Another Summer Celebration is in the books, marking 10 years of the event at Walter Jonson Park in Coffeyville.

Organizer Brady Smith says the total count came in at 32 food vendors and 90 merchandise records, which be believes is a new record.

The day started out with a 5K that was won by Bennett Thompson, who says it was well attended.

Curtis Foster says the car show saw good attendance at around 100 total cars, trucks and bikes.  Curtis announces the winner of the Best of Show.

Denise York and Debbie Carter organized the kiddie car show and say over 20 children participated.  All entrants also earned awards and "gas money," although the top prizes were also announced.

A cornhole tournament organized by South Coffeyville residents also drew in 16 teams.  A Blackstone grill was also given away to a ticket holder present during the band concert.

Organizer Gail smith says he was happy with how the day turned out.

The event wrapped up with a large fireworks display that took a crew of 11 a total of four days to set up according to Smith.  While the event is always free to attend, it was made possible by the generous support of local businesses and organizations.

Update 8:20 p.m.

Thunderstorms are developing in northeast Oklahoma, but according to the latest from the National Weather Service, Coffeyville is expected to stay dry for Summer Celebration.

While storms remain possible, the expection is for the majority of storm coverage to greatly decrease by 10 pm.  KGGF will continue to monitor the situation during the evening.

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

Severe thunderstorms are possible across the KGGF listening area this evening, mainly for northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas.

A severe thunderstorm watch is in effect through 10 p.m. for the following counties:

.    OKLAHOMA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

BLAINE               CADDO               CANADIAN
CLEVELAND            CREEK               CUSTER
GARFIELD             GRADY               GRANT
KAY                  KINGFISHER          LINCOLN
LOGAN                MAYES               MCCLAIN
NOBLE                NOWATA              OKFUSKEE
OKLAHOMA             OKMULGEE            OSAGE
PAWNEE               PAYNE               POTTAWATOMIE
ROGERS               SEMINOLE            TULSA
WAGONER              WASHINGTON          WASHITA

Summer celebration is this Saturday, July 11th at Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville.

Below is a schedule of some of the main events. All times are approximate:

7:00 am  - 1K/5K Run/Walk registration
7:30 am  - race starts
8:00 am  - car show registration opens
8:00 am  - kiddie car show registration opens (Ron Stevenson Building)
11:00 am - corn hole registration
12:30 pm - uncle sam at Ron Stevenson Building
1:00 pm  - cornhole tournament starts
1:30 pm  - kiddie car show
2:00 pm  - car show awards
3-4 pm   - poker run starts (after car show awards)
5-6 pm   - Backroads Band and Retro Rockerz start
9:45 pm  - largest fireworks show in SEK! (music broadcast on US 98.1 FM)

Other all-day events: daytime DJ, water slides, food/merch vendors, swap meet

For LIVE coverage, tune to The Mighty 690 during Open Line from 9-11 and through the day, then tune to US 98.1 from 6-8 p.m. and around 9:45 for the official fireworks soundtrack!

The Montgomery County Republican Party and the Republican Women of Montgomery County are hosting a Republican Candidate Forum next weekend.

Kansas State Senator Virgil Peck says they will have candidates from the state wide races including governor.  Peck says there will also be candidates there from local races.

Peck says he encourages all registered republicans to attend and get a chance to hear from the candidates. The forum is Saturday, July 18^th from 10:00am to 12:00pm at the Civic Center located at 410 North Penn Avenue in Independence. The event is free to attend.

Three Parsons High School students are bringing home a national title.

Parsons FCCLA Students Sadie Ray, Cadence Manners and Lauren Forbes took first place in the nation in the FCCLA Repurpose Redesign Level 3 competition.  School officials say the team represented Parsons High School, Kansas, and the community on the national stage, earning the championship through their creativity and hard work.

The community is invited to help welcome the national champions home. If flights remain on schedule, a police escort will bring the team back to Parsons this evening. Residents are encouraged to gather at Parsons High School by 8:30pm or line up along 32^nd Street leading to the school to cheer on the champions as they arrive home.

The City of Coffeyville provides an update on the 8^th Street project.

Deputy Director of Public Works Thomas Osborn says the project is on time to finish in September.  Osborn says the current 8^th Street pavement project is out to bid.

The City began the project at the end of March.

Hot weather can be dangerous for rabbits and chickens during county fair season. Wildcat Extension Agent Adaven Rohling reminds exhibitors to take steps to prevent heat stress.

Make sure your animals always have fresh, cool water and keep cages in a shaded, well-ventilated area. Frozen water bottles or cooling tiles can help keep rabbits cool, and fans can improve airflow around both rabbits and poultry.

Do not overcrowd cages, and watch for signs of heat stress. Chickens may pant or hold their wings away from their bodies. Rabbits may lie stretched out, become sluggish, or stop eating.

Taking these simple steps will help keep your animals healthy, comfortable, and ready for the show ring.

Wilson County Rural Fire and the Neodesha Fire Department responds to several small fires.

The fires were all reported on the roadside along US-400 between Neodesha and Fredonia on Thursday. The fires were all quickly extinguished with no damage or injuries reported.

Firefighters remind residents and drivers alike that the recent hot weather has allowed brush and grasses to dry along roadways making spot fires more likely. Drivers are asked to make sure vehicle are not dragging chains or tie straps that might spark a fire and that all motorists avoid throwing lit cigarettes out of windows.

Elk County Rural Fire receives a donation of drinking water from Anheuser-Busch.

Earlier this week, the company presented the Rural Fire Department with a pallet of canned water. The total donation consisted of more than 2,000 cans of drinking water and was made possible through the National Volunteer Fire Council and Demo Distributors.

Each year, Anheuser-Busch pauses beer production to produce emergency drinking water, and in partnership with National Volunteer Fire Council, ensures volunteer firefighters have the critical hydration they need during extreme heat.

Elk County Rural Fire was one of the roughly 600 departments nationally to receive this donation to help keep firefighters hydrated during wildfires and extended responses.

Pictured L to R: Travis Tennyson, Demo Director of Sales; Capt. Nick Miller; Chief Todd Winscher and Brad Demo, Demo Sales. Courtesy Elk County Rural FIre

The Quapaw Nation Marshal Service will conduct a D-U-I checkpoint near Picher on Saturday, July 18^th.

The checkpoint will be conducted by Quapaw Nation deputies along with officers from the Miami Nation Police Department on US-69, just south of East 20^th Road in Picher. Officers will be looking for impaired drivers while encouraging safe driving habits.

Law enforcement encourages all drivers to make responsible choices by avoiding alcohol and wearing a seat belt. Drivers should also ensure they have have their driver's license, vehicle registration, and current insurance while following all traffic laws.

The Independence Mid-Continent Band has plans to entertain the youngest music lovers at next week's concert.

On Tuesday night, the community band will hold a children's concert at Riverside Park. The concert will feature music from the Disney movie Frozen along with other childhood favorites. The music will feature songs popular with the young and the young at heart. There will also be popsicles and face painting. The concert and activities are free to enjoy.

The Mid-Continent Band's Children Concert will happen on Tuesday night at 8pm at the Hille Band Shell at Riverside Park in Independence.

The City of Independence continues to make dangerous and unsafe properties a priority.

That was the word at last night's Independence City Commission meeting. Assistant City Manager David Cowan says the City's Code enforcement staff continues to address the issue.
 

At last night's meeting, commissioners voted to set a date for Public Hearings on twelve properties across the City. The plan is to continue to prioritize nuisance abatement, environmental code enforcement, and the removal of dangerous and unsafe structures to advance neighborhood revitalization and to protect public health and safety. Director of the Independence Housing Authority April Nutt also addressed the Commission about housing needs. She says new home construction in Independence is progressing.
 

Like many communities in southeast Kansas, Independence has seen a need to increase housing availability. City officials say a continued focus on new home construction and the revitalization of existing houses will help address that need.

The 10^th Annual Coffeyville Summer Celebration is tomorrow and there is some rain in the forecast.

Organizer Gail Smith says they aren't worried about a little rain.  There is about a 70% chance of rain for tomorrow.

Events include a 5K, car show, poker run, cornhole tournament, kiddie car parade and the fireworks show to cap off the event plus vendors setup in the park.

Some Coffeyville residents will be without power for several hours tomorrow as city crews replace a damaged utility pole.

Coffeyville Municipal Light and Power says the planned outage will begin around 8:00am and is expected to last until about 2:00pm. The work will take place in the alley between the 700 blocks of West 9^th Street and West 10^th Street. The utility pole was damaged in a vehicle accident and must be replaced to return the electric system to its normal configuration.

Electric service in the affected area will be temporarily interrupted while crews replace the pole and related equipment. City officials say the planned outage is necessary so crews can safely complete the repairs and help maintain the long-term reliability of Coffeyville's electric system.

Crawford County firefighters respond to a structure fire southwest of Pittsburg.

Yesterday at around 5:00pm, crews arrived to find heavy smoke and flames coming from the rear of the home. Crawford County Sheriff's deputies reached the scene first and confirmed no one was inside the structure. Firefighters also located a dog that was initially believed to be trapped inside.

Fire District 1 received assistance from Crawford County Fire Districts 2 and 3, the Pittsburg Fire Department, Crawford County EMS and the Crawford County Sheriff's Office. CCFD says the hot and humid conditions took a toll on crews, with one firefighter treated at the scene for heat-related stress. Firefighters remained on scene for about two hours.

Parsons Police arrest a man after reports of a disturbance involving a possible handgun at Oakwood Cemetery.

Officers responded to the cemetery after landscaping employees reported a shirtless man had threatened workers with what they believed was a handgun. Police say one employee fled the area while another stayed behind and notified supervisors. Officers located the suspect, identified as Mackenzie Cory Eugene Gamblian, still on the cemetery grounds. Police say Gamblian initially refused commands, tried to walk away, and resisted officers before being taken into custody after a brief struggle.

Investigators later determined the weapon was a realistic-looking replica pistol with an orange safety tip. Police say Gamblian continued to resist and attempted to escape after being handcuffed. Gamblian was booked into the Labette County Jail on requested charges of aggravated assault, interference with law enforcement and aggravated escape from custody. According to the Kansas Department of Corrections, he completed his state supervision in April.

The 2026 Cherryvale Youth Fair is underway at Logan Park in Cherryvale. Students can participate in events ranging from baking, photography, showing livestock and so much more. Exhibitor Hadley Fields says this fair is a great first time fair.

Organizer Hannah Graybill, who has gone from fair participant to fair worker, says it's been great to see the generations of exhibitors come through the fair over the years.  Graybill says for anyone curious about the Cherryvale Youth Fair, 4H or FFA to just give something a try at the fair.

The auction of youth exhibitor baked goods is tonight at 7:00pm. The silent auction for the adult bakeoff items is from 2:00pm to 8:00pm tomorrow. The livestock shows start at 6:00pm tomorrow night starting with the bucket calf show. A full list of events can be found on the Cherryvale Youth Fair Facebook page.

An Arkansas City man is in custody after police say he attemepted to strangle his own mother.

Ark City Police arrested 42-year-old Kody Wayne Nuss early Monday morning (July 6) after receiving a 9-1-1 call from his 61-year-old mother. Reports indicate the victim fled from her home where the alleged assault occurred to a neighbor's home, where she then contacted police. An investigation revealed that the woman's glasses were broken and her cellphone, medication, and vehicle were taken. The suspect had fled the scene by the time officers arrived.

Nuss was later taken into custody after witnesses reported a stolen vehicle driving erratically. Police say the suspect resisted arrest and attempted to grab an officer's weapon while he was in handcuffs.

Nuss was taken to the Cowley County Jail in Winfield where he faces charges of aggravated domestic battery, aggravated robbery, aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, interference with law enforcement, theft, criminal damage to property, possession of a depressant, and driving under the influence. His bond has been set at $52,000.

The State of Oklahoma is preparing for the November 3^rd general election by allowing the political parties to draw for ballot position.

A public drawing was heldon Wednesday, July 8, to determine the ballot order for political parties and independent candidates for the November ballot. The Republican Party drew to top slot followed by the Democratic Party and the Libertarian Party. Recognized political party candidates appear on the ballot in lot order. Independent candidates are placed on the ballot in lot order following the candidates of recognized political parties.

Wednesday's drawing was held in accordance with Oklahoma law at the State Capitol Building in Oklahoma City.

To learn more about the upcoming election in Oklahoma, follow this link.

Two local communities are awarded Public Health and Wellness Partners grant from the Cherokee Nation.

Principal Chief Chuck Hoskin Jr. and Deputy Chief Bryan Warner announced the $1.87 million dollars in funding yesterday (on Wednesday, July 8,) to more than 30 awardees across the the Cherokee Nation Reservation. Among the recipients are the Coffeyville Fire Department, which will receive just over $44,000 to replace a self-contained breathing apparatus and to install an on-site fill station at the Fire Department. The South Coffeyville Schools were also awarded $55,000 to expand a community courtyard.

The grant program is funded under the tribe's Public Health and Wellness Fund Act, legislation proposed by Chief Hoskin and Deputy Chief Warner and enacted by the Council in 2021. 

To see a full list of grant recipients and projects, follow this link.

A Parsons woman suffers serious injuries following a dirt bike accident near Columbus.

According to the Kansas Highway Patrol, around 9:15 last night (Wednesday night) 38-year-old Lacey Harrington was riding a dirt bike along Northwest Coalfield Road, west of K7 or about six miles north of Columbus. At some point, Harrington lost control of the bike and was ejected. Harrington was not wearing a helmet when the accident occurred. She was taken to Mercy Hospital in Joplin for treatment.

The Altamont City Council will meet tonight with several items of new business to come before the group.

On tonight's agenda will be a review of the City's burn policy along with a discussion on City storm procedures. Council members will also consider a proposal for software for the municipal court as well as ordinance violations for a property on South Wabash avenue.

Tonight's meeting begins at 7pm at the Altamont City Hall. The public is invited to attend in person or to view the meeting online via the City of Altamont Facebook page.

The Independence City Commission will meet tonight and hear updates on City goals.

City Manager Kelly Passaeur will give her report to the commission on the goals of the City administration for the coming year. April Nutt with the Independence Housing Authority will also appear to provide advice on housing goals for the City.

Commissioners will also hear presentations from Live Healthy Montgomery County regarding the use of opioid funding and from the Independence Chamber regarding recent events held in the City. There will also be the consideration of dates for public hearings for twelve properties deemed dangerous and unsafe.

Tonight's meeting of the Independence City Commission begins at 5:30 in the Commission Room at City Hall. The meeting is open to the public and can also be viewed online via the City's website.

KGGF/KUSN/KQQF will once again provide the soundtrack for this year's summer celebration.

The 10^th annual event happens this Saturday at Walter Johnson Park in Coffeyville with a full day of vendors and activities culminating in the area's largest fireworks show after dark.

During the evening leading up to live bands and the fireworks, KGGF staff will broadcast live US 98 between 6 and 8 p.m.

This year, the soundtrack for the fireworks will again be heard beyond the range of the speakers near the stage as the music will also be carried live on US 98, which will start shortly before the fireworks are set off. So don't forget to tune in to 98.1 FM in your car, or bring a radio with you to listen in the park while the fireworks light up the sky.

The Caney City Council votes to raise the ceiling mill levy for 2027 by 10.

Caney City Clerk Adam Lanter says the original mill levy for 2027 was 53.084.  Mayor Josh Elliot and Council Members Elizabeth Burch and Jeff Culver discuss that just because the ceiling was raised to 10 doesn't mean the mill levy will be raised by 10.

Mayor Elliot encouraged residents to attend budget work sessions. A budget hearing was set for September 7^th.

A boil water advisory is issued for parts of the Wilson County Rural Water Districts.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment has issued a boil water advisory for portions of Wilson County Rural Water Districts 10 and 11 following a waterline break. The advisory affects customers of Rural Water District 10 who live along Highway 75 north of 1800 Road and customers of Rural Water District 11 who live along Highway 75 north of the city of Buffalo. Residents should boil water for at least one minute before drinking or preparing food, or use bottled water instead. Customers should also discard ice made with tap water, avoid using automatic ice makers, and flush water lines if the water appears dirty.

The advisory was issued after a loss of water pressure in the distribution system, which can reduce chlorine levels and increase the risk of bacterial contamination. The advisory will remain in place until testing confirms the water is safe to use again.

The Coffeyville Public Library is at the halfway mark of their 6,000 book goal for the summer reading program.

Library Director Rachel Koszalka says they were less than 100 books shy of 3,000 for the month of June.  Koszalka says every book read counts, even children's books read multiple times.

Koszalka says for every book a teen or adult reads, they will get an entry into the summer reading grand prize, which is a Garmin health monitor.

The Community Crisis Team of Independence is looking for people to sponsor families for their Christmas in July Adopt-a-Family.

Independence Chamber of Commerce President Lisa Wilson says there are two ways to help.  Wilson says this event supports the youth of Independence by getting them ready to go back to school with a new outfit and a pair of shoes.

The Coffeyville Fire Department is still looking for volunteers needing community service hours to help with fire hydrant painting. Chamber of Commerce President Candi Westbrook says there are over 600 fire hydrants in Coffeyville.

Transportation is not required, it is recommended. Anyone interested in participating, or those who know someone in need of community service hours, can contact CFD by calling (620)252-6148.

Authorities in Ellis County are investigating a string of suspicious fire that have occurred over the past several weeks.

The latest incident occurred in the City of Russell on Saturday night. The Russell Fire Department was dispatched to a local park for a report of a trash can fire. When firefighters arrived on the scene, they discovered that the object on fire was not a trash can, but was instead a portable restroom that had been placed near the City baseball fields for the recreational season. When crews attempted to extinguish the blaze, it reacted violently with water, indicating that an accelerant was likely used.

Fire officials say this latest fire fourth such fire reported and is likely part of a pattern of portable restrooms being set ablaze over the past several weeks.

Authorities continue to investigate the fires.

Photo courtesy Russell Fire Department

An Independence woman suffers serious injuries in a single vehicle car crash near McCune.

20-year-old Mazie Schultheiss was driving a 2011 Toyota Camry eastbound on 510 Avenue about 4 miles east of the City of McCune around 10pm on Tuesday. Schultheiss failed to negotiate the T intersection with South 90^th Street and struck a ditch embankment. She was transported to Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg to be treated for her injuries.

Schultheiss was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

A 73-year-old woman is seriously injured in a Tuesday afternoon crash in Yates Center.

Katherine Warren was a passenger in a vehicle driven by 20-year-old Cavan Warren that was involved in a two-vehicle accident that occurred at the intersection of East Bell and North Main Street just before 2pm on Tuesday. The accident occurred when the Warren vehicle was struck while it was going through the intersection by a 2011 Chevy Silverado driven by a 14-year-old driver.

No one else was hurt in the accident.

The Neodesha City Commission will meet today and entertain a light agenda.

At today's meeting, commissioners will consider a resolution to add an individual to the City's bank authorizations. This measure will ensure that the City's financial institutions have the appropriate documentation and authorized personnel on file to process transactions. Representatives from Wichita State University will also be on hand to present certificates to three City employees for recently completing the Mini-MPA program.

Commissioners are also expected to set a date and time for a work session to begin finalizing the 2027 budget.

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

Three people are injured, two seriously, in an accident just south of Fort Scott.

On Tuesday afternoon, July 7, just before 5pm, 18-year-old Mackinzie Larrabee was driving a 2013 Ford Fusion eastbound on Indian Road. Larrabee failed to yield at a stop sign at the intersection of US-69. Her vehicle was struck on the driver's side by a semi truck driven by 57-year-old Charles Shupp of Purcell, Missouri. Larrabee and a passenger in her vehicle 19-year-old Genuine Juarez Adams were both seriously injured and taken to Joplin's Freeman Hospital for treatment. The driver of the semi also suffered minor injuries in the accident.

The Kansas Highway Patrol releases its Fourth of July Holiday Activity Report.

 The Kansas Highway Patrol worked five non-DUI related fatal crashes which resulted in a total of five fatalities. The fatal crashes occurred in Allen, Russell, Shawnee, and Pratt counties. KHP trooper also issued 752 speeding citations and assisted 614 motorists.

The reporting period for the holiday ran from 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, July 2, 2026, through 11:59 p.m. on Sunday, July 5, 2026.

 There were 27 DUI arrests over the reporting period, up from 25 in 2025, and up from 16 in 2024.

To read the full report, follow this link.

The Wilson County Commission will meet today for their regular weekly meeting.

Commissioners will hear updates from County Coordinator Kris Marple and County Clerk Kayla Busch. Road & Bridge Supervisor Kary Tatum will also provide his weekly report. Commissioners will also discuss details of a county zoning case. Today's meeting begins at 9am in Room 101 of the Wilson County Courthouse in Fredonia. The meeting is open to the public.

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

The total tax receipts for June 2026 came in at $1.07 billion. That number is about 3.2% or nearly $34 million above estimates. Receipts were also 1% higher than June 2025. Both individual income and corporate taxes rose in June, driving the higher-than-projected numbers. Individual taxes were $490 million or 5.4% above expectations while corporate taxes also increased. Those receipts were $185 million or 4% above estimates. However, those numbers were 11% lower than a year ago.

The full report can be seen at this link.

The Cherryvale Youth Fair continues today with entry check-ins.

Campers are now allowed in the park, and rabbit and poultry are being checked in this morning. Inside exhibit entry will also take place tonight from 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Eighth-grader Cheroke Whinery is planning to enter in fiber arts, visual arts, forestry and baking. She says she enjoys the new experiences at the fair.

Fourth-grader Adam Hagood is planning to enter inside exhibits as well.

There will be an exhibitor cookout meal tonight from 7 to 8 sponsored by Montgomery County Farm Bureau, with livestock entry tomorrow plus a live remote on US 98 from 10 to noon. All events take place at Logan Park in Cherryvale.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center is hosting a open house for their new Primary Care Clinic.

Director of Foundation and Guest Relations Amy Taylor says the event is tomorrow from 4:00pm to 6:00pm.  Taylor says she encourages those who attend the event or who visit the care clinic to take a look at all the photography on the walls.

The new Primary Care Clinic is located at 1400 West 4^th Street across the street from CRMC.

The Osage County Commission discuss data center.

The main topic of discussion was the commission approving Assessor Ed Quinton putting his signature on the Project Spring data center tax incentive agreement. This is something Quinton didn't want the commissioners to do. He says by signing this, the county would be losing out on tax dollars.

Quinton says the people in charge of Project Spring don't need help with the county at the moment, but that could potentially change. District Two Commissioner Steve Talburt says there is due to an ongoing lawsuit because the area the potential project sits on is being disputed if it really belongs to the City of Sand Springs.

Quinton says the data center is able to skirt by without having to pay a tax bill.  Talburt says he is strongly against having anything to do with the tax incentive project.  The commissioners decided against having Quinton's signature on the Project Spring data center tax incentive agreement.

The Nowata County Commission asses storm damage following the 4^th of July weekend storms.

Nowata County is currently in a declared emergency following flooding and additional severe weather last month. Emergency Management Director Laurie Summers says she will get information on if Saturday's storms will be part of the current emergency timeline.

The threshold of damage costs the county must meet to receive additional funding is $45,294. The commissioners also approved a damage statement for district one for federal emergency relief with the Oklahoma Department of Transportation.

The Montgomery County Young Professionals are hosting a pickleball meet up this Sunday in Coffeyville. Tourism Director Wyatt Starnes says this is open to anyone in the county.

This event was originally scheduled in June but was rained out and rescheduled to this Sunday at 7:00pm at the Clarence Stricklan Courts. The group encourages those who are planning to come to bring their own pickleball gear but some extras will be available.

Coffeyville's Reawakening and Carter Auto Parts are partnering together to host the Kiddie Car Parade for the second straight year. Carter Auto Parts Mikaela Trim says this year's theme is red, white and blue.

Power wheels can be dropped off at the Ron Stevenson Building on Saturday morning and that is also were the parade will start. After the parade a best decorated power wheel will be chosen.

A Parsons man is arrested after an investigation into a stolen package.

Parsons Police officers responded yesterday morning to a reported package theft in the 300 block of North Central Avenue. The victim provided home security video, and the investigating officer identified the suspect as Shane Kloog based on previous law enforcement contacts. Police spent the day searching for Kloog before the victim reported seeing him back in the neighborhood around 4:50pm yesterday afternoon. Officers responded and took Kloog into custody after police say he initially refused commands to stop. Kloog was arrested on requested charges of theft and interference with law enforcement. PPD says he is currently serving a term of probation through Labette County District Court.

This morning, a citizen reported finding a bicycle and a package in a yard. Officers determined the package belonged to the victim and returned it. The bicycle was taken to the police department impound, and anyone missing a bicycle is encouraged to contact the department's evidence custodian.  The investigation remains ongoing.

The Kansas wheat harvest is nearly complete. The latest USDA Crop Progress report shows harvest is 91 percent complete, well ahead of last year's 78 percent and the five-year average of 74 percent.

Farmers made good progress over the holiday weekend as hot, dry weather allowed combines to return to the fields after weeks of rain delays.

In southeast Kansas, Beachner Grain President and CEO Gary Beachner says June's wet weather took a toll on the crop.

The Parsons City Commission discusses a purchase option for 20 acres of land for a possible data center.

At Monday's meeting, it was standing room only as Parsons citizens attended to voice their thoughts on the purchase and the proposed data center. The land purchase would be in the Tolan Creek Industrial Park north of the City and would give the Texas-based firm Hyperdatagrid up to a year to study the feasibility of installing a micro data center. Some in attendance spoke in favor of the center.

Others, however, were against the facility.

Others said the people of Parsons should decide.

Members of the Parsons City Commission spoke in favor of the contract.

Commissioner Leland Crooks says the City has historically set the pace for the use of technology.

The data center would possibly bring in as much as $300,000 a year in new revenue. Commissioner Eric Strait says the City government has an obligation to consider the economics of the issue.

A major issue for those concerned about the data center is water usage. Commissioner Verlyn Boulanger says the Parsons Water plant usually runs at less than half capacity.

In the end, commissioners were asked to make a decision on the land purchase contract. Commissioner Eric Strait makes the motion.

The vote gives Hyperdatagrid six months to study utility availability, review land use, and perform survey work.

One man is dead and another seriously injured in a single vehicle crash near Garden City.

19-year-old Adan Gonzalez and 21-year-old Anthony Abete, both of Garden City, were traveling eastbound on Burnside Drive near the intersection with US-83 just south of Garden City around 8:15 last night (on Monday night). Gonzalez was driving the 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse when he crossed the center line. He corrected, but then went left of center again and the vehicle started to slide on the roadway. The vehicle then overturned.

Gonzalez suffered serious injuries and was taken to a nearby hospital. Abete was killed in the crash. Neither man was wearing a seat belt at the time of the accident.

A Marion man is dead after ahead on collision with a semi truck in Harvey County.

49-year-old Gerardo Mendoza was traveling eastbound around 6pm Monday night on US-50 near East Lake Road or about 30 miles north of El Dorado. His 2007 Dodge Ram 1500 crossed the center line for an unknown reason and crossed into the path of an oncoming semi driven by 59-year-old Charles Murphy of Rochester, Minnesota. Murphy attempted an evasive maneuver but was unable to avoid the collision and the two vehicles struck head on.

Mendoza was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The City of Coffeyville is asking residents to make their opinions known by taking part in a community survey.

The City's Community Development Team seeks input on ideas to make the community more convenient for getting around town, whether its biking, walking, or other means of travel. The survey takes about 10 minutes to complete, and input will help guide future improvements throughout Coffeyville.

To take the survey, follow this link.

The City of Neodesha is advising residents to avoid contact with water at the City’s Riverwalk Park due to the presence of blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae can produce toxins that may be harmful to both people and animals. Even brief exposure or ingestion can cause illness, with pets being especially vulnerable. Due to this, the City advises that citizens not enter the water and that pet owners keep their animals from drinking or having contact with the water.

The City is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions change.

Two students from Caney High School are selected to take part in a national conference on Artificial Intelligence Policy.

Samantha Roberts Dildine and Kinlee Littleford, have been selected to represent Kansas at the Student Senate on A-I Policy in Boston later this month. The two will represent USD 436 at America’s Youth A-I Festival as a group of 250 students, educators, school leaders, and partners gather to focus on A-I literacy, civic engagement, student leadership, and the future of learning.

Dildine and Littleford will learn about the legislative process, and take part in a first-of-its-kind debate on national A-I policy for K-12 schools at the Edward M. Kennedy Institute for the United States Senate.

The student-authored policy will be shared with School Superintendent’s Association’s nationwide network of more than 10,000 district leaders, giving our students a real opportunity to influence how A-I is used in classrooms across the country.

Photo: Dildine (l) and Littleford (r). Courtesy USD 436 Caney

The Sedan City Council will meet tonight with several issues of business from the last council meeting on the agenda.

At tonight’s meeting, council members will discuss the audit of the City’s 2025 finances and its impact on the upcoming budget talks for 2027. There will also be a continued discussion regarding the increase of rates for water customers and for solid waste rates. Council members will also hear reports from the City’s department heads.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 5:30 in the Council Room at the Sedan City Hall. The meeting can also be viewed online via the City’s Facebook page.

The Kansas Department of Transportation has begun a resurfacing project on US-75 in Neodesha.

Work on the project is officially underway and will continue until the project is completed. Drivers along US-75 or Main Street in Neodesha can expect temporary lane closures, flaggers and other traffic control devices, as well as minor delays while construction is underway.

KDOT and the City of Neodesha remind drivers to slow down in the work zone and allow extra time for travel throughout the course of the project as state contractors work to make improvements to the state highway.

Students in South Coffeyville will need to change their backpacks for the upcoming school year.

Starting this fall, all students in South Coffeyville schools from Pre-K through 12th grade will be required to use clear backpacks. The district is implementing the change in an effort to increase student safety. Schools implement clear backpack policies primarily to deter students from concealing weapons, drugs, or other unauthorized contraband. By making the contents of bags instantly visible, these policies speed up security checkpoints, aim to create a safer environment, and eliminate ambiguity about what students are carrying. Students and parents are advised that any logos or pictures on the backpack should be smaller than 3 inches, and the backpack needs to be clear all the way around. Personal care items may be carried in a pencil-sized pouch for privacy.

Fall enrollment for South Coffeyville School takes place on August 3^rd and 4^th.

Montgomery County considers the issue of changing the center line on West Oak Street.

At this week’s commission meeting, Independence City Engineer John Garris addressed commissioners on the issue of adjusting the center line on Oak Street west of Independence High School. Earlier this year, the Independence City Commission was told that when school buses were forced to cross the center line due to parking on the south side of the street, the vehicles were violating the law. Garris says this raised several other issues for the City.

The decision was made to move the center line of the street to the north to allow for both two-way traffic and parking. Because the City and Montgomery County jointly own that stretch of Oak Street, the County Commission would need to approve of the measure. Commissioner Robert Bever says he would like to take a closer look at the route before making a final decision.

The commission voted to table the issue until next week before making a decision.

Cherryvale's New police chief is sworn into office.

At Monday's meeting, Nigel Flenar was sworn in by acting City Clerk Karen Davis.

Flenar and his wife moved to the area in 2021 from northwest Indiana. He started his career in 1996 in a Chicago suburb and has been working in Montgomery County with both the Sheriff's Office and Code Enforcement in Caney.

Flenar says there are several items he wants to work on.

Several citizens asked Flenar about the “Talk with the Chief” program, and he says he plans on continuing it.

While Flenar is an Independence resident, the Council decided to waive the three-mile residency requirement with hopes that he will consider moving to Cherryvale.

Setup is underway for this year's Cherryvale Youth Fair.

Last night, volunteers filled Logan Park, setting up the indoor space for exhibits and livestock pens outside, followed by a swim party.

Event organizer Jackie Chandler says there's still time to get involved with the fair for all youth ages 7 to 18.

The Peewee division is also available for youth ages 3 to 7. Chandler says they're expecting more exhibits this year based on pre-entry numbers. In addition, Chandler says everything will be ready for the public starting on Thursday.

Seventh-grader Juliet Thompson is showing rabbits and art and says the hard work pays off.

Sixth-grader Noah Hagood is exhibiting foods, photography, project boards and stained glass. He says he enjoys meeting new people at the fair.

This Thursday, KGGF staff will broadcast live from the fair with a remote on US 98 from 10 to noon. The full event schedule can be seen below:

A proposed property tax increase may be less than expected for Caney Residents.

A packed crowd filled the meeting room at Monday night's Caney City Council Meeting after a discussion to increase the upcoming 2027 budget by 22 mills was apparently placed in error as an action item on the agenda.

A change to the agenda moves the discussion to a workshop following the regular council meeting. During the workshop, Caney Mayor Joshua Elliott says current projections show this year's budget could fall approximately $215,000 short of covering salaries if current trends continue. The projected shortfall prompts a discussion among council members about the factors contributing to the deficit.

Council members agreed that there needs to be a breakdown of all salaries from each department to find out where the discrepancy is coming from. Council members also agreed that a 22 mill increase would not be asked of Caney residents. Instead, an increase of 10 mil will be voted on Wednesday night at 6:30 at the council chambers.

If approved, the increase has to be sent to the county to exceed the revenue-neutral rate. If passed, the city of Caney would not be able to exceed revenue neutral by more than 10 mills.

A mill levy is the property tax rate applied to a property’s assessed value. It is expressed in "mills," where one mill equals $1 in tax for every $1,000 of assessed value.

Kansas farmers continue to make strong progress with this year's crops. The USDA's National Agricultural Statistics Service reports winter wheat harvest is 91 percent complete statewide, well ahead of both last year and the five-year average.

In Southeast Kansas, wheat harvest is 90 percent finished, while corn is further along than much of the state, with 90 percent of the crop now silking and 30 percent reaching the dough stage. Soybeans are also developing on schedule, and most corn, soybean, and sorghum fields are rated in good to excellent condition as adequate soil moisture continues to support crop growth.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will begin repairs today on a bridge located south of Humboldt.

The repair work will cause some minor disruptions to traffic on US-169 as KDOT works to repair both lanes, including the exit and on-ramps to the Delaware Road Bridge, located about a mile southeast of Humboldt. The repairs will be done in two phases, with the first taking place on the westbound lanes and ramps.

Detour signs will route traffic through the work zone. Traffic across the bridge will be reduced to one lane and guided by traffic signals. The speed limit will be reduced to 45 mph in the work zone. Travelers can expect delays of up to 15 minutes.

The project is expected to be completed by December.

The Caney City Council will meet tonight with the topic of dangerous and unsafe structures on the agenda.

At tonight’s meeting, council members will consider resolutions to declare five structures in the City as dangerous and unsafe. There will also be a discussion on the sale of two Land Bank properties located at 1201 and 1207 North Wood. Council members will also vote on changes to an ordinance regarding the duration of stays for tenants at Caney RV Parks.

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

Coffeyville's 10^th annual Summer Celebration is Saturday at Walter Johnson Park.

Organizer Cathy Smith says the event gets started with the 5K and One Mile Fun Run at 7:30am.  Smith says the car show starts at 8:00am with awards at 2:00pm.

Smith says other events include the cornhole tournament, live music and a presentation on the history of Montgomery County. There will also be vendors throughout the park. Smith says the night will end with one of the largest firework shows in the area.

The Parsons City Commission will meet tonight and a major topic of discussion will be a contract for the option to purchase 20 acres of land in the Tolan Creek Industrial Park as a possible site for a micro data center. The Texas-based company HyperDatagrid is proposing to develop the property for the new facility. If approved by the commission, the purchase option agreement would be active for six months, with the option to extend the deal for an additional six months. During that time, a development team would study utility availability, review land use, and perform survey work.

One of the major issues of concern is water usage. The commission is considering two proposals: The first has a very minimum amount of water usage and the second is projecting usage to be 50,000 gallons a day or less as the project grows. 

The Parsons Water Plant currently has three million gallons a day capacity but usually produces much lass than that amount. Peak production occurs during the summer months when usage increases. During that time, the plant still only produces about 1.5 million gallons a day.

City officials say the project would place little additional requirements on city utilities while increasing revenue. Depending on which water use option is considered, the City could see as much as $150,000 annually in additional water sales as well as additional utilities franchise fees also potentially reaching $150,000 annually during peak usage times.

Tonight’s meeting begins at 6pm in the Commission Room located in the Parsons Municipal Building. The public is invited to attend tonight’s meeting to give input on the issue. The meeting can also be viewed online at this link.

Crews from several area fire departments respond to a barn fire southwest of Tyro.

The original call came in just after midnight on Saturday night. Dearing Fire was called to the scene in a rural area about two miles southwest of Tyro. The blaze was contained to the barn. The structure was damaged in the fire along with a vehicle that was stored in the barn. However, no injuries were reported.

Dearing Fire received aid on the call by Tyro Rural Fire, Caney Rural Fire, and Coffeyville Fire.

The Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a missing girl.

16-year-old Makenzie Kepka of Scammon was last seen on Friday night after being spotted at the Casey’s General Store location in Columbus. Kepka disappeared from her home in Scammon around 4pm on Friday.

She is described as a white female, 5’4” with blond hair and blue eyes and weighing about 130 pounds. She was last seen wearing a red tank top, white shorts or skirt, black hat, black hoodie, and black & white shoes.

Anyone with information on Kepka’s whereabouts is asked to contact the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office at 620-429-3992 or call 9-1-1 if you have information on her current location.

Four separate car accidents on Independence Day leave four people dead.

Just after midnight on Saturday morning, four young people were traveling on a gravel road in rural Russell County, about 30 miles north of Great Bend. A passenger in the Ford F-150 21-year-old Aiden Moyer lost his hat out of the truck’s window. The 16-year-old driver pulled to the side of the road to allow Moyer to retrieve his hat. The driver then reversed the vehicle and struck Moyer, who sustained fatal injuries.

Later that morning around 5:15, two semi-trucks collided on US-54. Just west of the City of Cullison. The accident occurred when the semi driven by James Glover Jr., of Wichita, crossed the center line and struck a second big rig driven by 51-year-old Timothy Fox of Cypress, Texas. Glover was not wearing a seat belt and was fatally injured.

A third fatal accident occurred on Saturday morning just before 8am in Shawnee County when a Ford F-150 driven by 36-year-old Zachary Obrock of Topeka crossed the center line on US-24 and collided head-on with a Honda Civic driven by 85-year-old Robert Kidd of Wamego. Obrock was seriously injured and Kidd was killed in the crash.

At around 3:30 on the afternoon of July 4th, motorcyclist 29-year-old Austin Clifton of Pratt was killed when he was rear ended by a pickup truck while traveling on US-54 about 10 miles west of the City of Pratt.

One person is dead and another seriously injured following a single-vehicle car accident near Chanute.

Just before 8am on Friday morning, a 2001 Chevy Tahoe driven by 80-year-old Lorren Green of Chanute was traveling northbound on the 1150th Street ramp onto US-169 about 5 miles north of the City of Chanute. The vehicle left the roadway to the left and then overturned, coming to rest on its top. Green suffered serious injuries and was taken to KU Medical Center for treatment. A passenger in his vehicle 76-year-old Thalia Green sustained fatal injuries in the accident and was pronounced deceased at the scene.

The Montgomery County Commission will hold their regular weekly meeting today and discuss an agreement on a street realignment with the City of Independence.

At today's meeting. Public Works Director Brandon Beurskins will appear before the commission to discuss an agreement with the City of Independence to move the center line on Oak Street between 13^th and 21^st Streets, just west of Independence High School. The change would allow for parking on the south side of the street and was approved by the Independence City Commission at its June 23^rd meeting. The change must also be approved by the County before it can go into effect. Beurskins will also present the results of bidding for paint striping to the commission.

Also on today's agenda will be County Administrator Jonathan Booe who will discuss the review and approval of a payroll company as well as a revised contract for the Comprehensive and Zoning Plan. 

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

A new police chief will be sworn in at tonight's Cherryvale City Council meeting.

On tonight's agenda is the swearing on of new Cherryvale Police Chief Nigel Flenar, who's previous experience includes service with the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office and code enforcement with the City of Caney.

In other business, the council is expected to approve a recent audit invoice for just under $10,000 and set the time and date for a budget workshop.

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

Firefighters respond to a structure fire in Independence.

Early Sunday morning just before 1:30 a.m., Independence Fire-EMS was dispatched to a structure Fire at 412 S. Wald.  Upon arrival, a single story structure with heavy fire involvement of the rear of the structure was found. The structure was unoccupied and vacant.

Cherryvale Fire-EMS and Dearing Fire assisted Independence on this fire. The fire is under investigation by the Independence Police Dept and Fire-EMS.  No injuries were reported.

Photo: Independence Fire-EMS

A line of storms moves through northeast Oklahoma and causes widespread power outages.

According to Public Service Company of Oklahoma, as of 8:30 p.m., around 14,000 customers were reported without power, with the most reporting in Bartlesville and Tulsa.  Already this evening, an 80 mph wind gust was reported in Copan, with several reports of 60 mph wind gusts.  Thunderstorm tree damage was also reported in Lenapah.

For an updated map or to report an outage, click here.

***** Update 4:40 p.m *****

A severe thunderstorm watch has been issued until midnight for the following counties in the KGGF listening area:

.    KANSAS COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

BARBER               CHAUTAUQUA          COWLEY
ELK                  HARPER              LABETTE
MONTGOMERY           NEOSHO              SUMNER
WILSON

.    OKLAHOMA COUNTIES INCLUDED ARE

ADAIR                ALFALFA             BECKHAM
BLAINE               CADDO               CANADIAN
CHEROKEE             CLEVELAND           CRAIG
CREEK                CUSTER              DELAWARE
DEWEY                ELLIS               GARFIELD
GRADY                GRANT               HARPER
HUGHES               KAY                 KINGFISHER
LINCOLN              LOGAN               MAJOR
MAYES                MCCLAIN             MCINTOSH
MUSKOGEE             NOBLE               NOWATA
OKFUSKEE             OKLAHOMA            OKMULGEE
OSAGE                OTTAWA              PAWNEE
PAYNE                POTTAWATOMIE        ROGERS
ROGER MILLS          SEMINOLE            SEQUOYAH
TULSA                WAGONER             WASHINGTON
WASHITA              WOODS               WOODWARD

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

After a round of severe thunderstorms in parts of central and southeast Kansas this morning, another round is possible this afternoon and evening.

Thunderstorms are expected to develop later this afternoon and become more numerous during the evening.  Some of the storms will become severe, capable of large hail, damaging winds and heavy rainfall with possible localized flooding.  A few brief tornadoes are also possible before 11 PM.

The main threat will be along the state line in southern Kansas and northern Oklahoma.  Confidence on storm timing is high, but uncertainty remains on where storms will develop.  Currently, much of southeast Kansas has a 65% chance of storms.  KGGF will provide severe weather coverage this evening if needed.

As the United States marks its 250th anniversary, agriculture continues to be recognized as a foundation of the nation's growth and economy. Retired Smithsonian Institution curator Peter Liebhold says farming has been central to American commerce and enterprise since the country's earliest days.

Liebhold says one of the country's earliest debates centered on whether the United States should remain an agricultural nation or shift toward an industrial economy. While industry expanded over time, agriculture continued to play a critical role by supplying food, supporting trade, and driving economic growth. Today, both agriculture and industry remain essential to the nation's economy, reflecting the balance that developed over more than two centuries.

Residents of Cherryvale gather to celebrate Independence Day and America's 250th.

Last night, Logan Park was the center of activity with free swimming, live music and food vendors.  Cherryvale Mayor Gary Minnich says they moved the celebration back to Logan Park from Lake Tanko based on feedback received from citizens.

Minnich says $10,000 was raised for the fireworks show between money from the Cherryvale Chamber of Commerce, tourism funds from the city and private donations.  Cherryvale Fire/EMS was also on hand last night in addition to members of the Coffeyville Amateur Radio Club, who made contacts using their communications trailer with stations on both the east and west coasts from the park.

Some upcoming Independence Day events in the area include the Independence Fireworks display tonight in Riverside Park with a backup date of Sunday, July 5th at 9:30 in case of rain.  Altoona, Fredonia and Pittsburg, Bartlesville and Miami are among other towns planning large displays.  Neodesha will also celebrate the 4th on Sunday the 5th.  KGGF staff will broadcast live from the Independence and Neodesha events from 6 to 8 on US 98.  Coffeyville will mark the holiday next Saturday on July 11th during Summer Celebration in Walter Johnson Park.

South Coffeyville's newest restaurant and travel center is hosting a celebration for America's 250^th.

TA Express and Golden Chick is hosting the TA Top Rod Car Show and Independence Day celebration tomorrow from 10:00am to 3:00pm. The event will feature classic vehicles, prize drawings, family activities and a live broadcast on KUSN. The car show includes cash awards for the top three entries, with first place receiving $100, second place $75 and third place $50. Visitors can also vote for the People's Choice Award. Winners will be announced at 2:30pm tomorrow afternoon.

Families can enjoy free face painting from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, balloons for kids and prize giveaways throughout the day. Prize drawings include fireworks bundles, coolers, gift cards, T-shirts, hats, koozies, charging docks and other items. The first 150 visitors will also receive a free 16-ounce fountain drink, and every $10 spent inside TA Express or Golden Chick earns an another entry into the prize drawings. The celebration begins with the National Anthem at 10:00am.

Event organizers want to thank the title sponsors for helping make the celebration possible, including L & L Fireworks of South Coffeyville, DC Juntiques of South Coffeyville, Anheuser-Busch, Red Bull, Pepsi, Frito-Lay, Coke and Miller Lite. They also thank the businesses that donated prizes, including Big Dawg Food Truck and Messy Mutts Grooming.

A 12-year-old child in Tulsa loses a hand in a fireworks accident on Wednesday night.

According to Tulsa Police, the child was handling a mortar-style firework when one exploded unexpectedly. The child was taken to an Oklahoma City Hospital after the explosive destroyed most of his hand. The victim also sustained facial injures and an 11-year-old child was also hurt in the accident.

Tulsa Police continue to investigate the incident. They also caution parents that fireworks can be unpredictable, advising that children should be supervised around the explosive devices.

For those planning to travel by car this holiday weekend, Triple-A Kansas says, make sure your car is ready for the trip.

Shawn Steward with Triple-A Kansas says his organization is asked to help many motorists this time of year

Steward says a little prevention before you begin your trip can go a long way.

Triple-A expects more than 61 million people will be traveling by car this weekend, with nearly a half million Kansans hitting the road.

Triple-A reminds all drivers during the holiday weekend to always wear a seat belt and never drive after consuming alcohol.

An Erie man is sentenced to three years in jail for sexual exploitation of a child.

42-year-old Peter Hawkinson was sentenced earlier this week to serve 36 months of community corrections on the charge after he entered a plea of “no contest” in April. Hawkinson agreed to enter the plea to one count of exploitation in exchange for an additional 23 charges to be dropped.

Hawkinson was arrested in July of last year at his home in rural Neosho County. The Neosho County Sheriff's Office along with the Kansas Bureau of Investigation served a search warrant on Hawkinson's residence following a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The charges stemmed from incidents that occurred in March 2025.

Coffeyville Regional Medical Center will host an open house event next week at the facility's new Primary Clinic.

The event will provide community members, donors, partners and friends of CRMC an opportunity to tour the new facility, meet providers and staff, and see how the building is providing access to primary care medicine for families throughout the region. CRMC staff will give guided tours of the facility, where the public can learn more about the type of primary care services available from the CRMC Medical Group.

The new Primary Care Clinic was made possible through a combination of grant funding and generous community donations and the open house will feature a Donor Recognition ceremony at 4pm.

The open house will be held on Thursday, July 9^th, from 4 to 6pm, at the new clinic, located at 1400 West 4th Street, in Coffeyville. The public is invited to attend.

Smoking meat is a popular cooking method during the summer, but proper food safety practices are essential to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. USDA food safety expert Meredith Carothers says raw meat should always be kept separate from cooked food by using different plates, utensils, and cutting boards to prevent cross-contamination.

She also stresses the importance of using a food thermometer to verify that meat has reached a safe internal temperature before serving. Following these simple steps can help ensure smoked meats are both safe and enjoyable.

The summer is nearly halfway over and that means it's time to start thinking about back-to-school time.

USD 445-Coffeyville announces that online registration for the 2026-2027 school year will open on July 15^th. Returning families will need the username and password that they used last year to register their child. Those who are new to Coffeyville schools this year will need to contact the district to set up their account.

For registration username and password, send an email to campus@cvilleschools.com

Click here for a step-bystep how-to video guide

Follow this link for forms and other registration information.

Independence Day festivities get underway tonight in Cherryvale.

The Fireworks 250^th Celebration takes place at Logan Park. There will be food trucks open from 5 to 9 and live music from the classic rock/country music band Cross Eyed Lilly. Attendees can also enjoy a free swim at the Cherryvale City Pool between 6 and 9pm. The Coffeyville Amateur Radio Club will be broadcasting from 4 to 6.

Fireworks will begin at dark. It all happens tonight in Cherryvale.

The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks opens the application period for Kansas Special Hunts.

Special Hunts are limited-entry, application-only opportunities that allow hunters to access areas not normally open to unrestricted hunting such as state parks, wildlife areas, and wildlife refuges. Participation is limited, so these hunts offer a unique hunting experience at different locations across Kansas.

Applications are now open for Fall 2026 and Winter 2027. Interested hunters must apply by July 31^st and the drawing will be held in August. Special Hunts provide access only. All licenses, permits, tags, stamps, and Hunter Education are still required. Resident-only hunts requires all hunters to be Kansas residents. Non resident deer hunters must have drawn a deer permit for the Deer Management Unit where the hunt is located in the April lottery to be eligible. 

For more information or to apply, folllow this link.

One man is dead following a single-vehicle accident southwest of the City of La Cygne.

41-year-old Edward Schultz of Centerville was killed yesterday (on Thursday) in a crash that occurred just after midnight on a rural road in Linn County. Schultz was driving a 2012 Hyundai Electra when the vehicle left the roadway for an unknown reason and struck an embankment. This caused the vehicle to overturn and come to rest on its top.

Schultz was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.

The Coffeyville Police Department is reminding residents to be careful with fireworks as we head into the July 4^th weekend.

Coffeyville Police Officer Mike Burroughs says it's especially important to supervise children around fireworks.

Already this year, a 12-year-old child in Tulsa lost most of his hand in an accident involving a mortar shell.

Coffeyville Police Chief Kwin Bromley says it's also important to clean up.

Fireworks can only be discharged on private property between the hours of 8 and midnight through the fourth.

A Parsons man is back in custody after the Parsons Police Department says he was caught with stolen property following a vehicle burglary.

PPD says officers were called just before 12:45pm today to the 1200 block of Grand Avenue after a citizen reported seeing a man inside a vehicle removing items. Officers, detectives and a Labette County Sheriff's deputy responded and quickly located the suspect nearby. Police identified the suspect as 50-year-old Kevin Bellamy. Officers say Bellamy was found in possession of property stolen from the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident.

Bellamy was booked into the Labette County Jail on charges of burglary and theft. According to court bond documents, Bellamy had been released from custody on Monday following a February arrest on charges of criminal possession of a weapon by a felon, interference with law enforcement and possession of a controlled substance. Police say he was out on bond at the time of today's arrest.

A Cherryvale man is arrested following a two day search by the Montgomery County Sheriff's Office.

Tuesday at around 10:00pm, a Montgomery County Sheriff's deputy attempted to stop Jeremiah McKenzie in Dearing while he was driving an ATV that had been reported stolen in Cherryvale. The Sheriff's Office says McKenzie refused to stop and fled, with deputies eventually losing sight of him. Another deputy spotted McKenzie north of Tyro operating the same ATV. Deputies say he again fled, drove onto private property, abandoned the ATV and ran into a nearby cornfield and wooded area. Deputies, assisted by a Kansas Highway Patrol drone, searched for several hours before suspending the search.  The search resumed yesterday morning after deputies received information that McKenzie had been spotted southwest of Independence. While responding, deputies also learned he may have stolen a side-by-side utility vehicle from a nearby residence. Deputies located McKenzie at another residence in the area and took him into custody without incident. Investigators later determined the side-by-side had been stolen from a nearby property.

McKenzie was booked into the Montgomery County Department of Corrections on charges including two counts of felony fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, burglary, two counts of felony theft, three counts of possession of stolen property, driving while suspended, and multiple traffic violations.

The time around the 4^th of July can be a stressful time for pets.

Coffeyville Friends of Animals Becky Barnhart says the best thing a pet owner can do is to keep their dog or cat inside.  Barnhart says for the pets that are inside create a safe space for them.

Barnhart says it is also recommend to take the dog for a walk earlier in the evening before the fireworks have started.

The hospital in Nowata is applying to reclassify and a group of citizens are trying to keep the hospital they have.

Ascension St. John has submitted an application to the Oklahoma State Department of Health to reclassify from a Critical Access Hospital to a Rural Emergency Hospital. A group of Nowata citizens have started the “Save our Hospital” movement. Group Memeber Mike Dye says this will change what is available to residents through the hospital.

Ascension St. John says patients who need to be transported to a hospital will be stabilized in Nowata before being transferred to Jane Phillips Medical Center in Bartlesville or St. John Owasso. Group Member Cheryl Reid says this not only affects the patients who would have been admitted into the hospital but also their families.

The Save our Hospital group will be holding a community event and meeting on Sunday, July 12^th at Nowata High School. There will be live music and free food from 1:00pm to 2:00pm and the community meeting will start at 2:00pm.

The Coffeyville Fire Department responds to a vehicle fire.

Just after 2:00pm this afternoon, CFD responded to a vehicle fire in the Medicine Shop parking lot.  The vehicle was parked away from the shop building and the fire looks to be contained to just the vehicle.

More information will be given as it becomes available.

Walnut caterpillars and fall webworms are becoming more active across the area this summer.

Walnut caterpillars feed in large groups and can quickly strip leaves from walnut, pecan, and hickory trees, while fall webworms build large webs at the ends of branches as they feed. Most healthy trees will recover from the damage, but repeated defoliation can weaken them over time.  Wildcat Extension District Horticulture Agent Kenny Dodson says homeowners should check trees early for signs of damage and shares a few simple ways to get rid of the pests before they become a bigger problem.

Regular monitoring can help prevent more serious tree stress later in the summer.

Communities across southeast Kansas and northeast Oklahoma are preparing to celebrate America's 250th birthday with festivals, parades, family activities, and fireworks displays throughout late June and July. Below is a list of celebrations happening across the area to help you plan your holiday weekend.

If your community is hosting a Fourth of July or America 250 celebration that isn't included on our list, we'd love to hear from you. Email the event details to news@kggfradio.com.

July 3 – Altamont, KS

• Independence Day Celebration

• Location: South side of Harrison Auditorium

July 3–4 – Altoona, KS

• Fourth of July Celebration

• Location: Altoona City Park

July 3 – Cherryvale, KS

• Cherryvale Fireworks 250th Celebration

• Festivities begin at 4 p.m.

July 4 – Independence, KS

• Independence Day Celebration

• Location: Riverside Park

• KGGF 104.1 live broadcast 6-8 p.m

July 4 – Fredonia, KS

• Community Celebration

• Location: Rotary Park

July 4 – Pittsburg, KS

• Pittsburg's 4th of July Celebration

• Location: Pittsburg

• 8 a.m. – 10 p.m.

July 4 – Bartlesville, OK

• FreedomFest

• Location: Sooner Park

July 4 – Miami, OK

• City of Miami Fireworks Show

• Location: Buffalo Run Casino & Resort

• Activities begin at 7 p.m.

July 5 – Neodesha, KS

• Independence Day Festivities

• Location: Riverwalk Park

• KGGF 104.1 live broadcast 6-8 p.m

July 11 – Coffeyville, KS

• Summer Celebration

• Location: Walter Johnson Park

• KUSN 98.1 live broadcast 6-8 p.m

July 11 – Quapaw, OK

• Quapaw 250 Years of Freedom Celebration

• Location: Quapaw Schools

• Gates open at 6:30 p.m.

Montgomery County Republicans will hold a Republican candidate forum next weekend in Independence.

Candidates for state offices such as Governor, the US Senate and House, State Attorney General, the Kansas House, and the Montgomery County Commission have been invited to appear. The public is invited to attend and hear the candidates speak before the august 4^th primary election. The forum will be held on July 18^th from 10 to Noon at the Civic Center at Memorial Hall in Independence.

Coffeyville Firefighters rescue a dog from the Verdigris River.

Emergency crews were called to the scene on River Road below the City's Water Treatment Plant around 8pm last night (July 1). Firefighters deployed the department’s rescue boat and located the dog approximately 50 yards downstream, where it was clinging to the riverbank. During the rescue, the frightened dog bit one of the firefighters, causing minor superficial injuries. Despite the bite, crews were able to safely bring the dog aboard the rescue boat. Firefighters turned the animal over to the Coffeyville Police, who then took it to Coffeyville Friends of Animals where it will be cared for.

Photo courtesy Coffeyville Fire Department

Police in Arkansas City are investigating after a body is discovered inside a residence on Tuesday.

Officers were called to the scene after a property manager working at the home noticed a foul odor coming from the residence. When police arrived, they discovered an individual deceased inside the home. The individual was taken to the Sedgwick County Forensic Science Center in Wichita for an autopsy to determine the cause and manner of death.

The person who called 9-1-1 said they originally thought the odor was caused by a dead animal, but discovered what they described as the body of a male who appeared to be in their 20s or 30s stuck in the attic of the house.

Police have not yet determined the identity of the deceased man and ask that anyone who may be able to help to contact the Arkansas City Police Department Investigations Unit at (620) 441-4547.

The Kansas Bureau of Investigation is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred on Wednesday afternoon July 1 in Kansas City, Kansas.

K-C-K Police responded to a residence on North 84^th Place around 4pm after a 9-1-1 caller reported that a family member was making threats. When officers arrived on the scene, they found the caller suffering from minor injuries inflicted by the suspect, identified as 24-year-old Bruce Charles Thomas. When officers attempted to place Thomas under arrest, he fled into the residence. He then emerged from a room armed with a knife and advanced toward officers. One K-C-K officer fired his service weapon at Thomas and struck him.

Life saving measures were taken, but Thomas was pronounced deceased at the scene. KBI agents were called in to conduct the investigation into the shooting. Once the investigation is complete, the findings will be presented to the Wyandotte County District Attorney for review.

It's Fourth of July week and that means cook outs, fireworks, and patriotic music.

The Independence Mid-Continent community band will provide the last one on that list at an America 250 concert on Saturday night. The band will perform at 8pm at the Hille Band Shell at Riverside Park, under the director of conductor Dr. A.J. Beau.

The public is invited to enjoy the concert before the July 4^th fireworks on Saturday.

One person is dead and another seriously injured following a head-on collision near Topeka.

The accident occurred just after 4pm on Wednesday, July 1, on US-24 between Topeka and Silver Lake. A 2025 Dodge Ram pickup driven by 50-year-old James Ulmer of Leavenworth was traveling east bound and was attempting to pass other vehicles. An eastbound Kia Soul driven by 28-year-old Dakota Bacon of Topeka attempted to avoid a collision with the pickup truck, but was unsuccessful. The two vehicle struck head-on. Bacon suffered fatal injuries in the crash while a passenger in his vehicle 28-year-old William C. Robertson the Third was seriously injured. The driver of the pickup also sustained minor injuries in the accident.

Driver's are urged to use patience on roadways as increased traffic is expected this week due to the Independence Day holiday.

Rural hospitals across the State of Kansas are set to receive additional funding following the announcement by Governor Laura Kelly of the approval of Kansas’ Health Care Access Improvement Program  or H-C-A-I-P preprint by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services  or C-M-S.

The approved plan allows Critical Access Hospitals (CAHs) and Rural Emergency Hospitals (REHs) to receive higher Medicaid payments through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment, bringing an estimated $83 million to these health care facilities.

Governor Kelly called the move an opportunity to ensure critical funding is allocated to areas where it is most needed: To rural hospitals and to providers serving Medicaid patients across the state.

H-C-A-I-P was created in 2005 to help improve access to health care by using a provider assessment and reimbursement program. State law requires certain hospitals to pay an annual assessment on specific services, with those funds used to increase Medicaid payments and expand access to care for low-income Kansans.

Two area cities are set to receive state grant funding to turn downtown buildings into local business incubators.

Funding for those projects comes through the Downtown Revive & Thrive grant program administered by the Office of Rural Prosperity of the Kansas Department of Commerce. Director of the Office of Rural Prosperity Trisha Purdon says the purpose of the program is the boost economic activity by using existing spaces.

The City of Potwin in Butler County will receive just over $28,000 to turn Station 85 into  a rural entrepreneurship hub combining a retail incubator, small-scale restaurant and food production space. The revitalized historic station will host multiple vendors, expand food access, and create new economic opportunities. In Woodson County, the City of Yates Center has been awarded $95,000 to renovate Waymire Marketplace into an artisan-focused incubator featuring shared retail, pop-up space and small studios for makers and small-batch producers. The space will support product launches, business growth and increased downtown activity. Purdon says these projects wouldn't be possible without the efforts of Kansas lawmakers.

In recent years, the state has seen increased demand for flexible spaces that allow entrepreneurs to test products, develop commercial concepts and pilot new ventures.

Fireworks can now be sold and shot off in Coffeyville.

City Clerk Melissa Carter says fireworks can be sold and shot off from 8:00am to midnight through July 4^th.  There are five stands that have been approved to sell fireworks in Coffeyville.

Bellino Fireworks – 1000 Hall

First Assembly of God – 1504 W 8th

Frese Fireworks – 710 NE Street

Jake's Fireworks – 714 W 11th

Sizzboom Fireworks – 801 W 11th

Public Service Company of Oklahoma customers will see higher electric bills.

Beginning today, the utility company implemented interim rates while state regulators continue reviewing its request for a permanent rate increase. The interim rates will increase the average residential customer's monthly bill by about $11, based on usage of 1,100 kilowatt-hours per month. The increase comes as the Oklahoma Corporation Commission considers PSO's request for a larger rate hike. Regulators could approve the company's request, set a lower permanent rate or establish a rate below the interim amount now taking effect.

If the commission ultimately approves a rate lower than the interim rate, PSO says it will refund customers the difference. The Oklahoma Corporation Commission has not announced when it expects to issue a final decision on the utility's rate request.

Data centers are showing interest in Coffeyville.  City Manager Ben Brubaker says because the City owns and operates its own municipal electric utility they are in a unique position.  Brubaker says he wants any potential conversations with data centers to be completely transparent.

Brubaker says any proposal that the City would consider would need to protect the reliability of the electric system, ensure that existing customers aren't subsidizing development and provide long term value to the City. He says these standards are what have pushed developers away over the last two years.

Brubaker says he believes that if structured correctly having a data center come to Coffeyville would represent a significant opportunity. Brubaker says in the next 30 to 45 days they are going to be putting a public forum together where they can discuss the benefits and hear concerns about data centers from the community. He says he believes in the next 30 days they'll have proposals from two data centers.

County fair season is here, and now is the time for exhibitors to make sure they're prepared. Before heading to the fair, carefully read your county fair book for important entry requirements, project rules, deadlines, and the correct age divisions and exhibit categories.

Agriculture and Natural Resources Agent Clayton Lester says if you're showing livestock, don't forget to keep your animals well-watered, especially during the summer heat, and continue providing proper daily care.

Horticulture Agent Kenny Dodson also says the fair is about more than earning a ribbon.

The fair is an opportunity to showcase months of hard work, gain valuable feedback, learn new skills, and grow through the experience.

A Parsons man is in custody and faces charges of aggravated assault and battery.

In the early hours of Tuesday, June 30, officers from the Parsons Police Department responded to reports of an armed assault involving a firearm at the Mendota Creek Apartment Complex on South 25^th Street. Upon arrival, officers learned that an adult male victim had been threatened with multiple firearms during a confrontation outside an apartment. A second victim reported being struck in the head with the shotgun, causing visible injury. Following the confrontation, the suspect allegedly returned to the area and damaged the victim's vehicle and personal property before again fleeing the scene.

The suspect was identified as 27-year-old Daiquarrius "Tre" Higgins of Parsons. Law enforcement was able obtain a search warrant for Higgins' apartment, but he was not found inside.

Higgins later arrived voluntarily at the Parsons Police Station and agreed to an interview with investigators. He was then taken into custody without incident. Higgins was booked into the Parsons Police Department Holding Facility on the following requested charges Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Battery, Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Damage to Property and Criminal Threat. Additional charges remain under review as the investigation continues.

Tomato cracking remains a common issue in home gardens as fruit nears maturity.  Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent Clayton Lester says tomato cracking develops when rapid growth creates internal pressure in the fruit, often after inconsistent watering or sudden changes in moisture.

While cracking affects the tomato's appearance, it does not reduce its eating quality. Lester also says maintaining consistent soil moisture through deep watering and mulch helps minimize cracking. 

Gardeners can also reduce the risk by selecting crack-resistant varieties, including Jetstar, Mountain Fresh, Mountain Pride, Floralina, and Sun Leaper.

The Fourth of July is coming up on Saturday and Triple-A Kansas says the holiday weekend is shaping up as a busy time for travel.

More than 70 million Americans are expected to travel more than fifty miles from home to celebrate America's 250^th birthday this weekend. Shawn Steward with Triple-A Kansas says that includes around 690,000 Kansans.

For those looking to avoid the busiest travel days, Steward says, because the holiday falls on a weekend, roads may be consistently busy.

For drivers, gas prices in Kansas are averaging $3.51 a gallon, which is 60 cents higher than a year ago. However, Steward says prices in the Sunflower State are down nearly 40 cents per gallon over the last month.

Steward adds that one of the most important things to remember as you head out for the holiday is to avoid alcohol and always wear your seat belt.

The Fort Scott National Historic Site will put the boom in the Fourth of July this Saturday.

The public is invited to the Fort Scott fort for the Sights and Sounds of American Independence. Attendees can celebrate American independence with the sounds of cannon fire and immersion in America’s history while honoring the men and women who have defended the United States through the growth of our nation.

The Fort will conduct artillery demonstrations at 10am, 11am, 2pm and 3pm on Saturday. At 1pm, there will also be a ranger-guided tour of the historic fort.

Fort Scott National Historic Site is a part of the National Park Service and is open to the public Friday through Tuesday from 8:30 to 4:30 . Park grounds are open daily from one-half hour before sunrise to one-half hour after sunset. For more information or to learn how to get involved, call 620-223-0310 or visit the National Park Service online at www.nps.gov/fosc.

Electric rates for customers across the State of Oklahoma are set to rise today, though not as much as originally expected.

Oklahoma electric rates will increase by on percent beginning today after State Attorney General Gentner Drummond's Office reached a settlement agreement with the Public Service Company of Oklahoma. The settlement reduced the P-S-O's original request for a 15 percent increase, a rise that would have seen the average customer's utility bill increase by around $15 per month. Instead, the settlement that was announced on Tuesday will see the average residential customer's monthly bill increase by about $2.45.

The settlement agreement will still need to be approved by the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

A Winfield teen is in the hospital after falling from a moving vehicle on Monday night.

Winfield Police say the accident occurred around 11pm on Monday at Winfield City Lake in Cowley County. The 16-year-old boy was taken to a Wichita hospital after being treated at the scene by first responders. His condition has not been released. An investigation into the incident indicates that the boy fell from the back of a moving vehicle that was being driven by an 18-year-old Winfield woman. The fall caused the boy's head to strike the roadway, causing him to lose consciousness.

The incident remains under investigation and the case has been forwarded to the Cowley County Attorney's Office for possible charges.

A former Cherokee County Sheriff's Deputy is sentenced to 18 years in prison in a child sex abuse case.

25-year-old Garrett Gayoso of Baxter Springs was sentenced on Monday to 222 months in prison for enticing a minor to create and send him child sexual abuse materials. Court documents indicate that Gayoso entered a guilty plea to one count of producing child pornogrpahy.

Between August 2024 and April 2025, the Kansas bureau of Investigation says Gayoso exchanged text messages with a 16-year-old minor that he met online. Evidence in the case showed the victim was quickly forthcoming with Gayoso about her age and that Gayoso groomed and convinced the victim to engage in explicit activity, produce visual depictions of the conduct, and then send him the images via text messages. At the time, Gayoso was serving as a detective in the Cherokee County Sheriff's Office and was assigned to investigate online crimes against children.

Gayoso resigned as a deputy in May 2025 and was indicted by a grand jury the following December with one count of producing child pornography. He entered a guilty plea in the case in federal court in April.

The City of Cherryvale has canceled the Talk With the Chief event scheduled for tonight at City Hall.

This was to be the second event to allow the public to engage in an open forum with Interim Police Chief Joshua Shields. Shields took over as Interim Chief following the resignation of former Chief Jimmy Holt in early May. The City gave no reason for the cancellation of tonight's event and there has been no word as to whether or not the Talk With the Chief forum will be rescheduled.

Four southeast Kansas organizations are among twenty-four Kansas non-profits that will share in $4.13 million in Community Service Program Tax Credits through the Kansas Department of Commerce.

Under this program, the state authorizes nonprofit organizations to offer tax credits to donors who make contributions toward approved projects. Organizations in rural areas with populations less than 15,000 can receive a 70% credit. Among the groups receiving $182,000 in credits are Labette Health in Parsons for the purchase of a new mammography machine; St. Paul Alumni & Friends Association for ADA compliance at Miles Field in Saint Paul, and the Community Health Center of SEK to construct two quality, energy-efficient homes in Columbus. The Elk County Preservation Society in Howard will receive $125,000 in credits for creating a multi-use community space in the vacant Howard National Bank building.

The Community Service Tax Credit Program provides an opportunity for non-profit organizations and public health entities to improve their ability to undertake major capital campaigns. The Community Service Program Tax Credits program was first implemented in 1994.

Wilson County Firefighters respond to a structure fire.

According to Wilson County Rural Fire, last night around 7:45, county units were called to a structure fire in the northeast part of the county. Upon arrival, Chanute Fire was requested for mutual aid. Despite the efforts of the departments, the structure was a total loss. No injuries were reported.

Photo: Wilson County Rural Fire

A new food truck is now open in Coffeyville.

Chamber of Commerce President Candi Westbrook says the food truck is in the parking lot of the Wilcox Bargain Outlet.  Yum Yum Cuisine opened up last Thursday and the Chamber will host a ribbon cutting for the new food truck tomorrow at 10:00am.