Ellis Fine Arts Center on the campus of Fort Scott Community College, 2401 S. Horton.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office is hosting a seminar on human trafficking at 6 p.m. on April 19 at Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton. The event is open to the public.
“Does human trafficking only occur in larger cities or small rural areas?
What demographics make up a human trafficking?
“These questions will be answered by attending the seminar,” Bourbon County Sheriff Bill Martin said in an interview.
Bourbon County Sheriff Bill Martin. Submitted photo.
The presentation will by the chairwoman of the Kansas Human Trafficking Advisory Board, Jennifer Montgomery. The board advises the Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt’s office on the issues of human trafficking.
The following is from the attorney generals website:
“Human trafficking is the criminal activity of holding another person for the purposes of exploitation through forced labor and sex trafficking. Many experts view human trafficking as the second greatest criminal enterprise in the world, second only to the illegal sale of drugs. Even here in Kansas, men, women, and children are forced to work for long hours under deplorable conditions for little or no pay without the freedom to leave.
By utilizing a four pronged approach of Prevention, Protection, Prosecution and Partnership, the Kansas Human Trafficking Advisory Board is exploring:
Development of a public awareness campaign focusing on the hidden issue of human trafficking;
Identification of victims of trafficking;
Provision of comprehensive and culturally competent services to victims of human trafficking;
Appropriately addressing the needs of domestic victims of human trafficking;
Securing adequate resources and support needed to develop a task force to effectively investigate cases of human trafficking;
Development of a statewide structure for collaborative efforts across disciplines and jurisdictions to ensure prosecution of human traffickers.”
It was an intense week in the Kansas Legislature, ending on April Fool’s Day. It turned out the joke was on legislators who had worked diligently just to be shut down. Friday around 1:30 am, the House Majority Leader made a motion to adjourn until April 25th at 11 am. – leaving several items to be addressed in Veto Session, including removing state sales tax on food, K-12 funding, and other issues. The Senate President worked diligently to complete our work in regular session and not leave it to do in Veto Session. I applaud his efforts and did what I could to support taxpayers in producing some great tax relief for Kansans.
Tax bills that passed either chamber could be worked in the Tax Conference Committee. It was difficult this year because the House did not debate one tax bill on the House floor. Conference committees are about negotiating to find common ground with the other chamber on bills that have passed both chambers in different forms. It’s difficult to negotiate when the House hasn’t voted on these items. However, the House was willing to accept a majority of Senate positions and we negotiated some tax relief policy for Kansans.
There were three tax Conference Committee Reports (CCRs) negotiated. The first, CCR 2239, had several provisions: a property tax freeze via an income tax rebate for low-income seniors and disabled veterans; up to $250 tax credit for teachers who purchased school supplies with their own money; over $40 million in property tax relief – presently there is a $20,000 exemption on the valuation of the 20 mil of property taxes for K-12, this legislation would increase the exemption to $40,000 and increase it each year based on inflation – it hasn’t been increased since 1997; removing state sales tax on delivery and postage costs; exempting sales tax on fencing materials for agriculture; allowing county commissioners an option to abate property taxes on property destroyed by a natural disaster; creating a tax credit program for donors to technical and community colleges, capped at $5 million a year; making the sales tax exemption on vehicle manufacturer rebates permanent; and many other tax provisions. The House would not accept all of this good tax policy unless a provision to create a taxing authority in Shawnee County for the Zoo, Gage Park, and Discovery Center was included. The Senate accepted the offer since it would be voted on by the people of Shawnee County. We didn’t want to lose all of the good Senate tax positions and good tax policy for Kansans. It passed the Senate unanimously and the House 103 to 10. Hopefully, the Governor will not veto the CCR. If she does, it appears we have the votes to override a veto.
The other two tax CCRs, 2106 and 2597, are still in play and will hopefully be passed in Veto Session. CCR 2106 would remove state sales tax on groceries within three years. Starting January 1, it would decrease from 6.5% to 4%, in 2024 it would drop to 2%, and in 2025 it would go to 0%. Groceries means that prepared foods would not be included. Beginning January 1st would provide time for vendors to implement the sales tax reduction. You may think it is simple to implement, but an example is rotisserie chicken at the grocery store is cooked and ready to eat, so you would think it is prepared food and not exempt. However, according to the Department of Revenue, it would be exempt unless utensils to eat the chicken were provided. It would have been simpler to remove state sales tax from all edible items, but a majority of legislators would not support that effort. Another tax bill negotiated but delayed until veto session was CCR 2597. It had several tax cuts to help Kansans. There are too many to name but a few items included are: gradually removing all state income tax on Social Security and decreasing it on other retirement accounts, increasing standard deductions, and removing state sales tax on commercial electric and other utilities, matching the residential exemption.
As chairman of the Senate Tax Committee, I was able to develop and work with others to pass tax cuts – including property tax relief for homeowners. There is still work to do in lowering income taxes and removing sales tax on food.
It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.
NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR
MEETING OF
FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL
CITY COMMISSION MEETING ROOM
123 SOUTH MAIN STREET
APRIL 5, 2022
6:00 P.M.
Call to Order
Roll Call:
Jones T. Van Hoecke S. Walker M. Wells K. Allen
Flag Salute:
Invocation: Led by: Pastor Brian Rhoades, Grace Baptist Tabernacle
Consent Agenda:
Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of March 15th, 2022, special meetings of March 16th, 2022, and March 28th, 2022.
Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1309-A totaling $539,731.85.
Request to Pay – Agricultural Engineering Associates – $8,092.91 – Lake Lot Surveys
Request to Pay – K & G Striping, Inc. – $4,249.92
Request to Pay – Nuss & Farmer, P.A. – February Invoice – $1,470.00
Request to Pay #1 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Hammon’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $57,329.08
Request to Pay #1 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Sharky’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $32,967.12
Request to Pay #2 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Hammon’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $91,651.71
Request to Pay #2 – Mid-Continental Restoration Co., Inc. (Sharky’s) – Urgent Need Grant – $72,143.77
Request to Pay – Southeast Kansas Regional Planning Commission – Administration Services – Urgent Need Grant – $5,000.00
Public Comment:
(Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at Commission discretion)
Old Business: None
Appearances:
Shaun O’Brien – Requests for closure of streets for Good Ol’ Days event:
Old Fort Blvd. from Wall Street to National Avenue
Main Street from Skubitz Plaza to Third Street – Close Friday at 1 p.m.
Wall Street from National to Scott
First Street from National to Scott Street
Second Street from National to Scott Street
Use of Memorial Hall:
Baby Contest on Saturday morning
Blane Howard Concert – Saturday night (Possible Friday night concert also)
Heritage Park at corner of First and Main
Parking lot behind Heritage Park
Parking lot at corner of Third and Main
Parking lot at Second and Scott
Parking lot at Wall and Scott
Parking lot at Wall and alley between Main and Scott
Parking lot between Memorial Hall and the Library
Parking lot between National and Block House (Carnival will begin setting up here on Tuesday, June 2nd)
Parking lot between Old Fort Blvd. and H & H Realty Agency (Carnival will begin setting up here on Friday morning)
Old Fort Blvd – South side from National to alley (Carnival will begin setting up here on Friday morning)
Skubitz Plaza – (No special set up for event this year, but need Old Fort Blvd closed when tents go up Wednesday on east bound from Main. All closed Thursday and Friday.
The Street Advisory Board will meet on Thursday, April 14, at 4:00 p.m. at the City Commission Meeting Room at 123 S. Main Street. This meeting is open to the public.
This meeting will be made available via the City’s you tube channel at City of Fort Scott.
Department of Defense Hypersonics Director
On Friday, I was pleased to welcome the U.S. Department of Defense’s Principal Director for Hypersonics Michael White to Wichita. During his visit, we toured Spirit AeroSystems and the National Defense Prototype Center, which showcased Wichita’s unique aerospace capabilities as the Air Capital of the World.
Director White also received an update on implementation of a $33 million contract awarded in 2019 to the National Institute for Aviation Research focused on advanced materials development for high-speed missile applications at the U.S. Army Combat Capabilities Development Command Aviation and Missile Center. As a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, I will continue to support investments and partnerships like these—especially given the value that hypersonics will play in the future of our military. Thank you to Mr. White for graciously accepting my invitation and special thanks to Spirit CEO Tom Gentile and his team for hosting this important visit.
U.S. Air Force Secretary
On Sunday, I hosted U.S. Air Force Secretary Frank Kendall at McConnell Air Force Base to showcase McConnell’s capabilities and to highlight Kansas’ strong aerospace innovation.
We visited the operations floor of the 184th Air Wing, where Secretary Kendall and I met airmen of the Information, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Group, an elite team of data analysts that conduct a broad spectrum of missions worldwide. We met members of the 184th Cyber Operations Group and received a classified briefing from them about the threats facing our nation. We were briefed by airmen of the 177th Information Aggressor Squadron, one of twelve cyber red teams in the country to discuss our adversaries’ cyber tactics as they test the cybersecurity of Department of Defense’s computer and communication systems. The 177th briefed us on current cyber vulnerabilities, how cybersecurity and training could be improved across the Air Force and how we in Congress can continue to support their mission. Secretary Kendall participated in a flight in the KC-46 Pegasus, a military aerial refueling aircraft, to witness a refueling mission. I have worked closely with the Air Force and U.S. Department of Defense officials to remediate issues with the KC-46, and I remain encouraged by the progress being made.
Thank you to TSgt Thurston, MSgt Presley, and SSgt Jonathan Brooks for their briefing on the capabilities of their operation center and simulator. And thank you to all in the 184th Air Wing for taking the time to organize our visit and provide valuable feedback. This visit provided the opportunity for Secretary Kendall to learn more about McConnell’s efforts to preserve our freedom, and I was pleased to show Secretary Kendall the work our airmen in Kansas do to protect our nation and the unique capabilities McConnell Air Force Base provides for our nation’s defense. It remains as important to me as ever that our warfighters receive the tools, resources and weapons systems they need to defend our country.
President Biden’s Energy Policies are Anti-Domestic
Since the day he took office, President Biden has weakened U.S. energy independence with proposals, policies and nominees that blame the fossil fuel industry for his administration’s missteps and out-of-touch aspirations, further harming an industry we need now more than ever.
President Biden this week announced he will release up to 180 million barrels of oil from our country’s reserve. Releasing oil from the Strategic Petroleum Reserve is not a long-term solution to achieving energy independence and may create great problems down the road. President Biden must embrace an all-of-the-above strategy to increase energy production where our domestic oil and gas producers play a role.
Questioning VA Secretary and VSOs on Toxic Exposures
On Tuesday, the Senate Veterans’ Affairs Committee held a hearing to review and discuss needed fixes to the House-passed Honoring Our Promise to Address Comprehensive Toxic Act, or PACT Act. In the past two years, numerous veterans service organizations (VSOs) have testified before Congress emphasizing the importance of fixing the process VA uses to provide health care and benefits to toxic-exposed veterans.
As the lead Republican on the Senate VA Committee, I am working closely with Chairman Tester to create a fair, transparent and responsive process for toxic-exposed veterans, beginning with the Health Care for Burn Pit Veterans Act which unanimously passed out of the Senate. The House chose not to take up that important legislation and sent us the bill that we reviewed at this hearing, the PACT Act. It is clear to me that legislation is needed to make certain that VA can meet the needs of veterans and provide more toxic-exposed veterans with needed care and benefits. It is important that we get this legislation right, and I will continue to work with my colleagues as we work to send this legislation to the President’s desk.
During this hearing, we also questioned Secretary McDonough on lessons learned from the VA’s pilot model on presumptive decision-making that the department concluded on April 1. This pilot, developed last year to evaluate and establish presumptions of service-connection, has already resulted in the announcement and implementation of 12 presumptions for respiratory ailments and rare cancers. This hearing was a needed step in moving forward in crafting a responsive and enduring system that works for veterans—both today’s and tomorrow’s. I look forward to continuing to work with my colleagues in the Senate, the House and VA toward that end.
Efforts to Aid Ukraine
It has been more than one month since Vladimir Putin’s unjust war on Ukraine began. This week, I joined my Senate colleagues in requesting answers from President Biden’s National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan on the speed, specifics and supply of lethal aid provided to Ukraine.
We must provide Ukraine with the tools not just to fight back, but to win. Read the full letter here.
Statement on President Biden’s FY2023 Proposed Budget
At a time when Kansans are concerned with record levels of inflation, an unsecure southern border threatening our national security and soaring energy prices, the Biden administration has put forth a budget proposal rife with new spending, inadequate support for our Armed Forces and tax hikes on fossil fuel producers that will discourage domestic production. Fortunately for Kansans, the President’s misconceived budget request is simply a recommendation, and the responsibility to allocate federals funds falls to Congress. Through my role on the Appropriations Committee, I will work with my colleagues on both sides of the aisle to rein in spending and government growth, prioritize our national defense and increase our energy and economic security.
Demanding A Review of the FBI’s Mishandling of Larry Nassar’s Abuse
Last July, the Department of Justice (DOJ) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) released a report that revealed the manner in which the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) mishandled its investigation into former USA Gymnastics physician Larry Nassar.
While the DOJ is reviewing its earlier decision to not criminally charge the FBI agents who knew of Nassar’s abuse, did nothing, and then lied about their inaction in violation of their sworn duty and the law, the department’s response to the OIG report cannot end there.
This week, Senator Blumenthal and I, authors of the Empowering Olympic, Paralympic, and Amateur Athletes Act, urged the DOJ to conduct a comprehensive review of all information in its possession to determine whether any additional investigations should be opened or widened, and if other individuals and institutions who enabled the cover up of this egregious abuse, should be charged and held accountable. Read the full letter here.
Hosting the Turkish Ambassador for a Meeting
I met with Turkey’s ambassador to the United States, Murat Mercan, on Wednesday to discuss Russia’s war against Ukraine and how it is impacting Turkey, a NATO ally. Turkey imports nearly all of its oil and gas, and 85 percent of its wheat comes from Russia and Ukraine. We explored how American energy producers and farmers could help ease the pressures Turkey is experiencing. Ambassador Mercan and I discussed Turkey’s relationship with Russia and other countries in the Middle East, including the effects of a return to the Iran nuclear agreement known as the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action. I appreciated the insights Ambassador Mercan provided on a turbulent but important part of the world.
Questioning Defense Health Agency Regarding Servicemember Mental Health
On Tuesday, I attended the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense hearing regarding the Defense Health Agency (DHA). The Defense Health Agency is a joint, integrated Combat Support Agency that enables the Army, Navy and Air Force medical services to provide a medically ready force to Combatant Commands in both peacetime and wartime.
My questions focused on improving access to mental health services for servicemembers as the Department of Defense has failed to properly and sufficiently screen transitioning servicemembers at risk for suicide. A November 2021 Inspector General report was released, evaluating this screening process and suggested that this significant of an issue will not be solved until October 2023. This is unacceptable as thousands of current and future servicemembers transitioning from active duty are at-risk of falling through the cracks and not receiving the mental health care they need and deserve. I look forward to identifying what changes can be made – either at the administrative or legislative level – so our servicemembers are cared for properly.
Additionally, I asked Lt. Gen. Scott Dingle, Surgeon General of the Army, about the importance of NICoE facilities in Kansas. NICoE – National Intrepid Centers of Excellence – are sites on military bases dedicated to treating servicemembers with effects of traumatic brain injury, behavioral health issues and other conditions with a broad range of innovative and emerging treatments and therapies. I will continue to advocate to Defense Health Agency leaders that Kansas can and should have a NICoE facility for our military community back home.
I appreciated the testimony from Lt. Gen. Dingle, Dr. Smith, Lt. Gen. Place, Lt. Gen. Miller, and Rear Adm. Gillingham, and their service to our country and nation’s servicemembers.
Discussing Kansas Water Priorities with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
On Tuesday, I also met with representatives of the Kansas City District of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, including District Commander Col. Travis Rayfield. We discussed the needs of the Lower Missouri River Basin and Tuttle Creek Reservoir, which suffered from significant flooding in 2019. I secured funding in the FY2022 Energy and Water Development Appropriations Act for a water injection dredging demonstration project that will hopefully resolve the sedimentation problem at this reservoir, allowing it to hold more water. I look forward to continuing to work with Col. Rayfield and Kansas City District on water issues impacting Kansans.
Meeting with City Leaders
Leavenworth
I met with Leavenworth Mayor Camalla Leonhard and City Manager Paul Kramer this week to discuss issues facing their community. As Ranking Member of the VA Committee, I was pleased to receive an update on the important services the Leavenworth Veterans Affairs Medical Center provides to veterans living in their community and the surrounding area. We also discussed future plans for the Leavenworth Penitentiary, as well as the need for investments in the Centennial Bridge. I appreciate Mayor Leonhard and City Manager Kramer for stopping by my office and look forward to working with them in the future.
Arkansas City
I also met with representatives of the City of Arkansas City to discuss the infrastructure needs of the City. City Manager Randy Frazer and City Commissioner Charles Jennings spoke about the issues impacting the city, including a need for quality housing, the Heartland Flyer extension project and how the recently-passed Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act can serve their community. We also discussed how federal water infrastructure and water maintenance programs could benefit the city. I appreciated the opportunity to speak with Randy and Charles and look forward to continuing to work together on the needs of Arkansas City.
Hispanic Chamber
It was also great to meet with the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City to discuss issues impacting Hispanic-owned businesses and the Hispanic community, including the remaining impact of COVID-19, immigration policies, and legislation that may disrupt some Hispanic-owned businesses. The Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City was founded in 1977 to represent the interests of Hispanic-owned businesses, and the organization has been a pillar of the Kansas City community since. I appreciated the opportunity to speak with the leadership and members of the chamber, and we will continue to work together to solve the challenges facing the Hispanic community in Kansas City.
Meeting with National Association of Postal Supervisors
This week, I spoke with Kelly McCartney, the National Association of Postal Supervisors (NAPS) MINK Area Vice President and Immediate Past NAPS Kansas State President. With the recent passage of bipartisan postal reform legislation, we spoke about the new opportunities postal employees and the U.S. Postal Service leadership has to stabilize the Postal Service. I was a cosponsor of the Senate version of H.R. 3076, the Postal Service Reform Act, which passed Congress last month. Throughout my time representing Kansans in Washington, D.C., I have advocated for preserving and reforming the Postal Service as well fighting against the closure of post offices in rural Kansas. It appreciated hearing more from Kelly about her service as a postal employee and to hear the daily impact her work and our postal reform legislation will have across the state of Kansas.
Update on NASA’s Artemis Lunar Landers from Blue Origin
This week I had the pleasure of meeting with Blue Origin and a handful of their Kansas suppliers. Last summer, I hosted Bob Smith, Blue Origin’s CEO, to Wichita to see our capabilities and workforce firsthand. Representatives from Harlow Aerostructures, Accurus Aerospace and Orizon Aerostructures joined the conversation to discuss the work they are doing as a result from Mr. Smith’s visit last year. I enjoyed getting a chance to discuss our suppliers work in helping Blue Origin accomplish their goals and appreciate Blue Origin’s continued partnership.
Discussing Priorities with Blinded Veterans Association Leaders
I met with the Blinded Veterans Association this week to listen to their concerns regarding access to care at the VA. Veterans suffering from any sort of vision impairment deserve quality care from our VA facilities, and I will continue to work to deliver results so blinded veterans receive the treatment they require at VA clinics.
Meeting with Kansans
KU Law Students
I was pleased to speak with a group of students from the University of Kansas School of Law this week in my Washington office. These KU Law Students are wrapping up their final year of law school with internships in our nation’s capital. As a proud KU Law alumnus, I enjoyed hearing about the students’ experiences both in Lawrence and Washington, as well as their aspirations for the future.
National Federation of Republican Women
I appreciate my conversation with the National Federation of Republican Women on Thursday, including Linda and Brenda Smith of Salina. We discussed my recent trip to Eastern Europe and how we must provide Ukraine with not just the tools to survive, but to win. We also touched on government spending and the need to have federal employees return to work, including at the Eisenhower Presidential Library and Museum. Thank you to these women for taking time out of their day to catch up with me.
Announcing Federal Investments in Cowley College
On Friday, I was in Arkansas City to tour Cowley College. While visiting with staff and students in the Renn Memorial Library, I announced that the college will be awarded funding to be used for the purpose of developing a new Academic Success Center. I am of the firm belief that we change the world one soul at a time—one student at a time—and I am pleased to have secured the resources for this new Academic Success Center which will work to proactively identify at-risk students early in the semester, and partner these students with near-peer tutors with the goal of helping each achieve their full academic potential.
One of those peer students I visited with, Katie, shared about how she is learning and growing as she mentors and helps her classmates achieve success in their classes. Students like her will be a crucial part to the new center, and it was inspiring to see Katie doing her part to change the world one person at a time.
My gratitude goes out to Cowley College President, Dr. Dennis Rittle, and Vice President of Academic Affairs, Dr. Michelle Schoon, for inviting me to visit with the college, staff and students.
National Vietnam War Veterans Day
On National Vietnam War Veterans Day, we honor the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice and thank those veterans who did not receive a proper welcome home following their service. On Tuesday, I visited the Vietnam Wall on our National Mall to pay tribute to our Vietnam veterans at the memorial built in their honor. To those with us now and to those who have left us, thank you.
Thanking President Scott of Pittsburg State
I am of the view that we change the world one soul, one student, one person at a time. Education is one of the most impactful ways we can do that, and I appreciate President Scott’s dedication to serving Pittsburg State students and the community at large over the past 30 years.
Visiting with President Linton of K-State
Walked K-State campus on Saturday morning with President Linton in Manhattan for some cardio and conversation.
Honored to Serve You in Washington It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Fort Scott Kan. – Fort Scott National Historic Site is hosting its 39th Annual Civil War Encampment, April 23 and 24, 2022. Join us for cooking on the open fire, experience artillery and infantry troops preparing for battle, smell bread baking, participate in discussions about troop and refugee support, step back in times while playing period games, and try writing with quills and ink! This event is a well-loved tradition that is back and better than ever!
Acting superintendent Carl Brenner welcomes the community to the Fort to experience life as it really was. “We are grateful to have the generous support and participation from the Holms Brigade, Wichita Boy Scout Troop 704, Friends of Fort Scott, Inc., and plenty of new and old Fort Scott National Historic Site volunteers alike,” said Acting Superintendent Carl Brenner. “We encourage everyone to step back in time and smell, hear, see, and experience life at the fort.”
Park volunteers and staff will be leading a variety of programs. Both days will consist of several artillery and infantry demonstrations and tours of the fort. Saturday: join the discussion around the importance of the Lunette Blair Block House (adjacent to the park on Skubitz Plaza), find out about the lives of women during the Civil War period with the Ladies Union Aid, a cooking demonstration outside our mess hall and baking bread in the bakery. Sunday: begin the day aa authentic 1840s church service, play authentic lawn games, and participate in a discussion about being a Civil War refugee. The day is full of fun and games for the whole family straight from the 1800’s!
Encampment Schedule:
SATURDAY, APRIL 23
Interpreters will be at the firing range with historic weapons, and in the bakehouse doing demonstrations throughout the day
9 a.m. Raising the Colors with the Boy Scout troop 704 of Wichita, KS
10 a.m. Artillery Drill and Weapons Demonstration
10-11 a.m. Calvary Discussion
10-11 a.m. Guided Tour of the Fort
11-12 p.m. 19th Century Writing
11 a.m. Infantry Drill and Weapons Demonstration
11:30-1:30 p.m. Cooking Demonstration
Noon Artillery Drill and Weapons Demonstration
12:30 p.m. Infantry Drill and Weapons Demonstration
1 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fort
1:30-2 p.m. Lunette Blair Block House Program
2 p.m. Artillery Drill and Weapons Demonstration
2:30-3:30 p.m. Ladies Union Aid Demonstrations and Dialogue
3 p.m. Infantry Drill and Weapons Demonstration
4 p.m. Flag Retreat with Troop 704
SUNDAY, APRIL 24
Interpreters will be at the firing range with historic weapons throughout the day
9 a.m. Raising the Colors
10 a.m. Historic Church Service
11 a.m. Infantry Dress Parade, Drill, and Weapons Demonstration
11-2 p.m. Historic Lawn games
11:30-12:30 p.m. Cavalry Discussion
Noon Artillery Drill and Weapons Demonstration
1 p.m. Guided Tour of the Fort
2-2:30 p.m. Life as a Refugee Dialogue
2:30 p.m. Infantry Drill and Weapons Demonstration
3 p.m. Lunette Blair Block House Program
3:30 p.m. Artillery Drill and Weapons Demonstration
You are always welcome to wear a mask, and please remember to keep safe distances, wash your hands, and have fun!
From April 1-October 31, Fort Scott National Historic Site, a unit of the National Park Service, will be open for its summer hours of operation. The site exhibit areas and visitor center are open daily from 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. Park grounds are open daily from a half hour before sunrise until a half hour after sunset. To find out more or become involved in activities at the Fort, please contact the park at 620-223-0310 or visit our website at www.nps.gov/fosc.
Submitted by Rebecca Johnson BSN, RN; SEK Multi-County Health Department Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer
Prevent-Promote-Protect
Who are we?
We are the SEK Multi-County Health Department.
1971, the Bi-County Health Department was started with Anderson County and Linn County. Kansas Department of Health and Environment worked with these two counties because of their low immunization rates. Several years later, Allen, Bourbon, and Woodson Counties joined to form the Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Department. In 2006, Linn County left the SEKMCHD leaving the four counties – Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, and Woodson.
Who are our staff?
Allen County: Megan Neville, RN-Public Health Nurse; Traci Ridge-Accountant; Susan Belt, MT(ASCP)- Reg. PHEP Coordinator/Planning & Outreach Coordinator; Vicki Howard-Home Visitor; Ruby Gulick-Administrative Assistant; Deidre Wilson, RN-WIC Coordinator/Public Health Nurse; Dr. Rebecca Watson-Medical Director; Cara Walden, RN-Public Health Nurse; Cynthia Frisbie, RD, LD-Dietician
Anderson County: Samantha Mason BS, RN-Public Health Nurse; Mika Mader-Administrative Assistant
Bourbon County: Hannah Geneva, RN-Public Health Nurse; Kendell Mason-Administrative Assistant; Holly Fritter-Home Visitor; Linda Lawrence-Special Projects Assistant; Rebecca Johnson, BSN, RN-Administrator/SEK Local Health Officer
Public health is the science of protecting and improving the health of people and their communities. This work is achieved by promoting healthy lifestyles, researching disease and injury prevention, and detecting, preventing and responding to infectious diseases. Overall, public health is concerned with protecting the health of entire populations. These populations can be as small as a local neighborhood, or as big as an entire country or region of the world. (CDCfoundation.org)
Why is Public Health important?
Public health professionals try to prevent problems from happening or recurring through implementing educational programs, recommending policies, administering services and conducting research—in contrast to clinical professionals like doctors and nurses, who focus primarily on treating individuals after they become sick or injured. Public health also works to limit health disparities. A large part of public health is promoting health care equity, quality and accessibility. (CDCfoundation.org)
The 10 Essential Public Health Services:
The strength of a public health system rests on its capacity to effectively deliver the 10 Essential Public Health Services:
Assess and monitor population health.
Investigate, diagnose and address health hazards and root causes.
Communicate effectively to inform and educate.
Strengthen, support and mobilize communities and partnerships.
Create, champion and implement policies, plans and laws.
Utilize legal and regulatory actions.
Enable equitable access.
Build a diverse and skilled workforce.
Improve and innovate through evaluation, research and quality improvement.
Build and maintain a strong organizational infrastructure for public health.
The 10 Essential Public Health Services provide a framework for public health to protect and promote the health of all people in all communities.
To achieve optimal health for all, the Essential Public Health Services actively promote policies, systems and services that enable good health and seek to remove obstacles and systemic and structural barriers — such as poverty, racism, gender discrimination, and other forms of oppression — that have resulted in health inequalities.
Everyone should have a fair and just opportunity to achieve good health and well-being.
Other services we provide to our community:
Family Planning:
Breast Exam, Pap, Lab Work, STD testing, Blood pressure screening, hemoglobin, blood sugar, nutrition counseling & birth control if desired.
Immunizations:
Infants, Children, & Adults
KanBe Healthy Screening:
For Kancare eligible children up to 18 years of age. Full physical, hearing & vision screenings, and lab work.
Healthy Start Home Visitor:
Provides home visits to pregnant mothers and parents of newborns. Provides parents with resources and referrals for various assistance programs they are eligible for. Breastfeeding education provided.
Adult Physicals:
Basic adult physical provided by registered nurse for employment purposes. Physicals also provided for State of Kansas foster care or adoptions.
Childhood Physicals:
Physicals for public schools, daycares, Headstart or preschool. Full physical, hearing & vision screens, lab work. No Athletic Physicals.
Blood Pressure & Glucose Checks:
We will monitor blood pressure/blood glucose and keep a record for you.
Pregnancy Tests:
Provided for $15.00. Referrals to DCF, WIC, HSHV, and family doctor are provided.
WIC:
Women, Infant, & Children – State Program to help promote the healthy development of children. Call for more information.
STD Testing & Treatment:
We will test for and treat gonorrhea, chlamydia, and syphilis.
Lab/Blood Draws:
Cholesterol, diabetes, drug screens, pregnancy, CBC, Thyroid, prostate. For a full list and pricing please call.
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) is offering a grant-writing workshop to Southeast Kansas area nonprofits! Mark your calendars for Tuesday, April 19 from 9:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Foundry meeting room located within Block 22, 402 N. Broadway, Pittsburg, KS.
Monica Murnan, director of Community Support Services as CCS, will share information on organizational readiness, proposal development, needs assessments, budgeting, and managing funded projects. Murnan has a 25-year history of successful grant writing and management in the areas of community-based services, health-care access, collaborative early-childhood projects, and education-based programs for kids and families.
In addition, CFSEK will share some information specific to Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas grantmaking.
Plan to attend to learn some “must do” and “please don’t” strategies along with some organizational tips for gaining funds for your important work! We hope you can join us for this opportunity to strengthen your grant-writing skills.
There will be many new faces in school districts in Bourbon County for the upcoming school year.
St. Mary’s Catholic School
For St. Mary’s Catholic Elementary School there are no resignations, according to Principal Josh Regan.
USD 234 Board of Education Building, 424 S. Main
USD 234 has received 10 resignations thus far.
Connie Billionis, U234 Board Clerk sent the following:
From Fort Scott High School:
Math Teacher – William Hall
Math Teacher – Jeff Armstrong
Social Science Teacher – Tami Campbell and the district has hired Jonathon Barnes to fill the position.
English Teacher – Jennifer Hartman
From Fort Scott Middle School:
Science Teacher – Kelly Toll
Special Education Teacher – Shelly Sanborn
From Eugene Ware Elementary School:
5th Grade Teacher – Mary Mauer
Music Teacher – Mary Jo Harper
5th Grade Teacher – Kristin Duffy
3rd Grade Teacher – Carrie Southwell
“We have hired an elementary Instructional Coach, Suzan Durnell,” Billionis said . “This position was vacant this year.”
Uniontown High School.
USD 235 2021–22 Resignations and New Hires for 2022–23
Three administrative positions will have new people in the Uniontown School District, U235, according to the school superintendent. In addition there will be five teachers for current vacancies and two more added because of COVID-19 funding.
Bret Howard resigned asSuperintendent and will be replaced by Vance Eden, who is currently the elementary school principal.
Eden, West Bourbon Elementary Principal, resigned and will be replaced by Tema Gilion.
Jim Lambert, UJH/HS Principal, resigned and will be replaced byDalaina Smith
Five teachers have resigned in this school district.
Neva Rowland, Uniontown High School Band and Choir teacher will be replaced byMorgan Egidy.
Johnathan Stark, Uniontown Junior High and UHS Physical Education Teacher will be replaced byZach Mason. Mason will also be the new head high school football coach.
Andrew Ables, UHS Science, resigned and the district is taking applications.
Mike Durnell, UJH/UHS Math, resigned and the district istaking applications.
Linda Rogers resigned from first/second grade and the ESSER 2 Funded position will not be refilled.
There are two newly created teaching positions, funded by ESSER Funds.
Krista Harding District Extension Agent, Horticulture Southwind Extension District 111 S. Butler Erie, KS 66733 Office: 620-244-3826 Cell: 620-496-8786
The Southwind Extension District had a great program recently on landscaping to attract hummingbirds. The program speaker, Chuck Otte, gave the attendees information on the hummingbird season, nesting habits, food sources and feeder tips. I will highlight some of his information in hopes that it will help you be more successful in attracting hummingbirds to your landscape.
Although there are approximately 360 species of hummingbirds between North and South America, 99.99% of all hummingbirds found in our area will be the Ruby-throated. Their furious spring migration starts in April and continues until early May. Once the migration is complete, hummingbirds settle into nesting mode.
Nests are built in June, with the female determining the site location. The Ruby-throated hummingbird nests will be built near the tip of a down-sloping tree branch with a fairly open area below and the canopy above. Popular tree species for nest building include oak, yellow birch, pine and hackberry. Hummingbirds generally prefer deciduous tree species over conifers. The nesting site will be determined based upon availability of nectar sources and insects. The nests are small – no larger than the size of a quarter!
When it comes to food sources, hummingbirds are attracted to the color red. It is like a flashing neon on sign to them. To prove this point, try putting on a red cap or shirt and sit quietly near a feeder. The hummingbirds will definitely check you out! However, hummingbirds do feed on more than just red flowers.
Any flowering plant that has a trumpet-style flower and is in the red/orange sector of the color spectrum will be quite attractive to hummingbirds. In his presentation, Chuck highlighted several plants to include in your landscape to bring in the most birds. The list included: traditional red Salvia, Agastache, Scarlet runner bean, Cardinal flower, Beebalm, Trumpet Creeper (only if you have lots of space), Butterfly Bush, Hollyhock, Rose of Sharon, Cardinal Climber and Canna.
As for feeders, mark the date of April 10th on your calendar. Chuck stated that in southeastern Kansas, our feeders need to be up and open for business by then. He had several good tips for feeder management:
You CAN’T have too many feeders!
Don’t fill feeders completely full – clean at each filling
If hummingbirds are not emptying feeder – change nectar and clean every 2-3 days
Do not dye the water red – just a small amount of red on the feeder is all you need
Artificial nectar – 4 parts water, 1 part sugar
One eight ounce feeder will fulfill the daily energy needs of 40 to 60 hummingbirds. By having more feeders available, this will allow the hummingbirds to feed more easily with less stress. Also, it will decrease the likelihood of territorial fighting. If you’ve fed hummingbirds in the past, then I’m sure you know all about the one that seems to be the gatekeeper at the feeder!
In casual conversations, you might hear someone say that they have no hummingbirds over the summer, while others seem to be overrun with hummers. This could be due to “neighborhood feeder saturation.” Basically, this is when the number of feeders within a geographic area exceeds the biological needs of the hummingbirds present which spreads the birds out. Populations of birds can be cyclical – you can have hummers for several summers and then those birds go elsewhere or don’t survive the winter. However, in a year or two, the population will probably cycle back around.
If you have no hummingbird activity by late May or early June, you may just want to take the feeders down until early August. The south bound migration usually starts in late July or early August. Many bird watchers indicate that August and September are actually their best months.
Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Horticulture agent assigned to Southwind District. She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826
K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
