Monthly Archives: September 2025

Bourbon County

County Commission Discuss EMS and Elm Creek Quarry

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Commissioner David Beerbower started the September 8 meeting with a discussion of meeting limits. He addressed the issues of establishing a protocol for setting a time limit on their meetings and work sessions because “marathon meetings” work against the democratic process when they cause the desire to get done to become everyone’s goal. He proposed stopping the meetings 2 hours in and then reviewing where they are on the agenda, moving remaining urgent items forward, and tabling the remainder. He also said that anyone who has traveled a distance to address the board should be moved to the top of the agenda following the approval of consent agenda items.

County Clerk Susan Walker addressed concerns with the agenda and getting it finalized and accomplished in a timely manner.

Tran said that it was important for commissioners to have all the information needed for making decisions ready at each meeting, rather than treating the meeting at the work sessions.

“If we’re going to put something on the agenda, we should have the supporting documentation with it,” agreed Beerbower.

Beerbower moved to adopt the procedure outlined initially as well as setting the preliminary agenda for the next meeting at the end of each regular meeting. The motion carried.

Consent Agenda

Approval of 09.05.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $308,641.44

Approval of 09.05.25 Payroll Totaling $326,473.16

Salary Resolution, 3125

The County Clerk, Susan Walker, said the resolution reduced the county clerk’s pay by $10,000 and the register of deeds by $5,000.

Milburn said it was being done in according with the vote from 8/11.

Walker noticed the addition of a finance person for $25,000, which job she was doing for about $3,500, and a new administrative assistant position for $35,000. The $35,000 they were spending was to keep Jennifer in house to assist the clerks office as well as to learn some of the treasurer’s duties, which was a one-time thing.

Walker also said that she didn’t receive the information in the resolution ahead of time.

“My job duty as clerk is to be secretary to the board,” per state statute, she said. She is to record their proceedings and shall keep the receipts and expenditures of the county, entering them by fund. Despite the job of payroll being transferred to another entity, she is still responsible for recording payroll and benefits.

She asked the commission to reconsider the outsourcing of payroll even though they are currently in the process of making that change over.

She also compared Bourbon County pay to that of similar counties. Bourbon used to be the lowest, but she has received additional pay for preparing the budget, which most counties don’t do, but hire an outside firm. Average pay for a county clerk is $72,000, so she doesn’t feel that Bourbon County is out of line with other counties. She acknowledged that it was a big jump in pay this year, but said that there had been no consideration for several years prior to that.

Beerbower amended his motion to pay the consent agenda and discuss the resolution separately.

Milburn said that historically, when a resolution is approved at a previous meeting, as resolution 3125 was, it is moved to the consent agenda at a following meeting, once the resolution itself has been prepared.

Beerbower assented and the board approved the new salary resolution unanimously, along with the remainder of the consent agenda. The resolution will go into effect Jan. 1, 2026.

Lora Holdridge, Register of Deeds-Budget Question

Holdridge said her department’s been cut more than $25,000 and is down to one full-time and one part-time person.

“A part-time person does not care about what is very important for my office to be correct,” because they don’t get the benefits that full-time employees get, she claimed.

Holdridge said that the title companies are catching several mistakes from previous part-time employees.

“I can’t run my office on the amount that you’ve cut me,” she said.

Commissioner Mika Milburn said that they were taking her back to the 2023 budget situation.

Holdridge said she could make up the difference in salary from her department’s budget and asked the county to cover her benefits from the general fund.

The commission decided to move the discussion into an executive session at their next meeting so the employees wouldn’t be identified.

95th Street South of Unique

In July of 2021, the county public works director said that the county would maintain a portion of the drive to help the other landowner get to his field. Title insurance can’t be issued based on the minutes of a meeting, but needs a resolution that the commission will do the maintenance, or will not.

County Attorney Bob Johnson asked for the reason the commission needs to make a resolution. Milburn explained that one property owner wants to sell the back half of their lot and wants to make sure it’s not landlocked. Holdridge left in the middle of discussion as Milburn and Beerbower talked it over.

The commission agreed that it was not in the best interests of the county to make the resolution.

Executive Session: Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual non-elected personnel to protect their privacy. Tran requests the meeting with the three commissioners and counsel for 25 minutes.

The commission returned to session with action. Tran made motion to engage Dr. Cohen on the issue for administrative action and the motion carried.

Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda

An audience member gave a shout out to the mower at the corner of 135th and Poplar Road. He did an outstanding job and it was greatly appreciated.

Old Business
Mapleton Road

Union Street runs north and south, connecting HWY 31 to 125th in Mapleton.

Public comments from Mike Houston at an earlier meeting asked the county to maintain Union Street, which the county has historically done. He said that the town no longer has the grant they had used to fund the maintenance of the road, so he asked if the county could take it back over.

Commissioner Samuel Tran went to see the road and spoke with Public Works personnel.

“It needs help,” said Tran. He said when he asked, records show it hasn’t been maintained by the county in recent history.

Tran’s information said it would cost the county $36,729 to pave Union Street in Mapleton from Hwy 31 to 125th.

He compared it to the paving of Maple Road from where it enters Union Town to where it hits Hwy 3 because it’s an interconnecting road, like Union Street.

Tran advocated for the county to do the patching of the road. He also warned that requests like this should be taken on a case-by-case basis, but he also said that it is important to leave the county better than they found it.

Beerbower said that this road is not on the current asphalt plan, but could be reviewed next year when the commission reaches 5 members.

Milburn asked how the small municipalities patch their roads. “They don’t” was the short answer.

Audience member, Mr. Walker, said it’s a highly traveled road and also a school bus route.

A representative from EMS also spoke up and said they use it to service the EMS needs of the county too.

Tran asked for permission to tell public works to do it if they have the time and resources to get it done this year, and also talk to the city of Mapleton about possibly paying for the materials.

The issue was tabled until next week

Software program

Beerbower received an email from Diligent offering digital services for government use, including streaming and agenda building. The cost, starting at $8,500, is prohibitive for the county at this time.

Tran said they should hold off due to current projects with Stronghold. “We have a lot on our plate and we still have a budget to get done,” said Tran.

Susan Walker said that the Adobe agenda she sends out allows you to jump to attachments. The SharePoint platform the county uses offers agenda building already. She also cautioned that putting all of their agenda and minutes on the website causes the website to run out of space, leading to frequent archiving.

Beerbower said he would reach out to Diligent and tell them the county cannot use their services at this time.

Hospital Equipment Update

Beerbower said there are three unsold lots from the govdeals auction program. The commission decided to list them a third and final time and dispose of the items if they don’t sell in the next auction cycle.

Security Cameras

Beerbower asked if the county has a security camera policy in place.  He wants to make sure that the policy doesn’t violate employees’ privacy. He will talk with Dr. Cohen, the county’s HR department, and bring it back in two weeks.

Craw-Kan

The commission decided to have counsel look at their contract with Craw-Kan so they can add an exit clause for the county.

Elm Creek Quarry

Tran, commission liaison to the public works department asked if the commissioners would approve the opening up of a quarry at Elm Creek Lake, which was directed by the board of commissioners two boards ago. The original plan was to have been executed in May of 2025.

Beerbower said he was a part of that commission and approved the initial proposal after assurances were made to citizens in the area regarding noise and dust control. He then stated that he has been opposed to the county owning its own quarry since he campaigned for office. He has doubts about the viability of the quarry and its benefit to the county. He asked for a comprehensive cost and environmental analysis to determine if it would benefit the county.

Tran said it would remove the competition with the private sector, providing 45+ years of rock. He also said that the county has all state-required documentation and engineer approval.

Beerbower expressed concerned about the impact on the usability of the lake.

“I’m going to keep opposing county-owned rock quarries until somebody can show me numbers from a third party that isn’t biased towards one way or the other,” he reiterated.

Tran said the possibility of losing the two quarries they currently lease (one of them may be played out soon) means the county should at least consider the Elm Creek Lake option.

Beerbower said he understands wanting to have the county own the quarry so they can’t be burned by leasing them. He asked if any counties in their area own their own quarries.

Mr. Smith, former licensed professional engineer in the audience, asked who the approving engineer was. He said it should not have been approved without an economic discussion for the county and an environmental discussion for the state.

He also announced he would be running for county commissioner in the upcoming election as a write-in candidate.

Mr. Walker, who lives next to a rock quarry, thinks people overblow the traffic and noise caused by quarries. He said they are a sign of improvement for the county. He also said the roads have improved tremendously under the previous public works director, and expressed concern that the county is going backwards without access to enough rock.

Tran said he wants to table the issue indefinitely and get more information.

Freeman Agreement

Beerbower made a motion to approve the second amendment to the Emergency Department Funding Agreement, amending the agreements from Dec. 5, 2024 and May 12, 2025. Quarterly itemized accounting will be provided to the county by Freeman and some of the information will not be able to be released to the public as the hospital is now operating, and that information will be about private individuals.

It was approved.

Act/Web Page Access

Milburn said the county web page has a single administrator and needs another. She said the county also needs another account holder for CrawKan and Verizon, as well as another administrator for the county’s Facebook page.

She asked if Beerbower was willing, then moved to make him a full admin of those accounts. Motion carried.

New Business

Freeman/EMS

Milburn explained that when Mercy had a hospital in Fort Scott, it also managed the EMS department. Freeman is willing to talk with Bourbon County about doing so as well.

Tran asked what the end goal of moving EMS over to Freeman is. Milburn said if the financial burden on the county can be lifted and the services provided to the citizens maintained, it would be good for Bourbon County to transfer the burden to Freeman.

Tran asked what would happen if Freeman went “belly up.” Milburn said the county would take it back on. Tran asked if it would be painful to do so.

“Nothing’s painless…everything here is painful,” said Milburn.

Milburn said she’s asking to continue to have conversations with Freeman and wants to know if the commission will listen. Tran said he would listen.

Beerbower said he is not in favor of it. One reason is that the hospital just opened and it’s premature to ask them. EMS isn’t a burden, nor a tax-levy-funded department, and their income will go up due to an increase in transfers from Freeman. He wants to wait another year to see how things are going. He doesn’t want to have to start all over again with the county running EMS.

“I think we’re rushing it,” said Beerbower. He advocated for waiting until they had five-commission board.

“You’ve already crossed the line,” he said, when Milburn asked if wanted her to stop gathering information to bring to the board. He said that as the liaison to Freeman, a management method recommended by county HR director, Dr. Cohen, he should have been asked to work on the issue.

“So you want me to ask for permission to find ways to save this county money?” asked Milburn.

“I want you to not step on somebody else’s toes doing it,” replied Beerbower.

Tran stepped in and asked everybody to step back and take a deep breath. He claimed to understand each of the other commissioner’s position. He said they need to remember to work as a team.

He agreed that it is premature to hand over EMS to Freeman.

He also said that the reason Freeman is willing to talk is because Milburn is a sitting commissioner, but that they have taken on more monetarily than is currently known.

Greg Motley said he had spoken to Freeman about this issue, but they really don’t have any interest in taking on EMS right now. “They are sinking big money into this project,” he said of the hospital, and they have fewer personnel than Mercy had. The correct timing of this discussion should be after they get their cash flow up and running.

Anne Dare spoke up and said the commission should stick with the liaison positions and stop confusing the county. The commission should also watch how they treat each other. “I would really like for you to get back to those responsibilities,” she said.

Terry, EMS director asked: “Where has EMS cost the county money outside of what you subsidize?” She said she saved the county $165,000 in grants in the last year. The county is required by state statute to subsidize anybody, whether the county or Freeman. Last year it cost $212,000. When Mercy was in charge of EMS, the county subsidized them by almost $350,000.

Milburn said she couldn’t see why people were so offended by the topic. She claimed that she brought it up multiple times in past meetings, and the purpose of the conversations is just to explore options.

Tran said that change scares people and brings out their defensiveness.

“The bottom line is this: that you had a liaison process that you overstepped and you’re going to try to justify it saying that you brought it before this board before,” said Beerbower as Milburn interrupted, saying she wouldn’t accept his comment.

“As far as I’m concerned, we’re done,” said Beerbower.

No further action was taken.

190th Street – Milburn

Milburn said a taxpayer reached out to her, asking that the county consider creating a benefit district to maintain the private road he lives on. He and the other three homeowners would pay the county for the maintenance. County Counsel will advise, Sept. 29

Planning Commission Selection Process

Beerbower asked if the other commissioners were ready to make their selections. Per the resolution, each commissioner was to have two members and the commission as a whole would vote on the seventh member.

Milburn was not ready, as she had to check the districts of the people she wanted to appoint.

The item was tabled until the next meeting, Sept. 15.

Commission Comments

Milburn thanked her fellow commissioners and the citizens of Bourbon County for putting in the work to make necessary changes to improve the county.

Bourbon County

Revised Agenda for the Bo Co Commission Sept. 8

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BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
September 08, 2025, 5:30 PM (Revised)
I. Call Meeting to Order
 Roll Call
 Pledge of Allegiance
 Prayer
II. Discussion of meeting limits-Beerbower
III. Approval of Agenda
IV. Approval of Minutes 08/25/25 & 08/29/25
V. Consent Agenda
 Approval of 09.05.25Accounts Payable Totaling $308,641.44
 Approval of 09.05.25 Payroll Totaling $326,473.16
VI. Lora Holdridge-Budget Question
VII. 95th Street South of Unique – ROD & Security 1st
VIII. Executive Session: Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected
personnel to protect their privacy. Tran
IX. Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship. Milburn
X. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda
XI. Old Business
 Mapleton Road – Beerbower
 Phone System -Beerbower
 Software program – Beerbower
 Hospital Equipment Update – Beerbower
 FSACF Grant – Beerbower
 Security Camera’s – Beerbower
 Craw-Kan
 Elm Creek Quarry
 Freeman Agreement – Beerbower
 Act/Web Page Access – Milburn
XII. New Business
 Salary Resolution – Milburn
 North Crawford St. – Beerbower
 Eagle Road – Beerbower
 Freeman/EMS – Milburn
 109th Street – Milburn
 Opioid Settlement – Milburn
 Planning Commission Selection Process – Beerbower
 Agenda-Clerk
XIII. Commission Comments
XIV. Adjournment _____________
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether
or not in consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of
corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of
such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.

Bourbon County

Fall Plant and Bulb Sale at the Farmers’ Market Sept. 13

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Submitted photo of a plant start that will be for sale at the farmers market this Saturday.

Want to add some perennials to your landscape next year?

The Bourbon County Garden Club members will be thinning their garden to benefit the community projects they maintain in Fort Scott.

“The plants dug from our gardens will be perennials, including iris, daylilies, coreopsis, ornamental grasses, and sedum,” said Martha Jane Gentry, a spokesperson for the group. “We never know in advance!”

The focus of their sale at the Fort Scott Farmers Market on Saturday,  Sept. 13 is mainly bulb sales, she said. They will include a variety of types and colors, with different bloom times.

The hypertufa pots are rustic pots that can be used inside or outside. These were made by club members.

The farmers market is held on Tuesday evenings from 4-6 and Saturday mornings from 8 a.m. until noon,  during the growing season.

Proceeds from the sale will support beautification efforts throughout the community, including the city pool islands, Heritage Park, and the North Main Street area.

Tulip bulbs will be one of the types of perennials sold at the farmers market this Saturday, Sept. 13. Submitted photo.

A variety of high quality, jumbo nursery bulbs will be available, including crocus, several types of tulips, daffodils, and allium, she said.

“Of special local interest are two varieties of red tulips, perfect for Tiger, Pittsburg State University, and Chiefs’ fans. All of the bulbs should be planted this fall, but will bloom at various times next spring and in early summer.”

Bulbs will be sold in bags of six, and some will be purchased individually.

The garden club has also partnered with Tri Valley Developmental Services to sell pansies and ornamental kale, both of which are popular for fall planting.

Also available are plants freshly dug from club members’ own gardens, in addition to house plants.

Other items, including garden-oriented books, magazines, and handmade hypertufa pots, will be sold.

“The hypertufa pots are rustic pots that can be used inside or outside. These were made by club members,” she said.

Knowledgeable members and Kansas Master Gardeners will be on hand during the sale to offer advice and answer questions about plants.

The Bourbon County Garden Club sold plants at the first Fort Scott Farmers Market of 2025 and will be selling this Saturday, September 13. From its Facebook page.

 

The Bourbon County Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month, March through October. Like them on Facebook for news, meeting announcements, and photos.

The Bourbon County Garden Club met at the Common Grounds Coffee Shop in May 2022 photo. Taken from the clubs Facebook page.

 

 

 

 

Government, Kansas

Help With Wireless phone service, Interne plan

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Lifeline program helps Kansans in need stay connected

TOPEKA – Phone and internet services are vital to accessing healthcare and community services, finding employment, and calling for help in an emergency. However, the cost to stay connected is out of reach for many Kansans.

In observance of National Digital Connectivity and Lifeline Awareness Week, September 7-13, the Kansas Corporation Commission joins utility regulators nationwide in creating awareness of the program offerings and encourages those in need of assistance to apply.

Lifeline provides combined federal and state discounts of up to $17.02 per month to help pay for residential or wireless phone service, internet, or a bundled phone and internet plan. Subscribers living on tribal lands qualify for additional discounts. Currently, nearly 8.6 million Americans, including 19,500 Kansans, are enrolled in the program.

Eligibility is based on income (at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines) or participation in certain assistance programs such as:

  • Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
  • Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
  • Federal Public Housing Assistance (FHPA)
  • Veterans Pension & Survivors Pension Benefit
  • Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
  • Tribally Administered Temporary Assistance for Needy Families
  • Head Start Tribal Programs (income based)
  • The Food Distribution Program on Tribal Lands

In addition, the Safe Connections Act (SCA) of 2022 helps survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking and related crimes get discounted phone, internet or bundled services through the Lifeline program. Those who qualify under SCA can receive up to six months of emergency Lifeline support and their privacy will be protected. Details are available at https://www.lifelinesupport.org/survivor-benefit/.

More information on income eligibility, participating Lifeline providers, and the enrollment process is available on the KCC’s website or by calling 800-662-0027.

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Bourbon County, Business

Kansas U. Partners With Healthy Bourbon County Action Team

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KU School of Business partners with Healthy Bourbon County Action Team to strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystem in southeast Kansas

Van traveling down Kansas highway in fall, sun setting in background.
Credit: KU Marketing

LAWRENCE — The University of Kansas School of Business has launched a collaboration with a Bourbon County organization to support local entrepreneurs and small business owners.

The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT), an organization dedicated to building a healthy, thriving workforce, will work with KU Business entrepreneurship programs both to identify community business projects for student engagement and to access programmatic resources. The collaboration allows KU students to gain hands-on experience while HBCAT and its community partners benefit from KU’s expertise, tools and support for entrepreneurial development.

“Our partnership with the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team exemplifies KU’s commitment to fostering economic development throughout Kansas while enhancing the student learning experience,” said KU School of Business Dean Jide Wintoki. “Our students get to apply their business expertise to support small but growing companies, with the potential to generate new jobs in the region. It’s a powerful way to strengthen our students’ professional skills while creating meaningful impact in the state.”

The partnership will support Bourbon County businesses through three tailored pathways, each grounded in a KU Business entrepreneurship co-curricular program.

  • Jayhawk Consulting: HBCAT will identify local startups and small businesses that could benefit from student-led consulting services.
  • RedTire (Redefine your Retirement): HBCAT will connect with businesses nearing an ownership transition and work with KU’s RedTire team to assess fit for the program’s comprehensive business valuation and succession planning services.
  • The Catalyst: HBCAT will help launch a locally led version of KU’s program, which supports aspiring entrepreneurs through mentorship and venture development. KU will provide HBCAT with training and resources on curriculum and program management, with the first Bourbon County Catalyst cohort expected to launch in spring 2026.

Through this partnership, KU students will gain a stronger connection to and understanding of Kansas’ economic landscape while contributing to its continued growth.

“Our entrepreneurs have been clear about what they need: more guidance, more support and more opportunities to grow,” said Jody Love, HBCAT president and CEO. “Partnering with KU allows us to respond directly to those needs and ensure that small businesses in southeast Kansas have the resources to succeed.”

The KU School of Business provides entrepreneurial curricular and co-curricular education to students of every major and across all stages of interest, from those exploring new ideas to those actively launching ventures. Students learn to solve meaningful problems with purpose and creativity, building a mindset that equips them to thrive in any career path.

More information about KU Business entrepreneurship programs can be found at the school’s entrepreneurship webp

Submitted by Jody Love

Area News, Freeman Fort Scott Hospital

Freeman Appoints New Vice President of Imaging Services

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submitted photo.

Hector Juarez Brings Extensive Experience to Key Community Service

                                     

JOPLIN, Mo. – Freeman officials are proud to announce the appointment of Hector Juarez as Freeman Health System’s new Vice President of Imaging following an extensive nationwide search.

Juarez brings vast experience to Joplin’s largest employer, having overseen multi-site imaging operations while supervising more than 30 facilities across multiple markets during his career.

“I am ecstatic to be part of Freeman Health System,” Juarez said, who starts this week. “I look forward to working with our teams to expand imaging services and ensure our surrounding communities have access to high quality, innovative care.”

Prior to moving to Southwest Missouri, Juarez successfully directed daily operations of more than 350 employees across 16 departments at Memorial Hermann Texas Medical Center, one of the nation’s busiest Level I trauma centers. He directed one of Houston’s largest and most complex imaging programs, performing more than 372,000 examinations annually and leading initiatives that improved efficiency, expanded access, and enhanced patient experience. As the flagship facility of the Memorial Hermann Health System, TMC anchors one of Texas’ largest not-for-profit health systems, comprising 17 hospitals, eight cancer centers, and three heart institutes.

“We’re excited to welcome Hector to Freeman Health System as our new Vice President of Imaging,” said Freeman President and Chief Executive Officer Matt Fry. “His deep expertise and engaging leadership style will help shape our future and ensure we are able to provide exceptional care to our patients.”

Hector holds a Master of Science in Healthcare Administration from Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center and a Bachelor of Science in Radiologic Sciences from Midwestern State University. He is credentialed by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists as both a Registered Radiologic Technologist and a Registered Computed Tomography Technologist.

“I believe in leading imaging services through collaboration that blends data driven strategy with a people first approach,” Juarez said of his vision for Freeman’s imaging services moving forward. “When leaders invest in their teams, excellence in patient care naturally follows.”

Freeman, accredited by the American College of Radiology, offers a full range of services that include state-of-the-art computed radiography, computed tomography (CT), stationary positron tomograph/computed tomography (PET/CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), ultrasound, digital mammography – including the region’s first use of the GE Healthcare’s Senographe Pristina™ Dueta 3-D mammography system – and diagnostic angiography.

“As technology continues to evolve, we want to make imaging more accessible, more efficient, and more robust, ensuring patients across our region have access to the very best imaging services,” Juarez said.

His goal for Freeman Health System is a simple one: “I want to advance imaging as both a clinical and community resource, aligning our services with Freeman’s strategic planning, growth, and improving the overall patient experience.”

 

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About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanhealth.com.

 

Opinion

Pigpen Shenanigans by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

Pigpen Shenanigans

On the morning of July 5, my son Aaron, daughter Mariam, son-in-law Levi, and I made plans to go car shopping for me. While Mariam attended to the outside morning chores, the rest of us were just shooting the breeze as we waited for her. Pretty soon, Mariam walks into the living room and joins in on our conversation, although she doesn’t take a seat. I was distracted with the idea of shopping and didn’t really think about the unique artistic design on her t-shirt until her husband and brother asked, “Is that mud on your shirt?” “Yes,” she answered. (I don’t think she even rolled her eyes.)

Mariam explained that she’d previously separated the momma pig from the baby pig because it needed to be weaned. Therefore, the sow and boar were together in a separate pigpen and the big-fat baby was in her own pen. However, during the evening of the 4th of July, the baby got scared out of her wits and managed to escape and crawl into the parent’s pigpen. So, Mariam had fallen down in the muddy pigpen trying to grab the baby so she could put her back where she belonged. Needless to say, we spared no high-spirited laughter as she told her pigpen story in detail. Even though we’re a close-knit family, not a one of us had any compassion or sympathy for her!

I love a good story when there’s ample details to envision what’s being told. Many times Jesus used parables to explain life-changing lessons to His listeners. Perhaps one of His most-popular parables was about the “prodigal/lost son” in the Book of Luke. A man had two sons and the younger one wanted his inheritance before his father died. The father agreed and a few days later the son went to a distant country and wasted all his money on wild living. When he ran out of money, a terrible famine hit and he began to starve. He found a farmer who agreed to hire him to feed his pigs. When the young son became so hungry that he wished he could eat the pigs’ bean pods, he finally came to his senses. Welp, better late than never.

“So he returned home to his father. And while he was still a long way off, his father saw him coming. Filled with love and compassion, he ran to his son, embraced him, and kissed him. His son said to him, ‘Father, I have sinned against both heaven and you, and I am no longer worthy of being called your son.’ But his father said to the servants, ‘Quick! Bring the finest robe in the house and put it on him. Get a ring for his finger and sandals for his feet. And kill the calf we have been fattening. We must celebrate with a feast, for this son of mine was dead and has now returned to life. He was lost, but now he is found.’ So the party began” (Luke 15:20-24 NLT).

The choices we make can either “make or break” our life. The #1 choice is to choose to follow Jesus. The prodigal son chose to take the money and run from his loving father. This turned out to be a poor choice because the son wasn’t mature enough to wisely handle life. But the good thing is that he later made the right choice to return to the love and care of his father. As long as there’s breath and an ounce of sense, there’s hope in God’s open arms of mercy and forgiveness for our sins and stupid choices. No matter what you or I have done, the Father is waiting and watching for us to come back home.

The Key: It’s not over ‘til the fat piggy sings.

Bourbon County

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Sept. 8, 2025

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commission Agenda – September 8, 2025

09.08.25 Agenda copy

Meeting Details:

  • Date: September 8, 2025
  • Time: 5:30 PM
  • Location: Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave., Bourbon County, Kansas

Agenda Outline

I. Call Meeting to Order

II. Discussion of meeting limits – Beerbower

III. Approval of Agenda

IV. Approval of Minutes 08/25/25 & 08/29/25

V. Consent Agenda

* Approval of 09.05.25 Accounts Payable Totaling $308,641.44

* Approval of 09.05.25 Payroll Totaling $326,473.16

VI. Lora Holdridge – Budget Question

VII. Executive Session: Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b) (1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

VIII. Public Comments for Items Not on The Agenda

IX. Old Business

* Mapleton Road – Beerbower

* Phone System – Beerbower

* Software program – Beerbower

* Stronghold

* FSACF Grant – Beerbower

* Security Camera’s – Beerbower

* Craw-Kan

* Elm Creek Quarry

* Freeman Agreement

X. New Business

* North Crawford St. – Beerbower

* Eagle Road – Beerbower

* 95th Street South of Unique – ROD & Security 1st

* Opioid Settlement

* Planning Commission Selection Process

* Agenda – Clerk

XI. Commission Comments

XII. Adjournment

Bourbon County, Business

Local Business Personalizes Items For Clients: TAOS, LLC

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Scott and Ashley Shelton, with their children. Submitted photo.
TOAS, LLC is a new family-owned local business that provides custom laser-engraved items with the customer’s design.
“Toas is the first initial of the names in our family,” said Scott Shelton, co-owner with his wife, Ashley, of the business.
“We provide a wide array of products,” he said.  “From hats, cups, keychains, insulated can sleeves, pet collars, bottle openers, fridge magnets, wood products, signs, and more.  We also make stained glass items.”
They have the industrial laser machine at their rural residence and share duties when they are not working their full-time jobs.
A customized dog collar from its Facebook page.
“We offer products for the folks of Bourbon County and beyond to promote their business, support their teams, or anything they would like to express.”
From its Facebook page.
” I started the business as an additional revenue stream and income for when I retire from the fire department in a few years,” he said.
“We keep our Facebook page ( https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558839424305 )updated with everything we’ve made currently.  That’s the best place to see what kind of items we offer.”
Contact info: 620-215-1874 or [email protected] or
toasdesigns.com.
From its Facebook page.

Scott Shelton is a full-time fireman with the Fort Scott Fire Department, and Ashley works full-time in an accounting office.

 

K-State Extension

Feeling Stretched as a Caregiver? by Tara Solomon-Smith

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Tara Soloman-Smith, Family and Wellness Agent, Sunflower District of Kansas State University’s Extension Office. Submitted photo.

Feeling Stretched as a Caregiver?

It’s a fact, caregivers have higher levels of stress than non-caregivers. If you are serving as a caregiver to a loved one, I want you to know you are fulfilling a valuable role! I also want you to know that it is ok to take care of yourself, too. We can help with that!

In partnership with the Alzheimer’s Association, K-State Extension is providing an Empowered Caregivers two-part series. This program is designed to help reduce stress, build a caregiver foundation, support independence, communicate effectively, balance life, increase the ability to make tough decisions, and locate helpful resources.

Free meal and classes will be held on Tuesdays, October 7th and 14th, from 6:00-8:00 pm Register by calling 620-244-3826.

While we can’t stop stress from occurring, we can help manage it. Too much stress, especially over a long time, can harm your health. You may not get enough sleep or physical activity, or eat a balanced diet, which increases your risk of medical problems.

The following are some ideas to help you manage your caregiver stress:

  • Take a break from caregiving. Take a walk or meet up with a friend. Do something not related to caregiving.
  • Get support. Attend a support group, have a friend you can call just to let off steam, or look for community resources.
  • Relax. Read a book, meditate, pray, garden, knit, take a long bath.
  • Take care of your health. Go to the doctor, get routine exams and flu shots, get enough sleep, and eat your fruits and vegetables. 
  • Change “guilt” to “regret.” Guilt means you did something wrong, regret means that you are in a difficult situation, and sometimes you have to make difficult decisions, but they are not wrong.
  • Forgive yourself—often. You cannot be a perfect caregiver all day, every day.
  • Ask for and accept help when offered. No one can do this alone. We often don’t know what to say when someone offers help. Prepare for this and create a task list to have ready. When someone asks you if they can help, refer to your list and say “YES.” Let them choose which task on the list they would like to do!
  • And finally….Laugh. Find ways to keep your sense of humor on a daily basis.

For more information, please contact Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], 620-244-3826.

Bourbon County

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Meeting Minutes

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Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes

 

September 3, 2025

 

 

  1.  Welcome: Twenty-three members representing sixteen agencies attended the meeting held at the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:
  • Janice Durbin – Head Start- Head Start provides home-based and center-based education services to children up to age 5.
  • Cheyanne Bolin – Head Start
  • Theresa Amershek – Child Exchange & Visitation Center (Safehouse)
  • Ana Salas, Advocate – Safehouse Pittsburg
  • Dave Gillen – Beacon – The Beacon provides food assistance, hygiene items, taxi passes, gas vouchers, and financial aid. The Beacon is open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9:00-1:00.  The Beacon served 20 new families in August, and provided $2743 in financial assistance.
  • Bryan Cook, Crisis Team Director – Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
  • Kym Hargrove, Manager of Adult Services- Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
  • Christa Vaughn, Children’s Case Management Services Team Lead – Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
  • April Jackson – SEK Recovery Resources & Thrive Allen County – Provide services to aid harm reduction, such as: naloxone, fentanyl test strips. These can be found in the vending machine outside the Bourbon County Health Dept.
  • Christine Abott- SE KANSASWORKS – Staff are in the Fort Scott office (located in HBCAT building) on Tuesdays.  They can provide help with resume building, GED, and job searches.  SE KANSASWORKS is always looking for clients who need assistance with training.  The CDL program is running in Fort Scott.  KANASWORKS can assist with the cost of the program.
  • Stephanie Breckenridge – Bourbon County Response Advocate- Stephanie works in homes to keep children safe
  • Star Culp – Parents as Teachers – PAT recently added an additional educator in Bourbon County, so more spots are available.
  • Patty Simpson – Fort Scott Housing Authority – FSHA has 190 income-based apartments. All units are currently full, and there is a short waiting list of approximately 1-3 months.
  • Kathy Romero – Angels Home Health – Angels Home Health serves five counties in SEK. They have specialty programs that most other companies do not have.  Angels Home Health and Medicalodge will be hosting a Senior Expo in Crawford County from 9:00-1:00 on September 24th.  The Expo will take place at the Pittsburg YMCA.  They are hoping to do another Senior Expo in Bourbon County in the future.
  • Cherri Walrod, Community Health Worker – K-State Extension – Cherri can assist clients with the SNAP app, medical paperwork, and fill in gaps in services. Cherri leads a support group for parents with special needs kids.  She helps find resources for kids with special needs. Her position is grant-funded through the end of the year.
  • Michelle Stevenson – Fort Scott Early Childhood Program- FSECP is funded by the Early Childhood Block Grant. Michelle works with families prenatal-6.  She assists with tracking development and offers early learning activities.  Michelle is a resource for parents and can help connect families with additional resources as needed.
  • Janelle Tate – Early Childhood Block Grant
  • Kelli Mengarelli – Family Resource Center/Early Childhood Block Grant – ECBG works with preschools and childcare providers in six counties in SEK.
  • Dee Dee LeFever, Community Liaison – Greenbush
  • Kathy Brennon – SEK Area Agency on Aging – SEK AAA is hosting an Aging=Living Event for seniors and their families. The event will take place from 9:00-3:00 on October 22 in Chanute.  Topics will include legal tips for fraud and scam prevention, a Golden Bats exercise demo, and a meal.  The fee for the event is $10.
  • Shanda Stewart- Clear Path Recovery Center- Clear Path is an adult recovery center in Nevada, MO. Doors will open on September 10.  Clear Path will be one of only a few centers in the area to provide medical detox services.  Patients will be able to stay up to 30 days.  Clear Path will start with 8 beds, with plans to expand to 30 beds in the future. They will offer coed services where couples can recover together.

 

 

 

  1.  Program:  Shanda Stewart & Abby Stepps – Kansas Renewal Institute-

 

Kansas Renewal Institute is a Psychiatric Rehabilitation Treatment Facility in the old Mercy Hospital building.  KRI is not a detention center like the one in Girard. KRI opened in January of 2024 and accepted its first resident on May 13, 2024.  They have served approximately 160 children since that time.  KRI is licensed to serve children ages  8-22.  Kids are now initially approved for 60 days, and the average stay is about 158 days.   54 kids are currently attending KRI, which has a capacity of 58 beds. The original contract with the state of Kansas limited students to Kansas residents only; now, about 90% of kids are from Kansas, but KRI can take kids from all states.  KRI currently employs about 125 people. Kids live in the facility full-time, so  Abby makes sure kids are entertained in healthy ways.  Kids belong to multiple groups, one being an activity group.  Staff try to integrate kids into community activities and have guests come into the facility to interact with kids. Kids go to the movie theater once a month, and are going bowling later this month. USD 234 provides education services on-site. School takes place Monday through Thursday from 8:30-3:30. Students participate in Individualized learning online through USD 234, teachers and paras are on-site.  Students also attend special classes such as music, art, PE.   KRI is working with Freeman to add acute care services.  This would provide an additional  8 beds for kids in crisis.  Kids would be served one-on-one on a case-by-case basis for a few days. KRI employs therapists, nurse practitioners, case managers, behavioral health techs, housekeeping staff, and kitchen staff.   The community has been very gracious with donations, and they are very appreciated.  Check the Kansas Renewal Institute’s Facebook page to learn more about what is going on at the facility.

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:  Nothing further came before the membership.

 

 

  1.  Adjournment:  The next General Membership meeting will be October 1, 2025.