State Offices in Topeka Will Be Closed Tomorrow

February 11, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Governor Kelly Orders State Office Buildings
in Shawnee County Closed Wednesday
Due to Inclement Weather

TOPEKA – Due to safety concerns regarding winter weather conditions resulting from the approaching winter storm, Governor Laura Kelly has issued a Declaration of Inclement Weather for Shawnee County, ordering state office buildings in Shawnee County to be closed on Wednesday, Feb. 12, 2025.

The declaration takes effect at 11:59 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 11, and lasts through 11:59 p.m. on Wednesday, Feb. 12. A reassessment of weather conditions will be made on Wednesday to determine if the declaration will be extended further.

“In anticipation of a winter storm impacting state operations, we are closing state office buildings in Shawnee County on Wednesday,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “As I have done in the past, I urge all Kansans to exercise increased caution when driving and to take measures to make sure their families are prepared for potentially hazardous winter storm conditions by making an emergency plan and a home emergency kit.”

This declaration applies to all non-essential state employees in the Executive Branch agencies under the Governor’s jurisdiction who work in Shawnee County. Appointing authorities in offices located outside Shawnee County have the option to declare Inclement Weather for those counties.

During the period of Inclement Weather, essential employees are required to report to work as normal. Benefits-eligible non-essential employees should record Inclement Weather Leave during the period of Inclement Weather. Remote work is not being required.

For continuously updated road information, go to www.KanDrive.org and click on the Road Condition map. Other construction information, camera views, weather websites and travel details are also available. You can also call 511 – for Kansas road condition information from anywhere in the U.S., call 1-866-511-KDOT (5368).

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Art, Fort Scott

Barr Creates Art From His Rural Home

February 11, 2025 Loretta George Leave a comment

Calvin “Joe” Barr creates pallet art from old pallets at his home at 1225 245th Street.

Joe and his wife Rita decorate their home for each season, including an American Flag, a large pumpkin, a snowman, and for St. Patrick’s Day.

He sent this one with a note to fortscott.biz.

Joe and Rita Barr’s home in Fort Scott with his Valentine to his wife. Submitted photo.

“At the end of this month, I will move the Valentine one and take it to the storage shed until next year and put up Saint Patrick’s for the month. I just finished the Saint Pats one this week. I made the Valentine in the last week of January, mainly for my bride of 60 years come this May 29^th if the good Lord is willing,” Barr said.

Calvin “Joe” and Rita Barr from his Facebook page.

Government, Kansas

KDHE Takes Lead on Youth Risk Behavior Survey for Kansas Highschoolers

February 11, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) announces that it will be responsible for administering the Youth Risk Behavior Survey (YRBS) across Kansas. The YRBS is a vital tool that gathers data on the health behaviors of high school students in Kansas. It provides essential insights into the challenges facing today’s youth and paves the way for programs and policies that promote their well-being.

First completed in 1990, the YRBS is a nationwide survey conducted every two years. Its purpose is to monitor specific behaviors that can significantly impact the health and safety of adolescents in Kansas.

“By understanding these behaviors, KDHE can work with school and community leaders to develop targeted interventions and programs to address the unique needs of Kansas youth,” said Grace Harvey, YRBS School Survey Coordinator, “Taking on the administration of the YRBS reflects our commitment to supporting Kansas youth and addressing the factors that impact their health and safety.”

For years, the YRBS in Kansas was overseen by the Kansas State Department of Education. Now, KDHE is honored to continue this critical work. This transition will enable KDHE to directly integrate survey findings into the state’s public health initiatives, ensuring a seamless connection between data and action.

The YRBS captures data on a variety of topics, including:

Nutrition, physical activity and weight status
Bullying
Mental health and suicide
Tobacco, alcohol and drug use
Sexual behaviors that could lead to STDs, HIV, or unintended pregnancy
Behaviors contributing to unintentional injuries or violence

The YRBS is currently conducted in 50 randomly selected high schools across the state, with students in grades 9-12 anonymously participating. To protect privacy, no personal identifiers are collected, and participation is voluntary. KDHE will work directly with the participating schools to get active parental consent from each participating student. Schools will work closely with a designated YRBS coordinator to ensure the process is smooth and minimally disruptive. Each survey takes just one class period to complete.

KDHE is looking forward to leading this important initiative and is committed to using the YRBS insights to improve the lives of Kansas youth. By working collaboratively with schools, parents and community partners, we can turn data into meaningful action, fostering a healthier and brighter future for the next generation.

To learn more, visit the KDHE website.

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Ad: Radiant Massage with Natalie!

February 11, 2025 Mark Shead Leave a comment

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!

Obituary

Obituary of Jean Russell

February 11, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Jean Russell, age 74, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Saturday, February 8, 2025, at her home. Leota Jean Russell was born September 9, 1950, in Ft. Scott, the daughter of Charles Gruver and Doris Hillman Gruver. Jean’s father passed away when she was very young and she was raised by her mother and stepfather, Floyd Camp.

Jean graduated from the Shawnee Mission West High School with the Class of 1968. She married Wayne Russell on August 17, 1968, in Lenexa, Kansas. Jean and Wayne lived most of their married life in Easton, Kansas. Jean was employed as a management analyst for the United States Government based out of Ft. Leavenworth. Following retirement, Jean and Wayne returned to Ft. Scott.

In her spare time, Jean enjoyed reading and coloring. She also loved to crochet. The many blankets she made for her children and grandchildren are cherished heirlooms.

Jean is survived by her husband of fifty-six years, Wayne Russell of the home; four children, Angela Mishler of Ft. Scott, Wayne “Tony” Russell (Dawn) of Easton, Kansas, Cindy Russell of Ft. Scott and Jesse Russell (Angie) of Liberty, Missouri; eight grandchildren, two step-grandchildren and fifteen great-grandchildren with one more on the way. Also surviving is a brother, Charles Gruver.

Jean was preceded in death by her parents and two sisters, Cheryl and Beth.

Rev. Connie Edgerton will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Friday, February 14^th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the St. Michael’s Cemetery in Fulton, Kansas.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Thursday at the Cheney Witt Chapel

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital and may be left in the care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports February 11

February 11, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

2-11-25-arrest

2-11-25-release

Bourbon County

County Lawsuit Conflict of Interest And Motions to Dismiss

February 11, 2025 Staff 1 Comment

BB-2024-CV-000075 is an ongoing lawsuit by all three members of the Board of Bourbon County Commissioners against the Board of Bourbon County Commissioners. The Commissioners are joined on the plaintiff side by six citizens and on the defendant side by four solar companies.

Jennifer Hill, the lawyer representing the Bourbon County Commissioners on the Defendant side of the lawsuit, filed a motion to withdraw as counsel because “the fact that since the filing of this lawsuit, the Board of County Commissioners of Bourbon County, Kansas is now made up of three individuals who are all also named Plaintiffs in the litigation. Plaintiffs Whisenhunt, Beerbower, and Kruger are the three elected board members of the County commission. Such continued representation violates KRPC 1.7.”

She went on to say that if the County Commission cannot retain counsel, they would need to appear at any future hearings personally. KRPC 1.7 deals with situations where a lawyer discovers that representing a client creates a conflict of interest. For example, any conversation Ms. Hill had with her clients of the County Commission as defendants of the lawsuit would necessarily be shared with three of the people who filed the lawsuit against the County Commission.

Rule 1.7 does allow a lawyer to continue to represent a client even when there is a conflict of interest, but only if:

“the representation does not involve the assertion of a claim by one client against another client represented by the lawyer in the same litigation or other proceeding before a tribunal;”

This conflict of interest would appear to apply to any counsel that the County Commission retained. If that is the case, then the County Commission may be forced to represent itself.

Patrick Hughes of Adams Jones Law Firm in Wichita is representing the Plaintiffs. If Rule 1.7 required Jennifer Hill to withdraw as counsel due to a conflict of interest, it would seem there would be a conflict by the counsel representing the Plaintiffs as well.

On 2/5/2025, three solar companies filed briefs supporting their motion to dismiss. They claim that the plaintiffs appear to be trying to make changes to their petition without following the correct procedures, failing to address the Defendants’ arguments, and having no standing to file the lawsuit in the first place.

The Responses to the Defendants’ Motions to Dismiss only serve to reinforce the notion that the sole basis of Plaintiffs’ claim is that they do not like the Agreements but do not have any actual, legal injury that entitles them to relief. Accordingly, dismissal is required.

BB-2024-CV-000075 – Defendant Hinton Creek Solar LLCs Reply Brief in Support of Motion to Dismiss

BB-2024-CV-000075 – Tennyson Creek Solar LLC Tennyson Creek Solar II LLCs Reply in Support of Their Motion to Dismiss.

Gordon Parks Museum, History, Kansas

“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” Rescheduled to Feb. 14

February 10, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

Presentation Explores the History of Baseball in Kansas

Rescheduled Due to Forecasted Weather

Fort Scott, Kan. With the potential winter storm that is forecasted for this Wednesday, Feb 12, the Gordon Parks Museum hosted event “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime,” a presentation and discussion by Phil Dixon is rescheduled to Friday, February 14, 2025 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free program. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The program is made possible by Humanities Kansas.

This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with desserts provided by Great West Dining. Drinks and chips will also be provided. Fort Scott T-Mobile will also have a table set up for free raffle drawing for a chance for the attendees to win T-Mobile prizes.

“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas City Monarchs” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.

2020 marked two major milestones for baseball: the Negro Leagues celebrated their 100th anniversary and Major League Baseball merged statistics of these African American players with those of the major league. The history of Negro League baseball in America mirrors the racial strife experienced by African Americans in society. It was plagued by discrimination, racism, and inequity, while its athletes were celebrated for their resiliency, professionalism, and athleticism. The Kansas City Monarchs barnstormed across Kansas and the region to play more than 400 games between 1920 and 1957 against local towns. This talk sheds new light on this sports history and the history of baseball in Kansas.

Phil S. Dixon a co-founder of the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City. He is the author of nine books about baseball, including biographies about Wilber “Bullet” Rogan and John “Buck” O’Neil. In the course of his research, he has interviewed over 500 former Negro League players and family members.

“The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” is part of Humanities Kansas’s Speakers Bureau, featuring humanities-based presentations designed to share stories that inspire, spark conversations that inform, and generate insights that strengthen civic engagement.

For more information about “The Kansas City Monarchs and America’s National Pastime” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org.

About Humanities Kansas

Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.

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Government, Kansas

Seven Kansas Non-profits Awarded Big Game Hunting Permits for Fundraising

February 10, 2025 Submitted Story Leave a comment

PRATT – Seven lucky conservation organizations are set to receive Commission Big Game Hunting Permits after their applications were drawn by Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commissioners during the January 30^th public meeting. The Commission Big Game Hunting Permit program allows Kansas-based non-profit organizations that focus on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage to apply for one of seven permits. The permits can then be sold by the winning group to raise funds for conservation projects in Kansas. The winning organizations typically raffle or auction the permit to the highest bidder and keep 15 percent of the sale price to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved.

“Last year, proceeds from Commission permits supported the Habitat Specialist program which is one of our key conservation partnerships with Pheasants Forever,” said Wes Sowards, assistant director of the wildlife division at KDWP. “Habitat specialists work across the state to manage wildlife habitat on both private and public land with a special emphasis on conservation objectives in the State Wildlife Action Plan.”

“These habitat specialists are the true heroes in our eyes,” said Bob Hix, a regional representative from Pheasants Forever and Quail Forever. “The Kansas Pheasants Forever habitat team and the local chapters are committed to doing even more habitat work for all wildlife in Kansas.”

Other projects supported by the Commissioner permit proceeds have included wetland improvement at Cheyenne Bottoms Wildlife Area and special youth hunt programs.

“Ducks Unlimited is honored to receive these Commission permits which have been part of an ongoing and hugely successful partnership between DU and KDWP,” said Matt Hough, Kansas conservation programs manager for Ducks Unlimited. “Proceeds from these permits will be put to great use for priority projects of both organizations for the conservation of wetlands and waterfowl habitat that also provide public benefits to the people of Kansas.”

Based on applicant preference, seven deer permits were awarded to the following conservation groups for 2025:

Ducks Unlimited Wyandotte Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
[email protected]

Backcountry Hunters and Anglers Kansas Chapter
Marshal Loftus
816-489-1023
[email protected]

Kansas Bowhunters Association
Jamie Howarter
[email protected]

Ducks Unlimited Kansas University Chapter
Mike Bulk
785-294-1280
[email protected]

Pheasants Forever Stanton County Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
[email protected]

Pheasants Forever Osborne Chapter
Bob Hix
303-588-1542
[email protected]

National Wild Turkey Foundation Salty Spurs Chapter
Nate Watson
505-401-6474
[email protected]

Members of the public are encouraged to contact the representatives listed to learn when and where each of these permits will be auctioned or raffled in the future.

Complete rules for the Commission Big Game Permits can be found at ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission.

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The Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks (KDWP) is dedicated to the conservation and enhancement of Kansas’s natural resources for the benefit of both current and future generations. KDWP manages 29 state parks, 177 lakes and wildlife areas, more than 300 public waterbodies, and 5 nature centers, Other services include management of threatened, endangered, and at-risk species, law enforcement, and wildlife habitat programs. For more information about KDWP, visit ksoutdoors.com.

The seven-member, non-partisan Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission serves in an advisory capacity in formulating policies and plans for KDWP. The commission facilitates public hearings on rules and regulations proposed by the Secretary of KDWP, ultimately voting to approve, modify, or reject those proposed rules and regulations. The Commission Big Game Permits are authorized by K.S.A. 32-970.