CFSEK and CHC Host 2026 Grant Writing Workshop

 

 

 

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas and the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHCSEK) are, once again, hosting a Grant Writing Workshop to help area nonprofits improve their grant writing skills in the upcoming year.

“Many non-profit organizations seek grant funding to bolster their programs or projects, but the act of writing a grant can be intimidating, although it doesn’t have to be,” said Becky Gray, Building Health Executive Director. “This workshop is designed to break the grant writing process down into easily attainable steps, and participants will leave with tangible strategies for their next grant application.”

The workshop will take place on Thursday, February 12, from 1-4 p.m. at the Parolo Education Center at CHC. In-person attendance is limited to 80 participants, but there is an option to attend via Zoom.

“This will be the second year we’ve collaborated with CHCSEK on this workshop, and we received a wonderful response last year,” said Kara Mishmash, CFSEK Program Coordinator. “This workshop helps attendees gain confidence in completing various types of grant applications, with a particular focus on CFSEK grant applications and evaluation processes so applicants can better understand our expectations and how we work. Our hope is that these workshops will enable nonprofits throughout the CFSEK service area to submit stronger applications and secure funding to improve all facets of life in southeast Kansas.”

For more information and to register online, visit SoutheastKansas.org/Seminar, or call the CFSEK office at (620) 231-8897.

Obituary of Bryon Arthur Colum

BRYON A COLUM, age 65, resident of Fort Scott, KS, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026, at home.

He was born March 25, 1960, In San Diego, California to Roy G. Colum, Sr. and Kathleen Young Colum.

He attended school in San Diego, Graduating for Abrahma Lincoln High School. He was employed and retired from the City of San Diego.

He was a loving father to Tanisha Colum and proud Grandfather to one Granddaughter.

He was a good son, brother and uncle. He was a true and loyal friend to many and a stranger to no one. He always had a story, loved talking with people, and had a fun sense of humor. He enjoyed listening to music, cooking, cars, bikes dressing and wearing hats.

Bryon is survived by his daughter and granddaughter, his mother Kathleen Young Colum; siblings Roy G Colum Jr. (Patricia), San Diego; Kimberly J Colum-Wright (Ezell), Mesa, Arizona; Larren S Colum, Sr (Nicole), San Diego, CA., April G Davis, San Diego, many nieces, nephews, cousins and extended family. He was preceded in death by his father Roy G Colum, Sr., 09/10/2025.

There was cremation, and he will eventually be laid to rest in San Diego, California. Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas. Words of remembrance may. be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com

Unsung Heroes & STEAM Session is Wednesday, January 21

Still Time to Join!
Unsung Heroes & STEAM Session

Wednesday, January 21, 2026
4:00-5:15 PM Pacific Time
All educators are invited to this free interactive and engaging professional development session focused on Unsung Heroes & STEAM. 2021 LMC Fellow Jennifer Braverman will present strategies for using a STEAM framework and divergent thinking skills with students. Participants investigate how logic and creativity overlap to generate innovative ideas and concepts for visual artmaking. Lesson plan and Certificate of Participation provided. Learn more about the session and instructor.
Register Now
2026 Competition Info Session – Recording
Thank you to those who joined us for the 2026 ARTEFFECT Competition Info Session! You can now access the recording for the online Competition Info Session. This session provided an overview of the annual art competition for students in grades 6-12. The session discussed rules, guidelines, judging criteria, tips for submission, prizes, and resources and included hearing from previously participating educators and students!
View Info Session Recording
Educators! Bring the inspiring stories of the Unsung Heroes into your classroom! This Quick Start Resource Guide for Educators includes lesson plans, session recordings, and a 10-step process to help students with developing projects for the 2026 ARTEFFECT Competition.
Download Resource Guide
The 2026 ARTEFFECT Competition for middle and high school students is open through April 21, 2026. To learn more, visit 2026 ARTEFFECT competition.
For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
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Energy Assistance Starts Today

Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) Application Period Opens in Kansas

DCF Begins Taking Applications Jan. 20

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) has announced that applications are now being accepted for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP). The application period runs from Tuesday, Jan. 20, through 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

LIEAP provides a one-time per year benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating costs, whether the home is heated with electricity, natural gas, propane, or other home heating fuels. In 2025, more than 43,000 Kansas households received an average benefit of about $680.

“LIEAP plays a critical role in helping Kansas families remain safe and warm through the state’s often harsh winter months,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.

The federal government shutdown in late 2025 delayed the distribution of LIEAP funding to states for the 2026 season, which in turn delayed DCF’s planning efforts and the start of the 2026 application period.

Qualifying for LIEAP

To qualify, households must have an adult at the address responsible for the home’s heating costs. Applicants must be at or below 150% of the federal poverty level (see the 2026 income eligibility guidelines below). The level of benefit received varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel, and utility rates.

Applying for LIEAP

Applications can be accessed online at dcf.ks.gov​ by clicking the “Apply for Services” button on the top right side of the website.

DCF is planning in-person events to help Kansans submit their LIEAP applications. For a schedule of in-person LIEAP application events, visit lieap.dcf.ks.gov and click on “Where are the in-person LIEAP application events being held this year” in the drop-down menu.

When applying for LIEAP, Kansans should have their identification, proof of income for all adult household members, copies of heating utility bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.), and a copy of their rental agreement if they are living in subsidized housing.

2026 Income Eligibility Guidelines

​​​Persons Living at this Address​      Maximum Gross Monthly Income
​1      $​1,956​​
​2​​      $2,644​​
​3      $3,331​
​4      $4,019​
​5      $4,706​
6​      $5,394​
​7      $6,081​
​8      $6,769​
​​​   ​+1 $688 for each additional person​

Learn more about LIEAP​ in Kansas, including frequently asked questions, other community resources, and the complete schedule of LIEAP application events at lieap.dcf.ks.gov. Funding for LIEAP is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Service through the Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

 

 

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USD 234 Demonstrates Academic Growth Across Core Subjects

USD 234 is proud to share academic progress reflected in the recent Kansas Assessment Program (KAP) results. These results demonstrate meaningful gains in Math, English Language Arts (ELA), and Science.

Over the past several years, USD 234 students have steadily improved proficiency rates on the state assessments required by KSDE. Proficiency status represents students mastering grade level standards that are included on the state assessment each spring. USD 234 now ranks near the top of other Southeast Kansas League schools in multiple subject areas. In Math and ELA, Fort Scott’s proficiency levels have climbed consistently, placing the district among one of the strongest performers among other Southeast Kansas League schools for the 2024–25 school year. Science results also reflect sustained and consistent growth over the last few years.

These results reflect the dedication and hard work of all USD 234 staff. This is also a reflection of each students’ commitment to continuous learning. We are thankful for these individuals’ efforts each and every day.

More detailed assessment information is available through the Kansas State Department of Education Report Card at datacentral.ksde.gov.”


KS Legislative Hotline: Information For Legislative Sessions

All-Year Access to the Kansas Legislative Hotline

Powered by the State Library of Kansas

TOPEKAKansans are encouraged to call the Legislative Hotline, 1-800-432-3924, for information about the 2026 Kansas Legislature and legislative sessions, as well as past sessions. Kansas’ Legislative Hotline can also be accessed by emailing [email protected] or using the chat online, library.ks.gov/chat. The Legislative Hotline is a trustworthy resource for state residents with questions about the Kansas Legislature and is staffed by skilled librarians.

The Legislative Hotline is Kansas’ one-stop resource to learn who their legislators are, acquire up-to-date legislative contact information, check the status and history of bills, understand the legislative process, locate historical information and other inquiries related to Kansas government.

“It is essential for Kansans to have accurate and timely information about their state government and the issues they care about,” said State Librarian Ray Walling. “By using the Legislative Hotline, Kansans will access the information they need from a trusted source, trained librarians from their own State Library.”

Kansas residents can connect with the Legislative Hotline by phone, chat or email: 

Live Legislative Hotline assistance is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Messages left via voicemail or email are promptly returned on the next business day. Additionally, Kansans can engage in real-time conversations with librarians through the Ask a Librarian service at library.ks.gov/chat, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. TTY users can dial 711 for assistance.

The State Library of Kansas supports the informational needs of government entities and the people of Kansas and serves as a repository for government publications. Through the coordination of statewide resource-sharing initiatives and grant programs, the State Library plays a crucial role in strengthening public libraries. The State Library of Kansas also oversees the Talking Books program, which provides specialized materials and support services to qualifying Kansans. Learn more at library.ks.gov.

 

School Board Recognition Month

Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN Superintendent                                                                                                                                

TERRY MAYFIELD                                                                                                              Assistant Superintendent

 

Join us in thanking our Board of Education

January is School Board Recognition Month, and our school district would like to thank each of our board of education members for their incredible service to our community and our public schools.

School board members in USD 234 develop policies and make important decisions that help shape the future of our education system.

This January, please join us as we thank our school board members for volunteering their time, their passion for serving our district and for advocating on behalf of every child in our community.

The board members serving USD 234 and their years of service are:

David Stewart – President          Stewart Gulager – Vice President

Doug Hurd                                 Nick Barrows

Mike Miles                                  Phil Jackson

Rory Chaplin

Sincerely,

 

 

Destry Brown

USD 234 – Fort Scott

On January 22, Brickstreet BBQ Hosts the Weekly Chamber Coffee

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

Brickstreet BBQ

Thursday, January 22nd

8am

Brickstreet BBQ

3 W. Oak St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee this Thursday, January 22nd at 8am, hosted by Brickstreet BBQ, located at 3 W. Oak St. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize drawing.

Brickstreet BBQ, a community favorite serving up smoked meats and classic BBQ dishes since opening in 2024, continues to bring great food and local flavor to Fort Scott. Throughout January, diners can enter for a chance to win a romantic dinner for two in February. Details on the Valentine’s steak dinner special will be shared soon, and reservations are encouraged by calling 620-224-2425.

For those planning a Super Bowl gathering, Brickstreet BBQ offers catering with crowd-pleasing favorites such as smoked wings, pulled pork sliders, brisket, ribs, sides, and desserts. Lent fish specials will be announced soon, with the restaurant welcoming community input on menu ideas.

Guests are also encouraged to mark their calendars for the St. Patrick’s Day Bar Crawl on Saturday, March 14th. More details will be shared in the coming weeks.

To stay up to date on events, specials, and announcements, follow Brickstreet BBQ on Facebook.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566. Visit the Events Calendar on fortscott.com and click on the “Chamber Coffees” category for upcoming hosts and locations.

Click HERE to visit

Brickstreet BBQ

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit

Brickstreet BBQ website!

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

Obituary of Katherine Lorraine Harkness Wynn

Katherine Lorraine (Harkness) Wynn, age 88, passed away peacefully at home, surrounded by members of her family, on January 17, 2026, in Fort Scott, Kansas.

Lorraine was born in Prescott, Kansas, on August 26, 1937, to Lawrence Phillips and Lille (Buchanan) Phillips. She was raised in Prescott, Kansas, where she graduated from Prescott High School and later received her degree in cosmetology from Stewart Beauty Academy in Topeka, Kansas.

Lorraine was married to K. W. Harkness for 40 years. They had four children and loved taking trips in the family camper and on Honda Goldwing motorcycles. K. W. and Lorraine eventually traveled the Alaska Highway to Fairbanks on a motorcycle. K. W. Harkness preceded her in death on May 24, 1995.

Lorraine married Ronnie Wynn on November 2, 2001, and they were married for almost 25 years. They enjoyed going on several cruises with her family and traveling across Kansas with Ron’s grandchildren.

Lorraine had several occupations during her life. She started as a beautician but soon worked in the family business painting and hanging wallpaper. She always said her most important career was being a housewife and mother. She liked collecting recipes and enjoyed cooking for her family. Some family favorites included homemade bread, cinnamon rolls, noodles, sugar cookies, ginger cookies, and raisin pie. She always made elaborately decorated cakes for family birthdays and even made wedding cakes for family and friends.

Lorraine loved Jesus and her family. She would do anything for her children. She loved her church family and was especially happy when she settled in Fort Scott, where she could attend Grace Baptist Tabernacle, and raise her children.

She is survived by her husband, Ronnie Wynn; three children, Angela Mae (Harkness) Russell and husband Rick of Arkansas, Shawna Lorraine Harkness of Fort Scott, and Jarett Stanton (Stan) Harkness and wife Deana of Texas; two stepchildren, Jeremy Wynn and wife Stanna of Colorado, and Julie Patton and husband T. C. of Oklahoma; five grandchildren; six great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. She is also survived by beloved cousins, nieces, and a nephew.

She was preceded in death by her parents; her first husband, K. W. Harkness; her son, Kevin Harkness; and two sisters, Irene Paddock and Ladeen (Vaughn) Poole.

Rev. Paul Rooks will conduct funeral services at 10:00 A.M. Thursday, January 22nd at the Grace Baptist Tabernacle, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Burial will follow in the Prescott Cemetery in Prescott, Kansas.  The family will receive friends on Wednesday evening from 5 to 7 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Memorials are suggested to the International Waldenstrom’s Macrogloblinemia 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 of Esther Mae Marsh

Esther Mae Marsh, age 80, resident of Fort Scott, KS and formerly Bronson, KS, passed away Sunday, January 18, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. She was born on September 22, 1945, in Iola, KS, the daughter of Claude Charles Bennett and Goldie Mae Dunbar Bennett. Esther was raised on the family farm northwest of Iola. She attended Carpenter country school and later graduated from Iola high school with the class of 1963.

Esther worked for SEKAN Printing for over 30 years. She married Clifton Carl Marsh in 1981 in Fort Scott KS. He preceded her in death on July 18, 2025. She enjoyed sewing, making quilts, flowers, gardening and all things outdoors. She loved listening to classic country music.

Survivors include a son, Ted Sutterby, Linn Valley, KS, a daughter, Audra Peterson (Les), Highlands, NC; 4 grandchildren, Luke, Gregory, Joshua, and Emily; 4 great grandchildren; 2 brothers, Chester Bennett, Buffalo, KS, and Lester Bennett, Colony, KS; a sister, Mary Evans, Yates Center, KS; a sister-in-law Margaret Bennett, Humboldt, KS; and numerous nieces, nephews, grand nieces and grand nephews. Besides her husband, she was preceded in death by a son, Vincent Marsh, a brother, Webster Bennett, and her parents.

Pastor Jeff Feagins will conduct funeral services at 1:00 PM Saturday, January 24th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Cremation will follow. Memorials are suggested to Medicalodge Activity 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.