Monthly Archives: March 2025

Opinion

Hope For A Hot Lump by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

Hope for a Hot Lump

 

When I awaken in the winter mornings, the first thing I do is make my way to the living room to see what’s happening inside the firebox. After eight sleepy hours I don’t usually see any flames, however, I can see an orange glow and that’s a good sign. I then open the fireplace door, grab the custom-designed poker and stir the embers. I know it won’t be hard to get a blazing fire going again. This morning chore is vital during the cold-weather season. If I don’t keep stoking the fire, it will eventually go out, the embers will turn to ashes, and the house will get cold (and so will I).

 

Every time I stir the embers, I think of the letter Apostle Paul wrote to his young protégé  Timothy: “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination] (2 Timothy 1:6 AMP). Even though Paul is imprisoned, lonely, and sensing that his opportunities for preaching are about to be terminated, he wants to encourage and strengthen Timothy.

 

This loving and important letter to Timothy is for all believers that need to be reminded to fan the flame of discipleship to keep it burning hot. Should we wake up one morning and realize all we have left inside are a few embers, don’t throw in the towel and give up! Spring into action and stir yourself up in the Lord. Embers form when a fire has only partially burnt the wood and is still viable. If there are embers, then there’s a sure hope for a renewed fire which is necessary for living a holy and loving life.

 

There is a daily need in the hearts of all believers to keep the fire of commitment and loyalty to Christ blazing hot. Fire changes things. You can have hard kernels of popcorn and starve to death. But when you add fire to those seemingly worthless kernels, you end up with a tasty snack. We need to guard against complacency in our love, obedience, and worship to God. Each believer is responsible for fanning his/her own spiritual flame. No one else can do it for us. It’s our baby so we need to rock it!

 

Embers are small glowing hot lumps of wood in a dying fire. The key is the fact that the fire is not completely out. Being in the “process of dying” is not the same as dead. When we truly desire to live like Jesus, we’re assured that a rip-roaring fire can be revived from the embers. How can we tell if we’re on fire or not? We can use Jesus’ own words to evaluate our spiritual status: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30 NKJV). In other words, poke yourself and see if love comes out.

 

God’s Word is like the believer’s custom-designed poker. Everyday we need to read and study God’s love letters and allow the Holy Spirit to poke around in our heart to see if we have a blazing fire or a hot lump. God wants us to be red-hot Christ followers, but He loves to work with smoldering hot lumps in order to make them burning hot and productive again.

The Key: I’d rather be a hot lump than a cold bump on a log.

Bourbon County, Business

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team 2025 Update

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Jody Love

The past year we have provided county-wide support and grant funding to Fort Scott area, Bronson, and Mapleton. We have been working with The City of Bronson and SEKRPC on a CDBG grant as well.  This year we will continue that work and include Uniontown to the list.  Last year, we were awarded several county wide multiyear grants and ALMOST $4 MILLION in regional grants that directly benefit the citizens of Fort Scott.

 

Our mission drives our work:  to increase access to physical activity, healthy food, promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life and encourage economic growth.

 

We continue to offer hyper local workforce development (in partnership with SEK KANSASWorks) once a week until we can secure additional funding, a full-time community health worker, and business technical assistance in house daily.

 

We are very excited to start a new small business grant program, the last grant program we had saw over $3 million in capital injection in the community. Details will come later.  We will have the resources from CML Collective https://www.cmlcollective.com/ and Create Campaign https://www.createcampaignks.com/to implement programs and offer resources for our small business community.  I have also been asked to speak at the Network Kansas 4th Annual Conference in Wichita in May.

 

HBCAT SPECIFIC UPDATES

Community Health Needs Assessment and Business Retention and Expansion Survey (BRES)

o    *This surveys and assessments are important to inform HBCAT work, use of resources, and funding mechanisms.*

o    We are working on our Community Health Needs Assessment and BRES. As the County Economic Development, I implemented the same survey in 2019.  We called the City to see if they would like to participate with us on this year’s survey as a way to build relationships with local businesses.

o    HBCAT will create a report and collaborate with the city to present findings to the commission.  This is a service HBCAT is providing free of charge.

o      We used the same survey and template as we used in 2019 (provided by Craig at the Dept of Commerce!) and we will be able to compare data.  For instance, we can compare these 2019 business ratings:

o    HBCAT is working with the Health in All Policy Subcommittee (City of Fort Scott, HBCAT, Bronson) on the Community Health Needs Assessment.

o    If you are interested, this was part of the very first country-wide comprehensive strategic plan we did in 2019:

 

  1. The newsletter and results of that survey were widely distributed and can be found here: I’d like your feedback on this file. https://acrobat.adobe.com/id/urn:aaid:sc:US:b8086521-c234-48ea-83dc-4e29e862542f.
  2. 2019 County Assessment:  updates combined.docx
  3. I still have the strategic plan if you are interested in seeing it

 

$250-$300K Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas

 

This grant provided HBCAT $100,000 in coordination dollars for two years and up to an additional $200,000 for the community.

 

Where the money is going:

 

Coordination Pathway – HBCAT

$100,000 over two years (HBCAT providing 50% match for coordinator salary)

  • Coordination and planning activities such as regular engagement with technical assistance providers, peer communities and in-person training sessions.
  • Community engagement and leadership strategies.
  • Evaluation reporting and data collection.

 

Package: Economic Stability:  Social Entrepreneurship Supports

  • The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team and Rural Community Partners

o    Business Development

o    Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000

  • Match Expected: No

o    Champions:

  • Jody Love/Justin Miles HBCAT
  • Mary Wyatt, City of Fort Scott
              • (No financial commitment expected from the City)
  • Jennifer Simhiser, LHEAT member

Package: Education Access and Quality: Farm to School

  • USD 234

o    Community Green Farms at the Highschool

o    Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000

  • Match Expected: No

o    Champions:

  • Destry Brown, Superintendent
  • Jenny Layes, CHW

Package: Health Care Access and Quality: Health Related Social Needs

  • Girard Medical Center

o    Fort Scott and Uniontown Rural Health Clinic

o    Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000

  • Match Expected: No

o    Champions:

  • Ruth Duling, CEO Girard Medical Center
  • Jenny Layes, CHW

Package: Neighborhood and Built Environment: Multimodal Transportation and Recreational Trails

  • City of Mapleton

o    Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000

  • Match Expected: Yes, project costs will likely exceed funding available through this package

o    Expand on Mapleton’s recreational trails

  • Champions:
  • Gregg Post, Friends of Mapleton
  • Debbie Potter, Friends of Mapleton
  • Jody Love, HBCAT

Package: Social and Community Context: Incubator Kitchen and Food Hub

  • The Kitchen C+C Incubator Kitchen

o    Grant Range: $5,000-$50,000

  • Match Expected: Yes, funding or in-kind donation

o    Provide incubator space for cottage food makers

o    Champions:

  • Angela Simon, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
  • Rachel French, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
  • Bailey Lyons, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C

OTHER GRANTS, HBCAT PROVIDING A MATCH:

 

  • $302,166 KDHE Subaward of G2G EPA Grant

o    Regional

  • $165,000 Kansas Health Foundation/Kansas Food Action Network Grant

o    County Wide

  • $45,800 KDOC Rural Community Champion Grant

o    Bronson Specially, working on CDBG grant to match

  • $50,000 Youth Substance Abuse and Prevention Grant

o    County Wide Schools

  • There are a couple smaller grants including:

o    Health in All Policy Grant (County Wide)

o    Community Health Needs Assessment Grant (County Wide)

o    National Center on Healthy Housing Grant  (Regional)

Rural Community Partners (RCP)

“A rising tide lifts all ships.” As a region we have now applied for and have been awarded $4million in grant funds in the last year.  Rural Community Partners is our regional grassroots organization that blossomed out of the regional work with the University of Kansas Medical “COPE” program.  It is housed within HBCAT, with Jody Love leading to drive the work and we serve as a fiscal agent.  The RCP board includes Randy Robinson, Christina Pacheco, Darrell Pulliam, and Quentin Holmes.  RCP has county coalitions in 4 counties, regional mentors, and the Small Business and Entrepreneurs Council (SBEC) which is made up of small businesses across the region.

Quick update on our work to date:

WE HAVE A NEW LOGO!! CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK!

Civic Engagement:

o    -LHEATS are meeting regularly in 4 counties, each with their own budgets.

o                    -Bourbon and Crawford will finish out the COPE dollars in May and hopefully we will be able to implement our new EPA grant

o    -Attending many conferences and events across the state and county, bringing along residents from each county.

Workforce Development:

o    -We applied for an EPA Community Change Grant and was selected for $2.9million.  We collaborated with 3 different workforce development agencies, 4 counties, and University of Kansas.  We hope to start work in June.

 

Business Development:

o    -The SBEC was working diligently on a regional survey.  We found out that Commerce is working on the same effort.  We are excited to see this happen and see it roll out and how we can build upon it.

o    -Dare to Dream event was a success

o    -The Small Business Mentorship Program has had clients and mentors across the region

o    -HBCAT received a BCBS Pathways Grant that will financially support our small business and entrepreneurship efforts

o    -Quarterly small business highlights! You find them here: https://ruralcommunitypartners.substack.com/

Still in limbo is a $2.9million EPA grant due to uncertainty at the federal level.  While our organization is not depending on the funding, our community and region can certainly benefit from it.

 

As the founding president and CEO, I am exceptionally proud of where we stand today—almost 10 years ago (next year!). I am forever grateful for the friendship and support of my dear friend, and then City of Fort Scott Economic Development Director, Heather Smith. Together, we co-wrote the first BCBS Pathways to Healthy Kansas Grant. While grants don’t necessarily create organizations, the Pathways grant was instrumental in helping us build the capacity to grow.

 

Special thanks to the HBCAT Board: Josh Jones (Chair), Kelly Perry, Kayla Boyd, Alex Barner, Lindsay Madison, Lucas Kelly and our team: Jenny Layes, Justin Miles, Aura Brillhart, Sherri Siebert, and Brett Dalton.

 

Our partners, funders and collaborators are ever growing and some of our current funders include: University of Kansas Medical, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Centers for Disease Control, Environmental Protection Agency, National Center for Healthy Housing, Kansas Department of Commerce Office of Rural Prosperity, Kansas Department of Aging and Disability, Kansas Food Action Network, Kansas Health Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas, Sunflower Foundation

 

We will work to continue to grow our local, regional, state, and national networks.  This intentional effort took much time, money, and travel but we have found the return on investment to be great. Among many accomplishments, we wanted to share a few highlights:

 

  • We have collaborated with Wichita State on a grant and resource hub for coalitions, be sure to check out the new website: https://elevatekansas.org/coalitions/
  • Jody has been nominated to the executive committee for the Governor’s Council on Wellness this year, and to serve as the Vice Chair next year
  • We have had one trip to Washington DC this year and have another planned in May

 

 

Looking forward to what 2025 brings!! (HINT: A new website for one!!) Please do not hesitate to reach out.

 

 

Jody Love

Rural Community Partners, Inc.

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, Inc.

President and CEO

620-215-2892

104 North National

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

 

Art, Bourbon County, Business, Government, Kansas

Awardees of the KS Governor’s Arts Announced.

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Governor Kelly Recognizes Melissa Etheridge, Others at Governor’s Arts Awards

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards during a ceremony held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. The event was focused on celebrating remarkable individuals, organizations and communities for their exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing the arts across Kansas.

Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge was named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Award.

“There are many talented Kansans involved in creative work across our state, and we know that art enhances their lives and the lives of those around them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The people we recognized at the Governor’s Arts Awards tonight are using their talents and passions to strengthen communities all throughout Kansas and to enrich the culture of our great state.”

At the awards ceremony hosted by Wichita television personality Sierra Scott, 17 individuals and organizations were recognized for their work and efforts in elevating Kansas through arts and culture. Nominations for each award are thoroughly reviewed and chosen by a selection committee. The recipient for The Governor’s Award is chosen by Governor Kelly herself.

“Governor Kelly and I have had the privilege of learning about and witnessing the dedication of artists, organizations, advocates, communities and creative businesses located across every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas arts and culture community plays a significant role in our growing economy by enriching the quality of place we call home. This impressive group of awardees is most deserving of the spotlight, and the state looks forward to see these inspiring leaders continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Kansas.”

The 2025 Governor’s Award recipient has been inspiring fans around the world for decades. Beyond Etheridge’s chart-topping records and stirring live performances, the Leavenworth native is known as a tireless advocate of Kansas who champions local causes through hands-on service.

“Across the nation and world, people are connecting with Etheridge’s music and can see how she truly embodies the Kansas values of hard work, self-reliance and kindness,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “She takes all the things that make Kansas great and shares them with the world — and she regularly brings it back home to benefit communities through her generosity and spirit.”

This year’s award categories and recipients are:

  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Media Arts: Kiki Bush, Gypsum
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Music: Bob McWilliams, Lawrence
  • Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts: Shin-hee Chin, McPherson
  • Arts Advocacy: Brenda Meder, Hays
  • Arts Patron of the Year: Paul Dorrell, Roeland Park
  • Excellence in Arts Education: Tyler Dallis, Pratt
  • Excellence in the Arts in Business: The Artificers, Fort Scott
  • Emerging Arts Leader of the Year: Lacey Connell, Overland Park
  • Emerging Arts Organization of the Year: LV Arts, Leavenworth
  • Rural Arts Community of the Year: Clay Center
  • Urban Arts Community of the Year: NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka
  • Arts Leader of the Year: Katy Guthrie, Garden City
  • Arts Organization of the Year: Theatre in the Park, Overland Park
  • Arts Legacy Award: Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
  • Arts Legacy Award: Cecil Riney, Wichita
  • Arts Legacy Award: NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
  • The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth

To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, their programs or art resources, visit 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 Kansas Arts Commission (KAC):

The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at [email protected] or (785) 213-5959.

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K-State Extension

Fruit Trees Should Be Pruned Now

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Are you itching to get out of the house and do something productive in the landscape? If you have fruit trees, now is the time to prune. A little planning ahead with fruit trees, such as pruning, can mean big rewards later in the growing season.

 

Are you like many who are “afraid” to prune? Don’t be. When done correctly, pruning is an essential component of growing a healthy, productive fruit tree. Fruit trees should be pruned every year and for several reasons. The first is the development of a strong tree structure. Pruning should begin when the tree is planted and continued each year thereafter. Another reason to prune is the increased penetration of sunlight for the development of fruit buds and for the fruit to mature properly.

 

Trees can be pruned this early (winter) because they are dormant. This can be done in January, February and even early March. Pruning when trees are dormant makes it easier to see undesirable branches because leaves aren’t present. It is important to do any pruning before dormant sprays are applied, to avoid spraying some of the wood that will later be removed. Total spray coverage of limbs, branches and shoots will be increased after pruning. Do not prune if temperatures are below 20°F because this can cause tissue damage.

 

Have your fruit trees been neglected for quite some time? If so, pruning can seem like an overwhelming task; where to start, how much wood to remove, etc. But a neglected tree can be revitalized.

 

The first step in revitalizing a neglected tree is to prune wood around the trunk area and near the ground. Remove all sucker growth around the trunk by cutting as close as possible to the point of origin. Then remove all dead and diseased branches. Next, look for two branches that rub and remove one of the two. Branches that are growing toward the interior of the tree should also be removed. No more than thirty percent of the tree should be removed in a year.

 

You will want to retain scaffolds that are growing away from the tree center at wide angles with the trunk. Scaffolds are one of the main branches making the basic framework of a tree. They should be positioned on different sides of the tree for good distribution of the fruit crop.

 

The right tools are needed for proper pruning. Tools always need to be sharp so clean cuts can be made. Cuts that result in bark tears, stubs, or jagged surfaces are slow to heal and may even not completely heal. A scissor type of hand shear is used to prune small size wood, usually ¼ inch in diameter. Long handled loppers should be used to cut ¼ to ½ inch wood. These will need to be used generally by the third year of tree growth.  For branches larger than ½ inch, use a fine-toothed pruning saw.

 

The Extension office has a couple of publications on pruning fruit trees that explain in more detail how to prune depending on the species and age of the tree. These publications can be found on our Southwind website: www.southwind.ksu.edu

 

Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Horticulture agent assigned to Southwind District.  She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

 

 

 

 

K-State Extension

A Financial Check-Up

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Amanda Classen. Submitted photo.

As the flowers bloom and the days grow longer, spring is the perfect time for renewal—not just for your home but also for your finances. Just as many people embrace spring cleaning to refresh their living spaces, a financial checkup can help tidy up your budget, savings, and financial goals. Financial goals—such as reducing expenses, increasing savings, and paying off debt—are often a top priority. Conducting a financial checkup can be an excellent first step toward achieving these objectives.

According to a 2023 report from the Federal Reserve, 37% of Americans would struggle to cover a $400 emergency expense, highlighting the importance of maintaining financial stability. Additionally, a survey by Bankrate found that only 44% of U.S. adults have enough savings to cover three months of expenses, reinforcing the need for better financial planning.

Just as regular medical checkups are essential for maintaining physical health, an annual financial checkup can provide valuable insights into your financial well-being. While there is no “one size fits all” answer in Financial Planning, what might work for one family or individual may not work for another. K-State Research & Extension offers a resource titled How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup to help individuals assess and enhance their financial health. This publication is available online at K-State Research & Extension Bookstore, or physical copies can be obtained at local Extension Offices.

How Are You Doing? A Financial Checkup includes a Financial Fitness Quiz covering key areas such as financial management, saving and investing, credit, and smart shopping. The publication also provides guidance on setting financial goals, preparing a net worth statement, and developing a budget. Additionally, it offers valuable information on reviewing taxes, credit reports, insurance coverage, retirement plans, investments, and estate planning.

Whether managing your finances independently or with professional assistance, this resource can help you gain a clearer understanding of your financial situation and support your efforts in making meaningful improvements.

Information from today’s article came from K-State Research and Extension’s Fact Sheet: How are you doing? A Financial Check-Up.  For more information, contact Community Vitality Agent Amanda Clasen at any Southwind District office or [email protected].

 

 

Obituary

Obituary For Arthur “Mac” McCammon French

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Arthur McCammon “Mac” French, 75, of Fort Scott, passed away early Tuesday morning, March 11, 2025. He was born October 7, 1949, in Pittsburg, Kansas, the son of Arthur McCammon French and Patricia Ruth (Bicknel) French. He married Nema Burton and together they had two children, Tommy and Courtney. They later divorced, and Mac moved to the Dallas, Texas area to work. He married Shawn Murphy later in life, and she preceded him in death on January 9, 2021.

Mac graduated from Colgan High School and went on to graduate from Pittsburg State University. He was a Visual Merchandiser and worked for Sally Beauty Supply company. Mac was an excellent guitar player and lead singer, and played in several bands.

Survivors include his son, Thomas McCammon French, of Arma, Kansas; a sister, Shari Magee, of Fort Scott; grandson Cooper French, of Arma, Kansas, as well as numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife, Shawn, Mac was also preceded in death by his parents, and his daughter, Courtney Amber French.

Following cremation, private family graveside services will be at a later date at Evergreen Cemetery, under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School, and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

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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!

Bourbon County, Government

Agenda for the Bo Co Commission Meeting on March 17

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Bourbon County Commission Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room 210 S National Ave.

March 17, 2025, 5:30 PM

Attachmen ts:

Binder1

3.14.25

 

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

  1. Call Meeting to Order
    1. Roll Call
    2. Pledge of Allegiance
    3. Prayer – David Beerbower
  2. Approval of Agenda
  • Approval of Minutes from 03.10.25
  1. Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of 3-10-25 Accounts Payable Totaling $110,146.10
    2. Approval of KCCA Dues $544.68
    3. Resolution for Official Election Results
    4. Jakes Fireworks Permit
    5. Culvert for Mitchell Coulter 2549 Limestone Road
    6. Tax roll corrections
  2. Old Business
    1. SEKRPC Board Representative
      1. Greg Motley
      2. Mary Wyatt
    2. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
  • New Business
    1. Taxes for 201 S Crawford $92.10
    2. KWORCC-Worker’s Compensation Audit
    3. Christopher McElgunn – Klenda Austerman, Attorney’s at Law
    4. Carey Welsch – Gov Deals – Auctions 913-424-2482
    5. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2)
    6. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2)
    7. Executive Session K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1)
    8. Department heads
      1. Eric Bailey
      2. Fees
    9. Bids for Roofs and Courthouse Building
    10. Commissioner Comments
  • Adjournment

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

 

Brandon Whisenhunt, Chairman

1st District Commissioner

David Beerbower, Vice-Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Leroy Kruger

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

 

 

Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Agenda for March 18, Unapproved Minutes of March 4

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

March 18, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

                                               

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1380-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of February 27, 2025 – March 11, 2025 – $1,061,286.37
  4. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of March 4, 2025
  5. Request to Pay – Schneider Electric – Annual Renewal of Service Agreement – $12,894.00
  6. February Financials

                                                                

  1. V Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

  1. Cory Bryan – FortFest 2025 – Park Closure request – Riverfront – Sept. 24 – 29, 2025

           

VIII.   Unfinished Business

  1. Consideration of Letter of Interest for Planning Commission Vacancy –Danny Brown

 

  1. New Business

            Public Hearings

  1.  Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 6-2025 – DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR                                       REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE

AT 301 N. Jefferson – L. Kruger

 

  1. Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 7-2025 DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR                                      REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE

AT 501 S. Osbun – L. Kruger

 

  1. Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 8-2025 DIRECTING THE REPAIR OR                                      REMOVAL OF AN ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE

AT 314 S. Scott – L. Kruger

 

            Action Items:

  1. Consideration of Bids for Easement Machine – B. Lemke
  2.  Consideration of Ground Lease Bids – Field A – B. Matkin
  3.              Consideration of Greens Mower Purchase – M. Wyatt
  4.  Status of 323 W. Wall – L. Kruger
  5. E. Consideration of RESOLUTION NO. 9-2025 – RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF          

HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLGEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS                      STRUCTURE AT 121 S. MARGRAVE – L. Kruger

  1.  Consideration of Lease Agreement for LaRoche Baseball Complex, City of Fort Scott, and Mid America Baseball League – B. Matkin
  2.  Consideration of Monetary Partnership agreement between the City of Fort Scott   and Mid America Baseball League – B. Matkin
  3.  Consideration for the City to write a letter to Congress or issue a resolution to send  to Congressional Representative to Protect SNAP/No Kid Hungry – M. Wells
  4.   Consideration for approval for Commissioner Wells to sign a letter to Secretary  Rubio and Secretary Noem to immediately restart the US Refugee Resettlement  Program – M. Wells
  5.   Consideration to sign a letter to save our historic site from the damaging impacts of  the mass firings – M. Wells
  6. Consideration to approve installation of Family Station(s) in public areas – Submitted by SEK Multi-County Health Department (SEKMCHD)
  7. Consideration of Addendum No. 4 – Wastewater Evaluation and Design Contract   for Davis Lift Station Project – J. Dickman               

             

  1. Reports and Comments

 

  1. Adjourn

 

Unapproved Minutes of the FS Commission Meeting of March 4

CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING

 

 

Minutes of March 4, 2025                                                                                  Regular Meeting

 

A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.

 

The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM. Roll call was taken. Commissioners Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.

 

In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Bob Farmer/City Attorney, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Lt. Caleb Bell/FSPD, Mary Wyatt/Planning, Housing & Business Development Director, Devin Tally/City Finance Manager, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Zachary Bradley, Shelly Bradley, Adriana Perry, Alli Feeback, Brooklyn Chase, Mickayley McCluney, Julie Buchta, and Melissa Shelden.

 

VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and MATKIN said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, the citizens, and our Government and City officials.

 

Approval of Agenda (2:25)

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to remove Item D – Status of 118 E. Wall – Unfinished Business due to no new information to report. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER moved to approve the agenda with the amendment and the addition of an Executive Session prior to adjourning the meeting. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Approval of Consent Agenda  (4:05)

– Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1379-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of February 12, 2025 – February 26, 2025 – $696,674.96

– Approval of Minutes:  February 12, 2025 /Special Meeting and February 24, 2025/Regular Meeting.

 

MOTION:  SALSBURY moved to approve the Consent Agenda as is. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0

 

Public Comments (4:28) – None

 

Appearances (4:29) – None

 

 

Unfinished Business

Zachary Bradley – Vacation of Alley between 1418 Wall and 1416 Wall  (4:41) – MATKIN stated that he and NATION, as well as Public Works went to the property and agreed that the City could access the easement from the back. Therefore, he believed that it was okay to vacate the alley.

 

ACTION:  The City will clean up their line that was left with fill.

 

MOTION:  OLSON moved to approve the vacation of the alley between 1418 Wall and 1416 Wall. SALSBURY seconded.

 

SALSBURY, VAN HOECKE, OLSON and DANCER voted yes.  WELLS voted no.

 

MOTION CARRIED 4-1.

 

Consideration of Grant Application Options (8:00) – WYATT to request a decision on which projects the Commission would like to pursue for grants in 2025. The KDOT grant is due March 27th and SEKRPC writes the CDBG grants for the City and are asking if we wish to begin the process. WELLS, VAN HOECKE, and OLSON would like to pursue the CDBG grant for the Memorial Hall Project. For the KDOT grant, WELLS would like to pursue the 6th Street Project (Wall St. to Charles St and 6th to Horton), VAN HOECKE recommended the Main Street Project (3rd St. to E. National).

 

Discussion was had about the pros and cons of both projects that were suggested. OLSON suggested 3rd St. from the bypass up to National or possibly further.

 

Further discussion was had to include alleyways.

 

Credit Card Purchasing Charges Update – (17:47) – TALLY presented (2) options. The Commission directed staff to go with the option of only credit card users are charged the convenience fee.

 

New Business

Consideration of Reappointment of previous members and Letters of Interest for Board of Zoning Appeals Vacancy

MOTION:  OSLON moved to reappoint Robert Nelson and Brain Rhoades to the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals.  DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  OSLON moved to reappoint Robert Nelson and Brain Rhoades to the City’s Board of Zoning Appeals.  DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to nominate Denise Doherty as the City/Planning Commission member of the Board of Zoning Appeals. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  WELLS nominated Josh Jones to be the representative from the County for the Board of Zoning Appeals.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  DANCER nominated Matt Witt to be a representative of the City for the Board of Zoning Appeals. WELLS seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Consideration of Letters of Interest for Planning Commission Vacancy (29:36)

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to table this item to the March 18, 2025, meeting due to lack of Letter of Interest.  OLSON seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.   

 

ACTION:  The City Clerk will extend the deadline for submissions of the Letters of Interest for the Planning Commission to fill the (1) vacancy. She will also reach out to the candidates for the Board of Zoning Appeals who were not selected.

 

Reports and Comments

CITY MANAGER (30:45)

– Looking into licensing for food trucks – Commission to look at Chapter 5.20 of the Municipal Code pertaining to Solicitors and Peddlers and see if that is how they wish to proceed, however fees and licensing should be considered.

– Distributed a sample sign for the boundaries of the Common Consumption area.

– Distributed a list of employee training programs and encouraged Commissioners to participate.

– Downtown map of painting to be done for parking.

– Working on City parking lot near Holmtown, then south of Margeaux’s to be done.

 

CITY ENGINEER (33:58)

– Weather has delayed Horton Street grinding completion. A profiligraph has been completed but a report has not been received by the City Engineer and City Manager. WELLS addressed the warranty and the areas that are delaminating.  DICKMAN stated that it had to be addressed before they leave. DICKMAN explained that once the City accepts the project, the warranty for (1) year begins. If anything should fail during that period, it must be fixed at no cost. It was confirmed that the fog-coating is included. The target of completion is by the end of March.

– KDOT Cost Share Project– (3rd Street from Hwy to National) – he will assist WYATT with exhibits and cost estimates. WELLS reminded him of the inclusion of the alleyways to Wall Street.

– CCLIP Phase III – Wall Street – working on exhibits and cost estimates which will be ready by the end of the month.

 

CITY ATTORNEY (37:03) – No comments.

 

COMMISSIONER WELLS (37:07)

– Parking restrictions during restriping. Discussion was had on a plan to be put in place.

 

COMMISSIONER DANCER (38:47) – No comments.

 

COMMISSIONER OLSON (38:53)

– Request for refreshing the street striping.

 

COMMISSIONER SALSBURY (39:41)

– Request to make a No Parking Zone on the southwest corner of 10th and Main, across from the high school due to visibility of oncoming traffic issues.

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will look into that.

 

COMMISSIONER VAN HOECKE (40:53)

– Golf course issues that need to be addressed.

 

ACTION:  MATKIN will arrange a meeting with VAN HOECKE, WYATT and the clubhouse manager to meet with him.

 

Executive Session

MOTION:  DANCER moved that the City Commission recess into an Executive Session for the purpose of discussion pursuant to the personnel matters of non-elected personnel exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(1). The session will be held in the City Manager’s office with the (5) City Commissioners. The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:06PM. SALSBURY seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

MOTION:  VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session. DANCER seconded.

 

MOTION CARRIED 5-0.

 

Adjourn

MOTION:  DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:07PM (1:08:27). OLSON seconded.

 

MARCH 4, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 7:07PM.

 

Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk

Fort Scott, Fort Scott National Historic Site

Federal Cuts Affecting the Fort Scott National Historic Site Staffing

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Fort Scott National Historic Site.

Matthew Wells, president of the Friends of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, told the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce about the consequences of the recent cuts to the National Parks Service by President Donald Trump at the weekly coffee on March 13.

Wells encouraged the community to call their elected representatives to tell them how important the fort is to the city of Fort Scott, with the historic site averaging 25,000 tourists a year.

In a later interview, Wells said that currently, Fort Scott National Historic Site is operating with less than 50% of its normal staffing levels.

“This has led to multiple-day closures of the park, a drastic cancellation of all interpretive programs, and a significant reduction in staff-led tours and educational events, that have historically been at the heart of this site’s appeal,” he said.  “All of the activities that the Fort personnel do every year have been cancelled. But they are still trying, as staffing will allow, on a case-by-case scenario, to find educational opportunities with educators. With this loss of staffing, the essential public services and programs that are critical to the park’s mission have been disrupted, resulting in a diminished visitor experience.”

Wells said the reduction in staffing and closures have far-reaching consequences.

“As a gateway community, Fort Scott relies heavily on tourism dollars and taxes, with Fort Scott National Historic Site being one of the primary attractions drawing visitors. These cuts not only harm the park but also undermine the economy of the entire region, negatively affecting local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and other tourism-related services. The loss of visitors directly impacts local revenues, jeopardizing the livelihoods of residents and business owners who depend on tourism as a vital part of their income.”

“This ongoing situation is causing irreparable harm to Fort Scott National Historic Site and our community. With all Government credit cards being limited to $1, vital repairs can no longer be accomplished. Even the purchases of everyday items such as toilet paper are not possible, and trash services have been disrupted as payments cannot be made. We fear that if these issues are not addressed promptly, the future of the park could be in jeopardy, as could the economic and cultural vibrancy of our town. The historical significance of Fort Scott is irreplaceable, and we cannot afford to lose this essential part of our heritage, nor can we afford the continued erosion of the tourism-based economy that sustains our community.”

“Right now, two of our Friends (of Fort Scott National Historic Site organization ) board members are volunteering to keep the visitor center open,” Wells said.  “Friends members are working multiple days a week. Both of them have taken the specialized training required by the federal government in order to be volunteers in that capacity. Others are volunteering as living historians to roam the grounds and to keep the smallest amount of interpretive program growing. Friends of the Fort is active and helping the fort in any way that we can.”

Carl Brenner, FSNHS Program Manager said the fort will be open to the public Friday through Tuesday from 1/2 hour before sunrise to 1/2 hour after sunset. On Wednesdays and Thursdays, the fort will be closed because of a staffing shortage, like last summer. During these times, the buildings will be closed but the public can walk the walking trails in the park.

Brenner referred this reporter to the Midwest communication contact person, who referred to the news media contact at the National Park Service. There has been no response to questions that were sent as of the time of this publication.

To contact the representatives(taken from the Bourbon County Kansas website:

U.S. Senators for Kansas

Roger Marshall – (Republican)
PO Box 1588
Great Bend, KS 67530
(202) 224-4774

Jerry Moran – (Republican)
PO Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
(620-232-2286

U.S. Representative for Kansas

Derek Schmidt (Republican)
1223 Longworth House Office Building
Washington, DC  20515
Phone: (202) 225-6601

 

 

 

Opinion

A Worthy Investment 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.)

“Make me worthy of your investment, Lord.”

A friend starts every day with these words.

Read them again.

What a way to rise and shine!

Did you ever think of your life as an investment?  God’s investment?  To Him, you are an asset.  He paid the maximum for you with the death of His son, and you have been blessed with every great thing from above to continue bringing glory to Him.

You have been given talents that make you more valuable than you could ever imagine.  In 2 Corinthians 4:7, Paul echoed this fact: “But we have this treasure in earthen vessels, that the excellency of the power may be of God, and not of us.” 

  When was the last time you thanked your Heavenly Father for placing a treasure inside you?  That “treasure” is the Holy Spirit, the comforter Jesus promised to indwell us once he left this earth, following his resurrection. I can’t fathom the idea that I am a place—as unreliable and fickle as I am–where God hides His greatest treasure, can you?

On the outside, we all are wearing out.  Some days, more than others. We are broken, fragile and weak, yet God chose to place inside us the very authority that created this universe and raised His son from the dead. Wow!   In 2 Corinthians 4:7, we read, “We now have this light shining in our hearts, but we ourselves are like fragile clay jars containing this great treasure.” In other words, our great power is from God, not from ourselves, and what truly matters is what is inside us, not outside.

Reading further, verses 8-10 lay out the hope we have hidden inside of us.  “We are pressed on every side by troubles, but we are not crushed. We are perplexed but not driven to despair.  We are hunted down but never abandoned by God. We get knocked down, but we are not destroyed.  Through suffering, our bodies continue to share in the death of Jesus so that the life of Jesus may also be seen in our bodies.”

Let me remember that, Lord, so that I am an investment worthy of you.      

A friend shared with me some powerful words from her pastor, words that reflect what happens when we fail to see ourselves as an investment.  “One day can rob us of our To-days.  One day…when I meet someone and get married; when I get the promotion I deserve; when my prodigal daughter straightens up her act; when I no longer have to care for my invalid father…”  The excuse that things will get better when (fill in the blank) prevents us from being the investment God intends us to be.

If you have ever owned something you treasured, chances are you placed it in a safe, secure place.  Some of my friends tell stories of deceased relatives leaving large stashes of cash in old socks, rag bins and pillows to keep them safe. After my mother died, I opened her cedar chest; taped to the inside was a note: “There is no money in here.”  It was a much-needed, humorous moment.  Then again, to Mom, earthly things did not matter.

Continuing in 2 Corinthians 4:16-18 we read, “Though our bodies are dying, our spirits are being renewed every day.  For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever.”

Should we choose to be an investment worthy of God, our “forever” will be a treasure we can’t afford to miss.