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)

 

 

Fort Scott, Government

Unofficial Minutes of the April 7 FS City Commission Meeting

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of April 7, 2026                                        Regular Meeting

 

A meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held  in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer, Tim Van Hoecke, Julie Buchta and Mayor Kathryn Salsbury were present.

 

              In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Deputy Chief Mike Miles/FSFD, Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Lisa Dillon/Housing & Neighborhood Revitalization Coordinator, Mary Wyatt/Planning, Housing & Business Development Director, Jason Dickman/Earles Engineering & Inspections LLC, Daniel Wilson/Owner-Repair Guy, Alex Swank, Kathy Dancer, and Jess Milburn/JCM Restoration.

 

SALSBURY led the Pledge of Allegiance and BUCHTA said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the Citizens, our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the Amended agenda as presented. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consent Agenda

–  Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1405-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of

March 11, 2026 – April 2, 2026 – $763,783.28

–  Approval of Minutes:  Regular Meeting of March 17, 2026

–  Request to Pay – Application No. 1 – Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking, Inc. – Davis Lift Station – Mobilization Costs for Bond Expenses and Materials – $28,596.00

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Public Comment – No comments

Appearances

Alex Swank – addressed the Commission to purchase a parcel owned by the City at approximately 101 Clark. Leasing option was discussed because the City maintains it will not sell property.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to open the process to solicit bids for a (5) year lease with the stipulation to include something to legally cover any liability.

 

FARMER added a point of reference that even though the motion is made, nothing happens until it’s written, the Commission has seen it, (the winning bidder) sees it, and it’s signed.

 

BUCHTA seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS, DANCER and SALSBURY voted yes.

VAN HOECKE voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

ACTION:  FARMER will write the lease document.

 

Kathy Dancer – addressed the Commission to inform them that the tasks placed upon the CLG board will require a budget and she is requesting they consider that in the upcoming 2027 budget planning. The FSHRPC is exploring grants but the ordinance that was approved did include the establishment of a Preservation Fund and briefly explained how that money would be used. DANCER also stated the fine frequencies outlined in the approved ordinance. Currently in the enforcement section, the wording only addresses the demolition of a building or does any kind of improvements without getting the proper permitting and proper approvals, then it’s enforceable. She does not see provisions to enforce outside of that. Also, the wording is incorrect. It was approved as per week but the ordinance states per day. She explained that violations demolition by neglect, gross neglect of a building or safety hazards are a different category and are not in the current ordinance. She asked the Commission to revisit that and the frequency of fining, with safety issues being of the greatest concern.

 

Discussion was had about the fining process as it relates to enforcement through the municipal court and addressing additional definitions to be included in the ordinance.

 

KRUGER stated that anything that is going to be enforced must be paired with a K.S.A. and the state sets the fine schedule per class of crime, the maximums and the minimums. He stated that Class B Misdemeanor does not go up to $1000.00, the maximum is $500.00 and the minimum is $50.00. Currently no fine amount is put on a citation only a Notice to Appear (in court) and the prosecutor will set the fine amount. He explained how the multiple (day to week) fines currently work in our municipal court and what is able to be fined and what is not.

 

Executive Session:

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussing personnel matters of non-elected personnel pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners, City Attorney and City Manager. The open meeting will resume in the City Commission Room at 6:43PM. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

            MOTION:  DANCER moved to come out of Executive Session. WELLS seconded.

 

            MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

Unfinished Business

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3799-Contractor License –Tabled from March 17, 2026

 

Discussion was had about the implementation of contractor licenses. BUCHTA read a letter she received from Tim Barasa/General Contractor and Licensed Realtor.

 

WILSON/Owner of Repair Guy addressed the Commission to inform them that he is in favor of a licensing program but has concerns about the contractor board that is being considered and where the money collected for licenses will go and suggested background checks for community safety.

 

BUCHTA read a text message she received from another contractor (who wanted to remain anonymous) regarding the licensing.

 

Further discussion was had on the intent of the license to protect citizens and support all local businesses and whether the Commission is in agreement with the proposed ordinance.

 

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to table the ordinance.

 

VAN HOECKE requested to amend BUCHTA’S motion to have the ordinance returned to the table at the second meeting of July with a work session prior to that meeting to include all contractors.

 

VAN HOECKE seconded (the original motion with amendment).

 

The City Clerk verified that BUCHTA’S motion was as follows:

 

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to table Ordinance No. 3799 until the second meeting of July. VAN HOECKE seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

ACTION:  FARMER will draft an ordinance for the interim to enforce that contractors must show proof of insurance when applying for a permit with the Codes office.

 

DANCER left the meeting at 7:20PM

 

New Business

Action Items:

Consideration of Ordinance No. 3798 – Disband Design Review Board

DILLON requested by ordinance that the Commission dissolve the Design Review Board since the City has received its CLG status.

 

MOTION:  WELLS moved to approve Ordinance No. 3798 to Disband the Design Review Board. SALSBURY seconded. BUCHTA, WELLS and SALSBURY voted yes. VAN HOECKE voted no. DANCER was not present for the vote.

 

MOTION CARRIED 3-1.

 

Consideration to Approve Sale of Fire Truck

MILES requested the approval of the Commission to advertise and sell the 1997 (E-One-American Eagle Top Mount Custom Pumper) Fire Truck which is no longer in service and has been replaced with the newly purchase truck. MATKIN stated the proceeds will be placed in a fire department equipment fund.

 

DANCER returned to the meeting at 7:23PM

 

MILES stated that the new engine is at Station One and the Pierce was moved over to Station Two and explained the plan to avoid wear and tear.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to allow the fire department to advertise and sell the 1997 fire truck without equipment with the understanding that the funds will go into a fire equipment fund and report the proceeds to the City Manager who will report it to the Commission.

 

MILES added that the proceeds are being earmarked for extrication equipment.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Approve Purchase of Pumps, Control Panel and Guide Rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations – $25,860.00

LEMKE stated that over the past (3) years they have been working on improvements for lift stations. This year, Williamsburg (on Tiffany Land) and White Grill Lift Stations (215th and Hwy 54) were selected. Williamsburg’s control panel is approximately (20) years old and the components are getting harder to find. It currently has one pump that is non-operational. The White Grill station has been underwater several times including the control panel. Currently one of the pumps is bypassing and not pumping water. He is requesting permission to replace the control panels and the pumps for both stations using Haynes Equipment for the price of $25,860.00. Grainger’s quote did not include guide rails and the third contact could only offer a complete lift station which is not needed. The work will be done in house, however Haynes has included a one-day startup time if they need assistance. MATKIN stated it will come from the Wastewater Fund.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the purchase of pumps, control panels and guide rails for Williamsburg and White Grill Lift Stations from Haynes Equipment for a total of $25,860.00. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

 

 

Consideration of Bids for Repair of Retaining Walls at Gunn Park

MATKIN stated there were (2) bids received with the lowest bid coming in at $66,000.00 from JCM Restoration which he is recommending for approval.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to approve the bid from JCM Restoration for $66,000.00 for repairing the retaining wall at Gunn Park. BUCHTA seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration to Extend Hay Rights for (3) Years

MATKIN stated that currently the invitation for bids is for a (1) year awarded contract. He would like to extend that to a (3) year contract beginning with this year’s invitation to bid for Hay Rights at the airport.

 

MOTION:  BUCHTA moved to approve the extension of the hay rights to (3) years at the next bid opportunity. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Reports and Comments      

 

City Engineer:

            –  Davis Lift Station update – Vanessa is supervisor until lift station work, then Gary

            –  Wall Street – CCLIP update

 

VAN HOECKE left the meeting at 7:49PM and immediately returned.

 

            –  Horton asphalt update

 

ACTION:  DICKMAN will follow up with Heck & Wicker

           

City Attorney:  No Comment

 

City Manager:

–  8th & Eddy is complete and open

            –  Groundwork for outdoor fitness park at BRCC

–  New Clubhouse Manager at Woodland Hills Golf Course and new tee time system that allows everything, including score keeping by your phone-including POS system.

–  Moody Building – owner waiting on title report

–  Airport hangar lease – Geoffrey Marr

–  Timken building update

–  Valu building is sold – cannot disclose information yet

–  IT Department at next meeting for update

–  Public Works update first meeting in May

–  April 16 – City/County Meeting at 6:00PM

–  Natalia hired to work with Rachel Carpenter on Public Information

 

Commissioner Van Hoecke:

            –  Dragoons Baseball season tickets

–  Keep military and first responders in prayers

 

Commissioner Buchta:

            –  8th & Eddy

–  Salsbury with KDOT

 

Commissioner Dancer:

            –  Non-residential residents situation

 

ACTION:  WORK SESSION – May 5 – Homeless situation

WORK SESSION – May 19 – Contractor licenses

 

Commissioner Wells:

            –  Barber Shop (118 E. Wall St.) update

 

ACTION:  Barber Shop on next agenda (April 21)

 

–  Skubitz Plaza meeting at 1:30PM

–  Federal government cuts

 

Commissioner Salsbury:

            –  Code review sent to MATKIN for Commission action

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will distribute to all Commissioners

 

–  8th & Eddy intersection open

 

Adjourn

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:27PM. BUCHTA seconded.

 

APRIL 7, 2026, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:27PM.

 

 

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis/City Clerk

 

 

 

 

 

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Agenda for April 21

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

April 21, 2026  –  6:00 P.M.

 

                                                                  

  1.     Call to Order
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1406-A – Expense Approval Report –

Payment Dates of April 3, 2026 – April 15, 2026 – $244,363.32

  1. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of April 7, 2026
  2. Request to Pay – Application No. 2 – Jeff Asbell Excavating & Trucking, Inc. – Davis Lift Station – Mobilization Costs and Materials Stored on Site – $195,145.14
  3. March Financials

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Casey Brown /Community Engagement Coordinator – SEK-CAP Action Program

 

VIII.   Unfinished Business

  1. Revisit Consideration to Sell City-owned Parcel – 101 S. Clark – Alex Swank – Previously considered April 7, 2026
  2. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3797 – Connex Boxes – L. Dillon
  3. Consideration of 118 E. Wall St. – B. Matkin

 

  1. New Business

            Public Hearing:

  1. Consideration to Vacate Alley – Daugherty Enterprises, LLC – Dennis S. Daugherty

 

Action Items:

  1. Consideration to Purchase Water Meters & Register for 2026 Annual Changeout Program from Sole Source Vendor – $111,496.16 – B. Lemke
  2. Consideration to Purchase Mower for LaRoche Complex – $23,500.00 – D. Fowler
  3. Discussion of Gunn Park Caretaker’s House – M. Wells
  4. Discussion of Horton Street – M. Wells

 

  1. Reports and Comments

 

  1. Adjourn
Bourbon County, Schools, Youth

Bourbon County Teams Dominate 2026 SunPowered Student Challenge

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 CLC WASPS Named Grand Champions

Three Heartland-sponsored teams from Bourbon County combine for four first-place finishes and overall championship title

 

WICHITA, Kan. — Three teams of Bourbon County high schoolers sponsored by Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative brought home four first-place awards — including the Grand Champion title — at the 2026 SunPowered Student Challenge, held April 8 at Wichita State University.

The WASPS from Christian Learning Center in Fort Scott topped the overall standings with 1,323 points, outpacing eight other teams from Kansas and Oklahoma to claim Grand Champion honors. Two teams from Uniontown High School — the Solar Queens and Solar Eagles — also finished in the top three overall, giving Heartland-sponsored teams a sweep of the event’s top spots.

“As rural electric cooperatives, it’s part of our mission to help educate our communities, and that includes the next generation as well,” said Mark Scheibe, CEO of Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative. “If we can spark curiosity in students, and if we can help them see the future in energy or engineering, or take some of the problem-solving skills that they learn during this competition to apply in their future lives, then that’s a win for them and the communities that we serve.”

The SunPowered Student Challenge is a statewide competition that begins in the classroom — student teams work through a hands-on solar energy curriculum over several months before competing at Wichita State University. Challenges include designing and installing photovoltaic arrays on scaled model buildings, analyzing real-world site conditions, delivering professional presentations and collaborating with teams they’ve never worked with before.

The competition was founded in partnership with Kansas Rural Electric Cooperatives, Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Pitsco Education and Ten80 Education, and is now housed under the nonprofit Future STEAM.

Heartland REC helped create the program in 2024 and continues as both a program and team sponsor. The cooperative has sponsored teams from communities across its southeast Kansas service territory.

Results by Team:

Submitted photos.

WASPS — Christian Learning Center

Team members: Holly Cain, Ryan Cain, Abby Jacobs, Henry Morris

Coach: Scott Cain

  • 1st Place — Team Presentation
  • 1st Place — Solar Site Design Challenge
  • Grand Champions (Overall)
  • 1st Place — Collaborative Challenge (with Uniontown Solar Eagles and Lincoln Solar Leopards)
Submitted photos.


Solar Queens — Uniontown High School

Team members: Aryonnah Beaton, Camilla Cagle, Paityn Hueston, Jiyah Middleton

Coaches: Carrie Sutcliffe and Christal Martin

  • 1st Place — Creative Curb Appeal
Submitted photos.


Solar Eagles — Uniontown High School

Team members: Ziggy Barbour, Adam Page, Ty Shelton, Ash Sporleder

Coach: Brad Johnson

  • 1st Place — Skills Challenges
  • 1st Place — Collaborative Challenge (with CLC WASPS and Lincoln Solar Leopards)

 

Overall Scores:

School/Team Name Score
CLC WASPS 1323
Uniontown Solar Eagles 1218
Uniontown Solar Queens 1107
Beloit Solar Swords 1030
Lincoln Solar Leopards 1011
Woodward Solar Boomers 1 900
Woodward Solar Boomers 2 823
Oxford Ra 811
Woodward Solar Boomers 3 + Rock Creek 796

 

About Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative

Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. is a member-owned, not-for-profit electric utility powering rural lifestyles throughout more than 11,000 locations in eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes member-owners in 12 counties: Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson.

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Government, Jobs

Virtual Statewide Job Fair is April 23

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Spring Into a New Career at KANSASWORKS Virtual Statewide Job Fair

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Thursday, April 23.

“Companies are investing in Kansas — making this the perfect time for you to start investing in a new fulfilling career,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “With an array of industries represented at this month’s job fair, our KANSASWORKS professionals can help you find the perfect fit.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

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Fort Scott, Gordon Parks Museum, History

Fort Scott Stories Documentary Film Premiere is April 25

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The Gordon Parks Museum at Fort Scott Community College is excited to remind the community and surrounding region of the upcoming premiere of Fort Scott Stories, a powerful feature-length documentary created in partnership with acclaimed photojournalist and filmmaker D. Michael Cheers, recipient of the 2025 Choice of Weapons Award.

The premiere will take place on Saturday, April 25, 2026. Doors open at 6:30 p.m., with the screening beginning at 7:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required. Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets as soon as possible, as availability is limited and the event is nearing capacity. Donations are welcome and will support the ongoing work and programming of the Gordon Parks Museum.

As the premiere date approaches, anticipation continues to grow for Fort Scott Stories, a documentary that captures the spirit, voices, and lived experiences of the Fort Scott community. Through deeply personal interviews and rich storytelling, the film reflects the beauty, complexity, and resilience of everyday life, echoing the legacy of Gordon Parks and his 1950 photographic work in Fort Scott.

“Fort Scott Stories is about honoring the everyday lives that shape a community,” said D. Michael Cheers. “Gordon Parks taught us that there is power, dignity, and beauty in telling people’s stories with honesty and care. This film is my creative way of continuing that conversation, by listening deeply, bearing witness, and allowing Fort Scott to speak for itself.”

Executive Director Kirk Sharp emphasizes the emotional impact of the film: “This documentary will make you smile, cry, and feel inspired. It is an honest and deeply human reflection of our community, bridging the past and present while inviting us to reflect on who we are and where we are going.”

Inspired by Gordon Parks’ unpublished LIFE magazine assignment in Fort Scott in 1950, this film continues his legacy of truth-telling through art, empathy, and vision.

The documentary also features actor Kyle Johnson, who portrayed Gordon Parks in the 1968 film The Learning Tree and is a 2021 Choice of Weapons Award recipient.

Attendees are encouraged to reserve tickets by visiting: the Gordon Parks Museum website event page at
https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by calling 620-223-2700, ext. 5850.

For more information about the Fort Scott Stories Feature Documentary Premiere in Fort Scott, Kansas, please contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700, ext. 5850, or email [email protected].

 

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Ad: What FSCC Offers

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

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

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

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

Fort Scott Community College; where opportunity meets possibility.

Bourbon County

Senior Care Coalition Meets April 22

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Senior Care Coalition
The Senior Care Coalition is an opportunity
to network, gather resource information, and
mingle with other senior care professionals
serving seniors in and around Bourbon
County. Join us!
Date: Wednesday, April 22, 2026
Time: 7:30 a.m.
Location:
Credo Senior Living
820 S. Horton Street, Fort Scott

:
Call or email Cherri Walrod, Credo Senior Living and Memory Care, with questions! 620-223-1822, option 1 or [email protected].
Network • Learn • Share
Senior Care Coalition
The Senior Care Coalition is an opportunity
to network, gather resource information, and
mingle with other senior care professionals
serving seniors in and around Bourbon
County. Join us!

Bourbon County Local News