Community Foundation by Gregg Motley

Community Foundation

 

Bourbon County is fortunate to have one of only three community foundations in Southeast Kansas; the other two are in Crawford County.  In 2007, a number of citizens of our county had the foresight to establish The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation (“FSACF”) in order to encourage long-term investments in our area.  Since then, the organization has donated hundreds of thousands of dollars to schools, governments and charities all across Bourbon County, thanks to the vision of a number of donors.

 

What is a community foundation?  The purpose is to create legacy investments in a city, county or region by accumulating donations, investing those dollars, and awarding grants based on the return on the investments.  While donations of all sizes are accepted and appreciated, the FSACF also provides a path for individuals who have accumulated assets over a lifetime of hard work to make a planned gift that will benefit the community they love long after they are gone.

 

You might ask, “Why accumulate these dollars; why not donate the money as it comes in?”  The answer is ongoing growth and building a legacy that continues well into the future.  Some donors choose to have the principal preserved, and then direct how the annual interest that is earned will be used.  Those donations allow the FSACF to support our community for many years to come; it is designed for the long-term.

 

During the annual grant process, the FSACF provides funds to help multiple community organizations meet the needs of our most vulnerable citizens. Truly, some of those grants are working to change lives every single day in Bourbon County.

 

In addition to those grants, perhaps one of the most important roles of the FSACF is collaboration.  We are more effective when governments, charities, businesses and individuals work together to solve problems and fill needs.  FSACF looks to create partnerships that pull all these elements together into a program that can address significant quality of life issues such as housing and parks.

 

I am so glad that many organizers and donors of every stripe loved our community enough to make the investment of their time, talent and treasure on a volunteer basis to FSACF.  This type of collaborative effort is impressive; it gives credibility to our community and helps put us on the economic development map.

 

Bo Co Commission Agenda For May 10

Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: May 10, 2022

1st DistrictLynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd DistrictJim Harris Corrected: _______________________

3rd DistrictClifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________

County ClerkAshley Shelton

MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM

Call to Order

Flag Salute

Approval of Minutes from previous meeting

Eric Bailey Road and Bridge Report

Justin Meeks County Counselor Comment

Susan Bancroft Chief Financial Officer Comment

Shane Walker Chief Information Officer Comment

Public Comment

Elected Officials Comment

Commission Comment

Justifications for Executive Session:

KSA 754319(b)(1) To discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy

KSA 754319(b)(2) For consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the attorneyclient relationship

KSA 754319(b)(3) To discuss matters relating to employeremployee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the representative(s) of the body or agency

KSA 754319(b)(4) To discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships

KSA 754319(b)(6) For the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property

KSA 754319(b)(12) To discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting wou

Bo Co Commission Meets Monday

Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701


Date: May 9, 2022

1st DistrictLynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd DistrictJim Harris Corrected: _______________________

3rd DistrictClifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________

County ClerkAshley Shelton

MEETING HELD ON MONDAY, MAY 9TH AT 9AM IN THE COMMISSION ROOM

Call to Order

Flag Salute

Jim Harris Executive Session KSA 754319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual
nonelected personnel to protect their privacy

Drug Overdose Epidemic Survey

The Kansas Prescription Drug and Opioid Advisory Committee is conducting a public opinion survey regarding the drug overdose epidemic in Kansas. The purpose of this survey is to assess community needs regarding overdose prevention and response resources. These data will be used to develop a comprehensive drug overdose prevention plan for Kansas. Please disseminate among your personal and professional networks. The survey can be found here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/KDK55W5

 

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Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Board Meeting Minutes

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Board

Meeting Minutes

 

May 3, 2022

 

  1. Welcome and Call to Order:  Patty, Shana, David, Elizabeth, and Billie Jo attended.

 

  1. Approve March 1 minutes:  Patty moved, Elizabeth seconded, and the motion carried unanimously to approve the March 1 minutes.

 

  1. Treasurer’s Report:
  2. Family Assistance Recap: Since January, we have helped 7 families, including 17 children, for an approximate total of $1,865.83; another request for approximately $318 is pending.  Billie Jo noted that we are somewhat under budget for the year so far.
  3. Bank Balance as of February April 28: $54,245.32
  4. Families for Hope (Kim Rose) – $300.00. Billie Jo noted that following the discussion about helping with this request during the March meeting; she researched and found our amount of assistance in the past was $125 – $150 per year.  However, the committee decided to donate $300 since we have not donated during the Covid seasons and this amount did not put us over budget.

 

  1. Old Business:
  2. Bank signature cards. Billie Jo will contact UMB to explore what all needs to happen to add David’s name to our bank account; she will also contact Sue to get her thoughts on the treasurer’s position.
  3. Board secretary.  Shana has volunteered to be our secretary; our job is to remind her before each meeting to bring her computer.
  4. We need a June program (and all programs starting in August). Billie Jo asked board members to let her know of interesting topics that might make good programs for our General Coalition meetings.

 

  1. New Business:
  2. 2022 Swim pass program: approve applications. Members spent time perusing the 28 applications; one application needs further consideration due to Buck Run’s report of misbehavior; all others were approved.  Billie Jo will contact Chasity Ware, pool manager, to ensure that all are deserving of passes.  Billie Jo also informed the board that she had visited with Kelly Zellner, City Manager, to enlist help from the City with the cost of the passes.  She will be giving a presentation/plea at the City Commission meeting later this evening.
  3. Kansas income tax filings. Billie Jo will contact Sue to ensure this is completed before the end of May.

 

 

  1. Open Forum:  Members enjoyed visiting and discussing issues but no other business was conducted.

 

  1. Adjournment:  Next General Membership meeting – May 4, 2022.

 

Uniontown City Council Minutes of April 12

The Regular Council Meeting on April 12, 2022 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:02 PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger, and Josh Hartman.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association, Raymond “Skeet” George, Uniontown Ruritan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

Susan Eldridge, Uniontown Alumni Association asked for permission to hold the all school reunion in the city park the evening of Saturday, September 3, 2022.  They will provide insurance certificate.  They request that the ban on alcoholic beverages in the park be lifted for that evening and want to know if there are any other limitations.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second  by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Uniontown Alumni Association to host all school reunion in the city park on September 3, 2022, allow alcohol consumption from 5PM to Midnight, and no glass containers allowed

 

Raymond “Skeet” George, Ruritan – asked the council to recess to view the location for the proposed public restrooms.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to recess for 10 minutes to view 112 Second St

 

Meeting resumed at 7:19.  Mr George asked for action to designate the location for the project.

 

Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to allow preliminary planning for construction of an ADA public restroom at northeast corner of 112 Second St

 

Discussion followed regarding funding for the public restroom, pickleball court, and outdoor equipment.  This project qualifies for the placemaking pathway we pledged.  Contact REDI for best time to submit an application for 2022 funding.  ARPA funds could also be used for this.

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger was absent. March written Treasurer’s Report and 1st Quarter Report were presented.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $338,643.12, Receipts $52,765.73, Transfers Out $3,026.00, Expenditures $23,883.18, Checking Account Closing Balance $364,499.67. Bank Statement Balance $364,938.99, including Checking Account Interest of $29.90, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $439.32, Reconciled Balance $364,499.67.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $30,063.99, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $18,566.16, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $28,346.12, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $441,475.94. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $85.61, and Utility CDs $74.84 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $160.45.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of March 2022, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $0, Expenditures $0, Ending Balance $0.  March Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, Total Transfers of $3,026.00.  Net Income for the month of March $25,856.55, Year-to-Date Net Income $40,756.17.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $27,812.18 (26.4%), Expenditures $25,333.54 (19.5%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $8,633.12 (24.2%), Expenditures $11,942.48 (29.1%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $54,144.38 (38.8%), Expenditures $28,296.04 (11.5%); General Fund YTD Revenue $49,170.41 (38.3%), Expenditures $29,562.90 (17.9%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $1,814.86 (26.5%), Expenditures $397.28 (3.7%).  The April 2022 estimated payables in the amount of $29,474.19 were presented.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of March 8, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent Rich reported that the storage building at 112 Second St has been removed, two gas main valves have been replaced, and the speed bumps/signs have been installed.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 104 Fulton has been cleaned up by new owner. An issue of trash in a trailer and debris in the back yard at 202 Fourth St was addressed and trailer has been removed.  103 Fifth is being cleaned up by new owner.  He has contacted our attorney twice in the last two months to get something resolved with the Smith Estate with no response back.  301 Second St #1 has a lot of clutter and debris.  Clerk Johnson will contact the attorney to try to speed things up.  It was suggested to schedule a worksession to continue discussion on shipping/storage containers, accessory/storage buildings, fences regulations and citywide solid waste.  It will be scheduled at next meeting.  Councilmember Ervin asked him to go by 301 Second St and address the collection of clutter/debris.

 

Clerk Johnson presented the financial audit contract with minimal increase in cost but less than anticipated in the budget.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept the financial audit engagement letter with Diehl, Banwart, Bolton

 

Loren Korte was here with the insurance renewal and went over changes with Clerk Johnson.  Overall increase in premiums is 6.74% but less than anticipated in the budget.  He will present to council if needed.  Council concurred it was not needed.

Rabies clinic was April 9 with a good turnout.  Thirteen dogs and seven cats were registered at the clinic.  Clerk Johnson presented a list of animals registered last year that are not yet registered this year, a list of new residents that need a reminder that dogs and cats are required to be registered, and a list of those that have registered but not provided proper rabies documentation.  She will go over this list with Animal Control Officer Binford to get citations issued.

Kansas Municipal Utilities conference in April 27-29 in Wichita which also includes the KMGA Board of Directors meeting and an afternoon of sessions on gas.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to allow Bobby Rich and/or Sally Johnson to attend the KMU conference in Wichita, April 27-29, if they choose

 

KMGA will be hosting regional meetings this year.  The one for our area will be in Humboldt on July 14.  Will put on the agenda again in June.  Clerk Johnson also presented a market update from KMGA.

Midwest Assistance Program would like to assist communities in the application process for USDA community facility project grants and/or loans.  Clerk Johnson will contact them for more information about what is available and what would be the city’s obligation.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – nothing

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – absent

Councilman Stewart – absent

Mayor Jurgensen – thanked councilmembers and employees that attended the county commission meeting last month.  Asked if fish food has been received.  Clerk Johnson has ordered but it has not been shipped yet, she will follow-up.  He had a request to change elected officials pay to monthly whether attend regular meeting or not which led to a discussion on protocol for elected officials censure or removal.  Clerk Johnson will have the attorney draft an ordinance addressing elected officials pay and protocols.

 

OLD BUSINESS

Wholesale water supply – table until next month.

 

Pond Improvement Project – Invitations to bid should be sent/published next month and the liner needs to be ordered due to shipping times.

 

City Utility Low-Interest Loan update – this does not need to be discussed monthly, put on the agenda quarterly for updates.

 

American Rescue Plan Act update – The annual report has been submitted. There was some discussion about using the funds for the public restrooms, pickleball court, and outdoor exercise equipment.  We will add discussion of the funds to the worksession we schedule next month.

 

Street Repair – Mayor Jurgensen was thanked for asking county commissioners for a commitment to help us on our streets this year at the March 22 commission meeting.  Table further discussion until next month.

 

NEW BUSINESS

Motion by Ervin, Second by Stewart, Approved 5-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 9:00PM

 

Meeting resumed at 9:00PM.  No action was taken

 

Moved by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at

The Uniontown City Council Agenda For May 10

The Uniontown City Council Agenda for May 10

Council members:

___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

Appoint City Clerk, City Treasurer, Court Clerk, Municipal Judge, Prosecutor, official newspaper, bank and administer oath of office

 

Ruritan Bathroom Project, Skeet George –

 

 

CITIZENS REQUESTS

 

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports

 

APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA

  1. Minutes of April 12, 2022 Regular Council Meeting
  2. Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

Superintendent:  Bobby Rich

KCC Inspection

 

Codes Enforcement:  Doug Coyan

Shipping/Storage Containers, Accessory/Storage Buildings, Fences regulations, Solid Waste – set worksession date

 

 

Clerk Report:  Sally Johnson  

Financial Audit

 

 

COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS

Councilman Ervin –

Councilwoman Esslinger –

Councilman Hartman –

Councilwoman Kelly –

Councilman Stewart–

Mayor Jurgensen –

 

OLD BUSINESS

Wholesale water supply –

 

Pond Improvement Project –

 

American Rescue Plan Act update– set worksession date

 

Street Repair –

 

NEW BUSINESS

Motion by ________________, Second by _____________________, Approved ________ to recess into executive session pursuant to the nonelected personnel matters exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1) in order to discuss performance evaluations of nonelected personnel, the open meeting to resume at____________.

2022 Financials – April 

 

 

 

What’s Happening in Fort Scott Newsletter

What’s Happening in Fort Scott!
May 6th Weekly Newsletter
So much fun coming up in Fort Scott,
share with your friends & family!
UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
________________
TROLLEY TOURS,
ON THE HOUR FROM THE CHAMBER!
Friday 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm
Saturday 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm
$6 adults, $4 children 12 & under
50-minute narrated tour of Historic Fort Scott!
5/6 ~ 100 Things To Do in Kansas Before You Die Book Signing at No. 87 Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heros, 2-4pm
5/6-7 ~ Spring Town-Wide Garage Sale find the map here.
5/5-8 ~ Big Kansas Road Trip, click here for more details about BKRT. See section below for SPECIAL EVENTS happening this weekend only as part of the Big Kansas Road Trip!
5/6-7 ~ Pioneer Harvest Swap Meet, Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 8am-5pm, click here.
5/6 ~ USD 234 Preschool Roundup, Appointment only, 8-3pm, click here.
5/6 ~ Ft. Scott Elks Paint Night, Elks Lodge, 6-9pm, click here.
5/6 ~ Friday Night Concert in the Park featuring Stephan Moses, 7-8pm, Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st & Main St., bring a lawn chair if possible due to limited seating.
5/6-5/7 ~ Indoor/Outdoor Yard Sale, Museum of Creativity, clickhere.
5/7 ~ Fort Scott Farmers Market Opening Day, Skubitz Plaza, 8am-12pm, Bourbon County Garden Club will be there this Sat. only with a plant sale!
5/7 ~ Youth Fishing Derby hosted by the Elks, FSCC Lake, Registration is at 9:30, Kids fish from 10am-12pm
5/7 ~ FSCH 5k and 2 Mile Fun Run, Margrave St., 7am-3pm, click here.
5/7 ~ 56th Annual Country Store and Auction, FSCH, 9am-8pm, click here.
5/7 ~ FSCC Hall of Fame Golf Tournament, Woodland Hills Golf Course.
5/7 ~ Care to Share Quarterly Cancer Support Group Meeting, Open to the Public, 902 Horton St., 10:30am
5/7 ~ Fort Scott High School Prom, Liberty Theatre, Walk-in 6:30pm, Prom 8pm.
5/7 ~ Kids Fishing Derby, Gunn Park Rd, 12pm-4pm, click here.
5/7 ~ Quilt Auction, Museum of Creativity, 1-3pm, click here.
5/7 ~ FSCC Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony, River Room, 5:30 pm
5/8 ~ Mother’s Day
5/11 ~ Tri-Valley 1/2 Price Plant Sale, 4305 Campbell Dr. Industrial Park, 10am-2pm
5/12 ~ Chamber Coffee Hosted by Old Fort Genealogical Society of SEK, 221 S. National Ave. (lower level of Memorial Hall), 8am
5/13 ~ Friday Night Concerts in the Park, Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st and Main, 7pm
5/14 ~ World Migratory Bird Day, Fort Scott National Historic Site
5/14 ~ Paint in the Park, Gunn Park, 2-4pm, click here.
5/14 ~ FSCC Reception Honoring Steve Armstrong & Bernita Hill, 10:30am, click here.
5/14 ~ Kansas Rocks Night Run, 2051 130th St. Mapleton, KS
5/14 ~ FSHS Graduation, 8pm
5/14 ~ FSCC Graduation, Ellis Fine Arts Center
5/14 ~ Roller Skating, Buck Run Community Center, 7-9pm
5/15 ~ Bourbon County Democrats Monthly Meeting and Training Day, FSCC Administration Building, 2pm
5/16 ~ 4A Boys Golf Regionals, Woodland Hills Golf Course, 8am
5/16-5/19 ~ 4A SEK Regionals Baseball Tourn, LaRoche Complex
5/16 ~ Tiger Drama Club Meeting & Auditions, FSHS, 12-4pm, click here.
5/17 ~ CHC/SEK Mammogram Screening Event, 7am-7pm, click here.
5/19 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by Kale Nelson State Farm, 1805 S. National Ave, 8am
SAVE THE DATE:
5/21 ~ Step Into Summer Sidewalk Sale, Downtown and Around
      5/21 ~ Public Forum: Stronger Together, 3rd St Park 9-11am
5/21 ~ Shead Farm Homestead Festival, 2468 Calvary Rd, Garland, KS, 10am-5pm, click here.
    5/26th ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by FSHS Alumni, 8am
      5/26 ~ Chamber Annual Dinner & Awards Celebration, River Room
      5/26-5/27 ~ Kansas 6A Baseball Tournament, LaRoche Complex
_____________
SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!
Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!
Clickhere for Chamber member
specialty shopping & other retail in
Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.
Museum of Creativity Yard Sale
Special Events this weekend only as part of
Big Kansas Road Trip, May 5th-8th
  • 1553 Plants & Produce, 1553 205th St., Kerry & Kenny Wunderly invite guests Fri until 8pm, Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 9am-5pm.
  • Black Dogs Farm, 351 230th St., Bryan & Barbara Ritter offering Saturday tours at 1, 2 and 3pm, Watch sheep shearing, fiber demonstration and tour a traditional farm. Buy free range eggs, lamb, artistic woolen garments and honey. No admission, donations appreciated.
  • 1553 Plants & Produce, 1553 205th St., Kerry & Kenny Wunderly invite guests Fri until 8pm, Sat 9am-7pm, Sun 9am-5pm.
  • First Presbyterian Church, 308 S. Crawford, offering tours Sat & Sun 9am-4pm of the church from when the 1888 church was razed, many ofthe bricks & materials were reused to build the present 1924 church.
  • Freedom Farms, 1863 Eagle Rd., Gary & Kylene Palmer, invite you to visit the farm, see the animals and enjoy chicken leg lollipops and scotch eggs for a minimal charge. Fri. until 7pm, Saturday 8am-1pm.
  • Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, 1 S. Main St., will be offering a talk at 10am Sat by Cathy Werling, author of their Unsung Heroes Children’s Book Series, and a 1pm Sat. presentation on “Life in a Jar: The Irena Sendler Project” by Norm Conard and Megan Felt, two of its creators.
  • The Courtland Hotel, 121 E. 1st St., Frank & Cheryl Adamson invite you Fri-Sat-Sun 9am-5pm for a short 15-minute tour of the charming 1906 historic hotel.
  • The Lavender Patch Farm, 2376 Locust Rd., Davin & Betsy Reichard, walk the fields, talk to the owners and shop. Watch various lavender processing demos throughout the day. Friday, Saturday and Sunday 9am-6pm.
  • The Pot Pantry, 1366 215th St., award-winning clay artist Bobbi Kemna invites you to visit the pottery studio and gallery space in the 1800’s Rock House where memorable classes are also taught to all ages, individuals and small groups.
  • Vinedo del Alamo Winery, 2304 Poplar Rd., take a relaxing self-guided tour of the vineyard which will be in full bloom! Free tasting with the purchase of one bottle of wine.
  • View many more events & attractions open in Bourbon County this weekend on www.bigkansasroadtrip.com!
FSCC Reception Honoring Steve Armstrong & Bernita Hill
FSHS Tiger Drama Club
Shead Farm Homestead Festival
FORT CINEMA SHOW SCHEDULE THIS WEEKEND

Explore With Big Kansas Road Trip

Dolly the Trolley in downtown Fort Scott. From VisitFortScott Facebook page.

An annual Kansas tourism promotion is coming to our portion of the state today, May 6 and tomorrow, May 7. The event is promoting Bourbon, Cherokee and Crawford Counties.

“We’ve had a steady stream of visitors,” Lindsay Madison, Executive Director of Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce said on Thursday. She and her staff are welcoming them and giving info about the event. The Chamber is located at 231 E. Wall.

The Big Kansas Road Trip is designed to encourage people to explore different parts of our state by visiting it, with the hope of bolstering Kansas communities, according to their website.

To learn about agri-tourism sites, events and other things to do, visit:

https://visitfortscott.com/

Those of us who live in Bourbon County are encouraged to explore with tourists on these days as well.

The Big Kansas Road Trip is promoted through the Kansas Sampler Foundation whose mission is to preserve and sustain Kansas culture by educating Kansans about Kansas and networking/supporting local communities, according to its website.

There are some great eating places in Bourbon County, to choose one see the BKRT listing:  EAT IN LOCAL CAFES

If you want to explore our county, check out the places that are listed in the Big Kansas Road Trip website:

Block House
Bourbon County

Block House

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Old Fort Blvd. and Oak, Fort Scott, KS

The two-story wooden structure just outside the fort’s entrance was built around 1864 to help Fort Scott (town and post) defend against anticipated Confederate advances. Fortunately, no attacks occurred.

Bourbon County Courthouse
Bourbon County

Bourbon County Courthouse

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Friday May 06, 2022 8:30am to 4:00pm 210 S. National, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.0780

Built of red brick and limestone in the Modern Eclecticism style, the 1930 Bourbon County courthouse stands with solid authority on the square at 210 S. National. Visitors are welcome to go to the third-floor courtroom (if court is not in session) to view the 1929 D.H. Overmeyer mural Justice Enthroned. A Civil War cannon, war memorials, and a GAR monument guard the front lawn. Mon-Fri 8:30am-4pm.

Read More

Bourbon State Fishing Lake & Waterfall
Bourbon County

Bourbon State Fishing Lake & Waterfall

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours In Bourbon County (west) near Allen County

On the west side of this 103 acre state fishing lake you’ll find a good place to cast your line for channel cat and largemouth/spotted bass. Also find several fishing piers, boat ramp and a floating dock. The waterfall usually runs a short period during the spring from early April through the end of June. You’ll find the waterfall on the north end of the lake, about a quarter mile from Ivory Rd. For detailed directions, click on Read More below, which takes you to Keith Stokes (Kansas Explorer #4392, Kansas Travel website.) Photo courtesy Keith Stokes.

Read More

Brick Street History
Bourbon County

Brick Street History

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Fort Scott, KS

In the early 1900s a large brick plant here produced 100,000 bricks every 10 days. The bricks cost two to four cents each, and a daily shipment filled approxi-mately a dozen rail cars. Fort Scott bricks were used in the construction of the Panama Canal and for the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (nicknamed the Brickyard when its track was bricked in 1911). More than 10 miles of brick streets remain in Fort Scott. They are included in the Downtown Fort Scott National Register for Historic Places designation. https://tinyurl.com/FortScottBrickStreets

Read More

Civil War Statue
Bourbon County

Civil War Statue

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Charles and Spruce Streets, Bronson, KS

Charles and Spruce (City Park). Posed in the middle of the park is one of only four white-bronze (cast zinc) Civil War statues in the state. Dedicated in 1907, this sentinel style soldier is more commonly seen in northern states.

First Horseshoe Tournament
Bourbon County

First Horseshoe Tournament

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours City Park, State and Spruce Streets, Bronson, KS

A small blue sign on the east side of town tells you that Bronson was home to the first horseshoe pitching tournament in the world! Although not the same horseshoe pits as those in the 1909 tournament, the pits in City Park at Charles and Spruce welcome you to bring your own horseshoes and play.

First Presbyterian Church
Bourbon County

First Presbyterian Church

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 See Description 308 S. Crawford, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.3180

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Three members made up the total congregation of this church when it was formed in 1859. When the 1888 church was razed, many of the bricks and materials were reused to build the present 1924 church. The auditorium, which seats 1,000, held the funeral for famed photographer and native son Gordon Parks in 2006. Church will be open 9am-4pm daily. Sunday services at 10:30am.

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Fort Scott Downtown Historic District
Bourbon County

Fort Scott Downtown Historic District

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Fort Scott, KS 620.670.2750

Oak to Third and Scott to National. Despite fires, including the most recent in 2005, and the federal urban renewal project in the 1960s that demolished 85 historic buildings, the downtown still boasts 58 contributing buildings to the historic district designation. https://tinyurl.com/FortScottHistDist

Read More

Fort Scott Historic Driving Tour
Bourbon County

Fort Scott Historic Driving Tour

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Visit Fort Scott, 231 E. Wall, Fort Scott, KS

The driving tour brochure describes 46 sites and provides an excellent overview of the town, particularly of the architectural history of downtown buildings. Brochures are available at the Visitor Information Center, 231 E. Wall or visit their website and download the brochure.

Read More

Fort Scott National Cemetery
Bourbon County

Fort Scott National Cemetery

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 900 E. National, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.2840

The trolley guided and self-guided tours point out gravestones for U.S. Colored troops, Native American soldiers, buffalo soldiers, Confederates from the 1864 Mine Creek battle, and memorials to those who never came home from various wars. A large glacial stone marks the grave of illustrious poet Eugene Ware (1841-1911) who also was an editor, Civil War soldier, author, and founder of the first Fort Scott public library. In 1862 President Lincoln designated these grounds a national cemetery. A historic rostrum and an 1870 brick home also are within the cemetery.

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Fort Scott National Historic Site
Bourbon County

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 See Description 1 Old Fort Blvd., Fort Scott, KS 620.223.0310

Named for General Winfield Scott, the fort originally was established in 1842. Soldiers garrisoned here until 1853 to maintain peace between indigenous and relocated Indian tribes. In 1855 the government auctioned the fort structures to newly arriving settlers, and the area became the nucleus of the town of Fort Scott. During the Civil War, soldiers returned to Fort Scott and it became the supply and logistical center for the Union Army of the West. Today this restored post, administered by the National Park Service, showcases 20 historic structures with excellent exhibits inside the buildings and on the grounds. Open daily, ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset. This attraction was voted as one of the top eight in the 8 Wonders of Kansas History category, sponsored by the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Visitor Center open daily, 8am-5pm (summer); 8:30am-4:30pm (winter hours).

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Fort Scott Public Library
Bourbon County

Fort Scott Public Library

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Saturday May 07, 2022 See Description 201 S National Ave, Fort Scott, KS

Built in the Beaux Arts style, the 1904 two-story red-brick Carnegie library (NRHP) still operates as the Fort Scott library. Thu-Fri 9:30am-5:30pm; Sat 9:30am-1:30pm.

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Frontier Military Historic Byway
Bourbon County

Frontier Military Historic Byway

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Old Fort Boulevard, Fort Scott, KS

From Fort Gibson, Oklahoma, through Fort Scott, and north to Fort Leavenworth, this byway follows the old military road established between 1838 and 1845 to connect these forts. Supporters of both the free-state and proslavery causes also used this road during our state’s territorial period. Interpretative signage located in front of the fort along Old Fort Boulevard.

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Fulton High School Architecture
Bourbon County

Fulton High School Architecture

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 408 W. Osage, Fulton, KS

Three distinct eras and architectural designs are apparent in the former Fulton School, listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The red-brick two-story school building was built in 1917, the stone gymnasium was a 1936 WPA project, and the brick one-story cafeteria was added in 1964. Closed as a school in 1978, the building is now a community center. Photo courtesy KSHS.org.

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Fulton Marsh Arch Bridge
Bourbon County

Fulton Marsh Arch Bridge

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 215th St. (Old U.S. Hwy. 69), Fulton, KS

Fulton is located about 20 minutes north of Fort Scott along Old U.S. 69. Since 1927 traffic has crossed the Little Osage River on the sturdy Marsh rainbow single-arch bridge. In Fulton, from E. Spruce, go ½ mile north on 215th and drive over the bridge.

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Gordon Parks Gravestone
Bourbon County

Gordon Parks Gravestone

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours Evergreen Cemetery, 914 215th St, Fort Scott, KS

From 23rd, 1½ miles south on U.S. 69, then ½ mile west on Indian. Look for a black vertical stone in the cemetery’s north end (section 7) by the road. On either side of the stone is a Parks’ poem, “Homecoming” and “A Sign by the Road.” His flat gray gravestone is behind this marker.

Gordon Parks Museum
Bourbon County

Gordon Parks Museum

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Saturday May 07, 2022 See Description 2108 S. Horton (Fort Scott Community College campus), Fort Scott, KS 620.223.2700, ext. 5850

Gordon Parks, born in Fort Scott in 1912, was a pioneer for blacks in the fields of photography, filmmaking, and writing. His photos depicting poverty and racism, among other subjects, were potent pictures in Life magazine for 20 years. Impressive exhibits and artifacts are on display to help you know Parks and the topics he cared about. See his writing desk, a film camera and tripod, and some of his iconic photographs including those of the Tuskegee Airmen, Muhammad Ali, and American Gothic. The museum will be open extra hours for BKRT visitors. Gordon Parks was voted as one of the top eight in the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art category, sponsored by the Kansas Sampler Foundation. Thu-Fri 9am-5pm; Sat 10am-4pm.

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Gunn Park
Bourbon County

Gunn Park

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 1010 Park, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.0550

In 1910 W.C. Gunn donated the land for Gunn Park and some 20 years later the WPA added the main lake and stone shelter houses and walls. Newer additions include an 18-hole disc golf course, numerous biking and hiking trails, a dog park, and a second lake stocked with trout.

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Gunn Park Doll Houses
Bourbon County

Gunn Park Doll Houses

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 1100 Park, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.0550

For years Gunn Park had its own caretaker who lived on site with his family. In 1927 caretaker E.V. Kelley built two doll houses for his young daughters Nadine and Jenny. Quite unique, they are more like miniature houses, built outdoors and made of stone. In 2016 the local Kiwanis Club restored and rebuilt the wee buildings, and as you enter Gunn Park you’ll see them to the south. The abandoned caretaker’s home is nearby.

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Kansas Rocks Recreation Park
Bourbon County

Kansas Rocks Recreation Park

Saturday May 07, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 See Description 2051 130th St, Mapleton, KS 620.829.5328

Some say it’s like being in the Ozarks! Opened in 2003, Kansas Rocks Recreation Park provides trails for mountain bikers, hikers, utility vehicles, and four-wheel-drive vehicles (5 mph speed limit). As you might expect, you’ll come across plenty of rocks! What you might not expect is the 200-foot elevation change in these 400 acres. Kanrocks, as the park is known, is a wonderful getaway to enjoy the outdoors in a beautiful rocky terrain. Sat 8am-7pm, Sun 8am-5pm. Admission charge.

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LaRoche Baseball Complex
Bourbon County

LaRoche Baseball Complex

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 4805 Campbell Dr, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.0550

Stop by and see the impressive, state-of-the-art LaRoche Baseball Complex. The Dave Regan Stadium inside the LaRoche Baseball Complex features 500 stadium seats, 500 bleacher seats, and room for 2500 on the grassy berms. The complex was funded by major league baseball star, Adam LaRoche, who graduated from high school in Fort Scott. “In the majors, LaRoche played for the Atlanta Braves, Pittsburg Pirates, Boston Red Sox and Arizona Diamondbacks before joining the Nationals in 2011. He had his best season in 2012, winning a Gold Glove and hitting 33 home runs with 100 RBIs in leading Washington to its first National League East Division title.”

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Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes
Bourbon County

Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Saturday May 07, 2022 See Description 1 S Main St, Fort Scott, KS 620.223.1312

This state-of-the-art exhibition space recognizes unsung heroes who stood up for others, often at great risk to themselves. Their compelling stories are told through inter- active kiosks and displays. Two of these brave heroes are Irena Sendler, a Polish social worker who rescued more than 2,500 Jewish children during WWII; and Ken Reinhardt, who befriended the first black students to attend his high school in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957. Additional heroes are recognized every year. The center is named for international philanthropist and education supporter Lowell Milken. Mon-Fri 10am-5pm; Sat 10am-4pm.

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National Avenue Bridge
Bourbon County

National Avenue Bridge

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 336 N. National, Fort Scott, KS

Named the National Avenue Bridge and painted bright rust orange, the 1933 Marsh rainbow single-arch bridge stands out as it spans the Marmaton River. From 1st, ½ mile north on National. Learn more about Marsh Arch bridges in Kansas by clicking on Read More below.

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Pine Lawn Cemetery
Bourbon County

Pine Lawn Cemetery

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours South of Fort Scott on 215th

Pine Lawn Cemetery was established circa 1869 by the Jewish burial society as the interment grounds for the Jewish community that thrived in Fort Scott in the 1880s and 1890s. From E. Wall, 3 miles south on U.S. 69/K-7, ½ mile west on Ironwood, then ¼ mile south on 215th. Photo courtesy Diana Staresinic-Deane, read Diana’s blog: https://tinyurl.com/53r2rsa3

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Post Office Section Art - Fort Scott
Bourbon County

Post Office Section Art – Fort Scott

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Saturday May 07, 2022 8:00am to 5:00pm 120 S. National, Fort Scott, KS

“Border Gateways”, a 1937 oil on canvas by Oscar E. Berninghaus, depicts pioneers in covered wagons coming into the newly established Kansas Territory in 1854. This New Deal (Depression era) Section artwork can be viewed by entering the Post Office lobby and take the elevator to 2nd floor. Section Art was a finalist for the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art contest. Click on Read More to learn more!

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Rock Creek Lake
Bourbon County

Rock Creek Lake

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 195th Street, Fort Scott, KS

The 50 acre Rock Creek Lake is an integral part of the city and rural water reserve system. Located on the Marmaton River, and surrounded by deep woods, Rock Creek serves as a habitat for wildlife as well as a quiet haven for fishermen, canoeists and campers. Discover the Rock Creek Falls during rain season! Drive west on 18th Street. The street name will change to Kansas Road and after an unpaved stretch, will turn south becoming 195th Street, which runs along the east side of Rock Creek Lake. Pull into the park at the north end of Rock Creek Lake and follow the narrow gravel road across the dam to the turn around next to the falls.

The Learning Tree Film Sign Trail, 1968
Bourbon County

The Learning Tree Film Sign Trail, 1968

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 Daylight Hours 2108 S. Horton St., Fort Scott, KS 620.223.2700 Ext. 5850

The fall of 1968 in Fort Scott, Kansas, marked a historical time when the first major Hollywood motion picture was directed by a black film director, Kansas’ native son, Gordon Parks. The Learning Tree, released in 1969, is based on a semi-autobiographical novel that Gordon Parks wrote in 1963. Several of the scenes were filmed on location in and around Fort Scott and Mound City. Hundreds of people from both Fort Scott and Mound City area were a part of the film as extras, with a few having speaking roles in the film. The Learning Tree Trail is a series of signs located at the different scene locations where the filming of The Learning Tree took place. The signs will also include QR codes along with a virtual tour of the identified scene locations of the film. Click on the Read More link for more information.

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Trolley Tours
Bourbon County

Trolley Tours

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 See Description 231 E. Wall, Fort Scott, KS 620.670.2750

The trolley driver doubles as guide offering an informative 50-minute tour around town in an old-fashioned trolley. You’ll learn about the national cemetery, “painted ladies,” the horse race track, Mark Twain’s secretary’s studio, Pill Hill, and all sorts of intriguing Fort Scott history. It’s a marvelous starting point for your Fort Scott explorations. $6 for adults; $4 for kids (12 & Under); Free for kids under 3. Find the trolley at the Fort Scott Visitor Information Center. Thu-Fri 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm; Sat 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm, 3pm; Sun 1pm, 2pm.

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Vinedo del Alamo Vineyard
Bourbon County

Vinedo del Alamo Vineyard

Thursday May 05, 2022 – Sunday May 08, 2022 9:00am to 6:00pm 2304 Poplar Rd, Fort Scott, KS 620.215.6311

Vinedo Del Alamo is the first winery in the world to bottle Arandell grapes, from Cornell University in Ithaca, New York, without the use of other blends and varieties. We have been actively growing and harvesting grapes since 2011. Take a relaxing self guided tour of the vineyard which will be in full bloom. The winery is an actual working farm that includes camping, wine tastings and much more! A free tasting with the purchase of one bottle of wine.

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https://www.bigkansasroadtrip.com/

Selfie by Patty LaRoche

Patty LaRoche

Dave noticed her from our Mazatlán deck and pointed her out to me.  She, the mother of three youngsters, sat in her lounge chair nearby while her kiddies played in the pool.  For fifteen (15!!!) minutes, she took Selfies, which, statistically speaking, were some of the 93 million taken that day.

First, she checked the sunlight.  Then she twisted sideways.  Swished her hair.  Puckered her lips.  Moved her bangs.  Crossed her legs.  Uncrossed her legs.  Raised her eyebrows. Tossed her head.  Showed her pearly whites.  Closed her mouth.  Turned the other direction and started over.

You name it.  She tried it.  This mother was determined to find one photo that made her look stunning, oblivious to her young kids in the pool. Dave found it fascinating that she was so picky about finding the perfect pose to impress…well, someone. (Perhaps just herself?)

Surely one of the Selfies in the first minute should have done the trick, right? I mean, even I can probably find one picture that makes me look younger, skinnier and sexier quicker than that.                      Okay, I can’t, but you know what I mean.

Talk about self-consumed neediness!  The woman’s search to appear perfect screamed volumes of insecurity. Goodness, she has three children.  If ever an excuse existed to have crows’ feet, eyebags and unruly hair, this was it.  Relish it.  Be empowered by it.  Use it.

Like I do.

But then, for some reason, I started thinking of myself, and yes, I know, that that in itself is a form of neediness.  Haven’t I been known to delete album photos that for some silly reason make me appear 30 pounds overweight?  Or magnify my double-chin? Or show my bald spot?

Yes to all of the above.

But that’s not the worst of it.  Not only am I needy in the physical realm, I’m needy in the spiritual realm even more, even though I want to want (read that again) everything in my life to be about loving God first and looking forward to life with Him in eternity. You know, loving the cross more than the crown.

Don’t I agree with Paul’s writing in 2 Corinthians 5:8? “…we would rather be away from the body and at home with the Lord.”  Paul would never have taken a Selfie.  His purpose on earth had nothing to do with how he looked to others.  It was all about pleasing Jesus and meeting him face-to-face in Heaven.

I’ve been thinking that someone should invent a Sacred Selfie to reveal our spiritual lives…sort of a wake-up call for Christians who just might need to get into the Son-light to examine their priorities.

Then again, maybe that’s what the Bible is for.