Monthly Archives: December 2025

Fort Scott Community College

Community Colleges: The Open Door Our Communities Cannot Afford to Close by Jack Welch

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FROM THE BLEACHERS-741
BY DR. JACK WELCH
Community Colleges: The Open Door Our Communities Cannot Afford to Close
Community colleges and K–12 public schools share a common mission, but they are not identical. Both exist to serve the public and to provide opportunities to all students, not just those who fit a narrow definition of readiness or success. Public K–12 education is fully funded and mandated to educate every child.
Community colleges, while grounded in the same spirit of access and inclusion, operate under financial constraints that limit how broadly they can serve, based largely on what the state provides.
Community colleges exist for one central purpose: to serve all students with opportunity. In that sense, they closely resemble our public K–12 schools. Public education does not select who deserves to learn; it accepts the responsibility to educate everyone, students who are accelerated, students with special education needs, and students who require additional support. Although not the same, community colleges carry that same public trust into higher education, striving to meet student needs within the realities of limited funding.
For many students, the community college is the bridge between where they are and where they hope to be. If a student never graduated from high school, community colleges provide preparation and pathways to earn a GED. If a student struggles in core disciplines such as math, reading, or writing, community colleges offer tutoring and remedial education designed to strengthen foundational skills. These services are not optional extras; they are essential tools for educating and building a capable workforce.
Yet, instead of embracing this mission, some states have chosen not to properly fund remedial education. This decision raises a fundamental question: what is the alternative? If we deny educational support to those who need it most, we are not solving a problem, we are shifting it elsewhere. When people are excluded from education, communities pay the price through higher unemployment, increased dependence on public assistance, and, ultimately, higher crime rates. Education has always been the better, more cost-effective alternative.
The comparison to K–12 education is instructive. Public schools are legally and morally obligated to educate all students, regardless of ability or circumstance. Private schools, by contrast, are not required to accept everyone. The same divide is emerging in higher education.
Four-year institutions are increasingly offering associate degrees, yet they are not structured like community colleges. Large class sizes limit meaningful teacher-student relationships, and remedial tutoring systems are often inadequate or nonexistent. Many students are taught by graduate assistants rather than senior faculty, especially in the early years.
Community colleges do it differently, and better for this population. Faculty members are highly educated and focused on teaching. They instruct freshmen and sophomores with the same care and expertise that four-year universities reserve for juniors and seniors. Smaller class sizes, accessible professors, and built-in academic support give students a real chance to succeed from the start.
Community colleges are not lowering standards; they are raising people. If we truly believe in opportunity, public safety, and economic vitality, we must fund and support the institutions that educate everyone. Closing the door to remedial education does not strengthen our system, it weakens our communities.
Thought for the Week, “When we choose education over exclusion, we invest not only in individual potential but in the strength, safety, and future of our entire community.” Jack Welch, President of Fort Scott Community College.
Jack Welch, Ed.D

President
Fort Scott Community College
254-368-7447
K-State Extension

Walk with Ease Begins January 26th

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Walk with Ease Begins January 26th

Need a free, safe, and warm physical activity option?  A six-week Arthritis Foundation Walk with Ease Program starts January 26th!  The class will meet on Mondays and Wednesdays from 10:00 to 11:00 a.m. at the Bronson Community Building, located at 509 Clay Street. Call 620-244-3826 to enroll.

 Walk with Ease Benefits to You:

  • Walk safely and comfortably
  • Improve flexibility, strength, and stamina
  • Reduce pain and improve health
  • Motivate yourself with others!

This free walking program includes health education, stretching exercises, strengthening exercises, and motivational strategies. The program consists of a guidebook and a walking schedule to get you safely moving toward better health.

Walk with Ease is made available by a partnership between K-State Extension and the Southeast Kansas Area Agency on Aging.

Bourbon County

Commission Catch-up by Commissioner Mika Milburn 12/8/2025

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Mika MIlburn Kee

Mika‘s Commission Catch-up 12/8/2025

During Public Comments Commission heard comment from ROD Laura requesting additional space would like suite 10 that the commission has been prepping for driver lic services

Taxpayer wanted to express his opinion on how the elected officials work together

Gregg Motley announced his resignation as Board Member of Freeman and announced that the CMS survey should be done by the end of year.

Deanna Betts with Bourbon County Core Community spoke about the work they have been doing to help families get out of poverty

Meeting Minutes for Dec 1 were tabled to the Dec 15 Meeting

Commissioner Milburn made a motion to move the charges for Locksmith from Commission to IT Department charges. Commissioner Beerbower second all approved

Commissioners met with Attorney Billenberg who represented the commission and the Attorneys for the solar company to meet a resolve litigation on the current projects

Following Executive session Commissioner Beerbower motioned to adopt removal of moratorium Tran Second Milburn asked for discussion, commissioners called a short recess, after recess Commissioner Beerbower motioned to rescind motion on the table Tran second all approved, The commission opened the topic up to the public to comment as this topic has been a long discussion. After public input from Randy Mcnalty, Mary Pemberton the commission voted to approve resolutions 39-41/25 pertaining to solar moratorium /agreements. Commissioner Beerbower made a motion to approve settlement agreements and contribution agreements with Hinton and Tenyson Creek Tran second all approved.

A speaker came to speak to the commission about SBA Loans

Public works presented a culvert request to the commission for 2222 35th street Commissioner Milburn made a motion to approve Commissioner Beerbower second all approved

Public works announced that the bridge at fern is done and they will get the load rating sign installed

140th street speed limit discussion tabled to 12/15

Commissioner Milburn announced the annex is being done for the 6th Judicial and they would begin moving in.

Commissioner Milburn motion to sign resolution 38-25 for the 6th judicial Commissioner Beerbower second all approved

Commissioner Milburn made a motion to sign real property relief application at 2453 Jayhawk road due to a loss from fire Commissioner Beerbower Second all approved

Commissioner Tran made a motion to rescind motion from last week to move 200k from inmate fund to general Commissioner Beerbower second all approved

Dec 22 and Dec 29 meetings are canceled as Commissioner Beerbower and Tran are unavailable.

We will need fund amendments for -Appraiser- Landfill – Public Safety – Jail Sales Tax so a timeline for a meeting will need to be worked out for this

Road Closure for 267th street between lot 13 and 16 will need to be published hold a public hearing.

Commissioner Milburn presented a resolution establishing the procedures to sell of Bourbon County KS owned real estate through a licensed Real Estate Broker.

Commissioner Milburn moved to sign resolution 42-25 for the sale of real estate. Commissioner Beerbower second all approved.

Commissioner Milburn was tasked with writing a letter for the clerk to send to all realtors offering 6% and asking for submission of Market analysis presentations. Commissioner Beerbower and Commissioner Tran will then decide who to hire.

Commissioner Milburn presented a resolution to provide space in suite 10 to the state driver lic office this resolution follows the current contract the DL office currently held with 108 w 2nd street. Commissioner Milburn made a motion to accept resolution 43-25 a resolution for office space for the kdor driver lic division Commissioner Beerbower second all approved

Passed resolutions that have not yet been signed will be brought back next week to sign.

Opinion

Tap into the Prince of Peace by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker
Tap into the Prince of Peace

It’s interesting that after 2,000 years, Americans are still paying taxes and celebrating the birth of Christ in the same month. These two combined expenses may cause some people to tap into their savings account. When we tap into something, we then have access to resources and can establish a connection to make a “withdrawal” for whatever we need. I will often tap into my family and friends for information and opinions on situations that I know they have personal experience. It’s important and wise that we take
advantage of the benefits that have been made available to us.

God sent Jesus into the world to demonstrate His love, provide the perfect and only sacrifice for sin, and establish a new and better covenant with mankind. Isaiah prophesied in the Old Testament: “For a child will be born for us, a Son will be given to us, and the government will be on His shoulders. He will be named Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Eternal Father, Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6 CSB).

The night when Jesus was born, the angel told the lowly shepherds to go and find the Babe. Born in a stable, the Prince of Peace was accessible to the public but nobody showed up but the shepherds. That Baby in the manger was a gift of truest love straight from the heavenly Father. Jesus grew up, increased in wisdom and stature, redeemed sinners, and fulfilled His mission as the Savior of the world. The Son of God continues to be available for all who will tap into Him for salvation and receive the abundant life.

Having spent 33 years in the everyday life of a world of broken people and systems, Jesus knew the importance of a deep peace that could only come from Him. “I [Jesus] have told you all this so that you may have peace in Me. Here on earth you will have many trials and sorrows. But take heart, because I have overcome the world” (John 16:33 NLT). Believers have been made more than conquerors through the blood of Jesus.

Sometimes people are looking for peace in all the wrong places. But when we find Jesus we find the Prince of Peace. “May the Lord Himself, who is our source of peace, give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with you all” (2 Thessalonians 3:16 GNT). When the bottom falls out of our world, we can rely on the Lord’s peace to get us through it.

“Let the peace of Christ keep you in tune with each other, in step with each other. None of this going off and doing your own thing. And cultivate thankfulness” (Colossians 3:15 MSG). “Never underestimate the power of a seed of peace: the power of a kind word, a seed of apology, a phone call, an explanation” (Max
Lucado). The most important gifts are usually the ones that cost our pride. Perhaps you should consider offering the gift of peace to a broken relationship this Christmas. Mending fences isn’t easy, but it’s worth the humbling effort in order to have peace in your heart, mind, and soul.

As children of our heavenly Father, we oftentimes live beneath our privileges. Everything we need to handle life is found in Christ. Believers need to tap into Jesus for all He’s worth! We can experience a lasting peace that surpasses understanding through our relationship with Jesus. As our Savior and Lord, we have access to His divine peace every day.

The Key: Believers need to tap into the Prince of Peace; He never runs out of His Name.

K-State Extension

Starting 2026 Strong with K-State Extension – Southwind District

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As we close out 2025 and welcome a new year, it is a perfect time to reflect on the past and look ahead to new goals, fresh opportunities, and continued growth. K-State Extension- Southwind District remains committed to serving our communities through practical, research-based education and support for residents of all ages. As 2026 begins, we are excited to highlight the services available to help individuals, families, farms, and communities start the year strong.

Southwind’s 4-H Youth Development, led by Extension Agents Jennifer Terrell and Kendal Henson, continues to be a cornerstone of Extension programming. Youth have opportunities to participate in local 4-H clubs, camps, project-based learning, leadership activities, and competitive events that build confidence and real-world skills. Extension also offers school enrichment programs and career exploration experiences designed to prepare young people for future success while remaining engaged in their communities.

Through Family and Consumer Sciences, Extension Agents Tara Solomon Smith and Sandy Haggard provide services that support healthy families and strong households. Programs include nutrition education, healthy cooking classes, food preservation workshops, and food safety education. Extension also offers Senior Insurance Counseling, aging well programs, and overall wellness education, helping families set positive habits and goals as the new year begins.

The Southwind District proudly supports local producers through Agriculture and Natural Resources programming offered by Extension Agents Hunter Nickell and Lonnie Mengarelli. Services include research-based information on crop and livestock production, pasture and forage management, soil health, pest management, pond management, and conservation practices. Producers can also receive assistance with farm management decisions, recordkeeping, and navigating changes in agricultural technology and markets.

Homeowners and gardeners can work with Horticulture Extension Agent Krista Harding for assistance with insect identification, plant and weed identification, lawn and garden troubleshooting, tree and shrub care, and general gardening questions. Research-based recommendations help residents plan and maintain successful gardens and landscapes throughout the year.

Community Vitality programming, led by Extension Agent Amanda Clasen, helps strengthen local economies and support thriving communities. Services include entrepreneurship education, youth and adult business programs, community planning support, facilitation for local groups, and financial literacy education. By working alongside community members, Extension helps towns identify opportunities, address challenges, and plan for a sustainable future.

One of the greatest strengths of K-State Extension is its local presence. Extension services are accessible, affordable, and tailored to the unique needs of our communities. Whether you are setting personal goals, managing a farm or business, raising a family, or serving your community, Extension is here to help you move forward in the new year.

As we step into 2026, K-State Extension Southwind District looks forward to continuing to serve as a trusted resource and partner. We wish everyone a safe, healthy, and prosperous New Year. To learn more about upcoming programs and services, contact your local Extension office or visit southwind.k-state.edu.

K-State Extension

Radon: The Silent Threat Beneath Your Home 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.

Radon: The Silent Threat Beneath Your Home

 Radon is a gas that comes from the ground. You can’t see it, smell it, or taste it—but it can make you very sick. Breathing radon for a long time can cause lung cancer. In fact, radon is the second leading cause of lung cancer in the U.S. and the number one cause for people who don’t smoke.

Why should you care?
In Kansas, approximately one out of every four homes has excessive radon levels. Each year, about 200 people in Kansas get lung cancer from radon. The only way to know if your home is safe is to test it.

 Testing is easy and cheap.
You can buy a radon test kit for $9 at K-State Extension offices in Iola, Erie, Fort Scott, and Yates Center. Put the kit on the lowest level of your home where people spend time, leave it for a few days, then mail it in. If your test score is 4.0 or higher, your home needs attention.

 What if your home has high radon?
Don’t worry—radon can be fixed. A special system can pull radon out from under your house and send it outside. Most systems cost between $800 and $2,500, and they typically work within one day. After fixing, test again to ensure your home remains safe.

Want to learn more? Join a free 30-minute Radon 101 Webinar:

  • Jan 6 – Noon
  • Jan 13 – 2 PM
  • Feb 3 – 6 PM

Register here: https://shorturl.at/B1jCa

Visit www.kansasradonprogram.org or call 620-244-3826. Don’t wait—test today to protect your family.

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Ad: What FSCC Offers

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Looking for a college that gives you options? At Fort Scott Community College, students can choose from associate degrees in Arts, Science, Applied Science, and General Studies, along with a variety of certificates that lead straight to rewarding careers. Whether you’re interested in healthcare fields like Certified Medication Aide, Nurse Aide, EMT, Home Health Aide, Manicuring, or Phlebotomy, or want to take on a technical challenge with certificates in Ag Technology (John Deere), Construction, Cosmetology, Criminal Justice, Environmental Water Tech, Farm & Ranch Management, Harley-Davidson Technology, Heavy Equipment Operation, HVAC, Masonry, or Welding we’ve got you covered!

But college isn’t just about the classroom. FSCC offers plenty of ways to get involved through music and performance opportunities (band, choir, theater), student clubs and organizations (like Collegiate Farm Bureau, Phi Theta Kappa, SkillsUSA, STEAM Club, FSCC Media Team, and more), and even competitive judging teams in livestock and meat.

If athletics is more your thing, FSCC is home to intercollegiate sports for both men and women. Compete in basketball, baseball, softball, volleyball, rodeo, track & field, or cross country, all while building friendships and representing the Greyhounds.

And the best part? We’re still growing. New programs, degrees, certifications, and athletic opportunities are on the horizon! There’s never been a better time to join FSCC!

Fort Scott Community College; where opportunity meets possibility.

Obituary

Obituary of Sammy Elaine Winship

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Sammy  Elaine Winship, a cherished member of the Fort Scott community, passed away peacefully at the age of 86 on December 22, 2025, in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Born on February 4, 1939, Sammy was a beacon of selflessness and kindness throughout her years. She attended Fort Scott High School, where she laid the foundations of a life dedicated to service and care. Sammy’s warmth and nurturing spirit led her to own and operate her own daycare, where she touched the lives of many families, guiding their young ones with love and dedication. Her commitment to her community extended to her work as a line worker for the Avon Company, where she was known for her work ethic and friendly demeanor.

Sammy’s life was a testament to the joy of giving. She found her greatest happiness in the laughter and achievements of her children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren. Her daughter, Laura Rasmussen of Independence, Mo., and her daughter Carolyn Fisher and husband Roy of Kansas City Her granddaughter Sammi Bailey and husband Josh of Festus, Mo., along with Aaron Fisher and Carrie Fisher and Claudio, of Kansas City, will carry forward her legacy of kindness. Sammy’s four great-grandchildren, Canyon, Bella, Lennon, and Wilder Bailey. Her Family will cherish the memories of her steadfast support and endless encouragement.

Although Sammy has joined her late family members, including her parents, William S. Bailey and Deloris Likely Bailey, her brother Joe Bailey, and sister Alice Hallin, her spirit of selflessness and devotion lives on through those she has left behind.

Sammy Winship was a woman whose life was defined by her unwavering love for her family. She will be remembered as a nurturing soul who brought joy to children and comfort to parents, a woman who built a life on the foundation of kindness and care. As we say farewell to Sammy, we reflect on a life well-lived, a journey marked by the countless hearts she touched and the smiles she inspired. Sammy Winship’s legacy is one of love, and it will continue to shine brightly in the lives of those who were fortunate enough to know her.

Cremation has taken place, a Celebration of will be held at a late date  Memorials are suggested to the First Baptist Church 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

Death Notice of Barbara Lou Haggard

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DEATH NOTICE

 Barbara Lou Haggard, age 76, resident of Pittsburg, KS passed away Thursday, November 27, 2025, at Mercy Hospital, Springfield, MO.  There was cremation.  Memorial services will be held at 10:00 AM on Monday, December 29th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Interment will take place at a later date in the U. S. National Cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Barb Haggard Memorial 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.

Obituary

Obituary of Brian Karl Housman

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Brian Karl Housman, age 67, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Monday, December 22, 2025, at the Medicalodge in Ft. Scott.  He was born December 28, 1957, in Westwood, New Jersey, the son of Russell and Dorthy Housman.  Brian used to work landscaping with his friend, Frank Lopez at a business they named L. & H. Homeowner’s Services, in Emerson, New Jersey.  He later met the love of his life, Donna.  They were united in marriage on August 19, 1989, in her mom’s backyard.  He then followed his wife to Ft. Scott, Kansas in 1991.  After settling in Kansas, he worked as a maintenance man and then for Ft. Scott Burial Vault Company.  He was always willing to help his wife with any of her various projects and volunteer work.  Brian and Donna were also members of Community Christian Church where they helped found the Christian Motorcycle Association (CMA).  He also made sure to attend his grandchildren’s and great-grandchildren’s events whenever he was able.  He loved working in his garage on various projects and could always be found outside maintaining his yard and property to make it look good.

Brian is survived by his brother, Russell Housman of Westwood, New Jersey; two stepdaughters, Jacqueline Arbogast of Nevada, Missouri (SIL Charles Arbogast, Jr of Oklahoma), Stephanie Smith-Hinson and husband, Darrin of Garfield, New Jersey; a stepson, Christopher Smith of Utah; eleven grandchildren and their spouses, twenty-two great-grandchildren; several nieces and nephews and great-nieces and great-nephews. He was preceded in death by his wife, Donna; two sisters, Candice and Nancy; a step-son, John Enos; his parents, Russell and Dorthy Housman, a great-granddaughter, four rainbow babies; a niece, Dawnelle Ornstein and a great-nephew, Christian Golden.

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct funeral services at 1:00 P.M. Monday, December 29th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Burial will follow in the Large Cemetery south of Ft. Scott.  Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of 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.