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Local News Archives for 2019-07

Gift Bags Donated to CPD

 

Sometimes children get involved in some stressful situations and may become scared. Thanks to a donation from a Coffeyville citizen the police department will have something to give them if they are upset. Chamber Director Candi Westbrook says this was an idea her mom, Laura Oliver, had.

 

Westbrook says her mom put together gift bags with toys, stuffed animal, crayons and more and told the police department when they run out she'll make more.

UPDATE: 11th Street Construction

 

Officials anticipate an October completion for the construction on the intersection of 11th Street and Willow Street in Coffeyville. Workers are feeling the summer heat as construction continues to widen the roadway with new turn lanes and traffic signals. The city is reconstructing U.S. 166 at the intersection between Spruce and Elm streets as part of a GI project. Coffeyville Public Workers Director Chuck Shively says the completed project would result in smoother traffic flow. KDOT is funding 90 percent of the project cost. The city’s share is 10 percent, plus any costs above $1 million. The cost of construction is approximately $1.3 million. The GI project was awarded to Mission Construction Company of St. Paul.

 

Shively says that work is progressing well as weather permits.

Textron Interns Help Cherrvale Museum

 

The museum in Cherryvale gets a facelift, thanks to the volunteer efforts of Textron Aviation interns and employees. The exterior of the museum was showing some wear. Board Member Carol Staton learned that Textron encourages their summer interns to do a project off-site, to benefit the community. Textron Coordinators Nancy King and Mike Sharp brought eight interns, and four employees to Cherryvale, armed with paintbrushes and rollers. City leaders and business owners were invited to the museum to see the updated exterior.

 

The Historical Museum of Cherryvale is free and open to the public on Sunday afternoons, from 2:00 to 4:00 pm.

Help Gather Data For Littering Survey

 

If you're looking for something to do this weekend, why not help gather some data for the city of Coffeyville? The city currently needs volunteers to help clean up litter this Saturday, August 3rd. Volunteers will be needed from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. The data will be used for the city's $5,000 Keep America Beautiful survey.

 

The most common downtown litter is currently cigarette butts and cigar tips, and therefore will be targeted this weekend. The data collected will also be used to help determine the most helpful location for butt containers.

S.E.K. Woman Passes In Fatal Accident

 

 

Tina Yvonne Axtell, 63, of Baxter Springs, Kan., died after a crash in Ottawa County, Oklahoma with another person being air lifted to a hospital in Kansas City. The crash happened on July 29th around 6:26 am on U.S. 69A, about a half mile northeast of Quapaw. According to the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Axtell was driving north and went left of center for an unknown reason and hit a vehicle traveling south. The driver of the other vehcile, David D. Slavens, 55, of Baxter Springs, was taken by EMS to Freeman Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. He was then taken to The University Of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas. According to the OHP, he was admitted in fair condition.

 

 

*Credit KOAM News* 

KBI's Annual Crime Report

 

 

All numbers from the K.B.I.'s annual crime report was just released. A 5.3 percent increase in violent crime in a year across Kansas. In fact, over the last 10 years, 2018 saw the highest number of violent crimes with 12,367. Aggravated assault and battery, motor vehicle thefts and arsons all increased state wide from 2017 to 2018 as well.

 

Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves says the number of arsons in his county went up but the amount of aggravated assault went down. In fact, the number of violent crimes in Cherokee County went down by five instances from 2017 to 2018. But the number of rapes went up by five.  The number of rapes state wide increased more than 10 percent from 2017 to 2018.  For the complete report, the full link can be found HERE

 

*Credit KOAM News*

Bullfighter Pulling Double Duty During ISFR

 

A new face will be seen at this year’s Inter-State Rodeo in Coffeyville. Wade Kunze from Okmulgee, OK will be one of the two bullfighters during the rodeo August 15-16. Kunze began his bullfighting career when he was eighteen years old. Growing up in Iowa, he competed in high school rodeo as a steer wrestler, then collegiately, first at Iowa Central Community College in Ft. Dodge, then at Northwestern Oklahoma State University in Alva. It’s not common for a bullfighter to also be a contestant, but Kunze makes it work. He’ll compete in Coffeyville in the steer wrestling, and even though bullfighting might be considered to be more dangerous than steer wrestling, his worst injury was in the steer wrestling, when he broke his leg during high school competition.

 

Evan Allard from Vinita, OK will serve as the other bullfighter during this year’s rodeo.

National Night Out Next Week

 

Just a little over a week away from the 7th annual National Night Out. Join the Coffeyville Police Department and Fire Department at the Aquatic Center on Tuesday night August 6th from 5:30pm until 8:00pm. There will be free swimming, music, bouncy house, a mock jail cell, cotton candy and much more. National Night Out is an event to encourage community in the city and a great way to meet police officers and firefighters.

 

In other events at the Coffeyville Aquatic Center tonight is the last night for Dollar Swim Night from 5:00pm until 8:00pm.

Red Cross Blood Shortage Continues

 

After issuing an emergency call for blood and platelet donors in early July, the American Red Cross continues to face an emergency blood shortage. All eligible donors are urged to give now. With the help of a generous $1 million donation from Amazon, the Red Cross hopes to motivate donors to roll up a sleeve and alleviate the blood shortage across the country. To help address the current emergency blood shortage, all who come to give blood or platelets with the American Red Cross from now until August 29th will receive a $5 Amazon Gift Card via email.

 

Currently, the Red Cross has less than a three-day supply of most blood types available and less than a two-day supply of type O blood.

Kansas Approves Merger for TMobile/Sprint

 

The State of Kansas approves the long-planned merger of Sprint and T-Mobile to form the nation’s third-largest telecommunications carrier that will maintain its second headquarters in Overland Park, KS. Attorney General Derek Schmidt says that his team has studied this merger and it's affect on Kansas.

 

In addition to the U.S. Department of Justice and Kansas, the approval is joined by Ohio, Oklahoma, Nebraska and South Dakota.

A Few More Weeks For Leadership Coffeyville

There's not much time remaining to submit an application to be involved with this year's Leadership Coffeyville class. The deadline to submit an application for consideration is next Friday, August 9. According to the program's website, it is designed to "identify and motivate emerging leaders, and to develop their potential for community leadership roles by acquainting them with the opportunities, realities, and challenges of the community." Participants will undergo several sessions throughout the roughly four month long program, including topics such as government, education, business and more.

 

The first class was formed in 1987, with the program continuing on ever since and graduating more than 400 participants along the way.. You can apply by visiting www.leadershipcoffeyville.com, or by clicking here.

Mercy Clinic To Close

 

 

Mercy has started notifying patients that the Mercy Clinic on Barker drive in Oswego will be closing in August because of "declining reimbursement rates, and reduced patient volumes." This comes only a few months after the Oswego Community Hospital and Clinics abruptly closed in February. Labette Health has been working to fill the health care gap for residents, and say since this was made official they've seen an influx of patients at their temporary clinic in Oswego. They plan to accept as many patients as they can, and plan to open another clinic in Chetopa. The Mercy clinic will be closing on August 30th. The nurse practitioner from there will be sent to the clinic in Columbus.

 

Mercy's statement on the closure: 

"Declining reimbursement rates and reduced patient volumes have forced Mercy Clinic to consolidate its family medicine clinic in Oswego, Kansas, with the clinic in nearby Columbus, Kansas. Patients have been notified of this consolidation. The Oswego clinic will close on Aug. 30. Katelyn Hite, an advance practice provider from the Oswego clinic, will join Benjamen H. Williams, MD, and Diana Marshall, PA, at Mercy Clinic Family Medicine Columbus. We regret any inconvenience caused to our patients in Oswego but remain dedicated to providing compassionate care and exceptional service at our Columbus clinic and throughout the Four-State Area."

 

*Credit KOAM News

S.E.K. Symphony Returns For 105th Year

 

Founded in 1915 by Walter McCray, the man for whom the music building at Pittsburg State University would be named, the SEK Symphony of Pittsburg State University still is going strong 104 years later. With four major performances each academic year, the group’s goal is to be an integral part of the culture of Southeast Kansas. 

 

The upcoming season, the group’s 105th, includes: 

 

An Evening with World Renowned Operatic Tenor Robert Dean Smith | 7:30 p.m. Oct. 17 

Smith and the SEK Symphony will perform an encore concert at the Helzberg Hall in the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City — one of the most prestigious concert halls in the nation — at 5 p.m. on Sunday, Oct. 20. 

 

Holiday Extravaganza and 5th Anniversary Celebration for Bicknell Family Center for the Arts | 7:30 p.m. Dec. 3 

 

PSU Opera Theatre and the SEK Symphony present the 2020 Opera Performance | 7:30 p.m. Feb 14 and 3 p.m. Feb 16 

 

New Music New Voices | 7:30 p.m. April 9 

 

Children’s Concert | 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. April 21 

Tickets 

Tickets for the Robert Dean Smith concert are on sale now. All PSU students, faculty, administrators, and personnel may attend ticketed SEK Symphony concerts free of charge. Tickets for the public are $5 for children and retired PSU employees, $12 for seniors and groups, and $15 for adults. They may be purchased at the PSU Ticket Office in the Garfield Weede Building from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., or by calling 620-235-4796, or online at www.pittstate.edu/office/ticket. They also may be purchased at the door starting one hour before the performance. 

 

Scooters For Shockers

 

 

The W.S.U. Police Department is taking a serious look at how to safely and legally allow motorized e-scooters on the Wichita State campus. Police Chief Rodney Clark says the safety of students, employees and visitors is always their top priority. We knowing from the increasing usage around the country that these scooters are fun and convenient. Clark says we also know they present safety hazards to their riders, pedestrians, motorists, and property. When you put a motor on something, it changes everything. They have begun to research e-scooter experiences elsewhere, and will be especially interested in the results of the current pilot program by the city of Wichita.

Rep. Steve Watkins To Visit Independence

A United States Congressman will soon be visiting Montgomery County. Representative Steve Watkins will visit Independence this Monday, July 29th, in an attempt to visit with constituents on how best to serve his district. He'll be holding a Town Hall meeting and can be reached from 3:30 to 4:30 p.m. on the second floor of the Montgomery County Judicial Center - Administrative Hearing Room. Watkins will be introduced by Montgomery County GOP Chairman Virgil Peck.

 

Representative Watkins serves Kansas' 2nd District, which includes Montgomery County and much of the eastern portion of the state. He is currently in his first term of office.

 

Rep. Estes Releases Statement on Budget Vote

 

Kansas 4th District Representative Ron Estes released a statement following yesterday's vote to increase budget caps and suspend the debt ceiling until July 31, 2021. Estes noted that yesterday's spending bill will increase the federal debt by roughly $2 trillion, and expressed concern with giving Washington "free reign to increase government spending at will while kicking the can down the road". Estes did approve of investments in military spending and protections for pro-life policies.

 

Estes voted against the budget, and again affirmed that he would work with President Donald Trump to cut government spending and grow the nation's economy.

Fire On Penn St. In Coffeyville

 

The Coffeyville Fire Department responded to a shed fire on Penn Street early Thursday morning. On arrival, the shed was fully involved and the Coffeyville Police Department was already on the scene. The fire was extinguished within 15 minutes of CFD arrival and the owner was confirmed to be safe. No injuries were reported, but the shed loss was estimated at $7,500 plus content loss of $10,000.

 

At this time, the fire is considered to be accidental in nature.

Coffeyville Receives AARP Grant For Walking Path

Coffeyville will soon have a new walking path thanks to a grant from the AARP.  Coffeyville’s Area Community Foundation Janie DeVore Gillis says the new walking path will run along 9th Street from downtown to Hall Street.  The State Director of the Kansas AARP, Dr Maren Turner who presented a grant check of $17,950 to the CACF this morning said the Coffeyville project was exactly the type of project AARP was looking to help fund.

 

The project will include resurfacing what was previously an undiscovered sidewalk with bronze markers along the way to mark walkers Protgress and park benches.  Gillis says the project is expected to be completed by November.

CVR Energy Releases Strong Q2 Results

 

CVR Energy has announced strong 2nd Quarter results along with a cash dividend of 75 cents.  The company announced a net income of $166 million on net sales of $1,687 million for the second quarter of 2019.  That compares to $43 million on net sales of $1,914 million for the second quarter a year ago.

 

CEO, Dave Lamp attributed the strong results to safe and reliable operations, lower Renewable Identification Number prices, higher crack spreads and increased fertilizer volumes and pricing.  He also cited the successful sale of it’s crude oil terminal in Cushing, Oklahoma.  Lamp went on to say the fertilizer segment continued to be impacted by wet weather across the Midwest in the second quarter but that the company did experience solid demand and was able to deliver significant volumes of products to customers at netback prices much higher than the same period last year.

Oak Ridge Boys Making Stop In Independence This November

 

It's a little early to think about Christmas, but The Oak Ridge Boys are already thinking ahead, announcing the release date for a new Christmas album as well as upcoming dates for an accompanying tour. Down Home Christmas is set to release October 25th, and among other stops, the Oaks will be visiting Independence, playing at Memorial Hall on November 30th.

 

Other dates in the four-state area include several dates at The Mansion Theatre in Branson, Missouri, and other stops in Park City and Manhattan. The album will feature classics such as "Silent Night" and "Amazing Grace" while also debuting new songs written by Nashville songwriters.

SEK Area At "High Risk" For West Nile Virus

Kansas health officials announced recently that much of Kansas, including the SEK area, is at a high risk for West Nile Virus in the coming weeks. Although the weather has been pleasant and mostly dry through the last couple of days, the floods experienced last month will help an increasing mosquito population over the next few weeks.

 

Although no human cases have been reported in Kansas just yet, the risk level has been set to high because of increased temperatures. Mosquitos will be able to mature quicker from eggs to biting adults.

 

West Nile Virus is not contagious, but can be spread from mosquito bites. Those afflicted can develop a fever, and in worse cases, brain swelling and death. For a list of tips to reduce your risk or avoid West Nile Virus altogether, check out the Kansas Department of Health and Environment 's WNV website here.

ISFR Less Than a Month Away

 

For the 111th consecutive year, the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo will take place at Walter Johnson Park. It runs August 13-17, with activities throughout each day and grandstand entertainment each night. Pre-fair activities begin on Monday August 12th , with the annual bake sale. Livestock and animals have a strong presence at the fair. Six species including beef cattle, hogs, sheep, goats, water fowl, and new this year, market broilers, will be judged. The premium sale will be held Friday, August 16. Returning this year to grandstand entertainment after a three year hiatus is the tractor pull.

 

Fun passes for the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo are available. Fun passes are $35 through July 31 after that, they are $45. Fun passes, plus tickets to each night of grandstand entertainment, can be purchased online at www.fairandrodeo.com or at the Coffeyville Chamber of Commerce.

Update: USD 445/City Dispute

 

After an USD 445 special board meeting last week a dispute between the city and school district was brought to light over an issue with funding a bond. City Manager Mark Hall says one of the reasons for choosing to no longer make those payments has to do with a contract between a large customer.

 

Hall says another reason was the city was supposed to be the last position when it came to making these payments.  He says the first position was the sales tax, the second being state aid, the third was the mill levy and the fourth being the excess electric funds. Hall says if you have any questions the best explanation will come from the city attorney.

Express Ranch Classic

 

For the fifteenth consecutive year PBR’s Unleash The Beast will take over the BOK Center in Tulsa for two nights of action on August 10th and 11th. The Express Ranches Classic, the 18th stop on the premier series, will feature the Top 35 bull riders in the world squaring off against some of the best bulls. The event will also showcase some of the sport’s top up-and-coming bull talent with an ABBI Classic competition, and a 15/15 Bucking Battle, a special round where the world’s Top 15 riders and event’s Top 15 bulls will go head-to-head for additional money and points.

 

Historically, the Tulsa event has played a key role in the World Championship race. Of the past 10 World Champions, six have won the Tulsa event en route to capturing the coveted gold buckle. Those riders are Jess Lockwood in 2017, Cooper Davis in 2016, J.B. Mauney in 2015 and 2013, Renato Nunes in 2010 and Kody Lostroh in 2009.

States Reach $600 Million Settlement With Equifax

 

Kansas and 49 other states and jurisdictions have reached a settlement with Equifax as the result of an investigation into a massive 2017 data breach that exposed the personal information of more than 1.1 million Kansans, Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced in a press release Monday.

 

The investigation found that Equifax’s failure to maintain a reasonable security system enabled hackers to penetrate its systems, exposing the data of 56 percent of American adults—the largest-ever breach of consumer data. The state attorneys general secured a settlement with Equifax that includes a Consumer Restitution Fund of up to $425 million, a $175 million payment to the states, and injunctive relief, which also includes a significant financial commitment.

Equifax has also agreed to take several steps to assist consumers who are either facing identity theft issues or who have already had their identities stolen. Consumers who are eligible for redress will be required to submit claims online or by mail.

Cooking for a Cure

 

BBQ competition, silent auction, free concert and more to help fight cancer. Cooking for a Cure is August 3rd at the Riders Ford Campgrounds north of Lenapah, OK. Organizer Brett Trotter says all proceeds will go to 9 year old Cooper Stout as he fights cancer.

 

Trotter says the doors will open at 1:00pm for motorcycle games and bidding on the silent auction, dinner will be served at 7:00pm and the concert will start at 9:00pm.

Active Shooter Drill For P.S.U Campus

 

 

An active shooter drill will be held at Pittsburg State University in Shirk Hall on July 30. According to University Police Chief Stu Hite, the objectives of doing such a drill is to provide officers and sergeants a valuable real-world scenario in order to practice skills and communication. Additionally, it allows them to practice the use of protective and tactical equipment and gear, and to run through a post-incident debriefing. 

 

Hite said. “This will give officers the opportunity to practice addressing the threat and clearing a room, to work on traffic stops and felony traffic stops, to implement first aid, and to give current and accurate information to dispatch and other officers arriving on the scene.” “Active shooter response is an ever-changing, fluid process and we continue to study after-action reports from incidents across our country and internationally in an attempt to learn from things that went right and wrong in every event,”

 

“Having such a drill assists our staff in being prepared with best practices.” “It’s also an opportunity for sergeants to practice setting up command, controlling the scene, getting officers into the correct tactical positions, and determining where outside responding resources need to be.” 

 

Coffeyville Represented at Select USA

 

Coffeyville was a part of Team Kansas, which is the marketing wing of the Kansas Department of Commerce, at the Select USA Investment Summit. Montgomery County Action Council Executive Director Trisha Purdon says they were the only rural community to attend.

 

Purdon says there were a couple of businesses that were met at this conference that have shown interest in Coffeyville.

Lt. Gov. Headed to Montgomery County

 

Kansas Lieutenant Governor Lynn Rogers will be coming to visit Montgomery County tomorrow as a part of his Rural Prosperty Listening Tour. Montgomery County Action Council Executive Director Trisha Purdon says she is honored to be selected as a cohost for this event.

 

 

Purdon says they plan to tour different businesses, facilities, schools and neighborhoods here in the county.

 

City of Coffeyville Commission Meeting Tomorrow

 

The City of Coffeyville Commission will have its regularly scheduled meeting on Tuesday. The agenda includes two items under new business, including an application from James Littleford to serve on the Montgomery County Juvenile Corrections Board. There will also be a report from the city manager.

 

There will be an opportunity for the public to speak on items not listed on the agenda. The meeting will begin at 6:30 p.m. at City Hall, 102 W. 7th Street in Coffeyville.

AG's Office Continues the Fight Against Scams

 

More than 16 million dollars recovered for Kansas consumers and taxpayers last year by the attorney general’s Consumer Protection Division. AG Derek Schmidt says that brings the total recovery during his time as a attorney general to 225 million dollars which is the most in state history.

 

Schmidt says for more information on how to protect yourself from scams or to file a complaint visit inyourcornerkansas.org.

 

Protecting Animals in Summer

 

 

The heat is on! With summer heat in full effect Becky Barnhardt with Coffeyville Friends of Animals wanted to remind our listeners of some tips for your pets. She says dog houses may not be as “cool” as you think. Most dog house don’t have good circulation making the heat worse. Having a good shade tree or source of shade is best for you animals

 

Barnhardt says if you do have to keep your animal outside for the day, to set up a small pool with water, or freeze their water and allow it to melt through day giving them a freshwater source, She also says to forgive some animals who start to dig more often as they are just trying to cool down.

 

Little Free Library

 

 

A Little Free Library! The Coffeyville Public Library’s, Rachel Rose explained they recently installed a Little Free Library out at Leclere Park here in Coffeyville and explained their inspiration. They hope that individuals who don’t make the effort to come into the Library, will grow their literary skills and reading skills as well as having the ability to share a great read with others.

 

Rose says if you haven’t been out to it yet its located on the northern area of Leclere Park along the trail. Rose encourages you to take a book and leave a book and also says people have been so excited about the north trail location at Leclere park that they hope to add another little free library in South Coffeyville, Dearing or other surrounding areas.

 

Sedan PD Warns of Social Security Scams

 

The Sedan Police Department took to Facebook Thursday to warn of a potential scam involving fake Social Security calls. As a part of the attempted scam, the caller will tell the potential victim that their social security number has been suspended. Sometimes, the caller may even use the real SSA number.

 

As with most phone scams, callers will often target the elderly. If you know anyone who may be susceptible to such a scam, share with them the following information:

 

1. Social Security numbers do not get suspended.

2. You don’t have to verify your number to anyone who calls out of the blue. And your bank accounts are not about to be seized.

3. SSA will never call to threaten your benefits or tell you to wire money, send cash, or put money on gift cards. Anyone who tells you to do those things is a scammer.

4. Never give any part of your Social Security number, bank account or credit card number to anyone who contacts you.

5. If you’re worried about what the caller says, hang up and call 1-800-772-1213 to speak to the real SSA. Even if the wait time is long, confirm with the real SSA before responding to one of these calls.

 

If you do continue to receive attempted scam calls, you can file a complaint with the FTC by going to their complaints homepage.

 

 

Fire At Coffeyville's Family Dollar Store

The cause of a fire at Coffeyville’s Family Dollar Thursday evening is under investigation.  Fire Captain Rex Reardon of the Coffeyville Fire Department says the cause of the fire is  undetermined at this time.  All Coffeyville units and off-duty fire personnel responded to fight the blaze along with firefighters from South Coffeyville.  Traffic on 11th Street was down to one lane in each direction during the 5:00pm hour as fire fighters worked to extinguish the fire.  Reardon says the fire was confined to the west end of the store however, extensive smoke and water damage was visible throughout the building.  No damage estimates are available at this time.

Noxious Weed Workshop

 

 

Noxious weed season. It’s that time of year where noxious weeds start growing rampant through ditches and pastures. James Coover with the K-State Extension office explained they are hosting a course on managing these weeds. The course will take place Thursday August 8th from 5:30 PM to 9 PM  at the Southeast Research & Extension Center at 25092 Ness Rd. in Parsons. There will be several speakers including Ed Fields on controlling Noxious Weeds, Jamie Buamgardner on new weed technologies, Paul Kear as well as Scotty Ohnoutka. Dinner will be provided that night as Coover says you will need to call  620 784 5391 and register.

Excessive Heat Warning Issued For SEK Area

 

For the next few days, extra precautions are recommended as an excessive heat warning remains in effect for much of the SEK area. Temperatures are expected to reach the high 90s or triple-digits as a heat wave passes through the area.

 

To keep yourself safe from the heat, avoid excessive time outdoors. If you must head outside, make sure to apply sunscreen early and often. Drink plenty of water, and never leave pets or children inside a car. In addition, stay away from sugar-based drinks or alcohol.

 

It's expected to be cooler next week, with temperatures potentially dropping to the low-to-mid 80s.

Last Chance U Returns Tomorrow

 

Netflix's Last Chance U: Indy Part 2 is set to makes its debut on Netflix tomorrow. Coming off a Kansas Jayhawk Conference Championship in 2017 the Pirates were confident heading into the 2018 season. The Last Chance U crew will follow a drastic drop off as the ICC football team goes 2-8 in the 2018 season.

 

Allegedly the Netflix camera crew returened after the text message incident between now former Head Coach Jason Brown and the German football player Alexandros Alexiou. With Coach Brown gone from the Pirates and facing his own legal issues the conclusion of ICC's run on Last Chance U could be one to watch.

Hops Around Town Is Looking For Sponsors

 

 

Hops around town! It’s the Brew Festival with many breweries, wineries and distilleries heading downtown Coffeyville in October as Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook mentioned, there still looking for sponsors to be involved in the great downtown event. If your interested in sponsoring Hops Around Town your encouraged to call the chamber at 620-251-2550.

 

Westbrook mentioned it will take place on Saturday October 12th on 9th street in downtown Coffeyville. There will be tastings from over 10 breweries, wineries and distilleries. A corn hole tournament will take place and other events down on 9th street.  They encourage you to bring your lawn chairs as the different breweries and wineries will be there from 2 to 6 PM, but they encourage you to hang out all day.

 

 

Ladies Football 101 Coming Up Next Month

 

A chance to learn the ins and outs of football. Ladies Football 101 at the Coffeyville Community College is coming up August 8th. Chamber of Commerce Director Candi Westbrook says she's been a couple of times and encourages you to attend.

 

Westbrook says the cost is $65 registration will start at 5:30 that night with the event starting at 6:00. If you have any questions or want to make reservations you can contact Jana Kastler.

KGGF KQQF KUSN Text Alerts

 

You can sign up for text updates on the KGGF website. You can get alerts for news, weather and sports for Southeastern Kansas and Northeastern Oklahoma. Sign up for these alerts by going to kggfradio.com and clicking on the “Text Updates” bar on the right side of the screen. Any phone can get alerts as long as you have text messaging. You'll get updates on severe weather, half time and end game scores for local high school and college football and basketball as well as breaking news updates.

 

Alerts are brought to you by Equity Bank.

Pittsburg State S.G.A. Reunion

 

 

Pittsburg State is inviting alumni of the PSU Student Government Association back to campus for a celebration of the 100th anniversary of SGA. The reunion will kick off Thursday evening, Oct. 17, at Carnie Smith Stadium. On that next Friday morning, President Steve Scott will host breakfast, followed by campus tours of the newest buildings and much more. Alumni may ride in the Homecoming parade on Saturday Oct. 19, followed by an open house at the SGA Office in the Overman Student Center and a reunion photo. The weekend will conclude with a reunion tailgate in Gorilla Village followed by the football game in Carnie Smith Stadium. 

 

SGA Alumni Reunion attendees will receive a t-shirt, and a limited-edition anniversary lapel pin. To register, contact PSU Alumni & Constituent Relations at 620-235-4758 or visit pittstate.edu/alumni.

New Doctors at CRMC


Coffeyville Regional Medical Center welcomes two new doctors to town. Dr. Richard Brown for Internal Medicine and Dr. Rusty Allison for Orthopedic Surgery. Dr. Brown comes to CRMC most recently from Horton Community Hospital and Medical Clinic in Horton, Kansas, where he also served as the Chief of Staff. He has many years of extensive experience in both a clinic and hospital setting. Dr. Allison comes to CRMC from Russellville, Arkansas. He received his medical degree from the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences. His specialties include hip, knee, shoulder surgeries and replacements, hand surgeries, and sports medicine.

 

Both doctors are excited to be apart of CRMC and are ready to see patients.

I.C.C Youth Football Clinic

 

 

Free Football! Independence Chamber Director Lisa Wilson says a youth football clinic is coming to Independence this weekend. It will be this Saturday put on by the I.C.C. Pirates football team and there new Head Coach Kiyoshi Harris. Wilson says this a free event for kids of all ages, making it a great affordable way to introduce kids to the game, learn new skills  as well as to meet some College Football players and coaches.

 

Children of all ages and skill levels are encouraged to attend. Starting this Saturday with registration at 8 and the camp going from 9-11. To pre-register you can contact Brittany Thotnton at ICC by calling 816-785-7125, or email at bthornton@indycc.edu

Planning Commission Applications Due Soon

 

If you're planning on applying to the Independence Planning Commission, there's not much time left! Applications are due by August 1st, 2019. Applicants must live within city limits to be considered. The application can be found by visiting the city website, or by clicking here.

Dispute Between City of Coffeyville and USD 445

 

Patrons of the Coffeyville School District may be faced with a tax increase if a dispute between the school district and City of Coffeyville is not worked out soon.  The Board of Education met in a special session today to discuss a recent letter to the district by Coffeyville City Manager Mark Hall saying the city would no longer make payments to the school district from excess electric utility funds under an agreement made in 2002.

 

Under that agreement the city pledged funds to the school district to meet financial obligations under a school bond election in 2002.  Superintendent, Dr. Craig Correll says the elimination of the payments by the city leaves the school district short on it’s budget.  The agreement was considered innovative at the time for it’s cooperation between the city and school district to relieve the burden on taxpayers.

 

In his letter to the school district City Manager Mark Hall said “no could have predicted how different things would look today, than they did 17 years ago” when the agreement was executed.  The letter went on to say “the City’s margin on electric revenues continues to be constricted while costs increase; the City has limited ability to increase rates.”  Hall could not be reached for comment this afternoon.

 

The school board moved to executive session today to discuss their options.

Storming Area 51

 

A Facebook user has created an event set for September 20th titled “Storm Area 51, They Can't Stop Us All”. The event which has become national talk and somewhat of a joke has over 2 million people either interested in or marked as going. KGGF listeners share their opinion on the matter.

 

The Air Force did come out with a statement saying the military stands ready, but no other comments have been made. As far as the majority of KGGF listeners none are prepared to storm Area 51.

Kansas AG on Food Assistance Programs

 

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly dropped a policy, that was started back in May, that allowed several thousand Kansas adults to receive food assistance after failing to meet work requirements. Attornery General Derek Schmidt, who fought Governor Kelly on this policy, says this is an example of enforcing the law the way its written.

 

Schmidt says they adopted a firm line that says if you aren't working then you aren't getting anymore then the three months, however he says you if are working you continue to get the benefits.

Raven Review

 

 

The Raven Review! A great way to reflect on the previous year that Coffeyville Community College had as Director of Student Relations Yvonne Hull explains its available for order! The review contains academic achievements from many students and groups as well as the many great athletic achievements from 2019. Hull says if your interested in the review to call her on campus at 620-252-7095. 

 

She also wanted to remind everyone that on August 13th is the start of the Fall Semester, meaning there is still time to enroll as well to expect some new faces in our community.

 

Men's Softball League Registration Open

 

 

The Coffeyville Recreation Commission is now accepting registrations for its 2019 men's softball league. Registration opened up Friday and will be open until August 9th. Games will be played on Friday evenings at LeClere Park, and will consist of 10 games. 

 

A $50 deposit will be required at time of registration. However, the total team fee will cost $260 per team, and is due by August 22nd. Rosters may contain up to 15 players.

 

For more information, contact the CRC office at 620-251-5910 or click here.

Special City Commission Hearing to Be Held Tuesday

 

 

There'll be a special meeting for the Independence City Commission on Tuesday, as the city begins its search for a new city manager. There'll be a general discussion as the city starts moving forward, and other related topics will be discussed as well. Last week, previous city manager Craig Whitehead was announced as having resigned his position. The meeting will start at 9:00 a.m. and will be held in the Veterans Room at Memorial Hall. 

 

 

High Speed Chase Goes Through Caney

 

Friday, Montgomery County Deputies were advised of a vehicle pursuit coming to Kansas on Highway 75. Before deputies could arrive the vehicle went through Caney and crashed into a ditch at US 75 and US 166 at the four way stop north of Caney. Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Caney Police had the two suspects in custody when deputies arrived. The suspects are identified as 28 year old Prentise Norwood and 26 year old Arrington Jennings both from Coffeyville. Norwood was arrested on various traffic charges as well as a warrant out of Montgomery County and Jennings was also arrested on a Montgomery County Warrant.

 

No one was injured during the incident.

Deadly Crash Just Outside Coffeyville

 

A woman has died in a crash Saturday night just outside of Coffeyville. Around 5:30 p.m, Charlotte Wheeler, 68, of Coffeyville, was heading west on US-166 when her pickup truck dropped off the left shoulder, overcorrected and entered the south ditch.

 

The truck then rolled several times and ejected Wheeler. According to a Kansas Highway Patrol crash report, she had been speeding at the time of the accident. Emergency crews were called to the scene, where the truck had rolled up against a fence. Wheeler was pronounced dead at the scene.

Market Broiler Chickens Making Debut at Inter-State Fair

 

For the first time in the 111 years, market broiler chickens will be a part of the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo. The chickens will be a part of show, with the champion and reserve champion being sold during the livestock premium sale. 

 

While many county and state fairs have allowed the showing of market broilers, this will be the first time it can be done at the Coffeyville event. An increased interest in poultry and the overall cost-effectiveness for youth were cited as two reasons for the change. 

 

The chickens will be accepted in pens of three. While the champion and reserve champion will be sold during the premium sale, other market broilers shown during the event will be able to be sold to the public.

 

This year is the 111th rendition of the Inter-State Fair and Rodeo. Grandstand entertainment takes place nightly, from August 13-17.

"Newsies" Next Pittsburg Community Theatre Production

 

Musical fans will be pleased to know that they can still purchase tickets for Pittsburg Community Theatre's performance of Newsies.

 

The musical tells the rousing tale of Jack Kelly, a charismatic newsboy and leader of a band of teenaged "newsies." When titans of publishing raise distribution prices at the newsboys’ expense, Jack rallies newsies from across the city to strike against the unfair conditions and fight for what's right.

 

The show will have multiple performances next week, starting on July 18 and then running through July 21. The show will be held at Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium. Tickets can be purchased by visiting the Memorial Auditorium box office at 503 N. Pine Street, calling 620-231-7827, or visiting the auditorium website, which you can visit here.

230 Crime Victims to Receive Financial Support

 

The Kansas Crime Victims Compensation Board last week awarded financial assistance to 230 victims of violent crime at its July meeting, Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt announced in a press release on Friday.

 

Awards were made in 109 new cases, and additional expenses were paid in 121 previously submitted cases. The awards totaled $180,114.82.

The Division of Crime Victims Compensation in Schmidt’s office administers the Crime Victims Compensation program, which was established in 1978 to help victims of violent crime pay for their unexpected expenses such as medical treatment, mental health counseling, lost wages, dependent support and funeral expenses.

 

The state’s three-member Crime Victims Compensation Board determines claims that are eligible for payment and how much money will be awarded to each claimant. Awards are limited to a maximum total amount of $25,000 with limitations of $5,000 for funeral expense, $5,000 for outpatient mental health counseling, $10,000 for inpatient mental health treatment and $1,500 for grief counseling for family survivors of homicide victims.

 

A portion of assessed court costs and fines, inmate wages, parole fees and restitution paid by convicted offenders provides funding to the program.

Tailgate Party at Next Outdoor Movie!

 

Mark your calendars for a tailgate party at the next outdoor movie at Coffeyvill's Midland Theater. Support Coffeyville’s Reawakening by getting your friends and family to  to have a picnic or tailgate party at next month's downtown movie. It's going to be a special feature of the movie Grease.

 

Coffeyville's Reawakening member, Peggy Steele, says there will be prizes and surprises. Look alike contest, dance contest, and a costume contest. Music from the 50’s and 60’s, and a Grease sing along.

 

It's Friday, August 23rd. The movie begins at nightfall around 9:00. You can expect it to end about two hours later (the movie is 1 hr 51 min). 

Prep Begins for the Summer Celebration

 

The Coffeyville Summer Celebration gets under way bright and early tomorrow morning. The Farmer’s Market will be in the normal Saturday location just across from the Rec Center beginning at 7:00am.  The 5K/1K fun run begins at 7:30am with registration beginning at 7:00am by the Ron Stevenson Building, which is north of the baseball field. There is no cost to participate in the run. Due to the fun run, East 8th Street will be closed from County Road 5300 to the ice machine from 7:15am to 9:30am. There will be activities all throughout the day, including a Kids Power Wheels Show and Cruise and a free Car Show. The night will end with a big fireworks display.

 

The Summer Celebration crew has a special Coffeyville’s 150th Anniversary fireworks tribute planned at the beginning of the fireworks show. You don’t want to miss this event.

July 20: Class Captains Leading Charge for Coffeyville's Reawakening

 

Coffeyville's Reawakening is calling all graduates of Field Kindley High School. One of the leaders, Peggy Steele, says they think they'll raise over a million dollars this month and get 50 classes re-engaged.

 

Steele says, "The class challenge funds go to help bring in businesses downtown as well as help current businesses upgrade storefronts etc. Helps the Midland [Theater] and helps with loans to people who fix blighted property or in older sections."

 

The Class Challenge meeting for Class Captains is Saturday, July 20th at 9:00 in the morning over at the Coffeyville's Reawakening headquarters, 115 W. 9th St. If you have questions, call 303-898-0670.

Independence Main Street Requests Increase in Funding

 

Two presentations took place at Thursday's Independence City Commission meeting, including one from Independence Main Street during which the organization requested an increase of $5,000 to $25,000 for 2020. If accepted, the increase would represent the first in several years. In the past, the budget was higher than $25,000, but was lowered to the current amount by a previous commission.

 

Currently, the Independence Main Street organization offers several programs in its efforts to improve the city. Some of these include the Summer Sidewalk sale, the Pub Crawl, the Sip and Shop and more.

 

The other presentation at the meeting, a similar budget request from the Independence Public Library, saw the library ask for no additional money for 2020.

Pollinator Habitat Created at Rest Area

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation has established a pollinator habitat at the Montgomery County Rest Area at the intersection between U.S.. 169 and U.S.. 400. Thanks to a partnership with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks, and Tourism, KDOT was awarded $65,000 toward the planting of over 125 acres of pollinator habitat across Kansas, with the work to be done over this summer and the summer of 2020. 

 

The actions come in the wake of declining bee and Monarch butterfly populations across the United States. The habitats include milkweed, native grasses and wildflowers to attract butterflies and bees to the area.

 

Other habitats will be established at the Linn County Rest Area, the I-35 and U.S. 59 interchange at Ottawa, and the I-35 and Homestead lane interchange in Johnson County.

ICC Names Interim President

 

There's a new interim president at Independence Community College. At the regularly scheduled ICC Board of Trustees meeting on Thursday, George C. Knox was named as the interim college president while the search continues for a permanent replacement.

 

Knox currently serves as the executive director for the Council on Accreditation for Two-Year Colleges and accepted the additional opportunity to serve as interim president of ICC while a national search is conducted for the college's next president.

 

Knox has previously served as president at two other community colleges, including 12 years spent at Labette Community College and five years at Cloud County Community College in Concordia, Kansas. 

 

The Board also announced they would be hiring a national firm to conduct the search for ICC's next president.

Independence City Manager Resigns

 

The Independence City Commission accepted the resignation of City Manager Craig Whitehead during its regularly scheduled meeting Thursday.

 

The meeting began with a 10-minute exectuive session during which city commissioners met with City Attorney Dan Reynolds. After reopening the meeting, the resignation was placed on the common consent agenda and approved.

 

Whitehead was not present for the meeting. Assistant City Manager Kelly Passauer has been named the interim city manager until a replacement has been found. Stay tuned for more information as it becomes available.

New Park Coming to Coffeyville

 

A park on 9th Street is coming soon. Leader of Coffeyville's Reawakening, Peggy Steele, tells the public that a 501c3 non-profit status has been successfully formed just for 9th Street, and a park will soon be there.
 

Peggy also gave an update on the 9th Street Fresh community garden. Not only are 9 plots available, but they also have seeds to provide to anyone who is interested in planting for a late summer harvest such as watermelon and pototatoes, or pumpkins for early Fall.

 

You may contact her on Facebook, Peggy Olinger Steele Olson.

 

(The folllowing photo courtesy of Peggy Steele)

 

150th Gala Tickets on Sale July 15

 

Continue celebrating Coffeyville's 150th by attending the Gala at the Historic Brown Mansion this September 28th. Tickets go on sale Monday July 15th. They have 11 tables available.

 

Each table seats 8 people. They are first come first served. Individual seats are $25 each, and an entire table is $500. Those who buy tables will draw a number to determine its location.

 

Live music, hors d'oeuvres, drinks, dancing. Social hour begins at 6:30pm. Tickets are available at the Chamber and Equity Bank.

 

July 13: Caney Valley Speedway Race

 

The Caney Valley Speedway will be racing this Saturday July 13th. They'll be running G&G Dozer Late Models, USRA B-Mods, Factory Stock, and Stock cars.

 

Admission for adults $10, seniors $5, kids 12 and under are free. Pit passes $30.

 

Gates open at 4:00pm, racing starts at 7:30pm.

Coffeyville Chosen for Statewide Philanthropy Initiative

 

The Coffeyville Area Community Foundation has been chosen by the Kansas Health Foundation and Network Kansas, along with three other city foundations, to be a pilot group for a new statewide initiative to address statewide economic developoment - the Kansas Community Philanthropy Innovators Network (Kansas CPIN). See this page for more about it and the four community foundations.

 

Coffeyville's Janie DeVore Gillis leads says we are fortunate to be selected and explains how it works.

 

The Coffeyville Area Community Foundation was selected because of its "demonstrated commitment to engage in community and economic development". Gillis said all four communities will be coming together at an event in September right here in Coffeyville

 

Besides Janie DeVore Gillis, core team members include Mark Muller, Mike Shook, Ryan Thompson, and Trisha Purdon.

 

 

July 12: City Band Pre-Shows Another Outdoor Movie

 

Don't forget the next outdoor movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark, is tomorrow, Friday. Grab your lawn chairs, sit back and listen to the City Municipal Band perform before the show at 8:00pm. Then at dark around 9:00, the movie begins next to the Midland's marquee. Popcorn is free thanks to Community State Bank, and candy and drinks are available for purchase.

 

President of the Midland Theater Foundation, Haylie Bagwell, says don't miss the outdoor movie or the upcoming Aug. 10 show, Vaude in the Ville.

 

This Friday's outdoor movie is FREE, but Haylie is waiting for you to

call her personally to purchase your Vaude in the Ville tickets: 620-303-0391

 

Elder Abuse Statistics

 

The Southeast Kansas Safety Coalition hosted a Lunch & Learn yesterday (Wed, July 10) at the Yoke Bar & Grill in Coffeyville to help people recognize signs and symptoms of anxiety and depression in the elderly, and how they are tied to elder abuse.

 

Sonia Larimore, Director of Assisted Living at Windsor Place tells us the statistics on who are abusing the elderly. It may or may not surprise you. Click here to listen.

 

Larimore said elder abuse is not just physical, emotional, or sexual. It is very often taking advantage of them to take their money.

 

If you missed the Lunch & Learn, you can still find the information through Assisted Living at Windsor Place. They are happy to help, so give them a call at 620-251-0214.

 

 

City Gets Update on Coffeyville's Reawakening

 

Peggy Steele addressed city commissioners last night with an update on Coffeyville's Reawakening.

 

 

 

Peggy is encouraging everyone to get involved. Several meetings are in July.

  1. The volunteer meeting is Wednesday 7/17 at 5:30pm.
  2. The Class Captains meeting is Saturday 7/20 at 9:00 in the morning.
  3. The Neighborhood Board Meeting is Monday 7/22 at 4:00pm.

All are at the headquarters of Coffeyville's Reawakening, 115 W. 9th St.

 

Peggy tells city commissioners that the city needs to modernize ASAP with fiber optics technology.

 

Also, another way to help is to take the Survey for Coffeyvile's Reawakening. The prior deadline of June 1st allowed organizers to get the first round of feedback on what is important to the community for downtown and neighbhorhood revitalization. Current results indicate restaurants, retail stores, adn entertainment/tourism are the top three priorities for residents.

 

Do yoou agree? Click HERE to take the easy, online survey. They want to hear from you!

 

Check Coffeyville's Reawakening page for updates.

Beer Request for 9th Street October Festival

 

At last night's city commission meeting, Candi Westbrook from the Chamber presented the request for an approved ordinance to serve beer downtown on 9th St. for the beer festival coming October 12th.

 

Once the ordinance is approved, tickets will be for sale for the Hops Around Town Beer Festival. Microbreweries and wineries will be at the event serving samples.

July 11 Free Non-Partisan Voter Registration Training

 

A free, non-partisan voter registration training is in Independence Thursday, July 11.You can help get out the vote by registering voters or helping them to update their registration information. 

 

The Kansas League of Women Voters and Kansas Appleseed will be teaching how to register new voters for the 2019 elections. 

 

It cover what’s needed to register to vote, free voter registration tools and resources, legal requirements for voting, voter registration techniques, and more.

 

It will be at the Independence Public Library from 5:30 to 7:00pm, 220 E. Maple.

July 23 Lt. Gov. World Prosperity Tour and Public Session

 

Lt. Governor Lynn Rogers will be here for the World Prosperity Listening Tour on July 23. MCAC's Trisha Purdon told the Coffeyville City Commission that she was recently selected co-host of the Lt. Governor's tour which she says is a critical component to what we might see in the next legislative session.

 

Purdon says MCAC will represent all of the southern half of Southeast Kansas. Click here to hear some of the locations in the tour.

 

The tour starts at 7:30 in the morning and will not end until about 9:00 at night. The public session starts at 6:00pm at ICC West. It's first-come-first-served, so if you'd like to go, be sure to RSVP on MCAC's website.

 

You may also call 620-331-3830 or email Trisha at tpurdon@actioncouncil.com

MCAC to City About Tyson and Walmart

 

The Coffeyville City Commission met yesterday evening. Following the regular consent agenda, Trisha Purdon, executive director of the Montgomery County Action Council presented a quarterly report which included an update on the Economic Development Strategic Plan which is now complete as of two weeks ago.

 

35 jobs have been created in the county through MCAC's assistance. Purdon said Walmart has moved into the Amazon building and are optimistic of a long-term stay using the building for new technology, building displays, and training personnel. As for Tyson, the ball is now in the City of Coffeyville's court as commissioners will be looking at a site to make sure it qualifies through a site-selection process (5-minute audio).

Last Week for Coffeyville's City Clerk

 

Coffeyville city commissioners and the public recognized one of our city servants at last night's city commission meeting. On behalf of all commissioners and city staff, Commissioner Chris Williams expressed appreciation for City Clerk Cindy Price. This is her last week.

 

Price has been the City Clerk of Coffeyville for 19 years, was with the Chamber of Commerce for 13 years, and prior to that was with MCAC when they started in 1985.

 

Cindy has been serving the City of Coffeyville for 35 years.

Test Drive a Ford Support CYF

 

Come test drive a new Ford to help support the Cherryvale Youth Fair. As a part of their “Ford Drive 4 UR Community” program Ford will donate $20 for each family that comes out for a test drive. The test drives will be at the Northeast Corner of Logan Park in Cherryvale on Friday between 2:00pm and 7:00pm. You must be 18 or older and have a valid driver's license and auto insurance.

 

They need 300 households to participate in the test drive to reach their goal of $6,000.

Holiday Creates Low Blood Supply

 

Following a difficult 4th of July week for blood donations and ongoing challenges finding new blood donors, the American Red Cross now faces a blood shortage and has issued an emergency call for eligible individuals of all blood types to give now and prevent delays in medical care.

 

About 450 fewer blood drives were organized by businesses and other community groups last week than during a typical week as people across the country celebrated the holiday with activities and travel. This led to about 17,000 fewer blood donations than needed for patients in a single week, causing the Red Cross to now have less than a three-day supply of most blood types available and less than a two-day supply of type O blood for patients. At least a five-day supply is desired.

Missing from Coffeyville Since July 4th

 

The Coffeyville Police Department gave KGGF a missing person report today. Captain Danny Grigg says Kirstin Thomison, age 38, was officially reported missing on the 4th of July.

 

Captain Grigg said it doesn't look like any foul play. Kirstin, your family is worried about you. If you are able, please check in with your family or the police.

 

If anyone has information, please contact the Coffeyville Police Department at 620-252-6160.

Labette County Calls Special Commission Meeting

 

The Labette County Commission is holding a Special Meeting/budget work session this Friday, July 12th at 8:00 in the morning in the Commission Room which is on the first floor of the courthouse, 517 Merchant St. in Oswego.

 

For more information, call the county clerk's office at 620-795-2138 extension 301.

Life Skills at Caney City Library

 

Kids will be learning life skills at the Caney City Library every Thursday at noon starting this week.

 

The life skills program kicks off this Thursday, July 11, with a cooking class. Next Thursday, July 18 is budgeting, then finance on July 25, cursive writing August 1, and finally car maintenance ends the program on August 6.

 

Kids ages 13 and up may attend. Every class starts at 12:00 noon. The Caney City Library is at 211 W. 5th St. For more information, call the library at 620-879-5341 or go to caney.mykansaslibrary.org.

 

USD 445 Board Reorganizes

 

Coffeyville Public Schools had their monthly meeting yesterday evening (Monday, July 8th). The annual reorganization of the board of education took place. Darrel Harbaugh was re-elected as President. Bob Roesky was re-elected Vice President, and Roesky was also elected to represent USD 445 on the board for the Tri-County Special Education Cooperative.

 

School board members adopted their annual accountability plan which guides the board and district on various goals and objectives. 

 

Superintendent Dr. Craig Correll said, “Our community is fortunate to have such a dedicated board of education.”

Independence City Commission Agenda For Thursday

 

 

The Independence City Commission will meet once again this Thursday with a couple of budget presentations on the agenda. Jeri Hopkins, the director of the Independence Public Library, has submitted the library's 2020 budget request. In addition, Independence Main Street has submitted a budget request of $25,000 for the commission to consider.

 

The full agenda can be viewed here. The city commission meeting will start at 5:30 p.m. in the Veterans Room at Memorial Hall.

Commissioners Hear Plans: Restore Old Courthouse and MCAC Mid-Year Report

 

The Montgomery County Commissioners had their weekly meeting this morning and one highlight includes the public works coordinator Jim Wright along with maintenance supervisor Jeff Phelps presenting a cost estimate given to them by architect Leonhard Caflisch for the restoration of the old courthouse.

 

It would include water proofing, tuck pointing, removing and re-attaching screens, painting and re-caulking exposed wood, brushing off and cleaning stains, and replacing steps on the north and sides of the building, both of which would be moved. Because of the magnitude of the project, Commissioner Robert Bever suggested it be prioritized into separate projects so the work can be done in phases to start in year 2020 or 2021.

 

The cost is estimated at $180-200,000 with the architectural fee at $2,500-3,000 with Jeff Phelps doing most of the inspection. The most expensive part is water proofing ranging from $80-100,000, but replacing the steps is the most critical to prevent the danger of people falling. Commissioners will review that at a future meeting and are considering setting up a special fund to pay for it. 

 

Also, the Montgomery County Action Council gave their mid-year report. Executive Director Trisha Purdon said Walmart has moved into the Amazon building and are optimistc they will be there for the long term. Walmart is not doing distribution out of the building, but instead using it to build new technology and displays, as well as training.

 

The Tyson project is still moving forward, and the timeline will be known after they finish the Humboldt Tennessee project, likely late Fall of this year before any new projects will be initiated for a new Tyson plant in Kansas. Two other industrial site visits are upcoming – one in late Summer and other in early Fall.

 

Purdon said the MCAC website has been updated to see who is actually visiting, and this has provided two leads to bring business into the county.

 

Janie Gillis of Coffeyville Area Community Foundation has been selected to lead rural revitalization in Coffeyville using philanthropy dollars. Three other cities are doing the same, following the Coffeyville's Reawakening model.

 

Here is the handout of the report for more details:

 

 

 

Cherokee County Arrests

 

Cherokee County Sheriff's Office arrested two suspects Friday who fled on foot after being involved in a one vehicle non-injury crash at the Riverton Roundabout. The suspects, 27-year-old Kyle Baker and 25-year-old Kayla Ann Gordon were taken into custody on a variety of charges stemming from a recent string of vehicle thefts and property damage.

 

The two fled the scene after crashing a 2008 Ford Escpape reported stolen. According to Cherokee County Sheriff David Groves, detectives have linked them to multiple other crimes within the county and neighboring states. The two are linked to the burglary and theft of a 1998 Dodge Truck, a Toyota Scion, and a 2005 Dodge Ram truck, along with recent vandalism.

 

Baker and Gordon are being held in the Cherokee County Jail without bond.

 

  • Baker faces allegations of 4 counts of Burglary, 4 counts of Possessing Stolen Property, 3 counts of Felony Theft, 4 counts of Criminal Trespass, 2 counts of Criminal Damage to Property and 2 Outstanding Warrants for his arrest. 
  • Gordon is being held without bond on allegations of 4 counts of Burglary, 4 counts of Possessing Stolen Property, 4 counts of Criminal Trespass, 3 counts of Felony Theft, 2 counts of Criminal Damage to Property and 4 Outstanding Warrants for her arrest.

 

 

 

KGGF Loses a Member of the Family

 

The KGGF family is feeling heart-broken. Former News Director Debra Woodall passed away on Friday. Deb, who started at KGGF in May of 2016, was a Southeast Kansas native and graduate of Caney Valley High School. She was an award winning news reporter and has been honored by the Kansas Association of Broadcasters, Oklahoma Association of Broadcasters, Kansas Associated Press, and the RTNDA. She was a National Edward R. Murrow Award Winner for Best Newscast. Deb was very passionate about the news industry and loved to tell a story. She was mentor and a friend to all of us here at KGGF and will be greatly missed. Our thoughts and prayers go out to her husband Marty and their family including Deb's beloved dog Buster Pup.

 

Her funeral services will be this Wednesday at 1:00pm at Conerstone Church in Caney. Donations can be made in Deb's name for a Broadcasting/Communication Scholarship at CCC. David W Barnes Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.

National Night Out in Coffeyville

 

The Coffeyville Police Department would like to invite you to their 7th annual National Night Out – It's Tuesday, August 6th from 5:30 to 8:00pmThis national annual event is celebrated by millions of people across thousands of communities across our country, and for Coffeyville, it's "to encourage friendship and community".

 

Coffeyville residents will get to swim for free at the Aquatic Center with a bouncy house, games and more - thanks to the Coffeyville Police Department!

Agenda for Coffeyville City Commission

 

Tuesday the 9th is Coffeyville's regular city commission meeting. Following the invocation by Pastor Joey Barrett of First Church of Christ, the Montgomery County Action Council will be giving their quarterly report.

 

Also on the agenda is the first reading of an ordinance to allow alcohol to be served on 9th Street during the Coffeyville Area Chamber of Commerce’s Hops Around Town Beer Festival event scheduled for October 12th.

 

Following a public comment period and executive session, a sales tax report as well as a police department r eport will both be given before the meeting adjourns.

 

The public is encouraged to attend – it starts at 6:30pm on the 2nd floor of City Hall at 102 W. 7th St.

 

Go here for the full agenda.

S.T.E.M. for Girls

 

 

STEM for girls returning back at the I.C.C. FabLab! A free, 3 week course at the FabLab in Independence Community College as they still have a few spots left open! Director Joanne Smith says the goal is to expose these girls to STEM based programs they may not have thought of doing. It’s a FREE, 3 week intensive course teaching girls STEM based projects and problem solving. Classes are held Monday-Friday from 9AM to 3PM and the course runs from July 15th to August 2nd. For more information contact Smith at 620-330-3006 or email fabcreativeservices@gmial.com.

 

The program is for girls in 6th through 8th grades and is from July 16th through August 2nd. To apply to the program you must visit fablabicc.org and the student must supply a 50 word paragraph stating why she wants to enter the program.

 

U.S. Senator Inhofe Contacts KGGF About Rebuilding Military

 

U.S. Senator for the State of Oklahoma, Jim Inhofe, Chairman of the Senate Armed Services Committee, contacted KGGF News from Washington DC to share the "good news" that Congress and the Trump Administration is finally getting ahead with rebuilding the military with the reintroduction of the National Defense Authorization Act.

 

He recently met with the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, who wonders why so many Americans are against border security. Netanyahu told him that without border security, the people of Israel "would all be dead".

 

Sen. Inhofe wants people to know the military is finally being rebuilt, and he added that people are shocked when they find out the United States economy is better than it's ever been in history, with “better than full employment, and minority employment has never been as high as it is now.”

 

 

New Band Director at USD 445

 

Coffeyville Public Schools just hired its new band director for Field Kindley and Roosevelt Middle. KGGF met Thomas MacKiewicz following the city band's performance outside The Midland. He's from Colorado, the Town of Kiowa near Denver, and he says he was looking for an opportunity like this one.

 

MacKiewicz plays the trumpet with the city band which will be performing again next Friday the 12th outside the Midland at 8:00pm before the outdoor movie starts.

 

Welcome to Coffeyville, Mr. MacKiewicz!

Agenda for USD 445 Board Meeting

 

Monday, July 8th is the next school board meeting for USD 445 Coffeyville Public Schools. At the top of the agenda is action for board reorganization, including the election of a board president, vice president, and the assignment of a representative to the Tri-County Special Education Cooperative.

 

The consent agenda has 26 items including designating several positions such as Treasurer, Clerk, 504 Coordinator, Homeless Coordinator, and others. Several resolutions are to be adopted, and they will be approving the school calendar, lunch agreement with Holy Name Catholic School, and various other items.

 

The full agenda can be downloaded by clicking on this link.

 

Donations Being Accepted for National Night Out

 

The Fredonia Police Department is preparing for its 8th annual National Night Out, and is asking area businesses, organizations, and residents for help in funding the event. The event will take place August 6, 2019 at the Fredonia Swimming Pool. According to a post on the police department's Facebook page, the event is solely supported by donations from those in the area.

 

Monetary donations can be sent to the Fredonia Police Department at 128 Adams, ZIP code 66736. Checks should be made payable to the Fredonia Police Department. For more information about how businesses and organizations may assist with the event, click here.

 

National Night Out is a drug and crime prevention event sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch. It's designed to heighten drug and crime awareness and strengthen the bonds between the police department and the community. Residents can enjoy free swimming, games and food while receiving crime prevention information.

Safe@Home Program

 

 

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is offering a new class called Safe@Home. Safe@Home provides instruction on staying safe inside & outside the house, online, and with others for students in grades 4th-6th to equip them when they are home alone. Safe@Home is a 90-minute program where they will learn how to prevent unsafe situations. Students are also introduced to the Safe Sitter® First Aid Chart and learn a system to help them assess and respond to injuries and illnesses. The program takes place July 27th at 9:00am-10:30am in the 4th Floor Conference Room at CRMC. There is a $10 fee for the class and booklet and you can pay the day of the class. Registration is required, and can be done by calling 620-252-2201 or email, at ashleyt@crmcinc.org.

Blackberries at Nowata's CAN Community Garden

 

The blackberries are turning ripe at Nowata's Community Advancement Network community garden. They are FREE to everyone. They just ask that you be considerate of others and only pick what you can use.

 

The community garden is at 111 N. Market St. in Nowata.

 

(Photo courtesy of Nowata CAN)

July 7 - Southern African Minister Brings Miracles to Coffeyville

 

During this Independence weekend, a special visitor from Southern Africa is in Coffeyville. Pastor Joe Brooks says Brother Blessings Truth Mwakibinga from Malawi has been the mediator of great miracles for the last 18 years.

 

Pastor Brooks said Brother Blessings has planted 45 churches in Malawi in just this year alone, and plans to have 100 by the end of the year. He'll be praying for anyone who needs healing or deliverance this weekend. Experience the true miracles of God through Christ Jesus this Sunday at River of Life Tabernacle. Services are Sunday, July 7th at 10:00am, and again at 2:00 in the afternoon.

 

For more about "Apostle Dr. Blessings Truth Mwakibinga", see his Facebook page.

 

Directions to River of Life Tabernacle, Coffeyville, Kansas:

The church is 3 miles west of Coffeyville off 166, turn left onto CR 3700 across from "Punks Junque" (antiques and collectibles) and head towards Newby Veterinary Clinic. The church will be on your right before you come to the next intersection. For help, call Pastor Brooks at 620-870-9261. 

 

Warning: If you Google the church, it will take you to the WRONG ADDRESS. Instead, use the following map to help guide you, and feel free to call or text Pastor Joe!

 

 

 

Church Outpouring Gaining Momentum and Miracles

 

Now for six consecutive months, Coffeyville churches unite for the Outpouring of the Holy Spirit Revival. Pastor Randy DePriest says the momentum is increasing and he invites you from wherever you are to witness the miracles of God. Click to hear about it!
 

Pastor DePriest is excited to host the event at First Assembly of God, 1504 W. 8th St. and this time they have a world-renowned speaker, John Davis, who's been evangelizing with miracles of healing for over 30 years - and is known by many from the Bartlesville community. Doors open at 5:30, starts at 6:00pm – both Sunday and Monday evenings, July 7th and 8th.

 

For more about John Davis and his ministry, check out his website.

 

Funding Up for Kansas Arts Organizations

 

Funding for the arts in Kansas is improving after a rough decade. As of July 1, the start of a new fiscal year, state funding for the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission increased to $500,000, which is a difference of $310,000 from the $190,000 received over the last few years. It actually marks the highest state appropriation since 2013.

 

In 2011, Kansas became the first state without an arts agency when former Gov. Sam Brownback vetoed funding for the state because he wanted private dollars instead of taxpayer money to fund the arts. This led to the loss of more than $1 million in matching regional and federal arts grants.

 

Through a federal-state partnership, 40% of National Endowment for the Arts funding goes to state or regional arts agencies and organizations, but it requires a minimum of $400,000 in state arts funding before providing matching grants to the states. The state commission's total budget is now approximately $1.6 million.

 

Governor Laura Kelly said funding the arts leads to resounding benefits for the economy and community.

 

(Photo courtesy of InterUrban Art House)

 

 

InterUrban Art House received a $15,000 grant for murals in downtown Overland Park from the Kansas Creative Arts Industries Commission.

Chautauqua County Flash Flood Alert

 

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Chautauqua County in southeastern Kansas until 10:30 this morning (July 3). At 7:33am, trained weather spotters reported flash flooding near Chautauqua.

 

Up to five inches of rain have already fallen and an additional one to two inches of rain is possible over the next hour or so. Flash flooding is already occurring across parts of the area. Where flooding is not occurring yet, it may soon as additional rainfall moves over the area.

 

Some locations that will experience flooding include Sedan, Cedar Vale, Peru, Chautauqua, Elgin, and Niotaze.

Osage County Flash Flood Alert

 

The National Weather Service has issued a flash flood warning for Northeastern Osage County in northeastern Oklahoma until 11:15 this morning. Earlier in the 7:00 hour, Doppler radar indicated thunderstorms producing heavy rain across the area.

 

Two to four inches of rain have fallen and flash flooding is expected. Some locations that may experience flooding include Elgin, Bigheart, Hulah, and Wah Sha She State Park.

 

Additional rainfall amounts of one to two inches are possible for Northeastern Osage County.

CRC Accepting Registration for CCC Soccer Camp

 

The Coffeyville Recreation Commission is now accepting registration for its soccer camp, held jointly with Coffeyville Community College. The camp is open to kids from 4 years old to 8th grade and will be held from July 29 to July 31. CCC soccer coach Jerrid Schicke and the Red Raven soccer team will help kids develop fundamentals and improve skills.

 

The camp will start about 8:30 and run to 11:30 a.m. each day. To register, visit the CRC's website here or visit their office at 508 Park Street in Coffeyville.

Lunch and Learn: Recognizing Elder Depression and Anxiety

 

 

If you know an elder or senior citizen with depression or anxiety, it could be a symptom of abuse, and it does not have to be physical abuse, for elder abuse includes neglect and financial exploitation.

 

The Director of Assisted Living at Windsor Place, Sonia Larimore, tells us about a Lunch and Learn happening next week hosted by the Southeast Kansas Senior Safety and Wellness Coalition.

 

The speaker will be Amanda Redlinger (RN, BSN), Director of Behavioral Health for AngMar Medical Holdings, Inc. out of Iowa. It's next Wednesday, July 10th from 11:30 to 1:00pm at The Yoke Bar and Grill, 128 W. 9th St. in Coffeyville, and is sponsored by Angels Care Home Health.

 

The cost is only $5 per person. The deadline to RSVP is Monday, July 8th, so reserve your seat by calling Kathy Shepard: 620-332-1954.

Fired and Fighting: Pawhuska Chief of Police Silva

 

Pawhuska Chief of Police Nick Silva was fired by City Manager Larry Eulert. Eulert, who along with Assistant City Manager Rex Wickle, entered Chieif Silva's office Friday morning to inform him they did not care for the way he had been performing his job. Chief Silva shares what's happened (click to hear him on the airwaves).
 

Silva's attorney is talking with the city attorney and told him he has plenty of community support. As City Manager, Eulert is the only person in Pawhuska who has the authority to fire Silva, and Eulert's last day in office was Sunday.

 

No matter what happens, Silva wants the citizens of Pawhuska to know the police department is making a change for the better. Wickle has resigned as Assistant City Manager and Jail Administrator Charlie Cartright is currently filling the role of Police Chief.

 

A special city council meeting is scheduled for 4:00 Wednesday, July 8th at City Hall to discuss the matter.

 

(Photo courtesy of Pawhuska Journal-Capital)

Murder Case Delayed in Osage County

 

A murder case in Osage County was delayed yesterday for the murder of John Adkins.Because the attorney for one of the defendants was unable to show up, the motion hearing has been rescheduled for Monday, Aug. 26th at 1:00pm.

 

Daniel Keene, Maurice Kent, and Toby Bighorse all entered not guilty pleas in April for the death of Adkins that occurred October of last year. Motions were filed by the Defense in April, one of which claims the defendants have Native American blood, and because it happened on Native American land, the defense says the case should be turned over to the United States Attorney’s Office.

 

The four were believed to be traveling in a car north of Pawhuska when an argument broke out, and Adkins was stabbed and killed, his body found 17 days later north of Pawhuska.

Nowata County Commission on 911 Committee

 

Nowata County Commissioners have had a long discussion about E911. Jerome Gnatek with the 911 committee brought a proposal to the board to define the committee as a trust authority, and commissioners are reviewing the lengthy proposal.

 

As a trust authority, the 911 committee would be authorized to conduct business, and could specifically apply for grants. Gnatek also explained it would be difficult for Nowata County to fund its own stand-alone dispatch center.
 

Working with a neighboring county like Rogers, Craig or Washington remains a strong possibility. The county would have a limited budget for this operation but REAP grant funds could be available.

Tobacco-Free Parks Now In Effect

 

Coffeyville's tobacco-free parks policy is in effect as of yesterday the 1st of July, so now all parks are now designated as no tobacco or vape use allowed. This includes Sherwin Williams Park which is technically outside city limits because annexed by the county, so Montgomery County approved a policy making it tobacco-free as well.

 

Soon you will see park signs erected by the public service department that read “Young lungs at play!”. Note that the sign in the photo is an example and may not be the exact sign the city will be posting in the parks.

Volunteers Beautified Park in Coffeyville

 

Pfister Park's children's playground has been beautified. On Saturday, volunteers joined with the City of Coffeyville Parks Advisory Board for Clean-Up Day. New mats were installed under swing sets, tables and benches were sealed, and lots of fresh mulch spread on the grounds.

 

The Lions Club painted the entrance swing at North Park, and the Theta Theta Beta Sigma Phi Sorority planted shrubs and flowers in the former fountain area north of the pool.

 

(Photo courtesy of City of Coffeyville)

Plots Open for 9th Street Fresh Community Garden

 

 

Coffeyville's 9th Street Fresh Community Garden has opened up again to people who would like to plant. Peggy Steele gives us the latest.

 

So if you're interested, be sure pick an empty plot, leave your contact information on a note stuck in the dirt. You can start planting immediately. You may also Facebook message Peggy Olinger Steele Olson by going to here page here.

 

(Photo courtesy of Peggy Steele)

Midland Theater Outdoor Movies and Vaude in the Ville

 

If you missed Friday's (June 28th) outdoor movie by the Midland Theater in Downtown Coffeyville, well, next Friday, July 12th  is another family movie. The President of the Midland Theater Foundation, Haylie Bagwell, tells us about it and two more summer events.

 

Bagwell talks about two more summer events, including the next outdoor movie is July 12th, and that's just next Friday. The movie will be Indiana Jones: Raiders of the Lost Ark. The Coffeyville Municipal Band will perform again about 8:00 before the movie starts which is about 9:00 or when night falls.

 

Haylie encourages you to buy your “Vaude in the Ville” tickets which can be through any board member. They hope to fill the Spencer Rounds Theater this year. Tickets are $25. Call Haylie at 620-313-0391.

 

(Photos by Kim Avery)

 

Rep. Kelly on ROZ at Montgomery County Commission Meeting

 

Montgomery County Commissioners met this morning for their regular weekly meeting, and Rep. Jim Kelly was there to discuss the importance of the county continuing to participate in the Rural Opportunity Zone or ROZ program which creates incentive to bring people from out of state into our county. Rep. Kelly explains (click to hear him on the airwaves).

 

Rep. Kelly said the waiting list decreases as individuals receive a match to help pay their student loans. That match can be received from an employer such as John Deere, and if an employer does not match, the ROZ county, in this case Montgomery County, would provide the match.

 

For details on ROZ, applications and how to apply, go to the  Kansas Department of Commerce website by clicking here.

 

July 1st is Windsor's Big Celebration

 

Windsor Place is having its annual 4th of July Celebration today (July 1) at their 8th street location. They started off the day with Independence Day Jeopardy, and they're outside grilling hamburgers and hot dogs to be topped off with watermelon, but don't miss the dunk tank as the fire department is taking turns getting dunked.

 

New this year is the resident slip and slide - residents will be pulled down the waterslide on the biggest inflatable duck you’ve ever seen. Super soakers and water guns provided for everyone. 

 

Check out their Facebook page for updates and photos!

Firework Stands Open Across Coffeyville

 

July is upon us, and that means for a short time, fireworks are once again legal in Coffeyville! From July 1st through July 4th, and furthermore from 8 a.m. through midnight, fireworks can legally be sold at stands throughout the city and can be fired off within Coffeyville city limits. Each fireworks stand will be inspected by the Coffeyville Fire Department to ensure safety.

 

Caution is advised, as there are several places where fireworks may not be used. In addition, bottle rockets or skyrockets cannot be sold or shot in Coffeyville.

 

For more information about selling and discharging fireworks this week, click here.

2019 Cherryvale Youth Fair

 

 

It’s about Fair Season! As 4H Fairs quickly approach, the Cherryvale Youth Fair somewhat kicks off the season next week. The Fair is unique as it is open to anyone, even kids not involved  in 4H programs. Sharon Blaes with the Youth Fair gave our listeners all the details. The Fair is open to any child ages 3 through 18 and again they don't need to be involved in any 4H program. The event takes place next week Wednesday July 10th through Saturday the 13th at Logan Park in Cherryvale. 

 

Jackie Chandler with the fair explained it is a free event and will feature something everyday as there will be different exhibits from kids in all different age groups, as well as livestock showings and an Exhibitor Bake Auction.on Thursday of the event. The auction will have kids showing off their baked goods and will have all proceeds directly benefit the great event.

 

Though livestock entries were due today (Monday, July 1st) though they encourage you to stay up to date with all information on the Cherryvale Youth Fair Facebook Page.

 

Independence Planning Commission Meeting Tomorrow

 

The Independence Planning Commission will meet tomorrow to reconsider text amendements recommended a couple months ago. The amendments were recommended at the May 7th meeting of the commission and relate to zoning. At the June 13th meeting, concerns were raised that the amendments did not meet other sections of the city code that require a recommendation to contain a statement regarding the nature or and effect of the change.

 

The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. at the Veterans Room in Memorial Hall. The agenda, and more details regarding the discussions at hand, can be found here.

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