Business, Government, Kansas

Over 7,000 SPARK Grant Seekers Applied

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces More Than 7,000 Businesses, Nonprofits Have Applied for SPARK Connectivity Grant Funds

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a strong response to the state’s Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Economic Development and Connectivity grant application process, which has yielded more than 7,000 requests for assistance from businesses and nonprofit organizations across Kansas.

 

Of the 7,000-plus grant applications submitted, more than 5,000 were for Small Business Working Capital grant funds. 

 

“The initial response to this application period has been extraordinary,” Governor Kelly said. “We’re ready to give each application the consideration and attention it deserves – and we’ll make sure these funds are deployed in the most effective and strategic way possible to help small businesses, nonprofit organizations and others affected by COVID-19.”

 

More than $138 million in grants to serve businesses and nonprofits affected by the pandemic and for the expansion of broadband access in the state was made available by the SPARK Taskforce established earlier this year by Governor Kelly to lead Kansas forward in recovery from the far-reaching effects of COVID-19.  

 

Connectivity Emergency Response Grant (CERG) applications will be reviewed starting at 2 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 27, when those applications are due. Because of the high volume of applications received, we will no longer accept applications for Small Business Working Capital and PPE Procurement grant programs after 5 p.m. on Monday, Aug. 31. Small Business Working Capital and PPE Procurement grants are reviewed on a rolling basis. 

 

“The response from small businesses across the state has been amazing, and I’m proud to know that so many organizations will benefit from these grants,” Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “I’m so grateful to the organizations across Kansas that helped us amplify this message so quickly. Now, we need to make sure these funds are distributed in a way that benefits all Kansans and ensures that our state can get back to business.”

 

The SPARK Taskforce and Kansas Department of Commerce intend to maintain the Small Business Working Capital, PPE Procurement and Connectivity Emergency Response Grant programs in case additional federal CARES Act funding becomes available.

 

The online application process for several other SPARK grant programs will remain active. Details are available at kansascommerce.gov/covidrelief.

 

Fort Scott, Health Care

CHC Gets UnitedHealthcare Grant

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces $200,000 Empowering Health Grant for the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced a $200,000 Empowering Health Grant from UnitedHealthcare for the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas in Pittsburg. Governor Kelly was joined by Kansas Secretary of Health and Environment Dr. Lee Norman, and State Representative Monica Murnan.

 

“I want to thank the team at UnitedHealthcare for their generosity, which will benefit the Pittsburg community and Southeast Kansas for years to come,” Governor Kelly said. “The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas performs life-saving work in the Pittsburg community. My administration is committed to working with our local and federal partners to provide Kansans access to affordable, quality health care.”

 

“During the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas staff are on the front lines of public health’s response,” Dr. Norman said. “This grant will increase their capacity to improve the health of Kansans.”

 

The Empowering Health grant will be used by the health center to support its Community Health Action Team with a behavioral health nurse and social worker, so it can better address social isolation and behavioral health needs among existing and new patients with low incomes in its service area.

 

“By giving more Kansans access to health insurance, our community partners like Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas would no longer have to cover the cost of care for uninsured individuals,” State Representative Monica Murnan said. “This would free up funds to increase patient care, add new services, extend community outreach, and bolster the local economy.”

 

Governor Kelly said during the ceremony that her administration is committed to supporting local health care organizations across the state by fighting for quality, affordable health care for more than 150,000 Kansans by expanding Medicaid.

 

About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas:

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas has been a pillar in its community since it opened its doors in 1997. Today, over 400 employees care for more than 55,000 patients every year, providing medical, dental, behavioral health, pharmacy, and support services in southeast Kansas.

 

The below photos are available for media use:

 

https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IMG_0904.jpeg

 

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https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IMG_0334.jpg

 

https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IMG_0331.jpg

 

https://governor.kansas.gov/wp-content/uploads/2020/08/IMG_0333.jpg

 

Government, Kansas

KS Virtual Job Fair

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Governor Laura Kelly Announces Fourth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair is Now Open

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced the fourth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair has begun, and will continue through Thursday, August 27.

 

The virtual fair will allow job seekers to easily live chat with employers from across the state through computers and mobile devices. KANSASWORKS has organized four virtual job fairs so far in 2020, with three additional virtual fairs planned later this year.

 

Click here to register for the Virtual Job Fair.

 

“My administration remains committed to providing safe employment opportunities across the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The KANSASWORKS team has developed a creative, intuitive way for businesses and job seekers to find each other. I encourage all job seekers in our state to visit this and future Virtual Job Fairs to find opportunities in their area.”

 

The Department of Commerce moved its statewide job fairs online this year to eliminate public health risks associated with mass gatherings, and as a way to continue to provide job opportunities and maintain a ready workforce for Kansas businesses.

 

“Getting our state back to business is our top priority at Commerce,” Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Our economy is recovering, and there are job opportunities in numerous sectors across Kansas. KANSASWORKS virtual job fairs have provided results to Kansas residents and businesses alike. If you are seeking employment in Kansas, the Virtual Job Fair is the place for you.”

 

The third virtual fair in July was a great success, with participation from 189 employers and 1,182 job seekers from across the state.

 

As concerns for the health and safety of Kansans remain high due to COVID-19, the Department of Commerce will maintain the Virtual Job Fair system for the remainder of 2020. Future statewide events are scheduled for:  

 

  • September 22-24
  • October 27-29
  • December 8-9

 

As these dates get closer, updates will be provided with employer and job-seeker registration links for each individual virtual fair.

Business, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee At Washateria Aug. 27

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The Chamber Coffee will be hosted by
Fort Scott Washateria &
Fort Scott Community Closet
THURSDAY, AUGUST 27TH, 8AM
501 S. NATIONAL AVE.
VISIT THE FORT SCOTT WASHATERIA WEBSITE TO
LEARN ABOUT SERVICES OFFERED!
Chamber Members & Guests are welcome
to make any announcement for $1 to the Chamber about their business or organization including events, new products, promotions, or any other specials!
The Chamber Coffee announcements will be held outside under the canopy and attendees are welcome to tour the business individually.
Masks & social distancing are encouraged.
“UPCOMING CHAMBER COFFEE SCHEDULE”
SEPTEMBER ANNOUNCER: Geoff Southwell
  • 9/3- Open – Call the Chamber to reserve this date at 620-223-3566!
  • 9/10- Open – Call the Chamber to reserve this date at 620-223-3566!
  • 9/17 ~ Common Ground Coffee Shop with Ribbon Cutting & Grand Opening of New Location!
  • 9/24- Open – Call the Chamber to reserve this date at 620-223-3566!
Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Public Servant Profile: Correction Officer Cavin

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Ashley Cavin. Submitted photo.
Ashley Cavin, 30, is a correction officer for the Bourbon County Jail.

She has an associate’s degree in criminal justice from Fort Scott Community College.

Cavin has worked at the jail for almost two years.
What are your duties?
“I protect the inmates, make sure they get their meals, make sure the facility is clean, book them in and release them, transports etc.”
Her family includes her mother, father, a brother and a sister-in-law “with two wonderful babies from them. A niece and nephew,” she said.
Community involvement, interests or hobbies:
“I ride along with the deputies to gain more experience. I would love to be a deputy one day. I am really looking forward to helping everyone and making sure they are safe and get the help they need. I love gaming, playing sports. I love watching sports, I love listening to music, I love hanging out with my family when I am free with not working. I have three beautiful dogs I love to take them on walks. I love spending time with my girlfriend. “
Why did you pursue your career?
“Ever since I was little I’ve always wanted to do something with law enforcement. I hope one day I’ll be able to be a deputy and protect my town to my fullest potential!”
Obituary

Obituary of Camille Parnell

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Camille Lynn Parnell

Camille Lynn Parnell, age 58, a resident of Fort Scott, died Sunday, August 23, 2020 at her home.

She was born July 11, 1962 in Ida Grove, Iowa, the daughter of Ronald Zimmer and Cherrie Clark Zimmer. Camille worked for Mid-Continental Restoration Company. She enjoyed reading, crocheting, and gardening. She loved spending time with her family especially her grandkids.

Camille is survived by her two children, Jimi Huntsman and husband, Garrett, of Peculiar, MO., Zach Parnell and, Cassidy Riley, of Harrisonville, MO.; three grandchildren, Athena Parnell, Collin Huntsman, and Riley Parnell; dad, Wayne Stehr, and wife Nell, of Newcastle, Ok.; three brothers, Chris Zimmer, of South Carolina, Andy Stehr, of Midwest City, OK., Adam Stehr, of Norman, OK., two sisters, Patti Sangster, of Norman, OK., and Karla Brinkley, of Blanchard, OK.

She was preceded in death by her parents and grandparents.

There was cremation. Pastor Michael Apfel will conduct a Memorial Service at 2:30 P.M. Friday, August 28, 2020 at the Trinity Lutheran Church.

Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Business, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Town-Wide Garage Sale Oct. 2-3

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Announces the
Fall2020
Town-wide Garage Sale
October 2nd & 3rd
Businesses ~ now is the time to secure an ad on the upcoming Town-wide Garage Sale Map!
See information below!
We are also now accepting
Garage Sale Listings!
All who register a sale will receive two balloons to display and their physical address printed on the maps distributed at
5 Corner’s, Bids & Dibs, Casey’s, Don’s Smoke Shop and all Pete’s locations!
The Fort Scott Chamber will promote the event on all social platforms, paper, radio & distribute the printed maps.
Register online at the Chamber Website or click HERE to download the registration form & return it to the Chamber with payment of $10 registration fee.
Art, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Community College

The 2020 Gordon Parks Museum to feature Photo Contest

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Contact: Kirk Sharp at 1-800-874-3722, ext. 5850
Email: [email protected]

Fort Scott-The Gordon Parks Museum at Fort Scott Community College, will feature a photo contest sponsored by Merl Humphrey Photography and inspired by Gordon Parks, who was a champion in the fight for social justice and racial equity. His weapon of choice was a camera to fight against racism, discrimination and poverty.

The theme of the contest, “Social Justice, Diversity and Equity” is for any amateur photographer.

Photographers are invited to capture the essence of one of the concepts and share one or two sentences on what inspired the photo.

Non-professional photographers of any age and skill level are invited to take pictures for the project and may enter up to two photos in jpeg format with less than2MB.

There will be a first place ($100), second place ($75) and third place ($50) prize and up to five honorable mentions.

All photos submitted will be on exhibit at The Gordon Parks Museum and in the Ellis Family Fine Arts Center Oct. 8 – 16, 2020. All photos will also be posted on the Gordon Parks Museum website and Facebook page.

Photographs must be submitted via e-mail to [email protected].

All photos must be attached in JPEG format and limit file size to less than 2 MB. All entries will be confirmed via email.

Photographers should submit (in their email) a title, along with their name, address, email, phone number and share a one or two sentence on what inspired the photo.

If under 10 years old please include parent’s information.

Photos should be received via email by Wednesday, September 30, 2020 at the latest.

For more info, click below:

photo contest flyer 2020

 

 

For more information email [email protected] or by phone call 223-2700, ext. 5850.

“Always Choose Family” by Ashton Nolan was1st place winner in the 2019 Photo Contest. The theme was: “My Learning Tree, Life Lessons Learned.”

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting Aug. 26

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Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: August 26, 2020

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

MEETING WILL BE HELD IN COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.

9:30 Special Meeting, Road & Bridge Sales Tax Resolution

9:35 Discussion about future meetings

9:40 Accepting an elected officials resignation

Food, Schools

USD234 News Release of BOE Meeting Aug. 24

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NEWS RELEASE

 

Monday, August 24, 2020

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at the Fort Scott Middle School Commons on Monday, August 24, for a special board meeting at 5:30 p.m.

President David Stewart opened the meeting.  Board members approved the following items:

·       Revised 2020-21 school calendar

·       Memorandum of Understanding between USD 234 Board of Education and Fort Scott Kansas National Education Association

·       Employee COVID-19 Policy

·       Addition of high school and middle school Choral Clubs to the supplemental schedule for the 2020-21 school year

 

Superintendent Hessong shared updated information regarding the Return-to-School

Plan.  Gina Shelton, Business Manager, shared Mask Campaign information.

Board members went into executive session to discuss personnel matters and returned to open meeting.  The board approved the following employment matters:

 

A.    Resignation of Audra Young, Winfield Scott paraprofessional, effective August 10, 2020

B.    Resignation of Jacy Walker, high school paraprofessional, effective immediately

C.    Resignation of Russ Hughes, central office custodian, effective at the end of the 2019-20 school year

D.    Resignation of Libby Stumfoll, van driver, effective September 3, 2020

E.     Transfer of Brent Cavin, Eugene Ware fifth grade teacher, to middle school 8th grade social studies teacher for the 2020-21 school year

F.     Transfer of Jennifer Stafford, Winfield Scott paraprofessional, to high school teacher aide for the 2020-21 school year

G.    Transfer of Dee Peters, Eugene Ware paraprofessional, to Winfield Scott paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

H.    Leave of absence for Sabrina Keating, Eugene Ware fourth grade teacher

I.      Work agreement adjustment for Angela Mix, Winfield Scott paraprofessional, from 7.5 hours to 4 hours per day for the 2020-21 school year

J.      Employment of Brendon Blackburn as a one-year middle school elective teacher for the 2020-21 school year

K.    Employment of Cindy O’Rear as a high school paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

L.     Employment of Kourtney Harper as a high school paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

M.   Employment of Mary Cole as a high school paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

N.    Employment of Julie Carpenter as a high school paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

O.    Employment of Jannah Farrington as the middle school Choral Club sponsor for the 2020-21 school year

P.     Employment of Brenda Hill as Eugene Ware 5th Grade Team Leader for the 2020-21 school year

Q.    Employment of Randy Phillips as a regular route bus driver for the 2020-21 school year

R.    Resignation of Taylor McDermed, Eugene Ware paraprofessional, effective August 24, 2020

S.     Leave of absence for Brenda Hathaway, high school ticket clerk

T.     Employment of Maggie Johnston as a high school paraprofessional for the 2020-21 school year

 

The board adjourned.

 

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

Presbyterian Village All Clear For COVID-19

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Fort Scott Presbyterian Manor says all clear
following additional testing for COVID-19

FORT SCOTT, Kan. – Fort Scott Presbyterian Manor has good news to share following a second wave of testing for COVID-19 at the community. All residents and employees have tested negative for the virus.

“We’re glad to have this round of testing behind us and we’ll keep our focus on resident and employee safety,” said Jeanne Gerstenkorn, PMMA’s infection preventionist and vice president for health and wellness.

Because all residents and employees tested negative for the virus, the Bourbon County Health Department is not recommending further testing at the community at this time.

The residents and employees who tested positive for the virus earlier this month will remain in isolation until cleared to return to work by the Health Department. Per CDC guidelines, team members may return to work once they have been symptom free for 72 hours without the aid of a fever reducer and demonstrate improvement in respiratory symptoms, and at least 10 days have passed since symptoms first appeared. Upon their return to work, we will follow CDC recommendations related to work practices and restrictions.

Presbyterian Manor implemented a strict no visitor policy at the community and discontinued group activities and communal dining for the entire campus per guidelines released by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) and the CDC on March 13.

All employees are encouraged to follow CDC guidelines and best practices as these are continually updated. The community regularly reinforces with all staff that an employee should not report to work if he or she is experiencing symptoms of a respiratory illness or not feeling well.

For more information about Fort Scott Presbyterian Manor’s response, go to PMMA’s (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s) website, Presbyterianmanors.org/Media- room.

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Bourbon County Local News