Effective June 6, 2023, Josh Jones resigned his position as City Commissioner on the Fort Scott City Commission. Persons interested in applying to fill the position vacated by Commissioner Josh Jones are asked to submit a Letter of Interest to: City Clerk, Lisa Lewis at 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701 or by email at [email protected] . Letters of Interest must be received by the City Clerk by 12:00 p.m. on Friday, June 16, 2023. Only individuals who reside in the City limits of Fort Scott are eligible to apply. Once the appointment has been made, it will become effective at the next scheduled City Commission meeting, June 20th, 2023, and the term will expire in December of 2025.
Any additional information or questions may be obtained by contacting Lisa Lewis, City Clerk OR Brad Matkin, City Manager at 620-223-0550.
Glenn M. Post, 103, resident of Redfield, Kansas, passed away on Monday, June 5, 2023, at his home. He was born on June 2, 1920, in Redfield, Kansas, the son of Marion Melvin Post and Gladys Elizabeth (McHenry) Post.
Glenn was a WWII veteran and member of the V.F.W., a 60-year member of the Xenia Masonic Lodge, as well as the Grange.
Survivors include his daughter, Vickie Kay McWilliams, of Redfield; two sisters, Anna Ruth Bybee of Parsons, Kansas, and Natalie Comstock, of Fort Scott; three grandchildren, four great-grandchildren, and one great-great-grandchild. He was preceded in death by his parents, and a grandson, Robert Kerr.
Rev, Chub Bolling, Rev. Seth Bolling, and Tom Bradbury will officiate graveside services on Thursday, June 8, 2023, at 11:00 a.m. at the Marion (Paint Creek) Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.
Memorial contributions may be made to the Mirza Transportation Fund and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
Leta Ann Poore Welch, 82, of Fort Scott, peacefully passed away on June 3, 2023, to join her Lord and Savior. She was born on December 13, 1940, in Bronson, Kansas, to the late Paul and Pearlie Roberts Poore. Leta was preceded in death by her parents, Paul and Pearlie Poore, her beloved brothers Howard and Melvin Poore, her nephew Brian Shelton, and the love of her life, Jerry Welch.
Growing up in Bronson, Leta attended Bronson schools and cherished her hometown. She embodied love as a daughter, sister, mother, aunt, grandmother, and great-grandmother. Leta dedicated many years of her life working at the Western Insurance Company, Newman Young Clinic, and Key Industries. Her caring nature led her to employment at Tri-Valley Developmental Center and Care-4-U, where she found joy in taking care of others.
Leta is survived by her sister Martha (John) Shelton of Drexel, Missouri; her son Roger (Carolyn) Welch of Bronson, Kansas; her daughter DeAnn (Bill) Cambers of Walnut, Kansas; and her daughter Lisa (Ron) Gray of Olathe, Kansas. She leaves behind cherished grandchildren Ryan (Jonna) Mills of Fayetteville, Arkansas; Paul Welch of Fort Scott, Kansas; Bayley (Brett) Linn of Garnett, Kansas; Kelsey (Dalton) Bruns of Mound City, Kansas; Jordyn (Jon) of Spring Hill, Kansas; and Dane Cummings (Dani) of Girard, Kansas. Leta’s great-grandchildren, Isaac Mills and Kate Mills, Brynleigh and Barrett Linn, Sutton and Walker Bruns, Luke Cooper, and Remi Cummings, will forever carry her memory. Additionally, she is survived by numerous nieces, nephews, friends, and extended family members who will deeply miss her presence.
The family would like to express their heartfelt gratitude to the staff of Horton House for their exceptional love and care during her stay there.
Rev. Marty DeWitt will officiate graveside services to celebrate Leta’s life on Friday, June 9, 2023, at 10:30 a.m. at Uniontown Cemetery, under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
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The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present at the Garland Community Center.
David Klein, Raymond Kalm, Lester Waring, Ruth Waring, Shirley Colvin, Tammie Underwood, Rob Gray, Jeremiah Hill, Richard Cullison Jr., Kathy Crisp, Clint Walker, and Rachel Walker were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.
Clifton made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes the approval of minutes from last week’s meeting, approval of payroll totaling $327,284.67, and the approval of accounts payable totaling $780,170.75. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Matthew Wells, Mayor of the City of Fort Scott, asked the commission for a donation for the fireworks show that Fort Scott provides. Mr. Wells asked for the same amount that Bourbon County gives to Uniontown or any other town. Jim stated the Uniontown show is not paid for by the city, but by a private company. Jim said he appreciates the city stepping up to provide a fireworks display for our residents. Nelson stated he doesn’t believe that government funds should be involved and does not want to use taxpayer dollars in that manner. Clifton said to his knowledge Bourbon County hasn’t donated to a fireworks display before. Jim made a motion to donate $2500 to the City of Fort Scott for a fireworks display. The motion failed due to a lack of a second. Clifton made a motion to donate $500 to the City of Fort Scott and the City of Uniontown for a fireworks show from the PILOT funds. It was explained that the PILOT funds are revenues generated from the Jayhawk Wind project and are not taxpayer dollars. Jim seconded the motion, but Nelson opposed stating no county funds should go to fireworks. The motion passed 2-1. Jim said we are responsible for a better quality of life for our residents.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to allow for an executive session with Matthew Wells. Jim seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 7-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships to include all three Commissioners, Matthew Wells, and Justin Meeks. The executive session will be conducted in another room in the community center and the Commission will return at 5:46. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 5:46 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Dustin Hall, Assistant Public Works Director, gave an update stating they are redoing decking on the bridge at 60th and Arrowhead Road. Dustin said there have been 21 signs vandalized throughout the county. The laydown machine is currently waiting on a part, but they anticipate having the machine back this week. The crusher has been down due a programming issue, but the company will be here Wednesday to fix it. Jim asked if the price of oil was still ok, and Dustin said it is good right now.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to strike Eric’s executive session. Nelson seconded the motion, and all approved.
Tim Spehr submitted an application for a road closure on a portion of 260th Street south of Deer Road. Mr. Spehr stated he came before the Commission a few years ago and was told by the prior board no because re-opening a road could be a hassle. Mr. Spehr said the road is in bad shape and isn’t driveable. Jeremiah Hill voiced his concern and said he disagrees with closing the road. Mr. Hill said there was an agreement with the coal company who was to put the road back in good condition when they were done reclaiming. The Commissioners discussed the condition of the road as they all separately viewed the section of road that Mr. Spehr is wanting to close. Clifton said he takes in all input and if a motion is made today, he will abstain until he talks to all the landowners on 260th Street between Cavalry Road and Deer Road. Jim tabled the application for a few weeks to allow the Commission to speak to the area landowners and do more research. The County Clerk will contact Tim Spehr and Jeremiah Hill when the issue is placed back on the agenda.
Jeremiah Hill questioned the section of Eagle Road that is scheduled to be paved this year and asked why it was starting at the railroad tracks and going to the state line instead starting at the top of the hill. Dustin said they’ve discussed starting at the railroad tracks due to the budget, but if there are funds left, they may be able to tie in and asphalt to the hill.
Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, asked the Commission about the schedule for future evening meetings. There are currently meetings scheduled in Uniontown and Mapleton, and Jennifer stated if additional locations are wanted, she needs to reserve buildings and notify the public. The Commissioners decided to have a meeting in Hammond on June 19th.
Jim opened the meeting to public comments and stated if an identifiable individual is going to be discussed it would have to be done in executive session.
Vicki Shead stated the county has previously sprayed poisonous Hemlock and the area around 250th Street and Deer Road needs sprayed again. Mrs. Shead stated the Hemlock is very dangerous and can kill deer and cattle and she is concerned as there are kids who go fishing at the bridge where it is located.
Larry Shead thanked the county for quickly cleaning the graffiti on the metal bridge. Mr. Shead asked if the county would be mowing to the fences as they did last year, and Dustin replied in the fall they will try to make two passes while mowing.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to add an executive session. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy to discuss job performance and will include all three Commissioners, Dustin Hall, and Jeremiah Hill. The executive session will be conducted in another room in the community center and the Commission will return at 6:21. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to return to normal session at 6:21 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Richard Cullison Jr. and Raymond Kalm discussed Tweedy and Custard cemeteries and how they are not being mowed properly. Mr. Kalm said a lot of people come in for Memorial Day and the cemeteries need mowed especially then. Since the county does not mow the cemeteries the County Clerk will research who is on those cemetery boards and notify them of the mowing issues.
Nelson talked about how there are roads in the county that are not maintained, and employees not paid well, and the county has to stop spending money on things like fireworks and extra stuff. The recent $50,000 donation that Bourbon County made to Core Communities was brought up. Jim stated that the Meals on Wheels program and the Southeast Mental Health Clinic makes life better for Bourbon County residents and he will always vote to help the elderly. Jim said the $50,000 donation will help 50 families out of poverty and to think about how that will help the next generation, that we have to reach out and help them. Nelson asked about those who work for Bourbon County who make $13.00 an hour. Jim said the Sheriff’s Department, Jail, and Public Works have given raises and they need to work on the courthouse, but that we can’t abandon other people we need to make the county a better place to live. Clifton said the money given to Meals on Wheels and for the elderly is a good investment. Clifton stated they have lowered the levy 5 mills since he has been Commissioner and not raised taxes. Jim agreed they have lowered taxes and helped people.
Jim said he was contacted by the Fort Scott Tribune about not releasing minutes of the meetings before they are approved. Jim said it is up to the Commissioners, but he is ok as long as it is posted as un-official minutes. Clifton said he has been misquoted in the minutes before and Nelson agreed and said if he sees something wrong, he will want it corrected. Justin explained that the notes the County Clerk takes during the meeting are KORA discoverable. Jason Silvers, with the Fort Scott Tribune, said if they report something from unofficial minutes, they report it as such. A comment from a previous article regarding the meetings outside of the courthouse was discussed. Jim said it was questioned if the Commission wanted to please five people in person or 200 who watch on livestream. The residents in attendance were asked if they liked having meetings come to the smaller communities in the county, and they responded yes. Clifton said that the meetings don’t have to be livestreamed and Jim explained that started during COVID when the courthouse was closed, and residents were unable to attend meetings. Clifton stated a lot of counties are stopping the livestream of their meetings. Justin stated that for the whole time he was county counselor people have been asking for night meetings.
Jim gave an update on the Elm Creek dam project stating Eric Bailey has been in contact with engineers and contractors to set up meetings. Clifton suggested if anybody knows of contractors to have them contact the Commission to go look at the dam. Jim said they want four or five contractors to look at the dam and will need an engineer if it goes to the grant process.
Clifton asked those in attendance if they would like the meetings to come out in the community more often and they responded yes and they would like more notice. Clifton said he would love to have more people come to the meetings.
Clifton made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 6:43. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session for a special meeting with Jim Harris and Clifton Beth attending via phone and the County Clerk and the County Counselor present.
Brian Allen and Matt Quick attended the entire meeting.
Jim Harris called the meeting to order.
Jim made a motion to allow two or more of the Bourbon County Commissioners to attend the City of Fort Scott Commission meeting tonight at 6:00 p.m. for economic development with no action being taken by the county. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.
Jim made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 9:31. Clifton seconded and all approved.
Governor Kelly Announces Kansas Awarded Third Consecutive Gold Shovel for
Historic Economic Development
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced today that for the third straight year, Kansas has won Area Development magazine’s coveted Gold Shovel Award. The back-to-back-to-back accolade has no precedent in state history and reflects three consecutive years of record-setting private-sector investment.
“Every day, my administration works to grow the economy so there are better opportunities for Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This award shows that our work is paying off, and as a result, more Kansans have good-paying jobs with which they can support their families and contribute to their communities.”
Kansas was recognized for its achievement in attracting high-value investment projects that will create a significant number of new jobs throughout the state. Five states were awarded the prestigious Gold Shovel in their respective population categories, with Kansas at the top of the list of states with fewer than 3 million residents.
Panasonic Energy’s $4 billion electric vehicle (EV) battery plant in De Soto was the largest capital expenditure in 2022, but it wasn’t the only one. There were 272 projects across the state totaling almost $7.4 billion in private-sector investment and nearly 13,400 jobs created or retained.
“Governor Kelly’s commitment to bring prosperity to communities across the state is being fulfilled by home-grown businesses and companies from around the world,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “A third straight Gold Shovel confirms our strategic plan for economic development is working.”
That strategic plan, the Kansas Framework for Growth, was unveiled by Governor Kelly in early 2021. Through the work of thousands of Kansans from the public and private sectors, the plan emphasizes:
Talent development and retention
Working with higher education institutions on job and business creation
Innovation as a driver of opportunity
Community assets and regional approaches
Long-term growth policies
Target business sectors
Almost 90% of the successes announced since the beginning of the Kelly administration came from one of the five target sectors. Over that time, Kansas has attracted more than $16.2 billion in private-sector investment and created or retained more than 57,000 jobs.
Area Development Magazine is a publication for economic development executives covering corporate site selection and relocation.
Free COVID-19 Tests Still Available for All Kansas Communities Through June 2023.
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) today announced a change to the Project Access COVID Tests program (Project ACT), allowing all Kansas households to request free, at-home COVID-19 tests through June 15, 2023. Residents are encouraged to order additional free tests while supplies last.
All Kansas households can order free COVID-19 tests through AccessCovidTests.org. Each household can place an order for 5 at-home COVID-19 test kits. Amazon will deliver the test kits directly to your house. Kansans who need more support to order tests may call 866-534-3463 (866-KDHEINF).
KDHE has already distributed 308,615 tests to Kansas families through Project ACT.
“The ending of the public health emergency is expected to change access to free testing, but our partnership with Project ACT helps us continue to ease access for households with limited access to health care,” said Joan Duve, M.D., state health officer. “Testing continues to help Kansans know whether to stay home or to seek treatment.”
Tom Robertson, 55, has been the Buck Run Community Center Recreation Director since May 2000.
Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.
His last day on the job is June 30 ,2023.
Robertson said he has served the Fort Scott community to the best of his ability, developing relationships with many community leaders, and representing the Fort Scott Recreation Commission and BRCC with “high moral values and leadership.”
“Th best part of my job was to improve the quality of life for the Fort Scott families,” he said. “Dealing with all ages that want to be active, serving the community through offering of programs, events or facilities.”
The biggest challenges of his job?
“Finding quality, responsible volunteers and staff to carry out the programs that we offer,” he said. “And staying within a restricted budget.” Also working evening, weekends and holiday hours, ” when the patrons want to be active.”
Thinking back over the 23 years he feels his accomplishments are:
Working to not increase the mill levy, a tax.
Helping organize “Pennies in the Park” with the Youth Activity Team and also three concerts that featured Country singers Jason Aldean and Luke Bryan. All money raised went to providing a sand volleyball court, outdoor basketball court, lighting at two ball fields, a walking trail at Ellis Park.
Hosting various district and state Cal Ripken and Babe Ruth baseball tournaments.
Helping to secure a half-cent 10 year sales tax to build an additional phase to Buck Run Community Center and the renovation of the Fort Scott Aquatic Center.
Hosting community events: Corporate Olympics, corn hole and pickle ball tournaments, as well as others.
Renovating unused tennis courts to four lighted outdoor pickleball courts.
Serving on the Gunn Park Committee that hosted many Christmas in the Park events as well as Independence Day, Halloween and other holiday activities in the park.
There have been many changes in the Buck Run Community Center in his tenure:
The new phase of the center that included a fitness center, locker rooms, racketball court, additional office and lobby space in 2012.
The renovation of the center’s kitchen in 2020.
The renovation of the youth dance studio upstairs in 2020.
New services introduced in his tenure:
Youth indoor soccer, pickleball tournaments and open play, co-sponsored camps with the Fort Scott High School, corn hole leagues and tournaments.
An annual fundraiser for Adopt a Family, that included garage sales, corn hole tourneys and middle school dances.
The Biggest Loser Weight Loss Competitions for the community to become more health conscience.
Robertson has big plans for his retirement.
“I’m getting married the first day of retirement, July 1,” he said. “To Becky Colding from Chanute. She will be moving to Fort Scott. She has accepted the job of administrative assistant for the Bourbon County Public Works Department.”
He plans on staying active but also spending time with his family.
“I want to find a job that is rewarding but not stressful,” he said. “(And) being the best dad, grandpa, husband, son, brother and friend I can be.”
About the Fort Scott Recreation Commission
All employees of FSRC work for U.S.D. # 234, that levies taxes. The city of Fort Scott has contracted the FSRC to manage Buck Run Community Center. The FSRC has their own budget and board.
The mission of the Fort Scott Recreation Commission is to promote the development of a healthy and productive life for the citizens who reside in the USD #234 School District through broad based recreational opportunities, according to its Facebook page.
The Fort Scott Recreation Commission has a board consisting of five members serving three or four terms. These are non compensated positions. Tammy Hill is the chairperson, board membersare Adam Lancaster, Stewart Gulager, Mike Chipman and Susan Marbery.
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by The Lavender Patch Farm, Thursday, June 8th at 8 a.m., 2376 Locust Road.
Owners Davin and Betsy Reichard will be promoting the 6th Annual Lavender Fest which is planned for next Saturday, June 17th from 9 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. The Trolley will will provide complimentary transportation to and from the festival this Saturday, leaving from the Chamber of Commerce, on the hour starting at 9 a.m. and returning from The Lavender Patch on the half-hour with the last departure back to the Chamber at 2:30 p.m.
Festival activities will include tours of the lavender, lavender craft demonstrations, live music, games, children’s activities, an opportunity to buy lunch of Herb de Provence pulled pork sandwiches and lavender lemonade and visiting the gift shop. In addition, there will be lavender plants for sale at the festival. Admission is $5 for 13 years or older.
The Lavender Patch and its gift shop are open Thursday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the month of June and Friday through Monday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the month of July. The farm and gift shop is also open by appointment. More information about the business, events and schedules may be found on their Facebook page or website, www.thelavenderpatchfarm.com.
Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the business or organization hosting the Coffee. Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.
Defaulting on our National Debt in no way Benefits Kansans or Americans
Reckless spending can be the demise of our country’s well-being and endless deficit spending will eliminate the American dream for our children and grandchildren. The Fiscal Responsibility Act is not legislation I would introduce. However, no deal is not a solution, and defaulting on the national debt in no way benefits Kansans or Americans.
Defaulting on our debt would send a message to the world that we are a nation that cannot be trusted to pay our bills. China is watching our ability to govern and would like nothing more than for our standing in the world to be damaged due to default. It is vital to our economy and our national security that we do not default and we preserve the dollar as the world’s primary reserve currency. Governing in a divided government is challenging. It requires negotiation and finding common ground. Unfortunately, President Biden refused to negotiate with House Republicans for months in an effort to intimidate Republicans and pass an unaltered debt increase. This would have opened the door for the Democratic majority to spend even more with no strings attached.
The debt-ceiling agreement does accomplish key conservative priorities that will benefit America and help put our nation on a better path towards fiscal responsibility. This legislation will slow the rate of spending through implementing non-defense caps, cutting COVID-19 relief funds, blocking new tax hikes, slashing billions in funding to the IRS, adding new work requirements for SNAP and promoting American energy production. Additionally, we must fulfill the most important responsibility of the federal government: to protect and defend our country and to keep our promise to the men and women who served our country. The debt-ceiling deal delivers on our commitment to support our veterans. The deal also secures the full funding for toxic-exposed veterans as authorized by the recently passed PACT Act.
Raising the debt limit is not something I or any of my colleagues should take lightly. The debate cannot end with President Biden signing the Fiscal Responsibility Act into law. Congress should not have to wait for a crisis or the debt ceiling to consider fiscally responsible measures. The federal government must spend less, set limits and stop waste. This should become the norm for every Member of Congress and the President. Without a serious long-term plan and subsequent action to reduce spending, we will be back in this position way too soon and will jeopardize the American dream. We must confront this threat head on and – using the debt-ceiling deal as a blueprint – develop a more fiscally responsible legislative agenda.
You can watch my full remarks on the debt ceiling agreement here.
Introducing Legislation to Support Aviation Safety & Accessibility
This week, as lead Republican of the Commerce Aviation Subcommittee, I introduced the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials and Safety Act with Commerce Committee Chair Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Wash.). In 2004, the FAA established the Joint Center of Excellence for Advanced Materials, formed by the collaborative efforts of Wichita State University and the University of Washington. This legislation broadens the scope of research conducted at the Centers of Excellence to include testing for accessible air travel for people with disabilities, such as in-cabin wheelchair users and passengers with mobility challenges, as well as increases federal resources for the consortium to accommodate additional research capabilities.
Our universities are necessary partners and pivotal contributors to aviation safety research. As the aviation industry continues to evolve, we need to make certain our research partners can continue identifying solutions for advanced structures and materials issues, while meeting the demands of a changing ecosystem to ensure that any passenger who chooses to fly can do so and in a safe manner. I am pleased this legislation will continue to support and invest in the important work conducted at Wichita State University.
VA Deputy Secretary Nominee Testifies before Senate VA Committee As lead Republican of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, I led a hearing this week to consider the nomination of the current Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Chief of Staff Tanya Bradsher to be the next Deputy Secretary of the VA. The Deputy Secretary position, often described as the Chief Operating Officer of the department, was left vacant when Donald Remy resigned on April 1.
If confirmed by the Senate, Ms. Bradsher would direct organization and policy for the Veterans Health Administration, the Veterans Benefits Administration and the National Cemetery Administration while also carrying primary responsibility for the rollout of the new Oracle Cerner Electronic Health Record across the VA health care system.
Ms. Bradsher is a combat veteran and Bronze Star recipient who served for 20 years in the United States Army. I appreciated meeting Ms. Bradsher and her family at the hearing and the opportunity to hear her testimony about her priorities for the VA if confirmed to this important role.
Defense Appropriations Hearing on National Guard & Reserve Budget
This week, the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing with the National Guard and Reserve Service Chiefs regarding the FY2024 Guard and Reserves budget. Our Guard and Reserves are called upon to meet the needs of both the nation and their local communities. Ensuring they are properly manned, equipped and trained is a top priority for me.
During the hearing, I asked General Hokanson, the Chief of the National Guard Bureau, for his best military advice on the establishment of the Space National Guard and its associated costs. I want to make sure the Space Force has the necessary reserve forces to achieve success, while also focusing on cost-effectiveness and operational efficiency during the transition from the Air National Guard to the Space Force reserve element. Of all the potential options, the Space National Guard meets this intent.
Additionally, I sought insights from Lieutenant General Daniels, the Chief of the Army Reserve, regarding the significance of the National Guard and Reserve Equipment Account for the US Army Reserve’s ability to meet its requirements. This annual appropriation plays a crucial role in facilitating equipment modernization for the National Guard and all other Reserve Components. Without adequate modernization, their readiness to defend our nation abroad would be compromised.
The National Guard and Reserve Components hold a critical and unique position in safeguarding our nation’s security. However, without the necessary resources and support from Congress, they would encounter difficulties in meeting the needs of their troops and fulfilling their missions. To address this, I will continue advocating for proportional and concurrent allocation of resources for our Guard and Reserve Components. I am deeply grateful for the men and women who have chosen to serve our nation in their local communities and their dedication deserves our unwavering support.
Senate Votes to Repeal Biden’s Student Loan Forgiveness Plan On Wednesday, I voted in favor of a resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the Biden administration’s decision to forgive federal student loan debt. The decision to forgive federal student loan debt is an overreach of executive power, circumvents the authority of Congress and the Supreme Court is currently reviewing its constitutionality after hearing oral arguments this past spring.
According to the Congressional Budget Office, President Biden’s student loan cancellation plan is estimated to cost taxpayers $400 billion. The student loan cancellation program reflects unprecedented executive overreach by ignoring the fiscal powers vested exclusively in Congress. Where the President has failed in his duty to faithfully execute the law, it is the province and duty of Congress to remind him of that obligation.
Meeting with Kansans John Leslie, KSU & State Department Fellow
On Wednesday, I met with John Leslie, PhD, a Kansas State University distinguished professor of plant pathology, who is currently serving as a Jefferson Science Fellow at the U.S. Department of State’s Office of Global Food Security in Washington, D.C. We discussed the challenges with global food security and how U.S. agricultural innovations and technologies can help to bridge the gap with food systems in challenged nations. I appreciate his time and insight into the important work being done to feed a hungry world.
Norton Junior High School
I enjoyed the chance to visit with students, parents and faculty from Norton Junior High School during their trip to Washington, D.C. this week. We discussed the importance of public service and how vital it is to be an active, engaged member of one’s community. Thank you to Coach Lucas Melvin and this great group of students for taking the time to visit.
David & Julie Pope of Topeka
It was great to catch up with David and Julie Pope of Topeka on Wednesday before their tour of the U.S. Capitol. During our conversation, I appreciated hearing an update from David on water issues in Kansas and his work in this area.
Michael, Anne & Joseph Perryman of Lawrence
Thank you to Michael Perryman and his children Anne and Joseph for taking a few minutes to speak with me this week during their visit to my Washington, D.C. office. I always appreciate the opportunity to visit with Kansans during their trips to the nation’s capital.
Update from Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations
On Thursday, I hosted the Deputy Director General of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations Deputy Director-General Beth Bechdol to hear an update on global food security efforts. Director Bechdol spoke about the global food security challenges around the world, with nearly 258 million people in need of emergency food aid. One of the major challenges we discussed is the need to shift and transform aid to provide global farmers and ranchers with new tools and technical assistance for agricultural development and resiliency. As Co-Chair of the Senate Hunger Caucus, I am committed to working to find ways to bridge these gaps.
Meeting with Chief of National Guard Bureau On Wednesday, I met with General Daniel Hokanson, the Chief of National Guard Bureau, to discuss the needs and priorities of the Guard. General Hokanson and his team effectively represent the interests of more than 430,000 guardsmen and women across all states and territories within the highest levels of the Department of Defense (DoD). However, the existing rank disparity for General Hokanson’s Vice Chief limits its ability to advocate for soldiers and airmen at the same level and with equal authority as the sister services. I am committed to collaborating with the DoD to address this bureaucratic issue and make certain the Guard’s voice is heard equally.
We also addressed the Guard’s recruitment efforts and its positive results despite the broader recruiting challenges faced by the military. The Army National Guard is projected to meet its recruiting goals, while the Air National Guard is expected to achieve nearly 97% of its target. This success speaks to the Guard’s impact on our communities and its appeal to young men and women.
Additionally, I expressed my support for extending the DoD STARBASE program in Kansas, especially to rural communities. General Hokanson emphasized the program’s positive influence in engaging young minds and fostering interest in STEM. It is crucial to make certain that children have access to the resources necessary for them to achieve success right here in Kansas. I look forward to continuing to partner with General Hokanson to further achieve this goal for our state.
As a steadfast advocate for our servicemembers, I will continue to fight for the resources and support needed to address the Guard’s priorities and to support its critical role in national security and our communities. The Kansas Guard plays an important role, and I am dedicated to making certain that both the Kansas Guard and members of the Guard nationwide have the necessary tools for success.
Speaking at 104th Annual Kansas American Legion State Convention
It was a great crowd at the 104th Annual Kansas American Legion Convention in Topeka on Saturday morning. It is always an honor to address this group and to recognize their service to our nation.
Now Accepting Fall 2023 Internship Applications My own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works. I am glad to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today, where I have interns working year-round with my staff to serve Kansans.
Applications for internships in my Washington, D.C. and Kansas offices for the fall 2023 session are due on Sunday, July 16. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence. Click here for more information and to apply.
Now Accepting Fall 2023 Page Program Applications
Senate pages play an important role in day-to-day operations of the United States Senate. High school students who are selected for and participate in the Senate Page Program are afforded a unique opportunity to work in the Senate and learn about Congress and the legislative process while maintaining their regular coursework. The Senate Page Program is administered by the Sergeant-at-Arms, the Secretary of the Senate and the party secretaries.
During the fall session, Senate pages attend school in the morning and work while the Senate is in session. Fall page eligibility is limited to juniors in high school who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. The deadline to apply for the Fall 2023 Page Program is Sunday, June 25. Click here for more information and to apply.
Now Accepting 2023 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2028. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, September 1, 2023. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
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
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