Hay Testing vs. the Cost of Open Cows by Hunter Nickell

Hunter Nickell
Southwind Extension District
Livestock Production Extension Agent
1006 N. State St.
Iola, KS 66749
Office: (620) 365-2242
Cell: (620) 473-3298
nickell99@ksu.edu

Every summer, ranchers cut and bale hay for the winter and don’t think much about it. But the nutritive value of hay is highly variable and not always represented by the visual appraisal of the hay.

The nutritive value of hay is primarily a function of protein concentration and digestibility. The protein in hay is primarily digested by the bacteria in the rumen, which are then digested by the animal in the small intestine, thus providing the animal with the protein it requires. As grasses grow, protein concentration decreases; however, this change is not consistent among grass species or within the same species across years.

Digestibility is a function of the fiber concentration in the grass. There are several types of fiber, but neutral detergent fiber (NDF) and acid detergent fiber (ADF) are two that are related to digestibility. NDF is the total amount of fiber in the plant, and ADF is the amount of poorly digested fiber in the plant. As the total amount of fiber (NDF) increases, the digestibility of the grass decreases, and as the amount of ADF increases, the digestibility of the grass decreases. From the NDF and ADF concentrations in the hay, we can calculate an estimated digestibility (TDN). As grass grows, the NDF and ADF concentrations increase, and, similar to protein concentration, this change is not consistent among species or across years.

Visual appraisal of hay can be deceiving. Bromegrass hay with a high number of leaves and relatively few stems may still show stems indicating that the plant had reached the reproductive stage prior to cutting and baling. The reproductive stage, when seed heads are visible, is one of the later stages of plant growth, indicating that a lesser quality hay will be produced. However, bromegrass hay is usually of relatively high quality.

In one nutritive analysis example, even with a high number of leaves, the protein concentration was quite low, at 6.39%. Feed tables list the protein concentration of bromegrass hay at more than 8%, which meets the protein requirements of mid-gestation dry cows; 6% protein does not. Late-gestation and lactating cows will need a protein supplement to meet their protein requirements, which are 9 to 10%.

The NDF concentration of that hay sample was 63%, and the ADF was 41%. This calculated to an estimated TDN of 51%, which is just enough to meet the energy requirements of mid-gestation dry cows. And with the marginal protein concentration in the hay, the cows will need a protein supplement to digest the hay to the calculated TDN potential of 51%.

Visual appraisal of hay is not always adequate for assessing its nutritional value. Even home-grown hay can have a nutritive value very different from what is expected or from forage analyses from previous years. A basic forage test that will provide protein, NDF, ADF, and TDN concentrations costs $20 to $40 per sample. One sample from each cutting and each field is adequate, but the sample needs to comprise hay from multiple bales. The best way to sample hay for forage analysis is to use a hay probe on a cordless drill and collect a core from 10% of the bales. The $100 to $200 spent on forage analysis is worth the cost of one open cow from feeding hay that results in thin cows at calving. As a reminder, Southwind Extension District has grant funding to cost-share $20 per forage sample. This opportunity is made possible by Bill House Ag Grant Funds from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas.

Thank you to the Beef Cattle Institute at Kansas State University for the content in this article. If you have any additional questions or are interested in testing your hay, give Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent, a call at any of the Southwind Extension District offices or by email at nickell99@ksu.edu. We have a probe in each office and are happy to make field visits to assist our producers!

Gordon Parks Museum Names 2026 Photo Contest Winners

Winners of the Gordon Parks Museum photo contest, sponsored by Merl Humphrey Photography and Don Thompson Images, have been selected. This year’s theme was “Giving a Voice to the Voiceless.”

The contest received 56 entries. First place went to Miles Lynn of Potomac, Md., for “Looking Out.” Second place went to Mia Nance of Wichita, Kan., for “Asking for Help, Helps.” Third place went to Laney Covey of Uniontown, Kan., for “The Music We Pass By.”

Five honorable mentions were named: “Solitude Under the Bridge” by Gary J. Sonnier (Dallas, Texas); “To Be Seen” by Aahliyah Goodridge (Wichita, Kan.); “Voiceless Despair” by Paloma Oropeza (Wichita, Kan.); “Still Here” by Robert D. Little (Stillwater, Okla.); and “Students” by Zoiee Banuelo (Wichita, Kan.).

First, second and third place winners received cash prizes of $200, $75 and $50, respectively.

The photo contest was inspired by Gordon Parks, who used his camera to speak for those unable to speak for themselves. Photographers were invited to capture the essence of the theme.

Judges for the contest were professional photographer Veretta Cobler and established creative director/designer Donna Fumoso.

The photo exhibit will be on display on the Gordon Parks Museum’s Facebook page at facebook.com/fsccgpmuseum and on the museum’s website, gordonparkscenter.org.

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – October 9–10, 2026

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – October 9–10, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 112 calls for service on October 9–10, 2026.

October 9, 2026

Traffic Stop — 12:02 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

27,28,29 Checks — 1:26 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: NR.

Check Vehicle — 4:44 AM, 2108 S Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Records / Criminal History — 7:19 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: NR.

Vehicle Unlock — 7:51 AM, 2122 Poplar Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 7:58 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:18 AM, Clay. Disposition: 77.

EMS — 10:06 AM, 1682 135th, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Traffic Stop — 10:10 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Vin Inspections / County — 10:33 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Lost Property — 10:36 AM, 847 Hickory Rd, Mapleton. Disposition: HBO.

EMS — 10:46 AM, 737 Heylman, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 10:58 AM, 7 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:01 AM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Hit and Run — 11:33 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01624FS. Disposition: RPTA.

EMS / Transfer — 12:03 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Animal Control — 12:03 PM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 12:16 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

911 / Hang Up — 1:08 PM, 601 E 5th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Follow-Up — 1:24 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

Traffic Stop — 1:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Civil Standby — 2:00 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

EMS — 2:50 PM, 915 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Harassment — 3:33 PM, 107 N Eddy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 3:42 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

EMS — 3:44 PM, 10th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 4:16 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 5:42 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

EMS — 5:49 PM, 802 Shepherd St #4, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 5:51 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 5:51 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

SRO — 6:01 PM, 601 E 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: HBO.

EMS / Standby — 6:29 PM, 601 E 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: AMBU.

Accident / Non-Injury — 7:03 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0952BB. Disposition: RPTA.

Disturbance — 7:36 PM, 728 S Wilson St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 8:01 PM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:30 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Suspicious Activity — 8:41 PM, 900 E 3rd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Suspicious Activity — 8:45 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Hit and Run — 8:51 PM, 2305 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01626FS. Disposition: RPTA.

Fraud — 8:56 PM, 20 N Grant St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 9:12 PM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Motorist Assist — 9:43 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 10:34 PM, 101 Old Fort Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Suspicious Activity — 10:34 PM, 802 Shepherd St #16, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Traffic Stop — 10:37 PM, 215th, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:41 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Seeking Advice/Info — 10:41 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 11:12 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:17 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:30 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

October 10, 2026

Traffic Stop — 12:12 AM, Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:31 AM, 1005 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Other Agency Assist — 6:17 AM, 524 S Clark. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 8:38 AM, 3 W Oak St, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 22.

Juvenile — 9:00 AM, 1201 Mulberry, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

27,28,29 Checks — 9:09 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Stop — 9:34 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Domestic / Physical — 10:23 AM, 121 N Washington St. Complaint No. 26-01627FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Train Blocking Tracks — 10:41 AM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 10:43 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:18 AM, 1316 S Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Follow-Up — 11:37 AM, 901 Barbee St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 11:58 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Narcotics — 12:01 PM, 1010 Park Ave, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01628FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Other Agency Assist — 12:10 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 12:26 PM, 209 S State, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01629FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 12:43 PM, 915 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Traffic Complaint — 1:21 PM, 69 Hwy, Linn County. Disposition: 77.

Follow-Up — 1:32 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

EMS / Mutual Aide — 1:49 PM, 706 W 15th St, Pleasanton. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 2:10 PM, 101 S State St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 2:16 PM, 1724 E Pine St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 2:49 PM, Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

EMS / Transfer — 3:07 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 3:22 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Hang Up — 3:56 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Parking Complaint — 5:02 PM, 309 S Little St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Public Assist — 5:13 PM, 911 E 6th St. Disposition: HBO.

Fire / Other — 6:06 PM, 1300 N Click, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

Traffic Stop — 6:14 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Fire / All Call — 6:15 PM, 1604 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: FIRE.

911 / Accidental — 6:18 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Stop — 6:39 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Seeking Advice/Info / County — 6:40 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Dead Animal Pickup/Debris — 6:54 PM, 6th St. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:05 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Juvenile — 7:14 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:18 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:28 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:31 PM, Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:42 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:56 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:16 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:39 PM, 523 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:50 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:51 PM, Hidden Valley Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Pursuit — 8:58 PM, Yale Rd. Complaint No. 26-0954BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 9:20 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Found Property — 9:31 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 9:42 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

EMS — 9:45 PM, 1752 255th, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Shots Fired — 10:42 PM, 1605 Maple. Disposition: 77.

EMS — 10:43 PM, 802 Shepherd St #4, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Traffic Stop — 11:10 PM, 3rd St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:16 PM, 12th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:18 PM, 1789 Hwy 54, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:25 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Foot Patrol — 11:29 PM, 2011 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 11:45 PM, 1920 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0955BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 11:52 PM, 415 College, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01630FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Follow-Up — 11:56 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Total Calls for Service: 112

Documents:

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – October 11, 2026

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – October 11, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 47 calls for service on October 11, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Trespassing — 7:29 AM, Locust Rd, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0956BB. Disposition: RPTG.

PFA Violation — 8:51 AM, 121 N Washington St. Complaint No. 26-01631FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Juvenile — 9:32 AM, 1898 Limestone Rd, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0957BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Domestic / Physical — 4:29 PM, 215 W 5th St #8, Redfield. Complaint No. 26-0958BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Check Subject — 6:15 PM, 206 S Judson. Complaint No. 26-01632FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Runaway — 6:21 PM, 2495 Locust Rd, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0959BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Check Vehicle — 11:37 PM, 3 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0960BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 1:10 AM, 848 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 5:25 AM, 842 S Crawford. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 6:50 AM, 737 Heylman, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 8:51 AM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Other — 10:58 AM, 310 Cleveland, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

Fire / Other — 1:45 PM, 1510 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 5:18 PM, 1617 Poplar Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Other — 5:48 PM, 419 W Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 6:11 PM, 1562 Maple. Disposition: AMBU.

Other Calls for Service

Disturbance — 1:26 AM, Crawford. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 1:35 AM, 2000 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 1:43 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 2:06 AM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / County — 7:30 AM, 240th. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:10 AM, 2111 Locust Rd. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 9:55 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control / Dead Animal Pick Up — 10:06 AM, Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:22 AM, 1010 Park Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 12:26 PM, 1310 S Horton St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 1:17 PM, 1151 4800, Allen Co. Disposition: HBO.

Motorist Assist — 1:27 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Follow-Up — 1:49 PM, 617 Lowman St. Disposition: 22.

911 / Hang Up — 3:41 PM, 23 W 1st St, Fort Scott. Disposition: NR.

27,28,29 Checks — 4:17 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 5:13 PM, 1121 E Elm, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Found Property — 6:06 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:36 PM, 206 S Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:56 PM, 758 Clark, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Assault — 10:03 PM, 501 Fairway, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 10:21 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Check Vehicle — 10:53 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 12:02 AM, 12th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:37 AM, 3rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:48 AM, 3rd St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:21 PM, 12th St. Disposition: NTA.

Traffic Stop — 9:16 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:27 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 9:32 PM, 2207 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:38 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:05 PM, 240th, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Total Calls for Service: 47

Documents:

Uniontown City Council Meeting – Oct. 13, 2026, 7 PM

Uniontown City Hall and community building. 2023

Uniontown City Council Meeting

The Uniontown City Council will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Uniontown Community Center.

  • Call to Order / Roll Call (Kyle Knight, Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Bradley Stewart, Jess Ervin)
  • Special Considerations/Projects
  • Citizens Requests
  • Financial Report – Sally Johnson
  • Approve Consent Agenda
    • A. Minutes of September 8, 2026 Regular Council Meeting
    • B. Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
  • Department Reports
    • Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
    • Superintendent: Bobby Rich – Library Books in Shop
    • Clerk Report: Haley Arnold – Trunk-r-Treat; CRWD2 Water Rate Increase
  • Council & Committee Reports: Councilman Knight, Councilwoman Kelly, Councilwoman Pemberton, Councilman Stewart, Councilman Ervin, Mayor Jurgensen
  • Old Business
    • Dog Ordinance Review and Discussion
    • Waterway Project
  • New Business
  • Adjourn

September 8, 2026 – Regular Council Meeting Minutes

September 8, 2026 – Uniontown Community Center

The Regular Council Meeting on September 08, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Mary Pemberton, Kyle Knight, Bradley Stewart and newly appointed council member Jess Ervin. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Joe George, Betty Dennis, Loretta George, Casie Herrmann, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

Special Considerations/Projects

Mayor Jurgensen suggested that Jess Ervin be appointed to fill the vacant council position.

Motion by Stewart, Second by Knight, Approved 3-0, to approve Jess Ervin to fill the vacant spot on the Council.

Jess Ervin was sworn in and administered the Oath of Office as a member of the City Council.

Citizens Request

None reported.

Financial Report

Treasurer Johnson presented the August 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $228,979.05, Receipts $26,173.94, Transfers Out $6,774.25, Expenditures $45,108.12, Checking Account Closing Balance $203,270.62. Bank Statement Balance $203,330.65, including Checking Account Interest of $47.82, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $60.03, Reconciled Balance $203,270.62. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,929.74, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,783.10, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $51,506.03, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $323,489.49. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $407.38, and Utility CDs $2,071.88 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,479.26. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of August 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. August Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Capital Improvement-Streets from General Fund $3,750.00 for Total Transfers of $6,774.25. Net loss for the month of August $25,708.43, Year-to-Date Net Income $2,525.16. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $94,980.18 (73.4%), Expenditures $66,817.53 (50.7%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $27,926.20 (77.4%), Expenditures $21,134.15 (49.5%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $80,511.35 (64.7%), Expenditures $70,700.98 (49.6%); General Fund YTD Revenue $96,304.66 (65.4%), Expenditures $116,874.89 (49.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $6,054.18 (83.0%), Expenditures $5,524.08 (49.4%). The payables for the period of August 12, 2026, through September 08, 2026, reflected payables in the amount of $31,581.04. The invoice from KMGA had not been received by noon meeting day.

Consent Agenda

Motion by Pemberton, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of August 11, 2026, 2027 Budget Hearing and Regular Meeting
  • August Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & September Accounts Payables

Department Reports

Codes Officer Doug Coyan was absent from the meeting but had previously submitted an email regarding code enforcement matters. Clerk Arnold reviewed the email with the Council. One concern discussed was the overgrown vegetation at 101 Washington. Following discussion of previous encounters with the property owner, the Council decided to send a letter advising the property owner to weed-eat the overgrown vegetation around the property. Another property of concern was 202 4th Street, where little improvement had been made to the property. Council Member Knight volunteered, as a private individual, to assist with the cleanup of the property if the property owners agreed to the assistance. Clerk Arnold stated that she would contact the property owners to determine whether they would be interested in the offer of assistance. The Council decided that no further action would be taken regarding the property until the court proceedings were completed.

Mayor Jurgensen thanked Superintendent Rich for his hard work and efforts in preparing the City for the Labor Day weekend celebration. Mayor Jurgensen also asked Superintendent Rich how the citywide cleanup went. Superintendent Rich stated that the dumpsters were not utilized as much this time as they had been in the past.

Clerk Arnold presented the 2025 audit prepared by DBB Inc. to the Council for review. The Council discussed the audit.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to approve the 2025 audit prepared by DBB Inc.

Clerk Arnold presented the Council with a donation request letter from the Uniontown Booster Club and asked if the Council wished to make a donation. The Council declined to make a donation at this time.

Arnold informed the Council that, due to an issue with QuickBooks, Council checks would not be distributed at the meeting. The checks will be distributed once the issue has been resolved.

Council Reports

Councilman Knight – none
Councilwoman Kelly – absent
Councilwoman Pemberton – none
Councilman Stewart – none
Councilman Ervin – none

Mayor Jurgensen – He thanked the Old Settlers Committee and all volunteers for their hard work in organizing the Labor Day weekend celebration for the community. Special thanks were extended to Mary Pillion, Mike Ramsey, Rhonda DeWitt, Marty DeWitt, and all other volunteers who helped make the weekend possible. Appreciation was also extended to the individuals who organized the Dale Jackson Car Show and the rodeos held during the weekend. Council Member Knight thanked Mayor Jurgensen for handing out bicycles during the bike raffle.

Mayor Jurgensen reported that he has been in communication with the City’s technology representative, Mark Warren, regarding getting Wi-Fi established in the park. Clerk Arnold has ordered the necessary equipment, and the items have been received. Discussion has also taken place with Kelly Electric regarding the details of adding additional electrical outlets in the park to accommodate the Christmas in the Park decorations and Wi-Fi equipment for the cameras.

Clerk Arnold informed the Council of a dog ordinance violation concerning the property located at 401 2nd Street due to the number of dogs residing at the property. The property owner submitted a letter to the Council outlining her plans to bring the property into compliance with City ordinances. The property owner also requested that the Council grant an exception allowing her to keep four dogs, rather than the maximum of three allowed by City ordinance. Discussion on the matter followed.

Motion by Stewart, second by Pemberton, approved 4-0, to allow the property owner 45 days to reduce the number of dogs on the property to four and allow the owner to keep the fourth dog. Once the number of dogs is reduced to three, no additional dogs may be added that would cause the property to exceed the three-dog limit.

Old Business

Dog Ordinance Review and Discussion – The Council discussed suggestions and proposed amendments to the draft presented at the previous meeting. The Council agreed that Clerk Arnold would prepare the final draft and submit it to the City Attorney for review. The final draft will be presented to the Council for approval at a later date.

Waterway Project – Mayor Jurgensen stated that he had spoken with Mitch Crystal, who had forwarded the information to another surveyor. No response had been received at this time regarding the matter.

New Business

Motion by Stewart, Second by Knight, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss applicants and conduct interviews for non-elected personnel position, the open meeting to resume at 8:35PM.

Meeting resumed back at 8:35PM.

No action from executive session.

Adjournment

Moved by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:35PM.


September Treasurer’s/Financial Report

Treasurer’s Report – September 2026 (Monthly Transactions): Gas Utility: Beginning Bal. $(29,842.75), Receipts $3,240.82, Expenditures $7,395.27, Ending Bal. $(33,997.20). Water Utility: Beginning Bal. $(15,091.33), Receipts $11,414.50, Transfers Out $1,624.00, Expenditures $9,631.67, Ending Bal. $(14,932.50). Sewer Utility: Beginning Bal. $(17,654.81), Receipts $3,506.91, Expenditures $772.12, Ending Bal. $(14,920.02). General Fund: Beginning Bal. $75,754.56, Receipts $20,825.63, Expenditures $8,654.11, Ending Bal. $87,926.08. Special Highway: Beginning Bal. $5,250.73, Expenditures $625.42, Ending Bal. $4,625.31. Water Bond & Interest: Beginning Bal. $13,029.18, Receipts $1,624.00, Ending Bal. $14,653.18. Sewer Revolving Loan: Ending Bal. $2.92. Capital Improvements: $156,673.04 (Unspecified $56,139.93, Streets $100,533.11). Donations/Fundraisers: $1,293.33. Meter Deposits: Beginning Bal. $13,855.75, Receipts $100.00, Ending Bal. $13,955.75. QB Payroll Tax Deposits: Expenditures $5,104.66, Ending Bal. $(5,104.66). Total of all Accounts: Beginning Bal. $203,270.62, Receipts $40,711.86, Transfers Out $1,624.00, Expenditures $32,183.25, Ending Bal. $210,175.23.

Bank Reconciliation: Bank Statement $210,265.27, Deposits Not Credited $0.00, Outstanding Checks $90.04, Ending Balance $210,175.23. Check Account Interest $42.59. Water Utility CD $43,961.17, Sewer Utility CD $24,783.10, Gas Utility CD’s $51,537.46, Total of All Funds $330,456.96. YTD Checking Account Interest $449.97, YTD Interest on Utility CD’s $2,134.74, Total $2,584.71. Transfers: Sewer Revolving Loan from Sewer Utility $0.00; GO Water Bond & Interest from Water Utility $1,624.00; Total Transfers $1,624.00. Net Income (September): $6,904.61. YTD Net Income: $9,429.77.

Quarter 3, 2026 Summary: Total of all Accounts: Beginning Bal. $249,800.06, Receipts $96,345.06, Transfers Out $11,422.50, Expenditures $124,547.39, Ending Bal. $210,175.23. Total of All Funds (with CDs): Beginning $369,348.30, Ending $330,456.96. Net Income for Quarter 3: $(39,624.83). YTD Net Income: $9,429.77.

Budget vs. Actual – General Fund (001): Cash Balance $96,324.79 vs. Budget $146,644.00 (Difference $(50,319.21)). Total Revenue YTD $117,130.29 of $147,330.00 budgeted (79.5%). Total Expenditures YTD $125,529.00 of $234,858.00 budgeted (53.4%). Income Over Expenses YTD $(8,398.71). Unencumbered Requirement: $49,458.00.

Special Highway (110): Cash Balance $4,720.63. Total Revenue YTD $6,054.18 of $7,290.00 budgeted (83.0%). Total Expenditures YTD $6,149.50 of $11,191.00 budgeted (55.0%). Income Over Expenses YTD $(95.32).

Gas Utility Fund (300): Cash Balance $(6,499.37) including CD vs. budget $30,961.00. Total Revenue YTD $98,252.43 of $129,374.00 budgeted (75.9%). Total Expenditures YTD $74,212.80 of $131,830.00 budgeted (56.3%). Gas Utility CD’s $51,537.46. Unencumbered Requirement $3,773.00. Ending Balance with CD $17,540.26.

Water Utility Fund (310): Cash Balance $19,003.04 including CD vs. budget $39,127.00. Total Revenue YTD $91,932.28 of $124,435.00 budgeted (73.9%). Total Expenditures YTD $81,956.65 of $142,643.00 budgeted (57.5%). Water Utility CD $43,961.17. Unencumbered Requirement $8,773.00. Ending Balance with CD $28,978.67.

Sewer Utility Fund (320): Cash Balance $336.24 including CD vs. budget $4,309.00. Total Revenue YTD $31,433.11 of $36,100.00 budgeted (87.1%). Total Expenditures YTD $21,906.27 of $42,698.00 budgeted (51.3%). Sewer Utility CD $24,783.10. Unencumbered Requirement $6,092.00. Ending Balance with CD $9,863.08.

Full Profit & Loss by Class detail (income and expenses broken out by city department — General Operating, Community Center, Animal Control, Municipal Court, Codes Enforcement, Parks & Rec, Street Lighting & Traffic Signal, Governing Body, Administrative, and General Operating funds) is available in the attached financial report.


Documents:

Chamber Hosts 2026 Candidate Forum Oct. 14

Meet the candidates and hear their perspectives on issues important to our community! The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites the public to attend the 2026 General Election Candidate Forum.

Wednesday, October 14, 2026

Empress Event Center
17 S. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott

Doors open & Candidate Meet & Greet
5:30 p.m.

Candidate Forum
6 p.m.

The moderated forum will cover federal, state, and local races, with candidate statements and questions submitted by the public and event committee.

Have a question you would like considered?

Email your questions to communications@fortscott.com by 5 p.m. Tuesday, October 13. Questions will not be shared with candidates before the forum.

Unable to attend in person? Watch the livestream on the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook page.

Entrances are available at both the front and back of the Empress Event Center.

Join us for an opportunity to learn more about the candidates ahead of the general election!

For more information:
(620) 223-3566
communications@fortscott.com

2026 General Election Candidate Forum, Wednesday, October 14

2026 General Election Candidate Forum, Wednesday, October 14, Empress Event Center, Doors Open 5:30 p.m., Forum Begins 6 p.m.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
620-223-3566
fortscott.com

Bourbon County Commission Agenda Summary for October 9, 2026 Meeting

Bourbon County Commission

Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting Agenda – October 9, 2026, 12:15 PM

agenda-packet (full PDF)

  • I. Call Meeting To Order (Page 1)
  • II. Pledge Of Allegiance (Page 1)
  • III. Prayer (Page 1)
  • IV. Introductions (Page 1)
  • V. Approval Of Agenda (Page 1)
  • VI. Address Cancellation and Reschedule of 10/12/2026 Columbus Day Holiday Meeting (Page 1)
  • VII. Adjournment (Page 1)

Detailed Information Packet Summary

This brief special meeting was called solely to address the cancellation and rescheduling of the regular commission meeting that would otherwise fall on the Columbus Day holiday, Monday, October 12, 2026. The one-page agenda runs from 12:15 to 12:30 p.m. at the county administration building, 210 S. National Ave., Fort Scott, and includes standard opening items — call to order, pledge of allegiance, prayer, introductions, and agenda approval — before the commission takes up the holiday-meeting rescheduling and adjourns.

1. Columbus Day Holiday Meeting Cancellation & Reschedule (Page 1)

  • Commissioners discuss and act on canceling and rescheduling the regular meeting originally set for Monday, October 12, 2026, which falls on the Columbus Day holiday.

What’s Happening in Fort Scott This Weekend (Oct. 10-12)

A LOT is happening around Fort Scott this weekend! Here’s what’s happening Saturday, October 10 and later, from the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce.

Saturday, October 10

Historic Trolley Tours
Ride Dolly the Trolley and explore Fort Scott’s history with a narrated tour. Fridays & Saturdays – Now Boarding!

Trolley Tours - Fridays and Saturdays

Fort Scott Farmers Market
⏰ 8 a.m. to Noon
Gathering Square Pavilion
Shop fresh produce, local products, and more!

Royal-Tea Friends Party
Hosted by FSHS Thespians
⏰ 10 a.m. to Noon
Fort Scott High School Commons
$6 per child
Games, crafts, treats, and favorite characters portrayed by FSHS Thespians! Children of all ages welcome with an accompanying adult. Costumes encouraged!

Care to Share Trap Shoot
⏰ 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Support a great cause while enjoying a day of shooting sports!

EKTEC Rodeo
⏰ 11 a.m.
Bourbon County Fairgrounds
Eastern Kansas Timed Event Circuit rodeo competition!

Community Daddy-Daughter Dance
⏰ Dinner begins at 5 p.m.
⏰ Dance begins at 6:30 p.m., ends at 9:30 p.m.
Memorial Hall, 1 E. 3rd St.
Dance: $15 per couple, $5 per additional child
Dinner & Dance: $45 per couple, $15 per additional child
Enjoy dancing, activities, a photo booth, and a memorable evening together!

ScareFest Haunted House
⏰ 7 to 11 p.m.
753 S. Clark St.
$1 donation

Halloween Light Display
Clark Street Lights, 753 S. Clark St.

Sunday, October 11

EKTEC Rodeo
⏰ 11 a.m.
Bourbon County Fairgrounds
Second day of rodeo competition!

Halloween Light Display
Clark Street Lights, 753 S. Clark St.

Monday, October 12

Columbus Day
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce office will be closed in observance of the holiday. We will reopen Tuesday, October 13, with regular business hours.

Save the Date

Shop, Stroll, Sip & Celebrate Fall in Fort Scott! The Fort Scott Fall Boutique Crawl is Saturday, October 17 — boutique shopping in beautiful downtown Fort Scott.

Fort Scott Fall Boutique Crawl, Saturday October 17

Behind the Doors: Historic Herbert House Tours — Fort Scott, Kansas. Upcoming tour dates: Oct. 24 and Nov. 21, 2026. $10 per person. Reserve at fortscott.com.

Behind the Doors: Historic Herbert House Tours

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees are held every Thursday at 8 a.m.

See more events and details at fortscott.com/events.

Shopping ~ Support Local!

Boutiques, antiques, flea markets and more! Visit fortscott.com/events/calendar/ for the Chamber’s full community calendar of Chamber member specialty shopping and other retail in downtown and other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701 | 620-223-3566 | fortscott.com

Short on Words by Patty LaRoche

Patty LaRoche

Knowing what to say and when to say it is critical to good communication. Recently, a friend told me that she had shared something with a pastor’s wife that backfired. There now is a coldness in their relationship that was not there before. My friend wishes she could rewind that situation and keep her mouth shut.

I typically am not short on words, but sometimes I struggle with not saying enough, and before those of you who know me well laugh, let me explain. I need to say more about Jesus. I want to. I want to be the one who goes into the gas station and ends up baptizing the clerk in the creek behind the store. I want to enter the restaurant and leave with a plan to pick up my waitress for church on Sunday. I want to stop when I see a homeless person and bring her to my house where I lead her to Christ. I want to save people.

I seem to forget that it’s not my job to convince people or convert people or save people. I might not (probably will not) have the perfect words that produce an Aha! moment for my listeners to realize that Jesus is the answer for all their problems. I might share what He has done in my life, but what do I do when they say, “Well, good for you, but it’s not for me”?

Maybe nothing except to continue to love them, invite them, and to recognize that I am not their saver. The one who convinces, converts and saves is the Holy Spirit, not me. What I can do is be prepared. For example, when I meet people who say that they will make it to Heaven because they are good people, I can share a story someone sent me.

If you answered your door and someone on your porch said (s)he wanted to come in, you would tell them that you do not let strangers in your house. If that person said, “Well, I’m a really good person” and proved it by telling you of kind works (s)he had done, it would not make a difference. You have no relationship with that person. The same is true with God. Good works are not the ticket to Heaven. Loving God is.

Or let’s say someone tells me that Jesus isn’t real. My answer to that might be, “If he isn’t real, then why is his name the only name governments ban, cultures mock, demons fear, and persecuted believers cling to with their lives? You don’t silence a name unless it carries power.”

What I can tell non-believers is something posted on social media: God loves you more than you know; please don’t judge Jesus by people who have represented him poorly; you were created for a purpose; your questions don’t scare God; following Jesus may cost you something, but living without him will cost you infinitely more; and I would rather risk making things awkward by telling you about Jesus than stay silent about the One I know gives eternal life.

We Christians probably would agree that those are powerful words to share. The problem is…will we?

Patty A. LaRoche

Uniontown USD 235 Board Meeting Set for Oct. 12

The Uniontown USD 235 Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting at 7:00 p.m. Monday, October 12, 2026, in the UJHS/UHS Commons Area in Uniontown. The full agenda packet, including September 2026 financial reports, is attached below.

Agenda

I. Call to Order

  • District Mission Statement
  • Approve the Agenda
  • Review and approve the September 14, 2026 Regular meeting minutes, Revenue Neutral Rate meeting minutes and Budget meeting minutes — see minutes, page 4

II. Consent Agenda

III. Informational Items

  • Audience with patrons
  • KASB Convention
  • At-Risk Accountability Plans
  • Wellness Policy
  • Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
  • Bond/Capital Projects
  • Vehicle Purchases
  • Strategic Plan
  • Third-party Accountant/Audit
  • Administrative Reports — Mr. Eden, Mr. Onelio, Mr. Miller & Mrs. Mason

IV. Action Items

  • Approve Wellness Policy
  • Approve Cardiac Emergency Response Plan
  • Approve Transit Van Purchase
  • Approve Special Education Van Purchase
  • Approve 3rd Party Audit Accountant

V. Executive Session — Personnel

VI. Adjournment

The next regular board meeting is set for Monday, November 9, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.

September 14, 2026 minutes recap

The board approved the August 10, 2026 minutes and the Consent Agenda, including payment of bills totaling $710,340.74, July and August 2026 treasurer’s reports, and a surplus equipment list. Rich Proffitt of Greenbush presented a possible timeline for the superintendent search, and Superintendent Vance Eden gave updates on the Strategic Plan, Bond Projects, and KASB Annual Convention registration. Principals Robert Onelio and Dustin Miller gave administrative reports.

The board adopted the 2026-2027 budget and Local Option Budget rate of 32.4% under Resolution 2026.9-2, and went into executive session to discuss an individual employee’s performance under the non-elected personnel exception of the Kansas Open Meetings Act. A motion to amend the WBE water bottle policy failed for lack of a second. The board approved Randy Rathbun as a vehicle driver and Rob Hodgkinson as a bus driver for the remainder of the 2026-2027 school year, accepted the resignations of custodian Dustin Willard (effective September 25) and assistant wrestling coach Kane Shepard, and approved Dallas Masoner as junior high head track coach for the upcoming season. The meeting adjourned at 8:40 p.m.

At a separate Revenue Neutral Rate hearing the same evening, the board adopted Resolution 2026.9 to exceed the 2026-2027 revenue neutral rate; no patrons addressed the board at either that hearing or the subsequent budget hearing.

Full financial detail — the September 2026 check register, cash receipt listing, cash flow report and monthly expenditure report by function — is included in the attached packet.

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – Oct. 9, 2026

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Report

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – October 9, 2026

Arrested

McRenolds, Curtis D (Age 43) — Arrested 10/8/2026 5:56 PM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charge: Transporting an open container. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Released

Brown, Shelby — Released 10/8/2026 8:41 AM via Transferred Out (Transferred to KDOC).

Total Inmates Released: 1

Documents:

USD 234 Board Meeting Agenda, Oct. 12

USD 234 Board of Education Building, 424 S. Main

The USD 234 Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 5:30 p.m. at the Board Office, 424 S. Main, Fort Scott.

The full meeting agenda is attached. Agenda items include:

  • 1.0 Call Meeting to Order – David Stewart, President
  • 2.0 Flag Salute
  • 3.0 Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
  • 4.0 Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item), including:
    • 4.1 Board Minutes – 09-14-26 and 09-26-26
    • 4.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report
    • 4.3 Check Register
    • 4.4 Payroll – September 20, 2026 – $1,836,161.73
    • 4.5 Activity Funds Accounts
    • 4.6 USD 234 Gifts
  • 5.0 Presentations – Officer Garrett, Officer Carpenter; Kevin Flanner and students (JAG)
  • 6.0 Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)
  • 7.0 New Business:
    • 7.1 Preschool Project Update (Information/discussion)
    • 7.2 Kansas Association of School Boards Legal Assistance Fund (Action)
    • 7.3 Vehicle Purchase – 2023 Chrysler Voyager (Action)
    • 7.4 MOU with Headstart/USD 234 (Action)
    • 7.5 Board Policy FC – Memorials and Naming of District Facilities (Discussion)
  • 8.0 Public Forum
  • 9.0 Other Business – Personnel Matters:
    • 9.1 Enter Executive Session – Legal Matters (Action Item)
    • 9.2 Exit Executive Session
    • 9.3 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)
    • 9.4 Exit Executive Session
    • 9.5 Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)
  • 10.0 Adjourn Meeting – David Stewart, President

Bourbon County Local News