NowCare clinic is open & available to see patients today. in Nevada, MO.
The hospital is open with limited services due to power outages. The Emergency Room is staffed with additional help to assist with triage of patients needing care.
Jennifer Eaton
Executive Assistant to CEO
Community Relations/Marketing
Foundation Director
Office: (417) 448-3710
Fax: (417) 448-3848
800 South Ash
Nevada, MO 64772
Nevada Regional Medical Center
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland recently participated in a roundtable surrounding the Department of Defense (DoD) SkillBridge program and the efforts taking place at Commerce to grow the workforce and elevate the Kansas economy.
“Military values are Kansas values,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Our troops dedicate years of their lives serving our nation — and Kansas is committed to easing their transition back to civilian life by connecting them and their families to lucrative careers.”
At the event, Commerce and DoD professionals discussed the importance of workforce resources specifically targeted to veterans seeking employment following their successful military service.
The roundtable also featured leadership and professionals from Kansas Military Affairs, Fort Riley, Fort Leavenworth, McConnell Air Force, the U.S. Department of Labor’s Transition Assistance Program (TAP) and Hiring Our Heros. The discussions focused on the approaches necessary to foster economic opportunities for veterans, service members and military spouses in Kansas.
“SkillBridge is an important tool we can leverage with employers to get transitioning service members into lucrative careers as soon as possible — and make sure we keep them in our state for years to come,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “We have outstanding service members already here — and excellent employers willing to invest in strong talent pipelines. Quite simply, Kansas is the ideal place to foster SkillBridge success.”
The DoD SkillBridge program assists veterans with post-military employment opportunities such as training, apprenticeships and internships that prepare them for permanent employment at the conclusion of their service. Participating service members are granted up to 180 days as their separation date approaches to focus solely on training and gaining in-demand work experience.
“Hiring veterans after they complete their time in the military is not only the right thing to do, it allows companies to benefit from the value and skills they bring to the table,” Vice President of Hiring our Heroes at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and SkillBridge Advisor Elizabeth O’Brien said. “We’ve been impressed with Kansas’ commitment to pairing its workforce resources with DoD’s efforts – and become a top five state in retention through the SkillBridge program.”
With economic opportunities expanding in Kansas and an already established focus on post-military education and employment, Kansas is an ideal partner for elevating the work of the SkillBridge program and growing the workforce pipeline in Kansas.
To learn more about the SkillBridge program, visit here.
Interested in learning more about KANSASWORKS and employment resources? 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 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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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland announced today $250,000 is available under the Residential Opportunities on Main Street (ROOMS) grant program to support new upper-floor housing in commercial buildings in Designated Kansas Main Street communities.
“Last year’s initial round of ROOMS funding resulted in 34 new housing units across the state and nearly $6 million in total investment,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Another year of funding allows for us to continue breathing life into communities across this state and growing economic opportunities for generations to come.”
Upper-floor investments play an important role in addressing the affordable and quality housing shortage, which regularly is identified as a major issue throughout Kansas. Upper-floor housing enhances the overall livability and functionality of downtowns. It also can lead to increased investment, improved infrastructure, a positive cycle of economic growth, a stronger tax base, and a greater sense of place and community identity.
“The Kansas Main Street program has worked to help communities build their capacity in developing upper-floor housing in downtown buildings,” Kansas Main Street Director Scott Sewell said. “Housing in these historic buildings downtown helps generate excitement and vitality in the area while restoring buildings to maximize their full use. ROOMS grants help these types of projects become reality.”
ROOMS funds will be available to applicants within active Designated Kansas Main Street communities for projects that can be shown to lead directly to housing creation or retention in upper floors of existing buildings in downtown areas. Projects must incorporate Main Street design standards and follow local ordinances and codes for improvements.
More details about ROOMS can be found here. For more information about the Kansas Main Street program, 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.
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Dear Editor:
Much is being said of late about taking care of our health. However, we’ve often heard this: “It’s my body, I can do what I want with it!” Let’s consider what God has to say through the apostle Paul to followers of Jesus Christ in 1 Corinthians 6:19. “Do you not know that your bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your bodies.”
The Woman’s Christian Temperance Union considers April’s Alcohol Awareness Month a good time to be reminded that alcohol is a toxic poison. Alcohol affects all parts of the body regardless of the amount consumed. I’m thankful that health organizations are speaking out more on this fact lately.
God has much to say about alcohol. Proverbs 20:1 says, “Wine is a mocker and beer a brawler, whoever is led astray by them is not wise.” We might want to consider what often leads people astray!
The book of Proverbs is full of wisdom. Here’s more on the subject from Proverbs 23:31-32: “Do not gaze on wine when it is red, When it sparkles in the cup, When it goes down smoothly! In the end it bites like a snake and poisons like a viper.”
From a recovering alcoholic comes this quote, “Sobriety is a lifestyle upgrade!” Wouldn’t avoiding alcohol completely be a healthy lifestyle upgrade?!
Sincerely,
Mrs. Loreta Jent,
National WCTU Education Director
Two commissioners, Brandon Whisenhunt and David Beerbower, met to conduct county business, as District 3’s, seat is currently vacant.
Old Business
Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Govdeals.com
Beerbower brought up a complaint he had received from a local auction service regarding the commission’s decision to use Govdeals.com to sell the used medical equipment from the old hospital. He expressed concern about following due process to find an auctioneer for the proceedings and give local businesses a chance to earn the county’s business. Originally, the auction for the old hospital equipment was going to be conducted by the county, but at the last commissioners meeting, they voted to use the online auction service.
Govdeals.com charges a buyer premium, offering their services at no cost to Bourbon County.
“We might also owe it to the constituents of our county to get the most bang for your buck,” said an audience member at the meeting.
Whisenhunt who had also spoken to the local auction service provider, wants to get the sale done as soon as possible, and not take the time to publish for bids, which would add at least two weeks to the current timeline for the sale of the equipment. “So I guess we’re at a stalemate.”
Bob Johnson, county counsel said that a lot of counties just use an online auction service.
After going over the last meeting’s minutes and confirming the commissions decision to hire Govdeals.com at that time, Whisenhunt made motion to sign the MOU with Govdeals.com to sell the old hospital equipment, less the items going to the Mapleton clinic. Beerbower seconded and the motion passed.
Regarding local businesses working with the county, Whisenhunt said, “I would recommend that anybody that has a small business that thinks they might ever do business with the county bring their contact information to the courthouse so we have a list.”
Greg Post, representing Friends of Mapleton and the clinic there, spoke to the commission. There are six small items in the hospital equipment sale that they want to lend-lease from the county, which would be a benefit to Bourbon County residents.
Whisenhunt and Beerbower both said they would be glad to donate the items to the clinic. They instructed Johnson to draw up a donation agreement with the clinic, which will state that the items will be returned to the county if the clinic ever doesn’t need them.
Fence viewing discussion
Beerbower said that since initial discussion a few weeks ago, other citizens have contacted him about it. The statute shows that the commissioners do owe some kind of service. He suggested a designee from the county be assigned to the job. There has to be one designee per commissioner, per the statute, according to Johnson.
Beerbower said the parties asking for the commission to view their fences are in his district. Whisenhunt needs to direct someone to go in his stead, because if they both go it’s a open meeting which must be published, said Johnson.
“I’ve been representing counties for 25 years and I’ve never had this come up,” said Johnson. He offered to put a memo together to help inform the commissioners fully of their obligations.
The item will also be on the next commission agenda.
Sheriff’s Tax Sale
Michael Hoyt spoke to the commission as a member of the Fort Scott Land Bank board. He encouraged the commission to use the services of attorney Christopher McElgunn with the firm of Klenda Austerman to conduct the county’s sales of properties with delinquent taxes.
He also advised the commission to have regular tax sales to incentivize citizens to pay their taxes and avoid loss of their property.
Susan Walker, County Clerk said that right now the county has about 150 properties ready for tax sale.
Whisenhunt made a motion to hire Klenda Austerman, an attorney at law, to handle the tax sales of properties. It was approved.
New Business
Zoning Discussion
Beerbower took over the handling of county zoning from Leroy Kruger when Kruger resigned two weeks ago. He said the county currently has two staff members, assigned by the previous commission, working on a plan. They also have some Allen County zoning examples to look at.
Beerbower has also met with a couple of citizens about the topic. “I’d like to see us go ahead an panel a group of citizens.” Preferably from each of the districts, depending on the letters of interested received. This would not be a voting panel, but for research to present a working plan to the commission. There will be zoning, this is to inform what kind of zoning it will be.
Whisenhunt asked the county was ready for this step. “I think we need to wait until we have a third person on the commission.”
An audience member spoke up to say this is only exploratory, information gathering step. It’s not an item to be voted on. Once a third commissioner is on there, then the zoning decisions can be completed. She is frustrated that no progress has been made on zoning since the new commission began.
Johnson pointed out that county employees have been working on this, it just hasn’t been public record.
Beerbower said that the work of the county employees will be a part of the information the panel uses to make their recommendations and he wants a commissioner to be on the panel as well.
“The panel would be the buffer before it comes to the commission,” said Beerbower.
Another audience member spoke up asking, “Are we doing codification or zoning?” He is against codification and wanted to know what the commissioners expect to come out of this. He also expressed concern about the scuttlebutt is that there’s a 100+ page document out there. which would indicate codification.
“Coding is not even on the table,” said Beerbower. “Zoning at its most basic is what we want.”
He said the citizen panel will provide transparency. The purpose of the zoning is to deal with industries that aren’t regulated by federal or state government and therefore need county regulation.
Beerbower made a motion to post for letters of interest to form a panel to discuss zoning research and review proposals for Bourbon County to be received by April 14. Motion was approved.
Department Updates
Laura Holdridge, Register of Deeds
The Hidden Valley Roads neighborhood wants Bourbon County to now maintain their roads. However, there is no record of an agreement with the county for that maintenance. They have done their own maintenance for at least the past 21 years. The area consists of 9 miles of roads.
The commission did not agree to take on the roads of Hidden Valley.
Land locked property
At an unspecified location in the county, J&M Land Company is denying a Mr. Cook access to his landlocked field. The original road records show a road there, but in the 1987 records they’re not there.
Cook called Whisenhunt Friday, saying he can’t get equipment through on the railroad right of way that J&M Land Company offered as access because it’s severely overgrown.
Holdridge, suggested that the county keep one small section of the road open so he can get to his property. J&M Land Company, LLC is opposed to reopening road.
Johnson said that if he’s been accessing it for more than 15 years, he has a prescriptive easement. It’s a civil matter and he will talk to the parties involved this week.
Eric Bailey from Public Works said that Cook couldn’t access it last year and it became a civil matter then.
County Cemeteries
Holdridge said there are 37 cemeteries in the county, only 2 file deeds with her office. Those cemeteries include the fees in the cost of the plots. Fees are listed on the county’s website. Statues require charging for deed filing. It is the public’s responsibility to file their deeds themselves. Her office doesn’t hold original deeds, but copies.
“There was a misunderstanding between Ms. Ethridge and myself” regarding the storage of old cemetery plot deeds, she said.
Whisenhunt says the big problem is that current cemetery boards are aging and records aren’t being kept well. They need to organize and get together to work out a system to keep track. They do need to add the cost of filing the deed to the cost of the plot. We’ve got to help some of them get updated, he said.
As the county government, we can’t make them, said Beerbower. It’s not our responsibility. The county does collect taxes for 16 of the cemeteries in the county, amounting to approximately $60,000 per year that is distributed to those cemeteries.
Eric Bailey, Public Works
60th and Grand Bridge: time to choose the construction engineer. Schwab Eaton was the bid received. They did this same job for the bridge at 160th and Fern. They helped the county apply for the grant and did the design for it. Commission gave approval to send an email to KDOT to approve Schwab Eaton. KDOT will pay for that service as part of this grant.
Good Old Days committee have a meeting coming up and want approval for the county to fetch golf carts from Lamar for the June event. Commission gave permission.
Bridge at 130th is repaired.
Elm Creek roofs had a volunteer group come forward and offer to do the roof if the county will provide the materials and a couple of employees. Approving that would bring them in under budget. Cost for material is $5,409.71. Bailey said he will find a way to make it with their budget. “We have to do something with those roofs. We’ve put it off and they’ve been neglected long enough,” he said.
Whisenhunt asked about the ditch project. “They made great progress on it,” said Bailey. It will be better when the rain lets up.
Beerbower asked about dust control service from the county. Requests must be for a minimum 300 ft, and last year the cost was $1.75 per foot. Those interested can call the office and get on the list. The county will go out with flags to mark area, then work the gravel road as best they can to get it compact and then put the oil down on it. Longevity of the dust control depends on traffic and amount of turning done on the surface.
Commissioner comments
Beerbower
Asked to attend the Fort Scott Chamber community connection panelist luncheon on April 9 at 1 pm at Empress event center.
KCCA Annual Conference in Manhattan, April 21-23, Beerbower cannot attend due to medical issues. Whisenhunt has to work. They both expressed hope that the new commissioner can go.
He added two budget discussion requests to next week’s agenda regarding juvenile detention and Kansas Mental Health. He wants to discuss what was budgeted for them and discuss amending it.
Whisenhunt
A family member expressed to him that the county should have an animal shelter. Whisenhunt suggested a partnership with a shelter that’s already in place, as it’s cost-prohibitive to start one up for the county.
Earnest Lee Riley, 79, a resident of Medicalodges, Fort Scott, KS died peacefully in his sleep on March 29, 2025. Earnie was born in Nowata, OK on July 3,1945 to Earl Riley and Ruby Irene (Harris) Riley.
For many decades, Earnie’s care was coordinated through the Kansas Guardianship Program while he resided and worked in facilities operated by Tri-Valley Developmental Services.
Declining health occasioned his move to Medicalodges. There are no known survivors.
Earnie will be laid to rest in Oak Grove Cemetery, Fort Scott, KS on April 5, 2025. Arrangements are under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today launched the Supporting Innovative Growth through New Signage (SIGNS) grant, a new initiative aimed improving the appearance and appeal of retail and commercial business signage in downtowns across the state. The total funding amount available is $250,000 and will be distributed to support innovative, high-quality signage projects.
“Downtown districts are the heartbeat of our rural communities,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Through the new SIGNS grant, we’re directly investing in locally owned businesses and their ability to attract more customers while preserving the charm and character of their historic downtowns.”
Eligible applicants are businesses or building owners, municipalities, Main Street organization, economic development groups, chambers, foundations, tribal organization and other nonprofit community entities. Communities can apply for funding ranging from $1,000 to $50,000, with a required cash match based on the community’s population:
To preserve the unique character of Kansas’ historic downtowns, the grant prioritizes projects that adhere to the Kansas Commerce Sign Guidelines, ensuring that all signage complements existing architectural features. Preference will be given to three-dimensional signs created and installed by Kansas-based businesses.
Funds will be used to enhance community vitality and contribute to the downtown’s historical and aesthetic character. Awarded funds can be used for the design, purchase, lighting and installation of signs. The program is intended to support multiple buildings and businesses in a downtown region. A minimum of three signs must be proposed in each application.
Applications will be reviewed on a monthly first-come, first-served basis, until the funds are fully allocated. Applicants should ensure proposed projects comply with state and local regulations and that all grant-funded signage is completed within six months of the award approval.
“Historically, rural and small communities often lack the resources to revitalize their towns — that’s why this new funding opportunity is critical,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “These investments in our downtowns and small businesses will foster growth and drive economic vitality across the state.”
For more information about the SIGNS grant, click here or contact Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.
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 Quality Places Division:
Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.
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TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Commerce today announced the launch of an innovative program to support community-driven projects that enhance the quality and functionality of public spaces in Kansas communities. The Transformative Art for Public Spaces (TAPS) grant will have a total of $150,000 available to support the creative transformation of often overlooked infrastructure into vibrant and engaging elements for the community.
“The TAPS grant program is about more than making every-day objects look more presentable,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Having attractive public gathering spots encourages more people to utilize them, stay for longer periods of time, and spend more money at local establishments. These small investments will have long-term economic benefits for communities across the state.”
The TAPS grant offers awardees amounts of $1,500 to $2,000 per project to cover materials, supplies and artist compensation. Interested applicants are encouraged to collaborate with local artists, students and community members by offering them opportunities to contribute creatively to their communities. A maximum of five projects are allowed per applicant.
Approved and funded fixtures and overlooked structures include:
Applications will be accepted through December 5 or until funds are depleted. Priority will be given to projects in communities that have not received funding from Commerce during the previous three years.
“The TAPS Grant is an exciting way to celebrate community identity while offering artists and residents the chance to make a lasting impact on their surroundings,” Assistant Secretary of Quality Places Matt Godinez said. “We can’t wait to see how these projects inspire collaboration and connections among our Kansas communities and residents.”
Organizations may submit proposals for multiple projects within a single application, provided each project meets the program’s guidelines. Projects that will not be supported include:
Applicants must work with their local municipality or property owner and be permitted to create art on the proposed structure. Documentation of this permission will be required for the application.
For more details, application forms, project examples and resources, click here.
Questions about the TAPS Grant can be directed to Quality Places Manager Sara Bloom at [email protected] or (785) 506-9278.
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 Quality Places Division:
Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click here.
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Donny Ray Roberts, a beloved family man and respected business owner from Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly at his home on March 27, 2025, at the age of 46.
Donny was the proud owner of Roberts Outdoor Works, a family business that was his greatest professional achievement. Beyond his work, he was known for his passion for rock crawling and show cars, with one of his most cherished memories being his top 10 placement at the Sparks of the Ozarks event.
A true family man, Donny was renowned for being the life of the party and a dependable source of support for those around him. His vibrant personality and generous spirit touched the lives of many.
Donny will be deeply missed by his family, friends, and the entire Fort Scott community. His passion for life, love for his family, and commitment to his business will be remembered by all who knew him.
Survivors include his wife Jennifer (Jae) Miller-Roberts of Fort Scott, KS; his father Ronnie Roberts of Fort Scott, KS; brother Ronnie Roberts (Jennifer) of Fort Scott, KS; children Austin Robichaux (Theresa) of Bar Hill, UK, Corryn Cortner (Wyatt) of Emporia, KS, Lillian Greer of Nevada, MO, Adalay Connet of Emporia, KS, Jaeci Roberts (Arden) of Harrison, OH, Morgan Roberts of Columbus, OH, Kyleigh Roberts of Ross, OH, Cody Roberts of Fort Scott, KS, and Bella Roberts of Fort Scott, KS. Also surviving are nieces and nephews Damian Roberts (Katiria) of Louisburg, KS, Jerica Roberts (John) of Fort Scott, KS, and Jasime and Mackie Roberts of Fort Scott, KS.
He was preceded in death by his mother, Linda (Large) Roberts.
A Celebration of Life will be held Sunday, April 6th at 12:00 pm at Gunn Park Shelter House #1, 1010 Park Ave., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
Lunch and drinks will be provided.
Memorials are suggested to the Robert’s Children Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends March 2025 with total tax collections at $636.9 million. That is $13.6 million, or 2.1%, below the estimate. Total tax collections were down 16.2% from March 2024.
Individual income tax collections were $261.6 million. That is $3.4 million, or 1.3% below the estimate. Individual income tax collections were down 28.3% from March 2024. Corporate income tax collections were $50.1 million. That is $26.9 million, or 34.9% below the estimate, and down 35.0% from March 2024.
Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $246.8 million, which is $8.2 million, or 3.2% below the estimate and down $14.5 million, or 5.5%, from March 2024.
The Consensus Revenue Estimating Group (CRE), comprised of the Department of Revenue, Division of Budget, Legislative Research Department, and economists from the University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and Wichita State University, will meet on April 17, 2025, to review the fall estimate and make any revisions it may consider necessary.
Click here to view the March 2025 revenue numbers.
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Kansans Encouraged to Contact 811 Before Digging
OVERLAND PARK, Kan. – April 01, 2025 – April typically marks the start of the spring planting season, home improvement projects and large-scale excavations. It’s also National Safe Digging Month, and Kansas Gas Service is reminding residents to contact 811 before any digging project – big or small. To celebrate those who commit to safe digging practices by taking the pledge, participants will have a chance to win a free tree.
“Safe digging is essential to protecting our communities, preventing service disruptions and keeping everyone safe,” says Trey Pool, manager of public awareness and damage prevention for Kansas Gas Service. “Through the Safe Digging Pledge and tree giveaway, we’re reminding Kansans that simply contacting 811 before digging can prevent costly damages and hazards. This initiative not only promotes responsible digging but also supports a greener, healthier environment for all.”
Dig Hero Tree Giveaway
Kansas residents can prioritize safety by taking the 2025 Safe Digging Pledge at beadigherokansas.com, and recognizing the importance of contacting 811 before their shovels or excavating equipment hits the ground – regardless of the size of the digging project. After taking the pledge, residents are automatically entered into a random drawing to win a free tree in partnership with the Arbor Day Foundation, the largest nonprofit membership organization dedicated to planting trees in the U.S. Winners of the tree giveaway will have the opportunity to pick the type of tree they wish to plant and receive information about energy savings gained from their tree.
Why Contact 811?
With any digging project, whether planting a tree or repairing a sprinkler system, there is a high probability of underground facilities below the site, such as natural gas pipelines, electric cables or water lines. The best way to avoid damage and injury or loss of service is to contact 811 at least two full working days before digging starts to learn the approximate location of buried facilities in your area. Contacting 811 is free, and it’s the law.
By calling 811 or submitting a request at kansas811.com, professional locators will mark the underground facilities within the designated project area with flags and/or paint at no cost to the home or business owner. Once the project is marked, be aware of the tolerance zone: a minimum of 24 inches. Hand or soft dig techniques should be used within this area.
Learn more about safe digging and take the pledge at beadigherokansas.com for your chance to win a free tree.
Digital Toolkit:
Access b-roll, Safe Digging Month flyer and graphics here.
About Kansas Gas Service
Kansas Gas Service provides a reliable and affordable energy choice to more than 648,000 customers in Kansas and is the largest natural gas distributor in the state in terms of customers. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas Gas Service is a division of ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS), a 100-percent regulated natural gas utility that trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “OGS.” ONE Gas is included in the S&P MidCap 400 Index and is one of the largest natural gas utilities in the United States. For more information and the latest news about Kansas Gas Service, visit kansasgasservice.com and follow its social channels: @KansasGas, Facebook, Nextdoor, LinkedIn and YouTube.
About the Arbor Day Foundation
The Arbor Day Foundation is a global nonprofit inspiring people to plant, nurture, and celebrate trees. They foster a growing community of more than 1 million leaders, innovators, planters, and supporters united by their bold belief that a more hopeful future can be shaped through the power of trees. For more than 50 years, they’ve answered critical need with action, planting more than half a billion trees alongside their partners. And this is only the beginning.
The Arbor Day Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit pursuing a future where all life flourishes through the power of trees. Learn more at arborday.org.
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