Monthly Archives: June 2022
Enjoy Free Fishing Days – June 4-5, 2022
PRATT – June 4 and 5 are Free Fishing Days in Kansas, when anyone can fish on any public waters without a fishing license. The free weekend provides the perfect opportunity to introduce someone to the joys of angling; kind of a “try it before you buy it” opportunity. In Kansas, anyone age 16-74 must have a fishing license to fish, except on Free Fishing Days, and although license requirements are waived, anglers must still abide by all other regulations such as length and creel limits, and equipment requirements.
If you’re looking for a place to drop a line during Free Fishing Days, visit ksoutdoors.com/fishing and click “Where To Fish” for a list of fishing locations near you.
After you’ve found an ideal spot or two, consult the 2022 Kansas Fishing Regulations Summary prior to hitting the water. The summary contains vital information specific to all public waters and even has some handy tips and tricks on tying knots and identifying fish. View an electronic version at ksoutdoors.com/fishing, or pick up a hard-copy at your nearest license vendor.
Kansas fishing regulations, forecasts, and more can also be accessed via the GoOutdoorsKS mobile app for iOS and Android. Visit https://ksoutdoors.com/
With the right location, a variety of baits to choose from, and some cooperative weather, Kansas fishing can be a blast. Give it a try; we can bet you’ll be hooked.
Ks Helps Small Business Recovery
Governor Laura Kelly Signs Bill Providing $50 Million of Financial Relief to Kansas
Small Businesses
TOPEKA –Surrounded by small business leaders in downtown Topeka, Governor Laura Kelly today signed bipartisan House Bill 2136, which will invest $50 million to help small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Providing $50 million of financial assistance for small businesses is just one more way my Administration is working to make Kansas the most pro-business state in the country,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The financial assistance legislation I signed today will support our entrepreneurs by ensuring they can make the investments they need to hire workers, strengthen their product lines, and better serve their communities.”
“Small businesses are what power our economy, and this legislation builds on years of work to ensure they have the resources they need to continue to serve customers and create jobs,” said Senator Tom Holland. “Through bipartisan collaboration, we will be able to continue to make sure that our economy continues to grow a strong base of businesses here in Kansas.”
Governor Kelly was joined at the bill signing by small business owners, the Greater Topeka Partnership, and the Kansas Chamber of Commerce.
“House Bill 2136 is a product of the many people who have shown unwavering commitment to Kansas small businesses,” Eric Stafford, Vice President of Government Affairs for the Kansas Chamber of Commerce, said. “On behalf of the Kansas business community, thank you to Governor Kelly and the legislature for supporting this legislation. It will provide relief for the small businesses that make up the backbone of our state.”
More information about HB 2136 can be found here.
Kansas COVID Impact On Child Care
Report notes the COVID-19 impact on Child Care in Kansas
TOPEKA – The 2021 Child Care Supply Demand Report is available. The report, created in partnership with the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) and Child Care Aware of Kansas, is focused on the impact the COVID-19 pandemic has had on child care in the state.
“We deeply appreciate the work of Child Care Aware of Kansas collecting data for the report,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard. “The report will be a valuable tool moving forward in our efforts to strengthen child care in Kansas.”
“This report highlights the challenges facing not only families and child care providers, but Kansas’ economy in general,” said Kelly Davydov, Executive Director of Child Care Aware of Kansas. “Dependable, high-quality early care and education is a basic requirement that all working families need.
“This report represents a critical first step in finding possible solutions for the child care system. ‘Know Better, Do Better’ is not only the title of the report, but also a moto we can all follow when tackling these challenges,” Davydov continued.
The complete report can be found at www.ks.childcareaware.org.
Obituary of Walter Fred Fredricksen Jr.
WALTER FRED FREDERICKSEN, JR.
Walt was born July 19, 1925, on the Sadie Beck farm near Odense, Kansas, to Walter and Marguerite (Woodruff) Fredericksen. He attended Savonburg grade school and graduated from Neodesha High School in 1943.
Walt served in the U.S. Army Infantry in the ETO from 1943-1946, fought at the Battle of Metz, the Battle of the Bulge, participated in the liberation of a concentration camp, and was awarded the Bronze Star and France’s Knight of the Legion of Honor medal. Walt was always proud to say he was a member of the famous 95th Infantry “Victory” Division, known as the “Iron Men of Metz.”
After the war, Walt studied geology at K-State from 1946-1951 and later completed classes at KU to become a Licensed Professional Engineer in Geological Engineering. Walt worked until retirement for the Kansas Highway Commission in northeast and southeast Kansas from 1951-1986.
Walt was married for 66 years to Juanita Murken of Neodesha, Ks. The couple lived on a farm near Thayer, Kansas, before moving to Fort Scott in 2002. Walt especially enjoyed fishing, attending his grandkids’ activities, rockhounding trips, and cheering for his K-State Wildcats. Walt was a lifetime member of the American Legion and Veterans of Foreign Wars.
Walt was predeceased by his wife, Juanita, their son Larry Eugene, his two sisters Delores Catlett and Patty Fernandez, and his nephews, Jim Catlett and Russell Fernandez.
Walt is survived by two daughters, Sue Fredericksen, Fort Scott, and Linda Fredericksen (Brian Caldwell), Sanibel, Florida, and grandchildren Alexander (Neal Nurnberg), Marguerite (Justin Whittaker), and Hannah (Kurtis West) Fredericksen, sister-in-law Ruth Hackworth, and his nephews Tom and Don Catlett, and Lloyd Fernandez, Jr.
No services are planned. The family requests donations to Sami’s Legacy, supporting the youth activities he so loved, c/o Konantz Cheney Funeral Home, 15 West Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: (620) 223-1212. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
New FS City Commissioner: Kathryn Harrington
Kathryn Harrington, 38, was selected to be the new Fort Scott City Commissioner at the June 1 special commission meeting.
Seven people sent letters of interest to the commission: Cheryl Adamson, Chuck Begulia, John Coon, Harrington, Nicolas Philpot, Dean Striler and Robert Uhler, according to the City of Fort Scott Facebook page.
Harrington will be filling the vacancy of Kevin Allen, who resigned last month.
Her hometown is Clarence, MO.
Harrington earned a degree in healthcare administration from the University of Phoenix.
She has had a career in health care for 18 years and is currently the director of Country Place Senior Living, Fort Scott.
She is married to Rob Harrington and they have four children.
Her community involvement is with Community Christian Church and volunteering at Bourbon County Regional Economic Development, Inc.
Harrington is passionate about health care and wants the city to look at the issues that surround it more closely, she said in an interview with fortscott.biz.
She said she wanted to “Step up to make a difference.”
To view the special commission meeting on YouTube:
Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Impact Report May 2022
KS Unemployment Insurance Modernization
Governor Laura Kelly Administration Formally Kicks Off Unemployment Insurance
System Modernization
~~Governor Kelly Sends Letter Urging U.S. Labor Secretary
to Provide Additional Federal Funding for Modernization~~
TOPEKA – Today, the Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) formally kicked off a $48 million, 26-month-long effort to modernize the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) system. Governor Laura Kelly also built on her previous support for the project by sending a letter to U.S. Secretary of Labor Secretary Marty Walsh urging him to provide additional funding previously allocated by the U.S. Congress for modernization.
“My administration is working quickly to update our antiquated computer systems so Kansans who need unemployment benefits don’t experience the same problems they faced during the pandemic,” Governor Kelly said. “Congress promised to help states modernize their unemployment insurance systems and allocated the resources to get them started. Kansas upheld its end of the deal by investing millions of dollars in a new system. It’s now time for the U.S. Department of Labor to release these modernization funds to the states as Congress directed. It’s the only way to ensure we are prepared for the next economic downturn.”
Kansas’ current mainframe system used to process UI benefits was created in the 1970s. The last major push to modernize began under Governor Sebelius in 2005 but was subsequently abandoned in 2011 by the Brownback administration. That shortsighted decision directly led to the systemic inefficiencies and vulnerabilities that occurred within the state’s unemployment system during the pandemic. The effort to bring Kansas’ UI system into the 21st century will be led by information technology experts Tata Consultancy Services (TCS).
“We have been looking forward to this day and to bringing everyone together to begin the formal process of developing a new, modernized unemployment system,” said Kansas Labor Secretary Amber Shultz. “TCS is a capable partner for KDOL to set a path for technology and process transformation that will enable the delivery of software that will be responsive to the future needs of the state.”
Upon completion, the KDOL’s new system will improve the experiences of unemployed Kansans and businesses that interact with the UI systems by:
- Modernizing technology: Replace the agency’s antiquated IT legacy system that supports unemployment insurance taxes, payment of unemployment insurance benefits, and delivery of employment services.
- Enhancing customer experience: Deliver improved services such as online self-service, automation, access to data, and integration with partners.
- Transforming business processes: Provide improved efficiencies in business processes, offer new tools for KDOL employees, and support more effective service delivery to Kansans.
- Improving data security: Better anticipate and respond to security threats and prevent unemployment insurance fraud.
- Providing expandable technology: Deliver a system capable of supporting new programs and functionality, as well as connections to other systems like workforce tools.
A page has been created on the KDOL website to keep the public updated on the modernization project’s progress. For the most recent information, visit www.dol.ks.gov/ui-
See a copy of Governor Kelly’s letter here.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports June 2
Starlite FCE Minutes June 2022
The May meeting of the Starlite FCE was held at the Yeager Building on the Bourbon County Fair Grounds. Vice President Joyce Allen called the meeting to order and led the club in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the Club Collect. Nine members were in attendance and reported one hundred and twelve hours of volunteering and that they had recycled ninety pounds of paper.
Doris Ericson presented the Treasurer’s report, Deb Lust moved that we accept the report, Terri Williams seconded the motion, motion carried. Karen Peery reported that the Council had met prior to the Regional Recognition Day. It was announced at the Recognition Day that Doris Ericson was selected as the Regional Heart of FCE and was now in the running for the State Heart of FCE. Joyce Allen announced the May birthdays which were LeAnna Taylor and herself.
New Business consisted of Deb Lust making the motion that the club enter the hay bale decorating contest and the Scarecrow contest at the fair, Deb Wood seconded the motion, motion carried. Joyce Allen announced that the library was looking for volunteers to provide snacks and to read stories. It was moved and seconded that we help the library. Joyce gave us the phone number to call to volunteer. Deb Woods was going to get an updated list for Glenda.
Deb Lust announced that she would let us know when the Poppy sales would be and that May 31st the American Legion would be helping with the Memorial Day Service at the National Cemetery. The VFW will be open after the Ceremony for people to gather. Deb also invited us to help in setting up the flags on the Avenue of Flags
It was moved and seconded that the club make a donation to the Allen Warren memorial. Joyce Allen asked that the members bring snacks for the VFW and rest homes in June.
Doris Ericson moved the meeting be adjourned, Del Parks seconded the motion, meeting adjourned.
Claudia Wheeler presented the program on Helpful hints to the members while they enjoyed refreshments of chocolate chip cookie bar, jello fruit dessert, juice and water
Prepared by
Terri Williams
Bo Co Coalition Minutes of June 1
Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition
General Membership Meeting Minutes
June 1, 2022
- Welcome: Eleven members representing nine agencies attended. Billie Jo noted the following greetings from those unable to attend in person:
- Michelle Stevenson, Fort Scott Early Childhood Program, has openings for the new grant year for families with children prenatal through age 6.
- Christine Abbott, Youth Career Advisor for SEKWorks, will be working in Independence on Wednesdays while they hire and orient a new Career Advisor for that area.
- Sandra Haggard, RSVP, did not have anything new to report but was unable to attend due to the weather.
- Jackie Sellers, Senior Citizens, reported that she has Farmers’ Market vouchers available for those who qualify. She also wanted members to be aware that the transportation service will run until 9:00 p.m. during Good ‘Ol Days. Due to the rise in cost for gasoline, taxi prices have been increased to $6.00; senior citizens and low income price is $5.00.
- Member Introductions and Announcements:
- Allen Schellack, Compassionate Ministries and Salvation Army, reviewed all the services that are available through his program. He also noted that the fan distribution funded by Evergy and managed by Salvation Army is now in progress.
- Holly Fritter, SEK Multi-County Health Department, reminded members of the Community Baby Shower to be held at Buck Run Community Center, June 23, from 10a.m. until noon.
- Shelly Kelley, SEK Mental Health, was welcomed as a first-time attendee.
- Lisa and Erin Thurston, Bourbon County Angels, also first-time attendees, gave a quick synopsis of their services. They are located at 111 West Third Street. Agency hours are 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. on Wednesdays and 8:00 a.m. until noon on Saturdays. They can be reached through the Facebook page or 620-644-8291. They would welcome volunteers.
- Lisa Robertson, CHC COPE (Community Organization to Promote Equity), noted that CHC is looking for drivers for their transportation program.
- Patty Simpson shared that all 190 units in the Fort Scott Housing Authority are currently full; she does maintain waiting lists.
- Elizabeth Schafer, CASA, noted they are still in need of volunteers.
- Program: April Jackson: Narcan Training. Due to unforeseen circumstances, April was not able to attend; we will plan this program for a later date.
- Open Forum:
- Billie Jo announced that the Community Christian Church will serve the Monday Feeding Families meals beginning June 6 and serve through August 29. There will, however, be no meal served on July 4.
- Billie Jo also shared that the Coalition Board had approved 27 family passes to the Fort Scott Aquatic Center.
- Elizabeth and Billie Jo informed members that the Next Steps program has been dissolved due to Covid and the lack of participants willing to commit to the class requirements.
- Adjournment: Next General Membership meeting will be August 3, 2022, at 1:00 p.m.
KS Tax Collections Exceed $900 Million
Governor Laura Kelly Announces May Total Tax Collections Exceed $900 Million
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that total tax collections for May were $910.1 million – $239.5 million, or 35.7%, higher than the estimate for the month.
“Our tax collection receipts continue to show the state’s fiscal health and the work my Administration has done to ensure Kansas is on solid financial footing,” Governor Kelly said. “We will continue our work to be fiscally responsible while providing tax cuts and fully funding schools, law enforcement, and roads.”
Individual income tax collections were $518.4 million. That is $198.4 million, or 62.0%, above the estimate. Corporate income tax collections were $51.4 million –$33.4 million, or 185.6%, more than the estimate.
Retail sales tax collections were $240.8 million – $13.8 million, or 6.1%, over the estimate and 5.7% over May 2021 sales tax receipts. Compensating use tax collections were $64.8 million, which is $2.2 million below the estimate but 19.1% greater than May 2021.
“May receipts reflect strong performances by the individual and corporate income tax types. Income tax receipts were not influenced by extensions of tax filing deadlines as had been the case in May 2020 and 2021,” Revenue Secretary Mark Burghart said. “Retail sales and compensating use tax receipts also continue to reflect the stability they have shown for the past 10 months.”
The spreadsheet for May tax collections can be found here.