That’s the latest workshop put on by the Montgomery County Action Council as Trisha Purdon explains what they went over. She explains their latest web workshop is designed to help businesses improve their web presence within online search engines, making it easier for people to find you online. They will also give tips on how to improve or create your company's website.

Purdon says they just completed their course in Independence and will be having the same here in Coffeyville in a couple of weeks. If you’d like more information you can call 620-331-3830 or to stay up to date with anything M.C.A.C, Purdon says to head to www.actioncouncil.com.

Organizers of Coffeyville’s Reawakening are in Coffeyville this week meeting with City Commissioners, community leaders and others to discuss plans and outline the movement.  One of those organizers, Bill Pratt spoke to the Rotary Club of Coffeyville Tuesday.  Pratt described Coffeyville’s Reawakening as grassroots that is a once in a generation opportunity for the community.

Pratt said that the reason he and other former Coffeyville residents have gotten involved in the movement is that the skills and values of caring for and leading people that have made them successful were values they learned while growing up in Coffeyville and they now want to give back.  He added that there are some important insights that are needed to make the movement successful and that’s a reawakening mindset of pride, enthusiasm and energy and working together as a cohesive community.

Pratt also spoke about some of the activities that are part of the movement including the largest fund-raising effort in Coffeyville’s history involving 50 years of Field Kindley High School graduating classes, creating tax incentives for investment in Coffeyville and working with federal legislators to secure federal funds.

Chairman Lester Gagan said the 14^th Annual Green Country Classic Ranch Rodeo will be in the Claremore Expo Center this Friday, April 26^th at 7:00 and Saturday the 27^th at 6:00. The center has a large facility Gagan says is good for the rodeo teams from Kansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. It's also suitable for the Cowboy Trade Show, which has free admission this Friday April 26^th from 3-10pm and also Saturday from 10am-10pm.

The JRRA Junior Ranch Rodeo will take place Saturday at noon, and tickets are $5 at the door. Green Country Classic Rodeo tickets are $10, purchased at the expo center or other locations including American Ank of Oklahoma (in Ramona), Mid America Farm and Ranch (in Talala), Reid Veterinary Clinic (in Nowata), Welch State Bank (in South Coffeyville) and Union State Bank (in Bartlesville).

A semi trailer carrying a wind turbine generator collapsed in Osage County on county road 4020. The road may be closed for three days as the broken-down, oversized semi is repaired. The generator itself weighs half a million pounds. The accident happened near Wind Farm about four miles north of Highway 60 south of Shidler on CR 4020.

Tonight at 6:30 (Tues, April 23rd), leaders of Coffeyville's Reawakening will have their second official meeting at the city commission meeting. City Manager Mark Hall told KGGF they are ready to meet after last week's public meeting called with their special counsel. Click to hear Hall on the airwaves about what the law firm will be helping to do with the Reawakening project.

Leaders of Coffeyville's Reawakening include the city's Legends & Legacies such Bill Pratt, Peggy Steele, Ron Oson, Bill Wade, Janie DeVore Gillis, Rick Thompson, and other Legends & Legacies of Coffeyville who love their hometown and doing all they can to make it great again. To get involved, contact the city at 620-252-6108.

Imagine receiving a letter in the mail from a local church you've never attended that says, “We may never meet you, but as an act of kindness in the name of Jesus Christ, your debt has been forgiven.” Pathway Church in Wichita took on a special task during Easter season. They paid off the medical debts for thousands of Kansans, a whopping total of $2.2 million for those categorized as experiencing financial hardship.

The church worked with RIP Medical Debt which purchases the debt for pennies on the dollar. They targeted 1,600 Kansans in financial hardship, 500 in the Wichita area. Pathway Church of Wichita said Jesus did the same thing on the cross when He declared 'it is finished.' Over 2,000 years ago, the debt of our sins, that we could not pay, were forgiven for those who believe in Him.

Find a Pathway Church location at pathwaychurch.com. 

Be on the lookout! With severe weather season upon us Kansas attorney general Derek Schmidt says there is a specific set of scammers that come along with it. Schmidt says unfortunately this is something that will happen more than you think especially to areas hit hard by damaging weather. He says to not abandoned common sense just with any other large purchase and get multiple bids, if it seems too good to be true it probably is, and to try to stick with local, known companies. If someone comes to your door with a high pressure sales pitch to replace your roof, you are advised to take a little more time and investigate the companies

Schmidt says the best place to check out companies if your feeling skeptical is online. They are required to register with the attorney general's office and will be listed at www.inyourcornerkansas.org.

Time for the kids to grab the fishing poles and head to LeClere Park.  The 27th Annual Youth Fishing Derby is this Sunday. There is no charge for this event.  Prizes will be awarded in each age division:  4-5, 6-8, 9-11, 12-16 and Buddy Bobbers.  The Buddy Bobbers is specifically designed for the angler with special needs and can have someone assist them throughout the derby.

Registration will be 1:00-1:30 pm. At 3:30 pm, there will bean awards dinner with free hot dogs, soda and chip while supplies last.

Anglers May use live bait or artificial, but they may only use one pole.  

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt said today his office is offering training sessions on human trafficking awareness for the hospitality, travel and tourism industry in Kansas City and Topeka on Monday, April 29^th and in Wichita Tuesday, April 30^th. The events are presented by the AG office and ECPAT-USA, an anti-trafficking policy organization.

Training includes defining human trafficking and commercial sexual exploitation of children. Identifying individuals who are most at risk for human trafficking, understanding the difference between labor and sex trafficking specific to the hotel, restaurant  and hospitality sector, and explaining the role of hospitality employees in responding to this issue.

Trainings are in Kansas City and Topeka. Registration is required. For details, go to visitkansascityks.com/education.

Montgomery County Commission met this morning. Agenda included continuation of reviewing what will be next year's budget, and Public Works Coordinator, Jim Wright, discussed with the board construction projects including a turn lane on 10^th Street.

They are also looking at adding yield signs at up to 50 intersections throughout Montgomery County. Because each intersection would need two yield signs for both directions, that's up to 100 signs at $50 each, so potentially $5,000 to be added to the budget.

A data entry position might be added to the budget for the County Attorney's office, and the job description is being reviewed to determine hours and salary.

If you have questions about the meeting, call the county clerk's office at 620-330-1200. Commissioners meet every Monday at 9:00 in the Judicial Center basement.

The Board of Osage County Commissioners met at the courthouse in Pawhuska this morning. With the Roy Clark Memorial Rodeo coming to the County Fairgrounds next weekend, Scott Trotter was there asking to give helicopter tours at the rodeo. Commissioners will allow it as long as the group shows proof of insurance.

The County Commissioners signed the inter-local with the city of Hominy to help fund their Emergency Medical Services. That would cost about $2,000.

They decided to to table the possibility of advertising bids to improve the Clarence Brantley Indoor Arena at the Osage County Fairgrounds including the entrances so they meet the Americans with Disabilities Act, and also includes shower remodels and toilet removals.

The meeting is every Monday at 10:00 in the Pawhuska courthouse. 

The Skiatook Chamber of Commerce invites you out to "3rd Thursday in the Park" on May 16 at Central Park. The fun includes live music, food trucks, and a variety of vendors. This is also an opportunity for area businesses to network and promote their products.

To be participate as a vendor or volunteer, contact Skiatook Chamber of Commerce at 918-396-3702 or email admin@skiatookchamber.com.

Legislation that increases speed limits on Oklahoma turnpikes and some state highways has been signed into law by Gov. Kevin Stitt. The bill signed by Stitt Thursday increases turnpike speed limits from 75 to 80 mph and from 70 to 75 mph on certain state highways. Rep. Daniel Pae of Lawton authored the bill and says he worked with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, the Oklahoma Turnpike Authority and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol.

Rep. Pae says the new speed limits will be implemented gradually and safely. Pae says lawmakers worked to ensure the safety of Oklahoma drivers while increasing highway speed limits. He says officials will use traffic and engineering studies on issues like traffic density and infrastructure quality to determine where speed limits can safely be increased.

The Tot Olympics are back! Making this the 30th anniversary of the event, as all special needs children ages 2 through 8 are invited to participate for free! Founder Teresa McVey explains what the kids will be doing this Thursday. Basketball goals, beanbag toss, and other races is something you can look forward to. The event takes place this Thursday at the Nellis Hall gymnasium at Coffeyville Community College. Going from 1 to 2:30 PM McVey hopes to see many there to assist when needed or to just cheer on the many participants.  To register McVey asks you fill out a from to bring the the event which can be found on Facebook or at the door of the event. For more information you can call her directly at 620-515-0675.

US Senator Jerry Moran’s county-by-county listening tour brings him to Independence.  The Manhattan Republican says the town halls are a chance for him to hear from his constituents. Economic development and trade were among the key points discussed. Veteran’s issues, Amtrak expansion, and funding for public libraries were some of the topics those attending had on their minds.  

After his stop in Independence, Senator Moran was off to Neodesha for a similar town hall meeting for Wilson County. 

Kansas has received its annual tobacco settlement payment totaling $55.9 million, Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced today. The $55,989,218.94 total, received yesterday, is consistent with the estimate that the attorney general provided last fall to the consensus revenue estimators.

Since the first payment was made in 1999, Kansas has received more than $1.1 billion from the participating tobacco manufacturers. The settlement payments are intended to offset the costs of tobacco-related illness and disease that are borne by Kansas taxpayers through government-paid medical benefits. The payments are made each year in accordance to a legal settlement that resolved claims made by 46 states, including Kansas, against the tobacco companies in the late 1990s.

A decision on the Tyson plant in Coffeyville will not be made until at least the Fall. Montgomery County Action Council's Trisha Purdon says Tyson will announce their decision whether or not to select a site north of Coffeyville.

While we wait to hear Tyson's announcement, the council is working with the City of Coffeyville on the site certification process. The facility would be in an industrial park north of the city, and they say it would provide several hundred jobs in southeast Kansas.

The Southeast Kansas Produce Auction hosted by Nichols Trading Post of Parsons starts in about one hour at 1:00. It's located four miles north of Dennis, Kansas. The address is 7305 20^th Rd, in the town of Galesburg. They will be selling Hanging Baskets, bedding plants, garden plants and much more. You can go online to their Facebook page for more info – Nichols Trading Post Discount Groceries Produce Auction.

Mushroom courses coming to the S.E.K. K State research and extension offices are hosting a couple  mushroom workshops later this month in Independence and Girard. Agent Jerri Geren explained when it’s all happening and the mushrooms you will get to go home with. The Independence course will be in the 4H building at the Riverside Park from 5:30 to 7:30 on April 29th, then the following day out at the Crawford County Fairgrounds again from 5:30 to 7:30. She mentioned you will come and learn the easy process of growing your own delicious Shiitake and Oyster Mushrooms, which you will get to take home your very own after the course. Geren says the course on the 29th takes place at the 4H building in Riverside Park,and on the 30th at the Crawford County Fairgrounds near Girard. To register or for more information you can call 620-331-2690 in Independence or 620-724-8233 for Girard.

Geren mentioned they will provide a few drills but if possible to bring your own corded drill with a 5/16 drill bit as well as a 7/17 bit.

Residents of Neodesha, you have one week to clean up your act.  The Spring Citywide Cleanup will be April 22-27th. The City of Neodesha will set up roll off dumpsters and other equipment for residents to use. Items can be dropped off at the city barn, 12-hundred Granby. Items should be placed in the appropriate container. City crews will not pick up items curbside. Items of wood, metal, appliances, tires and household trash can be taken to the brush dump, 5429 Quinter. 

Anyone who has questions may call 620-325–2831. 

Students from Coffeyville Community College will play the roll of the Easter Bunny for you. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says this is part of a program called “The Easter Bunny Came”.

Westbrook says it costs $20 and you can place your order on the website, a link to that website can be found on the online version of this story at kggfradio.com.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center honored their volunteers during Volunteer Appreciation Week. Those receiving service awards include Eileen Hough, 1 year; Shirley Conger, Carol Jean Kastler, Allan Osborn, and Janice Shue, 5 years; Wanda Purkey and Laura Robson, 10 years; Bob Armstrong, 15 years; and Beverly Hamlin, 40 years of service.

The 2019 CRMC Volunteer of the Year is Kenny Palone, who began volunteering at CRMC in 2016 after working for Union Pacific Railroad as an Engineer for 38 years. Palone says after his heart attack he felt so thankful for Dr. Gillis, Dr. Mehrle, and CRMC, they saved his life. He felt like he really needed to do something to show his appreciation and maybe help someone else.

Last night's severe weather left behind wind damage in Washington County. Emergency Management Director Kary Cox says that they have been getting calls about the damage since the storm blew through.

Quarter sized hail was reported during the storm, but Cox says no hail damage has been reported. He says currently there is no estimated cost of damage.  The Civitan Park shadow cover in Bartlesville was damaged beyond repair and Public Works Director Keith Henry says the city has no details on how that will be fixed at this time.

The Coffeyville Regional Medical Center Auxiliary was the host for the Hospital Auxiliaries of Kansas District 2 Meeting on Wednesday, April 4^th. Over 100 visitors enjoyed the day in Downtown Coffeyville, representing hospital auxiliaries from Fredonia, Pittsburg, Parsons, Columbus, El Dorado, Eureka, Garnett, Girard, Neodesha, and Winfield. The Hospital Auxiliaries of Kansas State President, Linda Staiger, from Liberal was also in attendance.

The CRMC Auxiliary welcomes anyone interested in joining to complete a volunteer application. Applications are available at the Auxiliary Desk at the CRMC Main Entrance, the Gift Shop, or in the Foundation Office. For more information, please Contact Director of Foundation and Volunteer Services Cari Redden at 620-252-1674.

Coffeyville Municipal Light & Power has earned the American Public Power Association’s Safety Award of Excellence for safe operating practices in 2018. The utility earned First Place in the category for utilities with 60,000 to 110,000 worker-hours of annual worker exposure. More than 325 utilities entered the annual Safety Awards, which is the highest number of entrants in the history of the program. Entrants were placed in categories and ranked based on the most incident-free records during 2018.

Coffeyville Director of Electric Utilities Mike Shook says CMLP is proud of its safety record, this award is a testament to the hard work that goes into ensuring that our team members go home safe to their families every day.

Have you heard of "Maundy" Thursday? Good Friday, we know. And Easter Sunday, of course. But what about the Thursday before Easter? It marks an important part of Holy Week, the day Jesus celebrated his final Passover with His disciples. At that Passover meal, Jesus washed the feet of His disciples, an extraordinary display of humility, and then Jesus commanded them to do the same for each other. Washing others' feet comes from traditions in biblical times when guests' feet were washed when entering a home because their feet were dirty from walking the sandy roads to their destinations. .

Maundy means “command”. In John Chapter 13, Verse 34, Jesus said to them, “A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another. Just as I have loved you, you also are to love one another.” This raised the definition of love to a new, highter standard - to love your enemies and share love to those who appear to not deserve it. Washing another's feet was a tradition of the times, but it's a great example of showing selfless love like Jesus when we serve one another as He commanded.

A Kansas woman will soon be on The Ellen DeGeneres Show for buying 204 pairs of shoes and donating them to Nebraska flood victims in early April. Addy Tritt will be on the show Monday, April 22. A show spokeswoman said that while Addy generously gives back to her community, she's actually in debt with student loans and her family helps buy her groceries. 

Addy said so many have helped her in the past and this is her way of paying it forward. She could not resist when the price of shoes at Payless in Hays dropped to $1 per pair, so she negotiated to buy all the remaining shoes for $100, but the retail value was more than $6,000. 

Maybe Ellen will help Addy pay off those student loans. She's a graduate of Fort Hays University. The Ellen DeGeneres Show airs Mon thru Fri, 4:00pm on CBS.

Last weekend, the Kansas Association of Mayors held their annual meeting. Overbrook Mayor Jon Brady was named the 2019 Mayor of the Year, selected for his dedication to his community.  Also, KMA's President for 2019-20 is the City of Lansing Mayor Mike Smith.

If you'd like to know more about KMA, to online to their website here or call 785-354-9565.

The Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve's next big event is May 18^th, the Spring Trail Ride. Shane Lenihan from Woolaroc says its a unique experience not many have and describes it. Click here to hear Shane on KGGF talk about it.

Yep, lunch and dinner are included. You'll have to take your own horse for the trail ride though, and tickets are $50 per person. Shane tells us something else unique about the food at Woolaroc. Listen to him here.

The trail ride is Saturday, May 18^th starting at 10:00 in the morning and it ends about 5:00. Riders can even camp out the Friday night before. You are encouraged to experience the beauty of the rolling Osage Hills, and will likely see buffalo, elk, deer, and longhorn cattle along the trails of this spectacular country retreat of oilman Frank Phillips. For more info, call 918-336-0307 x10.

A helicopter will drop 77,777 Easter eggs at Sooner Park in Bartlesville this Saturday the 20^th, sponsored by Spirit Church. It's a FREE egg hunt for ages zero thru 5^th grade. Eggs will have a treat in them and some eggs will have a special prize. All activities are free including inflatable jumpy houses, face painting, and take your camera to take free photos with the Easter Bunny. The event is from 9:30am to 1pm.

Concessions are open until 2pm, and there will also be food trucks. All children must be registered and issued an arm band. Online registration is closed but you may register onsite at Sooner Park, SE Madison Blvd. Easter egg bags will be provided, but kids may take their own baskets, and you may take your own lawn chair. For more info, contact Spirit Church: 918-336-1131.

A Coffeyville Police Officer K9 Unit was involved in an accident with a Caney Valley School bus. According to Kansas Highway Patrol Trooper Rick Wingate the CPD officer hit the bus on Highway 166 between Caney and Tyro and the officer has been taken to the hospital. The highway is closed and the crash is under investigation.

USD 436 Superintendent Blake Vargas says it was their Bus 1 involved in the crash, all kids are safe and accounted for and no major injuries at this time.

*photo courtesy of Washington County Storm Chasers Facebook*

The Neosho County Sheriff's Office is investigating burglaries that took place between April 11^th and April 16^th in Thayer, St. Paul and Erie. If anyone has any information regarding these crimes, please call 620-244-3888.

With the nicer weather, burglaries and thefts tend to rise. Remember to keep your property locked and report any suspicious activity. It is helpfull to get tag numbers or use your cell phone to get a photo of suspicous vehicles or individuals, if it can be done safely.

April 19^th through April 20^th, the Independence Police Department will join other Law Enforcement agencies in Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Arkansas, Missouri and Oklahoma to stop what has been an increasing epidemic for the past several years. Deaths and injuries continue to increase from both alcohol and drugged impaired drivers. In an effort to change this trend, law enforcement across the six-state area will be extra-vigilant when patrolling around city, state and federal highways. Regardless whether a drug is legal or illegal it’s a serious crime to drive while impaired by any drug. Officers will issue citations to any individual who refuses to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for driving while impaired, for speeding, texting, or failing to buckle up.

Chief Harrison says even one death is unacceptable. Please don’t drive while impaired, slow down, put the phone away or turn it off, and always buckle up.

No more vaping in Oklahoma public schools. On Monday, April 15^th Governor Kevin Stitt signed into law Senate Bill 33, otherwise known as the Tobacco-Free Schools Act. After conducting a study last fall, Owasso’s Senator J.J. Dossett filed legislation to ban all tobacco products, including vaping. It includes noncombustible devices as well as the cartridges even if they do not contain nicotine. Studies show kids get addicted to nicotine which can harm their still-developing brains, such as decision making and impulse control.

Senator Dossett says it's not just nicotine that's the problem because the aerosol in e-cigarettes contain other “alarming” chemicals such as Diacetyl used in the flavoring that's linked to an irreversible and serious lung condition called “obliterative bronchiolitis”. Findings published in an American Heart Association journal suggests that e-cigarette flavorings may damage blood vessels and the heart and found pyrazine additives in ecigarettes. Heavy metals including nickel, chromium, cadium, tin, aluminum, and lead have been found and can cause cancers of the lung, sinuses, and mouth.  Studies are also looking at how secondhand vapors effect people.

At the same time, there are critics including leaders and scientists who say studies prove smokeless tobacco has lowered incidences of cancer and has reduced smoking. Professor Martin Jarvis of University College London is a leading international authority on nicotine psycho-pharmacology, said the following:

“The evidence of a pronounced health benefit from oral tobacco is very strong and can no longer be ignored. The consumption of nicotine through snus in Sweden has greatly reduced smoking, and that in turn has caused a significant reduction in the cancer, cardiovascular disease and lung damage caused by smoking. It makes no sense scientifically or ethically to deny access to this much less dangerous alternative to cigarettes to smokers elsewhere in Europe.

Some say its just bad vaping science, and perhaps a way to help the dinosaurs of the smoking industry. What do you think? Comment below!

Two southeast Kansas law enforcement agencies are teaming up to form the area's newest drug task force aimed at fighting illegal narcotics. Monday night, the Parsons city commission approved its formation including staff from the Parsons Police Department and the Labette County Sheriff's Office.

Parsons police chief Robert Spinks says the team will be made up of a commander and detective from the Parsons Police Department, along with a detective from the Labette County Sheriff's Office. He plans to hire a commander and has already talked with more than two dozen potential applicants. If interested in the position, call 620-421-7060.

Get your Easter Baskets! Independence Chamber of Commerce director Lisa Wilson mentioned that many businesses and services will be closed down in observance of Good Friday this week, and that very next morning will be the community Easter Egg Hunt! Lisa Wilson explained ages 1-9 will be hunting and mentioned different age groups will go at different times as well as difficulties, to avoid one big rush. The event will take place this Saturday April 20th at 3PM out at the Riverside Park Oval. Wilson encourages parents to remember their cameras on that afternoon as she mentioned the Easter Bunny will be in attendance to take pictures with.

Coffeyville's special counsel needed for the Coffeyville's Reawakening project. City Commissioners and leaders are holding a special meeting at the regular commission room this Wednesday at 5:30pm.

They are planning to execute a special counsel engagement letter with Gilmore & Bell for the rehabilitation of commercial properties in Coffeyville's downtown area. Everyone is welcome to attend at Coffeyville's City Hall.

The U.S. Army Rock Band will perform a free concert Thursday, April 18, from noon to 2:00 at Pittsburg State University in the Bicknell Family Center for the Arts, 1711 S. Homer. The concert is open to the public.

It's National Dispatchers' Appreciation week, a time to acknowledge those that work behind the scenes to get us emergency services. Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves said they think of it as a hub of a wheel - law enforcement and emergency responders are like spokes going out to help the community.

When dispatchers receive accurate information, they are able to the send the right resources to the right place at the right time. Dispatchers are always one call away for 911 calls. Last year, the southeast Kansas office answered more than 69,000 dispatch calls. 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly has selected a Chanute man to fill a vacancy on the Neosho County Commission. David Orr, president and CEO of Big Creek Investment Corporation, was selected from a field of eight applicants. David is expected to sign the oath of office soon and will officially be the Neosho County Commissioner for District 2.

A free Easter celebration breakfast with live music is at the Joplin Family YMCA this Friday the 19^th. The band, Zion's Crown, will be playing and Dianne Carder will be singing. Fellowship Baptist Church musicians will also be performing, including a harpist.

The breakfast will be catered by their local Tropical Smoothie Cafe. The free breakfast and musical celebration is at the Joplin Y, 3404 W. McIntosh Circle from 8-10am. Any questions, call Dianne Carder at 417-770-5406. 

The Kansas Democratic Party is helping people get involved for the next elections. Across the state, training sessions are being held on how to take a political stand and help the campaigns. In Pittsburg last Sunday, people learned why a person runs for election, the campaign process, and the requirements to run. Presenters discussed the different jobs and volunteer positions. 

The political director for the Kansas Democratic Party, Lauren Martin, travels across Kansas to talk to those who are active or running for office. Training sessions are being held in Wichita, Hayes, Great Bend, and Dodge City. If interested, email Lauren at lauren@kansasdems.org or call 785-234-0425.

The Southeast Kansas Humane Society's resale store, The Doggie Bag is hosting the 2nd Annual Rummage for Rescue. In the lot behind the store, several of the items were discounted, and inside the store, the bargains continued with buy one, get one free and kids clothing at 25 cents a piece. 

The Doggie Bag relies heavily on donations to the store as well as people coming in to shop, which employees say is all thanks to the Pittsburg community.  The Rummage for Rescue event coincides with the Pittsburg city-wide garage sale. Check them out on Facebook, "The Doggie Bag SEK". 

 U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) today announced he will participate in a Senate Committee on Environment and Public Works field hearing in Glenwood, Iowa on Wednesday, April 17. The field hearing will focus on the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers’ river management following devastating flooding throughout the region and in northeast Kansas. 

Among the witnesses are a Doniphan County Kansas attorney, Joel Euler, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Deputy Commanding General Scott Spellmon, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Chief of the Missouri River Basin Water Management Division, John Remus, Hamburg IA Mayor Cathy Crain, and Farmer and Community Advocate Leo Ettleman.

It's this Wednesday, April 17^th at 8:30am at Kaufman Hall, 24116 Marian Avenue, Glenwood, IA 51534. Media are invited to attend and need to RSVP to press@ernst.senate.gov.

Coffeyville firefighters tore cars with their axes and tools to remove their tops Monday morning, practicing for any future emergency requiring people to be removed from vehicle fires and accidents. Body Builder Wrecker Service donated the cars for their annual training.

Because of an overwhelmingly positive response to the City of Independence’s free dumpster initiative “60 Days to a More Beautiful Independence,” the city is extending the program an extra month. The program provides free dumpster access for city residents each weekend at six alternating neighborhood location throughout the community. David Cowan, the city’s director of Safety and Code Enforcement, reports nearly 27 tons of waste have been collected in the first six weeks of the program. He said city staff views the response as a huge success and a positive first step toward accomplishing the objectives of the city’s recently adopted community based strategic plan, which includes a key initiative established to address beautification.

“The dumpster program and the incredible amount of participation we have seen so far represent a win-win for residents and the city organization,” Cowan said. “It’s great to see residents taking pride in their properties and helping maintain a safe, beautiful and inviting community.”

The task list under the “Beautification” initiative in the strategic plan includes:

• Setting aside more budget and time for abandoned house removal;

• Adjusting trash pickup schedules to allow more resources for other pickup operations;

• Expanding the city’s partnership with LOVE Independence Day; and

• Neighborhood beautification through code enforcement.

   

To address the code enforcement objective, recently hired Code Enforcement Officer Mark McCleary is orienting to his new position and evaluating both commercial and residential neighborhoods throughout the community to identify properties in need of attention to bring them into compliance with safety and environmental codes. Over the next few weeks, Cowan said, McCleary will work to contact property owners with courtesy notices in hopes they will take action to correct problems before enforcement becomes necessary.

In addition to the dumpster program and code enforcement efforts, the city also has indefinitely expanded its weekly recycling collection to receive tires, appliances, furniture and other such large waste items at the City Sanitation Yard at 21st & Maple. These hard-to-dispose-of items can be dropped off at the yard each Tuesday between 11am and 1pm.

The neighborhood dumpster placement schedule for the remainder of the program is as follows:

April 19; May 3, 17 and 31:

• 13th & Walnut
• Burns & Walnut
• Park Blvd & Sycamore
• 900 W. Laurel parking lot
• 11th & Catalpa
• 21st & Taylor

April 26; May 10 and 17:

• Penn & Poplar
• 19th & Poplar
• 6th & Myrtle parking lot
• 900 W. Laurel parking lot
• 5th & Oak St.
• 11th & Catalpa

Questions or concerns may be addressed to McCleary at markc@independenceks.gov, or call (620) 577-7117 or (620) 714-1758.

Hay for Nebraska! That’s the need right now as Debbie Cramer, one of the individuals leading the charge for these efforts, says they need hay to give back towards the agricultural side of things by working with the Nebraska Department of Agriculture directly. Cramer says this hay will be serving about 150 square miles managing 10-15 thousand head of livestock. She is so happy with the response so far from our communities and hopes the 4 state area steps up once again! Cramer says they are looking for volunteers to help load and transport these hay bails, for more information on donation locations or to be a volunteer you can call Debbie directly at 620-313-0386.

This Saturday, April 20^th, in the Newtons True Value Parking Lot will be a smoke off of a different kind as a BBQ competition will feature chicken, pork rib, pork butt and anything but. Organizer Brett Trotter says this is open to the public and he encourages you to come.

Trotter says at the moment they are looking at around 10 competitors. KGGF's own Sam Speck and Matt Jordan will be two of the judges for the competition.

Two Union Pacific employees from Coffeyville were on a train involved in a fatality accident in Oklahoma Monday morning.  A 105 car train struck and killed an unidentified male in Pittsburg County.  Christopher Wigren was the engineer while Garry C ollier was a passenger on the train.  Both men are from Coffeyville.     

According to police reports the train was northbound and the victim was running eastbound and ran into the path of the oncoming train.

In November, Police Chief Kwin Bromley, Officer Michael Purvis and City Treasurer Toby Hunt were honored by the City Commission for a life saving event occurring at the Inter-State Fair & Rodeo. The honor was bumped up a notch as the three were recipients of a silver award at the Chiefs of Police Association Valor Banquet held Friday in Topeka. The honorees were recognized for saving the life of 18-month-old Grady Midgett who had stopped breathing while playing in the fair office last August.

There were 140 nominations for the valor awards with 56 chosen to receive awards at the ceremony. Treasurer Hunt was the only civilian honored as the rest of the recipients were members of police, sheriff departments or the Kansas Highway Patrol.

The 2019 ICC Outstanding Alumnus has been awarded to Mike Thompson. ICC College President Daniel Barwick and ICC Foundation Executive Director Mandy Monroy announced the selection. He will deliver a keynote presentation at the ICC spring commencement ceremony Saturday, May 11, at 10:00am at Memorial Hall in Independence.

Originally from Independence, Thompson and his wife, Karen, returned to the community after his retirement in 2017 from a 44-year career in the financial services industry. And now he's back with ICC as the volunteer coordinator of the college’s current strategic planning process.

“We are thrilled to present Mike with this award in recognition of his extraordinary accomplishments to date,” said Barwick. “Certainly, he is an exemplary model of success through education, career, family and community involvement, and we’re so pleased that ICC played a role in his life."

After attending ICC from 1967-68, Thompson went on to attend the University of Kansas, where he was named a 2017 Distinguished Alumnus of the KU School of Business and remains active on the school’s board of advisors. His financial services career included employment with Merrill Lynch from 1973 to 2007, during which he served in leadership roles in Missouri, Kansas, Phoenix, New York and Texas. He later worked for Union Bank of Switzerland in Kansas City and for Wells Fargo Advisors. 

The American Wind Energy Association's 2018 Annual Market report shows Kansas passing Iowa, now holding the number one spot . It shows 36.4% of the state's total electricity is produced by wind power in 2018. Iowa produced 33.7%. Our nation's largest state, Texas, was at 15.9%. To see the map and percentages for the entire U.S., see THIS PAGE. 

Governor Kelly spoke about the achievement. "The State of Kansas must continue to prioritize renewable energy and the many benefits that come with it. I'm pleased to see that Kansas has continued to increase its wind energy production," said Kelly. 

The estimated annual state and local tax payments by wind projects in Kansas for 2018 totaled nearly $28 million. Kansas is home to a major wind turbine "nacelle" production plant, with only two other currently operating in the U.S. A "nacelle" is a cover housing that houses all of the generating components in a wind turbine, including the generator, gearbox, drive train, and brake assembly. Learn more about the ins and outs of Kansas wind turbines. 

Wind energy now delivers over 20% of the electricity produced in six states: Kansas, Iowa, Oklahoma, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Maine. In 2018, wind turbines generated 6.5% of the nation’s electricity. Installed U.S. wind capacity can power the equivalent of over 30 million American homes.

Kansas powered 9.4 billion homes in 2018, placing the state 5th in the nation for equivalent homes powered. Kansas is behind California, Iowa, Oklahoma, and Texas which tops the nation of number of homes powered at a whopping 42 billion.

To see a free report from American Wind Energy Association, go HERE.

The Coffeyville City Commission will hold a special meeting with its bond counsel, Gilmore & Bell, on Wednesday, April 17^th at 5:30pm in it's regular Commission Room, 2^nd floor of the City Municipal Building. The purpose is to discuss an engagement letter about financing options available for the downtown area. If you have questions, call City Hall at 620-252-6108.

A few Easter Egg hunts coming up:

This Friday the 19^th the Coffeyville Recreation Commission is having an Underwater Eggstravaganza at 1:00pm. You must preregister – you can't just drop in, so be sure to register by calling 620-251-5910.

The Native American Fellowhip is having one on Saturday the 20^th at 2:00pm. Registration begins at 1:00, just an hour before it starts. It's at 215 Oklahoma St. in South Coffeyville.

Also on Saturday the 20th at 1:00pm, the American Legion Post #20 in Coffeyville is having an Easter Egg Scramble. It's free for all kids age 10 and under. A cake walk for up to age 10 costs only 25 cents.

The deadline to file for the Coffeyville City Commission is 12:00pm Monday, June 3rd. All local office filings are handled at the Montgomery County Clerk’s office in Independence, and the filing fee for city commission is $55. There will be three positions up for election. A primary, if needed, will be on August 6th, and the general election is November 5th.

June 3rd is also the deadline to file for the CCC Board of Trustees and USD 445 School Board with a filing fee of $20.

Girls Night in Coffeyville! Put on by Class LTD, Laura Samford explained it takes place next week on Thursday April 25th from 6 to 9PM. Tickets will cost 15 dollars till the 19th, then 20 dollars from the 19th to the door. Samford also explained all that's happening next Thursday night as she described it as a small biz expo for women, they will host vendors, a Fashion Show and a different take on auctions called a paddle party. The Paddle Party Samford mentioned was described as a different take on an auction where you could literally win something for a quarter instead of bidding over and over. Samford says it will take place in the Shrine Barn here in Coffeyville, located at 106 E. 7th St. To pre order tickets call Class LTD at 620-429-1212 or Samford directly at 620-687-5088

The School of Construction at Pittsburg State University readies to host its annual expo. Over the last few years, the expo has grown into one of the largest in the region.  The event at the Kansas Technology Center tomorrow and Wednesday, (April 16-17), features live demonstrations, student competitions, more than 107 exhibitors from across the nation, and an anticipated 800 guests from across the region.  The expo also serves as a link between the industry and prospective hires as young as high school. In past years, according to KTC, Pitt State students have received job offers on the spot

The expo will include two distinguished keynote speakers. William Praderio, the vice president of Massman Construction Company, will speak on Tuesday afternoon. The Executive President of the Associated General Contractors of America Dirk Elsperman will be the expo’s keynote speaker on Wednesday. 

A couple of things to keep in mind as we head into Easter Weekend. Coffeyville City Clerk Cindy Price says city offices will be closed on April 19th in observance of Good Friday. Also that night, the Coffeyville Police Department will conduct an Impaired Driving Saturation Patrol within the city limits beginning at 11 p.m. and continuing through 3 a.m. Saturday. 

The saturation patrol is part of the Impaired Driving Deterrence Program coordinated by the Kansas Department of Transportation.  

Galena Police and the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office work together on the search of a Galena home Friday morning. Inside, investigators found four young children, suspected methamphetamine, marijuana, and paraphernalia. Police say 34-year-old Dustin Bates and 28-year-old Adrian Valentine face a number of complaints.  Bates could be charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and four counts Child Endangerment. He is being held on $15-thousand dollars bond.

Valentine faces complaints of Possession of Methamphetamine and Harboring a Pitbull. She is being held on $3-thousand-dollars bond.    

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran, who is a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs, questioned Secretary of State Mike Pompeo during a subcommittee hearing. Sen. Moran says with continued global conflict and the ongoing confrontation of human rights abuses, the work being done by the hardworking men and women of the State Department to provide peace and stability cannot be overlooked and must be strongly supported. He says he was pleased to discuss the State Department’s priorities with Secretary Pompeo, and he looks forward to working with the Secretary to provide the necessary resources for the Department to conduct diplomacy around the world.

The full discussion between Sen. Moran and Secretary Pompeo can be listened to here.

The Independence Police Department is celebrating next week as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week. The week, sponsored by the Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials International and celebrated annually, honors the thousands of men and women who respond to emergency calls, dispatch emergency professionals and equipment, and render life-saving assistance to the world’s citizens. Police Chief Jerry Harrison has recognized the week and honored the Independence Police Department’s staff.

Harrison says they have the good fortune to work side by side with Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office Dispatchers. The dispatchers for both agencies are the unsung heroes of public safety for the people they serve. The first voice you hear on what is quite often the most difficult day you have ever had. You may never meet them, but without them there would be no public safety.

Parents with kids entering school for the first time can often have a lot of questions. Community Elementary's Sherrell White says their Kindergarten Roundup is coming up April 26^th.

White says there will be two sessions on that Friday the first from 10-11 and the second from 5-6 and they will take place in the Multipurpose Room at Community Elementary. She says for upcoming kindergartners they need to be 5 by August 31^st.

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran announced yesterday that he will visit Independence as part of his Kansas Listening Tour on Friday, April 19. Area residents are encouraged to attend and share feedback with Sen. Moran on the critical issues facing Kansas and the nation. The issues Sen. Moran focuses on and the work he does in Washington, D.C., are largely based on the conversations he has with Kansans during these Listening Tour stops.

Sen. Moran will be at the Independence Rotary Club from 11:30-12:30 for a Rotary Club meeting and then from 12:30-1:00 for a Townhall meeting open to the public. The meeting will be held at the Independence Country Club.

A Coffeyville man was sentenced to 176 months in prison on February 26 for distribution of methamphetamine. 36 year old Marquise Javon Fulcher pled guilty to two counts of distribution of meth. The sales took place in Independence back in March 2018. The sales were made to an undercover KBI Agent. The convictions were the result of a 6 month task force investigation by the KBI, CPD, IPD and the MGCSO.

The sentencing of Fulcher is the third among 13 defendants that were arrested in various parts of the county as a result of the investigation.

A 12-year veteran of the Kansas legislature, Virgil Peck, is asking some tough questions about Medicaid Expansion and hopes Kansas citizens will do the same with their representatives. Click to hear him on KGGF airwaves speak about the states filing federal lawsuit about Obamacare being unconstitutional and what this means for Medicaid Expansion legislation. 
 

Peck points out that US Attorney General, William Barr, joined the lawsuit Tuesday, April 9th, so if Obamacare or the Affordable Care Act is ruled unconstitutional, the federal government will not be paying the 90% to the states that decide to expand Medicaid. Ttherefore the states would be responsible for it, and that could bankrupt Kansas. Listen to Peck say it's not the right time.

Janet Ady, CEO of Ady Advantage, will be in town later this month to talk through the Strategic Econonic Development Plan, and MCAC's Trisha Purdon says Ady's feedback on the plan is encouraging. Click here to hear what Ady told Purdon about the plan.
 

Purdon presented this news to the Coffeyville City Commission Tuesday evening, pointing out that this solid plan will address the Tyson project and future projects and the related industries in Montgomery County.

Coffeyville's 9^th Street Fresh community gardeners will start planting this Saturday, April 13^th. Jacob Weber from K-State Research and Extension offers his expertise to individuals gardeners on what to do to prepare the the soil in their individual plots before putting seeds in the ground. Click on the following links to hear Weber talk about each point.

1. Raking your plot for debris like rocks and roots.
    
2. Increasing fertility and soil nutrients - recipe and application rate.
    
3. Increasing fertility and soil nutrients - more on the amount to apply.
    
4. The issue with perennial plants in a community garden to know about.
    
5. Planting suggestions - good ones.
    
6. Planting suggestions - not so good.
    
7. Transplant suggestions to get ahead. 
    
8. Spinach is for cooler weather.
    
9. Strawberries tend to sprout legs and jump.

Happy planting! Jacob is always available for questions. His office number is 620-724-8233.

A Nowata man has been sentenced after being convicted of second degree rape. 21 year-old Lane Branch will serve 10 years after a jury convicted him on the charge in March. According to an affidavit, Branch claimed to have consensual intercourse with a 14-year-old girl who was under the influence of alcohol. The girl's mother made contact with Branch who admitted the incident took place. Branch stated that he believed the girl was 16-years-old. The incident occurred in Dewey in January 2018.

Branch will have to register as a sex offender upon his release.

The Montgomergy County Action Council applied for another round of funding recently for small business development. Executive Director Trisha Purdon said they have “never had a single loan go into default.” The current funds are down to about $25,000. Ten thousand is going towards what is called “rapid loans” to help small business owners at their initial stages, and the rest is to help business owners through special marketing and finance training.

Coffeyville will be toured virtually in Washington DC by prospective businesses. MCAC's Trisha Purdon reported to city commissioners Tuesday evening that the “Virtual Reality Building Tour” will show prospective businesses what our community looks like so they may better understand the benefits of opening business in Montgomery County.

For example, they will be able to walk the Amazon building virtually from our nation's capitol. MCAC is now pulling together more business partners as Montgomery County prepares to showcase Coffeyville and other areas to businesses looking for a new home.

What about Tyson opening business in Montgomery County? Trisha Purdon said things have been quiet due to staff turnouver and the transition to Tyson's new CEO. They also have a new Vice President of Poultry. Although in midst of reorganizing their team, the core team is still the same.

Purdon told the Coffeyville City Commission Tuesday night that because MCAC works closely with the Kansas Dept of Commerce, it's wonderful news that the new Secretary of Commerce is now David Toland who has been one of MCAC's biggest allies, so things “could not be better aligned” for obtaining community collaboration on the Tyson project.

MCAC is being vigilant to prepare for the certification process, creating a checklist to address every single thing to ensure readiness and approval for the Tyson plant.

Why would Kansas citizens accept Medicaid Expansion when the state currently has over 6,500 people on a waiting list for regular Medicaid? According to 12-year veteran of the Kansas legislature, Virgil Peck, these thousands of Kansas citizens are eligible for regular Medicaid, but are waiting to receive benefits because the legislature has not yet provided the funding to cover them, and because Kansas does not having adequate facilities to treat their disabilities, which he says is true for both the medically and mentally disabled.

Thousands of disabled are waiting for Medicaid coverage as it is now, so why would we, or how can we, add another 75,000 people with Medicaid Expansion? Although the waiting list is decreasing, it's continued for many years.

The 9^th Street Fresh community garden Captain Terry Vernon said they're adding more soil and tilling again this week because so much soil was removed when taking out the abundance of debris. Click to hear Terry on KGGF airwaves talk about what is happening both Friday and Saturday. Members meet Friday at 5pm to get their seeds and donated items to prepare for planting the next day.

For those who missed reserving a plot, check back with Terry next week because they may have a few people cancel. Call or text him at 918-330-0413.

Holy Name Catholic School will hold a Kindergarten Roundup Friday, April 26 at 12:30 in the school gymnasium. Children entering kindergarten at Holy Name must be age five on or before August 31. Screening times for each child will be about 30 minutes. Take a copy of your child’s birth certificate, social security number, and immunization record. You may contact Holy Name at 620-251-0480 or stop by 406 Willow St.

City of Coffeyville has a few job and volunteer positions available. Two openings for the Public Library Board, two for the Planning Commission, three available for Montgomery County Community Corrections, and one for Montgomery County Juvenile Community Corrections. Details are available on the City’s website, coffeyville.com.

The Coffeyville Police Deparment sends a special thank you to Bonnie Uppendahl Smith for her generous donation of a beautiful hand-made quilt that will be for the department's updated children's room. The bright-colored quilt has Charlie Brown characters.

Pawhuska is getting an alternative fuel charging station. A $20,000 grant check was presented to the Pawhuska City Council Tuesday evening by Palma Lough of the Oklahoma Municipal Power Authority for meeting the criteria to qualify for the Competitive Utility Program. After applying for a re-ocurring grant early this year, and City Manager Larry Eulert announced the car charging station is on its way.

The city commissioners also discussed upcoming events with Chamber of Commerce Director Joni Nash who announced the Roy Clark Memorial Rodeo is coming in April and the OK Freewheel is in June. Nash said they need volunteers to help around the city to prepare for those and other upcoming events.

Also, congratulations to Steve Hughes who was recognized as the Code Enforcement Officer of the Year. Hughes shoed horses for nearly 30 years before joining the city government.

Easter Egg Hunting coming to Independence! Chamber Director Lisa Wilson mentioned a few hunts you can be apart of coming up the weekend of April 13th and 14th. She says those hunts are a great way to practice for the big Easter egg hunt at the end of the month and explains where to get information, by either calling the chamber at 620-331-1890 or visiting them online on Facebook. Wilson says there is 2 Easter egg hunts at 2PM on April 13th, one at Medicalodges, and the other at Country Place Senior Living and one the following day. The next day April 14th it will be at 2 O’Clock up at Montgomery Place in Independence. She says these events are a great way to be apart of community and spend time with the family, as well as practice for the big community Easter egg hunt out at Riverside Park April 20th.

Oklahoma drivers, there's a change coming to how you deal with your license plates.  Currently, when you buy a new or used car what you do with your tags, can create a sticky situation. Unlike Kansas, the plate has always stayed on the vehicle, then when someone purchases the vehicle, who ever traded in the vehicle, leaves their name and information with the plate. Beginning July 1st, a new state law takes effect meaning you will keep the plates and place them on your new car. 

Many Oklahoma tribes already have policies in place similar to the upcoming state change.        

The Osage County Health Department is currently operating out of a single location in Pawhuska. Larry Bergner, Administrative Director of the Health Department, was at Tuesday's Board of County Commissioners meeting asking to expand their services to Skiatook, OK. District Two Commissioner Kevin Pasley was in favor. The Skiatook office will be located at 210 Bulldog Drive and the rent will be $850 per month.

The Pawhuska School Board met Monday evening. All three principals stressed to the board they are working on different ways to improve their campus for next year. Elementary Principal Byron Cowan is tinkering with a rewards system for his students to improve behavior. He said he's already seen significant improvement with the number of office referrals are down.

High School Principal Lauri Lee told her staff to contact every parent or guardian by way of phone call, e-mail, or post card to update them on their child's progress. Also, Superintendent David Cash will serve as the girls basketball coach next year.

Get more information about Pawhuska Public Schools here.  The contact phone is 918-287-1265 Ext. 5002.

A First Aid/CPR certification course will be offered at Independence City Hall on Saturday, April 27 from 10am to 4pm. The cost is $50. Payment must be paid by noon the day before, on Friday, April 26^th in the City Clerk's Office, 811 W. Laurel St. or call 620-332-2500. Class size is limited. Those who live within the Independence city limits get a $10 discount. Pre-register at independenceks.gov.

Coffeyville's newly remodeled Walmart Supercenter was completed last Friday, April 5^th. Highlighted are the two convenient new services, Pickup Tower and Online Grocery Pickup. Pickup Towers are 16-feet-tall and work like high-tech vending machines, capable of fulfilling an online order in less than a minute. Just choose from millions of items and select the Pickup option at checkout. When it arrives, the customer retrieves it by scanning a bar code from their smartphone.

The Online Grocery Pickup is a free service allowing customers to order groceries pick them up at the store, and you don't even have to leave your car. Prices are the same, low price. Other store improvements include state of the art electronics departmet with interactive displays, an updated Money Center, and a refreshed pharmacy with a new consultation room. 

Firm up your workforce! The next lunch and learn put on by the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce is Thursday the 18th as Director Candi Westbrook says this event would benefit all business owners. A course designed for business owners on not only how to attract new workers to your business, but also how to keep them satisfied and continually working for longer periods. Limiting turnover rates and in the long run potentially saving your business money.  

It may be a few months away but Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook wanted to remind everyone of the 150th Anniversary Celebration event on June 1st. She hopes businesses are taking actions now to make sure they are prepared for a very busy weekend. Westbrook says they’ve added a couple more great activities to an already jam packed celebration weekend. For more information call 620-251-2550.

Sales Tax collections for Independence are on the rise.  In a report released today March sales tax receipts showed a 13.9% increase over March a year ago.  March collections were $20,459 over last year for a total of $167,292.   The first quarter sales tax collections for 2019 were up 8.9% over the first quarter of 2018.

That 2019 first quarter total was the highest 1^st quarter for Independence sales tax collections since 2014.

The CRMC Spring Chicken 5k and 1-mile Fun Run is this Saturday, April 13^th. It goes all day long, starting at 8:30am at Coffeyville Regional Medical Center, 4^th and Wilkie. For more information, call 620-252-1674.

The Board of Osage County Commissioners met this morning at the courthouse in Pawhuska. Discussion between the health department and Virginia Young was to take place about leasing office space in Skiatook for $850 a month.

They were to take quotes for the sale of scrap metal from the free county dump day they had in March, and also talk about possibly increasing the speed limit on Javine Hill Rd.

Osage County Commissioners meet the first Monday of the month at 600 Grandview Ave. in Pawhuska. You may reach the County Clerk at 618-287-2615.

Woolaroc Museum and Wildlife Preserve is having a Free Admission Day this Sunday, April 14th. It's the perfect time to visit when the grass is green, weather is beautiful, and every day animals on the preserve are being born. The Animal Barn and Mountain Man Camp are both open.

The Mountain Man Camp will have a living reenactment put on by Russ and Roger Butcher at Elk Lake. They teach how to throw a tomahawk and shoot a black power rifle. It's their way of teaching about the pre-Civil War life.

Woolaroc Musum and Wildlife Preserve is located in Bartlesville at 1925 Woolaroc Ranch Rd. They're open Wed-Sun 10am to 5pm. They're on Facebook by searching “woolaroc”.

Learn about legal tools, quality of life and hospice care, and advance funeral planning. It's a free seminar Thursday, April 18, at 6:00pm at Ford-Wulf-Bruns Chapel, 2405 Woodland Ave. in Coffeyville. You get a free information packet. RSVP by calling 620-251-3100.

Leaders of Coffeyville's Reawakening are looking for alumni graduates from Field Kindley High School who are willing to pass information along to their classmates about getting involved in revitalization and reawakening efforts. Let them know if you graduated from one of the following years:

1950, 1953, 1954, 1955, 1959, 1960, 1961, 1963, 1966, 1967, 1970, 1971, 1973, 1978, 1979, 1981, 1983, 1984, 1985, 1986, 1987, 1988, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2018

For more information, check out Coffeyville's Reawakening Facebook page, and you may contact the Chair-person, Denise York, at 620-251-2550

Another interesting development regarding Medicaid Expansion in Kansas. Supporters of expansion will need required votes from the Senate to move things along. Late last week, just moments before the Senate adjourned for its three-week break, Senate Minority Leader Anthony Hensley, D-Topeka, made a formal motion to move HB 2066 from the Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee to the General Order section of their May calendar.

The formal motion to move it to the general order section is necessary to pull a bill from a committee of legislators who will not forward it to the calendar themselves for action. Senate Leadership said Hensley's motion will be considered shortly after the Senate convenes May 1. Moving the bill requires 24 votes, and before they can debate and actually have a final vote on the bill, at least 27 votes are required to move forward.

Labette Community College is raising awareness of the high statistics of veteran suicide in the United States. The Student Veteran Organization hosted "1 Day, 22 Souls." On average, 22 veterans commit suicide a day. Besdes raining awareness, they are also raise money for student veterans at LCC.

Andrea Geiger, a student veteran on campus says she wants to do this those veterans coming back who “have seen things civilians have no idea about” and who have a hard time acclimating when they return home. A live wood carving was done to represent the battle cross and honor fallen service members. Student military walked around Forest Park with a weighted backpack for 22 laps to show their support.

The Coffeyville City Commission meeting is tomorrow, Tuesday evening at 6:30. A sneak peek of the agenda shows Montgomery County Action Council will be giving their Quarterly Report. There will be a Proclamation to declare next week from April 14^th to 20^th as National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week.

Other actions include appointing another member to the Park Advisory Board. One applicant includes Marci Roberts. The City plans to move on a Resolution to purchase insurance for the City, to execute an engineering services agreement for air compliance reporting with Power Engineers, to adopt aesthetic standards for wireless attachment devices within the City, and to purchase lights for the first phase of the Historic Downtown Area Lighting Project.

The City Commission meets the 2nd and 4th Tuesday of every month at the City Municipal Building, 2nd floor, 102 W. 7th St. They always encourage public comment. 

Orange is the color of the week. Several buildings and bridges across Kansas will be lit up in orange lights this week of the 8^th through the 12^th for National Work Zone Awareness Week. Orange lights will be seen at the following locations:

The Kansas Department of Transportation’s District offices in Topeka, Salina, Norton, Chanute, Hutchinson, and Garden City, as well as several KDOT Area offices, the Governor’s Mansion in Topeka, the Amelia Earhart Memorial Bridge in Atchison, and several other Topeka offices and buildings.

This “Go Orange” movement highlights the dangers faced by highway workers and motorists in work zones and promotes safer behaviors. People in Kansas are encouraged to wear orange this Thursday the 11^th, our state's official Go Orange Day.

The AK-47 man has been charged. KGGF received word from Captain Danny Grigg of the Coffeyville Police Department that a man was charged just a few weeks ago for the incident caught on Dr. Craig Correll's home security camera. Listen to Grigg on KGGF airwaves by clicking here. 

Bobby Walton "has many other charges" including failure to appear, interference with LEO, operating motor vehicle without valid license, outside warrants, driving without a valid license, fleeing or attempting to elude a LEO, possession of marijuana, and interference with LEO. Captain Grigg said whether or not the AK-47 was real or not will be dealt with by the courts.

USD 445's Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll was in the KGGF studios this morning giving us a sneak peak of today's Board meeting agenda. For one, they are looking at behavior and attendance data. Click here to hear what he says.

The district has been focusing on behavior and attendance data for about seven years, since there was a change in state assessments when it was hard to compare old and new assessment data, so they decided to focus on what they could compare over time.

And Correll tells us why it's so important to purchase more security cameras. Go here to hear him on the KGGF airwaves talk about the cameras. Correll added that the cameras are not for listening to what is being taught in the classrooms, but for added sccurity. They are also planning to purchase Promethean Board touch screens for the Early Learning Center, a food service box truck, and epoxy flooring.

The Board meeting is today (every 2nd Monday of the month) at 6:00pm at 615 S. Ellis. The public is welcome.

If you have business with Caney City Hall, over the next couple of days, you’ll need to show up early. Police Chief Ron Wade says today and tomorrow Caney City Hall will be closing at noon. 

He says the early closure has been prompted by audit requirements. 

The Coffeyville Board of Commissioners is accepting applications for persons interested in serving on the Library Board. The seven-member board has two positions available for four-year terms serving to April 30, 2023. This board meets the third Tuesday of each month at 5:15 pm. The deadline to receive applications is 5:00pm Wednesday, April 17. All applications will be reviewed by the Commissioners and appointments made at the April 23 meeting. Applicants must be city residents and they have to attend the commission meeting to be appointed.

Applications for board appointments may be picked up in the City Clerk’s Office or on the Coffeyville City website, www.coffeyville.com.

Remember the AK-47 gunman caught on a home security camera in Coffeyville this past February? Captain Danny Grigg says they believe a man arrested for other charges could be charged for this incident soon. So police are checking into it, and we will keep you posted.

The public is invited to attend an Independence Public Forum taking place on Wednesday, April 17^th at Memorial Hall. The forum is about increasing the number of city commissioners from three to five commissioners. When entering Memorial Hall, use the north entrance into the lower level. If you'd like more info, call City Hall at 620-332-2500.

Effective March 30^th, the Southeast Kansas Produce Auctions, hosted by John & Sherrie Nichols of Nichols Trading Post in Parsons, will be held on Tuesday's and Friday's at 1:00pm. The schedule change was made by the growers. Today, Friday, April 5 is an auction at 1pm. Again next Friday the 12^th and then Tuesdays will start on the 16^th. Good Friday the 19^th will have an auction. The auctions will always be at 1:00pm Tuesdays and Fridays, starting today.

Note the new Coffeyville store, Nichols Hitching Post, has not yet open, but today we got an update the product has arrived, freezers are delivered this weekend, and they begin stocking the new store tomorrow. It's at the corner of 8^th and Maple, a couple of doors down from Sunflower Soda Fountain which by the way started serving breakfast for the first time today 8-10:30. The Nichols said that's a big plus for their customers.

For more about their auctions and stores, follow their Facebook page.

People are waiting to hear about Coffeyville's next monthly comedy show, Walk In and Show out by Griff Walker and Mario Shobe. Griff Walker gives us an update about the next show the first weekend in June with a new partner, new sponsors, and a new steady location. Click here to hear Griff tell us about what motivates them to make changes, including creating shows that work for Coffeyville.
 

Their new partner is Gary Stevens, and after meeting with sponsors early next week they will have their new Facebook page. They are also getting a steady location in place, one where people can count on for the regular monthly show. Stay tuned to KGGF for updates on Coffeyville's comedy club.

Don't forget tonight is the Advanced Training of Storm Fury on the Plains at Independence Community College. Our Director of Emergency Management, Rick Whitson said the Director of the National Weather service was impressed by last week's audience of about 100 people, and today's advanced training should be very good. Hear Rick talk about it by clicking here.

It's free and no registration required. Just drop in – It's at the Inge Theatre, otherwise known as ICC's main campus auditorium. It from 6:30 to 8:30 tonight. You may call Rick at 620-330-7040.

A Coffeyville man is killed in a one vehicle crash in Riley County. According to the Kansas Highway Patrol 40 year old Andrew Drysdale was traveling north bound on K113 and failed to stop at the intersection of K113 and U24. The vehicle hit the guardrail and went down the embankment striking a tree and coming to a rest on its top.

The crash happened around 8:30 this morning and according to KHP Drysdale wasn't wearing a seatbelt. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

**photo courtesy of KMAN News**

At around 8:30 Wednesday evening, the Osage County Sheriff’s Office responded to a domestic disturbance with one person shot at 742 County Rd. 4920, located north of Pawhuska. As they were driving to the scene, the Sheriff's Office received another 911 call saying a second person had been shot.

Officers learned that 45-year old Travis Kircher, and his 23-year old son, Ty Kirchner, had gotten into a verbal altercation and during that altercation, Ty Kirchner had shot Travis Kirchner. There was then a second incident involving Ty Kirchner and another family member.

During that altercation, Ty Kirchner was shot, allegedly in self defense. Ty Kirchner and Travis Kirchner were pronounced dead at the scene. The incident is still under investigation and will be referred to the District's Attorney's Office for review. 

Wet roads and bald tires is an accident waiting to happen. In Osage County, a Skiatook man was treated for head, arm, and internal injuries following a Wednesday night accident. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reports that 49 year-old David Curtis Sampson, Jr. was driving westbound on State Highway 20 just before 11:00pm, that he was driving too fast for conditions on a wet roadway with defective tires with low tread depth. 

Sampson lost control and went into a broad slide, went off the roadway to the left and the truck hit a tree. A 13 year-old was in the truck. Sampson was taken to St. Francis Hospital, admitted in stable condition with head and internal injuries. Neither occupant was wearing a seatbelt. Roads are wet today. Please drive carefully, check your tires, and wear your seatbelt.

Labette Health's temporary clinic, Oswego Clinic and Express Care saw fifteen patients it's opening day on Monday, April 1st, and scheduled over 50 patients to be seen in the first week. They have seven staff members for primary and express care, EKG, and lab draws in over 2,000 square feet with four exam rooms and one procedure room .

The express care clinic is located just south of the intersection of US 160 and Commercial street. Hospital administrators say they hope to announce plans for a permanent location in Oswego soon. Click here for the clinic's webpage or contact information. 

Parsons Police Chief Robert Spinks presented his annual report to city commissioners Monday night. Reflecting data from the last four years, looking at violent crimes and theft. Cheif Spinks said they had vast improvement in the number of traffic accidents, where they had close to 100 less crashes last year.

Officers are also taking the “right approach” to enforcing the rules of the road by officers embracing their policy of using the “lowest level of enforcement to gain the highest level of voluntary compliance”. They actually give more than two warnings for every one traffic ticket.

Chief Spinks pointed out the need for stronger drug enforcement, so he and the county attorney will be presenting to the city commission about a task force to strengthen drug enforcement.

Residents in Iola will be seeing state and federal agencies working in town over the next several weeks. City administrator Sid Fleming says the next phase of residential yard remediation is set to begin soon. He says the federal Environmental Protection Agency and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment are having the work done to rid the town of contaminants left by zinc smelting in the early 1900's.

Fleming says this is a continuation of cleanup work that has already been done to some residences in the city. It will start with residential and move into commercial, depending on time and money. The cleanup process is expected to last for several years.

A ribbon cutting for a new medical marijuana dispensary, Green Culture Dispensary, was Thursday, April 4th in Jay, OK. It's the city's first medical marijuana facility. According to Manager Chris Davis, Medical Marijuana has created many job opportunities in the city and state. The store offers full spectrum CBD oils of various strains. Green Culture Dispensary is in downtown Jay. Davis said a lot of their patients are over 50 and business is growing. 

Have you made it to a monthly Outpouring of the Holy Spirit event yet? Pastor Randy DePriest tells us about why it's so important and shares about the miracles happening at these monthly events since January. Click here to listen!

Bishop Darrin Brown of Lewark Church of God will be this month's speaker at First Assembly of God, 1504 W. 8^th St. in Coffeyville. The Outpouring starts at 6:00pm both Sunday and Monday evenings. Pastor DePriest advises getting there early, as they are already getting calls to reserve seats although reservations are not required. Don't miss your chance to experience a miracle healing for yourself and those you care about.

Feel free to call the church at 620-251-0230.

Parents of students at Caney Valley receive word of an incident involving a school bus this morning.   Bus #11 slid off a backroad on Road 30 near Niotaze. All parents have been contacted and seen  by the school nurse.  She reports no serious injuries. 

In in the message to parents, the district reminded them student safety is a top priority at USD 436. 

The Ralph Mitchell Park & Zoo is having its 2019 Grand Opening next weekend! The 2019 opening of the Ralph Mitchell Park & Zoo is Saturday April 13th with a full day of activities planned. Independence Chamber Director Lisa Wilson explains this year they are doing something very special in honor of Miss Able. It is the 60 year anniversary of her successful space launch, so you will see scattered around town posters and other ways remembering 60 years. That Saturday morning Wilson explains there will be a putt putt tournament kicking off at 9:30 and if you’d like to be apart of she says head to the FORPAZ Facebook Page. Then at 11 until 3 is when the events take place, the carousel and train will be running and will be free of charge. Face painting, petting zoo as well as food trucks and other activities all age groups can be apart of. She also encourages you go to the FORPAZ Facebook page to keep up to date with great photos and all information.

Fall Enrollment at Coffeyville Community College starts April 8^th. Director of College relations Yvonne Hull says for new students and parents who need questions answered there will be an open house on April 11^th.

Hull says there has been a change to enrollment, if you don't have your FASFA submitted when you enroll you'll have to put down a deposit.

Another Bartlesville man who was involved in last week’s shooting incident near Madison Middle school was arrested. Matthew Stanton was in court on Monday facing charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute within 2,000 feet of a school, possession of a firearm in the commission of a felony and possession of stolen property.

According to an affidavit, a search of the residence at 6101 Baylor Dr. produced numerous containers and vacuum seal packs of marijuana. Marked packages with different names and THC percentages were found, and homemade THC wax was in a refrigerator. Multiple loaded firearms were in a bedroom. Stanton's bond is $75,000 and his court hearing is scheduled for April 12.

Pawhuska Schools sent out a community-wide survey looking for results on what improvements citizens believe the school should make when putting together its next bond issue. Transportation improvements and a storm shelter were both items at the top of the list for Pawhuska residents.

While Superintendent David Cash agrees with these sentiments, he says it is important to make the right decision before jumping to any conclusion. This is Cash's first year being at Pawhuska, but he has seen first hand the problems a school can go through when not doing the proper research. Cash sees the need for upgrades in transportation first, and then upgrade facilities later.

The City of Independence will begin flushing fire hydrants next Monday, April 8th and will continue for approximately six weeks. If you notice cloudy water, it means air is in the line. Let the water run for a few minutes to clear it. And same if the water is discolored – just let the water run a few minutes. Low pressure on any faucet usually means the screen needs cleaning, but remember low pressure is normal when city workers are flushing the fire hydrants in your area, and typically lasts about 20 minutes. If problems continue or if you have questions, call City Hall at 620-332-2500. 

Turn your working lunch into a walking lunch. National Walk at Lunch Day is April 24^th and people will be walking during lunch in Independence starting at noon that day in Riverside Park. It starts at the corner of Park and Oak St. April 24^th is the last Wednesday of this month. The walk event is sponsored by Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas. Check out their Facebook page for more about it.

Coffeyville Police are now using their new 911 technology paid for by a federal Justice Assistance Grant, or JAG grant. Captain Danny Grigg says it's user friendly. The one replaced was about 10 years old and had lost some of its capability. This new technology is easier to listen to calls to find out what actually happened, forward them, and use the information for prosecution.

Even though spring has just officially started it's never to early to start thinking about fall enrollment at Coffeyville Community College. Director of College Relations Yvonne Hull says it will open on April 8^th.

Hull says not to procrastinate when it comes to enrolling as their classes fill up fast.

The City of Coffeyville is taking applications to fill both male and female Police Officer positions. Coffeyville maintains 27 sworn officers to serve about 10,000 residents. The application process includes a written test, physical agility test, oral interview, background investigation, psychological test battery, polygraph and medical exam including a back x-ray and drug screen. Apply online at hrepartners.com.

The Labette County Sheriff’s Office is seeking candidates for a “male corrections officer” position. The position is full time with 12 hour shifts and off every other weekend. Benefits include health care, life insurance, KPERS retirement, vacation and sick time. You must have a school diploma or equivalency and pass a criminal history background check. If interested, pick up an application at 718 5th St. in Oswego or downloaded from their website labettecountykssheriff.org. You may also call 620-795-2565.

The City of Independence Planning Commission/Board of Zoning Appeals will meet today, Tuesday, April 2 at 5:30pm in the Veterans room of Memorial Hall, 410 N. Pennsylvania Ave. The public is welcome, and if you don't make it, you may watch various city meetings on YouTube – just search City of Independence, Kansas. Click here to watch last Friday's "Special Commission Meeting" (Mar. 29). For planning/zoning questions, feel free to call 620-332-2506.

April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the Kansas Department of Transportation, and law enforcement agencies across the state are working to educate drivers of the dangers of driving while distracted. In 2017, 28% of all traffic crashes in Kansas were attributed to driver inattention or distractions.

Usually associated with cell phone use, but many other situations can cause distractions like interacting with children, eating food, using electronic devices, and attention to what's happening outside the vehicle, has contributed to tens of thousands of crashes in Kansas alone. Phone texting, social media or internet activity can lead to a minimum $60 ticket plus court costs, or even injury or death. Law enforcement officers also encourage you to “just drive”. Turn off electronic devices and keep both eyes on the road. Passengers, too, should stay alert and hold the driver accountable.

This Friday, April 5^th, the Advanced Training of Storm Fury on the Plains will be at Independence Community College. The first training was last week, and our Director of Emergency Management, Rick Whitson, tells us about it and what is coming this week.

The National Weather Service director told Rick he was impressed by last week's turnout of about 100 people, for he hadn't seen that many people in a very long time. It's severe weather training and education for everyone, and it's free. It starts at 6:30pm until about 8:30 in ICC's main auditorium. For more info, call Rick at 620-330-7040.

Members of the Field Kindley High School Skills USA Club stopped by the Coffeyville Fire Department yesterday to deliver blankets. Members made and donated blankets to be used by individuals who are out in the cold due to an emergency.

Can you imagine being flooded out of your home in the freezing cold? Our hearts and prayers go out to the people and animals in Nebraska and surrounding areas. Jo Faulkner, our Coffeyville coordinator, talks about the trouble they're having.

She also says Debbie Kramer with Gifts for the Nation is heading up with a shipment soon but they need our help (click to hear the details). They mostly need cleanup supplies and hygiene items.

Drop off locations include Lannings restaurant on 9^th St. downtown, open until 9pm Mon-Thur and 10pm Fri and Sat. Other spots are Utopia Cafe, Ford-Wulf Bruns Chapel, St. Paul Lutheran, First Southern Baptist, and the Tyro church. Listen to Jo talk about the locations and more. Jo will also pick up your items. Her number is 620-251-2609.

At 8:30am today, Tuesday, April 2, Coffeyville fire and police rushed to a structure fire at 1313 W. 7^th St. Captain Joe Rexwinkle informs us. Listen to him on the KGGF airwaves by clicking here. Property is owned by Paul Sandhu, and was occupied by Felix Withrow and his family. Damage estimated at $15,000.

Fortunately, the Felix family made it out safely without a working smoke detector. Be sure to check that yours is working, and if you don't have one, get one free from your local fire department. Coffeyville Fire Dept phone is 620-332-2504. And we are so grateful for all our first responders and all who help keep us safe, including our firefighters, police staff, EMS, Red Cross, CRMC, and Atmos Energy. 

Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt and the Kansas State Child Death Review Board are encouraging Kansans to wear blue on April 5 to increase awareness of child abuse. The effort is part of April’s observance of Child Abuse Prevention Month and the Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse. “Keeping a watchful eye for the signs of child abuse can help protect Kansas children,” Schmidt said. “We all have a responsibility to help keep children safe.”

April was first declared as Child Abuse Prevention Month by President Ronald Reagan in 1983. The Blue Ribbon Campaign to Prevent Child Abuse was begun in 1989 by a Virginia grandmother in memory of her grandson, who died due to child abuse.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is offering Safesitter classes throughout the year on Saturdays. The first session will be held on Saturday, April 13, 2019 from 9:30am until 4:30pm, located in the 4^th Floor Conference Room at CRMC. If you are interested in the April session, please register by Thursday, April 11th and pay at time of registration. Please bring a sack lunch as the class will go into the lunch hour. The cost of the program is $35, and registration is required.

Limited space available, if you would like to get your child registered please call 620-252-2201 or email Ashley Tatman at ashleyt@crmcinc.org.

Twenty-four outstanding playwrights, will converge in Independence, Kansas for a public staged reading of their new scripts during the New Play Lab at the 38th Annual William Inge Theater Festival, May 22-25, at Independence Community College. Now in its fourth year, the Inge Festival New Play Lab connects playwrights with national and regional theater communities. The Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission (KCAIC) partners with the Inge Festival in presenting the New Play Lab. The KCAIC is dedicated to measuring, promoting, supporting, and expanding the creative industries to grow the state's economy and generate creative industry-related jobs.

All plays are 10 to 30 -minutes long, and the readings are open to the public. Tickets for the New Play Lab and all Inge Festival events as well as all other information is available at www.ingecenter.org, or at (620) 332-5648.

The 2019 New Play Lab playwrights are: Brendan Beseth, Fayetteville, AR; Asher Bowles, Minneapolis, MN; Nelson Diaz-Marcano, New York, NY; David Dudley, St. Johnsbury, VT; James English, Providence, RI; Ron Fassler, New York, NY; Jordan Henry, Chattanooga, TN; Kevin King, Kansas City, MO; Kenneth P. Langer, Maynard, MA; Bill Lynch, New York, NY; Tony Manzo, New York, NY; Alan Olejinczak, San Francisco, CA; Reuel Olin, San Diego, CA; Dave Osmundsen, Pompton Plains, NJ; Michael Pisaturo, Brighton, MA; John Remington, Adams, OR; Nedra Roberts, Brookhaven, GA; Nan Satter, New Paltz, NY; and Mary Teitelbaum, New York, NY.

We've been talking about it, and now this Friday its finally here. Cats and Karaoke Night put on by Coffeyville Friends of Animals at the Yoke Bar and Grill is guaranteed to entertain though Becky Barnhardt says they made some changes to the times as it now will be starting a little later at 8PM. Barnhardt also wanted to have everyone to mark their calendars for Tuesday May 7^th as the spayed and neutering van returns to our area. They only run on reservations and they fill up fast, to reserve your spot Barhardt says to call 620-232-0907. As we go through Spring there is a lot of things responsible pet owners should think about doing. Like getting your animals spayed or neutered, as well as Barnhardt urges you don't forget about the bugs! Mosquitoes carrying disease, fleas, ticks and other bugs that could cause harm. She suggests you get the correct prevention or treatments for your animals.

A new walk on to the Coffeyville Community College football team is more than just an athlete. Rajae Britt, who is from Delaware, says music has been in his family for a long time.

Britt is headed to Nashville this weekend to be a part of the Bobby Jones Gospel Show. He put on a concert to help raise money and says he really appreciates all the help and support he saw from the community.

Montgomery County officials announced Monday morning (April 1st) that a settlement has been reached with Coffeyville Resources concerning the property tax appeal filed by the company regarding the nitrogen fertilizer plan for tax year 2008, eleven years ago. Coffeyville Resources will not have to pay the tax refund immediately, but instead pay $7.9 million dollars in taxes over a 10-year period as deferred annual marginal increases.

The refinery will continue to be taxed at an appraised value of $160 million for 2019, increased 1.8 percent annually for the next nine years, and similarly the fertilizer plant will be taxed on $35 million at annual increases of 1.825 percent. County Commissioner Larry McManus says it gives both the county and the company economic certainty and will not negatively impact local units of governments, including the schools. They say they appreciate Coffeyville Resources having a presence in Montgomery County.

USD 445 Coffeyville Public Schools announced April is Autism Awareness Month. Show your support and raise awareness by wearing the color blue to school, Tuesday, April 2^nd.

Over 12 years ago, May 11, 2007, Former Gov. Kathleen Sebelius signed into law Senate Bill #138, which created a task force to study and evaluate the needs of individuals with autism, such as benefits, financial assistance, and the availability or accessibility of services. Legislation was introduced ten years ago in 2009 to re-establish the task force and was referred to the Health and Human Services Committee. No further action was taken, so there is currently no active state autism task force in Kansas for the last ten years. This bill and others can be tracked online at kslegislature.org.

In 2017, 28% of all traffic crashes in Kansas were attributed to driver inattention or distractions. April is Distracted Driving Awareness Month and the Kansas Department of Transportation and law enforcement agencies across the state are working to educate drivers of the dangers of driving while distracted. While this is most often associated with cell phone use, many other situations can cause distractions in the car. Interacting with children, eating food, using other electronic devices, and even things happening outside the vehicle contributed to more than 16,000 distracted driving crashes in 2017. Many people may not know that distracted driving can be a ticketable offense in Kansas. For example, any texting, social media or internet activity on your phone can lead to a minimum $60 ticket plus court costs. However, the worst result of distracted driving would be to cause an injury or death.

Law enforcement officers also encourage Kansans to “just drive” when they are behind the wheel. If your attention is anywhere other than the road, you’re driving distracted, and you’re driving dangerous. Drivers can minimize distractions by turning off electronic devices and keeping both eyes on the road ahead at all times. They also encourage passengers to hold their driver accountable and to not be a distraction themselves.

This year Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is teaming up with the local Boys and Girls Club of Southeast Kansas to host a day camp and health fair for the youth in the community, Camp Blue Mission and O.K. Kids Health and Safety Fair. The Boys and Girls Club chapter provides a program called Keystone, which is the Boys & Girls Club Movement’s ultimate teen program for youth ages 14 to 18. Each year, the Keystone group is in charge of a big project that helps the community. During the day camp, there will be a chance for some hands on learning and educational time. CRMC is excited to partner with the local youth and to continue to provide an educational event to Coffeyville.

The health and safety fair will be Saturday May 4^th, from 9:00am until noon at the high school gym.  It is free for children pre-school age and up, and is designed to educate kids about health and safety.

Legislative Coffee coming to Coffeyville! Hosted by the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce as Director of the Chamber Candi Westbrook explains it's later this month. The event will be on Saturday April 27^th here in Coffeyville at the Sleep Inn & Suites, and will start at 9 AM that morning. Westbrook says this event is a great way to stay up to date with our area legislators as both representatives and senators will be in attendance. Listen to what hey have been doing up in Topeka and also have your ideas and concerns heard directly. For more information you can call the chamber at 620-251-2550