Bourbon County, K-State Extension

2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School in Bronson May 5-6

Leave a comment
Chad . His email is [email protected]
District Extension Agent, Crop production and Forage Management
Submitted photo.

 

The Southwind Extension District, in partnership with the Kansas Forage and Grassland Council and the Natural Resource Conservation Service, is hosting the 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School in Bronson, Kansas on May 5 and 6.

The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing School will be two-day workshop for beginning and experienced grazers, focusing on management-intensive grazing (MiG). MiG is a flexible approach to using a rotational grazing system where paddock size, stocking density, and grazing timing is adjusted based on available forage. Attendees will learn how MiG could benefit their operation, and how to implement MiG to their farm.

Day 1 topics will focus on agronomic principles to maintain healthy pastures using MiG. Attendees will learn how to correctly calculate stocking rates, how to match animal needs to available forages, and how to properly manage their grass pastures.

Day 2 topics will focus on using modern technology to build the infrastructure needed to practice MiG. Attendees will learn how to build and use electric fence, how to implement and manage water resources, and will get a glimpse of how using E-collars on grazing cattle could work in Southeast Kansas.

The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing Schools will focus on sound grazing practices that can be implemented into any grazing operation, regardless if rotational grazing is being practiced. The program will focus on grazing cattle, but practices can be easily adjusted for any grazing animal.

Register now! The 2023 Eastern Kansas Grazing Schools is limited to 35 farms/location. To register, contact the Southwind Extension District at 620-223-3720, or check out our website at www.southwind.k-state.edu/agriculture and click on the “Events” tab.

 

 

K-State Extension

Protect Yourself Against Current Scams

Leave a comment
Tara Soloman-Smith, Family and Wellness Agent, Sunflower District of Kansas State University’s Extension Office. Submitted photo.

 

Anyone can fall victim to a scam and many have.  We all need reminders now and then on how to detect and react to questionable inquiries.  There are a few items of concern I’d like to make you aware of and provide general reminders on how to protect yourself.

 

Please be aware of the following current events:

Letter offering millions of unclaimed life insurance policy

Letters circulating in Kansas claim to be from an attorney with law firms located in Canada, and state there are millions of dollars in an unclaimed life insurance policy available. The sender asks the recipient to partner with them to claim these monies.

This is a scam.  There are legitimate ways to check for both a life insurance policy benefit and unclaimed property through valid sources. Kansans can locate a life insurance policy using the National Association of Insurance Commissioners’ Life Insurance Policy Locator at eapps.naic.org/life-policy-locator. To check for unclaimed property in your or a loved one’s name, visit the Treasurer’s Unclaimed Property division at kansascash.ks.gov/up_main.html or call 785-296-4165.

 

Plastic Medicare Card Marketing

A company called Platinum Marketing & Design is offering plastic cards for a fee.  Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) advises to be aware and guard your Medicare card and number like a credit card! Don’t share your number, laminate it, make copies, or let anyone else make a copy. If you need an official replacement card, you can print or order one at Medicare.gov or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227).

 

Flex Card Scam

Some Medicare Advantage (not Original Medicare) plans offer prepaid debit cards, also known as flex cards, to eligible members to cover some health-related expenses, which may include groceries.  False advertisements claim that Medicare is giving out flex cards containing several hundred dollars to apply toward food and other items.  It involves someone impersonating a Medicare representative who tries to encourage you to purchase a Medicare flex card.

The scam directs people to a website, where they’re asked to provide personal information that can be stolen, such as a Social Security number, credit card number, or bank account information.

 

 

The Federal Trade Commission Provides These Four Signs that It’s a Scam

  • Scammers pretend to be from an organization you know
  • Scammers say there is a problem or a prize
  • Scammers pressure you to act immediately
  • and Scammers toll you to pay in a specific way

 

Trust your gut.  Always trust your gut.  If you feel uncomfortable or are unsure, get yourself out of the situation or ask for help from a trusted family member or friend.  For more information, contact Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], or by calling 620-244-3826.

 

# # #

Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer. Issued in furtherance of Cooperative Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture, Director of K-State Research and Extension, Kansas State University, County Extension Councils, Extension Districts.

Government, Health Care, Kansas

Air Quality Advisory Issued for the Flint Hill Region

Leave a comment

Air Quality Advisory Issued for Parts of the Flint Hill Region Due to Seasonal Burning

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is issuing an air quality advisory for the Flint Hill region, through Manhattan toward Nebraska.

KDHE activated the Kansas smoke modeling tool on March 1, prior to widespread burning in the Flint Hills. The computer models use fire data and current weather conditions to predict the potential contribution of smoke to downwind air quality problems.

Modeling has predicted conditions will worsen because of existing smoke combined with weather inversion patterns starting at 10 p.m. – 10 a.m. with a brief reprieve possible between noon and 5 p.m. and may continue for several days. The advisory took effect on April 7 for central and north-central counties in Kansas due to smoke from the Flint Hill seasonal burning between Topeka, Manhattan, and Salina, Kansas. When human health impacts are reduced, KDHE will rescind the advisory.

KDHE reminds Kansans that March and April are when large areas of the state’s rangelands are burned, especially within the Flint Hills. These burns help preserve the tallgrass prairie ecosystem, control invasive species, reduce woody encroachment from species such as Eastern Red Cedar, and provide better forage for cattle. Prescribed burning also reduces the risk of wildfires and effectively manages rangeland resources. Smoke from the burns can influence the air quality of downwind areas.

Smoke management techniques are vital to reduce air quality and health impacts for the most vulnerable individuals, including those with respiratory issues, pre-existing heart or lung diseases, children, and the elderly.

“Because air quality levels can change quickly, we are asking people to remain vigilant,” Doug Watson, meteorologist, said. “Prescribed burns release large amounts of particulate matter and other pollutants that can form ozone. Particulate matter and ozone can cause health problems, even in healthy individuals.”

Common health problems include burning eyes, runny nose, coughing, and illnesses such as bronchitis.

If individuals live or have activities near these areas, they can take these steps to protect themselves when smoke is present:

  • Healthy people should limit or avoid strenuous outdoor exercise.
  • More vulnerable people should remain indoors.
  • Help keep indoor air clean by closing doors and windows and running air conditioners with air filters.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking lots of water.
  • Contact their doctor for symptoms such as chest pain, chest tightness, shortness of breath, or severe fatigue.

For more information about the burning in the Flint Hills, the Flint Hills Smoke Management Plan, April burn restrictions, and the smoke modeling tool, please visit http://ksfire.org.

Obituary

Obituary of John Page

Leave a comment

John William Page, age 71, resident of Fort Scott, KS, died Friday, April 7, 2023, at his home.  He was born April 27, 1951, in Fort Scott, the son of Chris and Clara Chaplin Page.  Following high school, John served in the U. S. Navy.  He married Erlinda Llanita on April 16, 1973, in the Philippines.  John worked most of his life as a diesel mechanic in the farming industry.  He enjoyed riding and breaking horses, fishing, mechanical and bulldozing work, and anything outdoors.  He loved spending time with his family, especially the grandchildren.  He was a great husband, father, and grandfather.

 

Survivors include his wife Erlinda of the home; 2 daughters, Christan Page (Gage Brooks), Fort Scott, and Joy Kuns (Robert) Bronson, KS; 6 grandchildren, Ashton Anderson, Jazlynne Anderson, Haddlen Brooks, Madalynn Brooks, Avery Kuns, and Adeline Kuns; and 3 brothers, Carl Joe Page (Vicky), Jerry Lee Page (Leanna), and Gary Ray Page.

He was preceded in death by his father.

 

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Wednesday, April 12th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Hepler Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time Wednesday at the funeral home

.  Memorials are suggested to the John Page 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 to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 

 

Obituary

Obituary of Richard Nation

1 Comment

 

Richard L. “Rick” Nation, age 54, resident of Fort Scott, Kansas died Wednesday April 5, 2023, at Menorah Medical Center, Overland Park, Kansas after a lengthy battle with cancer. Rick was born in Fort Scott, Kansas to LD and Ruth Nation. He attended grade school at Mound City and Miami R-1 and graduated from Jayhawk Linn in 1987. He married Lisa Weddle in Las Vegas, Nevada on April 7th, 1997. Rick was an owner/operator of his dump truck for 15 years and then went to work for Union Pacific Railroad until the time of his passing. He was a man of many talents and could build anything from the ground up. We were truly blessed with a wonderful man that gave us the world.

 

Survivors of the home are wife Lisa, daughters Isabella, and Leah, and best furry companion Annie; parents LD and Ruth Nation, Butler Missouri; brothers Brent (Billie) of Hereford, Texas, Craig (Nikki) of Rich Hill, Missouri; sister Brenda (Travis) Anders of Adrian, Missouri; a daughter Kayla Poole, Pleasanton, Kansas; mother-in-law, Shirley (Tim) Goltra, father-in-Law, Ray (Connie) Weddle; bonus brother Steven (Stana) Weddle; sister and brother in-law Tessa (Adam) Feagins all of Fort Scott, Kansas. Also surviving are many nieces, nephews, cousins, and numerous friends. He was preceded in death by paternal grandparents Les and Dorothy Nation, maternal grandparents Edward and Margaret Higgins, and brother in-law Larry Lee Shirley.

 

Rev. Paul Rooks will conduct funeral services at 1:00 PM Tuesday, April 11th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Linnville Cemetery, Mound City, KS.  The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 Monday evening at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Nation Children’s Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County, Business, Clothing, Fort Scott

ViCon Creations, A Three Generations Business

2 Comments
Connie McKee, Devlin Cole and Vicki Waldron in the ViCom Creations building on Maple Road, west of Fort Scott.

Connie McKee and her daughter, Vicki Waldron started a business together in 1996 called ViCon Creations LLC, and have done a variety of handiwork.

“We started with alterations (making clothes fit, that don’t fit),  then moved into interior decorations…awnings, horse stuff,” Waldron said. “A lady asked us to manufacture bra liners for Pam’s Bra’s. We worked about 10 years on that.”

They still do alterations, as noted on their Facebook page, which is a valuable service during prom and wedding season.

She does work for J & W Sports and Twister Trailers as well.

For the last seven years, Waldron has worked at Common Ground Coffee Shop in Fort Scott.

“I decided I’m done standing on my feet,” she said. “I decided to expand my sewing business.”

In August 2022 she started to revamp her sewing business.

Vicki Waldron shows one of her women’s fishing vest creations.

She creates purses, women’s fishing vests, and does machine quilting.

“Most people will make quilt tops, but need them quilted,” she said.

This year her granddaughter Erin Camp started making t-shirt quilts.

“She is paying off her college tuition (Northwest Missouri State) by making quilts. She makes the quilt tops and I bind and quilt it,” Waldron said.

Another granddaughter, Lauren Schalk, makes jewelry: Western style earrings, bracelets and necklaces. Schalk is attending Oklahoma State University. She is working with her grandmother for this business venture.

These two granddaughters are her information technology help, she said.

Her mother, Connie McKee makes toddler girl’s clothing.

“Mom comes in when she wants to work,” she said. McKee is retired.

Vickie Waldron shows toddler girls clothing that her mother Connie McKee makes.

What ever they make, they put online at www.viconcreations.com

Vicki prepares to attach an achievement badge to a letter jacket.
Vicki shows one of the purses the business makes.
Connie McKee works on a leather apron for her grandson, Devlin Cole.

A grandson, Devlin Cole, has shown an interest in creating leather items, she said

On the horizon for ViCon Creations is building a new work building to replace the remodeled chicken house the current business is located in.

She would like to teach sewing to young girls in the future, and “how to cook good meals,” she said.

“If young women come out here and learn to sew, I’ll give them a job,” she said.

Contact Waldron at 417.214.2599.

Government, Kansas

Proposed Regulations for Retail Food Establishments Hearing is April 17

Leave a comment
A public hearing will be conducted at 1:00 p.m. on Monday, April 17, 2023, to consider the adoption of proposed revisions to the regulatory requirements for retail food establishments. The hearing will be held in person at the Kansas Department of Agriculture at 1320 Research Park Dr. in Manhattan, as well as via video conferencing system.

KDA is proposing revisions to K.A.R. 4-28-8 to update the regulatory requirements for retail food establishments contained in the Kansas Food Code. The Kansas Food Code sets food safety standards for Kansas retail food establishments, and the current regulatory requirements have not been updated since 2012. These proposed regulatory revisions are based on the Model Food Code currently used by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, which was adopted in 2017.

The proposed revisions include amendments to several sections of the Kansas Food Code. These changes will provide some clarity to food safety requirements and enhance safety practices in retail food establishments. They will also provide uniformity between the requirements imposed on retail food establishments in Kansas and other states.

KDA uses the public hearing and comment process to improve decisions, and appreciates public participation in the process. A copy of the updated Kansas Food Code, the expanded notice of public hearing (including a brief overview of the substantive revisions), and the economic impact statement may be accessed on the KDA website at agriculture.ks.gov/PublicComment. Anyone desiring to participate via video conference must pre-register at that page to be provided with a video link. Written comments can be submitted on the public comment web page prior to the hearing or sent to the Kansas Department of Agriculture, 1320 Research Park Dr., Manhattan, KS 66502.

Any individual with a disability may request accommodation in order to participate in the public hearing and may request a copy of the regulation in an accessible format. Persons who require special accommodations must make their needs known at least two working days prior to the hearing. For more information, including special accommodations or a copy of the regulation, please contact Ronda Hutton at 785-564-6715 or [email protected].

###

Hearing for Proposed Revisions to Kansas Food Code.pdf
Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott

Leave a comment

What’s Happening in Fort Scott!

April 7th Weekly Newsletter

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Daily Tours: 10am & 1pm

Trolley Tours of Fort Scott

50-minute narrated historical tour

Every Friday & Saturday on the hour

Fridays 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

Saturdays 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

$6 adults, $4 12 & under, leaves from the Chamber

Click this link: The Artificers

Upcoming pottery class/workshop

schedule, something for all ages!

Click here for all the FUN activities at the

Museum of Creativity, something for all ages!

April Specials at Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore, Buy 2 Get 1 Free on any Poetry, Classics,

and Performing Arts.

4/7-8 ~ Thespian Rummage Sale at FSHS, enter school through the northwest doors and go to the auditorium stage, name your price, also accepting donations, Friday 8am-5pm and Saturday 8am-noon, click here for more info.

4/8 ~ First Friday at The Artificers, 8 N. National Ave., open until 9pm, stop in for some conversation and collection of artists.

4/8 ~ Floral Easter Basket Class at Sunshine Boutique, $25/person

4/9 ~ Easter at Flag Fort Scott, they will have powerful worship, encouraging word, and serve communion together, 9am, click here for more info.

4/9 ~ Happy Easter from the Fort Scott Area of Chamber of Commerce!

4/10 ~ Marvelous Monday Homeschool: Downtown Walking History Tour, start at the Fort Scott Public Library and walk through the Downtown Historic District learning the history,

3-4:15pm, click here for more info.

4/12 ~ Meet & Greet Olympian Hero Billy Mills at Ellis Family Fine Arts Center, Free Admission, 12-1pm, click here for more info.

4/12 ~ Reception at Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes for Billy Mills, they will be playing his amazing race on the big screen, 2pm

4/13 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by The Artificers,

8 N. National Ave, 8am, featuring the FSHS Orchestra!

4/13 ~ JOB FAIR hosted by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, 3-6pm, click here to register for an employer booth.

4/14 ~ Jill Williams Master Artist and Kadra Nevitt Guest Artist Opening Reception at The Artificers, 6-9pm, click here for more info.

4/14 ~ Live music presented by Rick Hite at Common Ground Coffee Co., 6:30pm,

click here for more info.

4/15 ~ Spring Off Road 101 Course, $65 per vehicle, bring your own lunch, 9am-5pm,

click here for more info.

4/15 ~ Live music presented by Braydon Watts & Brody Mckinney at Pizza Republic, drink specials and pizza by the slice, benefiting Farmer Veteran Coalition, cover $5. Click here for more info!

4/15 ~ America’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist Greg Morton Comedy Show, Memorial Hall, 7-10pm, click here for tickets!

4/15 ~ VFW 8 Ball Pool Tournament, Every 3rd Saturday of each month, Registration will begin at 11:00 AM, Calcutta at 12:00 Noon,

1745 S. National Ave, click here for more info.

4/15-16 ~ Civil War Encampment at Fort Scott National Historic Site National Park, this event is free and open to the public, 9am-5pm, click here for more info.

4/16 ~ Benefit Bull Team & Futurity, Bull Team Fees $1250 Fees/$1250 added Riders, Futurity Fees: $400 fees yearling/$300 fees, BJ Cattle Ranch 1353 195th St., for more information contact 573-259-1420

4/20 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by Bourbon County Conservation, 1515 S. Judson, 8am

4/20 ~ Chamber Annual Dinner & Awards Celebration, individual reservations $40 and a table of 8 $360, email or call the Chamber to make a reservation, sponsorship, and/or donation,

|click here for more info.

4/22 ~ Frankie Durossette Care to Share Benefit, 4-H Building, car,/truck/bike show, cornhole, rifle raffle, dinner, silent auction, Sharky’s Pop-Up Bar, 10:30am, click here for more info.

4/22-23 ~ Kansas National Interscholastic Bike Race, Gunn Park Trails, contact Frank Halsey for more info.

Save the Date!

4/26 ~ Women’s Appreciation Luncheon at FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center, $5/per person,

11am-1:30pm, click here for more info.

4/29 ~ Fort Scott Mud Run, Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 2102 S. Huntington, Two pits, a 24′ mud bog and a 12′ fun pit, plus a kids mud pool, concessions, and more. Click here for more info.

5/23 ~ Spring into Summer Self-Care Fair hosted by Southeast Kansas Mental Health at Fort Scott Middle School, 5-8pm, SEKMHC is NOW requesting Vendors for this event, register here for a FREE booth.

_________

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

Don’t Be A Fool, shop at

Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore!

April Special at Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore!

Job Fair hosted by the Chamber

April 13th, 3-6pm, employers register here!

America’s Got Talent Semi-Finalist Greg Morton!

Click here for tickets!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Annual Dinner and Awards Celebration!

Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center is NOW requesting vendors for their Self-Care Fair!

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema
…

[Message clipped]  View entire message

Government

Electric Vehicle Charging Infrastructure Projects Funds Available

Leave a comment

KDOT announces Call for Projects for EV infrastructure
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Transportation announces a Call for Projects for Electric Vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure projects in advance of applications being accepted for these projects across the state.

An estimated $14 million in National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) Formula funds are available to award for DC fast charging projects along federally designated EV Charging Corridors in Kansas. Additional funding also will be available to support community charging and other EV charging projects. All awarded projects will be required to meet a minimum 20% local cash match.

A Call for Projects first requires a project concept form be submitted to KDOT before the application process begins.

“This allows KDOT to provide feedback on eligibility and direct project sponsors to potential funding opportunities for the proposed project,” said Tami Alexander, KDOT Transportation Electrification Manager. “Evaluation and feedback on project concepts allows sponsors to submit stronger applications and be more competitive in the process.”

KDOT will utilize various federal funding opportunities to support EV Charging Infrastructure Projects across the state. Projects could include direct current (DC) fast charging along state highways, community charging or other public EV charging projects.

A link to the Charge Up Kansas page on KDOT’s IKE website and the project concept form, along with important dates in the application process are below –

  • Call for Projects
  • Kansas EV charging Call for Projects webinars
    • Thursday, April 13, at 2 p.m. (CDT)
    • Friday, April 14, at 10 a.m. (CDT)
  • Deadline to email project concept forms – Friday, May 5
  • Project concept forms will be reviewed in May and June
  • Applications emailed from KDOT to approved sponsors – Monday, June 5
  • Application deadline – Friday, July 21
  • Applications reviewed – July and August
  • EV awards announced – September

For more information, please contact [email protected].
Bourbon County

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Meeting Minutes,   April 5, 2023  

Leave a comment
The Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition met Aug. 7 with Board President Billie Jo Drake leading the meeting.

 

 

  1. Welcome:  Billie Jo welcomed seventeen members representing twelve agencies.  She noted that the applications for the Family Swim Passes to the Fort Scott Aquatic Center were now available at Buck Run and The Beacon.   Applications must be completed and returned to Buck Run by April 28.  She also recognized Key Charitable Trust for their continued support of the Coalition Board’s projects.

 

  1. Member Introductions and Announcements:
  • Lea Kay Karleskint, K-State Research: Eating Smart and Saving More class will start in Bronson, Kansas, on April 20; the class will be held at 4:00 p.m. on Thursdays through May 11 at the Bronson Community Building.
  • Dawn, Cubbison, Aetna Better Health of Kansas: Reminded members that Medicaid redetermination packets will be mailed later this month and stressed that clients need to make sure their contact information is correct.  Dawn can also present programs on the benefits and programs available through Medicaid.
  • Elizabeth Schafer, Pioneer Kiwanis and CASA: CASA will be starting a six-week program to train new CASA volunteers; contact Elizabeth for further information; CASA needs more volunteers!
  • Janelle Tate, Early Childhood Block Grant: Spring Fling at the FSPSC will be tomorrow, April 6, 5:30 – 7:00.  All preschools and several childcare providers will be in attendance.
  • Kaytlyn Hazen, Career Navigator with DCF: Helps with work programs and employment.
  • Christine Abbott, SEK Works: Reminded members about the virtual job-fair on the Kansas Works website and introduced John Willey who is the75% youth, 25% adult advisor in the Chanute office.  Christine and John reported that there were eighty venders at the FSHS job fair this morning.  She also reminded members that the office in Fort Scott is open five days each week; Christine is in the Fort Scott office two days each week.  They will soon be piloting Workshop Wednesdays which will feature fifteen minute prerecorded workshops.  Christine is always looking for 16-24 year old clients to help them with GED and supportive services.
  • Tammy Alcantor, Crawford County Health Department: Continuing to do Baby and Me Tobacco Free and Teen Pregnancy classes at the Health Department or wherever the client feels most comfortable.
  • Kelli Mengarelli, Early Childhood Block Grant: Kelli’s main focus is on providing quality childcare for working parents.
  • Shanna Willy, CHC Community Health worker: Connects clients/patients with resources in the community.  She can also help with the Medicaid recertifications.
  • Amy Hagan, Family Resource Specialist, CHC: Amy introduced Megan Smith, also with CHC.  While Amy’s focus is on out-clinic addictions, Megan will be focused on in-clinic situations.  Amy also shared that they recently returned from a state conference and will be working on some grant opportunities.  Amy is also car seat certified.    Challenges with her programs are transportation, child care, and overcoming trust issues.  Child care is a problem that our community needs to tackle.  Grant allows Amy to work with more people.  CHC will be in the new building on April 17.
  • Maggie Young: CHC, Tobacco Cessation Grant:  Maggie is willing to volunteer with any organization or agency in order to learn about our Fort Scott community so she can effectively help people overcome tobacco addictions.
  • Melanie Wiles, Gentiva Hospice of Cherokee, Bourbon, Linn, and Crawford counties: Melanie is willing to present programs to educate people on the nuances of hospice care.  The Crawford County resource fair is Friday, April 7 in Pittsburg.  She plans to do other resource fairs in Fort Scott and Riverton in the near future.
  • Dee Dee LeFever, Early learning services through Greenbush: Resource for any question or concern about children birth to five.  The Bourbon County Early Childhood Coalition will be meeting this Friday.
  • Sandy Haggard, RSVP: Sandy was unable to attend in person but wanted members to know about volunteer opportunities at the next Red Cross bloodmobile on April 19 and 20; contact Sandy to sign up for a two-hour shift.
  • Patty Simpson, Fort Scott Housing Authority: Sent word that they continue to take applications but are completely full and have waiting list for all size units at this time.

 

  1. Program: Carson Felt and members of the USD 234 Orchestra: Felt and ten students from the Fort Scott High School Orchestra entertained the members with various selections.  The May program will be presented by COPE, LHEAT, and SEK-CAP; they will be discussing a transportation program in Bourbon County.  Dawn Cubbison will explain KanCare/Medicaid for our June program.

 

  1. Open Forum: Nothing further came before the membership.

 

  1. Adjournment:  Next General Membership meeting will be May 3, at 1:00 p.m.
Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Agenda for April 11

Leave a comment

04-23 Informational Items

2023 Financials – March

CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by _____________________________

ROLL CALL: 

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

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

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

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of March 14, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
  2. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

Broken rock post in park

 

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

 

 

Clerk Report:  Sally Johnson  

Resignation of Ginger Ervin

Municipal Services 2023 Budget Workshop

Grants

 

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 ___________

Bourbon County, Government

Uniontown City Council Minutes of March 14

Leave a comment

The Regular Council Meeting on March 14, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:10PM by Mayor Jurgensen due to lack of quorum until then.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman (7:49), and Brad Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Danny and Linda Nation (4 State Sanitation), Jason Thompson and Josh Beck (Green Environmental Services), Mary Pemberton, Matt Quick (Bourbon County Appraiser), City Attorney Chase Vaughn, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Public Hearing for Citywide trash service – City Attorney Vaughn explained that this hearing was to select a vendor.  A proposal was presented by 4 State Sanitation and Green Environmental Services.  Review of proposals and discussion ensued.

 

Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-1 (Ervin) to accept Green Environmental Services as the vendor to develop citywide trash service

 

Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program, Matt Quick explained the changes to the program effective January 1, 2023 and the City needs to sign a new interlocal agreement to continue participating in the program.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to authorize Mayor to sign Interlocal Agreement to participate in the Bourbon County Neighborhood Revitalization Program effective, retroactively, January 1, 2023.

 

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Mary Pemberton asked if the Ruritan could have permission to use temporary sidewalk chalk paint on sidewalks in park for summer events and to install a couple permanent tether ball poles near the basketball court.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to allow use of temporary sidewalk chalk paint and install tether ball poles in park

 

She also would like to have a mural painted on the side of their building at 103 Third St.  A grant is available through the Kansas Department of Commerce but would require the city or a 501c3 non-profit to sponsor the grant.  She is asking for the City to sponsor the grant.  She would fill out the application and submit and do all paperwork for the project.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0 to sponsor the Kansas Department of Commerce grant application for a mural project at 103 Third St with Mary Pemberton assisting Clerk Johnson with paperwork

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the February 2023 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $372,900.60, Receipts $52,647.39, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $62,804.62, Checking Account Closing Balance $349,967.37. Bank Statement Balance $361,106.48, including Checking Account Interest of $71.94, Outstanding Deposits $997.19, Outstanding Checks $12,136.30, Reconciled Balance $349,967.37.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,218.20, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,841.76, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,494.13, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $436,521.46. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $149.28, and Utility CDs $153.11 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $302.39.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of February 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  February Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500; for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of February $22,933.23, Year-to-Date Net Income $6,415.40.  Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $34,307.86 (21.9%), Expenditures $36,475.15 (16.2%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $5,771.49 (15.7%), Expenditures $4,272.23 (10.4%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $18,906.33 (15.5%), Expenditures $20,506.69 (12.8%); General Fund YTD Revenue $46,670.92 (31.2%), Expenditures $28,433.11 (15.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $2,093.98 (28.1%), Expenditures $0 (0%).  The March 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $58,768.71 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of February 14, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich asked if he should seed the area around the new public restroom.  Council said yes

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported an accessory building permit application was received and approved.  Certified letters were sent to 404 Washington, 202 Fourth, and 308 Union.  One of the letters was not claimed but they have started on compliance.  He will follow-up on the one that has not responded.  There was discussion on other properties that need attention for debris, brush piles, etc.  He will make contact with those property owners.  He will write up something for the newsletter.

 

Clerk Johnson asked the Council to consider implementing a succession plan for City Superintendent and City Clerk positions.  Both will be retiring in the next few years.  She also requested they consider new software for fund accounting and utility billing that will be compatible with auto read meters and a link on the website to pay online.  They will have those discussions at the budget worksession in a couple months.

2023-2024 Insurance renewal quote was presented.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to accept the 2023-2024 EMC insurance renewal quote of $17,513 and add the public restroom to the property coverage

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

School Pond Project – Don George was here and picked up the final paperwork for submission.  It has been submitted and we received an email that it was being processed for payment.  Project came in under budget and the amount from KDWPT will be the percentage requested, not the dollar amount of the original application.

 

Placemaking Project – Clerk Johnson asked if members filled out the community perception survey which is a component of the grant requirements from Healthy Bourbon County Action Team.  Mayor Jurgensen is still working on convening a committee to recommend exercise equipment.

 

American Rescue Plan Act update – the bathroom upgrade is finished and came in under budget.  We expended $19,135 of the $40,288.82 of the ARPA funds and the $5,000 grant from Bourbon County REDI.  Clerk Johnson would like the can lighting added to the Clerk’s office and Mayor Jurgensen would like mini blinds on the west windows of the community center.  The remaining $21,153.82 will be discussed at budget worksession.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to give Clerk permission to have can lighting installed in Clerk’s office and get mini blinds for the west windows of the Community Center

 

KMGA/MMGA Prepay project – legal counsel has approved the ordinance to authorize participation and the participation agreement.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0 to adopt Ordinance No. 200 an Ordinance authorizing execution of the Natural Gas Prepay Participation Agreement with the Kansas Municipal Gas Agency and all other necessary documents with respect thereto and providing for the pledge of the revenues of the natural gas utility system of the city to secure such agreement and authorize the Mayor to sign documents

 

NEW BUSINESS

None

 

Mayor Jurgensen started a discussion on street repair planning for this year.  He will gather and bring more information on milling and asphalt to the next meeting

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 9:32PM

Bourbon County Local News