Mary Kathleen (Matney) Davis, 83, passed away peacefully, surrounded by her children, on June 17, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas, following complications from surgery.
Mary was born on March 25, 1943, in Albuquerque, New Mexico, to William and Vera (Shine) Matney. On June 17, 1961, she married Gerald Joseph Davis, beginning a marriage filled with great memories and family. They would have celebrated their 68th wedding anniversary on the day of her passing.
Mary’s greatest joy was her family. She poured her heart into raising her children and creating a home filled with laughter, and lasting memories. Whether waterskiing, fishing with loved ones, or riding horses, Mary cherished every moment spent with her family. She taught her children the value of hard work, determination, and seeing every task through to completion—lessons that continue to guide them today.
Mary dedicated 25 years of service to Tri-Valley. Beginning her career as the bus driver and rose through the organization to become Director of Operations. Her leadership and commitment earned her numerous awards and the respect of colleagues and friends. After retirement, she continued to serve on the Tri-Valley Board for several years, reflecting on her dedication to helping others.
In her quieter moments, Mary enjoyed reading, watching television, playing pinochle, and challenging family and friends to a game of Scrabble.
Mary is survived by her children: Mark James (Connie) Davis of Gravette, Arkansas; William Edward (Andy Trinh) Davis of Wichita, Kansas; Elizabeth Ann (Ronnie) Swezey of Franklin, Kansas; and Teresa Kathleen (Jerry) Davenport of Fort Scott, Kansas. She was a proud and loving grandmother to Jenni (Brandon) Edge, Jacob (LeAnn) Davis, Mary Swezey, Brianne (Joe) Sheridan, Dehn Davenport, and Davis (Courtney) Davenport. She also leaves behind several beloved great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren, along with numerous nieces, nephews, sisters-in-law, and a brother-in-law.
She was preceded in death by her husband, Jerry; her son, Michael; her granddaughter, Amanda Davis; her brothers, Michael and Patrick Matney; her sister, Theresa Shaw; and her parents.
Mary will be remembered for her kindness, generosity, and fun-loving nature. She was always ready to lend a helping hand, offer encouragement, or share a laugh. She was a member of Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church as well as a member of United Way.
Though her family grieves her loss, they take comfort in the memories she created, the values she instilled, and the love she shared. Her memory lives on in the hearts of all who knew and loved her.
A Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Tuesday, June 23, at 10:00 a.m. at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Visitation will be held Monday, June 22, from 5:00 to 6:30 p.m. at the Cheney Witt Chapel, with the Rosary immediately following at 6:30 p.m.
Memorial contributions are suggested to the Michael J. Davis Memorial at Tri-Valley or to the Care to Share Cancer Support Group and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
Patty LaRoche. 2023. Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection www.alittlefaithlift.com AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)
The story is told of a little girl who developed the bad habit of lying. On her birthday she received a Saint Bernard puppy but told all of her friends she’d been given a lion. When her mother heard this story, she was not happy. “I told you not to lie. Honesty is very important. Now go upstairs and tell God you’re sorry. Promise Him you’ll never lie again.”
The little girl slowly climbed the stairs to her room, said her prayers, and then came back down to play. Her mother was waiting. “Well, did you tell God you’re sorry?” she asked. “Yes, I did,” her daughter quickly responded. “And God said that sometimes He thinks it’s hard to tell a Saint Bernard from a lion, too.”
If there is any sin more prevalent than the lie, I’m not sure what it is. The book The Day America Told the Truth reports that 91 percent of those surveyed lie routinely about matters they consider trivial, and 36 percent lie about important matters; 86 percent lie regularly to parents, 75 percent to friends, 73 percent to siblings, and 69 percent to spouses.
As surprising as those numbers are, who of us hasn’t been guilty? We download illegal songs. Cheat on our tax returns. Embellish our accomplishments. Permanently “borrow” the stapler from the office. Tell our friends we will “pray for them” but don’t. And then… we justify. Not the way to make God happy. After all, He watched the downfall of man begin with lies.
Think about it. Satan introduces himself to mankind by lying about God to Eve– “You shall not die.” In other words, “God fibbed when He warned you of the consequence of eating from the tree of life.” Eve and Adam learn quickly that God means business as they are banished from the Garden of Eden one itty bitty bite later.
In the book of Job, Satan lies to God. “The only reason Job obeys you is because you’re so good to him.” At Jesus’ crucifixion, the same liar convinces the masses to support the Romans and religious zealots who have sabotaged Jesus’ ministry. In the book of Revelation, Satan embodies the antichrist, who tells a lie so believable it brings about the end of the world.
As one author put it, in Genesis he uses a lie to corrupt a godly man. In Job, he uses a lie to criticize a good man. In the New Testament, he uses a lie to crucify the God Man. It’s no wonder John 4:4 warns us: When men are deliberate liars, they prove their kinship to the devil, for Jesus said: “The devil … he is a liar, and the father of it.”
I know someone who lies to make himself feel important and then gets angry when confronted. Repentance is not part of his vocabulary. In fact, typically more lies follow in the cover-up. I wish he could have the same outcome as the store manager who heard his rookie clerk tell a customer, “No, ma’am, we haven’t had any for a while, and it doesn’t look as if we’ll be getting any soon.” Horrified, the manager came running over to the customer and said, “Of course we’ll have some soon. We placed an order last week.” Then the manager drew the clerk aside. “Never,” he snarled, “Never, never, never say we’re out of anything- say we’ve got it on order and it’s coming. Now, what was it she wanted anyway?”
The clerk answered, “Rain!”
For many, deceit holds the key to money, fame, revenge or power. I’d rather hold the key to truth and integrity.
One will keep me in bondage. The other will set me free.
The Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes’ special summer exhibition honoring Unsung Hero Mary Anning is now open!
Long before paleontology became a recognized field, Mary Anning was making groundbreaking fossil discoveries along the cliffs of England’s Jurassic Coast. Her findings helped shape our understanding of prehistoric life and inspired generations of scientists.
Visitors to the exhibition can explore fascinating fossils, life-sized replicas, dinosaur teeth and claws, and learn how one determined young woman changed science forever. Watch the KOAM-TV News segment featuring the exhibition, and plan your visit today!
Discovery Award Deadline Approaching
Over the years, the Lowell Milken Center Discovery Award competition has grown, as more teachers and students embrace project-based learning and the opportunity to bring overlooked stories to light. The quality, creativity, and depth of research in these projects continue to impress our judges and inspire everyone involved.
We are looking forward to receiving this year’s submissions and seeing the remarkable stories students have discovered. If you are a teacher or student currently working on a project and have questions about the submission process, we are always happy to help—please feel free to reach out.
Do you know an educator or student who would love this opportunity? Please help us spread the word! Share the Discovery Award with teachers, students, and schools in your circle and invite them to discover a hero, create a project, and make an impact.
Welcoming the 2026 LMC Fellows
On June 21, we will welcome our first group of national award-winning educators from across North America to Fort Scott for the 2026 Lowell Milken Center Fellowship.
Katie Botello: 2019 California Milken Educator, Fresno, CA
Heather Hurt: 2018 Alabama Milken Educator, Vestavia Hills, AL
James Lawlor: Discovery Award Winner / ARTEFFECT Ambassador, Jericho, NY
Johnna Stoffregen: 2019 NAEA Kansas Art Educator and ARTEFFECT Ambassador, Andover, KS
Magali Turner: 2023 New Mexico Milken Educator, Deming, NM
Week 2 Fellows (June 28–July 3)
Liz Anstine: 2025 Kansas Teacher of the Year, Olathe, KS
Elizabeth Hutton: Life in a Jar Original Cast / Project Member, Lebanon, MO
Jennifer McMunn: Finalist for National History Day Teacher of the Year, Mansfield, CT
Elizabeth Metts: 2025 Massachusetts Milken Educator, Boston, MA
Danyel Smith: 2024 California Milken Educator, Rancho Cucamonga, CA
Kelly Steffen: 2019 Gilder Lehrman Award, Vinton, IA
These outstanding teachers will spend the week exploring Unsung Hero stories, collaborating with fellow educators, and developing innovative classroom projects that inspire students to make a difference in their communities. The impact of the Fellowship extends far beyond one week, reaching thousands of students for years to come through meaningful, project-based learning experiences.
Celebrating Joyce’s Service
As Administrative Assistant and Docent, Joyce plays an important role in supporting staff, welcoming visitors, and sharing the stories of Unsung Heroes through tours of the Hall of Unsung Heroes. Her dedication, knowledge, and friendly presence have made a lasting impact on the Center, its visitors, and the educators and students we serve around the world.
Thank you, Joyce, for eight years of service to the LMC mission!
Source: Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes newsletter, June 18, 2026. The center is located at 1 South Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
PRICE, SHANNON LEVI, 46
Arrested: 6/17/2026 4:20 PM
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Charge: Warrant Bourbon County (Failure to Appear)
Bond: $0.00
MCDANIEL, NICOLLE SELENE, 29
Arrested: 6/17/2026 4:08 PM
Agency: Fort Scott PD
Charges:
– Interference with LEO; Obstruct/Resist Misd
– Theft by Deception; Value Unknown
– Warrant – Out of County (Warrant No. CRG-2026-CR-000015)
Bond: $5,000.00 Cash/Surety
Inmate Released List
BECKLEY, JAMES A, 53
Booked: 06/16/2026
Released: 6/17/2026 at 4:16 PM
Type: Surety Bond
Released to: A+ Bail Bonds
Savoring Summer: A Mindful Moment in the Middle of the Season
With the first official day of summer just around the corner, it feels like the perfect moment to pause and check in. How is your summer unfolding so far? Are the longer days lifting your spirits? Is the warm weather giving you a chance to spend more time outside? I hope you can answer yes to all of the above. Even with a few rainy days sprinkled in, we’ve had some beautiful weather for summer activities.
But if any of your answers leaned toward no, consider this a gentle nudge to step outside for even a few minutes. Early mornings and late evenings are wonderful times to enjoy the outdoors without the heat. A small moment of fresh air can make a big difference. Not only for well-being, but also to offer an opportunity for mindfulness.
Mindfulness is something many of us struggle to prioritize, myself included. This season is one of the busiest for Extension—camps, cooking classes, community programs, partnerships, and of course, the county fair. The days stretch long, and the todo list never seems to shrink. Yet with two little girls and a husband waiting at home, I know I need to be more intentional about slowing down.
So, I’m challenging both you and myself to practice mindfulness through our five senses, no matter what we’re doing. Let’s try it with something simple: a fresh tomato straight from the garden—a true summer treasure.
Imagine holding that tomato in your hand.
What do you see? Notice the color, the size, the shape. Are there tiny imperfections that make it unique?
What do you feel? Roll it gently in your hands. Is the skin smooth? Firm? Does anything surprise you?
What do you smell? Bring it to your nose. The scent may be faint now, but it will deepen once you take a bite.
What do you hear? Hold it near your ear. It may seem silly, but stay with me—you’ll understand in a moment.
Now take a slow, thoughtful bite.
What do you taste? Let the flavor linger. Did you hear the skin break this time? Can you smell the tomato more clearly now?
Continue eating it slowly, savoring each bite. Too often we rush through our days—and our meals—without truly experiencing them. Mindfulness invites us to be present, even in the smallest moments.
When you finish the tomato, take a breath. How do you feel?
As we move deeper into the season, I hope you’ll continue finding small ways to slow down and reconnect—with nature, with your senses, and with yourself. Summer has a way of reminding us that joy often lives in the simplest moments: a quiet walk, a warm breeze, a ripe tomato from the garden. Let’s carry that awareness with us, even on the busiest days. Here’s to a summer filled with presence, gratitude, and moments that ground us in what truly matters.
For more information about mindfulness programs, reach out to Jennifer Terrell, 4-H Youth Development Extension Agent at K-State Extension | Southwind District.
FORT SCOTT, KS – June 1, 2026 – The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Johnna Stoffregen, visual art teacher at Andover Middle School in Kansas. Johnna will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.
The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.
Johnna Stoffregen, a visual art teacher from Andover Middle School in Andover, Kansas, has been recognized as a 2023-2024 ARTEFFECT Ambassador. Mrs. Stoffregen’s award-winning art program empowers students to use art as a tool for self-discovery and communication. Young artists are encouraged to take risks and solve complex problems using critical thinking skills essential for life beyond the art studio.
Within her district, Mrs. Stoffregen serves as the Professional Learning Community Coordinator for the district’s visual arts team, organizing professional learning and fostering communication between teachers and district administration. She also founded an International Travel Program, providing opportunities for students and families to immerse themselves in global learning. Mrs. Stoffregen provides professional development for adults as well as students by presenting at a variety of conferences and workshops featuring the state standards, arts integration, and project-based learning.
LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Johnna’s experience as an ARTEFFECT Ambassador and appreciation of the unsung heroes whose selfless lives have profoundly impacted history will be a perfect fit with our dynamic 2026 team of Fellows.”
While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.
Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – June 18, 2026
Arrested
Ross, Gavin Lee (Age 23) — Arrested 6/17/2026 11:37 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: DUI; 1st Conviction. Bond: $2,000.00 Cash/Surety.
Price, Shannon Levi (Age 46) — Arrested 6/17/2026 4:20 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant Bourbon County (Failure to Appear). Bond: $0.00.
McDaniel, Nicolle Selene (Age 29) — Arrested 6/17/2026 4:08 PM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charges: Interference with LEO; Obstruct/Resist Misd, Theft by Deception; Value Unknown, Warrant – Out of County (CRG-2026-CR-000015). Bond: $5,000.00 Cash/Surety.
Released
Beckley, James A — Released 6/17/2026 4:16 PM via Surety Bond (A+ Bail Bonds).
The Bourbon County Commission met Monday, June 15, 2026, with all five commissioners present and Chairman Samuel Tran presiding. The board worked through county roads, a new development moratorium, the selection of a comprehensive-plan consultant, and an extended discussion of the budget process and election logistics. The full meeting is available on the county’s YouTube channel: June 15, 2026 Bourbon County Commission Meeting.
Hidden Valley Roads
Public Works Director Kenny Allen told commissioners the county has no recorded easements for the Hidden Valley roads in the Mound City/Mapleton area, that the roads do not meet county construction standards, and that bringing them up to standard would require costly reconstruction. After confirming counsel’s agreement, the commission adopted Resolution 23-26, reaffirming that Resolution 7-21 designated the Hidden Valley roads only for law-enforcement access and not for county maintenance. Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee pointed out that adopting the resolution should keep the same issue from needing the attention of the next set of commissioners, should the residents of Hidden Valley bring it up again in the future.
Accounts Payable and Payroll
The commission approved two accounts-payable batches (setting aside two rock-crusher training charges for Kenny Allen to dispute) and, after amending the agenda, approved two payroll registers. Commissioners also approved the June 1 meeting minutes.
Public Comments: Security Cameras and Drainage
Tristan Smittle and a colleague from INA Alert (introduced as Jacob Strecker) pitched integrated security and camera systems, offering rough per-camera cost figures. Landowner Mark Warren raised drainage and standing-water concerns on three properties — near 120th and Paint Creek south of Redfield, on Limestone Road southeast of Uniontown, and on Kansas Road west of Highway 3. Milburn-Kee took his contact information for follow-up.
Elm Creek Lake Dam Grant Terminated
Don George of the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks asked the commission to terminate a five-year-old grant for Elm Creek Lake dam repair, explaining that the cost figures are now outdated.
The county has no records of how the dam was constructed by the WPA, so there’s no way to know what would happen if the face was removed. George pointed out that it’s an important part of Bourbon County and the longer they wait to make repairs, the more expensive it will be.
Commissioner David Beerbower expressed a desire to keep Elm Creek Lake in good condition. MIlburn-Kee asked about reports that the fishing is declining at the lake. George said that he doesn’t stock it as much as he used to because of the leak and how low the water gets, making stocking the lake a potentially poor investment. George also offered to take any interested commissioners on a tour to learn what his department does for the county.
When Tran asked about the conditions of the grant, George said that the Department of Wildlife was going to pay about 1/3 of the cost at $40,000 and the county pay the remainder of $121,000, the majority of which would be using the county’s workers, equipment, and resources. (Background: County Commission Discusses EMS and Elm Creek Quarry.)
The commission voted to terminate the grant, and George invited the county to submit a future application with current numbers for the next grant cycle in May of 2027.
Comprehensive Plan: Confluence Selected
Planning Commission representatives Brian Ashworth II and Pete Owenby recommended hiring Confluence to produce the county’s comprehensive plan — at a cost of $105,500 — along with an optional zoning-code update (costing $46,500), citing stronger community-engagement plans than competing firms. The proposed time line is 10 months from the beginning of work with an additional four months for zoning. One way the county could save money on the cost of the work is to work on the zoning in conjunction with developing the comprehensive plan. By developing a comprehensive plan, the county will provide leverage for various entities in Bourbon County that may wish to apply for grants. “It promotes growth,” said Milburn-Kee.
The commission voted to select Confluence, with Commissioner Gregg Motley abstaining, and authorized Ashworth to pursue best-and-final pricing. The selection follows the Planning Commission’s spring review of proposals (see May 13–14 Planning Commission agendas and the February RFP summary).
Clerk’s Requests: Website Access and Election Room
County Clerk Susan Walker requested front-page access to the county website for herself, the county treasurer and the emergency management department to keep required publications and the emergency status of the county current. No one is updating the finance page at this time. The commission deferred pending consultation with its IT provider, Stronghold.
Walker also formally requested use of the commission room for early voting and election school on specified dates. A motion by Commissioner Milburn-Kee to deny use of the room (while still allowing Public Works and custodial assistance with election equipment) split the vote and failed; a follow-on motion by Commissioner Motley to approve the clerk’s full request passed.
Milburn-Kee claimed that the commission room is the only space she can use on the courthouse for commission work. A heated exchange occurred between Chairman Tran and Clerk Walker over election-room security and tone.
Budget Process
Commissioners Beerbower, Tran, Motley, and Allen said they want department heads to present their budgets directly to the board — beginning with Public Works on June 29 — while Commissioner Milburn-Kee preferred letting financial advisor Baker Tilly handle the process. The commission approved read-only CIC remote access for Baker Tilly so the firm can pull budget information directly. The discussion continues the board’s budget work from its May 18 meeting.
The moratorium will be in effect for one year, or until Bourbon County adopts amendments to the zoning regulation of the county pertaining to utility-scale power generation crypto mining, data centers, and waste disposal operations, whichever first occurs.
Other Business
Signed previously approved Resolution 22-26.
Authorized Chair Tran to sign a real-estate (MLS) listing extension.
Appointed Michael Hoyt as the county’s representative to the Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging board, Milburn-Kee and Tran voting against.
Commissioner Allen praised first responders’ performance during a recent incident involving the sheriff and reported the DMV may reopen within the week.
Commissioner Comments
Beerbower: Asked that the commissioners give their opinion on the size of flag to fly from the 40-foot poll at the courthouse. The commission decided to bring it back to the table next week after some research.
Allen: Asked that documents be attached to the meeting agendas prior to the meeting to allow time to read through resolutions prior to voting on them.
He also gave a shout-out to public works for their work mowing and grading. He also commended the first responders with Sheriff Bill Martin’s collapse last week.
The Lowell Milken Center (LMC) for Unsung Heroes in Fort Scott, Kansas, an international educational non-profit, has awarded its prestigious Fellowship to Magali Turner, a 2023 New Mexico Milken Educator and fifth-grade teacher at Ruben S. Torres Elementary School in Deming, New Mexico. Magali will arrive in Fort Scott on June 21st for a week of collaboration with LMC staff and the other members of the Fellowship.
The LMC Fellowship is a merit-based award for educators of all disciplines who value the importance of teaching respect and understanding through project-based learning. The Center selects exemplary teachers from the United States and around the world who will collaborate on projects that discover, develop, and communicate the stories of Unsung Heroes in history.
Ms. Turner is a passionate fifth-grade educator who is widely recognized for creating a classroom where students feel safe, supported, and motivated to succeed. Known for her enthusiasm for mathematics, she challenges students to think critically while maintaining high expectations that empower them to push beyond perceived limits. By encouraging focus, perseverance, and goal setting, Ms. Turner helps students realize that their effort can open doors to greater opportunities than they may have imagined.
Through creative and engaging instruction, she brings energy to every subject she teaches. Ms. Turner is particularly committed to building strong foundations in math, science, and reading—skills that students carry with them long after they leave her classroom. Her innovative teaching style and dedication to student growth have made a lasting impact on her students and the broader school community.
LMC Executive Director Norm Conard says, “Magali’s enthusiasm for discovering the stories of Unsung Heroes in history will be contagious and will be a great asset as the 2026 Fellows develop their projects.”
While in Fort Scott, LMC Fellows gain knowledge, educational resources, and support in helping students cultivate a passion for learning by creating projects that initiate positive change. Fellows will be equipped to develop Unsung Heroes projects with their students, applying and evaluating the stories of these role models who have changed the world throughout history.
Commerce Invites Jobseekers to Explore New Careers at Upcoming Job Fair
TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, June 25.
“Summer is in full effect — and this season is all about new adventures and new experiences. If you’re looking for a new career, now is the perfect time,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Whether you’re exploring opportunities or looking for your first job, Kansas employers are looking for the next best candidate — and one of them could be you.”
The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.
This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.
Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.
Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, 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.
About KANSASWORKS:
KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services. KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.
