Fort Scott

Feb. 17 City Commission Agenda Summary

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Fort Scott City Hall.

2-17-2026 Agenda

City Commission Meeting Agenda – February 17, 2026

Meeting Overview

  • Date: February 17, 2026

  • Time: 6:00 PM

  • Location: City Hall Commission Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS

Agenda Outline

  • Call to Order (Page 1)

  • Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation (Page 1)

  • Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

  • Consent Agenda (Page 1)

    • Appropriation Ordinance 1402-A ($363,090.91)

    • Approval of February 3, 2026 Minutes

    • January Financials

    • Payment to Earles Engineering & Inspection LLC ($20,700.00)

  • Public Comment (Page 1)

  • Appearances (Page 1)

    • Land Bank End of Year Report & Resolution No. 12-2026

    • 922 E. Wall Update

  • Unfinished Business (Page 1)

    • Status of 121 S. Margrave

  • New Business: Action Items (Page 1-2)

    • Milling Machine purchase

    • Golf Tournament Daily Maximum Fee increase

    • Certificate of Appropriateness: 5 E. Wall

    • Abatement Process: 523 Heylman

    • 911 Communication Dispatch MOU

    • Ordinance No. 3793 Changes (Public Offense Code)

  • Reports and Comments (Page 2)

  • Adjournment (Page 2)

Detailed Agenda Information

Consent Agenda & Financials

The commission will consider the approval of expenditures totaling $363,090.91 for the period of January 31 through February 12, 2026. Also included is a request to pay $20,700.00 to Earles Engineering & Inspection LLC for preliminary 80% work on the East National Project Phase I. (Page 1)

Appearances & Reports

Land Bank & Blight Mitigation: Lisa Dillon will present the Land Bank End of Year Report. The commission will also consider Resolution No. 12-2026, which would authorize the Land Bank to engage in blight mitigation activities specifically for areas in close proximity to properties already owned by the Land Bank. (Page 1)

Property Updates: Garrett Knight is scheduled to provide an update regarding the property at 922 E. Wall, and the commission will review the ongoing status of 121 S. Margrave under Unfinished Business. (Page 1)

Action Items

Equipment & Fees: The commission will evaluate the purchase of a new milling machine and a proposal to increase the maximum daily fee for golf tournaments at the city course. (Page 1)

Codes & Historic Preservation: * 5 E. Wall: Consideration of a Certificate of Appropriateness for a metal sign for The Reynolds Law Firm, P.A., which received approval from the Design Review Board on February 10th. (Page 1)

  • 523 Heylman: Consideration to officially begin the abatement process for this property. (Page 1)

Public Safety & Ordinances:

  • 911 Dispatch: Discussion regarding a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for 911 Communication Dispatch services. (Page 1)

  • Ordinance No. 3793: Mayor Salsbury will present changes to this ordinance, which regulates public offenses. The update incorporates the 41st Edition of the Uniform Public Offense Code for Kansas Cities and repeals the previous Ordinance No. 3749. (Page 1-2)

Fort Scott

City Commission Meeting Summary, Feb. 3, 2026

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Fort Scott City Hall.

City Commission Meeting Summary – February 3, 2026

Meeting Overview

  • Date: February 3, 2026

  • Time: 6:00 PM

  • Location: City Commission Meeting Room, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS

  • Attendance: Mayor Kathryn Salsbury; Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, and Julie Buchta.

Agenda Outline

  • Call to Order & Roll Call (Page 1)

  • Pledge of Allegiance & Prayer (Page 1)

  • Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

  • Consent Agenda (Page 1)

    • Appropriation Ordinance 1401-A ($420,842.25)

    • Approval of Minutes from January 20, 2026

  • Public Comment (Page 1)

  • Appearances (Page 1)

    • IT Update – Stephen Mitchell

  • Unfinished Business (Page 1)

    • Status of 602 S. Barbee

  • New Business & Public Hearings (Page 1-2)

    • 310 N. Cleveland (Resolution No. 9-2026)

    • 601 S. Little (Resolution No. 10-2026)

  • Action Items (Page 2-3)

    • 18 S. Holbrook Status Update

    • Bid Approval: 2026 Cape Seal Project

    • Discussion: City Lake Properties

    • Discussion: Contractor Licensing

    • Discussion: Horton Street Condition

  • Reports and Comments (Page 3)

  • Executive Session (Page 3)

  • Adjournment (Page 3)

Detailed Meeting Summary

Public Comments & Appearances

Housing Grant & Public Hearing: Lisa Dillon requested a special meeting/public hearing for February 13, 2026, regarding a CDBG grant for a Housing Rehabilitation Program. (Page 1)

Traffic & Utilities: Kevin Allen raised concerns regarding idle trains blocking traffic and requested that water leak bill relief be extended to rural water customers, as it currently only applies to city residents. (Page 1)

IT Infrastructure Update: Stephen Mitchell reported that the dispatch move is complete and equipment inventory is 98% finished. Future priorities include the Water Plant and establishing a long-term upgrade schedule (1, 3, and 5 years). (Page 1)

Property & Structure Reviews

310 N. Cleveland: The owner, Mr. Peterson, requested the city not demolish the structure. He admitted to living there without utilities and stopping repairs due to weather

601 S. Little: Following a fire, this structure was deemed a safety hazard and is six years behind on taxes. Despite the owner’s representative (Mr. Eastwood) offering to clean the site, the Commission approved Resolution No. 10-2026 for the city to proceed with demolition. (Page 2)

18 S. Holbrook: The Land Bank remains interested in this property via tax sale to clear the deed. The City Manager was directed to bring this back to the agenda within 90 days for a final resolution. (Page 2)

Infrastructure & City Operations

Cape Seal Project: The Commission unanimously approved going out for bids for the 2026 Cape Seal project based on specs from Earles Engineering. (Page 2)

Horton Street Remediation: Jason Dickman identified “bleeding” asphalt on Horton Street. The city will initiate a warranty claim with the contractor (Heck and Wicker) to develop a work plan for repairs. (Page 3)

Contractor Licensing: There was an extensive discussion regarding the feasibility of city-level contractor licensing. Concerns were raised about the administrative burden and liability. Staff will research how surrounding cities handle licensing and reciprocal agreements. (Page 3)

City Lake Lots: Commissioners discussed leaning toward a leasing model for city-owned lake properties, primarily for storage use. Commissioner Buchta will tour the area with the Codes Department for further evaluation. (Page 3)

Commission & Staff Reports

  • City Engineer: Reported that the Davis Lift Station work begins February 16, 2026, and the CCLIP Phase 4 application will be submitted in March. (Page 3)

  • General Comments: Commissioners discussed recent snow removal efforts and street sweeping. Commissioner Van Hoecke noted the Dragoon is scheduled to open June 1st. (Page 3)

K-State Extension

Why Checking Your Blood Pressure Matters More Than You Think by Tara Soloman-Smith

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

Why Checking Your Blood Pressure Matters More Than You Think

Most of us don’t think about our blood pressure until a doctor mentions it—but waiting can be risky.  High blood pressure is often called a “silent” condition for a reason—you can have it without feeling any symptoms. Yet it remains one of the top risk factors for heart attack and stroke.

In Kansas, 34.3% of adults—about 750,000 people—have been diagnosed with high blood pressure, enough to fill Arrowhead Stadium nearly ten times. It’s a reminder of just how common this condition is and why keeping an eye on your numbers is so important.

The first step in understanding your blood pressure is simple: check it regularly. Accurate, consistent readings help you notice patterns and spot changes early. This information also helps you have more informed conversations with your healthcare provider and take action before small issues grow into serious health problems.

Recognizing the need for easier access to blood pressure monitoring, five local libraries have joined together to launch the Libraries with Heart initiative. This program aims to make blood pressure checks and related education more accessible to everyone in the community.

Program Highlights

  • Blood Pressure Monitors for Checkout: Patrons can borrow validated monitors through each library’s Library of Things catalog.
  • Easy-to-Understand Educational Materials: Resources help users learn how to take readings, understand their results, and take steps toward better heart health.
  • Connections to Local Healthcare Providers: Additional support and follow-up care are available through local partners.

The Libraries with Heart initiative is supported by a Basic Human Needs grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas, in partnership with K‑State Extension, the American Heart Association, and participating libraries.

Heart‑Healthy Habits to Start Today

  • Check Your Blood Pressure Regularly
  • Eat Smart: Choose herbs and spices instead of salt.
  • Move More: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity daily.
  • Sleep Well: Get 7–9 hours each night to support heart recovery.
  • Manage Stress: Try deep breathing, stretching, or a short walk.
  • Avoid Tobacco: Your heart begins to heal within weeks of quitting.

For more information, contact Tara Solomon-Smith at [email protected] or 620‑244‑3826.

K-State Extension

Tips to Extend the Life of Valentine’s Day Roses by Kendal Henson

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Tips to extend the life of Valentine’s Day roses

Many people receive Valentine’s Day gifts from loved ones, especially roses, but the holiday’s favorite flower often declines shortly after Feb. 14. Kansas State University horticulture expert Matthew McKernan offers guidelines to extend the life of floral
arrangements and cut flowers.

“For floral arrangements, keep the vase filled or floral foam soaked with water,” McKernan said. “Add fresh water daily and if the water turns cloudy, replace it immediately.”

McKernan suggests recutting flower stems every time water is replaced by removing 1-2 inches with a sharp knife, scissors or garden pruner to allow the stem to continue drawing water.

“Keep flowers in a cool spot (65 to 72 degrees Fahrenheit), away from direct sunlight, heating or cooling vents, directly under ceiling fans, or near radiators,” McKernan said.

When arranging cut flowers, begin by filling a clean, deep vase with water and add the flower food obtained from your florist.

“Remove leaves that will be below the waterline. Leaves in water will promote bacterial growth, which will dirty water and shorten flower life,” McKernan said. “Stems should be cut at a 45-degree angle immediately before putting them in water to further extend the
life of the bouquet.”

If you cannot get flowers in a food solution right away, keep them cool, he added. McKernan and his colleagues in K-State’s Department of Horticulture and Natural Resources produce a weekly Horticulture Newsletter with tips for maintaining home
landscapes and gardens. https://hnr.k-state.edu/extension/horticulture-resource-center/horticulture-newsletter

Kendal Henson is a Kansas State University Extension 4-H & Youth Development agent assigned to the Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-625-8620. Kansas State Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Government, Kansas

Masterson: Senate Will Stand for Truth

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Topeka, KS – Senate President Ty Masterson issued the following statement in response to Governor Laura Kelly’s veto of SB 244, the bill strengthening and clarifying the Women’s Bill of Rights.

“I never thought I’d see the day when our state’s own governor would turn her back on women by forcing them to use bathrooms in public buildings with biological men. Sadly, our governor has decided she will side with they/them over simple, scientific truth,” Masterson said. “Kansans need not worry – the Kansas Senate will restore sanity, and override her veto.”

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Kansas Senate President Ty Masterson | 300 SW 10th St. 332-E | Topeka, KS 66612 US
Government, Kansas

Governor Kelly Vetoes Poorly Drafted Legislation

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TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Friday vetoed House Substitute for Senate Bill 244.

The following veto message is from Governor Kelly regarding her veto of House Substitute for Senate Bill 244:

“This poorly drafted bill will have numerous and significant consequences far beyond the intent to limit the right for trans people to use the appropriate bathroom.

“Under this bill:

“If your grandfather is in a nursing home in a shared room, as a granddaughter, you would not be able to visit him.

“If your wife is in a shared hospital room, as a husband, you would not be able to visit her.

“If your sister is living in a dorm at K-State, as a brother, you would not be able to visit her in her room.

“If you feel you have to accompany your nine-year-old daughter to the restroom at a sporting event, as a father, you would have to either enter the women’s restroom with her or let her use the restroom alone.

“I believe the Legislature should stay out of the business of telling Kansans how to go to the bathroom and instead stay focused on how to make life more affordable for Kansans.

“Therefore, under Article 2, Section 14(a) of the Constitution, I hereby veto House Substitute for Senate Bill 244.”

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Bourbon County

Bo Co Coaliltion Meeting Minutes of Feb. 4

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Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes

 

February 4, 2026

 

 

  1.  Welcome: Twenty-two members representing nineteen agencies attended the meeting held at the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.

 

Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board.  Reach out to Nick if you are interested.

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:
  • Craig Campbell Good Neighbor Action Team – GNAT builds wheelchair ramps, paints houses, and gets yard work back to zero. They can also help with grant applications.  GNAT has been getting lots of requests from area communities.  If you have connections with anyone who builds ramps in area communities, let Craig know.
  • Cameron Johnson – CHC/SEK School Health Worker with USD 234.
  • Shelby Moore- Families Together FAST – Shelby works with families who have children with intellectual disabilities and helps navigate the special education process.
  • Star Culp Parents As Teachers – Free early learning program, no qualifications- for everyone. PAT has hired more educators, so they have openings.
  • Michelle Stevenson – Fort Scott Early Childhood Program – Home visiting program for families with children prenatal through 6 years old. Michelle tracks development, models for parents, and helps families get kids ready for preschool or kindergarten.  Michelle hosts parent-child cafes for socialization.  The program is pretty full right now, but will be graduating kids in June.
  • Janelle Tate – ECBG – Transitions Coordinator in 6 counties in SEK
  • Patty Simpson – Fort Scott Housing Authority – FSHA has 190 income-based apartments. All units are currently full, but 6 units will be available soon.  There is a short waiting list.
  • Clayton Whitson – Faith Church – Clayton is hoping to connect to resources in the community so he can help visitors at the church.
  • Jennifer Gumfowler – Fort Scott Public Library- Private booth space is now available, sensory toys are coming in. Some can be checked out, and some are to be used in the library.  Now have blood pressure cuffs to be checked out.  Starting Feb 1, Canopy online streaming services will be available.  Everyone with a library card has 25 tickets, childrens programs are free.
  • Lora Wilson CHC – Lora helps clients with any resources.
  • Tammy Alcaantor – Crawford Health Department – Tammy hosts a Baby and Me Tobacco Free program. It is now a 6-month program that provides education and incentives for clients trying to quit tobacco and nicotine.  Tammy is part of the Kansas Perinatal Community Collaborative.  Ask Tammy about resources from KPCC.
  • Theresa Amershek – Safe House CVEC- Theresa completes intakes for visits between parents and kids. The goal is to provide a safe place for parents to visit their children. Safehouse has its annual Bags to Riches fundraiser on March 28 in Pittsburg.
  • Kelly Stammer – DCF – LIEAP program is now open. Events in the area will help clients sign up electronically.
  • Dave Gillen – Beacon – The Beacon is an interfaith, non-profit organization helping with food, hygiene, and other necessities since 1985. Partners with several local agencies to provide help to those in need. 2025 was a successful year for the Beacon. The Beacon distributed over $28,000 in financial assistance in 2025. The Beacon provided more than 150 tons of food and served 4500 families. Shoe vouchers helped 142 children starting school.  The Beacon worked with the Bourbon County Coalition to provide swim passes to families.  The Beacon organized and donated Christmas gifts for children.  There were 146 applications for food baskets.   In January, the Beacon helped 343 families, $2, 200 dollars. The Beacon receives donations from Walmart on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.  The Beacon also helps families with taxi passes and gas vouchers.
  • Jalaine Davis – Core Community – Core helps those in poverty get out of poverty. Graduation from phase 1 will be coming up on March 24.  Phase 2 will begin later this year.
  • Kathy Brennon – Area Agency on Aging- On-site meals are available at Buck Run. Also have bingo twice per month.  These programs are for those aged 60+.  Transportation is a big issue for people getting to the meal site.  If you know of a church or someone with an accessible van who could help with transportation, let Kathy know.  The third Wednesday caregiver support group meets at Papa Don’s.  Medicare counselling is available for those new to Medicare.  Funding is available for in-home support, home modification, and case management.  The Kansas respite and dementia program can provide assistance or equipment for those living with someone with dementia.  A small emergency fund is available for 60+, up to $500 per year. Call the office for more information.
  • Dee Dee LeFever – Greenbush – Greenbush offers PAT and Infant Toddler Systems for area preschools and programs. Also provide audiology services, virtual parent trainings, and the SEK Community resource guide.
  • Cheyenne Bolin – SEK-CAP family educator, 0-3 and prenatal services. SEK-CAP currently has four open spots. They offer 90-minute home-based visits and help with community resources.
  • Janice Durbin – Child and Family Development Educator, 3-5 year olds, advocate for Head Start center. Janice can help locate resources for families.
  • Larry Jump – Community Liaison for SEK-CAP – Early education -Supports those in the area Head Start centers/programs. Head Start is always looking for employees and children.

 

 

  1.  Program: 

 

Teresa Davenport, Care to Share

Care to Share is a cancer support group that began in 2007.  They began raising funds in 2009.  Care to Share does not employ any staff; it is 100% volunteer based. Care to Share is located at 9 E. Wall.  Volunteers staff the location from 11:00 to 2:00 on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. Care to Share has raised $1.8 million since 2009; all money raised goes to cancer fighters.    Care to Share began in Bourbon County and is now helping cancer fighters in Linn County and Crawford County.  They raise funds in all three counties and distribute about the same amount in each county as was raised. Recent fundraisers include Pink Out night in Linn County, which raised $10,000, and a pool tournament in Bourbon County, which raised $20,000.  Care to Share is currently helping about 75 people, including 6 families with children who have cancer.  Last year, Care to Share raised about $100,000.  They distributed about $51,000 in gas vouchers.

 

Care to Share helps cancer fighters financially and emotionally in a variety of ways, including help with utilities, gas, food, home maintenance, transportation costs,  and car maintenance.  They have tons of medical equipment and lift chairs available for cancer survivors and those in need.  They also have sharing shelves, books, puzzles, wigs, and bras available for cancer fighters.  There are no income guidelines- they will help anyone.  Provide both financial and emotional support. Care to Share will try to do about anything for cancer fighters.  Care to Share does not receive referrals from doctors’ offices, so if you know of someone battling cancer, have them get in contact with Care to Share.

 

Upcoming fundraisers include an Elvis Impersonator show on Feb 28, bake sales, and golf tournaments. Care to Share will be starting a cancer support group in the coming months. There are many ways to help Care to Share that don’t require money. Volunteers can be a part of the prayer team, make phone calls, and send cards.  If you would like help Care to Share, call 620-644-9090 or visit their Facebook page for more information.

 

 

 

 

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:

 

 Adjournment:  The next General Membership meeti

Government, Kansas

Kansas Launches Community Empowerment Program

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Commerce Launches Two New Kansas Community Empowerment Grants

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of two new grant opportunities through the Kansas Community Empowerment (KCE) program. KCE, which is housed within the Quality Places Division at the Department of Commerce, supports locally driven projects that strengthen quality of place, volunteer engagement and long-term community vibrancy across Kansas.

Applications for the KCE Kickstart Grant and Impact Grant are now being accepted. For the first round of funding, the Kickstart Grant will have $40,000 available and the Impact Grant will have $30,000.

“While we bring opportunities and prosperity to all parts of our state, these new grants will specifically target rural and smaller communities across Kansas,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Whether it’s helping a small volunteer-led initiative or funding a transformational placemaking project — these grants are designed to meet the needs of the communities while building their pride, momentum and lasting impact.”

The Kickstart Grant is designed to provide funding for smaller, community-driven projects that build capacity, engagement and momentum. The highlights of the Kickstart Grant include:

  • Awards ranging from $500 to $5,000
  • Ideal for short-term, highly visible projects such as community cleanups, engagement events or early-stage vibrancy initiatives
  • Applications will be accepted on a rolling basis through December 4, or until funds are depleted

The Impact Grant is designed to support larger, long-term investments that create permanent improvements to community assets. Highlights of the Impact Grant include:

  • Awards ranging from $5,000 to $15,000
  • Eligible projects include public art installations, downtown improvements, park and recreation upgrades, community gardens, signage and other placemaking efforts
  • Applications will be accepted through March 31

Both grant opportunities require a 1:1 match, which may include in-kind contributions such as volunteer hours.

“Our community leaders and volunteers are the visionaries, voices and trailblazers of our state — they have the ideas, and they have the passion,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “Because of these two new grant opportunities, awarded organizations will be able to bring what was once a vision to something tangible — and really embrace community vibrancy.”

The grants are administered by the Kansas Department of Commerce and funded in part by the Patterson Family Foundation, the Kansas Health Foundation, the Sunflower Foundation and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Kansas.

An informational webinar will be held at 12:00 p.m. Wednesday, February 18. To register, sign up here.

Applications must be submitted through the Kansas Community Empowerment online application system, which can be found here.

For application details, eligibility requirements and webinar information, visit the Kansas Community Empowerment webpage here or contact Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.

About the Quality Places Division:

Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

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K-State Extension

Feb. 25: Educational Program to Address Theileria in Cattle

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Educational Program to Address Theileria in Cattle

FORT SCOTT, Kan. — Area cattle producers are invited to attend an educational program focused on Theileria in cattle: understanding risk, spread, and management on Wednesday, February 25, at 5:30 p.m. The program will be held at the Fort Scott Livestock Market, 2131 Maple Rd., Fort Scott.

Theileria is an emerging concern for cattle producers in Kansas, and the meeting will provide practical, research-based information to help producers understand the disease and reduce risk in their operations.

Presenters include Dr. Cassandra Olds, K-State veterinary entomologist, and Hunter Nickell, Southwind Extension agent. Topics will include an overview of Theileria in cattle, transmission pathways, entomology considerations, arthropod control strategies, and management decisions that reduce disease risk while minimizing insecticide resistance. There will also be a short discussion on reporting losses to the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and some programs they offer for assistance.

Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.

There is no cost to attend, but reservations are encouraged. For questions or to reserve a spot, call 620-365-2242 or email [email protected].

Kansas State University is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Opinion

When Love Bombing Doesn’t Last by Patty LaRoche

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Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

“For better or worse…”  The beaming bride and groom mimic the pastor’s words, vowing that no matter what happens, they are in this marriage thing until they drop. But what happens when, to their surprise, the spouse turns out not to be the kind, gentle, admiring soul he/she pretends to be?  What happens when that person is a narcissist?

Mayo Clinic defines the disease well: “a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that’s vulnerable to the slightest criticism.”

Sounds like the “worse” part of the marital contract to me.

Mayo continues. “People with a narcissistic personality disorder may be generally unhappy and disappointed when they’re not given the special favors they believe they deserve.” Most narcissists wear one personality in public, another in private.

They are jealous, master manipulators.  The “love-bombing” they demonstrated when dating looks nothing like the actual mental illness they now demonstrate.

The Zoom Bible study I am in is reading Dr. Henry Cloud’s book, Why I Believe.  The renowned psychologist writes about a flight he was on in which he sat next to a young woman who asked what he did for a living.  When he told her, she shared the saga of her umpteenth breakup with her boyfriend, saying that his anger issues came between them as he repeatedly controlled/manipulated her when she behaved in a way he disapproved.

She explained.  “I can calm him down by agreeing with him, but I can’t always just give in.  I feel like I am losing myself.  So, we break up and then I go back.”  Cloud then replied, “There is an old saying: ‘If you rescue an angry man, you will only have to do it again.’”  She asked where he heard that quote.  “The Bible,” he answered.  “Proverbs 19:19. You should read it sometime.  There is good stuff in there.”

“I never knew that was in the Bible!” she said.

Cloud replied, “Yeah,” I know, I didn’t either, until I started to really read it.”  The author addresses narcissism in his book and shares that he finds the most effective psychology rooted in Scripture.  “Boundaries and limits to destructive behavior are taught throughout the Bible, and regaining control for oneself is a chief tenet.”

I’ve been giving a lot of thought to this topic, narcissism, and I wonder if we all don’t have a little of this disease in us. We sort of like things to go our way, don’t we?  At least I do, like when instead of marriage being a walk in the park, it’s more like a 100-mile marathon in 100-degree weather in the hills of Arkansas. Instead of looking at our disagreement from Dave’s perspective, my vision is blinded by my wants, my desires.

I am grateful that for almost 53 years, we have weathered those marathons and have learned to work to seek good in each other.  For Dave, that’s easy.  (Riiiight!)

So, what’s a victim to do?  Pray.  A lot.  Especially before they take those vows.

Fort Scott Community College, Sports

FSCC Launches Men’s Soccer Program, Names Luis Pulido Head Coach

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Fort Scott Community College has officially launched its new men’s soccer program and announced the hiring of Luis Pulido as the team’s inaugural head coach, marking a significant step in the college’s continued athletic growth.

Pulido brings a high-expectation, accountability-driven coaching philosophy to Fort Scott, emphasizing structure, discipline and personal responsibility both on and off the field. His approach centers on creating clear systems that allow student-athletes to thrive while holding everyone, including himself, to demanding standards.

“My philosophy is simple: I create an environment with no excuses,” Pulido said. “If I lay a strong foundation and put the right systems in place for success, then it’s up to the players to put in the work from there.”

In the program’s first season, Pulido said his goal is to make Fort Scott a regional and national contender from day one, while establishing championship-level habits that extend beyond the scoreboard.

“Success isn’t only measured by wins and losses,” Pulido said. “It’s about behaving like champions and striving for excellence in everything you do.”

Player development under Pulido will extend beyond tactics and training, with a strong emphasis on academic success, personal growth and self-sufficiency. A former educator, Pulido prioritizes classroom performance and life skills as essential components of student-athlete development.

“Academic success is our highest priority,” Pulido said. “Soccer is a privilege. You earn the opportunity to play on the field by fulfilling your academic responsibilities first.”

Athletic Director Dave Wiemers said the launch of soccer and the hiring of Pulido align with FSCC’s mission to build competitive programs rooted in accountability and student success.

“We are excited to have Luis and his family join our great group of coaches,” Wiemers said. “He has been a sitting head coach, has had success, and will fit in perfectly with our ideas moving forward.”

Community engagement will be a cornerstone of the program, with players encouraged to build strong relationships on campus and throughout the Fort Scott area through service, outreach and involvement.

“The opportunity to build this program from the ground up is incredibly exciting,” Pulido said. “I want to create something the school and community can truly be proud of.”

Additional details regarding competition schedules and recruiting opportunities for FSCC men’s soccer will be announced at a later date.

 

 

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Bourbon County Local News