Monthly Archives: September 2026

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No Cruise Liner for This Guy 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.)

Jonah runs. God gives him clear direction to speak to the evil Ninevites and turn them to Him instead of the idols they worship. Sounds relatively easy, only this prophet hates the Ninevites and does not want them to repent and change the way they are living. So, Jonah runs 180 degrees in the opposite direction. What Jonah does not know is that if you want to run from God, Satan will always give you a ride. God’s request is a 500-mile trip; Satan’s is 2500 miles. Better than doing something nice for my enemies, Jonah tells himself. Jonah jumps aboard a cargo ship to Tarshish, forgetting that God directs everything, including the weather. His voyage triggers a violent storm at sea, and the sailors, recognizing Jonah as the cause, reluctantly throw him overboard to calm the waters.

Enter the whale, the whale’s belly to be exact, where Jonah finds himself. Get that? Jonah prays to be rescued all right, but he is thinking more like a dinghy or a life jacket or a Carnival cruise liner to pick him up. Instead, God gives him a fish. The slip-and-slide ride down the fish’s throat has to be terrifying, but that’s not the end of the story. Jonah is helpless but not hopeless. Jonah’s problem is God’s provision. Three days he slushes around amidst dead fish and sea algae, ultimately praying and repenting. I love how God waits to move. At the right time, three days after Jonah nose-dives into the fish’s belly, God does His thing. (If “three days” rings a bell, it should. Jonah serves as a foreshadowing for Jesus himself.)

God commands the fish to release Jonah onto dry land, and the prophet heads to Nineveh where he proclaims God’s warning of impending judgment. The people listen and repent, making Jonah do the happy-dance to see God’s mercy first-hand.

Not! Jonah is one cranky character. After all, he deserves God’s mercy because he’s such a holy man, but these Ninevites? They represent your worst enemy on steroids. The pouting prophet retreats to a hillside outside of Nineveh and constructs a simple shelter to observe the city. From there, he says that it would be better to die than to witness what God is doing for his enemies. Human resentment versus divine compassion at its finest.

Some people just don’t get it.

Sure glad I don’t ever fall into that category.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Flags at Half-Staff for 9/11’s 25th Anniversary

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TOPEKA – Today, in accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed flags throughout the State of Kansas be lowered to half-staff from sunup to sundown on Friday, September 11, 2026, to honor those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001.

“Twenty-five years after the unthinkable tragedy that claimed the lives of nearly 3,000 Americans and injured thousands more, we uphold our commitment to remembering those whose lives were permanently altered by a horrific terrorist attack,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “We will never forget the bravery demonstrated that day by so many, including our nation’s first responders, who saved countless lives despite losing more than 400 of their own. Their sacrifice and service will never be forgotten.”

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, visit: https://www.governor.ks.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honors.

Art, Entertainment, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Date Change: The Young Fables Live • Thursday, Oct. 8

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Bourbon County Arts Council

Bourbon County Arts Council
Presents a concert featuring

The Young Fables

Thursday, October 8th

Please note: The date for this event has changed. Please update your calendar accordingly.

5:00 pm
Doors Open

5:30–7:30 pm
Hearty Appetizer Buffet

8:00 pm
Performance

Crooner’s | Liberty Theatre
113 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS

Reservations Required

Tickets
$50 – BCAC Member
$60 – Non-Member

Contact
Terri Floyd – 620-224-7221
Steve Floyd – 620-224-7702

Visit Bourbon County Arts Council’s Facebook Page

Visit The Young Fables’ Facebook Page

The Young Fables

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 10, 2026

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Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 10, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 123 calls for service on September 10, 2026.

Reports and Arrests

Theft — 9:31 AM, 1005 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01464FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Lost Property / Walk-In — 9:32 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01465FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 11:25 AM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-01466FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 11:25 AM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0853BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 11:37 AM, 54 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0852BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 11:47 AM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0855BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Traffic Stop — 11:53 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01467FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 12:15 PM, 2216 S Main St. Complaint No. 26-0854BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 12:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0856BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 13:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01468FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 1:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0858BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 1:09 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0859BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Accident / Non-Injury — 1:30 PM, 1111 S State, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01470FS. Disposition: FIRE.

Traffic Stop — 1:47 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01469FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 2:11 PM, 2305 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01471FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 2:22 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0860BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 2:22 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-01472FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 3:15 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01473FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 3:02 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0868BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 3:07 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0861BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 3:54 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0863BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 4:02 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0862BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 4:07 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0865BB. Disposition: ARRC.

Traffic Stop — 4:34 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0864BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Theft — 5:09 PM, Holbrook St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01474FS. Disposition: ARRC.

Traffic Stop — 5:10 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0866BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:41 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0867BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Found Property — 6:52 PM, Horton St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01477FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 7:12 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01475FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Theft — 7:20 PM, 11 S Barbee St. Complaint No. 26-01476FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 7:25 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0869BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 7:51 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0870BB. Disposition: ARRC.

Check Vehicle — 8:16 PM, 1920 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01478FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Accident / Non-Injury — 10:13 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0872BB. Disposition: RPTA.

Traffic Stop — 9:11 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0871BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 12:02 AM, 757 Maple, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 11:28 AM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 11:40 AM, 1088 85th, Uniontown. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 11:42 AM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 4:27 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

Other Calls for Service

Suspicious Activity — 12:00 AM, 1214 S National Ave. Disposition: * Multiple.

911 / Hang Up — 1:41 AM, 617 S Lowman. Disposition: HBD.

Alarm / Burglary — 2:22 AM, 2400 S Main St #300. Disposition: HBO.

Flood Notification — 3:06 AM, 1604 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Other Agency Assist — 3:26 AM, 18th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Trees Down / Storm Related — 4:50 AM, 155th, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 8:28 AM, 12 S Main St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 9:04 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Trees Down / Storm Related — 9:11 AM, 1816 E Oak. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 9:45 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Transport / Prisoner — 9:45 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Vin Inspections / County — 9:56 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

SRO — 9:59 AM, 1005 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

Domestic / Verbal — 10:04 AM, 3rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Seeking Advice/Info — 10:10 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 10:34 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

27,28,29 Checks — 11:20 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Animal Control — 12:26 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 12:46 PM, 1211 Walnut St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 1:19 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 2:12 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Extra Patrol — 2:47 PM, 1105 E 12th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Motorist Assist — 4:18 PM, Margrave St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

SRO — 4:22 PM, 1105 E 12th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 4:39 PM, N Shute St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

911 / Accidental — 3:43 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:25 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:25 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 7:05 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: 77.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 7:22 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Juvenile — 7:36 PM, 606 S Eddy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 7:58 PM, 307 Coates St. Disposition: HBD.

Suspicious Activity — 9:00 PM, 811 S Margrave St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 10:53 PM, 402 S Hill St. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:01 PM, 1801 Steen. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 11:33 AM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:38 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:57 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 12:13 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:35 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:36 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 12:39 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 12:50 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:51 PM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:57 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:09 PM, 2207 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:28 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:36 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:39 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:49 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:52 PM, 75th, Uniontown. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:03 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:04 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 2:14 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:24 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:37 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:48 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:49 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:33 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:49 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 3:49 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:19 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:40 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:48 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:49 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:54 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:37 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:53 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 6:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:12 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 7:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 8:13 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:14 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:36 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:50 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:32 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:37 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:17 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:55 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Total Calls for Service: 123

Documents:

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Police Department

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 8–9, 2026

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Fort Scott Police Day Sheets

Fort Scott Police Day Sheets – September 8–9, 2026

Fort Scott police, fire and EMS logged 189 calls for service on September 8–9, 2026.

September 8, 2026

Reports and Arrests

Lost Property — 11:05 AM, 293 E 20th St. Complaint No. 26-0832BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 1:49 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0833BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Accident / Injury Unknown — 5:07 PM, 1234 125th, Redfield. Complaint No. 26-0834BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 7:57 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0835BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Fraud — 7:59 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01456FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 10:43 PM, 1920 S Main St. Complaint No. 26-0836BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Fire and EMS

Fire / Grass — 10:13 AM, 407 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Grass — 2:34 PM, 411 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS / Transfer — 4:02 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 5:07 PM, 802 W 18th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Medical Alarm — 6:51 PM, 923 Holbrook St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 7:34 PM, 101 Andrick St, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 7:36 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 8:38 PM, 102 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 9:11 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 9:16 PM, 724 S Clark. Disposition: * Multiple.

Public Assist — 11:55 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 7:09 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:08 AM, 3rd St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:48 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:55 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:57 PM, 25th, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:48 PM, 21st St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:56 PM, 2nd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 8:50 PM, 6th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 9:10 PM, Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 10:46 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:43 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Other Calls for Service

Check Subject — 1:08 AM, 1010 Park Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Criminal Damage — 1:26 AM, 204 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: * Multiple.

27,28,29 Checks — 2:33 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Accident / Non-Injury — 7:02 AM, 65 Hwy, Xenia. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 7:37 AM, 603 S National Ave. Disposition: RPTS.

Seeking Advice/Info / County — 7:52 AM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

Court — 8:28 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 8:40 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:54 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 9:55 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 11:04 AM, 113 Barbee St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:56 AM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 12:24 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Remove Subject — 12:32 PM, 303 Washington St, Uniontown. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 12:34 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Accidental — 12:49 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 1:52 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: 77.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 2:38 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

911 / Accidental — 2:44 PM, 1616 Judson, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Check Records / Criminal History — 3:35 PM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 3:42 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

SRO — 3:49 PM, 1105 E 12th, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: NR.

Other Agency Assist — 4:07 PM, 39 Hwy, Neosho County. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 5:49 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 5:49 PM, 11th St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 1:29 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 1:36 PM, 401 Woodlandhills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTS.

Follow-Up — 3:14 PM, 109 S Broadway, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Vehicle — 8:28 PM, 1920 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 9:01 PM, 102 S National Ave, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 10:16 PM, 3 W Oak St, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Area — 10:23 PM, N Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Panic — 10:27 PM, 1238 S Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 11:52 PM, 121 N Washington St. Disposition: HBO.

September 9, 2026

Reports and Arrests

Juvenile — 8:43 AM, Margrave St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01457FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Warrant Service / Arrest — 11:00 AM, 2420 S Main St. Complaint No. 26-01458FS. Disposition: ARRC.

Suspicious Activity — 12:15 PM, 733 S Little St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01459FS. Disposition: RPTC.

Theft — 12:44 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01460FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Trespassing — 2:05 PM, 816 S Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01461FS. Disposition: RPTG.

Other Agency Assist — 3:56 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0844BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Traffic Stop — 4:02 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0845BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 12:26 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0837BB. Disposition: RPTC.

Traffic Stop — 1:10 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0841BB. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:16 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0839BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:18 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0840BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:18 PM, 69 Hwy. Complaint No. 26-0842BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 1:20 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0838BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Traffic Stop — 4:36 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: RPTG. Complaint No. 26-0846BB.

Traffic Stop — 4:49 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0847BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:01 PM, Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-01462FS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:01 PM, Main St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0848BB. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:37 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0849BB. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:05 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0850BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Seeking Advice/Info / Walk-In — 7:09 PM, 293 E 20th St, Fort Scott. Complaint No. 26-0851BB. Disposition: RPTG.

Other Agency Assist — 7:18 PM, 401 Woodlandhills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Complaint No. 26-01463FS. Disposition: HBO.

Fire and EMS

EMS — 5:01 AM, 106 Grant. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Alarm — 8:21 AM, 400 Marble Rd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS — 8:54 AM, 2403 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS — 11:05 AM, 2322 S Main St. Disposition: AMBU.

Fire / Grass — 4:24 PM, 524 Meadow Ln, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Fire / Grass — 5:41 PM, 407 130th, Fort Scott. Disposition: FIRE.

EMS / Blood Draw — 7:08 PM, 293 E 20th St. Disposition: * Multiple.

EMS — 9:22 PM, 737 Heylman, Fort Scott. Disposition: AMBU.

EMS / Transfer — 11:06 PM, 401 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stops

Traffic Stop — 4:17 AM, Sheps Curve, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:22 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 5:08 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:12 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:37 AM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:29 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:34 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:37 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:41 AM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:43 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Stop — 11:51 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:53 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:57 AM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 11:58 AM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:01 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:09 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:21 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:21 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:25 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:25 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:27 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:31 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:39 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:39 PM, 6th St, Uniontown. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 12:42 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:09 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 1:53 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 2:06 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:23 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:33 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:44 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:49 PM, Indian Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:55 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:56 PM, Wall St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:56 PM, Fern Rd, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 2:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 2:59 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: * Multiple.

Traffic Stop — 3:09 PM, 23rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:34 PM, 5th St, Uniontown. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:40 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:51 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 3:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:06 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:23 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:33 PM, 1920 S Main St. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:44 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:44 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 4:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:09 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:40 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:40 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:51 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:52 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 5:58 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:06 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:07 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:11 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:12 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:19 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:23 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:26 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:34 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:38 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 6:46 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:05 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:20 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:23 PM, 3rd St, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Traffic Stop — 7:35 PM, 69 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: WW.

Other Calls for Service

911 / Accidental — 12:05 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Follow-Up — 1:03 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

27,28,29 Checks — 5:28 AM, 1604 S National Ave. Disposition: HBD.

Check Welfare — 5:46 AM, 808 Shepherd St #12, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

911 / Child Playing With Phone — 6:28 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBD.

Harassment — 6:29 AM, 700 S Main St, Fort Scott. Disposition: 22.

Alarm / Burglary — 7:35 AM, 1009 S Clark. Disposition: HBD.

Traffic Complaint / Dead Animal Pickup/Debris — 7:51 AM, McCleverty St, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBD.

Court — 8:19 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Court — 8:51 AM, 210 S National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Seeking Advice/Info — 9:27 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 10:05 AM, 8th St. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 10:39 AM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 11:56 AM, 1506 S Judson. Disposition: HBO.

Pursuit — 12:02 PM, Main St. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info / City — 12:17 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Motorist Assist — 2:27 PM, 946 69 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Animal Control — 12:20 PM, 2510 Kansas. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Driving — 3:42 PM, 54 Hwy, Fort Scott. Disposition: 77.

Animal Control — 3:36 PM, 601 N Barbee, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Follow-Up — 4:03 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Other Agency Assist — 6:14 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: RPTG.

Alarm / Burglary — 6:17 PM, 101 Old Fort Blvd, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Alarm / Burglary — 6:17 PM, 1433 215th. Disposition: 22.

Seeking Advice/Info — 6:39 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Trees Down / Not Storm Related — 6:43 PM, Limestone Rd. Disposition: HBD.

Seeking Advice/Info — 7:12 PM, 1604 National, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Vehicle Unlock — 7:55 PM, 2500 S Main, Fort Scott, KS. Disposition: HBO.

Traffic Complaint / Livestock — 8:33 PM, 54 Hwy. Disposition: HBO.

Check Area — 9:19 PM, 902 E Wall, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Check Subject — 4:28 AM, 902 E Wall, Fort Scott. Disposition: HBO.

Total Calls for Service: 189

Documents:

Bourbon County, Bourbon County Sheriff's Office

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – September 10, 2026

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Bourbon County Sheriff's Report

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report – September 10, 2026

Arrested

LaRoche, James Edward (Age 36) — Arrested 9/10/2026 10:20 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Detention Authorization. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Ludeman, Samantha (Age 22) — Arrested 9/10/2026 11:40 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant – Bourbon County (Arrest), Warrant No. BB-2026-CR-000177. Bond: $500,000.00 (Cash/Surety).

Phillips, Lesly Tate (Age 26) — Arrested 9/10/2026 11:45 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor), Possession of Marijuana. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Darnell, Rebecca Zoan (Age 26) — Arrested 9/10/2026 11:45 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance, Misdemeanor), Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Falcon, Joel Christian (Age 26) — Arrested 9/10/2026 11:45 AM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor), Possession of Marijuana. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Estrada, Alyssa Anne (Age 35) — Arrested 9/10/2026 12:22 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Circumstance), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Stihl, Nicholas Alexander (Age 37) — Arrested 9/10/2026 12:22 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Circumstance), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

McNee, Mason Conner (Age 29) — Arrested 9/10/2026 12:00 AM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Distribute Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance), Unlawful Abuse of Toxic Vapors, Unlawful to Obtain Prescription Drug (Unknown Circumstance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Simmonds, Emily Rochelle (Age 34) — Arrested 9/10/2026 1:27 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Circumstance), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance), Possession of Hallucinogenic Drug. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Brandt, Mitchell G (Age 31) — Arrested 9/10/2026 1:42 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Distribute Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance), Unlawful Abuse of Toxic Vapors, Unlawful to Obtain Prescription Drug (Unknown Circumstance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Undernehr, Celina Lee (Age 29) — Arrested 9/10/2026 1:42 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Distribute Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance), Unlawful Abuse of Toxic Vapors, Unlawful to Obtain Prescription Drug (Unknown Circumstance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Crowe, Katie Lee (Age 46) — Arrested 9/10/2026 1:28 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Warrant – Bourbon County (Failure to Appear). Bond: $5,000.00 (Cash/Surety).

Morris, Paul Arnold (Age 51) — Arrested 9/10/2026 5:15 PM by Kansas Highway Patrol. Charge: Violate Offender Registration Act (Felony, Unknown Circumstance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Owens, Jade Ashton (Age 32) — Arrested 9/10/2026 4:48 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Felony), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Burney, Tyler Paul (Age 37) — Arrested 9/10/2026 4:48 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Mullica, Michael John (Age 49) — Arrested 9/10/2026 5:48 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Driving Under Influence of Alcohol or Drugs (Misdemeanor), Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor), Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Cubas, Jennifer (Age 25) — Arrested 9/10/2026 6:12 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charges: Possession of Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance, Misdemeanor), Possess Paraphernalia (Unknown Misdemeanor). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Gonzalez, Levi Jordan (Age 32) — Arrested 9/10/2026 6:11 PM by Fort Scott Police Department. Charge: Aggravated Assault – Use of a Deadly Weapon. Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Mazey, Morgan Reed (Age 21) — Arrested 9/10/2026 8:38 PM by Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office. Charge: Distribute Controlled Substance (Unknown Substance). Bond: $0.00 (No Bond).

Released

Ammons, Joshua — Released 9/10/2026 10:31 AM via Transferred Out (Douglas County).

Randall, Daniel Joseph — Released 9/10/2026 6:05 PM via Surety Bond (Able Bonding).

Rogers, Jaymie Alexandria — Released 9/10/2026 3:14 PM via Cash Bond (Self).

Total Inmates Released: 3

Documents:

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale This Weekend in Fort Scott

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale

Grab your friends and plan a bargain-hunting trip to Fort Scott…

The Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale is here!

Friday, September 11th & Saturday, September 12th

Sales located throughout Fort Scott and the surrounding area. Shoppers from Fort Scott, Bourbon County, and nearby communities are invited to spend the weekend finding great deals, hidden treasures, clothing, furniture, home décor, toys, tools, antiques, and much more!

Sale hours vary by location, so use the interactive Google map to plan your route before heading out!

Interactive Google Map: Click HERE!

Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale Map

Garage Sale Details

Garage Sale Information

Click HERE for event details & map access!

Click HERE for a printable .pdf map!

Invite your friends, make a day of it, and come shop Fort Scott!

Click HERE for the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Facebook Event Page!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701
620-223-3566
fortscott.com

Bourbon County, Elections

Wagner Elected Chair as Bourbon County Republicans Choose New Officers

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Kevin Wagner is the new chair of the Bourbon County Republican Party. The party selected its officers for the coming year Thursday night, Sept. 10, at its annual leadership reorganization meeting.

Katie Casper was elected vice-chair, Jennifer Hawkins secretary and Doug Niemeir treasurer.

Wagner succeeds Kaety Bowers, who had chaired the party since September 2024 and who signed its public statements as chair. The outgoing officers, elected Sept. 19, 2024, at the Fort Scott Livestock Market, were Bowers as chair, Tim Emerson as vice-chairman, Gayle Sackett as secretary and Donna Banwart as treasurer.

Wagner has served as the party’s precinct committeeman for Pawnee Township. Niemeir has served as precinct committeeman for Fort Scott’s 6th Ward. Casper was a member of the county’s Budget Advisory Committee. Hawkins is the elected Bourbon County treasurer, a county office that is separate from the party treasurer’s post Niemeir now holds.

Officers are nominated and voted on each year at the reorganization meeting, and the results are reported to the state. Under the party’s rules, its leadership must include both a man and a woman, Emerson said after the 2024 election. The officers represent the county at state Republican meetings and at the party’s local meetings.

Related coverage: New Leadership Elected For the Bourbon County Republicans on September 19 (2024).

Fort Scott, Submitted

VFW Post 1165 to Line Flags at National Cemetery Sept. 18

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September 18 — is POW/MIA Recognition Day. VFW Post 1165, led by Commander Jerry Shead, will be lining flags at the entrance to the National Cemetery and throughout the cemetery beginning at 7:00 a.m., with flag retirement at 4:00 p.m.

The Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) softball team and three coaches will assist, along with a group from the Kansas Renewal Institute.

Schools

USD 234 Preschool Child Find Screenings, Oct. 2

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USD 234 Preschool Screenings — October 2, 2026

USD 234 will provide preschool screenings for children up to the age of 5 years on October 2, 2026. Children may have vision, hearing, speech/communication, motor skills, socialization skills, and general development screened.

The purpose of the screenings is to locate and identify children with possible developmental delays who may need special education preschool and/or related services.

Appointments may be scheduled by calling Tammy Catron, Fort Scott Preschool Center Secretary, at (620) 223-8965, Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

  • What: USD 234 Preschool Screenings
  • When: October 2, 2026
  • Where: Fort Scott Preschool Center
  • Contact: Tammy Catron, Fort Scott Preschool Center Secretary — (620) 223-8965

Documents:

Entertainment

BCCT Auditions: Voices from the Grave, Sept. 20–21

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Bourbon County Community Theatre (BCCT) is holding auditions for the 3rd Annual Voices from the Grave, an original production based on stories from Bourbon County’s history.

Auditions are 6–8 p.m. on Sept. 20 or 21 at the Ellis Fine Arts Center at Fort Scott Community College. Those who audition must be age 14 or over and only need to attend one evening of auditions. Rehearsal times will be scheduled in small groups with the Director, Christina King.

Voices from the Grave takes place from 7–9 p.m. on Oct. 24 at the Walking Trail at Fort Scott Community College. Guests will enjoy a guided walking tour of short acting vignettes centering around ghostly incidents in Fort Scott. Scenes were written by the Advanced Drama class at Fort Scott High School and BCCT members.

Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available from bcct.ludus.com. Tour times must be pre-scheduled and run every 20 minutes. Parents must accompany children under the age of 14.

More information can be found on the Bourbon County Community Theatre Facebook page or by contacting King at 913-827-6401.

Government, Kansas

Kansas Commerce Launches BLOCK Downtown Grant Program

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced the launch of the Building Local Opportunity through Coordinated Kansas Investment (BLOCK) program, a competitive placemaking initiative designed to help one Kansas community dramatically transform the appearance of a downtown block.

A total of $500,000 is available through this pilot program. One award will be made. The BLOCK application period will open September 11, 2026, and close September 30, 2026. The award will be announced by October 10, 2026, and all funded improvements must be completed before December 15, 2026.

“This is a Kansas-style ‘extreme makeover’ for a BLOCK of your main street,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “If you need to spend October figuring out who is going to do the work, this isn’t the right opportunity for your town. We’re looking for communities that have a vision, have done the groundwork, and have the people in place to make it happen FAST.

“The goal is more investment, stronger businesses and a more robust local economy.”

BLOCK is intentionally different from traditional grant programs by encouraging communities to coordinate multiple properties, partners and investments around a shared vision. The program is designed for communities that can create a dramatic impact in a short amount of time.

Projects may include improvements such as new awnings, tuckpointing, signage, painting, façade improvements, lighting and other strategic enhancements that can quickly transform the appearance and vitality of a downtown block. The goal is to take the buildings, businesses and assets that already exist and make the entire block look and feel dramatically different so they generate additional economic activity.

The compressed timeline also is intentional. Commerce wants the work completed before below-freezing temperatures and Kansas winter weather make exterior improvements more difficult. That means applicants need to come prepared. Contractors, painters, masons, sign companies, suppliers and other key partners should already be identified and ready to begin work when an application is submitted.

Inspired by the rapid, collaborative transformations popularized by “extreme makeover” programs, BLOCK brings community partners, property owners, businesses, contractors and resources together to create a visible, concentrated transformation in a short period of time. Once the project has begun, the awarded community will be expected to begin and finish all construction and rehabilitation efforts within a 14-day window.

“Instead of investing in one building at a time, we are asking communities to look at an entire block and ask, ‘What would happen if we coordinated all of these investments at once?'” Commerce Assistant Secretary Matt Godinez said.

Communities applying for BLOCK will be asked to show Commerce the block as it exists today and show what it could become. Applicants will identify a single downtown block containing at least three structures and present a coordinated strategy for creating a dramatic transformation.

A 1:1 match is required, with matching funds secured at the time of application. Of the required match, at least 75% must be provided through cash or grant funds, while up to 25% may be provided through documented in-kind contributions. Communities demonstrating additional public-private investment and strong coordination with other funding programs will receive additional consideration.

Additional program information and application materials are available here.

About the Quality Places Division: Established in 2024, the Quality Places Division at the Kansas Department of Commerce exists to improve quality of life in communities across the state through various programs and services. The Kansas Department of Commerce understands the immense role played by strong communities in economic development and prioritizes investments in people and communities as major contributors to the overall strength of the Kansas economy. To learn more, click 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.