Monthly Archives: November 2025

Opinion

Horses Peck? by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker
Horses Peck?

We’re all familiar with the term, “pecking order” which originated from a zoologist’s study of social hierarchies among chickens. He observed how hens established their authority through pecking those of lower status without retaliation. As a youth, I was around chickens just enough to know I didn’t like them (unless they were on my supper plate). I’ve been around horses all my life and they also have a pecking order, which is fascinating to watch. This hierarchy system establishes dominance and relationships. It also helps reduce tension and potential conflicts, allowing horses to understand their roles and maintain social order. Each horse knows its place, which contributes to a more-harmonious environment, and this is
crucial for their well-being.

The dominant horse walks with purpose and expects others to move out of his way. He may pin his ears, swish his tail, or toss his head to make a point. In addition, you can watch a horse interact with another horse and witness mutual grooming or fly swatting. This bonding affirms social ties among them, indicating a good relationship within the pecking order. Amazingly, the horse pecking order in pastures actually helps prevent injuries, resolves conflicts, and promotes harmony in the herd. A structured hierarchy makes the horses feel at peace and enables them to function safely and properly.

Humans need to be as smart as a horse — maybe that’s why it’s called “horse sense.” Horses understand pecking order which means there can only be one boss. Humans need to understand that God is da Boss. My daughter Mariam worked in a preschool in Longview, Texas for two years. She had an adorable mouthy little girl who was really feeling her oats one day. Mariam told Mimi to do something and she defiantly said, “You not da boss o’ me! You not da boss o’ nothin‘!!” I don’t know if Mariam’s degree in early childhood development helped her much in this laughable case.

I suspect a lot of believers need to hand off the reins to God and let Him be the Boss. We are not more capable than God. As long as we’re holding the reins, God cannot reign in our lives. It’s one thing to sing the song, “Our God Reigns” but it’s another to put it into practice. When there’s a big mountain looming in front of us and we’re still holding the reins, we have no choice but to keep going around and around the mountain — getting nowhere fast. Until we give up and give in to the fact we’re not good at bossing our
life, God will let us do it on our own.

Apostle Paul reminds us that Christ Jesus is supreme and, therefore, qualified to be the Boss of everyone and everything. “Christ is the visible image of the invisible God. He existed before anything was created and is supreme over all creation, for through Him God created everything in the heavenly realms and on earth. He made the things we can see and the things we can’t see — such as thrones, kingdoms, rulers, and authorities in the unseen world. Everything was created through Him and for Him. He existed before anything else, and He holds all creation together“ (Colossians 1:15-17 NLT).

The Key: I’m choosing God’s pecking order, which means I ain’t da boss.

Obituary

Obituary of Sharon Smith

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Sharon Kay Smith, age 80, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away early Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott. She was born December 7, 1944, in Wichita, Kansas, the daughter of Rex Hurst and Dolores Swartzetrub Hurst. The family left Wichita when Sharon was young and relocated to Mountain Grove, Missouri. Sharon spent her growing up years in Mountain Grove and graduated from the Mountain Grove High School. Sharon enlisted with the United States Army where she was stationed in Germany. Following her military service, Sharon married William R. Smith on June 13, 1975. Together they made their home in Washington State for many years. Sharon was employed by the State of Washington as a key punch operator. She later worked as an auditor for the IRS. In earlier years, Sharon enjoyed bowling. After her health failed, Sharon moved to be close to her sister, Anita. While in Ft. Scott, Sharon was a member of the Church of Christ at 15th and Crawford.

Survivors include a sister, Anita Thomas (Skip) of Ft. Scott; a niece, Stephanie Kinsley, two nephews, Shawn Thomas (Christy) and David Ferre; three great-nephews, Ryan (Sierra), Quentin, and Collin, two great-nieces, Rylee and Allie and a great-great-niece, Braxton. Sharon was preceded in death by her husband, Bill, her parents and a sister, Cheryl Stubbs.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Wednesday, November 26th at the U. S. National Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Parkinson’s Foundation and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of Ronald Charles Palmer

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Ronald Charles Palmer, age 82, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Thursday, November 20, 2025, at his home. He was born November 23, 1942, in Fort Scott, Kansas, at Burke Street Mercy Hospital. He was the son of Dorothy (Elbrader) Palmer and Charles Palmer. He attended Fort Scott public schools and graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1960. He graduated from Fort Scott Junior College in 1962.

Ron was known as a hard worker and had quite a variety of jobs throughout his life. He worked as a “curb hop” at the Dairy Mug until 1958. He then drove a delivery truck for Brown’s Grocery and Meat Market until it closed in 1959. He was in the production departments of newspaper businesses for 17 years – starting in 1960 with the Fort Scott Tribune through 1964, then with the Leavenworth Times until 1968, then back with the Fort Scott Tribune until 1969, then for the Morning Sun in Pittsburg, Kansas, until 1977. He also drove a Mail delivery route to Wichita, Kansas during part of these years. He then spent 15 years working for Fort Cablevision as the Chief Technician until 1991. During the 1987 flood, he worked from a boat restoring service to customers in Fort Scott. He also designed cable systems for other communities and worked as Chief Engineer for the local radio station. When there was a job to be done, Ron was determined to complete a job well and on time.

He became a Master Electrician and started his own family corporation including businesses operating as the Fort Scott Ice Company, Suds-Yer-Duds Laundromat, Palmer Brothers Service Company, and the R&S cattle farm until his retirement in 2001. He was also a part-owner of the Fort Scott Lumber Company and served as President there for many years.

Ron was a member of the First Baptist Church in Fort Scott, was baptized there, and served several roles there including Deacon and Trustee. He was also a member of the Memphis Lodge in Garland, Kansas. He supported local 4-H clubs as an electricity leader, enjoyed quail hunting, boating, building and improving machinery, being a Corvette owner, and a NASCAR racing fan, but he especially loved the farm and being with family.

Ron married Shirley (Hoggatt) Palmer on June 2, 1963, and they had nearly 60 years together. They had 2 sons, Brian and wife Carla of Olathe, Kansas, and Gary and wife Kylene, of Fort Scott. He had 6 grandchildren including John and wife Katelyn of Lenexa, Kansas, Elizabeth and husband Elijah Vandepol of Spring Hill, Kansas, and Sadie Marchiano of Fort Scott, Lexi and husband Cody Wilson of Fort Scott, Riley Marchiano and Jentry Palmer of Fort Scott, and 4 great-grandchildren: Noah Palmer, Emma Palmer, Brooks Vandepol, and Braden Vandepol.

Ron was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Shirley, and his sister Nancy Ransom. He is survived by his sister Betty Kay Clary of Fort Scott and his brother Robert and wife Vanessa Palmer of Garnett, Kansas.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, November 25th at the First Baptist Church. Burial will follow in the Clarksburg Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the Church. Memorials are suggested to either the First Baptist Church or the Ronald and Shirley Palmer FSCC 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.

K-State Extension

How to Avoid Impulse Spending this Holiday Season by Amanda Clasen

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Amanda Clasen- Community Vitality Agent    

November 2025

The holiday season is full of warmth, generosity, and celebration, but it also brings a lot of pressure to spend. Between sales, gift exchanges, and festive outings, it’s easy to swipe the card without thinking. Many shoppers report that they don’t realize how much they’ve spent until January’s credit card statement arrives like an unwelcome guest.

According to Capital One Shopping, 89% of consumers report having made an impulse purchase, and 54% have spent $100 or more on an impulse buy. The good news is that impulse spending isn’t inevitable. With a little planning and awareness, we can keep holiday spending meaningful and manageable.

Start With a Spending Plan
Before gift shopping begins, take a few minutes to outline a holiday budget. List who you want to give to, set a spending limit for each person, and include seasonal extras like holiday meals, travel, décor, and community events. Seeing it written down not only helps you stay accountable but also reduces stress—you know what to expect.

Don’t Shop Without a List
Much like grocery shopping, heading into a holiday store or online sale without a list is a fast track to overspending. Sales are designed to trigger quick decisions. A list anchors your attention to what you actually planned to buy.

Use the 24-Hour Rule
When you find something you want but didn’t plan for, pause—don’t purchase right away. Save the item to your cart or take a picture, then wait 24 hours. Often, the excitement wears off, and you realize you didn’t need it after all.

Beware of Emotional Shopping
The holidays can stir up a lot of feelings—joy, nostalgia, stress, and sometimes guilt. Retailers know this and use it to their advantage. If you find yourself adding items to your cart because “it was a good deal” or “It just feels festive.”, take a breath and remind yourself that the value of a holiday is not measured in the number of packages under the tree.

Make Memories, Not Expenses
Research consistently shows that shared experiences are more meaningful than material gifts. Consider alternatives such as baking together, crafting homemade gifts, or planning a family game night. These experiences build connection—and often cost little to nothing.

Keep the Focus on What Matters Most
The purpose of the season is connection, gratitude, and reflection—not perfection. Your presence and kindness hold more value than anything wrapped with a ribbon.

By slowing down, planning ahead, and being mindful of spending triggers, you can enjoy a holiday season that feels full without financial regret come January.

For more information, please contact Community Vitality Agent Amanda Clasen at any Southwind District office or [email protected].

Elections, Government

U.S. Senator Roger Marshall’s Newsletter

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Senator Marshall: We Will Have a Healthcare Bill Ready the First Week of December

The Republican plan to reform our broken healthcare system was the focus of my interviews with Newsmax and Washington Watch with Tony Perkins this week. During our conversations, we discussed how to make healthcare affordable and transparent again, when we can expect a vote on this legislation, how we’re going to use the Hyde Amendment to keep abortion funding out of future healthcare spending, and the Senate vote on the Epstein Files resolution.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Newsmax.

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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full interview with Tony Perkins.

Senator Marshall Bill to Restore Whole Milk in Schools Passes the Senate

After years of fighting to get it across the finish line, the Senate passed my Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, which expands healthy milk options in schools by reversing the Obama-era law that took whole milk out of school cafeterias.

This is a common-sense fix to a problem that never existed. For whatever reason, the federal government took the most nutritious drink known to mankind out of our schools over a decade ago – robbing an entire generation of essential dairy intake.

I’m proud to see another win on the MAHA agenda cross the finish line in the Senate and am looking forward to seeing it signed into law.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Tours Wilson Elementary School

Earlier today, I had the pleasure of meeting with United School District (USD) 457 leadership, students, and nutrition services staff during a tour of Wilson Elementary School in Garden City. During the stop, I spoke with USD 457 leadership about their school meal programs and how my Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act will help make those meals more nutritious for all students.

In addition to that legislation, the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has also provided funding to help school districts purchase items from local producers, giving students more access to healthy fruits and vegetables, reflecting the Trump Administration’s focus on ensuring our children have access to nutritious food at school.Image

Senator Marshall eats lunch with students at Wilson Elementary School in Garden City.

Senator Marshall Applauds Trump Admin for Returning Education to the States

This week, the U.S. Department of Education announced six new interagency agreements with four agencies to break up the federal education bureaucracy, ensuring efficient future delivery of funded programs and activities, and moving us closer to fulfilling President Trump’s promise to return education to the states.

I applaud Secretary of Education Linda McMahon for this effort – I believe education is the great equalizer, but unfortunately, the status quo is not working, and outcomes for our children are slipping. By moving certain programs to agencies better aligned with their mission, we can finally deliver real results and better serve our children and students in Kansas.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall: Insurance Companies Wrote Obamacare

This week, during a Senate Finance Committee Hearing focused on meaningful solutions to the rising cost of health care, I had the chance to question witnesses, including Douglas Holtz-Eakin, Ph.D., President of American Action Forum, Jason Levitis, Senior Health Policy Fellow at Urban Institute, Brian Blasé, Ph.D., President of Paragon Health Institute, and Bartley Armitage.

During my opening remarks, I said, “Here we are 15 years later, and we understand that Obamacare has been an abstract failure. You know, I say this because your premiums alone, going up 200% in many cases. No one can argue that the ACA has led to premium increase. I draw attention specifically going from 2020 to 2025. You know, it just takes off. The premiums take off. Well, why, we started adding in these enhanced Biden subsidies as well? And the insurance companies jacked up their premiums to go along with that.”

“And then I think the other thing to point out is that just because you have Obamacare doesn’t mean you have access to care. If you’re a single person with a deductible of $5,000, if you’re a family of four with a deductible of almost $15,000, and you’re making less than 400% of [the] poverty level, there’s no way that that’s access to care.”
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Click HERE or on the image above to watch my full exchange.

Senators Marshall & Cassidy Unveil Bill to Boost Hiring for Americans Facing Barriers to Work

For hardworking Americans who’ve faced real obstacles entering the workforce and pursuing their American Dream, the Work Opportunity Tax Credit (WOTC) has long been a vital lifeline. The WOTC helps employers invest in staffing, training, wages, and benefits to hire individuals from specific groups that face statistically higher barriers to employment, including veterans, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) recipients, Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients, and other vulnerable groups.

That’s why this week I was proud to join Senator Bill Cassidy (R-Louisiana) in reintroducing the Improve and Enhance the Work Opportunity Tax Credit Act, which will modernize and expand the tax credit to include military spouses as a new eligible group and extend it through 2030.

Through this action, we’re giving more people a fair chance at meaningful work and the independence that comes with it.

Click here to learn more.

Senators Marshall & Warnock Introduce Resolution Celebrating First-Generation College Students

Last week, I joined Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-Georgia) in introducing a bipartisan resolution designating November 8, 2025, as “National First-Generation College Celebration Day.” November 8 is the anniversary of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

I am a first-generation college student, and my experience there taught me that for those with the grit and willingness to seize them, America offers incredible opportunities. Recognizing others like me on National First-Generation College Celebration Day allowed us to celebrate the first-generation students who are blazing new trails, embracing big dreams, and proving what’s possible.

Click here to learn more.

Senator Marshall Sounds Alarm on Netflix–Warner Bros. Merger

Lastly, this week I sent a letter to the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) raising serious antitrust concerns over reports that Netflix is considering acquiring all or part of Warner Bros. Discovery.

I believe such a deal would create one of the largest content consolidations in modern media history – hurting consumers, workers, and competition across the entertainment marketplace.

In my letter to the DOJ and the FTC, I wrote:

“Such a transaction would constitute a major vertical and horizontal consolidation in a sector that is already marked by limited competition. If Netflix reached a deal to acquire Warner Bros., it would raise significant antitrust questions that warrant especially rigorous review.”

“As the market currently stands, Netflix holds a dominant position in the global streaming marketplace — boasting more than 300 million subscribers and exercising substantial control over both distribution and content. Acquiring HBO Max and Warner Bros.’ extensive library of premium programming would further expand this dominance across multiple markets.”

“Simply put, a deal of this scale risks diminishing competitive pressure, enabling Netflix to raise prices, restrict output, and reduce the variety of content available to consumers. The likely result would be fewer films produced, curtailed theatrical windows, and reduced investment in large-scale productions.”

“Given the outsized influence that the entertainment and media industries exert on competition, culture, and employment, I urge you to act decisively to prevent anticompetitive consolidation in this vital sector.”

Click here to read the full letter.
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Newsmax: Sen. Marshall to Newsmax: Dems Admit Obamacare ‘an Abstract Failure’.

Fox News: NEWT GINGRICH: The simplest way to make American life affordable again.

Newsweek: Donald Trump Crushed Democrats With Government Shutdown Deal: Poll.

Washington Examiner: Here’s who is bidding on Warner Bros Discovery.

CU Today: NDAA Talks Accelerate As Credit Unions Push To Protect Key Provisions In Final Bill.

Daily Signal: Don’t Expand Obamacare, Make Health Care Affordable Again.

Fox4: Sen. Marshall’s bill to restore whole milk in schools passes Senate.

KCLY: Senate Moves to Recognize National First-Generation College Celebration Day.

KWCH: Sen. Roger Marshall promises healthcare vote before year’s end.

KSN: Sen. Roger Marshall talks ACA replacement plan.
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Fox Business: Trump’s $2K tariff dividends could carry a hefty price tag.

Reuters: Delays, setbacks loom over Trump’s Golden Dome missile shield.

Politico: Comey case hanging by a thread as judge squeezes DOJ over Halligan’s handling.

AP: U.S. trade deficit drops 24% in August as Trump’s tariffs reduce imports.

Military Times: US aircraft carrier arrives in the Caribbean in buildup near Venezuela.

Ad Astra Radio: Kansas County Farm Bureaus Partner With Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry.

KSN: New policy change would make it easier for Kansas nurses to afford malpractice insurance.

KVOE: Emporia State announces articulation agreements with all 19 Kansas community colleges, 2026-27 plans for residence hall and meal rates.

KSNT: KDHE launches new tool to help Kansans stay safe from viruses.

KWCH: Wichita officer seriously hurt after suspect punches him multiple times.

KCTV5: Chiefs heiress Gracie Hunt praises Turning Point’s alternative Super Bowl halftime show.

Fox4KC: Leawood parents call for safer streets after 10-year-old hit and killed.
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Obituary

Death Notice of Ronald Palmer

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Ronald Charles Palmer, age 82, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Thursday, November 20, 2025, at his home.

Funeral services will be held at 2:00 PM Tuesday, November 25th at the First Baptist Church.

Burial will follow in the Clarksburg Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 1:00 PM until service time at the Church.

Memorials are suggested to either the First Baptist Church or the Ronald and Shirley Palmer FSCC 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.

Opinion

What Kind of Friend are You? by Patty LaRoche

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

My author friend, Maggie Wallem Rowe, had the privilege of sharing a working lunch with the Rev. Dr. Barry Black, who has served as Chaplain of the United States Senate since 2003.  Dr. Black, who grew up in a poverty-stricken neighborhood in Baltimore, held master’s degrees in divinity, counseling, and management as well as a doctorate in ministry and a doctor of philosophy degree in psychology.  “One smart dude,” my friend says.

Dr. Black was asked to say grace before the group began eating, and Maggie said that she expected a lengthy prayer.  Instead, this is what Dr. Black said: “Dear Father, there are friends who have no food, and those with food who have no friends.  Today, Father, we are most fortunate to have both food and friends.  For this we most humbly thank you.  In Christ’s name, Amen.”                                                                                                                                                  During this Thanksgiving season, I am reminded of how much I take my friends for granted.  Oh, yes, I always am thankful for the elaborate buffet spread before me as my daughter-in-law Jenn opens her home to dozens of relatives and friends, but when was the last time I thanked God for old (and new) friends who forgive my failings and seem grateful for the times (fewer than ever due to my new job) that we can hang together or even talk on the phone?  Those who never make me feel guilty but manage to pick up where we left off every time we reconnect?

Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 weighs the importance of those kinds of friends:  Two are better than one because they have a good return for their labor:  If either of them falls down, one can help the other up.  But pity anyone who falls and has no one to help them up.           

Let’s be honest.  Losing friends is easy.  Making friends takes effort.  Or God does it for us.  In the Bible, we read about the Christian-persecutor, Saul, who was determined to stop the movement of Jesus followers.  In a split second, a blinding bolt of light caused him to fall off his horse, lose his eyesight and meet Jesus.  How desperate he must have been…until, that is, God introduced him to two of the best friends he would ever have.

First, God commanded Ananias to go to Saul to support him through his anguish and to teach him about Jesus Christ.  And then there was Barnabas, Paul’s friend in Jerusalem through which he met the disciples.  Like all good friends, they were present. Especially in hard times.  Good friends drive hundreds of miles or jump on a plane to be with us when we are struggling.  They make the effort…with no guilt or excuses.

Good friends know how to speak the right words at the right time.  Or they just remain silent and let their presence speak for them.   Then Ananias went to the house and entered it. Placing his hands on Saul, he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord – Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you were coming here – has sent me so that you may see again and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” (Acts 9:17)

Ananias did not berate Saul on what a terrible person he had been.  Instead, he shared the truth with Saul in a very gentle way and baptized him. The first person whom Saul saw after he heard the truth of the Holy Spirit was a God-sent friend.  For several days, Ananias encouraged Saul.  Good friends look for the best in each other.

Acts 9:26 says that the disciples were terrified of meeting Saul.  Enter Barnabas who joined the band of twelve and Saul together to form a partnership that birthed the Christian church.  Barnabas stayed with Saul for a lifetime. They started churches together, they grew missionaries together, and they even stayed together in the midst of disagreement.

During this Thanksgiving season, thank God for the true friends with which He has blessed you.  More importantly, be that friend to someone else.

Obituary

Obituary of Edward L. LaRue

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Edward L. LaRue, age 79, a resident of Bronson, Kansas, passed away Monday, November 17, 2025, at the Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, Kansas.  He was born December 19, 1945.  Ed grew in the Xenia area where he was raised by his grandparents, Tom & Myra Johnson.  Ed graduated from Bronson High School.  He was later drafted into the United States Army where he served in Vietnam from 1965 to 1967.  Following his military service, Ed began a career in gas service.  He worked as a pipeline installer and customer service representative for many years.  Ed was united in marriage to Mary L. Esch on May 4, 1968, at Pittsburg, Kansas. Ed and Mary settled on their farm south of Bronson where he remained for the remainder of his days.  He enjoyed life in the country where he fished and hunted deer.  He also liked driving around the countryside and playing the occasional game of pitch. Many memories were made while traveling on their many family vacations.

Ed is survived by his children, Jeff LaRue, Jennifer LaRue (Rusty) and Jason LaRue (Heather) as well as two additional daughters he and Mary raised, Tess Johnson and Tina Gossett (David), five grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.  Ed was preceded in death by his wife, Mary, on February 25, 2015.

Graveside services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, November 22nd at the Bronson Cemetery.  Following services, the family will receive friends at the Bronson Community Center.  Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital or the Shriner’s Hospital and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be left on the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Labor Statistics Are Delayed

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Bureau of Labor Statistics Operations Have Resumed, October Labor Report Delayed


TOPEKA – Due to the lapse in federal funding, all Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) operations were suspended from October 1, 2025, through November 12, 2025. As a result, the release of the October 2025 Kansas Labor Report, including jobs numbers and unemployment data, which was originally scheduled for November 21, was postponed until further notice.

With the conclusion of the federal government shutdown on November 12, 2025, BLS operations have resumed. While work is underway, updated release dates for the delayed Kansas Labor Market reports for September and October are not yet available. The Kansas Department of Labor will share the new release dates as soon as they are confirmed.

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Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

CHC/SEK Offers Walk-In Flu Vaccinations 

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As flu season begins, the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) encourages everyone aged six months and older to receive their yearly flu vaccine to protect themselves and their loved ones.

“It’s important to get your flu vaccine annually, because each year’s version includes the viruses expected to be most common,” said Dr. Linda Bean, CHC/SEK Chief Medical Officer. “If you get your vaccination now, you’ll be able to build up immunity before flu season peaks in the winter.”

The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas offers flu vaccinations on a walk-in basis at all clinics in Kansas and Oklahoma. No appointment is necessary, and financial assistance is available.

In addition to receiving the annual vaccine, everyday habits such as washing your hands frequently, not touching your face, and avoiding close contact with people who are ill can help reduce your risk of getting the flu.

For more information or to find your local clinic, visit chcsek.org/our-communities.