Bourbon County, Health Care

Boil Advisory for Fort Scott and Uniontown As Of April 18

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Boil Water Advisory Issued for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon Co RWD 2C and City of Uniontown, Bourbon County (Taken from the City of Fort Scott’s Facebook page)
TOPEKA –The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Fort Scott, Bourbon Co RWD 2C, and City of Uniontown public water supply systems located in Bourbon County. This advisory does not affect those customers of city of Fulton nor those of city of Prescott.
Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:
Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.
Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic icemaker.
If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.
Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.
Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.
The advisory took effect on April 18, 2026 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE officials issued the advisory because of a waterline break in the city of Fort Scott’s distribution system, resulting in a loss of pressure in the distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination. The City of Fort Scott water system provides water to Bourbon Co RWD 2C, who provides water to city of Uniontown.
Regardless of whether the public water supplier or Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.
For consumer questions, please contact the City of Fort Scott water system at 620-223-5160, or Bourbon Co RWD 2C water system at 620-223-1110, or the city of Uniontown water system at 620-756-4742, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:
Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety & lodging program at [email protected] or call 785-564-6767.
Consumer Information Regarding a Disruption in Water Service | KDHE, KS
kdhe.ks.gov
Consumer Information Regarding a Disruption in Water Service | KDHE, KS
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Far-out Prayer for a Wife by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker
Far-out Prayer for a Wife

As a young girl, I remember the congregation of my childhood church gathering around the altar to pray for the healing of a newborn baby girl. She was born without soft spots (fontanelles) on her head. As the adults fervently poured out their hearts before God, baby Cynthia was precious and content. Her parents,
Leo and Geneva, returned her to the doctor’s office a few days later and she was deemed completely healed and whole. Because I was there for this special prayer and experienced the entire situation, I have never doubted that God answered our prayers. And I have a lifetime of answers to prayer.

I think God actually enjoys answering bizarre prayers just to prove He’s a listening all-powerful God. In the Old Testament, Abraham’s senior servant, Eliezer, was told to go back to Abraham’s home country and get a wife for his son Isaac. Abraham told Eliezer, “God will send His angel ahead of you to get a wife for my son.” So Eliezer took ten camels loaded with gifts and headed to the city of Nahor. Just outside the city, he made the camels kneel at a well and he prayed a far-out prayer: “O God, God of my master Abraham, make things go smoothly this day… Let the girl to whom I say, ‘Lower your jug and give me a drink say,’‘Drink and let me also water your camels’ – let her be the woman You have picked out for your servant Isaac. Then I’ll know that You’re working graciously behind the scenes” (Genesis 24 MSG).

Eliezer wanted to make sure he brought home the right wife for Isaac, so he prayed very specifically. And we know Eliezer’s prayer was answered exactly as he prayed. When Rebekah offered to water all the camels (at least 11), that was the clincher. A normal woman wouldn’t offer to water any of the camels, a considerate woman might offer to water Eliezer’s camel, but only the right woman would offer to water all the camels! It’s been roughly estimated that one camel can drink 25 gallons of water after a long journey. Rebekah sure wasn’t lazy or puny – she drew approximately 275 gallons of water for all the camels. If I had been Rebekah I guess I’d have remained unmarried.

Some Christ followers might think, “Well, I’m not going to ask for anything from God, that way I won’t be disappointed.” That’s a strange way to think about your heavenly Father. I’ve heard it said this way: “I’d rather ask God for a lot and receive half of it than not ask for anything and get all of it.”

God’s Word tells believers to ask for what they need. “So let us come boldly to the throne of our gracious God. There we will receive His mercy, and we will find grace to help us when we need it most” (Hebrews 4:16 NLT). “I always pray, I don’t faint, quit or give up” (Luke 18:1). “Because of my faith in Him, I dare to have the boldness (courage and confidence) of free access (an unreserved approach to God with freedom and without fear)” (Ephesians 3:12 AMP). The definition of “Amen” is the end of a prayer and the beginning of an answer.

“You do not have what you want because you do not ask God for it” (James 4:2 GNT). I double-dog dare you to ask God for what you need and then step back and watch Him work.

The Key: Never underestimate the power of a far-out prayer to an awesome God.

Fort Scott, Government

What is a Certified Local Government (CLG)?

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Sending on behalf of Platinum Chamber Champion Member
City-of-Fort-Scott-Logo---new-2024.png

The City was recently designated as a

Certified Local Government (CLG) through a partnership with the National Park Service and the State Historic Preservation Office. This designation reflects Fort Scott’s commitment to preserving its historic character while supporting thoughtful growth and development.

What is a Certified Local Government (CLG)?

A Certified Local Government is a city that has met state and federal standards for historic preservation and participates in a larger partnership between local, state, and federal programs.

This designation allows the City to:

• Participate in preservation planning at the local level

• Apply for historic preservation grants

• Provide local review of projects affecting historic properties

 

Programs like this are designed to help communities protect historic resources while also encouraging economic development and revitalization.

What does this mean for downtown property owners?

For properties located within designated historic districts or individually listed properties, certain exterior changes may require a Certificate of Appropriateness (COA) before work begins.

This may include:

• Window and door replacements

• Exterior materials or siding changes

• Demolition or new construction

• Significant exterior alterations

The purpose of this process is to help maintain the historic character of downtown Fort Scott while still allowing property owners to invest in and improve their buildings.

Quick Checklist: Do You Need a COA?

Property owners are encouraged to contact the City before starting work if they answer YES to any of the following:

☐ Is the property located in the downtown historic district or individually listed?

☐ Are windows, doors, or exterior materials being changed?

☐ Is the exterior appearance being altered?

☐ Is an addition or new construction planned?

☐ Is demolition (partial or full) being considered?

If there is any uncertainty, City staff are available to help determine next steps.

Click HERE to follow

The City of Fort Scott

on Facebook!

Click HERE to visit

The City of Fort Scott

webpage!

Click HERE for a printable copy of this information

A special Thank You to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Government

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Weekly Press Overview, April 13-17, 2026

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Senator Marshall Calls for Full Funding of Drug Trafficking Prevention Program

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), released a statement asking the Senate Appropriations Committee to sufficiently fund the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program following the release of President Trump’s FY27 Budget, which calls for a 35% reduction in HIDTA funding, as well as the transfer of the program from the Office of National Drug Control Policy to the Department of Justice.

 

Should this transfer and funding reduction occur, the Midwest HIDTA branch would lose significant resources and its ability to efficiently work with state and local law enforcement offices across Kansas to foster collaboration, share resources, and leverage expertise to keep communities safe. Both consequences would undermine the program’s mission to effectively reduce the impact of drug trafficking in HIDTA classified counties in Kansas: Barton, Cherokee, Crawford, Finney, Franklin, Johnson, Labette, Leavenworth, Miami, Saline, Sedgwick, Seward, Shawnee, and Wyandotte.

 

“With fourteen Kansas counties classified as a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area, I am determined to make sure our local, state, and federal law enforcement have all the resources they need to protect Kansas families. The HIDTA program is a proven tool that puts resources directly in the hands of local law enforcement to combat drug trafficking in our communities,” said Senator Marshall. “I look forward to working with my colleagues on the Appropriations Committee to ensure this program has the funding it needs to continue that mission.”

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Americans Are Keeping More of Their Earnings

 

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), questioned Frank Bisignano, CEO of the Internal Revenue Service, at the Senate Finance Committee. The hearing focused on IRS operations and the 2026 tax filing season.

 

Senator Marshall noted that Mr. Bisignano is a graduate of Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas, and his questions were centered around tax savings Americans are seeing this year, the new no tax on overtime legislation, and the improved efficiency of the IRS.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall Joins Letter Backing American Ag Under USMCA

Washington – This week, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined a bipartisan letter led by Senators Steve Daines (R-Montana) and Amy Klobuchar (D-Minnesota) to U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) Jamieson Greer, emphasizing their support of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) ahead of the Agreement’s six-year joint review and urging expanded market access and certainty for American producers.

In the letter, the Senators wrote:

“The United States is currently the world’s largest agricultural exporter, with total agricultural exports valued at $176 billion in 2024. Since the Agreement’s entry into force, U.S. agricultural exports have increased substantially, particularly to Canada and Mexico. 

…American family farmers and ranchers depend on the certainty afforded by a stable Agreement. The integrated supply chains facilitated by streamlined compliance requirements, effective rules governing food safety measures, and intellectual property protections have allowed the U.S. to build a fortified trading network here in the Western Hemisphere.

…As preparations begin for the upcoming joint review process, we encourage continued engagement with Congress, farmers, and ranchers to ensure the agreement is improved to support U.S. agriculture and maintain strong market access for American producers.”

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall Introduces President Trump’s Nominees for U.S. District Courts of Kansas

 

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), introduced Kansas Bureau of Investigation Director Tony Mattivi, Great Bend attorney Jeffrey M. Kuhlman, and Kansas Solicitor General Anthony J. Powell during their nomination hearing before the Senate Judiciary Committee. The three nominees, selected by President Trump, are being considered to serve as United States District Judges for the District of Kansas.

 

Senator Marshall highlighted the nominees’ strong Kansas roots, integrity, and commitment to public service, while emphasizing the thorough effort behind their selection alongside Senator Moran. He underscored the importance of the federal judiciary and expressed confidence that the nominees will serve Kansans with fairness and distinction.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Investing in All of America Act Passes Senate

 

Washington – This week, the U.S. Senate passed the Investing in All of America Act, bipartisan legislation led by Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas) and co-sponsored by Senator John Hickenlooper (D-Colorado) that would direct more private investment into rural communities, low-income areas, American manufacturing, and critical technology sectors. The bill now heads to President Trump’s desk to be signed into law.

 

This bill strengthens the Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) program, which allows private investment firms to combine their own money with SBA-backed funds to invest exclusively in American small businesses. In 2024, SBIC created 9,280 jobs and supported 98 small businesses in Kansas, and in the last two decades it has invested $505.4M in Kansas companies.

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: PBMs Are Squeezing Community Pharmacies Out of Business

 

Washington – On Thursday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), questioned witnesses Dr. Brian Miller, Associate Professor of Medicine at John Hopkins University, and Dr. Ryan Long, Director of Congressional Relations and Senior Research Fellow at the USC Schaeffer Institute at the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing focused on making medicines more affordable through competition.

 

Senator Marshall’s questioning focused on concerns over the growing financial strain on community pharmacists driven by pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) and called for meaningful PBM reform to bring down prescription drug costs for patients.

 

 

Click here to learn more.

 

Senator Marshall: Republican Tax Wins Mean More Money for Families This Tax Day

Washington – On Wednesday, U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Senate Republicans, including Finance Chairman Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) in a press conference on Tax Day 2026.

The Senators emphasized that this year’s Tax Day looks different for millions of Americans, as families are now able to keep more of their hard-earned income due to the Republican-passed Working Families Tax Cuts. Senator Marshall specifically highlighted provisions he fought for, including no tax on overtime and the 45Z clean fuel production credit.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: President Trump Continues to Fight for Our Farmers

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Suzanne Alexander on RFD TV’s Market Day Report to discuss the increased benefits farmers are receiving this tax season, how President Trump has fought for farmers, how international events have affected input prices, and solutions for relief from high production costs.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: President Trump is Keeping Americans Safe

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Sharla McBride and Marc Lotter on Newsmax’s Wake Up America to discuss the blockade of Iran and an end to the conflict, President Trump’s work to make the cost of living affordable for Americans, and the Republican plan to fund ICE and DHS.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

Senator Marshall: More Americans are Getting a Tax Refund This Year

 

Washington – U.S. Senator Roger Marshall, M.D. (R-Kansas), joined Dave Anthony on The FOX News Rundown to discuss tax refunds being larger this year, the Democrats’ continued shutdown of DHS, how the Iran war is affecting the economy, and more.

 

 

Click HERE for the press release or on the image above for Senator Marshall’s full interview.

 

###

Obituary

Obituary of Jackie Keating, Sr.

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Shawn Gerard Keating Sr. “Jackie”, age 62, a resident of Fort Scott KS passed away Friday April 17, 2026 at home surrounded by his family. He was born May 25, 1963 in Fort Scott KS to Edward and Patricia (Warzel) Keating.

Shawn graduated from Fort Scott High School class of 1981 where he was a member of the Tiger Football Team. He then attended Newman University and graduated with the class of 1986 with bachelor’s degrees in business management and marketing. After graduation, he returned to Fort Scott to work in the family business, K&K Auto Parts. He married Sandi Hobbs June 12, 1998 in Fort Scott, KS at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. She survives of the home. Shawn’s greatest blessings in life were his children, whom he loved with all his heart. He was an avid Chiefs fan and enjoyed watching the games and grilling out. Shawn also helped serve lunch to the kids at St. Mary’s School for over 20 years. He was the kind of man people will remember for being friendly and sincere. He carried himself with a steady kindness. That left a lasting impression on every one he met.

Also surviving are sons Vincent (Courtney), Jesse, Andrew, Shawn II, and Connor. Daughters Grace (Eli) and Faith (Gage). Granddaughters Maeve and Margo. Siblings Eddie, John (Charlene), Mary Lowry (John), Beth Anne Graham (Daryl), and Patty Kramer (Mike) and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his parents, Shawn was preceded in death by sister-in-law Janet (New) Keating, mother and father-in-law Nancy and Joe Decker.

Father Yancey Burgess will celebrate Mass of Christian Burial Wednesday, April 22, 2026 at 10:30 a.m. Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church. Burial will follow in St. Mary’s Catholic Cemetery. The Rosary will be prayed at 7:00 p.m. with family receiving friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the St. Mary’s Catholic School and may be sent to Cheney Witt Chapel, P.O. Box 347, Fort Scott, KS. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at Cheneywitt.com

 

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott April 17th Edition!

🚎 Historic Trolley Tours

Ride Dolly the Trolley and explore Fort Scott’s history

with a narrated tour.

Fridays & Saturdays – Now Boarding!

Spring Town-wide Garage Sale

Click below on the image to RSVP
2026-Spring-Town-wide-Garage-Sale-1200x400-Website-Size.png

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

Kansas Small Business

Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd & 4th Thursday of the month 9am-3pm

Want more details or updates Community, Chamber, and Member events?

You can find full dates, times, locations, and links on our community calendar on the Chamber’s website at:

👉 fortscott.com/events/calendar/

RECURRING EVENTS

Bartelsmeyer Jewelry Estate Sale

25% off April 21st to May 2nd

50% off May 5th to May 16th

Mother’s Day Giveaway!

📍22 N. Main St.

UPCOMING EVENTS

📅 SATURDAY – April 18, 2026

Civil War Encampment Weekend

(Saturday & Sunday)

📍Fort Scott National Historic Site,

1 Old Fort Blvd.

SCHEDULE:

SATURDAY, APRIL 18

 9 a.m. Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)

 9:30 a.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 10 a.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)

 10:30 a.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)

 11 a.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)

 11:30 a.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 11:30-1:30 p.m. Cooking Demonstration (North of Dragoon Barracks)

 Noon Second Hand Strings Musical Performance (Hospital Porch)

 1 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)

 2 p.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 3 p.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)

 4 p.m. Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)

 4:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

SUNDAY, APRIL 19

 9 a.m. Raising the Colors (Garrison Flagpole)

 9:30 am Historic Church Service (Dragoon Barracks)

 10 a.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)

 10:30 a.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 11 a.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)

 11:30 a.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 1 p.m. Ranger Guided Tour of the Fort (meet at Visitor Center)

 1:30 p.m. Infantry Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 2 p.m. Civil War Medicine (next to Post Hospital)

 2:30 p.m. Cavalry Program (next to Stables)

 3:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

 4 p.m. Flag Retreat (Garrison Flagpole)

 4:30 p.m. Artillery Weapons Demonstration (Black Powder Area)

Mental Health First Aid & Training

📍 First United Methodist Church,

320 S. National Ave.

in the Fellowship Hall

FSHS PROM
⏰6:30pm
📍 The River Room

📅 SUNDAY – April 19, 2026

Civil War Encampment Weekend

(Saturday & Sunday)

📍Fort Scott National Historic Site,

1 Old Fort Blvd.

Pat Harry Students’ Piano Recital

⏰2:30pm

📍 First United Methodist Church,

320 S. National Ave.

📅 WEDNESDAY – April 22, 2026

Senior Care Coalition at Credi Senior Living

⏰7:30-8:30am

📍Credo Senior Living & Memory Care

820 S. Horton St.

Downtown Cleanup hosted by the Chamber

⏰Check-in: 3:30-4pm

⏰Clean-up Event 4-7pm

📍Downtown Fort Scott

Free pulled pork meal for the first 150 confirmed volunteers following the event

Click HERE to register!

Par-Tee Girls Pre-season Golf Lesson

⏰5:30-6:30pm

📍Woodland Hills Golf Course

$20/lesson

FSHS FFA Banquet

⏰6-9pm

📍The River Room Event Center

📅 THURSDAY – April 23, 2026

Chamber Coffee hosted by Fort Scott Public Library

⏰8am

📍FS Public Library

Murder Mystery Dinner by Cohn’s Cafe 110 S. Main St.

⏰5:30pm

📍Cohn’s Cafe, 110 S. Main St.

Paint & Sip: Coneflower Edition

⏰6-8pm

📍The Artificers, 8 N. National Ave.

FSHS Spring Music Program

⏰6:30-8pm

📍Ellis Fine Arts Center

📅 FRIDAY – April 24, 2026

Winfield Scott Color Run

⏰5:30pm

📍Riverfront Park

Rug Paint Workshop

⏰6pm

📍Papa Don’s Pizza, 10 N. Main St.

📅 SATURDAY – April 25, 2026

Nicole Brown’s Breast Cancer Benefit Ride

⏰9:30am Registration

11am Kickstands up

📍5 Corners Gas Station

Independent Bookstore Day

⏰10am-5pm

📍Hedgehog Books

Princess Tea Party at BRCC

⏰10am

📍Buck Run Community Center

Paint & Pizza – April Showers Bring May Flowers

⏰11am-2pm

📍Papa Don’s Pizza

Documentary Film Premiere “Fort Scott Stories” (Red Carpet Event)

⏰7-9pm

Doors open at 6:30pm

Film Starts at 7pm

📍Ellis Fine Arts Center, 2108 S. Horton St.

Free Event!

MUST RSVP – RSVP by clicking HERE!

✅ See more events & details:

https://fortscott.com/events

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
In This Issue
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.

Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?

Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!

Seeking a job/career?

We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.

Many opportunities available!

Housing needs?

Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.

Click here for our rental listing.

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema

A SPECIAL THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701
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K-State Extension

Test Before You Invest: Making Every Fertilizer Dollar Count by Lonnie Mangarelli

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Lonnie Mengarelli. Submitted photo.

Test Before You Invest: Making Every Fertilizer Dollar Count

Lonnie Mengarelli, Ag and Natural Resources Agent-Southwind District

With fertilizer prices continuing to put pressure on farm budgets, making informed nutrient decisions is more important than ever. When inputs like urea (46-0-0) are pushing $900 per ton, DAP (18-46-0) is near $900 per ton, and potash (0-0-60) is around $450 per ton, every application represents a significant investment. In this environment, one of the most practical tools available to both crop and forage producers is soil testing—a relatively low-cost practice that can deliver substantial returns in efficiency, productivity, and long-term sustainability.

Crop production depends heavily on the availability of nutrients for plant uptake. Nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, and other essential nutrients must be present in the right balance to support healthy plant growth and maximize yields. However, nutrient availability varies widely depending on soil type, past management, and environmental conditions. Without soil testing, fertilizer decisions become guesswork—often resulting in unnecessary expense or unrealized yield potential.

Management of all nutrient sources, including commercial fertilizer, compost, and manure, within the constraints of farm production systems and operational goals, is a prerequisite for both profitable crop production and environmental sustainability. Soil testing provides the foundation for managing these inputs effectively, allowing producers to properly credit nutrients already present and apply only what is truly needed.

Inappropriate management of these nutrient sources can lead to reduced economic returns and environmental degradation of both surface and groundwater. Matching nutrient applications to actual soil needs helps protect water quality and reduces the risk of nutrient losses, all while maintaining strong levels of production. Overapplication wastes dollars—especially costly at today’s fertilizer prices—and increases the risk of nutrient runoff or leaching. Underapplication, on the other hand, can limit crop performance and reduce profitability. It is imperative that nutrient management planning activities are recognized and carried out, and soil testing is the critical first step in that process.

The value of soil testing extends well beyond row crop production and is equally important in forage and rangeland systems. Healthy soil is the foundation of every successful operation—whether you’re raising corn and soybeans or managing grass pastures and hay meadows.

Soil testing remains one of the simplest, most cost-effective tools available to improve productivity across both row crop acres and grazing land. Removing uncertainty from fertility decisions and ensuring nutrients are applied where they are needed most. This precision improves yields, boosts input efficiency, and strengthens return on investment. In pasture and rangeland systems, proper fertility supports healthy forage growth, stand persistence, and grazing potential. Whether managing row crops or grasses like brome or fescue and native range, understanding soil nutrient levels helps keep production systems efficient, resilient, and productive—especially when fertilizer costs are high.

To support producers in making data-driven decisions, the Southwind Extension District is offering a Soil Testing Initiative. A total of 200 soil tests are available with a $15 discount per test, with a limit of two tests per producer. This cost-share opportunity is made possible through the Bill House Grant from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas. Producers must request the discount at the time of submission to receive the cost-share, so be sure to ask when turning in samples.

Bottom line: soil testing is not an added expense—it’s an investment. Especially with today’s fertilizer prices, it is one of the smartest decisions a producer can make. It equips you with the information needed to optimize inputs, improve profitability, and sustain your land for the long term. Whether you’re managing row crops or rangeland, it all starts from the ground up.

Lonnie Mengarelli is a Kansas State University Extension Agriculture agent assigned to the Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-223-3720

Opinion

Eternity: Not a Game by Patty Laroche

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

Marbles and Jokers is one of our favorite games.  Dave and I were introduced to it a few years ago and immediately became fans.  Since that time, most of the couples whom we taught to play have ordered the game for themselves and for their adult children.

Months ago, we had two couples over for dinner and taught them the game.  The following morning, one pair ordered the game for themselves.  We play marathon M&J every chance we can.

Today, while talking to my friend, Lael, a fellow M&J player, I shared with her that wonderful things seem to happen over dinner and that game.  She asked how many people had bought the game because of us.  I said about 30.  But then she asked me a question that made me realize the opportunity I was missing.

“Can you imagine sharing Jesus with 30 people over the course of the last few years?”  Granted, most of the people who have played this game with us are Christians, but some aren’t, and even though they know where we stand, why haven’t I been as determined to tell them about Heaven as I have been about teaching them a competitive game? Too, could Marbles and Jokers be the tool I use to do so?  Why do I make witnessing so difficult?

Finding the way to Christ is simple, and the “Romans Road”—seven scriptures in the Book of Romans—is a great path to get there.

3:10—There is no righteous person.

3:23—Everyone sins and comes short of the glory of God.

5:12—Sin (and death) entered the world through Adam’s sin; that death was passed to all of us.

6:23—Sin leads to death, but God gives the gift of eternal life through Jesus Christ.

5:8—God covered our sins by his son, Jesus’, death.

10:13— Whoever calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.

10:9-10 (NLT) “If you openly declare that Jesus is Lord and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.”

And yes, I understand that, unless the Holy Spirit inspires me, I would not share those seven scriptures with a non-believer I had invited over to play a game (not even if they were winning and I wanted them to go home).

There are simpler ways to witness. Our example, for…well, example.  This school year, I have had many opportunities to pray for faculty and students.  Sometimes, it is as simple as hearing their problems and asking how I can pray for them.  Other times, I drop them a note to tell them what a blessing they are to me or simply to encourage them, reminding them that God hears our prayers.

I have had deep conversations with students who were wounded by their parents, reminding them that we all are sinners and that God grieves when He sees parental figures abusing their children.  I have apologized to an entire class when I showed anger instead of doling out fair consequences, telling them that as a Christian, I failed to show mercy.

Lael’s question made me realize that I was missing an incredible opportunity.  After all, losing a game is nothing compared to losing our eternal lives.

Fort Scott Community College, Government

FSCC Agendas for Today and April 20

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FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING

ELLIS FINE ARTS CENTER

APRIL 17, 2026 – 12:00 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – VICE-CHAIR CHAD MCKINNIS

1.1 Roll Call of Trustees by the Clerk

___Bailey___Brown___Cosens___Hoyt___McKinnis___Ropp

2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION

3.0 PRESENTATION OF 2024-25 AUDIT                    (INFORMATION)

4.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES                  (INFORMATION)

4.1 Academics – Vice President of Academic Affairs – Dr. Larry Guerrero

4.2 Advancement – Dean of Advancement – Lindsay Hill

4.3 Athletics – Athletic Director – Dave Wiemers

4.4 Finance – CFO – Vice President of Finance & Operations – Gina Shelton

4.5 Student Services – Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner

4.6 Administrative Committees – Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner

4.7 Presidential Update – President Dr. Jack Welch

5.0 REVIEW OF APRIL 20TH AGENDA ITEMS           (INFORMATION)

6.0 BOARD PICTURES                                                      (INFORMATION)

7.0 BOARD MEMBER TRAINING                                   (INFORMATION)

8.0 ADJOURN                                                                                       (ACTION)

 

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE

BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING

ELLIS FINE ARTS CENTER

APRIL 20, 2026 – 5:30 P.M.

PUBLIC AGENDA

 

1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR

2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION

3.0 APPROVAL OF OFFICIAL AGENDA                                    (ACTION)

4.0 APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA                                  (ACTION)

4.1 Minutes

4.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report

4.3  Check Register – $738,222.98

4.4  Payroll

  • March 13, 2026 – $731,953.65
  • April 15, 2026 – $707,707.76

4.5  Contract Ratification

5.0 COMMUNITY, EMPLOYEE, AND STUDENT RECOGNITION                                                                                                      (INFORMATION)

5.1 Program Review – President and Ag Ambassadors

  • Student Ambassadors will present to the board on their programs

5.2 Recognition: Students & Program Update

  • Spring Sports – Coaches & Captains
    • Track
    • Softball
    • Baseball

6.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES                  (INFORMATION)

7.0 OLD BUSINESS

7.1 State of the College address will be: (INFORMATION)

  • May 21st at 12 pm in the Ellis Fine Arts building

7.2 Graduation Information and Discussion                                                                                       (INFORMATION)

7.3 Board Goals                                                                   (ACTION)

7.4 FRAME Grant Update                                 (INFORMATION)

8.0 NEW BUSINESS

8.1 4.5 Work Week Proposal                          (INFORMATION)

8.2 Board Policies                                               (INFORMATION)

8.3 Food Service Contract                                             (ACTION)

8.4 Tuition & Fees                                                               (ACTION)

8.5 Heavy Equipment Operator Equipment Purchases                                                                                                                    (ACTION)

8.6 Consideration of Professional Services Agreement                                                                                                                    (ACTION)

9.0 PUBLIC FORUM

Comments should be restricted to no more than three minutes.  Requests should be submitted by noon on the day of the Board meeting.  Forms will be presented to the Board Chair for consideration.  Matters which are personal in nature or relate to personnel matters will not be heard publicly.

 

 

 

10.0 PERSONNEL

10.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.2 Exit Executive Session – Return to Open Session                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.3 Employment Matters of Non-Elected Personnel                                                                                                                     (ACTION)

10.4 Resolution for Nonrenewal 26-05                    (ACTION)

10.5 Addition of Athletic Trainer Position              (ACTION)

10.6 Addition of Performance Director Position                                                                                                     (ACTION)

11.0 BOARD COMMENTS

11.1 Reports of Board Member Appointments                                                                                                      (INFORMATION)

12.0 ADJOURN                                                                                    (ACTION)

 

 

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