Bourbon County, Business, Food

Bronson Micro Grocery Store Is Transitioning

Leave a comment
Perry’s Country Store. Submitted photo.

Thaddeus and Kelly Perry’s business, Perry’s Country Store in Bronson, is changing focus.

 

“Our physical location in Bronson will no longer operate as it has. We are shifting the space to what it was originally designed for — production and distribution,” Kelly Perry said. “This is not a light decision, but for the first time in a long time, I 100% believe this is God opening and closing doors and bringing partnerships and networks full circle, and I’ve never felt peace like I have this last week and here is why.”

Monday through Friday we will be growing and expanding Perry’s Pork Rinds nationally.

 

“The physical storefront will still offer pork rinds, Perry’s Produce Boxes, bulk produce buying through online pre-orders, and our seasonal fruit like Colorado peaches, Florida strawberries, Oregon blueberries, Washington cherries, and the spring flower baskets and mums in the fall and similar offerings. That piece isn’t going away — it’s simply becoming more structured so it works long term and will likely occur on the second Saturday of each month. I’ll be inviting food trucks on those days, and others to set up in the parking lot and make it a monthly community event.”

“Monday through Friday we will be growing and expanding Perry’s Pork Rinds nationally.”

 

“Because of this shift, we’ll be liquidating all items not directly related to the pork rind business,” she said.  “The red retro tables will stay; they have been an item that was here in the original fuel station. Food, small and large equipment, decor, and shelving.  All of it will be for sale.  I’m posting smaller items on my personal Facebook page now, and I’ll likely have my big list of large equipment posted online today on our new Facebook page that is dedicated to JUST the Perry’s Country Store https://www.facebook.com/perryscountrystore/ .”

“I truly believe this transition is part of a bigger path we have prayed and worked so hard for since starting in 2017,” she said. “The goal hasn’t changed: support rural communities while building something sustainable for our family and future job growth.”

Her husband and co-owner, Thaddeus, is having a catfish fry this weekend, which will start the markdown pricing of food items in the store.

“Pre-orders are now open for the Sweet T’s Fried Catfish event this Saturday, February 21,” she said. “The pre-orders will close at noon on  Feb 19! www.PerrysPorkRinds.com During this event, we will start our in-store markdowns of candy, canned goods, jar items, jams, frozen pies, meats, etc. ”

“All things Perry’s Pork Rinds will be posted on our normal Perry’s Pork Rind Facebook Page https://www.facebook.com/PerrysPorkRinds. We encourage our locals to PLEASE add the new Perry’s Country Store page to learn of fruits, veggies, and event day info.  I will not bog down the Pork Rinds Page with these posts.”

 

Granddads Groceries Coming

Discounted bulk groceries will soon be offered through Perry’s Country Store.

“About a year ago, I met with a company that distributes deeply discounted bulk groceries. At the time, logistics didn’t work out. I reached back out just on faith and asked if they would reconsider a community drop location here so both Bourbon and Allen County residents could benefit since the closing of the Marmaton Market in Moran and now our Micro Grocery Store in Bronson — and they said yes.”

Perry’s Country Store will be a new pick-up location for Grandad’s Groceries, a discounted bulk grocer that delivers to locations in our area.

“It allows continued food access locally without pulling focus, time, or capital away from growing Perry’s Pork Rinds.  Here is a video link for what will be coming https://youtu.be/DnWRnA1ctrE  and Perry’s parking lot will be the pick up location for Grandad’s Groceries.  https://www.granddadsgroceries.com/ ”

 

Fort Scott Community College, Sports

FSCC Softball Opens Season with Sweep of Avila University JV

Leave a comment

 

 

 

Fort Scott, KS – The Fort Scott softball team opened the 2026 season in strong fashion on Feb. 12, sweeping Avila University JV in a doubleheader on the road. Fort Scott secured a 12-4 victory in Game 1 and followed with a 7-2 win in Game 2 to start the year 2-0.

In the opener, Fort Scott’s offense came out swinging, tallying 13 hits and 12 runs. Kylee Goad led the charge with five RBIs, while Madelyn Burkdick and Chloe Shoemaker each added multiple hits. Aubrey Kinsey earned the win in the circle, pitching six innings with three strikeouts.

Game 2 saw another balanced effort from Fort Scott, which recorded 12 hits in the 7-2 victory. Madelyn Burkdick collected two RBIs, and Amia Carr and Bailey Couch also contributed key runs batted in. Makenna Lawson picked up the win, throwing six strong innings with seven strikeouts, while Kaylyne Gregg closed out the game in relief.

Head Coach praised the team’s complete performance across both contests.

“Opening the season with two wins over Avila University JV was a great way to start, and it was truly a total team effort,” the coach said. “Everyone contributed in their own way, and I’m proud of how we pulled it together to get the job done. We know there’s still a lot of work ahead of us, but this was a strong first step for our team.”

Fort Scott showcased depth throughout the lineup and in the pitching staff, combining timely hitting, aggressive baserunning and solid defense to secure the sweep.

The team will look to build on its momentum as the season continues.

 

 

Government, Kansas

Legislative Update by Ks State Senator Caryn Tyson

Leave a comment
Caryn Tyson
February 13, 2026
School Funding has been a long-standing important issue, and with the current formula set to expire, it will remain a key topic for this session and next.  One issue that would be addressed by SB 387 is requiring income verification for the at-risk program that uses free or reduced lunch counts to calculate funding amounts.  It addresses concerns raised in a nonpartisan Legislative Post Audit, which found that the free or reduced lunch count is overstating the poverty counts and funding.  SB 387 would require income verification, with districts being reimbursed for accurate verification of costs.  Parents not willing to answer income verification may not be eligible for reduced costs.  Families already verified through programs like SNAP would be eligible without additional verification.  The Legislative Post Audit (https://kslegislature.gov/li/b2025_26/committees/ctte_s_government_efficiency_1/documents/testimony/20260128_01.pdf)  confirms that the free lunch count no longer accurately reflects poverty levels in Kansas schools and recommends that the Legislature reconsider how at-risk funding is allocated.  SB 387 addresses some of the concerns.  It passed the Senate 22-18 and was sent to the House.  I voted yes.
Victim Protection from convicted felons who committed serious crimes would increase if SB 358 is passed into law.  SB 358 would require those felons be held in jail without bond until they are sentenced.  The bill passed the Senate unanimously and was sent to the House.
K‑TRACS is Kansas’s prescription‑monitoring database.  Under current law, only a narrowly defined group of users may access it, helping protect your prescription information.  The Kansas Board of Pharmacy, however, is granted authority to broaden that access through the rules and regulations process.  SB 322, introduced at the request of the Joint Committee on Rules and Regulations after hearing proposed expansion by the board, would strip the Board of that authority, keeping K‑TRACS limited to its present user class.  The bill sailed through the Senate unanimously and awaits consideration in the House.
Golf Carts could be allowed on city sidewalks if SB 367 would become law and if local governments approve.  There was debate about requiring carts only to go to and from a golf course, but it just makes sense to let the locals decide.  They may want to allow people to drive a golf cart on a sidewalk to go to the store, church, or elsewhere in town.  Current state law prohibits golf carts from being driven on sidewalks.  It passed unanimously and was sent to the House.
Director of the Office of Early Childhood, lives in Missouri and has indicated she does not plan to relocate to Kansas while serving in the role.  She was confirmed by a narrow vote, 21 to 19.  Elected officials are required to reside in the district they represent, but apparently this appointment does not have to live in Kansas.  It raises several concerns.  This Director will shape policies that impact Kansans, so what happens when a personal, business, or financial conflict arises?  Where will her primary allegiance be to Kansas or to her home state of Missouri?  To top it off, some senators – who have expressed frustration over the lack of appointments from their regions – nonetheless defended this nomination and voted to confirm a Missouri resident.  I voted no.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
Fort Scott Community College, Opinion

From the Bleachers-751 by Dr. Jack Welch

1 Comment

FROM THE BLEACHERS-751

BY DR. JACK WELCH

When Efficient Leadership Feels Uncomfortable

Efficient leadership can feel uncomfortable. It can sound firm. Sometimes it even gets labeled as heavy-handed, especially in organizations that have operated the same way for a long time. When leaders begin realigning systems, expectations, and processes, the shift can feel sudden. Discomfort doesn’t automatically mean something is wrong. Often, it means something important is changing.

Most organizations needing realignment aren’t broken. They’re simply out of sync. Over time, good intentions can be slowed by unclear roles, outdated practices, and layers of process that no longer serve the mission. Efficient leadership steps in not to criticize the past, but to prepare the organization for what’s ahead.

Realignment requires moving away from purely top-down, task-focused leadership and toward a people-centered approach built on clarity, trust, and collaboration. That starts with a clearly defined vision. People want to know where they’re going and why it matters. When leaders communicate that vision consistently and transparently, uncertainty fades and confidence grows.

People-centered leadership also means empathy, listening, acknowledging concerns, and understanding that change affects everyone differently. At the same time, efficiency depends on shared responsibility. Clear expectations help teams work together with purpose, not confusion. When roles are understood and accountability is fair, people are better positioned to succeed.

Agility matters as well. Organizations must be able to adapt, make informed decisions, and adjust without losing momentum. Technology and data, when used well, can simplify work, reduce friction, and give leaders and teams better insight into what’s working and what needs attention.

Personnel changes and process adjustments are often the hardest part of realignment. Leaders must communicate openly, involve people in the transition, and provide training and support. Going slow in these moments, listening carefully and explaining decisions, often allows organizations to move faster and more effectively in the long run.

From the bleachers, structure can look restrictive. In reality, efficient leadership is about alignment, not control. It’s about creating an environment where people understand the mission, trust the direction, and have the tools to do their work well. Realignment isn’t about fault, it’s about focus. Focus is what allows an organization to move forward together.

Thought for the Week, “Change isn’t a judgment on where you’ve been, it’s a commitment to where you’re going.” Jimmy Shuck, Assistant Superintendent of Schools, Copperas Cove, Texas.

Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.

Area News, Health Care

Nevada Hospital Offers Free, Take-home Colon Cancer Screening Kits

Leave a comment

 

 NRMC to Make Free Colon Kits Available

 

 

 

Nevada Regional Medical Center is joining other healthcare organizations around the country to observe Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month during March.  Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer worldwide, with about 2 million cases diagnosed each year. It is the second leading cause of cancer death despite the fact that effective screening techniques exist that can greatly reduce the number of deaths.

NRMC Internal Medicine physician, Dr. John Fox recently said, “The good news is that a simple colonoscopy allows a physician to quickly spot and remove polyps before they ever become cancerous.  It’s one of the few cancers that we can spot early and deal with before it becomes a problem.”

NRMC will have free, take home colon cancer screening kits available to the public starting Monday, March 2nd, throughout the month as supplies last.  The kits can be picked up any weekday between 8:00 and 4:30 at the Information Desk in the hospital’s main lobby.  Instructions on how to mail in the samples are provided with the kits.  For further information the public is asked to call 417-448-3710.

 

 

###

About Nevada Regional Medical Center
Serving a six-county area since 1937, NRMC is a 71-bed acute, intensive and skilled care hospital providing comprehensive health care services.  Staff represent more than a dozen medical specialties including ear, nose & throat, family practice, general surgery, gynecology, internal medicine, orthopedics, pain management, pediatrics, psychiatry and wound care services. Additionally, consultation clinics are held regularly by specialists in cardiology, dermatology, neurology, podiatry, pulmonology and urology.

NRMC is centrally located between Kansas City and Joplin along the I-49 corridor.

 

 

 

Advertisements

Ad: What FSCC Offers

Leave a comment

Looking for a college that gives you options? At Fort Scott Community College, students can choose from associate degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and General Studies, along with a variety of certificates that lead straight to rewarding careers. Whether you’re interested in healthcare fields like Certified Medication Aide, Nurse Aide, EMT, Home Health Aide, Manicuring, or Phlebotomy, or want to take on a technical challenge with certificates in Ag Technology (John Deere), Construction, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Environmental Water Tech, Farm & Ranch Management, Harley-Davidson Technology, Heavy Equipment Operation, HVAC, Masonry, or Welding we’ve got you covered!

But college isn’t just about the classroom. FSCC offers plenty of ways to get involved through music and performance opportunities (band, choir, theater), student clubs and organizations (like Collegiate Farm Bureau, Phi Theta Kappa, SkillsUSA, STEAM Club, FSCC Media Team, and more), and even competitive judging teams in livestock and meat.

If athletics is more your thing, FSCC is home to intercollegiate sports for both men and women. Compete in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, rodeo, track & field, or cross country, all while building friendships and representing the Greyhounds.

And the best part? We’re still growing. New programs, degrees, certifications, and athletic opportunities are on the horizon! There’s never been a better time to join FSCC!

Fort Scott Community College; where opportunity meets possibility.

Opinion

Let ‘Em Have It by Carolyn Tucker

Leave a comment

Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker

Let ‘Em Have It

Hallie was my coworker/friend and I miss her. We worked together for seven years in the 1980s, so we came to know each other quite well. As time marched on, she spent her last days in a local healthcare facility. She was still sharp as a tack and when I walked through the door of her private room, she would enthusiastically greet me and immediately pay me a compliment on my attire or jewelry. Although my visits were to brighten her day, she made my day sweeter because she had mastered the art of heartfelt conversation by speaking forth good words.

Believers should do our best to live according to this scripture: “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it” (Proverbs 3:27 NASB). Our faith is openly displayed in how we conduct our daily walk with God — which transfers into our relationships with people. If we truly revere God and practice His ways then we’ll want to treat our fellowman with kindness and goodness. It is no secret that it’s within our power to make or break someone’s day. Our attitude and words truly reach out and touch people, whether for good or bad.

We mustn’t withhold good from people when it’s within our power to do it. If an individual has done agood job, etc., then we should “let ’em have it” with positive words in a genuine compliment. If a friend is down in the dumps, we have the golden opportunity to cheer him/her up. So, “let ’em have it” with both barrels! Do you realize that people can often be cheered up with just an ice cream cone and friendly conversation? (I’m referring to bummer situations, not serious ones.)

As a rhetorical question, what does it mean to be a Christ follower? It seems that many Christians make it complicated. “You know of Jesus of Nazareth, how God anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and how He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed by the devil, for God was with Him” (Acts 10:38 NASB). We used to sing a chorus entitled, “Your Love Compels Me.” The lyrics, written by Doug Holck, are simple: “Your love compels me, Lord, to give as You would give. To speak as You would speak, to live as You would live. Your love compels me, Lord, to see as You would see. To serve as You would serve, to be what You would be.“ This is uncomplicated theology, and a great place to start if you want to be like Jesus and go about your everyday life speaking good and doing good.

You’ll never go wrong by doing what’s right in God’s sight. “What is desirable in a person is his kindness” (Proverbs 19:22 NASB). We can have the whole world by the tail, but if we don’t give a hoot
about people, we’ve missed the mark of Christianity. Believers are known by our love for one another. That’s it — nothing more and nothing less. So don’t hold back from being good to people when you have the opportunity.

The Key: Be a do-gooder and “let someone have it“ with a genuine compliment…and an ice cream cone.
(Make mine chocolate.)

Fort Scott

Feb. 17 City Commission Agenda Summary

Leave a comment
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

Leave a comment
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

Leave a comment
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.

Bourbon County Local News