Opinion

From the Bleachers – 754 by Dr. Jack Welch

Leave a comment

FROM THE BLEACHERS-754

BY DR. JACK WELCH

The GED That Changed Everything

Sometimes success doesn’t start with a scholarship, a draft pick, or a headline. Sometimes it starts with one simple step, a person realizing they are capable of more than they ever believed. Javon Kinlaw’s story reminds us of that.

Before he became a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Kinlaw was a kid growing up in Washington, D.C., often without a stable place to live. His family struggled financially, and there were times when home meant a friend’s basement or wherever they could find shelter. Some nights there was no electricity. At times he rode the subway just to stay warm.

Life was survival. School wasn’t always a priority, and like many young people facing difficult circumstances, Kinlaw fell behind academically. Opportunities began slipping away, even though he had the physical talent that college football programs wanted.

Something happened that changed the direction of his life. Someone gave him a chance, and it began with a GED program at a junior college in Mississippi. For Kinlaw, that step mattered far more than people might realize. Earning his GED did something powerful. It showed him that he could do it. It gave him proof that he was capable of finishing something that once felt impossible.

That moment created belief. Once he had that belief, things began to change. He enrolled at Jones College, continued his education, and developed his football skills. Soon after, he transferred to the University of South Carolina, where he became one of the best defensive linemen in college football.

Not long after that, his name was called in the first round of the NFL Draft. This is amazing, but the real turning point wasn’t the draft stage or the million-dollar contract. It was the moment he earned his GED and realized his future didn’t have to look like his past.

Community colleges and GED programs change lives every day because they give people that same moment of realization. They give someone who may have stumbled a second chance to discover their own ability. Sometimes all it takes is one open door and the courage to walk through it. For Javon Kinlaw, that door was a GED program.

Once he walked through it, everything changed.

 

Thought for the Week, “Never underestimate what can happen when opportunity meets perseverance and someone is willing to believe in you before you fully believe in yourself.” Ronnie Vinklarek, professional coach and motivational speaker.

 

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

Opinion

Embarrassingly Honest by Carolyn Tucker

Leave a comment

Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

Embarrassingly Honest

I had purchased an item at a department/grocery store and needed to return it. I slipped it into the original bag with the receipt, as required. When I entered the store, I headed toward the friendly greeter. As I approached he asked, “Do you have a return?” I said, “Yes.” I was hoping he would just place the sticker on the bag and send me on my way. But no, he opened the bag and asked, “What have we here?” I answered, “Well, it’s a bra and it won’t fit you either.” When I’m backed into a corner with no way out, I usually respond with humor because it helps with the embarrassment of being bluntly honest.

When the truth of God’s Word or the conviction of the Holy Spirit backs me into a corner,  there’s only one way to move forward – repent. And this is no laughing matter because prayer is serious business. When Christ followers realize we’ve sinned, the only option is to admit the sin, ask for forgiveness, and pray for grace to not do “it” again. Thankfully, we have hope when we fail to please God: “…if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (1 John 1:9 NLT).

Believers have to be embarrassingly honest when we confess our sin to God. Beating around the bush just doesn’t cut the mustard. God already knows what we’ve done, so it’s for our own good and spiritual progress to make a truthfully-blunt confession out loud to God. I appreciate the following scripture penned by John the beloved apostle: “My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father, He is Jesus Christ, the One who is truly righteous. He Himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins – and not only our sins but the sins of all the world” (1 John 2:1-2 NLT).

John’s letter was inspired of God to bring truth and hope to our hearts and to keep us from evil. Christ followers should be thankful that we have Jesus as our advocate to plead our case before God. When a stumbling Christian asks for forgiveness, Lawyer Jesus never loses a case – He wins every time. God isn’t looking for believers with perfect outward performances, He’s looking for those with perfect hearts. “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9 KJV).

A perfect heart is one that wants to please God, and one that is grieved over personal sin when it occurs. Other identifiers of a perfect heart include a desire for inner purity, alignment with God’s will, complete loyalty to God, and a lifelong commitment to seek God wholeheartedly. And, in the deepest part of our heart, it’s important to know without a doubt that God is patiently waiting to forgive and will restore all who are truly sorry and genuinely repent. Having a perfect heart doesn’t mean believers will flawlessly follow Christ. But it does mean we’ll commit to loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

“…let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need” (Hebrews 4:16 NASB). Sometimes our greatest need is God’s forgiveness.

The Key: You can’t pull the wool over God’s eyes, so you might as well be embarrassingly honest with Him.

Bourbon County, Business, Food, Fort Scott

First Farmers Market Vendors Meeting of the Season In April 7

Leave a comment
It’s almost that time again! The Fort Scott Farmers Market vendors are excited for a new Market Season and can’t wait to see you!
They will be meeting Tuesday, April 7, from 6 – 8 pm,
at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) Offices,
104 North National Avenue, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701 
 
April 7th, 6-8pm Vendors’ Meeting is for new and returning vendors.
Items to discuss:
Electing new officers
Market Guidelines
Various voucher programs
SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks
Applications and Fees 
They will be discussing last year’s season to see what worked, what can be improved, and what you’d like to see happen this year. 
They will elect new officers for leadership of the market.
Please look over the attached roles and consider volunteering, or someone you’d like to nominate. A smooth transition will keep the momentum established for a successful market, so President Teri Hamilton will be operating in a training/support/transitional role this year.
They will be accepting your application and fees. Please print and fill out your application, and be prepared to pay by cash or check.
2026 Fees are:
$5.00 Registration Fee
$5.00 per week
$30 (1 week per month)
$60 (2 weeks per month)
$108 (27 weeks Full Season)
Please feel free to pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in joining this year. And please reach out if any questions or comments.
“We look forward to seeing you and we can’t wait to see what you’ve got in store for the coming Market Season! It’s going to be a great year!”
Sincerely,
Teri Hamilton, President
Ethan Holly, Treasurer
Leanna Cain, Secretary

— 

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market
The Gathering Square Pavilion
111 N National Ave
Fort Scott, KS 66701
K-State Extension

Chick Days are Coming! by Hunter Nickell

Leave a comment

Chick Days are coming!

Each spring, a familiar sign goes up at local feed stores: “Chick Days Are Here.” For many families across the Southwind District, Chick Days mark the true beginning of spring. The sound of peeping chicks, the smell of fresh pine shavings, and the excitement of starting a new flock signal longer days and warmer weather ahead.

Whether you’re adding to an existing laying flock or starting backyard chickens for the first time, Chick Days at your local feed store are a great opportunity to get started. Before bringing those fluffy chicks home, though, it’s important to have the proper setup ready.

Baby chicks cannot regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks of life, so a brooder is essential. A brooder can be as simple as a large plastic tote, a stock tank, or a sturdy cardboard box, placed in a draft-free area such as a garage or outbuilding.

Line the bottom with absorbent bedding, such as pine shavings (avoid cedar shavings, which can cause respiratory irritation). Plan for about half a square foot per chick at first, increasing space as they grow.

You’ll also need a heat source. A heat lamp with a red bulb or a radiant heat plate designed for chicks works well. Start the temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the first week, then reduce by about 5 degrees each week until the chicks are fully feathered. Always secure heat lamps carefully to reduce fire risk, and check them daily. If not secured or checked, they can cause a massive fire and cause loss of animals and structures.

All baby chicks need food and fresh water! Provide a chick starter feed that contains 18–20% protein. Medicated and non-medicated options are available; the medicated starter helps prevent coccidiosis, a common intestinal disease in young poultry. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times in a shallow chick waterer to prevent drowning. Placing marbles or small stones in the waterer during the first few days can help reduce accidents. Keep feeders and waterers clean and positioned so bedding does not constantly contaminate them.

A few additional items will make management easier:

  • A thermometer to monitor brooder temperature
  • Electrolyte or vitamin supplements for water during times of stress
  • A small scoop or sifter for cleaning out wet bedding
  • A plan for long-term housing once birds outgrow the brooder

Before purchasing chicks, check local ordinances to ensure backyard poultry are allowed in your area and determine how many birds you can reasonably manage. Also consider predator protection, coop ventilation, and future feed costs.

Impulse buying can be tempting when faced with bins of fluffy chicks, but planning ahead is key. Research breeds that match your goals. Some breeds are known for high egg production, while others are better suited for meat production or dual-purpose use. Think about temperament, climate adaptability, and egg color preferences as well.

Raising backyard poultry can be a rewarding experience for families, youth projects, and small-acreage producers alike. With a little preparation and proper care, those tiny chicks will quickly grow into productive laying hens or meat birds for your household.

As you stop by your local feed store this spring, take time to prepare before bringing chicks home. A well-prepared brooder and a solid management plan will set your flock up for a healthy start — and make Chick Days an enjoyable beginning to the season. Should you have questions regarding nutrition, housing, predator control, or biosecurity practices, feel free to reach out to Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent at any Southwind Extension District Office or by email at [email protected].

Bourbon County

March 9, 2026 Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda Summary

Leave a comment
The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda

Agenda 03.09.26

March 9, 2026 | 5:30 PM

  • I. Call Meeting To Order

  • II. Pledge Of Allegiance

  • III. Prayer

  • IV. Approval Of Agenda

  • V. Approval Of Minutes (03.02.26)

  • VI. Approval Of Accounts Payable ($437,772.71)

  • VII. Public Comments

  • VIII. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Kenny Allen

  • IX. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) – Gregg Motley

  • X. Department Updates

    • a. Sewer – Matt Quick

    • b. NRP – Matt Quick

    • c. Appraisal Update – Matt Quick

    • d. County Clerk Updates

  • XI. Old Business

    • a. Salary Resolution – Beerbower

    • b. Forensic Audit – Greg Motley

  • XII. New Business

    • a. Resolution 51-25, 06-22, 48-25 Discussion – Joe Allen

  • XIII. Future Agenda Topics

  • XIV. Commissioner Comments

  • XV. Adjournment

Detailed Document Summary & Information Packet

Prior Meeting Minutes (March 2, 2026)

The commission reviewed minutes from the previous week’s session. Key discussions included:

  • Agenda Adjustments: The commission added executive sessions for attorney-client privilege and non-elected personnel. Public comments were moved to accommodate visitors, and the salary resolution was postponed to the following week. (Page 2)

  • Sick Leave Pool: Following an executive session, the commission voted unanimously to accept recommendations regarding a sick leave pool request from Lora Holdridge. (Page 3)

  • Stronghold Data Security: Representatives reported that security improvements are 80-85% complete. Ongoing issues with software backups require a joint call with vendor CIC. Concerns were also raised regarding unreturned help desk calls from elected officials. (Page 3)

  • Budget Process (Baker Tilly): Ben Hart outlined the 2027 budget approach, focusing on “goal setting” starting in April. He recommended focusing on flat property tax revenue rather than flat levy rates to ensure defensibility to the public. (Page 4)

  • Noise Resolution Analysis: County Attorney James Crux highlighted enforcement challenges with a proposed noise ordinance, noting that current decibel limits (55 day/45 night) are “guidelines” and may lead to lengthy litigation. (Page 4)

  • Sewer & Contamination Issues: Updates were provided on a civil sewer case involving KDHE. A citizen provided documentation of E. coli contamination on his property and requested stricter septic system inspections. (Page 4)

  • Public Feedback: Citizens raised concerns regarding no-bid contracts for HR and payroll services, the division of commissioner salaries among five members versus the original three, and requested more transparency in county operations. (Pages 4-5)

New Business & Future Planning

  • Producers Coop: A culvert permit for Producers Coop was unanimously approved. (Page 5)

  • LKM Membership: The commission voted to continue its $1,108 membership with the League of Kansas Municipalities for training and legislative resources. (Page 5)

  • Lake Fort Scott Fire Hydrant: Discussion was held regarding a destroyed fire hydrant. Rural Water District #2 offered to replace it for $3,200 if the county covers half. The item was tabled to research if benefiting homeowners should contribute. (Page 5)

  • Upcoming Topics: Future agendas will include the salary resolution and an appraiser presentation on the Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) rebate process. (Page 5)

Accounts Payable Summary

The packet includes a comprehensive report of open invoices due by March 6, 2026, totaling $437,772.71. Major fund allocations include:

  • General Fund: Payroll clearing and insurance premiums. (Page 7)

  • Appraisers: Residential cost handbook subscriptions and wages. (Pages 7-8)

  • Landfill: Significant payments to Allen County Public Works for MSW ($8,057.00) and various equipment repairs. (Page 10)

  • Sheriff/Correctional: Includes $13,513.50 for food services and $6,040.48 for fuel. (Pages 10-11)

  • Road & Bridge: Numerous entries for vehicle maintenance parts (O’Reilly, Amazon) and diagnostic tests. (Pages 12-13)

Obituary

Obituary of Richard Lee Cook

Leave a comment

Richard Lee Cook, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2026, in Fort Scott, KS, at the age of 75. Born on September 14, 1950, in Parsons, KS, Richard was a man whose life was marked by gentle wisdom, love, and creativity.

Richard is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda Cook, and their children: Tara & Jody Summers, Rita & Clay Wheeler, Joshua & Carrie Cook, and Paul Cook. His legacy as a loving Papa continues through his grandchildren: Gwen, Atticus, Tierza, and Adeline Summers; Ainsley, Zadie, and Rory Wheeler; and Abigail and Ethan Cook.  He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Alloway and Susan Edwards. He was proceeded in death by his parents Paul and Mary Cook.

Richard graduated from Labette County High School before furthering his education at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and Kansas State University. He spent over 30 years farming his family land alongside his father. He also spent his younger years raising and judging prize-winning hogs with pride and dedication. Richard’s commitment to hard work was evident through his 35 years of service with the City of Fort Scott.

Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as gardening, his John Deere tractor, expressing his craft and creativity through woodworking, and spending time with his beloved family.

Richard will be remembered as a gentle, wise, and loving man.  His guidance and quiet wisdom was sought by many, and his counsel was always given with kindness and thoughtfulness. His personal faith shaped who he was and how he loved.

As we bid farewell to Richard, we celebrate a life well lived. His memory, humor, love and wisdom will carry on in the lives he touched. Richard’s journey on this earth has been completed, but his spirit and presence will live on with those he loved.

Pastor Matthew Hunt will conduct funeral services at 11:30 AM Saturday, March 7th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Ft. Scott, Kansas Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 until service time at the funeral home. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com

Government

Newsletter of U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt

Leave a comment
Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

Friends,

As you are aware, the United States military began operations in Iran at the end of last week. As a member of the House Armed Services Committee, I have been closely following reports and briefings and remain mindful of the military personnel who call Kansas home and are currently serving our country. With developments continuing to unfold, I recently shared a statement. You can view my full comments here.

This week in Washington, I participated in the House Judiciary Committee hearing focused on oversight of the Department of Homeland Security with Secretary Kristi Noem testifying. During the hearing, I discussed with Secretary Noem the security needs of FIFA World Cup host cities, like Kansas City, as well as providing more and timely information to local communities regarding immigration enforcement actions.

Rep. Derek Schmidt (KS-2) questioning Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem during this week’s House Judiciary Committee hearing. Click above to view full remarks.

I also met with President Trump’s Border Czar Tom Homan this week to discuss reshaping our country’s priorities and tactics for enforcing our immigration laws in a targeted and transparent manner. I respect both Mr. Homan’s toughness and his professionalism. President Trump chose wisely in asking him to go to Minnesota to refocus illegal alien removal operations.

Earlier this week, President Trump announced his decision to appoint a new Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security. I commend the president for this decision. I believe these leadership changes will help our country reset its approach to enforcement and removal operations, and I look forward to working closely with both Secretary-designate Markwayne Mullin and Mr. Homan to enforce the law, remove criminal illegal aliens to make our country safer, and restore America’s confidence in the dedicated men and women in federal law enforcement whose professionalism and commitment to the rule of law make these important America First deportation operations sustainable.

On Wednesday, I attended a hearing held by the Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness to discuss a variety of issues within our country’s military installations. I made a point to highlight Fort Riley’s needs during the hearing, particularly the issue of transporting equipment when our personnel are deployed. I appreciate leadership from the Department of Defense testifying at the hearing and look forward to further collaboration.

Rep. Derek Schmidt (KS-2) questioning Assistant Secretary of Defense for Energy, Installations, and Environment during House Armed Services Subcommittee hearing. Click above to view full remarks.

For most of Thursday, the House Judiciary Committee held a markup to consider H.R. 7640, the Shut Down Sanctuary Policies Act. The bill asserts federal supremacy over enforcement of immigration law by pre-empting “sanctuary” jurisdictions from interfering with enforcement of immigration law. Simply put, immigration, in general, is a federal function and is constitutionally vested in the federal government. States do not have the authority to impede the federal government from enforcing federal law, and this bill is aimed at addressing that problem. I was proud to vote for this bill and look forward to its arrival on the House floor.

Also on Thursday, the House of Representatives voted 221-209 to once again pass the final annual appropriations bill to fully fund the Department of Homeland Security. The House passed this bill once before, but it has been blocked by Democrat members of the Senate. As this bill makes its way to the Senate once again, it is my sincere hope my congressional colleagues pass this final funding bill. Without final approval, those working under DHS and most of its adjacent agencies are continuing to work without pay on behalf of our country.
Around the District

Recently, I visited the Bunge facility in Emporia to receive an update on their operations within the soybean industry. Thank you all for the opportunity to come visit.
Kansans in Washington

I also enjoyed meeting with many Kansans in my office this week during their visits to Washington:

  • FIFA World Cup – KC2026
  • Kansas Association of Broadcasters
  • Leavenworth Waterworks
  • Kelly Hills Unmanned Systems
Fort Scott Community College

FSCC Adult Education Program Offers Year-Round Opportunities and Comprehensive Support

Leave a comment

 

Fort Scott, KS – The Adult Education program at Fort Scott Community College is providing individuals ages 16 and older with the opportunity to advance their education, strengthen essential skills and prepare for future success.

The FSCC Adult Education program helps students prepare to take the GED test and earn the Kansas State High School Diploma issued by the Kansas Board of Regents. In addition to GED preparation, the program offers instruction to improve skills in reading, writing, mathematics and technology.

Beyond academic preparation, the Adult Education program supports learners in several additional areas. Students receive financial literacy education to build practical money-management skills, workforce readiness training that focuses on workplace expectations and soft skills, resume-building assistance to confidently present their experience and strengths, and mock interviews and career coaching to prepare for real employment opportunities. These services help adult learners become more confident, capable and prepared for both higher education and the workforce.

“Many of our students come to the Adult Education program balancing work, family responsibilities and other challenges, but they are determined to improve their lives through education,” said Fatimah Bader, Adult Education instructor at Fort Scott Community College. “Watching students gain confidence, pass their GED tests, and move forward toward careers or college is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.”

Bader said some students even bring their children to class while working toward their goals, demonstrating their dedication to building a better future.

Adult learners can also raise their skill levels to gain employment or pursue advancement in their current careers. Classes are offered year-round to provide flexibility for students balancing work and family responsibilities. A mandatory three-day, in-person orientation is required for all new students. A $35 materials fee is due at orientation. The cost of each GED test is $39 per subject, with four subjects required for a total of $156.

In-person classes are held Monday through Thursday. Online instruction is also available, with times varying.

Classes are held at FSCC Bailey Hall, 2108 S. Horton St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.

For more information or to enroll, contact Fatimah Bader at (620) 644-6126 or (620) 223-2700, ext. 4400, or by email at [email protected].

 

Fort Scott Community College

Fort Scott Community College Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Named 2025 REACH Chapter

Leave a comment

Front Row: Taylor Ramirez, Jameson Anderson, Jackson Wood, Will DeBates, and Emmanuel Ebia
Back Row: Susie Arvidson, Braxton Young , Quinton Berg, and Ashley Page
Submitted photo.

 

 

Fort Scott, KS – The Phi Theta Kappa chapter at Fort Scott Community College has been recognized as a 2025 REACH Chapter through Phi Theta Kappa’s REACH Rewards program.

 

The REACH Rewards program honors Phi Theta Kappa chapters that demonstrate excellence in membership development and a strong commitment to expanding opportunities for eligible students. The program was created to encourage chapters to grow membership and ensure more students benefit from the organization’s mission of recognition and opportunity.

 

Through REACH, Phi Theta Kappa emphasizes the importance of providing students with access to scholarships, leadership development, and meaningful engagement with peers and faculty; all of which contribute to higher rates of student success and completion.

 

As a 2025 REACH Chapter, the FSCC Main Campus chapter will receive official Phi Theta Kappa graduation stoles. The stoles will be sent directly to the chapter’s advisor and may be distributed to chapter officers or members to wear during commencement ceremonies and keep as a symbol of their academic achievement and college completion milestone.

 

This recognition highlights the dedication of FSCC’s Phi Theta Kappa members and advisors in advancing the organization’s mission and enhancing the overall college experience for students.

 

Fort Scott Community College congratulates its Phi Theta Kappa chapter on this achievement and thanks its members and advisors for their continued commitment to student success and academic excellence.

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to host TWO Business-Building Workshops

Leave a comment

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to host TWO Business-Building Workshops

designed to help your business grow smarter and stronger.

Smarter Social Media Strategies
Tuesday, March 10th ~ 1:30-2:30 PM

&

Google Business 101
Tuesday, March 31st ~ 1:30-2:30 PM

📍Sleep Inn & Suites Conference Room

302 E. Wall St., Fort Scott

Chamber Members

$10 per workshop

Non-Members

$20 per workshop

Register for both workshops & save:

Members

$15 total

Non-Members

$25 total

Register online by clicking below

or call the Chamber at 620-223-3566!

Visit our website for more info at fortscott.com !
CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

About the classes:

Smarter Social Media Strategies

“Stop Posting and Hoping: A Smarter Social Media Strategy for Small Businesses”

Google Business 101

Learn how to improve your business visibility in local searches, build customer trust, and make your Google Business profile work for you.

About the presenter

Sara Comer, owner of Gracefully Managed of Columbus, KS has presented workshops and offers remote training around the region on topics such as e-commerce, websites, & social media.

These workshops are brought to you by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, made possible through Network Kansas and our Bourbon County eCommunity program.
DON’T FORGET TO REGISTER – CLICK HERE!

Click HERE to visit

Gracefully Managed LLC

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

Gracefully Managed LLC

website!
A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

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

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
Facebook  X  Instagram
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
Unsubscribe | Update Profile | Constant Contact Data Notice
Constant Contact
Bourbon County

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Meeting Minutes of March 4  

Leave a comment

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes

 

March 4, 2026

 

 

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

 

Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board.  Reach out to Nick if you are interested.

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:
  • Kathy Romero – Angels Care Home Health – Angels Care has several specialty programs that other companies don’t offer. The focus this month is on traumatic brain injury. Kathy has emergency blankets available for anyone working with the unhoused.  Reach out to her if you could use some.
  • Shelby Moore- Families Together – Shelby works to support students and families as they navigate the special education process.
  • Patty Simpson – Fort Scott Housing Authority – The housing authority has a few vacancies that will be filled with applicants on the waitlist as soon as they are ready. The waitlist is short right now.
  • Rachel Carpenter – City of Fort Scott
  • Janelle – Early Childhood Block Grant
  • Megan Smith – Parents as Teachers – Megan has five openings in Bourbon County.
  • Star Culp – Parents as Teachers – Star has one opening in Bourbon County.
  • Dee Dee – Greenbush Community Liaison
  • Lora Wilson – SEK/CHC
  • Theresa Amershek – Child Exchange & Visitation Center
  • Henry Coronado – SER Corporation – The SER Corporation helps students going into the tech field with financial assistance.
  • Ashlee Reader – SEK Mental Health Center
  • Cherie Walrod – Credo Senior Living – Credo has both assisted living and memory care units. On March 11th from 7:30-8:30, Credo will host a senior care coalition to network and learn more about senior care. They will also have a virtual dementia tour available that day.  Credo has several rooms/suites available.
  • Kelly Stammer – DCF – DCF is hosting a Together Family Event in Pittsburg on April 9th from 4-7pm. People of all ages are welcome to attend.
  • Nick Johnson – Early Childhood Spring Fling – April 23 from 5:00-6:30 in the FSPC Gym 409 S. Judson. All children ages birth to six and their families are invited.

 

 

  1.  Program: 

 

FSCC Cosmetology Program- Talley McCullough & Harley Watson-

Talley and Harley, current FSCC cosmetology students, explained basic components of the cosmetology program and highlighted reasons they have enjoyed the program.  The cosmetology school is a full-time program with classes Monday through Thursday from 7:30-5:00.  There is also a nail class in the evenings.  Cosmetology students learn and provide services in the areas of hair, nails, waxing, facials, massage basics, and pedicures.  Students can also pursue additional certifications in the field. The cosmetology program offers flexible enrollment opportunities.  Students complete 1500 hours throughout the program, which usually takes 10-12 months.  Since the program is through the community college, grants and financial assistance are available.  Students also noted that the program is very affordable compared to other private cosmetology schools in the region.  Several area community colleges have closed their cosmetology programs, which has led to an increase in enrollment.  Upon completion of the program, the school helps students find apprenticeships and employment and helps students obtain licensure in their preferred state. Anyone interested in cosmetology services can make an appointment by calling FSCC.  For more information about the cosmetology program, see the cosmetology school’s Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:  Nothing further came before the coalition.

 

 Adjournment:  The next G

Bourbon County Local News