Art, Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, Youth

2025 Student Competition: Arteffect

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2025 Student Art Competition

Interested in participating in the ARTEFFECT annual student art competition? Follow the step-by-step guide. Students in grades 6-12 worldwide are invited to participate. Bring the competition into your classroom!
Steps to Participate
  1. Choose an individual from the pre-approved list of LMC Unsung Heroes.
  2. Read the competition rules and guidelines for eligibility and submission information. View the judging rubric for insights on scoring.
  3. Artworks in multiple 2D & 3D mediums are accepted. There are new 2025 Spotlight Prizes for 3D and large format. Follow the Impact Statement Outline for structuring the accompanying essay (500-1000 words).
  4. Submit your project through the online portal by April 27, 2025.

More Resources:
Visit ARTEFFECT Competition
2025 Spotlight Prize – Unsung Hero

Introducing
Paleontologist Mary Anning
Mary Anning overcame both poverty and sexism to emerge as a trailblazer in 19th-century science. Born in 1799, Anning grew up along the Jurassic Coast in Lyme Regis, Great Britain where she faced hardship early in life when her father passed away, leaving her family impoverished. At the age of eleven, her brother’s discovery of a mysterious skull sparked her lifelong passion for fossil hunting. Anning supported her family by selling fossils at her shop, Anning’s Fossil Depot, and went on to revolutionize paleontology. She unearthed groundbreaking discoveries, including the first complete ichthyosaur, plesiosaur, and pterosaur skeletons, as well as numerous other marine fossils. Despite her pivotal contributions, Anning was barred from joining the Geological Society of London and did not receive due recognition for her work. Today, her legacy endures, with many of her fossils housed in the Natural History Museum in London.

ARTEFFECT projects submitted to the competition that interpret the life and legacy of Mary Anning are eligible for the Spotlight Prize category. Learn more about Mary Anning’s story below:
Learn more about Mary Anning
Stay connected with ARTEFFECT through our expanding social media channels on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube.
Join a growing network of art educators at the
For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
ARTEFFECT Facebook
ARTEFFECT Instagram
LMC ARTEFFECT
ARTEFFECT YouTube
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Government, Kansas

Kansas Shows Growth in Economic Health and Labor Market

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Governor Kelly Announces 2024 Kansas Economic Report, Highlighting Key Points of Growth

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that the 2024 Kansas Economic Report shows growth in the state’s labor workforce, continued low unemployment, and record exports. The report, produced by the Labor Market Information Services division of the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL), comprehensively analyzes the state’s economic health and labor market trends.

The annual publication highlights critical data on employment, unemployment, labor force participation, job growth, personal income, and more, providing an essential resource for businesses, policymakers, and job seekers.

  • Labor Force Growth: In 2023, Kansas saw a 0.6% increase in its labor force, adding 8,385 individuals and bringing the total labor force to over 1.51 million. The number of employed Kansans reached a record high of 1.47 million, reflecting the state’s resilience and ongoing recovery.
  • Unemployment Rates: Kansas maintained a low unemployment rate, rising slightly to 2.7% in 2023, still well below the national average of 3.6%. Despite the modest increase, Kansas continues to outperform the national labor market.
  • Job Market Rebounds: Kansas’ nonfarm jobs surpassed pre-pandemic levels, with a total of 1.44 million jobs in 2023. Private sector employment led this growth, adding 23,800 jobs, while the government sector added 3,700 jobs.
  • Industry and Occupational Projections: Health care, transportation, and computer-related occupations are expected to grow significantly through 2032. Occupations typically requiring a bachelor’s degree are expected to add the most jobs from 2022 to 2032.
  • Export Growth: Kansas’ export market hit a record of $14.1 billion in sales, driven by growth in the transportation equipment and processed foods sectors. However, exports to Kansas’ top trade partners—Mexico, Canada, and Japan—have declined over the year.

“The growth we are seeing is encouraging and shows the progress made in revitalizing our state’s economy,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This report reinforces my administration’s commitment to making Kansas the best state to live, work, and raise a family.”

“Kansas continues to show resilience in its economic recovery, as demonstrated by rising employment numbers and strong job growth in key sectors,” Kansas Secretary of Labor Amber Shultz said. “However, demographic challenges such as a shrinking younger population highlight the need for careful attention to workforce development as we plan for the future.”

The report also discusses long-term demographic trends, citing concerns about the state’s aging population and declining numbers of younger workers, which could pose challenges to future labor force sustainability.

To address those issues, the Kansas Department of Commerce has been working with businesses to attract new talent. It recently launched its Love, Kansas campaign to bring those who left the state back to their roots in Kansas.

“It’s simple: we need more humans in Kansas to keep up with the phenomenal economic growth our state is experiencing,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The best way to do that is to first approach Kansans who left the state for economic opportunities elsewhere and invite them to build a life in a place they know and have connections to, whether in their hometown or elsewhere in the state.  And with the Love, Kansas campaign, we aren’t just extending an invitation to those who once called Kansas home to come back–we’re also inviting families from around the country to build their lives in the Sunflower State.”

KDOL’s full report is available here.

###
Stay Connected with Kansas Office of the Governor:
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Business, Food, Fort Scott

Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting at Outpost 13 West Today at 5:15 p.m.

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Join us for a Ribbon Cutting

Thursday, October 17th!
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Chamber After-hours Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting to celebrate Outpost 13 West, Thursday, October 17th, from 5:15 to 6:30pm. The new restaurant is located in the Downtown Historic District at 13 W. Oak St. where the celebratory remarks and cutting of the ribbon will take place at 5:30pm.

The Bowman family is deeply rooted in Downtown and the restaurant business, owning NuGrille and Brickstreet BBQ, and is excited to present the new Outpost 13 West featuring Southwest cuisine where you design your own tacos, burrito, nacho, salad, or bowl. The business officially opened on September 23rd and this Ribbon Cutting event will officially celebrate the opening with the community.

John and Cindy Bowman purchased the building for Outpost 13 West in 2021 and started refurbishing the property. The building dates back to 1862 and was originally a livery and feed stable. The Bowman’s son Alex and his wife Carissa are part owners in the restaurant along with John and Cindy. The Bowman’s feel the new restaurant has been well received in the community and people have seemed to really enjoy the food and experience. For more information and updates on Outpost 13 West, follow their Facebook page and other social media.

Click here for their Facebook Page!

Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Church news, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Ernie Couch and Revival at 1st Methodist Church on Oct. 26

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Join First United Methodist Church as they host Ernie Couch and Revival!
Saturday October 26th @ 6pm

First United Methodist, 301 S. National St., will host Ernie Couch and Revival.

The concert is a freewill offering Gospel Concert.

“From its inception, EC&R has produced high energy, emotionally colorful music reflective of the diverse musical heritage that has made their Music City home of Nashville internationally famous. The group’s unique blend of traditional, country, and contemporary gospel music speaks to people of all ages and all walks of life.”
Also, mark your calendars and join First United Methodist for:

a FRIENDSHIP SOUP LUNCHEON – Friday, October 25th  – freewill donation fundraiser to support for the mission and ministries of our church  – join us from 11:30am to 1pm for potato and vegetable soups and chili, with desert!

4th Annual Trunk or Treat Thursday, Oct. 31st

5:30pm until dusk! Free! Bring the kids or grandkids by to show off their costumes!

Make sure to click here to follow their Facebook page for future events and details!

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Opinion

Letter to the Editor: Michael Hoyt

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The actions of this tax abatement under the pretense of providing “updates and upgrades to the former Mercy Hospital” will greatly impact the budgets of each taxing entity for years 2023, 2024, & 2025. Also leaves many unanswered questions such as when will the property be subject to tax again?
Submitted by  Michael J Hoyt
To view the document he submitted:
Business, Food, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Outpost 13 Ribbon Cutting is Oct. 17

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Join us for a Ribbon Cutting

Thursday, October 17th!
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Chamber After-hours Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting to celebrate Outpost 13 West, Thursday, October 17th, from 5:15 to 6:30pm. The new restaurant is located in the Downtown Historic District at 13 W. Oak St. where the celebratory remarks and cutting of the ribbon will take place at 5:30pm.

The Bowman family is deeply rooted in Downtown and the restaurant business, owning NuGrille and Brickstreet BBQ, and is excited to present the new Outpost 13 West featuring Southwest cuisine where you design your own tacos, burrito, nacho, salad, or bowl. The business officially opened on September 23rd and this Ribbon Cutting event will officially celebrate the opening with the community.

John and Cindy Bowman purchased the building for Outpost 13 West in 2021 and started refurbishing the property. The building dates back to 1862 and was originally a livery and feed stable. The Bowman’s son Alex and his wife Carissa are part owners in the restaurant along with John and Cindy. The Bowman’s feel the new restaurant has been well received in the community and people have seemed to really enjoy the food and experience. For more information and updates on Outpost 13 West, follow their Facebook page and other social media.

Click here for their Facebook Page!

Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Facebook  Twitter  Pinterest
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Obituary

Obituary of Darlene Chermok

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Darlene Agnes Chermok, age 85, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, October 15, 2024, at the Arma Health and Rehab, in Arma, Kansas. She was born on a farm near Prague, Nebraska on June 20, 1939, the daughter of Adolph Vachal and Tillie Fencl Vachal. She graduated from Prague High School as the Valedictorian of her class.

She met and married Louis Chermok while both were working in Columbus, Nebraska, in 1960. They moved to Lawrence, Kansas, where they had five children. Patrick, Michael, Richard, Teresa, and Daniel Chermok.

In 1972 they moved to Fort Scott, where Louis helped set up a Manufacturing company called Craft Fabricators, where they manufactured shower doors.

From 1993 to 2003, they moved to Virginia to set up another manufacturing plant called Craft Diston. Darlene took the position of office manager there.

After their return to Fort Scott in 2003 both Louis and Darlene became active at the Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church, where Darlene was president of the Altar Society for several years.

 

Survivors include Michael Chermok (Kristin) of Parker, Kansas, Teresa Chermok, Fort Scott, Kansas, Daniel Chermok (Dalene) of Fruita, Colorado; four grandchildren, Nathan, Jessica, Kalene, Jacob; and four great-grandchildren, Weston, Lilly, Lincoln, Oakley. She was preceded in death by her husband Louis, two sons, Patrick and Richard Chermok, and her parents.

 

Father Yancey Burgess will conduct Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 A.M. Friday, October 18th at the John F. Kennedy Gymnasium.  Burial will follow in the St. Mary’s Cemetery in Ft. Scott, Kansas.  The family will receive friends on Friday from 9:00 – 9:30 A.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Memorials are suggested to the St. Mary’s Building Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 

Business, Food, Fort Scott

Tea Club Meets Oct. 16 at Papa Don’s

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Mmm Flavor Shop’s Fall Tea Club will be Wednesday, October 16 at 6 pm. It will be held at Papa Don’s Pizza in Downtown Fort Scott.

The topic will be Herbal Teas.

Free Samples will include Chai Water, Homesteader’s Coffee (Dandelion Root and Chicory blend), Elderberry Water, and Tulsi (Holy Basil) Tea.

Come enjoy a cup and learn how herbal teas can help keep you healthier this coming winter season.

Area News, Fort Scott

Foundation Hosts Chamber Coffee on Oct. 17

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Join us for Chamber Coffee!

Thursday, October 17th, 8am
Hosted by Fort Scott Area Community Foundation

200 S. Main St.

Landmark National Bank

Click here for their website.

Click here for their Facebook page.

_____________

We hope to see you there for Networking * Community News * Refreshments!
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee this Thursday, October 17th at 8 am hosted by the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, 200 S. Main St, at Landmark National Bank. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize drawing.

The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation was launched in 2007 by a visionary group of community leaders to connect donors and build enduring charitable funds that improved the quality of life for Bourbon County residents. Since then, over $350,000 in grants have been awarded to area organizations, schools, and churches. Each fall, FSACF hosts a competitive grant cycle, and this year, we are pleased to award grants totaling $77,591.

Join us as we announce and recognize the grant recipients during Chamber Coffee on Thursday, October 17.

Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 
Fort Scott, Government, Schools

USD234 Board of Education Meeting on October 14 News Release

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Jared McKay, Wendy Budd, Chris Garzone. Submitted photo.

Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

 
 

Superintendent                                                                                                                                            

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, October 14, 2024

 

The Board of Education of USD 234, Fort Scott, Kansas, met for a Board Training Session at their offices at 424 S. Main at 4:00 p.m.

President David Stewart opened the meeting.

 

Michelle Hubbard, Leadership Field Specialist from KASB, was present to work with the Board Members to help in understanding the Board’s role in the district.

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, September 09, 2024, for their regular monthly meeting at the board office.

President David Stewart opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:

Board Minutes

09/09/24 Minutes

09/25/24 Minutes

Financials – Cash Flow Report

Check Register

Payroll – September 20, 2024 – $1,673,203.67

Activity Funds Accounts

USD 234 Gifts

Declare Surplus Property – Vehicles to be sold at auction

Mr. Garzone, Principal at Winfield Scott, recognized two employees that work in the Focus/Sensory Room at the elementary school. Wendy Budd, in her fifteenth year, and Jared McKay, in his seventh year, both were commended for their hard work and passion for the students. They explained how they are Safety Care Trained and work with the students in de-escalation techniques. Their presence is a huge help to not only the students but the staff as well.

 

 

 

 

Superintendent Destry Brown reported on school enrollment from 2023 to September 2024. He also reviewed with the Board the District Values, Vision, and Goals.

 

Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided the Board with a printed report that included updates from all departments such as the district serving 1700 meals a day and prepping the buildings for the colder months.

 

Tonya Barnes, Special Education Director, updated the Board on the Special Education CAT Aid payment. She also reported on the upcoming training for the SPED Teachers that will be held in November.

 

The Board Approved the following items:

  • Audit Contract with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, CPA
  • Frary Field Turf Replacement with Mammoth Sports Constructions
  • Doral Renewable Contribution Agreement

 

Superintendent Brown stated that Seat #6 would be open for applications. This opening will be posted in the newspaper for thirty days.

 

Superintendent Brown updated the Board on the Bus Accident that happened earlier this month and the steps that will be taken to prevent this from happening in the future. He also cleared up some rumors and explained the incident.

 

There were no comments during public forum.

 

The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED

October 14, 2024

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

 

Hendricks, Caleb – Supplemental Resignation – Girls Basketball – Middle School

 

LEAVE OF ABSENCE:

 

Sprague, Sierra – Leave of Absence

Travis, Hayden – Leave of Absence

 

TRANSFER:

 

Hood, Dusty – High School Custodian to Middle School Custodian

Ogle, Anthony – Middle School Custodian to High School Custodian

 

EMPLOYMENT:

Certified Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:

 

Fountain, Justin – Long Term Substitute for 6th Math – Middle School

 

Classified Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:

 

Ballou, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Coffman, Donald – Cook – Middles School

Day, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

Henderson, Andrew – Groundskeeper/Fields Maintenance

Merriman, Virginia – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware – Part Time

Torres Francis – Van Driver

Trimble, Aidan – Paraprofessional – Eugene Ware

 

Supplemental Recommendations for the 2024-25 school year:

 

Beth, Whitney – Head Track Coach – Middle School

Corbitt, Cheyenne – Sponsor for Second Intramurals

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                                                                                                                                                 

 

Bourbon County Local News