Ks Governor Sues Attorney General

Governor Kelly Sues Attorney General Kobach in Kansas Supreme Court to Protect
Governor’s Constitutional Authority


TOPEKA
– Today, Governor Laura Kelly filed a lawsuit against Attorney General Kris Kobach in the Kansas Supreme Court to protect the State of Kansas and the constitutional powers of the Office of the Governor. The lawsuit is necessary due to Attorney General Kobach’s failure to defend Kansans against the Trump Administration’s unlawful federal overreach, despite repeated requests from Governor Kelly to do so.

“Time and again, Attorney General Kobach’s blatant partisanship is on display, harming and embarrassing Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “While he was quick to sue the previous presidential administration, alleging he would protect Kansans from federal overreach, he has not once followed through on that claim now that the Trump Administration has repeatedly done just that. Not only has the Attorney General’s willful ignorance undermined my administration’s efforts to protect Kansans, but it has also cost our state millions of dollars for essential programs and services. If the Attorney General refuses to stand up for Kansas, at least Kansans can rest assured knowing that I will.”

The Attorney General’s refusal to stand up for the State of Kansas has prompted Governor Kelly to join two recent federal lawsuits. The most recent being the lawsuit against the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) seeking release of congressionally approved emergency funds for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, which provides food assistance to nearly 188,000 Kansans. November benefits for this program are not expected to be available due to the ongoing federal government shutdown. This unprecedented choice made by the Trump Administration and Congress will have dire consequences for the health and well-being of millions across the country, who rely on the program to feed themselves and their families. More information about this lawsuit can be found here.

In August, Governor Kelly also joined a lawsuit seeking to prevent the Trump Administration from unlawfully terminating congressionally approved funds for several public health and safety programs including testing for lead in schools and child care facilities, environmental cleanup, ensuring the safety of dams, and financing to improve drinking water safety. More information about this lawsuit can be found here.

In September, Attorney General Kobach filed suit against Governor Kelly and the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) asking the court to force the Governor and DCF to turn over the personal information of thousands of Kansans in response to an unlawful federal request. Governor Kelly and DCF successfully dismissed Attorney General Kobach’s egregious attempt to compromise the privacy of thousands of Kansans.

Attorney General Kobach has previously incorrectly asserted that he alone controls litigation on behalf of the State of Kansas. The Kansas Constitution makes clear that the governor is the ‘supreme executive’ of the state, meaning that Governor Kelly has the constitutional authority to control the decisions of the executive branch.

The lawsuit Governor Kelly filed today asks the Kansas Supreme Court for an order in quo warranto against the Attorney General to prevent him from intruding on the Governor’s ‘supreme executive’ power as the head of the executive branch so she can continue to defend Kansans without interference from Attorney General Kobach.

A copy of the lawsuit’s petition can be found here and a copy of the memorandum in support can be found here.

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Letter to the Editor: Mika Milburn-Kee

 

In reflection of this week’s meeting, we covered a lot of important topics, and I’d like to expand my perspective a little, regarding several of them.

I fully understand and share the frustration of residents who are being affected by the constant noise from industrial operations like Bitcoin mining. No one should have to lose sleep or peace in their own home. At the same time, the Commission needs to be very careful about creating new noise resolutions or restrictions that could unintentionally impact farmers, small businesses, and others. Because our county is not zoned, we don’t currently have a framework to distinguish between residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses. That’s one reason this issue is so challenging. Rather than rushing to pass new regulations that might limit everyone, I believe we need to look for solutions that directly address the immediate problem while we work toward a balanced, well-thought-out long-term plan. I must respect both the rights – and the quality of life of the people who live here. I don’t believe government should overreach, I do believe in being good neighbors, whether individuals or companies, we need to be working together to make our community a great place to live. I’ve also observed some unrest regarding the commission’s decision to modify our payroll process. While it’s common for transitions like this to generate discussion, I believe the degree of unrest expressed is not fully justified given the intent and expected outcomes of the change.

After our update from our IT partner, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made in transitioning to managed IT services. This move modernizes our technology and stands to align the county with current industry standards, an important step toward greater efficiency and security.

I appreciate our Sheriff and his team from Enterprise for taking the time to present information to the commission and for their continued efforts to provide additional details. However, at this point, I’m still not comfortable supporting the proposed lease agreement and here’s why; the cost figures we’ve received so far have varied from meeting to meeting, and we still don’t have a clear plan for how the county would fund this long-term. Until we have consistent numbers and a comprehensive funding proposal, I believe it’s more responsible to continue with our current approach of purchasing as needed. I look forward to reviewing a complete and accurate cost analysis and funding recommendation from the Sheriff’s Office at our next meeting.

Health insurance costs are also rising again this year. According to our broker, the county’s insurance pool used about 117% of the premiums we paid in, meaning we paid out more in claims than we collected. As a result, our rates are projected to increase by roughly 17%. We all know how valuable our insurance coverage is, and we want to keep it strong. But with our limited tax base, we simply can’t continue increasing county expenses at that rate. What I’m proposing is that the county continue to pay the same amount toward insurance as last year, (which, according to our broker, is still higher than what comparable employers contribute). Employees would then have the choice to keep their current plan and pay the difference or move to a lower-cost option. I understand that may be frustrating for some, but it’s a responsible step to help us get these costs under control while still offering solid coverage. My goal is to find a fair balance that protects both our employees and the taxpayers who fund these benefits.

I have also fielded questions about why I didn’t support stacking reserves this year. My position is simple, I’ve observed county operations over time and patterns tell me when we levy it, we spend it. Were then no better off the next year when it comes to assets or financial strength. I’m not against planning for the future, but I believe we need a clear, detailed plan for how any new tax dollars or reserve funds would actually be used before we ask our taxpayers for more. That’s just good stewardship.

Citizens of Bourbon County Thank You

Mika Milburn-Kee

 

COMMUNITY FOUNDATION OF SOUTHEAST KANSAS ANNOUNCES WILL NORTON AS NEW DONOR ENGAGEMENT OFFICER

 

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) is excited to announce the hiring of Will Norton as its new Donor Engagement Officer!

Will comes to CFSEK and its affiliates, the Columbus Area Community Foundation, Fort Scott Area Community Foundation, and the Girard Area Community Foundation, with a passion for networking and a love of community. He will be leading CFSEK’s donor engagement efforts, which includes building relationships with donors and organizations to assist them with achieving their charitable goals.

“We are thrilled to welcome Will to the team,” said Devin Gorman, CFSEK Executive Director. “He is a great fit for this newly created position, which will help the Community Foundation provide better engagement and outreach across Southeast Kansas. The more connections we build, the more resources and funds we can provide back to our communities.”

A native of Dallas, but a graduate of Chanute High School, Will attended Pittsburg State University, receiving his undergraduate degree in fitness management and his master’s degree in physical education. He was also a Sigma Chi, where he later served as a chapter advisor. He most recently worked for Backyard Discovery as an account manager.

“I’ve been fortunate to meet a lot of great people in Southeast Kansas,” Will said, “and I am passionate about building relationships with people, so this is right up my alley!”

When Will is not working with donors, he can be found supporting his 3 kids at their school events, playing poker, being a singer in a band, or tinkering with cars.

When asked about his new position, Will had this to say, “I am so excited to get to do some good for this community, because I love this Southeast Kansas community we all get to call home!”

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas has awarded over $2.3 million in grants from all foundation funds in 2025 and has facilitated over $25 million in grants since its inception in 2001. CFSEK serves the region by providing donors with a wide variety of charitable interests and encouraging charitable giving, which addresses present and future needs in our area. More information about CFSEK is available at SoutheastKansas.org.

 

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall Newsletter


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Associated Press: 4 Republicans back Senate resolution to undo Trump’s tariffs around the globe.

RFD-TV: Sen. Roger Marshall: China’s Investment in U.S. Sorghum Could Pressure Mexico to Buy More.

AgriPulse: China to buy 25 million tons of soybeans annually, near recent average.

MSNBC: Drought is causing high beef price: Senator defends Trump’s Argentina plan.

Fox News: We’ve almost got Chuck Schumer where we want him, says Sen. Roger Marshall.

Bloomberg: Trump, Xi Likely to Pursue Trade Truce, Not Transformation, at Summit.

Real Clear Health: Healthcare Price Transparency Is the Shutdown Solution.

Axios: Food giants enlist new allies in war over RFK Jr.’s food dye bans (Axios).

Newsmax: Senators Target Abuse in 340B Drug Discount Plan.

Washington Post: A decade of dramatic GOP change since Paul Ryan became speaker.

Inside Health Policy: Advocates Hopeful Price Transparency Can Be Bipartisan Priority Once APTC Standoff Ends.

JC Post: Reports: China buys several shiploads of U.S. soybeans ahead of Trump trade meeting.

KCLY: Kansas Congressional Delegation Suspends Pay amid Federal Government Shutdown.

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Fox News:
FBI thwarts ‘potential terrorist attack,’ arrests multiple people in Michigan, Patel says.

Newsmax: $12B in Trump Farm Aid Ready but Stalled by Shutdown.

Fox Business: Mortgage rates fall for fourth consecutive week, lowest level in over a year.

Daily Wire: The Nation’s Top Businesses Push For End Of Government Shutdown.

Fox News: Trump’s war on drugs stops at Mexican border — for now.

Newsmax: Trump: Trade Deal With South Korea Reached.

NBC: Pete Hegseth says U.S. carried out another strike on alleged drug boat in Pacific Ocean, killing 4 people.

Fox News: Trial begins over Trump’s fight to deploy National Guard troops to Oregon.

Hays Post: As the Medicare enrollment window opens, a new study gives Missouri, Kansas below-average scores.

KCTV5: Kansas City air traffic controllers speak out as government shutdown continues.

Fox 4: Kansas governor says she won’t get into Chiefs, Royals bidding war.

AP: Venezuela’s Maduro says the US is fabricating a war and seeks to revoke citizenship of opponent.

BBC: Trump raises tariffs on Canadian goods over Reagan advert.

KWCH: Hutchinson firefighter recognized for lifesaving efforts during Disney vacation.

KWCH: Third teen arrested in murder of Kansas congressman’s intern.

Salina Post: The Salvation Army of Salina steps up to meet the need as SNAP assistance remains on hold.

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Governor Kelly Issues Statement on Order in SNAP Benefits Case


TOPEKA
– Governor Laura Kelly today issued the following statement after a federal judge in the U.S. District Court for Massachusetts issued an order finding that the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) must use its Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) contingency funds to fund the program during the ongoing federal government shutdown. The Court also found that if the contingency fund cannot fully fund the program in November, then the federal government must consider other additional funding sources. The USDA has until the end of the day on Monday to let the Court know whether their plan is to partially or fully fund the SNAP program.

“The Court’s decision today makes clear that the Trump Administration has acted unlawfully in its attempt to withhold November SNAP benefits from millions of Americans, including nearly 188,000 Kansans,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The federal government has a legal and moral responsibility to fund this program so Kansans can continue to feed themselves and their families. While this ruling is a step forward, I urge the USDA to act swiftly to comply with this order and issue November benefits to prevent 42 million Americans from going hungry.”

The order comes after Governor Kelly joined a coalition of 22 attorneys general, two governors, and the District of Columbia in suing the Trump Administration for suspending SNAP benefits in a manner that is both contrary to law and arbitrary and capricious under the Administrative Procedure Act.

Today’s order makes clear that USDA must use contingency funds to pay for SNAP benefits. The USDA must present a plan to the court by Monday, November 3, to begin issuing SNAP benefits (full or partial).

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Special Fort Scott Commission Meeting On November 1

NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR SPECIAL

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

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

November 1, 2025  –  10:15 A.M.

              

        

                                                          

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call

 

  1. Pledge of Allegiance

 

III.       Approval of Agenda

 

  1. Executive Session

 

 

 

  1. Reports and Comments

 

 

  1. Adjourn

 

 

 

KS Commerce Launches New Program to Power Research, Innovation

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program (Phases 0 and 1), a new initiative to help Kansas innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers compete and win in the national innovation arena. The program will enable Kansas to leverage federal funding and research and development opportunities more effectively through strategic partnerships that help companies enhance their global competitiveness while strengthening the state’s role in advancing national security.

“As called for in the Kansas Framework for Growth, this program will allow strategic investments in our state’s innovation economy and our talented innovators,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By supporting high-quality proposals and helping Kansas companies commercialize their technologies, we are strengthening our state’s competitive edge and attracting impactful federal funding to support innovation, research and technology development.”

The program brings together a consortium of support partners – Kansas Office of Innovation, Kansas FAST Program, Kansas Small Business Administration, Kansas Small Business Development Center, Kansas EPSCOR, Network Kansas, KU Innovation Park, Kansas State University, and others – to provide early-stage funding, wrap-around technical assistance, and commercialization support as Kansas-based applicants pursue federal Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) awards. Through the proposal development assistance (Phase 0) and state matching funds for awarded projects (Phase 1), the ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program will help deliver Kansas’ fair share of federal research and development funding.

The highlights of the program include:

  • Funding Available: $250,000
  • Award Amounts for Phase 0: Up to $3,000 per award with a required 50% match
  • Award Amounts for Phase 1: Up to $25,000 (must include proof of federal award)
  • Eligible Applicants: Kansas-based for-profit small businesses that meet all federal SBIR/STTR requirements and conduct at least 51% of Phase 1 research in Kansas

By supporting both early-stage proposal development and successful awardees, the program aims to increase the number, quality and success rate of SBIR and STTR proposals from Kansas and fuel economic growth statewide.

“This program is the direct result of the hard work and advocacy of our growing innovation ecosystem,” Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer Romaine Redman said. “Through the ACCEL-KS – Kansas SBIR/STTR Matching Program, the Office of Innovation is doubling down on its commitment to support Kansas innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers – helping them accelerate the journey from idea to commercialization and bring groundbreaking solutions born right here in Kansas to market.”

Applications opened today, October 31, and will close Friday, November 28.

Prospective applicants are encouraged to join any or all of the information sessions to learn more about the application process and the network of support available to them. Information sessions will take place:

  • Virtual, 11:00 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 5, register here
  • In-person, 11:00 a.m. Monday, Nov. 10, Groover Labs, 334 N. Saint Francis Ave., Wichita
  • In-person, 10:30 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, Innovate 24, 1880 Kimball Ave., Ste 120, Manhattan
  • In-person, 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, Nov. 19, KU Innovation Park, 2029 Becker Dr., Lawrence
  • Virtual, 11:00 a.m. Tuesday, Nov. 25, register here

For more details, application information or questions about the program, visit the website here or contact Brandon Hutton 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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Letter to the Editor: Mika Milburn-Kee

In reflection of this week’s meeting, we covered a lot of important topics, and I’d like to expand my perspective a little, regarding several of them.

I fully understand and share the frustration of residents who are being affected by the constant noise from industrial operations like Bitcoin mining. No one should have to lose sleep or peace in their own home. At the same time, the Commission needs to be very careful about creating new noise resolutions or restrictions that could unintentionally impact farmers, small businesses, and others. Because our county is not zoned, we don’t currently have a framework to distinguish between residential, agricultural, industrial, and commercial uses. That’s one reason this issue is so challenging. Rather than rushing to pass new regulations that might limit everyone, I believe we need to look for solutions that directly address the immediate problem while we work toward a balanced, well-thought-out long-term plan. I must respect both the rights – and the quality of life of the people who live here. I don’t believe government should overreach, I do believe in being good neighbors, whether individuals or companies, we need to be working together to make our community a great place to live. I’ve also observed some unrest regarding the commission’s decision to modify our payroll process. While it’s common for transitions like this to generate discussion, I believe the degree of unrest expressed is not fully justified given the intent and expected outcomes of the change.

After our update from our IT partner, I’m encouraged by the progress we’ve made in transitioning to managed IT services. This move modernizes our technology and stands to align the county with current industry standards, an important step toward greater efficiency and security.

I appreciate our Sheriff and his team from Enterprise for taking the time to present information to the commission and for their continued efforts to provide additional details. However, at this point, I’m still not comfortable supporting the proposed lease agreement and here’s why; the cost figures we’ve received so far have varied from meeting to meeting, and we still don’t have a clear plan for how the county would fund this long-term. Until we have consistent numbers and a comprehensive funding proposal, I believe it’s more responsible to continue with our current approach of purchasing as needed. I look forward to reviewing a complete and accurate cost analysis and funding recommendation from the Sheriff’s Office at our next meeting.

Health insurance costs are also rising again this year. According to our broker, the county’s insurance pool used about 117% of the premiums we paid in, meaning we paid out more in claims than we collected. As a result, our rates are projected to increase by roughly 17%. We all know how valuable our insurance coverage is, and we want to keep it strong. But with our limited tax base, we simply can’t continue increasing county expenses at that rate. What I’m proposing is that the county continue to pay the same amount toward insurance as last year, (which, according to our broker, is still higher than what comparable employers contribute). Employees would then have the choice to keep their current plan and pay the difference or move to a lower-cost option. I understand that may be frustrating for some, but it’s a responsible step to help us get these costs under control while still offering solid coverage. My goal is to find a fair balance that protects both our employees and the taxpayers who fund these benefits.

I have also fielded questions about why I didn’t support stacking reserves this year. My position is simple, I’ve observed county operations over time and patterns tell me when we levy it, we spend it. Were then no better off the next year when it comes to assets or financial strength. I’m not against planning for the future, but I believe we need a clear, detailed plan for how any new tax dollars or reserve funds would actually be used before we ask our taxpayers for more. That’s just good stewardship.

Citizens of Bourbon County Thank You

Mika Milburn-Kee

Anger, our Default Emotion by Patty LaRoche

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

Anger comes easy for many of us.  It becomes our “default” emotion when anyone strongly disagrees with us, and if that person blows his/her temper first, we, by golly, will blow ours with more gusto.  Colossians 4:5 (NIV) cautions against our little tantrums: Conduct yourselves with wisdom toward outsiders; make the most of every opportunity. 

At lunch the other day, I witnessed what should have been a congenial dialogue heat up when President Trump’s name was mentioned.  I did everything I could to calm the two hotheads, to no avail.  Making the most of this opportunity was not on either man’s agenda.  Neither cared about the other’s right to disagree, nor did either concern himself with how polarizing the conversation became.  Not even when I interrupted with “So, how about those Chiefs?” did the battle die down.

Proverbs 18:2 described these individuals better than I can: Fools take no pleasure in understanding, but only in expressing their opinion. This clearly was a political battle to win, not a conversation to understand.  I don’t know about you, but I have never heard a Democrat convert a Republican or a Republican convert a Democrat.  Never!  Yet, friendships dissolve and families implode over this issue.  Ugly seeds are planted when this happens.

Understand that neither of these people asked a question to help clarify or uncover an area of possible agreement.  Both arguers were listening only to counter with their next argument.  One-upmanship at its finest!  James 1:19 had much to teach these two: Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.

At one point, I interjected that my most frustrating part of the political debates was that no one seemed capable of admitting that his/her opponent had something positive to contribute.  As a teacher, we called it the “Oreo approach.”  Say something nice, then lower the boom, and then end with something pleasant. Neither of these lunch partners found one positive trait about their political opposition.  Even “He chews with his mouth closed” or “He mentioned God the other day” would have received a head-nod.

To converse respectfully, we need to seek common ground.  That means we might discuss the weather (avoid climate change, of course) or what we liked about the Superbowl commercials (yes, a serious stretch) or the high cost of groceries.  We can praise each other’s family or a trait about the other person we admire.  Building a firm foundation enables mutual respect so that we not only listen well but are heard.

Another thing we need to do is to research our position so that it is not just our hair-brained opinion of what we think is true.  This can include facts, statistics, research studies, expert opinions, or historical examples. By substantiating our arguments with verifiable evidence, we lend credibility to our position.

There are, of course, things we need to avoid.  Raising our voice. Being sarcastic or mocking what the other person shared. Rolling our eyes or laughing inappropriately.  None of these will cause the other person to become our friend or listen to us.  Proverbs 16:21 tells us what we need to do: The wise in heart will be called understanding, and sweetness of speech increases persuasiveness.  Sometimes the best thing we can do is to let the other person know that we will pray about what we have heard and spend some time researching what he/she has said.

Above all else, we must remember that we are representing Christ, and he would much prefer we leave the discussion with our relationship intact than attacking and walking away. One conversation may not result in much change, but it is our responsibility to plant seeds and let God bring the harvest.

Heartland awards $5,000 to Beacon Food Pantry for facility upgrades

 

The Beacon Food Pantry in Fort Scott has been awarded $5,000 from Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative’s Concern for Community program for much-needed facility improvements.

The grant funded replacement of the pantry’s inoperable lighting systems. Updated lighting will improve safety and visibility for volunteers and the more than 300 families who rely on the pantry each month for food assistance.

“Food pantries are essential lifelines in rural communities,” said Mark Scheibe, Heartland CEO. “We’re proud to support the Beacon Food Pantry’s mission and help make their facility safer and more welcoming.”

The project was among six chosen this year for a total of $30,000 in funding through Heartland’s Concern for Community program.

Other 2025 grantees include: Kansas State Historical Society, Linn County Fair Association, Moran Youth Recreation, Cherokee County 4-H Council, and Walnut Community Service Organization.

About Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.
Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. powers rural lifestyles throughout more than 11,000 locations in eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes consumer-members in 12 counties: Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson.

 

FSHS Thespians Announce Auditions for Children’s Christmas Show

 

The Fort Scott High School Thespians are holding auditions for A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, adapted by Kathryn Schultz Miller.

 

Auditions are open to children in 1st-8th grades and take place from 6-8 p.m. on Nov. 17 OR 18 in the FSHS Auditorium. Children do not need to prepare anything in advance, but should plan to stay for the duration of the audition time on one of the nights. Parents should be present at the beginning for information and to fill out audition forms.

 

Rehearsals are Nov. 19 & 20, Dec. 1-4, and Dec. 9-11 from 6-8 pm. Productions are Dec. 12 and 13 at 7 p.m. There is a $30 participation fee for children cast in the show.

 

A Christmas Carol is produced by FSHS Theatre Director Angie Bin with direction and design by the FSHS Thespians. Please contact Bin at [email protected] or 620-719-9622 with any questions.

 

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