Bourbon County, Fort Scott

16 homeless, plus high school ‘couch surfers’: Hope Outreach asks for time, not money

Leave a comment

FORT SCOTT — Hope Outreach of Fort Scott, the group that began as the Homeless Alliance, came away with a liaison from both the county and the city after asking each for time instead of money.

“What we would like from the county is not money at all. It is something that is much more precious. We would like time,” Joan Brown told Bourbon County commissioners Nov. 2. She asked for a non-voting liaison to meet with the group’s board about once a quarter.

“I believe the last count we had was 16 homeless people, and that is not including what we would call the couch surfers that are in our high schools,” Brown said. She said the group wants to connect people with services already here, does not want to build a shelter, and has helped get about six people housed.

Commissioner Joe Allen volunteered as the county’s liaison. The next night, Brown made her request to the Fort Scott City Commission, which voted 4-0 to name Commissioner Julie Buchta to the same role. Brown said she also plans to ask the school district for a non-voting liaison. Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee suggested the county’s application for opioid funds, and Brown said the group cannot apply until it finishes its IRS paperwork.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – November 6, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – November 6, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 58 calls for service on November 6, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Other Agency Assist — 9:30 AM, 101 S Grant St. Complaint No. 26-01755FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 10:17 AM, 2207 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-1054BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 10:17 AM, 2207 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01756FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Threat — 10:37 AM, 211 S Lowman, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01757FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 7:59 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-1055BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 11:24 PM, 6th St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01758FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 5:58 AM, 315 Scott St #203, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Alarm — 12:14 PM, 316 W 10th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 4:00 PM, 900 E 3rd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 6:21 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 11:53 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: AMBU.

Other Calls for Service

Check Vehicle — 12:48 AM, 125th. Disposition: HBO.

Check Records / Criminal History — 8:06 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

27,28,29 Checks — 8:22 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: NR.

Vin Inspections / County — 8:36 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: NR.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 8:45 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 10:06 AM, 1819 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 10:07 AM, 1222 195th. Disposition: 22.

Other Agency Assist — 10:32 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Codes — 10:53 AM, 748 S Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:33 AM, 1123 E Elm, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:33 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 77.

Theft — 11:40 AM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Warrant Service / Arrest — 11:43 AM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 2:18 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 2:57 PM, 946 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Traffic Complaint / Traffic Lights/RR Crossing — 3:47 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 6:29 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Noise Complaint — 8:16 PM, 2224 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Juvenile — 9:13 PM, 2224 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Extra Patrol — 9:29 PM, 501 Couch St. Disposition: 77.

Check Subject — 10:32 PM, 3rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Public Assist — 10:50 PM, 16 N Caldwell, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Building Check — 11:08 PM, 1625 E Oak. Disposition: HBO.

Noise Complaint — 11:52 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 1:09 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:18 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:23 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:20 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:21 AM, Margrave St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:50 AM, 12th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:24 PM, 2402 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:43 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:03 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:24 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:29 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:39 PM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:25 PM, 2402 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:45 PM, 205th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:52 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:56 PM, National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:01 PM, 5th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:05 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:10 PM, 10th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:12 PM, Locust Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:49 PM, 6th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:24 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Total Calls for Service: 58

Documents:

Government, Uniontown

Uniontown City Council Meeting – Nov. 10, 2026, 7 PM

Leave a comment

The Uniontown City Council will hold its Regular Meeting on Tuesday, November 10, 2026, at 7:00 PM at the Uniontown Community Center.

Agenda

  • 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
    • Minutes of October 13, 2026 Regular Council Meeting
    • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
  • Department Reports — Codes Enforcement (Doug Coyan), Superintendent (Bobby Rich), Clerk Report (Haley Arnold), Codes Update, City Facebook Page
  • Council & Committee Reports — Knight, Kelly, Pemberton, Stewart, Ervin, Mayor Jurgensen
  • Old Business — Dog Ordinance, Park Cameras, Waterway Project
  • New Business — possible executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), to discuss performance of non-elected personnel
  • Adjourn

October 13, 2026 – Regular Council Meeting Minutes

The Regular Council Meeting on October 13, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Kyle Knight, Bradley Stewart and Jess Ervin. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was Betty Dennis, Codes Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

Special Considerations/Projects

None recorded.

Citizens Request

None recorded.

Financial Report

Treasurer Johnson presented the September 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $203,270.62, Receipts $40,711.86, Transfers Out $1,624.00, Expenditures $32,183.25, Checking Account Closing Balance $210,175.23. Bank Statement Balance $210,265.27, including Checking Account Interest of $42.59, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $90.04, Reconciled Balance $210,175.23. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,961.17, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,783.10, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $51,537.46, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $330,456.96. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $449.97, and Utility CDs $2,134.74 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $2,584.71. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of September 2026, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0. September Transfers from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $1,624.00. Net income for the month of September $6,904.61, Year-to-Date Net Income $9,429.77. Budget vs Actual Gas Fund YTD Revenue $98,252.43 (75.9%), Expenditures $74,212.80 (56.3%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $31,433.11 (87.1%), Expenditures $21,906.27 (51.3%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $91,932.28 (73.9%), Expenditures $81,956.65 (57.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $117,130.29 (79.5%), Expenditures $125,529.00 (53.4%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $6,054.18 (83.0%), Expenditures $6,149.50 (55.0%). The payables for the period of September 9, 2026, through October 13, 2026, reflected payables in the amount of $33,521.01.

Johnson stated that a new category had been added to the financial statements for QuickBooks payroll taxes, which were automatically deducted from the bank account. She indicated that she would prefer to return to processing payroll manually at the beginning of the new year due to some conflicts with the QuickBooks payroll process.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to start doing manual payroll at the beginning of 2027.

Consent Agenda

Motion by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of September 8, 2026 Regular Meeting
  • September Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & October Accounts Payables

Department Reports

Codes Officer Doug Coyan reported that a letter had been sent regarding the property at 101 Washington, and some improvements had been made. A letter was sent to the resident at 202 4th Street to notify them of the upcoming annual citywide cleanup and to offer additional assistance with the cleanup if needed. Court proceedings were held with the resident present. However, no progress had been made on the property since the court date. The next step is to await the next court date. Coyan reported that the property at 504 Sherman had nuisance debris covering the front porch and extending into the yard. An apparently inoperable vehicle was also present on the property. Council agreed to send a letter addressing these issues.

Councilman Knight expressed concern about a potential safety hazard involving a camper trailer that had been parked along the road at 506 Sherman for an extended period of time. Coyan will contact the owner regarding moving the trailer.

Treasurer Johnson reported that Animal Enforcement Officer Betsie Binford had experienced some success trapping and rehoming feral and stray cats to help address the stray cat population in town. Johnson asked Councilwoman Kelly whether she had experienced any further issues with stray cats at her residence. Kelly reported that the situation had improved recently.

Councilwoman Kelly asked about the status of the property at 401 Fulton, noting that maintenance was needed. Codes Officer Doug Coyan will contact the property owner by phone or letter to address the concerns.

Superintendent Rich stated that the books currently stored in the shop need to be addressed. Council and Johnson discussed options for organizing and managing the books. Ervin stated that a schedule would be established at a later date to recruit volunteers to sort and catalog the books so they can be removed from the shop.

Clerk Arnold informed the Council that the annual FFA Trunk-or-Treat event would take place on October 31 and asked if any Council members were interested in handing out candy. Councilman Knight volunteered to participate with his children.

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to give a $200 allowance to spend on candy for the trunk-or-treat.

Clerk Arnold informed the Council that CRWD2 would be increasing water rates effective January 2027. Johnson reminded the Council that the City’s current water rates include an annual 3% increase.

The Council discussed the possibility of creating a Facebook page to share community information and updates. Clerk Arnold will conduct further research and present the findings at the next Council meeting.

Arnold stated a community member requested that Flock cameras be installed near the school in response to recent thefts in the community. The Council discussed the request and declined to move forward with the installation at this time.

Council Reports

Councilman Knight – expressed concerns regarding the safe operation of ATVs, dirt bikes, and golf carts within the community. The Council discussed past incidents, procedures and regulations adopted by neighboring communities regarding recreational vehicles, and current Kansas laws governing their use. Following the discussion, the Council requested that Clerk Arnold include a flyer with the next utility billing to remind residents of applicable Kansas laws and safety requirements for recreational vehicles.

Councilwoman Kelly – informed the Council of an incident at the pickleball court in which children allegedly threw a paddle at the storage units, resulting in a dent in the side of the building. The Council also discussed concerns regarding the proper handling and care of pickleball court equipment and supplies.

Councilwoman Pemberton – absent

Councilman Stewart – none

Councilman Ervin – none

Mayor Jurgensen – updated the Council on his progress and research regarding SCW cameras, including their quality and performance. He stated that he would continue researching and planning for the potential use of these cameras. Jurgensen also reported that he had spoken with Kelly Electric regarding the installation of electrical service in the park for the Christmas in the Park. The project is expected to begin in the near future.

Old Business

Dog Ordinance Review – Clerk Arnold informed the Council that they are still awaiting the attorney’s review and recommendations regarding any revisions that may be needed.

Waterway Project – Mayor Jurgensen reported that he had spoken with Ken Johnson and Hershel George regarding the Waterway Project. He stated that Ken Johnson would review the project when his current project allows him time to do so. Jurgensen requested that Clerk Arnold prepare an agreement for the property owners who will be affected by the project.

New Business

Motion by Stewart, Second by Ervin, 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 8:30PM.

Meeting resumed back at 8:30PM. No action from executive session.

Adjournment

Moved by Ervin, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:31PM.

Treasurer’s Report – September 2026

City Accounts, Monthly Transactions: Beginning Balance $210,175.23, Receipts $26,170.80, Transfers Out $1,624.00, Expenditures $34,352.09, Ending Balance $200,369.94. Bank Reconciliation: Bank Statement $200,369.94, Check Acct. Interest $43.72, Water Utility CDs $43,961.17, Sewer Utility CD $24,783.10, Gas Utility CDs $51,537.46, Total of All Funds $320,651.67.

YTD Checking Account Interest $493.69, YTD Interest on Utility CDs $2,134.74, Total $2,628.43. Transfers: Sewer Revolving Loan – Budgeted Transfer From Sewer Utility $0.00; GO Water Bond & Interest – Budgeted Transfer From Water Utility $1,624.00; Total Transfers $1,624.00.

Capital Improvement Fund: Unspecified $56,139.93, Streets $100,533.11, Total $156,673.04. Donations/Fundraisers – Christmas in Park: Beginning Balance $210.20, Received $3,000.00, Expended $2,013.65, Total $1,196.55.

Net Income: ($9,805.29). YTD Net Income: ($375.52).

General Fund (001): Total Revenue $123,738.83 (84.0% of $147,330.00 budget); Total Expenditures $136,352.03 (58.1% of $234,858.00 budget); Income Over Expenses YTD ($12,613.20); Ending Balance $83,711.59.

Special Highway (110): Total Revenue YTD $8,171.50 (112.1% of budget); Total Expenditures YTD $6,770.84 (60.5% of budget); Income Over Expenses YTD $1,400.66; Ending Balance $6,121.29.

Gas Utility Fund (300): Total Revenue YTD $96,440.19 (74.5% of budget); Total Expenditures YTD $82,379.77 (62.5% of budget); Gas Utility CDs $51,537.46; Ending Balance with CDs $7,561.05.

Water Utility Fund (310): Total Revenue YTD $105,396.25 (84.7% of budget); Total Expenditures YTD $94,087.37 (66.0% of budget); Water Utility CD $43,961.17; Ending Balance with CD $30,311.92.

Sewer Utility Fund (320): Total Revenue YTD $35,102.32 (97.2% of budget); Total Expenditures YTD $25,288.74 (59.2% of budget); Sewer Utility CD $24,783.10; Ending Balance with CD $10,149.82.

Documents:

K-State Extension

Tree Care Workshop, November 10th

Leave a comment

Sending on behalf of K-State Extension, Southwind District

Tree Care Workshop

Tuesday, November 10th
1:00pm-4:00pm

ὌD Ellis Fine Arts Center
2108 Horton St., Fort Scott, KS

Tree Care Workshop flyer

TREE CARE WORKSHOP

Want to learn how to keep your trees healthy and thriving? Join K-State Research and Extension, Southwind District, for an informative Tree Care Workshop featuring Kody Kraemer with the Kansas Forest Service!

This workshop will cover the essentials of healthy tree care, including:

Tree Biology: Understand how trees grow and thrive.

Tree Selection: Learn how to choose the right tree for the right location.

Planting: Discover how to give your trees the best start.

✂️ Pruning: Learn when, why, and how to properly prune trees.

Ὂ7 Watering: Find out how to care for both young and established trees.

Presented by: Kody Kraemer, Kansas Forest Service

For more information, call 620-244-3826.

Whether you’re planting new trees or caring for established ones, this workshop is a great opportunity to learn helpful tips from a forestry professional!

 

Schools

USD 235 Uniontown BOE Meeting, November 9, 2026

Leave a comment

USD 235 Uniontown Board of Education Regular Meeting — Monday, November 9, 2026

The Uniontown USD 235 Board of Education will hold its Regular Meeting at 7:00 p.m. on Monday, November 9, 2026, in the UJHS/UHS Commons Area in Uniontown, Kansas. The full agenda packet, including the October 12, 2026 meeting minutes and the October 2026 Treasurer’s Report, is attached: view the agenda.

Agenda Index

The next regular board meeting is scheduled for Monday, December 14, 2026, at 7:00 p.m.

October 12, 2026 Regular Meeting Minutes (summary)

The Board of Education met in regular session on Monday, October 12, 2026, at 7:00 p.m. in the UHS Commons. Board members present: Rhonda Hoener, Matt Kelly, Mike Mason, Brian Stewart, Kolby Stock, and Troy Couchman. Seth Martin was absent. Also present: Superintendent Vance Eden, Pam Kimrey, Megan Mason, Dustin Miller, and Susan Harris.

The board approved the agenda with revisions striking the Wellness Policy informational and action items, and approved minutes from the September 14, 2026 Regular Meeting, the Revenue Neutral Rate Meeting, and the 2026-2027 Budget Meeting. The Consent Agenda was approved, including bills of $284,030.89 and the September 2026 Treasurer’s Report. No patrons addressed the board.

Superintendent Eden gave reports on the upcoming KASB Convention, At-Risk Accountability Plan, Cardiac Emergency Response Plan, Bond/Capital Projects, Vehicle Purchases, Strategic Plan, and Third-party Accountant/Audit. Oral administrative reports were given by Principal Miller, Athletic Director Megan Mason, and Superintendent Eden.

The board approved the Cardiac Emergency Response Plan; the purchase of a Transit Van for $62,607.00; a Special Education Van for $31,000.00; Diehl Banwart Bolton Inc. as the 3rd Party Audit Accounting Firm; and opening a new account at Union State Bank linked with the district’s Square account for concession card purchases.

The board went into executive session at 8:27 p.m. to discuss an individual employee’s performance, with Superintendent Eden invited into session, returning to open session at 9:00 p.m.

Following executive session, the board approved Tre Howard as UHS and UJHS Boys Assistant Wrestling Coach, Alvin Metcalf as UHS and UJHS Girls Assistant Wrestling Coach, and Ryan Jarboe as UJHS Boys Assistant Basketball Coach, all for the 2026-2027 season. The board also approved hiring Clay Price as Custodian, effective October 5, 2026. The meeting adjourned at 9:05 p.m.

Schools

USD 234 Board Meeting Agenda, Nov. 9

Leave a comment

USD 234 has released the agenda for the Board of Education’s regular monthly meeting, to be held Monday, November 9, 2026, at 5:00 P.M. at the Preschool (409 S Judson).

Full agenda: 4.0_11-09-26_Board_Agenda_PUBLIC.pdf

  1. Call Meeting to Order — David Stewart, President
  2. Preschool Tour – 409 S Judson
  3. Flag Salute
  4. Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
  5. Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)
    • Board Minutes, 10/12/26
    • Financials – Cash Flow Report
    • Check Register
    • Payroll – October 20, 2026 – $1,858,409.56
    • Activity Funds Accounts
    • USD 234 Gifts
  6. Presentation
  7. Old Business
    • Preschool Project Update (Information/discussion)
    • Facilities Naming Policy (Discussion Item)
  8. Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)
  9. New Business
    • Termination of IT Services Agreement with FSCC
    • Payment and Performance Bond Requirements for District Construction Projects (Action)
    • Mentorship Agreement (Action Item)
    • Health Insurance Renewal (Discussion Item)
    • Softball Facility Improvements (Discussion Item)
    • Board Meeting Streaming (Discussion Item)
    • Board Member Expectations (Discussion Item)
  10. Public Forum
  11. Other Business – Personnel Matters
    • Enter/Exit Executive Session – Legal Matters (Action Item)
    • Enter/Exit Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)
    • Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)
    • Enter/Exit Executive Session – Evaluations (Action Item)
  12. Adjourn Meeting — David Stewart, President
Business, Fort Scott

AmericanMaid expects about 100 jobs at the former Timken plant

Leave a comment

FORT SCOTT — AmericanMaid, a California maker of plastic housewares, is moving into the former Timken building at 4505 Campbell Drive and expects to create about 100 jobs in its first year, City Manager Brad Matkin announced Tuesday, Nov. 3.

Matkin said in a post on the city’s Facebook page that more job growth is expected in the second and third years. “This announcement is about much more than filling an empty building,” he wrote. “It is about jobs, families, economic growth and the future of Fort Scott!”

Mary Wyatt, the city’s director of business development, told the Bourbon County Monitor the company asked for no city incentives or property tax abatement. She said the company worked directly with the Kansas Department of Commerce on state tax credits.

The Monitor also reported that BNSF has approved a rail spur for the industrial park and that building it would be up to the new owner. Wyatt said the city would not be involved financially.

Timken closed its Fort Scott belt plant in 2025. Matkin told commissioners in July that a rail spur “sounds very possible.”

Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, Schools, Youth

FSHS Students to Showcase 17 Businesses at YEC Tradeshow

Leave a comment

Come shop and support our student entrepreneurs!

Join the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, Fort Scott High School, and NetWork Kansas for the Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge (YEC) Tradeshow.

Tuesday, November 10
6 to 8 p.m.
Fort Scott High School Auxiliary Gym

Fort Scott High School YEC Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge Tradeshow and Competition flyer

WHAT TO EXPECT

• Shop 17 student businesses featuring baked goods, candles, Christmas items, home décor, and more.
• Meet the students and learn about their business ideas.
• Vote for the Community Choice Award.
• Stay for awards at the conclusion of the tradeshow.

Under the guidance of Mrs. Dani Cummings, the new FSHS business teacher, every participating business has developed a physical product to sell. Bring a little spending money and get a start on your holiday shopping!

Just browsing is welcome, too! Asking questions and encouraging the students is a great way to support their hard work.

Click here for the Facebook event!

Invite a friend and help us give these young entrepreneurs a great turnout!

The overall local winner will advance to the state championship in Manhattan, with competition on April 21, 2027. The statewide YEC Series is coordinated by NetWork Kansas in partnership with K-State Research and Extension and the K-State Center for the Advancement of Entrepreneurship.

Questions? Contact the Chamber at 620-223-3566 or information@fortscott.com.

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

Opinion

They Earned the Right: A Veteran’s Day Reflection by Patty LaRoche

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

Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends (John 15:13).

(Former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee referenced the following story in his Veterans’ presentation speech. It was sent to me by a veteran friend.)

In September of 2005, on the first day of school, Martha Cothren, a history teacher at Robinson High School in Little Rock, with the permission of the school superintendent, the principal and the building supervisor, removed all the desks in her classroom. When the first period kids entered the room, they asked the obvious: “Ms. Cothren, where are our desks?” She replied, “You can’t have a desk until you tell me how you earn the right to sit at a desk.” When they guessed “grades” or “behavior,” she told them that wasn’t it, questions and answers repeated for the following class periods. Kids called their parents to tell them what was happening, and by early afternoon television news crews had started gathering at the school to report about this crazy teacher who had taken all the desks out of her room.

The final period of the day came, and as the puzzled students found seats on the floor of the desk-less classroom, Martha Cothren explained what the students had done to “earn the right” to sit in their desks. Walking over to the classroom door, she opened it, and twenty-seven U.S. military members, all in uniform, walked into that classroom, each one carrying a school desk. The Vets began placing the school desks in rows, and then they would walk over and stand alongside the wall. By the time the last soldier had set the final desk in place those kids started to understand, perhaps for the first time in their lives, just how the right to sit at those desks had been earned.

Martha said, “You didn’t earn the right to sit at these desks. These heroes did it for you. They placed the desks here for you. They went halfway around the world, giving up their education and interrupting their careers and families so you could have the freedom you have. Now, it’s up to you to sit in them. It is your responsibility to learn, to be good students, to be good citizens. They paid the price so that you could have the freedom to get an education. Don’t ever forget it.”

Martha Cothren, the daughter of a WWII POW, was awarded the Veterans of Foreign Wars Teacher of the Year for the State of Arkansas in 2006.

Towards the end of my high school teaching career, one first-period student failed to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance. He didn’t create a fuss, burn a flag or demand attention. He simply sat while the rest of the class stood. One day, following the Pledge, a classmate of his asked why I didn’t do anything about it. (Boy, have times changed!) I explained that that young man had the right to sit because of what our flag represented.

On November 11, we celebrate Veteran’s Day. We are blessed to live in a time when a veteran is respected. Several American organizations (including the one our son, Adam, heads) understand the physical and mental toll it takes on our men and women who spend time in war zones overseas. They are invited to Adam’s ranch to meet others who have endured the same so that stories can be shared and healing (hopefully) can begin. Many return to mentor other first-time attendees. At those meetings, Jesus, the ultimate healer, is shared, and it is not unusual for baptisms to follow. He, more than anyone, knows what it is like to lay down his life for his friends, and in Jesus’ case, his enemies too.

Patty A. LaRoche

Uncategorized

SEK Match Week 2026 Offers $210,000 in Matching Funds

Leave a comment

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) and its affiliates in Columbus, Fort Scott, and Girard are hosting their second annual Match Week event November 9-13, 2026.

Match Week is a fundraising campaign that provides matching funds for community contributions to participating charitable funds, amplifying donors’ generosity. This year, $210,000 in matching funds is available across the four foundations.

“Match Week is a wonderful opportunity for people across Southeast Kansas to come together and support the organizations they care about,” said CFSEK Executive Director Devin Gorman. “With 106 charitable funds participating across CFSEK and our affiliates, there is something everyone can support. Every gift makes a difference, and matching funds make that generosity go even further.”

Donations are accepted online, in-person, or via mail during Match Week. Visit SEKMatchWeek.org to see a full list of funds and how to donate.

Area News

Coalition Meeting Minutes: Christmas on the Bricks, Agency Updates

Leave a comment

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition — General Membership Meeting Minutes

November 4, 2026

Welcome: Seventeen members from seventeen agencies attended the meeting in the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.

Coalition Board News: Jalaine Davis is filling the open board seat. There will likely be another open seat soon on the Coalition Board. Reach out to Nick if you are interested.

Member Introductions and Announcements

Jennifer Gum-Fowler – Fort Scott Public Library: The library will have a variety of activities during Christmas on the Bricks. Staff have made progress on ongoing projects and hope to finish by year’s end.

Craig Campbell – Good Neighbor Action Team: GNAT builds wheelchair ramps with fast turnaround and no charge for labor, and sometimes donated materials. They also work with the codes department on yards. The E3 Foundation is seeking help purchasing a car for a client who needs transportation to work. Craig is also assisting a client possibly being taken advantage of by a solar company; contact Craig if you know of resources for either situation.

Becky Johnson – SEK MultiCounty Health Department: Welcome to WIC bags are available for new WIC clients (see attached flyer). The health department now offers DOT physicals. A new grant for a youth heart screening program will fund an EKG machine, providing free heart screenings for youth ages 8–23. Flu shots are also available.

Amanda Portwood – Ward/Kraft Corporate Recruiter: Ward/Kraft is hiring and expanding, with openings in production and sales accounts. They work with second-chance employees who are willing to work and remain clean/sober. Hiring packets are available from Amanda.

Kelly Stammer – Department for Children and Families: LIEAP begins November 30, with flyers coming soon and nine LIEAP events scheduled around southeast Kansas. Contact: kelly.stammer@ks.gov.

Janie Aita – Angels Care Home Health: Angels Care is focusing this month on patients with dementia/Alzheimer’s and can offer support and resources to struggling caregivers.

Rene Hibdon – Patient Resource Specialist, CHCSEK: Medicare and Marketplace enrollment is rolling. Rene works with moms and babies, and flu shots are available at CHC.

Jalaine Davis – CORE: Praise Fest was a success and CORE is already planning future events. CORE members will volunteer at Christmas on the Bricks, offering gift wrapping with donations benefiting the CORE program. The current CORE class is full with 20 participants.

Sandy Haggaard – K-State Extension: Sandy is offering a sheet pan meals program, recently working with CORE. A homesteading series is underway in Chanute this fall, and Sandy will lead a noodle-making program in Fort Scott on Saturday, November 14.

Theresa Amershek – Safehouse (CEVC): Safehouse held multiple activities last month for Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Star Culp – Parents As Teachers: PAT is a free early learning program for parents expecting or with young children, with one opening in the USD 234 school district area.

Janelle – Early Childhood Block Grant: No program updates. Janelle brought an example shoebox for the Operation Christmas Child Shoebox program; reach out with questions.

Michelle Stevenson – Fort Scott Early Childhood Program: Michelle works with families with children prenatal through age 6, encouraging child development, free of charge.

Shelby Moore – Families Together FAST Program: Shelby works with families of special needs children, assisting with the IEP process.

Shelly Tridle – Crawford County Health Department: Shelly leads a pregnancy maintenance program for expecting mothers.

Program: Christmas on the Bricks

Diane Striler, Christmas on the Bricks Chair, announced the event will run December 3–6 in downtown Fort Scott, marking its fourth year. It kicks off with the Christmas parade on December 3, followed by the lighting of the mayor’s Christmas tree. The goal is to provide reasonably priced entertainment for families and attract visitors to town.

Activities throughout the weekend include horse carriage rides, a synthetic skating rink, a hay climb, a fire pit with Adirondack chairs, a live nativity, a kids’ train ride, wreath making and painting classes, an outdoor movie sponsored by the library at the Lowell Milken Center, gift wrapping sponsored by CORE, multiple photo opportunities, a bake-off competition, Singo at Hometown Pub, a Sunday brunch at Crooner’s, live reindeer, a brick hunt, 3D printed ornaments and story time at the library, and a teen scavenger hunt sponsored by SparkWheel. Christmas characters will be walking around downtown throughout the weekend.

Visit fortscott.com/christmas-on-the-bricks to sign up or for more information.

The chamber is hoping to keep the skating rink open until February this year and is looking for groups willing to work the rink in exchange for a portion of proceeds on certain weekends.

Open Forum

Nothing further came before the coalition.

Adjournment

The next General Membership meeting will be December 2, 2026.

Community Flyers

Let’s Make Noodles! Join Southwind Extension Master Food Volunteers and Nutrition, Food Safety & Health Agent Sandy Haggard on Saturday, Nov. 14, 10 a.m.–noon, at First Southern Baptist Church, 1818 S. Main (US Hwy 69) in Fort Scott. $5 program fee payable that day via cash/check. Register by calling 620-365-2242 or emailing sjhaggard@ksu.edu. Limited to 20 participants.

Rooted & Ready: Practical Skills for Home, Land & Homestead — a hands-on learning series in Chanute led by Southwind District Extension agents and K-State specialists. Remaining sessions: November 10, “The Laying Line: Poultry for Reliable Food Supply”; Thursday, November 19, “Deep Roots: Soil & Forage Strategies for Resilient Farms.” Programs begin at 6 p.m. with a meal provided by Cleaver Farm and Home, at Central Park Pavilion, 2nd St. and Forest Ave. in Chanute. Call 620-223-3720 for information or to reserve a seat.

Welcome to WIC — the SEK Multi-County Health Department encourages pregnant women, new mothers, infants, and children up to age 5 to make an appointment to see if they qualify for WIC. New clients receive a Welcome to WIC bag with helpful items. Bourbon County Health Department, 524 S. Lowman St., Fort Scott, KS 66701, (620) 223-4464.

Now Offering DOT Physicals at SEK Multi-County Health Department locations, including Bourbon County Health Department, for CDL applicants and commercial motor vehicle drivers. Call your local health department to schedule: Bourbon County (620) 223-4464, Allen County (620) 365-2191, Anderson County (785) 448-6559, Woodson County (620) 625-2484.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – November 5, 2026

Leave a comment

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – November 5, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 75 calls for service on November 5, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Traffic Stop — 1:50 AM, Pine St. Complaint No. 26-1051BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Criminal Damage — 8:41 AM, 784 195th, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-1052BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Accident / Non-Injury — 11:00 AM, 2108 S Horton St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01752FS. Disposition: RPTA.

Traffic Stop — 2:09 PM, 1135 E Wall St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01753FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fraud — 4:21 PM, 1883 Maple. Complaint No. 26-1053BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Domestic / Physical — 11:29 PM, 19 N Margrave St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01754FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 2:57 AM, 915 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 6:04 AM, 1626 S Judson. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 7:31 AM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 4:20 PM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 6:05 PM, 2401 S Horton, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Grass — 9:58 PM, 1010 Park Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Other Calls for Service

27,28,29 Checks — 5:51 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Check Vehicle — 7:23 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 7:30 AM, 2197 Ironwood Dr, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

911 / Accidental — 7:36 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Animal Control — 7:47 AM, 700-800 Blk, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 8:09 AM, 2033 165th. Disposition: HBD.

911 / Accidental — 8:11 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: 22.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 8:35 AM, Indian Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 9:11 AM, 351 N Bourbon. Disposition: HBD.

911 / Hang Up — 9:11 AM, 351 Bourbon, Mapleton. Disposition: 22.

Animal Control — 10:55 AM, 624 S Clark. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:12 AM, 7th St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 12:13 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 12:49 PM, 101 S State St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 2:00 PM, Range. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 3:44 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

No Problem — 4:17 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Juvenile — 6:53 PM, 101 S Grant St. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 7:12 PM, 732 195th. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 8:22 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 1:16 AM, 2224 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:35 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:46 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:00 AM, Crawford. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:00 AM, 215th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:18 AM, 215th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:13 PM, 12th St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:25 PM, 12th St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:38 PM, 240th. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:46 PM, Emmert, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:54 PM, 10th St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:10 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:00 PM, 1708 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:13 PM, 1511 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:17 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:23 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:27 PM, Shep’s Curve. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:38 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:42 PM, N National Ave. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:44 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:51 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:02 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:09 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:14 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:21 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:26 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:30 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:39 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:03 PM, 6th St. Disposition: NTA.

Traffic Stop — 8:06 PM, 2224 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:13 PM, Indian Rd. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:30 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:34 PM, Lincoln St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:45 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:56 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:00 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:04 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:05 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:59 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: NTA.

Traffic Stop — 10:38 PM, 8th St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:45 PM, 2101 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:25 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Total Calls for Service: 75

Documents:

Bourbon County Local News