Ascension Via Christi, Business, Fort Scott, Government, Health Care, Legacy Health Foundation, Mercy Hospital

Mental Health Center to Move Into the Former Mercy Building

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401 Woodland Hills Blvd. May 2023.

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center in Fort Scott has recently signed an agreement with Legacy  Health LLC for the center to move into the former Mercy Hospital Building at 401 Woodland Hills.

The building was recently vacated by Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas who moved to another Fort Scott building.

The former Mercy Clinic Suites C and D, at 401 Woodland Hills, will be renovated by the Southeast Kansas Mental Health Clinic and move in will be thereafter.

“We don’t have an official date for the move as we need to secure a contractor for some renovations but are hoping this summer,” said Holly Jerome, SEKMHC’s director of marketing and human resources said. “Once a move date has been set, we will be notifying clients and the community.”

“We are certainly not new to Fort Scott,” said Jerome. “We were established in 1961! But due to our growth after becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Healthcare Clinic ( in 2022) we are outgrowing our current building which is located at 212 State Street.”

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center, Fort Scott.

“We will continue offering our current and expanded services,” Jerome said. “This new space will allow us to continue adding to our team!”

“SEKMHC is one of the first five community mental health centers to earn certification,” CEO Nathan Fawson said in a press release https://fortscott.biz/news/legacy-health-partners-with-southeast-kansas-mental-health-to-expand-services. “The CCBHC model of care concentrates on the overall health of a client, not just their mental health. We have expanded our care to integrate holistic care approaches, connect people with care coordination, and increase accessibility to services throughout our six–county catchment area. Looking into the future, we are striving to provide each client with a much more individualized experience by assisting clients in recovery–oriented ways in their homes, in our communities, or via telehealth whenever possible. We know that recovery is possible when you treat the person, not just their mental health challenge.”–

According to its website https://www.sekmhc.org/ the services  they provide to the community are:

  • Substance use and addictions counseling
  • Clinical therapy and counseling
  • Community support and groups
  • Crisis intervention
  • Psychiatric and medication management
    They have locations in:
  • Allen County
  • Anderson County
  • Bourbon County
  • Linn County
  • Neosho County
  • Woodson County

Last year they served over 4,000 clients, according to its website. The staff provide school based therapy and case management in 12 school districts. They have 15 team members in the crisis department and 10 in the psychiatry department.

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center is in transition to become a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC), according to its website. A CCBHC provides comprehensive behavioral health services, while also focusing on physical health and whole person wellness.

What the transition means is, the following is added:

  • Patient navigation services
  • Comprehensive behavioral health screening at intake
  • Primary health screening including gathering health metrics (height, weight, and blood pressure)
  • Primary health resources and referral

What won’t change is:

  • Access to counseling and therapy
  • Access to crisis services
  • Access to medical services and psychiatry
  • Community-based services for adults and children
  • Services and programs previously provided, unless otherwise noted

Upcoming Community Self-Care Event:

A Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center Self-Care Fair will be held on May 23, from 5-8 p.m. at the Fort Scott Middle School, 1105 E. 12th.

For more information:

https://www.sekmhc.org/selfcarefair/

For questions about the self-care fair, contact: Dawne Burchett at 620-496-8702 or Vicki Wright at 620-212-9391.

About Legacy Health

Legacy Health has a mission to bring development and healthcare to rural communities through sustainable and proactive approaches, according to the Legacy Health press release. Legacy believes that for a project to be successful, it is necessary to understand the needs of the community and the people.

Legacy Health LLC was registered on  June 7,  2022 as a Limited Liability Company – CA company type incorporated at 269 WEST BONITA CLAREMONT, CA 91711. according to /https://ca.ltddir.com/companies/legacy-health-llc/

Troy Schell is the Legacy Health Chairman of the Board, according to the press release.

Chief Clinical Officer is Jennifer Massey and  she is the contact person at [email protected]

Chief Strategy Officer is  Merrill Eisenhower.

 

Locally, Matthew Wells is Legacy Healthcare Foundation Director of Plant Operations at the 401 Woodland Hills site. His duties are technical and equipment maintenance. Wells recently helped the building receive joint hospital accreditation, which is necessary because of the patient care given in the Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department that is also housed in the facility, he said.

The Legacy Health Foundation received the building from the Bourbon County Commission in November 2022. In addition to the building, the commission gave Legacy Health Foundation  $2 million dollars from funds received from Mercy Hospital and American Rescue Plan Act Funds to develop the property, according to a prior story.

To view the prior story:

https://fortscott.biz/news/bourbon-county-transfers-mercy-building-to-legacy-health-foundation

 

Bourbon County, Youth

Uniontown 4-H Club May Report By: Marley Sutton

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 Several Uniontown 4-H club members recently took part in the 4-H expo at Tractor Supply in Fort Scott Kansas. The purpose of the event was to promote various 4-H projects to local community members. Makiah Woods promoted the dog project, the Sutton kids promoted the swine project, and the Bloesser kids promoted sewing and foods.

     Three Uniontown 4-H club members competed in the Perry-Lecompton Junior High Aggie Day. The team ranked first overall with Hailey Shadden receiving high individual, Marley Sutton ranking 3rd, and Kendyl Bloesser ranking 11th individually.

 

Bourbon County

Starlite FCE Minutes April, 2023

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The April meeting of Starlite FCE was held at the Yeager Building on the Bourbon County Fair grounds.  Vice President Joyce Allen called the meeting to order and led the club in the Pledge of Allegiance and the club collect.  Eight members were in attendance and reported that they had volunteered forty-seven hours and had recycled 2110 pounds.

 

Doris Ericson reported that the bake less bake sale had raised $174 and that she had sent in 1000 Best Choice labels.  She also reported that she had sent $40 to the 4-H fair premiums and $50 for open class premiums.  Deb Lust moved that we accept the Treasurers report, Karen Peery seconded the motion, motion carried.

 

Joyce announced that the Easter eggs had been delivered to Tri-Valley and that Jack Jackson had presented the lesson on Men’s health to the Uniontown Ruritan Club.  Twelve members and guests were in attendance.  It was also announced that at the Area Recognition Day that Betty Johnson was recognized as the area Heart of FCE representing the Southeast Kansas District.  Starlite received First Place in the District in Education with our program on Last Wishes.  We also received Second with our Community Service project.  Bourbon County FCE clubs received 100% reporting award and Starlite received a gold seal.

 

Doris Ericson announced that Aging with Attitude will be held April 28th in Parsons.  Joyce Allen passed around a Sympathy card for Helen Carson.  She will be greatly missed.

 

Jack Jackson will be presenting the lesson on Mens Health to our club on June 15th and again at the Fair.

 

Betty Johnson moved that the meeting be adjourned, Doris Ericson seconded the motion, meeting adjourned.

 

After the meeting Joyce Allen presented the program on “Healthy Body, Healthy Brain.”  Refreshment of Orange and Strawberry yogurt pie, mints, nuts and water were provided by LeAnna Taylor and Joyce Allen and enjoyed by all.

 

Prepared by

Terri Williams

 

Opinion

You May Be Seated by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

You May Be Seated

 

Have you ever attended a wedding when the minister forgot to tell the audience to be seated? I have and it was terribly awkward. We continued to stand because we were patiently waiting to hear, “Please be seated,” but the appropriate moment came and went and there we stood, uncomfortable and annoyed. Finally, the minister noticed and gave us permission to sit.  I’ve been involved in enough weddings and funerals to write a bizarre book. Just when I think I’ve seen and heard it all, I find out I haven’t. Americans should be used to standing in line (and maybe we are) but I don’t think we like it. A lady who lived to be over 100 years old was asked what her secret to longevity was. She answered, “I never stood when I could sit, and I never sat when I could lay down.”   

 

In the natural, believers are living on the earth being the hands and feet of Jesus. But at the same time (in the spiritual realm) we are seated with Christ because we are united with Him. We’re to be loving examples of God’s favor and kindness because of what He has done for us through His Son. “But God is so rich in mercy, and He loved us so much, that…He gave us life when He raised Christ from the dead. For He raised us from the dead along with Christ and seated us with Him in the heavenly realms because we are united with Christ Jesus. So God can point to us…as examples of the incredible wealth of His grace and kindness toward us, as shown in all He has done for us who are united with Christ Jesus” (Ephesians 2:4-7 NLT).

 

We have a tendency to be so focused and involved in the busyness and stress of life that we completely forget where we are in the heavenly realm. No matter what negative or challenging situations we’re in, we must remember that we have the privilege to be at rest. Many occupations require individuals to be on their feet for the entire shift. We’ve all heard someone say, “I’ve been on my feet all day — I’ve simply got to sit down!” Spiritually speaking, God in His mercy has provided a comfortable and relaxing place for His children to sit down. We can stand in the natural while being seated in the Spirit.

 

However, you can lead a horse to water but you can’t make him drink. Recently, my friend Carie and I were seated at a table at the local coffee house when another church friend approached to say “hello.” At least twice I offered him the extra seat, but he politely refused to accept it. Jesus has a chair just for you, but it’s your choice to accept or reject it. Why wear yourself out by standing on your own two feet when you don’t have to? Being at rest and seated with Christ is an inclusive privilege when we are truly united with Him.

 

I suspect there are a large number of Christ followers who are refusing to be seated next to Jesus. By either not knowing any better or just plain stubbornness, we  reject the rest that is rightfully ours. In the midst of our struggles we often overlook and miss the open seat that’s available to us. Why in the world would we refuse the peace we so desperately need when our feet and heart are crying out for mercy? We can choose to accept the  comfort of resting in Him. When we’re seated next to Christ, we’re set free from the stress and troubles that are beyond our control. Are you going to trust Jesus to be big enough to love on you and take care of you? Why stand alone when you can sit together?

 

The Key: Let’s get off our feet and take our seat.

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Agenda for April 11

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Uniontown City Council Agenda for April 11

2023 Financials-April

04112023 Regular Meeting(1)

___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Loren Korte – Personal Service Insurance –

 

Don George, Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism –

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of April 11, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
  2. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

 

 

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

 

 

Clerk Report:  Sally Johnson  

Mural Grant

Old Settlers’ insurance

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilwoman Esslinger –

Councilman Hartman –

Councilwoman Kelly –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

Placemaking Project –

 

American Rescue Plan Act update–

 

KMGA/MMGA Prepay project –

 

Street repairs/resurfacing –

 

 

NEW BUSINESS

 

 

ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________

Business, Fort Scott, Health Care

Legacy Health partners with Southeast Kansas Mental Health to Expand Services

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Legacy Health is pleased to announce the finalization of an agreement with Southeast Kansas Mental Health.
The agreement will secure an office space in the building acquired by Legacy Health from Bourbon County in October 2022. The new Southeast Kansas Mental Health office will be located at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott.


“Legacy Health is well aware of the significance of providing access to appropriate mental health services in the Southeast Kansas area,” said Legacy Health Chairman of the board Troy Schell. “We are delighted to be able to furnish an environment that will enable Southeast Kansas Mental Health to expand its services.”
“We have been working closely with CEO of Southeast Kansas Mental Health Nathan Fawson and their Board of Directors for several months to come to this agreement,” said Chief Clinical Officer Jennifer Massey. “We look forward to welcoming them in partnership and to the building.”


“This past year has been a year of tremendous growth for Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center (SEKMHC). We’ve expanded services, hired additional staff, developed new departments, and became a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC). By partnering with Legacy Health and expanding our physical
space we will continue to meet the needs of our community. Our certification as a CCBHC establishes a foundation for continuous development in the coming years. SEKMHC is one of the first five community mental health centers to earn certification. The CCBHC model of care concentrates on the overall health of a client, not just their mental health. We have expanded our care to integrate holistic care approaches, connect people with care coordination, and increase accessibility to services throughout our six–county catchment area. Looking into the future, we are striving to provide each client with a much more individualized experience by
assisting clients in recovery–oriented ways in their homes, in our communities, or via telehealth whenever possible. We know that recovery is possible when you treat the person, not just their mental health challenge.”– Nathan Fawson, CEO


Legacy Health is dedicated to ensuring the sustained availability of superior healthcare services in Fort Scott and Bourbon County. This partnership will allow both organizations to focus on services to the community. In addition, this partnership is only the first step in instituting other clinical services in the building.


“We are thrilled about this development and look forward to upcoming projects and partnerships in Fort Scott
and Bourbon County,” said Chief Strategy Officer Merrill Eisenhower. “Legacy Health remains committed to fulfilling our promise to Bourbon County and its citizens to revitalize the facility and supply essential healthcare services to the community.”

For more information contact Legacy Health representative, Jenn Massey at [email protected].


Legacy Health


Legacy Health has a mission, driven by passion, to bring development and healthcare to rural communities
through sustainable and proactive approaches. Legacy believes that for a project to be successful, it is necessary to understand the needs of the community and the people.


Southeast Kansas Mental Health


Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center was established in 1961 and is a non–profit. It provides, advocates, and coordinates mental health care, services, and programs throughout southeast Kansas. The 250–person professionals and support specialists are committed to assessing, treating, and supporting the mental health
needs of the communities they serve

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

U234 Board of Education Agenda for May 8

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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

Superintendent                                                                                                                                             

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

MAY 8, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0       Call Meeting to Order                                  Danny Brown, President

 

2.0       Flag Salute

 

3.0       Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)

 

4.0       Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)

 

            4.1       Board Minutes

  1. 04/10/2023 Regular Meeting

            4.2       Financials-Cash Flow Report

            4.3       Check Register

            4.4       Payroll – April 12, 2023 – $392,678.35 and April 20, 2023 – $1,583,397.57

            4.5       Activity Fund accounts

            4.6       Extended Trip Application

            4.7       Point of Interest

  1. FSHS Graduation 8:00 PM – May 13th – FSHS Stadium – board members be there at 7:45 p.m. at the FSHS Commons
  2. Employee Luncheon & Recognition – May 17th – FSHS Commons – at 12:00 p.m.

                       

5.0       Recognitions

 

5.1       Student Recognition

5.2       Employee Recognition

5.3       Board Member Acknowledgements

 

6.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

 

            6.1       Superintendent’s Report

            6.2       Assistant Superintendent’s Report

6.3       Finance Director’s Report

 

7.0       Old Business

 

8.0       New Business

 

8.1       Roof Payment (Action Item)

8.2       Science Textbook Adoption (Action Item)

8.3       Greenbush Education Service Center Invoices (Action Item)

8.4       Greenbush Education Service Center Virtual Academy MOU & Assurances (Action Item)

8.5       School Photography Proposals (Action Item)

8.6       Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program (Action Item)

8.7       Discussion of Interest of Idle Funds (Action Item)

8.8       Greenbush Participation & Hedging Authorization for 2023-24 (Action Item)

           

9.0       Public Forum

10.0     Other Business – Negotiations

10.1     Enter Executive Session – Negotiations (Action Item)

10.2     Exit Executive Session

 

11.0     Other Business – Personnel Matters

11.1     Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)

11.2     Exit Executive Session

11.3     Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)

11.4     Approval of Personnel Report – Reemployment Classified & Supplemental Personnel                     2023-24 (Action Item)

 

12.0     Adjourn Meeting

                       

Bourbon County, Government

The Bourbon County Agenda for May 8

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Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

Accounts Payable 5-5-2023

Payroll 5-5-2023

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 1st Floor County Courthouse

210 S National Avenue

May 8, 2023, 5:30 PM

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute and Prayer
  • Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 5/1/2023
    2. Approval of Payroll Totaling $210,758.69
    3. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $321,662.17
  1. Department Updates
    1. Eric Bailey, Public Works Director
  2. 5:45 Public Hearing for Adoption of 5-Year Solid Waste Plan
  3. Resignation of Mark McCoy-SEK Multi-County Health Department Board
  • Lora Holdridge, Register of Deeds-Fort Scott Lake
  • Susan Bancroft, CFO-Discussion of Budget Meeting Dates
  1. Teri Hulsey, EMS Director-Discussion of Ambulance Purchase
  2. Public Comments
  3. Commission Comments
  • Meeting Adjourn

 

 

 

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.

 

Bourbon County, Church news

Uniontown Ladies Spring Tea is May 20

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Uniontown Baptist Church is located on Hwy. 3 on the town’s west side.

Ladies in the Uniontown community are invited to the Ladies Community Spring Tea on Sunday May 21 at 2 p.m. at the Uniontown Missionary Baptist Church, at the intersection of Hwy. 3 and Fifth Street.

There will be food, games, prizes-all centered around a tea cup theme.

“Please come and join us,” said Carla Shinn, one of the mission board members. “Any lady in the community is invited.”

 

 

K-State Extension

Internet and Phone Safety

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Cassidy Lutz
K-State Research and Extension 
Family and Consumer Science Agent 
Southwind District 
211 W. Butler 
Yates Center, KS 66783
620-625-8620

 

According to a study by Rawhide Youth Services, teens spend 9 hours each day consuming some form of digital content. Furthermore, parents know their children are online, but are unaware of what they have access to and how much of their time is tied to it. On average, parents guessed 3 hours.

The rapid generation of new and trendy apps, games, and websites can make it hard to keep up with all the things kids have access to. Children often don’t understand the dangers of the online world and the consequences of certain actions. They need adult help to navigate it with them.

But where do I start? This might be what you’re asking yourself if you have never approached the subject before. Establish guidelines with your kids on what sites and apps they are allowed to use and talk through why certain ones are off limits. Setting guidelines that both parent and child feel comfortable with and understand is critical to establishing healthy boundaries. You can also create electronic-free times and spaces in your home. Examples could include at the dinner table to help encourage family conversations or in bedrooms after a certain bedtime to ensure quality sleep.

Although kids might not like it, parents should also monitor online activity by regularly checking devices like computers, tablets, and phones. To help your child understand this seemingly overstepping action, talk through why it is important to keep them safe as opposed to control them. The goal here is to create open, honest conversations with your kids to help them understand the potential risks of online activity.

Kids love when parents take an interest in the things that they do. Before your child is allowed to download a new app or game, download it together and go through it with your child to see how they intend to use it and what content they are exposed to. There might be some apps that sound kid-friendly but really aren’t.

If you want to learn more about how to protect your child from online dangers, join Cassidy Lutz for What the Tech?! Phone Safety for Parents. This program will be offered in Yates Center on May 22nd, Iola on May 24th, Fort Scott on May 31st, and Chanute on June 5th. There is no fee to attend. Call the office at 620-625-8620 or email [email protected] to register.

 

Bourbon County, Business, Food, Fort Scott

FS Farmers Market Season Starts May 6 on Skubitz Plaza Including Breakfast on the Bricks

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Fort Scott Farmers Market begins its 2023 season on May 6, this Saturday, from 8 a.m. to noon.

“It’s going to be a great day for a farmer’s market,” Teri Hamilton said. She is the new president of the market members group.

The market is in front of the Fort Scott National Historic Site on Skubitz Plaza.

Spring veggies, fresh bread, meat, flowers, eggs, honey, live plants and handmade crafts will be for sale from local vendors.

The group is looking to add other events to the market.

“Our goal is to connect with acoustic type music to have live music at the event, and other fun activities,” Hamilton said.

This first market of the season, the local Bourbon County Democrats are serving breakfast/ brunch on Saturday from 8 a.m. – noon.

They will serve fresh coffee or bottled water, fresh fruit, and a choice of fresh-baked coffee cake–all for $5.

“We will deliver in town,” said Carol MacArthur, Bourbon County Democrats chairperson. “For delivery or more information, call 620- 215-1505.”

“We also invite you to bring a lawn chair, if you wish to come, eat, and socialize!” she said.

Teri Hamilton, owner of Hamilton’s Artisan Bakery, is the president of the Fort Scott Farmers Market this year.

Teri Hamilton is the new president of the Fort Scott Farmer’s Market. Submitted photo.

“Melinda Goff has been the president for the last several years and we are transitioning leadership,” Hamilton said.

The cost of booths for vendors is $10 for the first day, which includes $5 registration and $5 booth fee.

“If you sign up for the whole season, its $108 to reserve a spot,” Hamilton said. ‘We welcome any new vendors. We can have 25 percent of the booths selling handmade crafts.”

Returning vendors will be given first priority for spots on the plaza.

Some of the returning vendors are the Hamiltons , Still Waters Farm-Katie and Ethan Holly, the Little Flower Farm-Kelly Richards, Chet and Linda Bower-fresh veggies, Ron and Beverly Brown-farm produce and preserves, Tim Allison-honey, Mrs. Tibbits and Mrs. Hawkins-sellilng crafts, Nickie Kraft-home sewn items, Roger Stumfoll-farm produce and eggs, and others.

There are four new vendors who will be selling baked goods, crafts, live plants and eggs.

A National Avenue stationary pavilion is on the horizon for the Fort Scott Farmer’s Market use in the near future, following a T-Mobile $50,000 grant in 2021.

https://fortscott.biz/news/market-street-pavilion-project-kicks-off

Bourbon County Local News