All posts by Submitted Story
Bo Co Democrats Meet April 21
The Bourbon County Democrats will meet on Sunday, April 21, at 2:00 p.m. in the Ellis Center Meeting Rooms at Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton.
After a short meeting, State Representative Linda Featherston will speak and then hold a short discussion time. Information regarding the special election on May 14 will be shared, and a candidate who has filed for State Senate will introduce himself.
Please come join us. We have a full agenda! Contact 620 215 1505 by leaving a message or, preferably, a text with your name.
Submitted by:
Carol MacArthur
Chair, Bourbon Co. Democrats
Please like them on Facebook
“Serving Bourbon County’s Registered Democrats”
As Good as it Gets By Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker
Today’s society likes to give ratings and many businesses encourage consumers to rate their experience concerning services or products. With the five choices of (1) very poor, (2) poor, (3) average, (4) good, (5) excellent, receiving a five-star rating is as good as it gets. After a recent church service, I told my Pastor that he delivered a six-star message (I thought it was “over the top.”) In my mind, that was the same as giving him an A+! I sure hope he didn’t think I was giving him a 6 out of 10. Maybe that’s why he gave me that funny look.
When God created the heavens and the earth, “God saw that it was good” was recorded five times in the Book of Genesis as a summary statement. But on the sixth day, when He created man (humankind) in His own image, He upped His own rating from good to very good: “Then God saw everything that He had made, and indeed it was very good” (Genesis 1:31 NKJV). Since Yahweh is a five-star God, I prefer to believe that “very good” is the same as “excellent” and that’s as good as it gets.
Before he became king, David penned the following psalm: “Oh, taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the man who trusts in Him!” (Psalm 34:8 NKJV). David could say that the Lord was good by his personal experience. He placed his faith in a never-failing God. David experienced many turbulent circumstances but they never shook him loose from God’s promises to protect and deliver him. “You have done many good things for me, Lord, just as You promised (Psalm 119:65 NLT). If believers will only taste (give God a chance), we’ll see (experience) His goodness in our lives.
Because we have an excellent 5-star God, we should desire to step up to the plate and serve Him with excellence. As His ambassadors, we represent Christ in everything we do and say. The rubber meets the road outside the walls of the church building. When the pressure is on, the following thoughts may cross your mind: “This is good enough.” “I don’t have time to do it right.” “I’ll do better next time.” “Nobody cares, so why should I?” “I’m just guessing; I hope I spelled his name correctly.” I’m sure grateful that God never has a lazy or lousy mindset about His responsibilities.
Peter boldly reminds believers that we have an important job to do. “But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for His own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of Him who called you out of darkness into His marvelous light” (1 Peter 2:9 ESV). Just like a mannequin in the store window, we’re to display the excellent virtues of Jesus. I’ll be the first to admit, there are times when I feel like a dummy because I thoughtlessly said or did something unkind. Regretfully, I didn’t represent Jesus well in that moment. But, thankfully, there’s mercy and forgiveness for a dummy’s repentant heart. “Oh, give thanks to the Lord, for He is good! For His mercy endures forever” (Psalm 107:1 NKJV). “For the Lord is good. His unfailing love continues forever, and His faithfulness continues to each generation” (Psalm 100:5 NLT).
The Key: God is good. God is very good. God is excellent.
Bo Co Commission Agenda for April 15
Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-583
Bourbon County, Kansas
Attachments:
Financial Review Accounts Payable 4-10-2024
1st District Commissioner
Jim Harris, Chairman
2nd District Commissioner
Clifton Beth
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, KS 66701
April 15, 2024 5:30 p.m.
- Call Meeting to Order
- Flag Salute
- Approval of Consent Agenda
- Approval of Minutes from 4/8/2024
- Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $13,848.18
- Public Comments
- Cherri Walrod-CORE Community Program Update
- Charles Gentry-Citizens for ER Committee
- Eric Bailey, Public Works Director- 2024 Hard Surface Road Plan
- Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk
- Executive Session KSA 75-4319 (b)(2)
- KDHE Public Notice
- KDOT District Meeting
- KCAMP Documents
- Incompatibility of Office Clarification
- Commission Comments
- Adjourn Meeting
Executive Session Justifications:
KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the
representative(s) of the body or agency.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting
would jeopardize such security measures.
Helping Children Self-Regulate
K-State Research and Extension
Family and Consumer Science Agent
Southwind District
211 W. Butler
Yates Center, KS 66783
620-625-8620
K-State Research and Extension Southwind District – Family and Consumer Science Agent
Helping Children Self-Regulate
Self-regulation is defined as the ability to manage thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. These skills develop in young children as they interact with their family, caregivers, and environments.
Children who are able to keep themselves calm during a frustrating situation, instead of having a tantrum, are using their self-regulation skills. These skills can be learned throughout the lifespan but can be extra beneficial for young children. By controlling their emotions, children can focus more on achieving their goals while keeping an open mind that stimulates learning.
Brain development plays a big role in self-regulation. Infants rely on the “survival center” near the bottom of the brainstem to maintain things like breathing and digestion. Toddlers and preschoolers start to use their “emotional center” known as the amygdala to communicate and express themselves through feelings. Young children and adolescents begin to use their “thinking center” or the cerebrum to problem solve, think before acting, and organize their behavior. Without the development of self-regulation skills, children will be stuck relying on the survival and emotional centers in their brains. This makes it hard for children to control their thoughts, feelings, and behaviors.
To develop these skills, the brain needs safe and meaningful interactions with family members, peers, and the world around them. This helps the brain make new connections that help with thought process and learning. To help your child(ren) develop these skills, start by focusing on building a strong connection with them. Respond warmly and consistently to their emotional and physical needs and encourage exploration and learning. Family routines and rituals are also beneficial to foster learning. This can look like family meals together, playtime, or bedtime routines. Focusing on positive rules can also encourage critical thinking. Focus on what things they should do instead of what they shouldn’t.
Practice makes perfect for children and adults alike. If your child has a hard time controlling themselves in certain environments, continue to practice what that should look like and focus on what they are feeling. If you encourage them to share openly some of the things that frustrate them, you will be able to talk through those things and help them overcome them. Practicing through play can be a positive way for your child to practice new skills. Encouraging breathing and mindfulness exercises can also help children calm down and be aware of what they are feeling. These activities help them return control to their “thinking center” of the brain, which will help them make good choices.
Self-regulation is a skill that can be developed with time, help, and support. Therapy, counseling, and parent support groups may be helpful resources for you to seek out as you support your child(ren)’s healthy development. For more information, contact Cassidy Lutz at [email protected] or by calling 620-625-8620.
The Vital Roles of a Newcomer
In small towns and rural areas, new folks bring big changes that matter a lot. When people move to different states or areas, they have all sorts of reasons for choosing those locations. Understanding these reasons is key to knowing how newcomers help places grow.
Newcomers aren’t just faces in a crowd—they’re the ones who bring new energy and ideas to small towns. Experts have studied and seen that, when fresh faces show up, it can be like a breath of fresh air for communities.
You might wonder why someone chooses to move to a specific town or state. Some come for jobs or better work opportunities, while others might move for the beautiful landscapes or a slower pace of life. Some pick a place because of family ties or friends already living there. Understanding these reasons helps communities see what makes them attractive to new folks.
When newcomers arrive, they’re like a boost for small towns. They often bring new skills, different perspectives, and lots of enthusiasm. They bring a bit of their own spice to the mix, making things more interesting. And it’s not just about them moving in; it’s about what they do when they get there.
Some newcomers dive right in—they join clubs, volunteer, start businesses, and get involved in making decisions for their community. This isn’t just good for the town; it’s good for everyone. They bring fresh ideas, help businesses grow, and make the place feel more connected; others may need a bit more of a “pull” from others in the community to come out of their shell.
Understanding what makes newcomers feel at home is vitally important. Maybe it’s about creating more job opportunities, inventing fun events, improving schools. Knowing these things helps make the place more welcoming and helps keep these new faces around.
A few ways your community can become more welcoming for newcomers:
- Start by listening: Both newcomers and longtime residents can feel alienated by change and unwelcome in their community.
- Create “Do It Together” opportunities: Bring residents together through common projects. It’s an opportunity to bring people together through the arts, sports, volunteering, or myriad other ways that provide a chance for neighbors to find common ground.
- Build a community-wide Welcoming agenda: Communities can create their own welcoming plan and bring together different sectors—government, business, community, faith, etc. Remember, when new people come in, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas. And when they feel welcomed and understood, they stick about and help make things better for everyone.
In the end, newcomers can be the secret ingredient that makes small towns better. They bring new ideas and energy, making these places feel like home for everyone. When new people come in, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas, but when they feel welcomed and understood, they stick around and help make things better for everyone.
For More information, contact Community Vitality Agent, Amanda Clasen at [email protected] or at 620-244-3826.
Governor Kelly Vetoes Bills, Allows One to Become Law Without Signature
TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly today vetoed Substitute Bill for Senate Bill 233, House Bill 2749, Substitute Bill for House Bill 2436, Senate Bill 434, House Bill 2446, and House Bill 2648. Governor Kelly also allowed Senate Bill 394 to become law without her signature.
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Substitute Bill for Senate Bill 233:
“This divisive legislation targets a small group of Kansans by placing government mandates on them and dictating to parents how to best raise and care for their children. I do not believe that is a conservative value, and it’s certainly not a Kansas value.
“To be clear, this legislation tramples parental rights.
“The last place that I would want to be as a politician is between a parent and a child who needed medical care of any kind. And, yet, that is exactly what this legislation does.
“If the legislature paid this much attention to the other 99.8% of students, we’d have the best schools on earth.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Substitute Bill for Senate Bill 233.”
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2749:
“Kansans spoke loud and clear in August 2022. Voters do not want politicians getting between doctors and their patient by interfering in private medical decisions.
“House Bill 2749 is invasive and unnecessary. There is no valid medical reason to force a woman to disclose to the legislature if they have been a victim of abuse, rape, or incest prior to obtaining an abortion. There is also no valid reason to force a woman to disclose to the legislature why she is seeking an abortion.
“I refuse to sign legislation that goes against the will of the majority of Kansans who spoke loudly on August 2, 2022: Kansans don’t want politicians involved in their private medical decisions.
“There are some in the legislature who have forgotten that. I have not. Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Bill 2749.”
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Substitute Bill for House Bill 2436:
“While I agree that no one should be coerced into undergoing a medical procedure against their will, it is already a crime to threaten violence against another individual.
“Additionally, I am concerned with the vague language in this bill and its potential to intrude upon private, often difficult, conversations between a person and their family, friends, and health care providers. This overly broad language risks criminalizing Kansans who are being confided in by their loved ones or simply sharing their expertise as a health care provider.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Substitute Bill for House Bill 2436.”
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of Senate Bill 434:
“I have serious concerns that deregulating sugaring — a hair removal technique that may be performed on minors — could lead to safety and sanitation problems. We have a responsibility to protect Kansans – and this deregulation would threaten the health and safety of Kansans – particularly our children.
“Under the purview of the Kansas Board of Cosmetology, sugaring practitioners are required to adhere to the same health and safety standards as other cosmetologists and estheticians. They are subject to criminal background checks and training prior to the successful completion of exams to earn state licensure. Deregulating sugaring risks contamination, improper infection control, and potential safety issues involving minors. I am not willing to undermine the Kansas Board of Cosmetology’s expertise or threaten the long-term health and safety of Kansans who receive sugaring services.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto Senate Bill 434.”
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2446:
“I believe in local control and that local officials should be held accountable by their constituents, stakeholders, and businesses. This bill lacks sufficient protection to ensure local units of government are able to play a meaningful role in decision making on issues impacting their communities.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Bill 2446.”
The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Bill 2648:
“House Bill 2648 would insert bureaucratic red tape intended to legislatively interfere with the timely implementation of necessary and important rules and regulations. Many of these regulations are for the protection and safety of Kansans.
“Kansans voted no to giving the legislature veto power over rules and regulations in the November 2022 election. This is yet again another attempt by the legislature to undermine the will of the voters.
“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Bill 2648.”
The following statement is from Governor Kelly regarding allowing Senate Bill 394 to become law without her signature:
“While well-meaning in its efforts to protect children from content the legislature considers ‘harmful to minors,’ this bill is vague in its application and may end up infringing on constitutional rights, which is an issue being litigated in other jurisdictions over similar bills. For that reason, I will allow this bill to become law without my signature.”
###
Downtown Spring Clean-up Update
Downtown Division of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Announces Downtown Spring Clean Up 2024
The Downtown Division of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce has planned a Downtown Spring Clean event on Monday, April 22nd from 4 to 6pm. The committee is seeking volunteers for this event to spruce up the Downtown Historic District.
The first 150 participants will receive a free t-shirt, courtesy of MyOneStop. Dinner will be served to volunteers following the event, courtesy of downtown restaurants.
Those who are interested in volunteering may contact Bailey Lyons, Downtown Division Chair, at 620-224-7795 or email [email protected].
Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information.
AMERICAN PICKERS to Film in Kansas
The American Pickers are excited to return to Kansas! They plan to film episodes of The History Channel hit television series throughout your area in June 2024.
AMERICAN PICKERS is a documentary series that explores the fascinating world of antique “picking” on The History Channel. The hit show follows skilled pickers in the business, as they hunt for America’s most valuable antiques.
They are always excited to find historically significant or rare items, in addition to unforgettable Characters and their collections.
As they hit the back roads from coast to coast, the Pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics.
Along the way, they want to meet characters with amazing stories and fun items. They hope to give historically significant objects a new lease on life while learning a thing or two about America’s past along the way.
The Pickers have seen a lot of rusty gold over the years and are always looking to discover something they’ve never seen
before. They are ready to find extraordinary items and hear fascinating tales about them.
The American Pickers TV Show is looking for leads and would love to explore your hidden treasure. If you or someone you know has a unique item, story to tell, and is ready to sell…we would love to hear from you! Please note, the Pickers DO NOT pick stores, flea markets, malls, auction businesses, museums, or anything open to the public.
If interested, please send us your name, phone number, location, and description of the collection with photos to:
[email protected] or call (646) 493-2184
facebook: @GotAPick
Letter To The Editor: Loreta Jent
Dear Editor:
Alcohol is a manipulative thief! It will steal your relationships, health, and money. It is a toxic poison, a carcinogen linked to 7 different types of cancer: mouth, voice box, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and breast.
Alcohol producers craftily design their products to allure, addict, and cause self-blame, instead of blaming themselves that made it.
Choose today, during April’s Alcohol Awareness Month, to deny alcohol the chance to steal your health and happiness!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Loreta Jent,
Education Director National Woman’s Christian Temperance Union
What’s Happening in Fort Scott
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
…
Obituary of Lola Jean Driver
Lola Jean Driver, age 71, resident of Fort Scott, KS died Thursday, April 11, 2024, at Via Christi Hospital, Pittsburg, KS. She was born April 29, 1952, in Fort Scott, the daughter of Virgil Jean Wiggans and Lola Camp Wiggans.
Jean graduated from Fort Scott High School with the class of 1970. She married Dwight Driver in 1974. He preceded her in death in June 2011. Together, Jean and Dwight owned D & D Sales Trucking Company in Fort Scott. She was also the one looking out for the rest of the family. She enjoyed being outside, working in the yard and gardening. She liked to read, travel, visit the casino occasionally, and play with her dogs Buddy and Petey and cats Lucky and Flower.
Survivors include her son, Jimmy Driver, Fort Scott; her siblings, Jimmy Wiggans, and Lavetta Simmons (Jerry) all of Fort Scott; grandchildren Adele Brown and several others; and several nieces and nephews.
Besides her husband Dwight, she was preceded in death by a stepson Dwight L. Driver and her parents.
The family will receive friends from 4:00 until 6:00 PM Monday, April 15th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Cremation will follow with burial later in the Clarksburg Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Jean Driver memorial fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.