Former Columbus mayor Opela dies

Former Columbus Mayor Dexter Opela died at his home Sunday. Dexter and wife Sammye made their home in Columbus in 2005 and immediately became involved in community activities. He spent his career in the construction industry, where he was known for his work ethic and his drive for excellence.

Baxter Springs Sports Hall of Fame opens

Five members were inducted into the inaugural class of the Baxter Springs High School Sports Hall of Fame Saturday night. The dinner was held in the Baxter Springs High School recognizing the first group of outstanding athletes, coaches and supporters of the athletic programs at BHS.

State Supreme Court reverses local judge

The Supreme Court has reversed the Cherokee County District Court’s denial of jail time credit for Mark Hopkins II, 31, of Columbus. He spent 572 days in jail awaiting sentencing after being convicted of murder.

County Democrats welcome State Chair

The Cherokee County Democrat Central Committee welcomed Chair of the State Party Jeanna Repass to Columbus Thursday evening. The dinner meeting held in the County Extension building, Repass told the local Democrats, “I love our country, and the small cities in Kansas.

Kansas lawmakers nearly double salary

After years of stagnant pay, Kansas lawmakers could see their salaries almost double in 2025, including hefty additional compensation for the Legislature’s highest-ranking members.

CALENDAR

Tuesday, October 24 •Commodity distribution at Life Christian 10 a.m.- 11 a.m. •Drive Thru Flu Clinic at Cherokee County Health Department 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Walnut Street will be closed for the event. •Bunco activities at the Cherokee County Hospitality Center 516 N. Kansas 1 p.m.-3 p.m. Everyone...

Football contest winners

Each of the top two entries in the Columbus Football Contest missed only one of the games. Dennis Frazier missed when Wichita Trinity outscored Baxter Springs but still won top money.

Scammon Fire Department

Everyone was having fun at the Scammon Fire Department Hot Rods and Hoses Car, Truck and Cycle Show Saturday. Ruby Ross, was excited with the green hand balloon she won at the carnival.

The Big Brutus Board of directors

The Big Brutus Board of directors received a check for $15,878 the proceeds from the Big Iron Overland Rally Saturday night auction. Chris Moore of Overland Rally Expo made the presentation.