Monthly Archives: February 2025

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

FSHS Principal Scott Kimble Chosen for Leadership For Tomorrow Class

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Scott Kimble from USD 234 Staff Directory.

The Kansas Association of School Boards recently announced its Leadership for Tomorrow (LFT) Class of 2025, according to a KASB press release.

Participants are nominated and then chosen through an application process that focuses on individual leadership in Kansas public education and participation in activities that promote effective governance and raise student achievement.

Scott Kimble, Fort Scott High School Principal was selected to participate in the leadership class.

The class gives board members, superintendents and administrators time to explore change theories and strategies, participate in leadership skill training and expand understanding of education and key issues for effective governance and raising student achievement, according to a press release. Through five two-day sessions, the class will visit local schools, hear classroom presentations and participate in class discussions of issues and challenges facing Kansas education.

“My participation in the KASB Leadership for Tomorrow class will greatly benefit our school district by enhancing my leadership skills and deepening my understanding of effective governance and educational policy,” Kimble said. “This program will provide valuable insights into best practices, innovative strategies, and emerging trends that can be applied to improve student achievement and district operations. Through collaboration with other educational leaders, I will gain new perspectives and ideas that can help us address challenges and implement meaningful changes. The knowledge and skills I develop will enable me to advocate more effectively for our students, staff, and community, ensuring that our district remains forward-thinking and student-centered. Ultimately, my participation will strengthen our district’s leadership capacity and contribute to a culture of continuous improvement.”

 

The KASB Leadership for Tomorrow Class of 2025 includes: 

  • Rex Boley, Blue Valley USD 384 Superintendent
  • Kristin Borrowman, Lyons USD 405 Building Leader
  • Ashley Bugbee, Oxford USD 358 Building Leader
  • Jordan Carlson, Washington USD 108 Building Leader
  • Leslianne Craft, Andover USD 385 Building Leader
  • Anne Costello, Lawrence USD 497 Board Member
  • Alec Gartner, KASB Staff
  • Dan Grundy, Columbus USD 493 Superintendent
  • Amy Jones, Nickerson-South Hutchinson USD 309 District Leader
  • Tyson Kendrick, Canton-Galva USD 419 Building Leader
  • Scott Kimble, Fort Scott USD 234 Building Leader
  • Gina Loomis, SPT Architecture KASB Partner
  • Jared Meitler, Rock Creek USD 323 Board Member
  • Liz Plunkett, Syracuse USD 494 Building Leader
  • Jennifer Reed, Haysville USD 261 District Leader
  • Chase Rietcheck, Ulysses USD 214 Building Leader
  • Heather Stapp, Colby USD 315 Building Leader
  • Megan Storey-Kupersmith, Osawatomie USD 367 District Leader
  • Melody Stuckey, Goddard USD 265 District Leader
  • Christy Weiler, Seaman USD 345 Board Member
The events schedule over the next year:

SESSION 1 Topeka KSHSAA Office and Seaman USD 345 on March 27- 28.

SESSION 2 Troy USD 429 and Easton-Pleasanton Ridge USD 449 on April 24-25.

SESSION  3 Herington USD 487 and Manhattan USD 383 on June 12-13.

SESSION 4 Ellsworth USD 327 and Russell USD 407on Sept. 4- 5.

 SESSION 5 Frontenac USD 249 and Fort Scott USD 234 on Oct. 2-3.

November 14-16, 2025: Wichita will be the class graduation, held during KASB Annual Conference.

Kimble’s Education and Experience
Kimble graduated from Derby High School and continued his education at Montana State Northern. After earning his degree he spent several years teaching in both Colorado and Oregon before returning to Kansas in 2003.
“I dedicated nine years to teaching at Buhler High School before transitioning into administration. With 15 years of classroom teaching experience and 12 years as an administrator, I have developed a deep commitment to education as the true equalizer in life. I believe every student deserves our very best, and I am passionate about empowering teachers to be great and make a lasting impact on their students.”
Opinion

A Little More Like Jesus by Patty LaRoche

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Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

 

 

My Sunday morning began with me grumbling, grumbling that ended when I walked into church.  There I shook hands with the greeters and smiled at the people in the pews around me.  Dave was not fooled. All of this started when our company left that morning, and let’s face it: some people are meant to be house guests, and others…well, they need lessons.

When they arrived a few days earlier, “Jim” wasn’t talking to “Helen.” That remained unchanged.  She catered to him, did everything to please him, but he clearly was irritated with her and refused to acknowledge her.  Jim loved his time with Dave and me, but his actions toward Helen left me asking her why she didn’t deserve even a little respect from him, that God did not make her a doormat. (The fact that they have dated for 15 years but never married affected the way I counseled her.)  Details don’t matter, but it was a long five days.

When they left, he announcing that they might come here and rent for a month, I gasped.  That was Helen’s chance to lay down the law and tell her “boyfriend” that things needed to change before she would spend 30 days with him.  (Actually, 30 minutes would have been too much for me.) That’s what led to my Sunday morning rant.

“You know what’s going to happen, Dave.  Jim will be at our house every day, hanging out, and I will need to babysit Helen who will be griping about Jim.  She won’t listen to my advice, so what am I to do?  30 days!  Do you realize how long that is?”  And with that, we drove to church.

 

No surprises here, but the sermon dealt with the use of our time.  The pastor cited about 20 scriptures addressing how life is short, and we are here for one purpose: to glorify God. Life is not about me and my desires to fill my time.  Our job is to be a disciple for Christ and to share our testimony with everyone we meet.  I guess “everyone” probably would include Jim (an atheist) and Helen (of Jewish lineage).

I was convicted.  In the 15 years we had been friends with this couple, we had not made a dent in how we represented what Christ had done in our lives.  They know we are Christians.  They have heard us pray before meals and have turned down our invitations to go to church with us, but they have not made any move to want what we have (except for the grumbling part).

Sunday’s pastor addressed all the ways we fail to do what we are called to do, and I met most of the requirements.  We should wake up with intentionality, seeking to introduce others to Jesus.  Instead, we wake up with our “to do” list beckoning to be met, or we seek social time that makes us happy.

On the drive home from church, I asked Dave if he had called the pastor and asked him to preach directly to me.  I told him that the sermon made me realize how selfish I am, how 30 days is nothing if I can show this couple the love of Christ and have opportunities to speak boldly about him.  Instead of Dave agreeing that I needed that message, he said that it was directed at him, that there are areas—he listed them—he needs to improve also.

Looks like we both are in need of a little more Jesus.  No, correction…a lot more Jesus.

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Ad: Radiant Massage with Natalie!

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Radiant Massage with Natalie is now open! This new addition to downtown Fort Scott is located inside Structure by Margo at 19 S National Ave, Fort Scott, KS (the bison mural building). Radiant Massage offers a serene escape for those seeking relief from pain, muscle tension, or stress. Every session pampers clients with complimentary hot towels, custom aromatherapy, an extra-large, deeply padded massage table, 100% Egyptian cotton linens, hypoallergenic oils, and refreshing spa water such as cucumber lemon.

Natalie Cable, the skillful massage therapist behind Radiant Massage, has a deep-rooted passion for helping clients find relief through the healing power of touch. Inspired by her family’s experiences with chronic pain and disabilities, she developed an interest in pain management and holistic wellness. She integrates massage therapy’s many benefits—including pain relief, stress reduction, improved circulation, enhanced flexibility, and better sleep—into customized care plans. Her commitment to wellness is woven into her personal history as well as her deep ties to Fort Scott and Bourbon County.

Her family’s connection to the area spans generations. Her grandparents, Charles and Willa Cable, dedicated their lives to serving the community—Willa as a nurse caring for the elderly and Charles at the Kansas Department for Children and Families in Fort Scott. Her parents, Bob and Lori Cable, who attended school in Uniontown and Fort Scott, returned to Bourbon County in 2017 and are actively involved in local organizations. Her mother, Lori, chairs the Institute for Evaluation and Research’s Institutional Review Board for ethics in research, while her father, Bob, manages their farm, Soul and Soil Acres, providing fresh eggs and produce.

Having lived in Fort Scott while attending college, Natalie built her own connection to the town and is thrilled to be back, continuing her family’s tradition of positively contributing to the community. Through Radiant Massage with Natalie, she brings her passion for wellness and love for Fort Scott together, offering compassionate, high-quality care.

Sessions are tailored to individual wellness goals, offering treatments including Swedish massage, trigger point therapy, deep tissue massage, chronic pain therapy, aromatherapy massage, hot stone massage, temperature contrast therapy, and serenity massage. With a commitment to personalized care and accessibility, there are no upcharges—every massage is priced the same, ensuring clients receive exactly what their body needs. Each session includes a complimentary 5-minute consultation to ensure the treatment is customized. Pricing is $35 for 30 minutes and $60 for 60 minutes, with a Newcomer’s Special offering $10 off the first session. In February, the Valentine’s Day Special adds extra pampering, as every massage includes a complimentary self-care kit, and gift cards are discounted—$5 off 30-minute sessions and $10 off 60-minute sessions.

Sessions are available Tuesday (11 AM – 6 PM), Wednesday (2 PM – 6 PM), Friday (11 AM – 6 PM), and Saturday (11 AM – 3 PM). Walk-ins are welcome, but booking in advance is recommended. For appointments or gift card purchases, visit www.radiantwithnatalie.com or text/call 469-264-6074. Experience the difference at Radiant Massage with Natalie—where relaxation meets rejuvenation!

Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott Feb. 27 Newsletter

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott! February 27th Weekly Newsletter

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are currently open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

Wednesday Writers at Hedgehog.Ink Book Store

Every Wednesday 1:30-3pm

Downtown Fort Scott, 16 S. Main St.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-4pm.

2/1-28 | Valentine’s Day “Ghost” Class

at The Artificer’s

2 hr private wheel throwing class as a couple.

$175/couple for minimum of 5 couples

$300/couple for private session

RSVP 913.574.7741

EVERY THURSDAY EVENING

STUDENT NIGHT AT FORT CINEMA

$5 tickets for all students Pre-K thru College

KOMB-FM ALL HIT 103.9 Radio Auction

Every Wednesday and Thursday

January 22nd – February 27th

Starting at 3pm

Get bidding and PIN #:

620-223-4500 or radioauction.kombfm.com

__________________________________

UPCOMING EVENTS

2/27 ~ 8am | Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting hosted by Care to Share Cancer Support Group

at their NEW location 9 E. Wall St.

2/27 ~ 9am-4pm | KS Small Business Development Center at the Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St.

Click HERE to set up your appointment.

2/28 ~ | Soup Luncheon hosted by First United Methodist Church

Times TBD

Questions call the church office at 620-223-1950

2/28-3/1 ~ | 9th Annual Prairie Troubadour Catholic Symposium

Click HERE for schedule & more details

3/1 ~ 7pm | FSHS After Prom Puzzle Night

$125/ team of 5 (includes Frito Chili Pies)

proceeds to FSHS After Prom

Prizes: 1st $125 | 2nd $75 | 3rd $50

public welcome to join & observe the fun!

$7 Frito Chili pies

To register Contact Jannah Farrington

620-768-9514

3/1 ~ 10:30am-12pm | Care to Share Cancer Support Group Meeting

light refreshments and conversation

New Care to Share office, 9 E. Wall St.

3/1 ~ 8-11am | FSCC Non-Credit CPR Class

$65

FSCC campus

(lower level of Dick Hedges Admin Bldg. Room E-112)

To register: Email [email protected]

or call 620-223-2700 x3510

3/1 ~ 2pm | Emmerson Cattle Co

Spring Bid-Off Bull Sale

2617 Range Rd., Fort Scott, KS

Contact:

John 620-215-2965 | Brent 620-232-4671

Click HERE for the Facebook event page!

Click HERE for their Facebook page!

3/1-2 ~ | 1st Day of OPEN RANGE for the Season at the Hollister Wildlife Area

Saturday, March 1st | 11am-4pm

Sunday, March 2nd | 1-5pm

3/6-15 ~ | 33rd Annual Fine Arts Exhibit by The Bourbon County Arts Council

Ellis Fine Arts Center at FSCC, 2108 Horton St.

Schedule:

March 6th Chamber Coffee | 8am

March 6th Artist Reception | 6pm-8pm

Public Welcome. Light Refreshments Served.

Exhibit Open:

Mon-Fri, 12-7pm – March 6th, 7th, & 10-14th

Sat., 9am-1pm – March 8th & 15th

Click HERE for the Facebook event page!

3/6 ~ 8am | Chamber Coffee hosted by

The Bourbon County Arts Council

3/7-9 ~ | 46th Annual FSCC Spring College Rodeo

at FSCC Arnold Arena

 Schedule:

Friday, March 7 – 7:30 PM

Saturday, March 8 – 1:30 PM & 7:30 PM

Sunday, March 9 (Short Go) – 1:00 PM

 Admission:

Adults: $12

FSCC Students w/ ID: $5

Children (Ages 6-12): $5

Children (5 & Under): FREE

Check out the NIRA standings & more HERE

3/7-8 ~ | Fort Scott Downtown & Around

Spring Open House Shopping Event!

Shop $5 minimum at 3+  stores for a chance to win

$50 Chamber Bucks!

Participating Stores:

🛍️ 110 South Main Mercantile, 110 S. Main St.

🛍️ Angie Dawn’s Boutique, 108 Scott Ave., Ste. B

🛍️ Barbed Wire & Roses Vintage Market, 18 N. Main St.

🛍️ Be The Light Boutique, 12 N. Main St.

🛍️ Bids & Dibs, 108 Scott Ave., Ste. C

🛍️ Hedgehog.Ink!, 16 S. Main St.

🛍️ Iron Star Antiques & Such, 3 N. Main St.

🛍️ Laree + Co., 3 S. National Ave.

🛍️ Main St. Vintage & Co., 23 S. Main St.

🛍️ Shirt Shack, 11 E. 18th St.

Click HERE for the Facebook Event Page!

3/7 ~ 6-8pm | 4th Annual Dress up Barbie Tea Party by the Museum of Creativity

102 S. National Ave.

Come “in style” and celebrate Barbie’s 66th birthday at the Dress Up Tea Party

Barbie Fan Ticket:$20

Fan Chaperone Ticket $10

Click HERE to order tickets!

Contact Lorina Bowman 209-204-9743 or [email protected]

3/7 ~ 6-9pm | First Friday’s at The Artificers

8 N National Ave.

Stop by to browse art, have some light refreshments, and enjoy good conversation!

3/8 ~ 9-10am | Par-Tee Girls Ladies’ Golf League Sign-up

Woodland Hills Golf Course

2414 Horton St.

Contact Diane Striler, [email protected]

3/8 ~ 10:30-12:30pm | Coffee & Clay at The Artificers

8 N. National Ave.

$40/each (limited to 15 spots)

Click HERE to sign up!

3/9 ~ 11am | Planting Event

hosted by Sunshine Boutique

18 E. Wall St.

$40 per ticket

RSVP and $20 deposit required

VENMO: @RCREOL13

or sign up in store! 620-223-6007

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here 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

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!
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.
…
Government, Kansas

District court public access portal domain to change to .gov March 1

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District court public access portal domain to change to .gov March 1

TOPEKA—The Kansas District Court Public Access Portal will be offline from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, March 1, for a domain change from .org to .gov.

 

People who use the portal are encouraged to update their bookmarks after the domain change is complete.

 

The change is one of the final steps in a project to move all judicial branch websites, portals, and email from .org to .gov. An informational webpage describes the project—KSCourts is going .gov.

 

Portal used to search district court case information

 

The portal allows anyone anywhere to search most Kansas district court case information online. The service was created through the Kansas eCourt case management system project to consolidate case data on a single, web-based platform.

 

Benefits of .gov domain

The federal government controls who can get a .gov domain, which is one reason a .gov domain is desirable. It clearly communicates the Kansas judicial branch is a government entity. But there are benefits beyond credibility.

Dot gov domains must follow certain rules that contribute to a more secure environment for all government websites. By following domain security best practices, users are assured a safer visitor experience.

Other benefits of a .gov domain are described on the federal website get.gov.

Kansas Judicial Branch

Office of Judicial Administration

301 SW 10th Avenue

Topeka, KS 66612-1507

785-296-2256

kscourts.gov

Government, Kansas

KANSASWORKS Hosts Manufacturing and Aerospace Job Fair

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers interested in Manufacturing, Aviation and Aerospace to take advantage of March’s Virtual Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 5.

“Kansans are builders and doers, and nothing demonstrates this more than our strong and robust manufacturing industry across the state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Kansas’ outstanding manufacturing and aerospace employers are looking for skilled talent to join their ranks across every region of our state — don’t miss this opportunity to connect and explore the high-growth professions here in Kansas.”

The virtual job fair allows for anyone searching for a new position to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

The Virtual Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as employers may request to engage in a video interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodation by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event.

Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About the KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

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Freeman Fort Scott Hospital

Freeman Health System In Fort Scott Issues Board Appointments

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Jay Leek, Don Doherty, Paula Baker
Jay Leek,  Michael Zafuta, Don Doherty, Paula Baker, Greg Motley and Lindsay Madison were announced today as the Freeman Health System Board of Directors at Fort Scott.

Six Named to New Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. Board of Directors 

                                     

FORT SCOTT, Kan. – Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc. has formally appointed an inaugural board of directors, a significant milestone in developing the new Bourbon County-based hospital to best serve its residents and the surrounding communities.

The six-member board, representing multiple businesses and professions, includes:

  • Paula Baker, Freeman Health System President and Chief Executive Officer
  • Dr. Michael Zafuta, Freeman orthopedic surgeon
  • Don Doherty, Financial Advisor with Northwestern Mutual
  • Lindsay Madison, President and Chief Executive Officer of Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
  • Jay Leek, Chief Financial Officer at Beachner Companies of Fort Scott
  • Gregg Motley of Fort Scott

 

Doherty has been elected Board Chairman. The governing body will oversee the new hospital’s operations, financial health, quality of care, and overall direction – ensuring everything aligns with the community’s needs.

“When I was asked about considering being a board member, I had to really take time to consider this honor. However, I really want this hospital and emergency room to be here long after I am gone from this life,” Doherty said. “People should not have to fear where they will take their kids, elderly parents, themselves, or anyone in the event medical care is needed.”

The other members of the board, he added, “are really good, smart, professional, and honest people in my opinion. I am fortunate to serve with them.”

Until the new Freeman hospital was announced in June, 2024, Fort Scott had been without a hospital since 2018. The hospital’s attached emergency department managed to stay open until it, too, closed in late 2023, forcing local residents to seek medical treatment in communities 30-plus minutes away.

“I saw and heard the fear from people,” Doherty said, describing the mood of the community’s 7,600 residents when the former hospital at 401 Woodland Hills Blvd. closed its doors for good. “Many considered moving away. Some did move away. Everyone experienced some type of fear for either themselves or others.”

Immediately after Freeman’s Paula Baker announced the establishment of a 10-bed acute care hospital and 24-hour, six-bay emergency department in Fort Scott, deep worries from a vast majority of city and rural residents evaporated almost immediately, Doherty said. In fact, after the public announcement was made for the new hospital, Baker was surrounded by overjoyed Fort Scott residents, some of them wiping away tears.

“From individuals to schools to businesses, everyone is more peaceful now,” Doherty said.

Renovations are now underway and Freeman officials are currently in the process of preparing for licensure surveys. The hospital is expected to open this spring. The health system – Southwest Missouri’s largest employer – will lease the space from Kansas Renewal Institute, which purchased the former hospital building located in south Fort Scott.

“My goal (as board chairman) is to listen to what the community is saying, to discuss it in an accurate and honest approach to Freeman officials, and to help get the best outcome possible for a hospital and emergency room established in our community,” Doherty said.

 

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About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. In 2024, Freeman earned dozens of individual awards for medical excellence and patient safety from CareChex®, a quality rating system that helps consumers evaluate healthcare providers and their experiences. U.S. News & World Report named Freeman Health System one of the Best Hospitals for 2022. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopaedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.

Church news, Fort Scott, Youth

Keyhole Officially Closes: Building is For Sale

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The Keyhole, 1002 S. Main, is for sale.

Keyhole Youth Ministries is officially closed.

“The Keyhole has been falling short of its intended purpose for some time now,” said Nick Sprague, a board member. “The funding provided by Key Industries has been withdrawn. From my understanding, the Keyhole was a valuable component of this community for many years and actively engaged in ministry to the youth of Bourbon County.”

“However, in the past two years, the youth of Bourbon County have shifted their preferences from physical gatherings to online interactions and participation in sports and activities. While these changes are not necessarily negative, they reflect a shift in our culture and community.”

“The most productive aspect of the Keyhole over the past two years has been renting out the facility to families and groups on a regular basis. The building’s size and prime location make it unsuitable for solely serving as a rental facility.”

“The Keyhole served as a safe haven for the youth of Bourbon County, fostering a sense of belonging and providing a personal space for teenagers,” he said. The name ‘Keyhole’ referred to the building operated by Bourbon County Youth Ministries, which received funding from Key Industries and various churches and organizations throughout its history.”

“The building will be sold. Bourbon County Youth Ministries, the current owner, will transfer ownership to another youth-focused organization, business, or community entity. The proceeds from the sale will not be retained by the organization; instead, the board is deliberating on the most suitable recipient for the funds, with the intention of reinvesting them within the community. This may involve supporting Key Industries or other organizations.”

 

In December 2024, the Bourbon County Youth Ministries Board of Directors voted to close the Keyhole. The voting members of the Board are Sprague,  Ryan Goodbody, Amber Goodbody, and Janelle Tate.

 

“As a non-profit organization, we will donate items (in the building) to families in need or other local non-profit organizations. Bourbon County Youth Ministries will not retain any of the donated items; instead, they will either be sold with the building or donated to another organization.”

 

” I would like to express my personal sadness at the closure of the Keyhole,” Sprague said. “However, I am also confident that the community has great opportunities ahead. Our teenagers are an invaluable and essential component of our community, and I sincerely hope that someone with the necessary time and vision will establish a space for them.”

“Furthermore, it is prudent to acknowledge and celebrate the legacy of the Keyhole. Its longstanding history of serving our community is truly remarkable. I want to honor and recognize all the individuals who have dedicated their time and energy to the Keyhole, whether they were the founders or those who dedicated many years to its operation.”

“The Keyhole’s era has come to an end, and I am eager to witness and ready to participate in the community’s future endeavors,” he said.

Nick Sprague is youth pastor at Fort Scott church of the Nazarene
The Keyhole building is located across from Fort Scott High School at 10th and Main Streets.
Bourbon County, Youth

West Bourbon Elementary School – Uniontown Kindergarten Roundup Coming in March

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A screening clinic for 2025-2026 kindergarten students has been scheduled for Monday, March 24 at West Bourbon Elementary. To be eligible for kindergarten, your child must be 5 years old on or before August 31, 2025.

Students who will be new to WBE will sign up for a 30 minute slot to be assessed on March 24. Please bring in your child’s birth certificate and immunization record. The agenda for the child will include kindergarten skills assessment, vision, hearing, speech, and checking health records.

Kindergarten children are required to have a physical exam within 12 months of beginning school and have all current immunizations. The Girard Medical Center is available for immunizations and physicals; if you would like to contact them for a coinciding appointment call 620-756-4111.

Due to the screenings, there will be no Kindergarten class on March 24th.

For the best testing environment for your child, we ask that you not bring brothers or sisters.

To set up a time for screening and assessment, please call the school at 620-224-2350, option 1, or visit https://tinyurl.com/2025WBEK-Roundup.

Area News, Bourbon County, Government

On March 5 KCC Holds Hearings On Evergy’s Request to Recover Costs

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KCC schedules public hearing and comment period on Evergy’s
request to recover costs for new gas plants and solar facility

TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) has scheduled a virtual public hearing beginning at 6 p.m. on March 5th to provide Evergy Kansas customers across the state with information about three proposed new generation investments (two combined cycle gas-fired generating turbine plants and one solar facility). One gas plant would be located near Evergy’s Viola Substation in Sumner County and the second near Hutchinson in Reno County. The Kansas Sky solar facility would be located in Douglas County. The Commission will also provide an opportunity for public comments during the hearing.

Evergy filed an application with the KCC requesting a predetermination of the prudency of the investments and whether the company would be entitled to recover the costs of the investments and under what terms. Evergy has asked to recover the cost of construction work in progress (CWIP) and in a future rate proceeding will ask for recovery of the investments after they are in service, which is expected at the end of 2026 for the solar facility and 2029 and 2030 for the gas plants.

To participate in the virtual hearing via Zoom and make a public comment, advance registration is required by noon on March 4. For persons wishing to watch, but not comment during the public hearing, a live video stream will be available on the YouTube channel. The hearing will also be recorded for later viewing.

In addition to the hearing, the Commission will accept written comments through 5 p.m. on April 7. Comments may be submitted online, by mail or by calling the KCC at 785-271-3140 or 800-662-0027.

To register for the virtual hearing, make a public comment online or find additional information on the application, go to the Commission’s website (www.kcc.ks.gov) and click on the “Your Opinion Matters” tab.

The Commission will issue an order on the application on or before July 7, 2025.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Care to Share Hosts Chamber Coffee on February 27

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Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

Care to Share

Cancer Support Group
4Thursday, February 27th

8am

In the NEW Care to Share location!

9 E. Wall St., Fort Scott

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting this Thursday, February 27th at 8am to celebrate the new location of Care to Share Cancer Support Group, The Sharing Bucket, 9 E. Wall St., in the Downtown Historic District. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served along with a door prize drawing.

Care to Share started in 2007 as a grassroots volunteer organization to support cancer survivors, their families, and caregivers. The organization hosts a quarterly cancer support group meeting; however, it serves cancer families daily providing financial and emotional support, meals, and gas vouchers or transportation to and from doctor appointments out of town. Care to Share serves Bourbon, Linn, and Crawford counties in Southeast Kansas.

This week’s Coffee will feature Care to Share’s new location where their office is open weekly Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 11am to 2pm. They now have a gift shop of cancer support items, and the location also features a wig room, a kitchen, and a boardroom. Care to Share is excited to host the community this week and is thankful to have all the on-site amenities to serve cancer patients and survivors in the area.

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.

Click HERE to view their Facebook Page

To support the Care to Share Cancer Support Group send payments to:

One-time at VENMO

@caretoshare-thesharingbucket

-OR-

Set up Recurring Donations by clicking HERE!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
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