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Newsletter From U.S. Senator Jerry Moran
FORT SCOTT MEN’S BASKETBALL WINS THREE STRAIGHT GAMES
ADVANCES WITH MOMENTUM
Fort Scott, KS – Fort Scott Community College closed a pivotal week with three consecutive victories, capped by a 65–62 win over Allen County on Saturday, continuing a late-season surge that has the Greyhounds playing their best basketball of the year.
Fort Scott opened the week with a 76–63 home win over Kansas City Kansas Community College. Hollis led the way with 16 points and seven assists, while Hastings added 22 points, including four three-pointers. The Greyhounds shot 48 percent from the field and 50 percent from beyond the arc. Fort Scott controlled both halves, leading 38–31 at halftime and maintaining its advantage throughout. Miles McMonigle contributed 11 points off the bench.
Head Coach Matt Glover praised the team’s effort and unity throughout the run.
“Our guys came to play; they’ve come together and done this all year. We’re built different!” Glover said.
On March 6, Fort Scott handed Johnson County a rare defeat, pulling away in the second half for a 73–61 upset. Hastings delivered another standout performance with 26 points and five three-pointers. Jadyn Hollis added 14 points, and Noah Porter scored 13 on efficient 5-of-7 shooting. The Greyhounds overcame a 34–32 halftime deficit by outscoring the Cavaliers 41–27 after the break. Defensively, Fort Scott limited Johnson County to just 1-of-21 shooting from three-point range.
Assistant Coach Caleb Ligon said the team’s chemistry and resilience have been key to the recent success.
“The guys played a phenomenal game; this is a testament to them. We’ve been through the heart of it, through ups and downs, and they’ve stayed together. The chemistry is probably the best I’ve ever been around, we’re just fighting for another chance to play together,” Ligon said.
The Greyhounds completed the three-game stretch on March 7 with a hard-fought 65–62 victory over Allen County. Makaen Hastings once again led the way with 23 points, knocking down three three-pointers and going a perfect 2-for-2 at the line. Fort Scott built a 31–22 halftime lead and held off a late push from Allen County to secure the win. J’Twane Mike added seven points and dominated the glass with 13 rebounds, while Miles McMonigle chipped in nine points off the bench. Fort Scott finished the game 23-of-57 from the field.
Assistant Coach Dominick Budy said the team’s response to adversity during the season helped prepare them for this moment.
“This game showed a lot about our team. We faced adversity through the middle of conference, but our guys battled and showed what they’re about,” Budy said.
Fort Scott, now 18–14, has produced one of its strongest stretches of the season, highlighted by balanced scoring, improved three-point shooting, and consistent defensive pressure. Hastings averaged more than 23 points across the three wins, while Hollis directed the offense with 16 total assists during the stretch.
Sophomore guard Jaylen Calloway reflected on the journey the team has taken this season and the opportunity that still lies ahead.
“I want to speak on the whole season. We had a lot of rainy days, but our thing as a team is to not let the rainy days turn into floods. God believed in us and we earned another day to compete. We plan to keep proving why we deserve to be here. Go Hounds!” Calloway said.
With the three-game winning streak, the Greyhounds advance further into the Region VI postseason and will await their next tournament opponent.
Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson
March 6, 2026
Budget Overspending continues. As with any budget, there seems to always be good, bad, and just downright ugly. This budget wasn’t as bad as we have seen in the past, but it still spends more than is projected to be collected in taxes. The legislature must pass a budget, and doing so responsibly means confronting an uncomfortable truth: there is a pattern of spending increases that outpaced taxes to be collected, especially in discretionary programs that lack clear performance metrics. Some of this spending is a result of the billions of federal COVID dollars that we were assured were one time spends and would not burden Kansas taxpayers. The budget passed the Senate 21 to 19. I voted no on this government growth. The Senate and House budget committee leaders will now meet to work out differences for a final budget.
Welfare benefits were established to help those in need. The fraud and abuse of these programs is occurring at a staggering rate. Just look at Minnesota, where billions of dollars were fraudulently stolen. Kansas is acting to stop fraud and abuse by strengthening the eligibility rules and work requirements of programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, TANF and other programs. Another provision in SB 363 makes it so people who are permanently disabled would only have to file once, not annually as they do now. Kansans support safety net programs to be preserved for those who truly need them, and SB 363 does that. It passed the Senate 25 to 13. I voted yes.
An Emergency Declaration for the wildfires in south central and southwestern Kansas. There were some counties in the 12th Senate district also included in HCR 5033, allowing for exemptions on weight limits and other such restrictions to transport hay and items needed because of the fires. It passed the Senate unanimously.
Elections would be more secure by verifying signatures of mail-in ballots. While it may seem obvious that such a safeguard should already be standard practice, legislation is needed to codify it. SB 394 would also allow another individual to sign a voter’s ballot envelope when the voter is unable to sign personally. It passed 26 to 11. I voted yes.
Electronic devices would be prohibited in Kansas schools by requiring each district to adopt a policy that removes cell phones, tablets, smart watches, and other personal communication devices from classroom use. Senate Substitute for HB 2299 would also require district policies governing social‑media platforms. Limited exceptions would be permitted. For example, when a student needs a device to remind them to take medication or when a school‑issued device is required for instructional purposes. Research consistently shows that reading on paper yields better comprehension and retention than reading on most electronic devices. The legislation was drafted to avoid excessive bureaucracy while delivering safety benefits by restricting non‑educational electronic devices use at school. Parents, school administrators, and other stakeholders can help refine the policy at the local level. It passed 32 to 4. I voted yes.
Federal Law Enforcement and their vehicles would be treated as Kansas law‑enforcement officers if SB 452 becomes law. The bill also creates a new misdemeanor that prohibits anyone from approaching within 25 feet of a police officer, EMT, or firefighter after being given a visual or audible signal to stay back. Proponents say the measure closes gaps between state and federal policing authority, while critics argue it could impinge on civil liberties because it criminalizes proximity to officers who are performing their duties. Although individuals may still be present in the vicinity and may record the activity, they must remain at least 25 feet away once an officer signals them to do so. The bill passed 31 to 7. I voted yes.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
Caryn
From the Bleachers – 754 by Dr. Jack Welch
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.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports March 9
Embarrassingly Honest by Carolyn Tucker
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.
First Farmers Market Vendors Meeting of the Season In April 7
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
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Fort Scott Farmers’ Market
The Gathering Square Pavilion
111 N National Ave
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Chick Days are Coming! by Hunter Nickell
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].
March 9, 2026 Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda Summary
Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda
March 9, 2026 | 5:30 PM
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I. Call Meeting To Order
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II. Pledge Of Allegiance
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III. Prayer
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IV. Approval Of Agenda
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V. Approval Of Minutes (03.02.26)
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VI. Approval Of Accounts Payable ($437,772.71)
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VII. Public Comments
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VIII. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Kenny Allen
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IX. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) – Gregg Motley
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X. Department Updates
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a. Sewer – Matt Quick
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b. NRP – Matt Quick
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c. Appraisal Update – Matt Quick
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d. County Clerk Updates
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XI. Old Business
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a. Salary Resolution – Beerbower
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b. Forensic Audit – Greg Motley
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XII. New Business
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a. Resolution 51-25, 06-22, 48-25 Discussion – Joe Allen
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XIII. Future Agenda Topics
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XIV. Commissioner Comments
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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:
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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)
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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
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Producers Coop: A culvert permit for Producers Coop was unanimously approved. (Page 5)
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LKM Membership: The commission voted to continue its $1,108 membership with the League of Kansas Municipalities for training and legislative resources. (Page 5)
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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)
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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:
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General Fund: Payroll clearing and insurance premiums. (Page 7)
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Appraisers: Residential cost handbook subscriptions and wages. (Pages 7-8)
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Landfill: Significant payments to Allen County Public Works for MSW ($8,057.00) and various equipment repairs. (Page 10)
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Sheriff/Correctional: Includes $13,513.50 for food services and $6,040.48 for fuel. (Pages 10-11)
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Road & Bridge: Numerous entries for vehicle maintenance parts (O’Reilly, Amazon) and diagnostic tests. (Pages 12-13)
Obituary of Richard Lee Cook
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
Newsletter of U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt
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FSCC Adult Education Program Offers Year-Round Opportunities and Comprehensive Support
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].