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All posts by Loretta George
New Offerings At the Annual Shead Farm Festival This Saturday, May 16
Vickie and Larry Shead from their farm’s Facebook page.
Vickie and Larry Shead work diligently every year to have a homestead festival at their farm, located near Garland in Bourbon County. They do this to encourage the community in homesteading.
Alongside them are their children, grandchildren and community members who share in their enthusiasm for the homestead lifestyle.
According to Webster’s Dictionary, homesteading is “the act or practice of living frugally or self-sufficiently, especially by growing and preserving food.”
Over the years, the Sheads have widened the scope of their farm festival to include locals and a festival that includes events, entertainment, and vendors, making it a fun family day.
The Shead Farm Festival is this Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. at 2468 Cavalry Road, Garland. Tickets are $5 or for a family of five or more members $25. For more information 620.224.4149 or www.sheadfarm.com.
From their Facebook page.
Vickie Shead said there are new events added this year and some new vendors.
“Laura James from Lucky Horse Ranch will be bringing her miniature horses for young children to ride.
“Also, Steve William, from Redfield, will be at the festival with wagon rides pulled by his giant draft horses.
“Other new vendors include: chicken tractors, canning shelves, herb/spices, birdhouses, books, baskets, fudge, pork rinds, sourdough items, and more!” she said.
Information booths will include the National Resources Conservation Service, explaining their grant program to help people farm and garden.
The Shead Farm Homestead Festival is offering kids vendor booth spots for young business-minded kids who would like to sell their products or services.
If you have a young business minded child and you have been looking for an opportunity to sell their product or service, you have found it. Sign up for a spot at the Shead Farm Festival kids vendor booths. We look forward to hosting your young vendor and shopping their business booths.
Sign up for a kids (ages 6-18) vendor booth spot for FREE today by clicking HERE!
Crawford County Law Enforcement Pursue Vehicle Into Bourbon County: Shots Fired
The following is the press release issued by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. This is all information being released at this time.
The KBI is investigating an officer-involved shooting that occurred Thursday night in Bourbon County involving deputies from the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office.
The Crawford County Sheriff’s Office requested KBI assistance at approximately 11:40 p.m. Thursday, May 7. KBI agents responded to the scene.
Late Thursday evening, the Crawford County Sheriff’s Office received a report of a stolen semi-truck traveling northbound from Pittsburg. The vehicle was reported to be driving into oncoming traffic and fleeing from local law enforcement.
Crawford County deputies pursued the vehicle after the driver refused an attempted traffic stop. During the pursuit, the suspect continued to drive the wrong way in the southbound lanes. Deputies attempted to disable the vehicle but were unsuccessful.
As the pursuit continued into Bourbon County, two Crawford County deputies discharged their firearms, striking the suspect and vehicle. The suspect lost control of the vehicle near Highway 69 and Indian Road and was taken into custody.
The suspect was treated at a local hospital before being transferred to a regional medical center and is now in stable condition. No law enforcement officers were injured during the incident.
This independent investigation aims to discover all events leading up to the officer-involved shooting. In police use of force cases, the KBI releases details to the public as soon as possible. This information is preliminary in nature and is based on evidence collected and early statements of the parties involved, witnesses, medical personnel and others. It does not represent final or thorough findings which take several weeks to complete.
The investigation remains ongoing.
45th Annual Good Ol’ Days is June 5-6: A Festival For the Whole Family
Good Ol Days Co-Chairman Shawn O’Brien says the steering committee of the annual event has been planning a fun-filled family event for the first weekend of June.
This is the 45th annual festival, with a theme this year (inspired by America’s 250th birthday celebration), “Red, White, and Good Ol’ Days”.
This year, want to try to ride a camel?
” We have added camel rides with Pappy’s Camels out of Nebraska,” O’Brien said. It will be an exciting adventure for $10 you can ride a camel, open to all ages.”
” We also have a new kangaroo encounter opportunity that we are adding, with Amy’s Kritters. You can sit, hold and take pictures with a kangaroo Joey which is also fun for all ages.”
“We also have a new remote-controlled car experience for everyone to enjoy with a small admission price. Tierra (Ford) Kessinger a Fort Scott alum, is going to bring in a new opportunity to drive your own remote controlled car. We are excited to work with Tierra and look forward to having something on Friday night to enjoy after the parade.”
Bounce houses will also be available for the young.
” We are still looking for a sponsor for the bounce houses to keep those free for kids of all ages. If you would like to help sponsor this great activity for the kids, please email Shawn at [email protected] .
“We have a wonderful variety of vendors this year. We are always looking for more. We have some new and different food trucks, and of course some old ones that we keep around like funnel cakes, burgers, suzies, turkey legs, roasted corn, and so much more.”
Our festival takes place on Friday, June 5th, and Saturday, June 6. Co-chairTrey Sharp has worked up a great list of entertainment.”
” We will have the Bourbon County Revival, Bound and Determined, and other groups. Friday will feature the KC All Stars, and they are a fun-filled band. Check out the free live entertainment on the Care to Share stage on Skubitz Plaza.”
“We also have a new remote-controlled car experience for everyone to enjoy with a small admission price. Tierra (Ford) Kessinger a Fort Scott alum, is going to bring in a new opportunity to drive your own remote controlled car. We are excited to work with Tierra and look forward to having something on Friday night to enjoy after the parade.”
“We are always looking for new or existing sponsors. We are a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and are supported fully by donations from the community. You can send an email to [email protected] to inquire on how you can become a sponsor. “
“We have many returning events, such as the car show on Saturday. We also have the melodrama, the Red Garter Saloon, and so much more. Check out the full list of events on our webpage at www.fortscottgoodoldays.com. You can also follow us on Facebook at Fort Scott Good Ol’ Days.”
The steering committee is made up of all volunteers: Co-Chairs Shawn O’Brien and Trey Sharp, Treasurer Shawn O’Brien, Secretary Angel Wilson, and other members: Danielle Hull, Leslie Godden, Rachel Carpenter, and Fort Representative Carl Brenner.
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
Kansas Common Sense – May 4, 2026
Hello,
Welcome to “Kansas Common Sense.” Thanks for your continued interest in receiving my weekly newsletter. Please feel free to forward it on to your family and friends if it would interest them.
In This Issue:
- Honoring Fallen Kansas Police Officers
- New Milestone for Wichita: Opening the Bell Textron Assembly Center
- Reviewing the President’s FY27 Budget Request for NASA
- Leading Hearing to Review Pending Veterans Legislation with VA & VSOs
- Confirmed: ATF Director Robert Cekada
- Discussing Academic Research with the KU Chancellor & University Presidents
- Meeting with Oceanographer Dr. Bob Ballard
- Meeting with Knowmadics CEO Paul Maguire
- Meeting with Kansans
- Visiting Frankfort High School
- Celebrating Former Kansas Senator Pat Roberts’ 90th Birthday
- Celebrating National Space Day
- Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications
- Honored to Serve You in Washington
Honoring Fallen Kansas Police Officers
On Friday, I spoke at the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony to pay tribute to four Kansas law enforcement officers who were killed in the line of duty last year.
Hays Police Sergeant Scott Heimann, Kansas City, Kansas Police Officer Hunter Simoncic, Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Office Deputy Elijah Ming, and Phillips County Sheriff’s Office Undersheriff Brandon Gaede were heroes who defended their communities and Kansans. As the words on the National Law Enforcement Memorial say, “it is not how these officers died that makes them heroes, it is how they lived.” These men left behind a legacy of kindness, integrity and commitment to service, and their loss is a heartbreaking tragedy for all Kansans. While we can never repay their sacrifices, we have a duty to honor their lives and make certain their legacies are remembered.
You can read more about the ceremony from KAKE here.
Prior to the Kansas Law Enforcement Memorial ceremony, I met with the families of Hays Police Sergeant Scott Heimann and Kansas City, Kansas Police Officer Hunter Simoncic. Last year, I introduced Senate resolutions with Sen. Roger Marshall (R-Kan.) to honor the service and sacrifice these men made, and I appreciated the opportunity to speak with their families in person.
Sen. Marshall and I also introduced Senate resolutions to honor the memory and sacrifices of Undersheriff Brandon Gaede and Deputy Sheriff Elijah Ming. I am continuing to pray for the Heimann, Simoncic, Ming and Gaede families, and the entire Kansas law enforcement community during this difficult time.
New Milestone for Wichita: Opening the Bell Textron Assembly Center
It was great to be in the Air Capital of the World on Monday to participate in the opening of Bell Textron’s Wichita Assembly Center for the MV-75 Cheyenne fuselage. This investment marks a significant milestone for Wichita and underscores the critical role Kansans play in supporting our national security. Wichita has deep roots in aviation and defense, and Bell Textron’s presence in the community further solidifies that legacy as dedicated Kansas workers help produce the next generation of military aircraft.
As the U.S. Army seeks to replace the aging Black Hawk helicopter, the MV-75 Cheyenne aircraft will provide revolutionary capability as it can fly twice as far and twice as fast as the current fleet. Bell began manufacturing operations at the facility in October 2025 with the first of six test fuselages expected to be delivered to the Army this summer. As a senior defense appropriator, I have long supported this critical program and the Army’s efforts to accelerate its production. I am pleased that Bell Textron has chosen Kansas for this investment, a decision that will strengthen our national security while expanding opportunities for Wichita’s highly skilled workforce.
Special thanks to U.S. Army Under Secretary Mike Obadal for participating in Monday’s celebration and thank you to Bell CEO Danny Maldonado and Senior Vice President and MV-75 program director Ryan Ehinger for their leadership. Thank you also to Governor Laura Kelly, Sen. Roger Marshall, U.S. Rep. Ron Estes and Wichita Mayor Lily Wu for joining me at the event.
Reviewing the President’s FY27 Budget Request for NASA
On Tuesday, as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I led a hearing to review the President’s FY27 budget request for NASA with testimony from NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman. During the hearing, I congratulated Administrator Isaacman on the successful Artemis II mission and thanked him for recently visiting Kansas to tour local aerospace manufacturers and the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson. I also questioned him on America’s efforts to beat China back to the Moon and emphasized the importance of NASA’s Landsat program in providing critical data to support Kansas and American agriculture. Finally, I asked Administrator Isaacman about NASA’s efforts to reclassify Pluto as a planet and restore credit for its discovery to Kansan Clyde Tombaugh from Burdett. I appreciate Administrator Isaacman appearing before the committee, and I look forward to working with him and NASA throughout the appropriations process to make certain America remains the global leader in aerospace and science, research and technology.
You can watch my opening statement here, and my questioning of Administrator Isaacman here, here and here. You can read more about efforts to reclassify Pluto as a planet from USA Today here.
Leading Hearing to Review Pending Veterans Legislation with VA & VSOs
This week, I led a Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs hearing to discuss 25 pieces of legislation with witnesses from the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), Wounded Warrior Project, American Veterans and Military Officers Association of America. I introduced four of these bills: the Optimizing the VA Workforce for Veterans Act, the Disabled Veterans Dignity Act, the National Veterans Strategy Act and the Veterans STAND Act.
During the hearing, I questioned VA representatives about the closure of half of the intensive care unit and surgical beds at the Leavenworth VA Medical Center and VA’s plans to rectify this situation. I emphasized the importance of VA promptly notifying Congress about staffing and workforce issues. This issue directly ties into my legislation, the Optimizing the VA Workforce for Veterans Act, which would require VA to develop, maintain and provide Congress with a strategic human capital plan that aligns staffing levels with current and future projected demand for VA services and increase transparency with Congress in advance of significant staffing changes or a reduction in force.
I am grateful to all of our witnesses who came to testify on this important legislation that would improve VA services for veterans and their families.
Watch my opening statement here and my questioning of VA here.
Confirmed: ATF Director Robert Cekada
I spoke on the Senate floor this week in support of Robert Cekada’s nomination to serve as Director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Through my role as Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I have worked closely with him in his role as Deputy Director of the ATF and had the opportunity to get to know Rob and his commitment to ATF’s mission.
Last year, I welcomed him to Kansas to highlight the relocation of ATF’s Wichita Field Office to Wichita State University’s Innovation Campus, where a new Crime Gun Intelligence Laboratory will soon open. This investment will bolster ATF’s ability to support state and local law enforcement, including here in Kansas. ATF plays a critical role in keeping our communities safe, and I look forward to continuing to work with Director Cekada to make certain the agency has the tools and resources it needs to carry out its mission.
You can watch my full remarks on the Senate floor here.
Discussing Academic Research with the KU Chancellor & University Presidents
On Tuesday, I participated in a fireside chat with University of Kansas Chancellor Doug Girod at the American Association of Universities (AAU), alongside presidents and chancellors from leading research universities across the country. During our discussion, we spoke about the importance of sustained federal investment in research, and the role universities play in advancing discoveries that matter to the American people, including cancer research, space exploration and strengthening civil discourse. We also discussed the importance of supporting students and expanding opportunities through higher education.
I appreciate Chancellor Girod and the AAU leadership for the conversation and for their continued commitment to advancing research and opportunities for students in Kansas and across the country.
Meeting with Oceanographer Dr. Bob Ballard
On Wednesday, I met with my friend and Wichita native, Dr. Bob Ballard. Dr. Ballard is an oceanographer who worked with the Office of Naval Intelligence during the Cold War. He is most renowned for his work in discovering the wrecks of the Titanic, the Bismark and the USS Yorktown, as well as his work in mapping the Black Sea and founding the Center for Ocean Exploration and Archaeological Oceanography. We spoke on the importance of ocean exploration research for items like rare earth minerals. As Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science, I oversee funding of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Education program to enable ocean exploration. We also discussed his upcoming visit to Wichita later this month to tour and lecture at the Exploration Place’s “Finding Titanic: The Secret Mission” special exhibit. Thank you to Dr. Ballard taking the time to meet with me.
Meeting with Knowmadics CEO Paul Maguire
This week, I met with Paul Maguire, CEO of Knowmadics, a technology company specializing in cybersecurity for government organizations and businesses. Last summer, Knowmadics announced the move of its headquarters to Wichita, a remarkable investment and testament to what our dedicated workforce has to offer. We discussed issues facing the tech and cybersecurity industry, and how Knowmadics is working to bolster U.S. national cybersecurity. Special thanks to CEO Paul Maguire and Caroline Canfield for meeting with me, and I look forward to working with my colleagues and industry partners to make certain Kansas is continuously highlighted in these operations.
Meeting with Kansans
Lawrence Chamber of Commerce
This week, I met with members of the Lawrence Chamber of Commerce to discuss priorities for the Lawrence community, including the future of Haskell Indian Nations University. Haskell plays a unique and important role in Kansas and across Indian Country, and I remain committed to making certain the university has the leadership, resources and stability it needs to serve its students. During our conversation, I provided an update on my recent meeting with U.S. Department of the Interior (DOI) Secretary Doug Burgum, where I raised ongoing concerns about delays in appointing permanent leadership at Haskell and emphasized the need for stronger support from the Department of the Interior. I also reiterated the importance of long-term governance reforms, including my legislative efforts to transition Haskell’s governance over from the Bureau of Indian Education to a tribally-appointed Board of Regents. I will continue working with the Lawrence community, Haskell leadership and DOI to advocate for solutions that support the long-term success of Haskell.
Thank you to Shannon Reid, Gene Dorsey, Sarah Plinsky, Brad Finkeldie, Susie Carson, Adam Courtney, Paul Davis, Bonnie Lowe, Evie Lazzarino, Sunee Mickle, Kristine Polian and Amber Sellers for meeting with me and their continued advocacy on behalf of Haskell and the city of Lawrence.
Kansas Electric Cooperative
On Tuesday, I met with members of the Kansas Electric Cooperatives (KEC) to discuss the importance of maintaining a reliable and affordable energy supply for Kansas communities. We covered key issues facing electric cooperatives and their customers, including the need to modernize infrastructure permitting and streamline disaster recovery efforts. We also discussed the importance of dependable mail service and ways to support economic growth in local communities. A secure, affordable electrical grid is essential for Kansas families, businesses and infrastructure, and I appreciate KEC’s continued partnership and advocacy.
Thank you to KEC Manager of Administrative Services Carol Dorr, James Brungard of Sunflower Electric Power Corporation, Pat Morse and Megan Evans of Victory Electric Cooperative, Nolan Numrich of Western Cooperative Electric, Michael Rogers and Kirk Girard of Prairie Land Electric Cooperative and David Light and Mike Brewer of Pioneer Electric Coop for meeting with me.
The Rural Broadband Association
It was great to meet with Kansas rural broadband providers from The Rural Broadband Association to speak about their efforts to connect Kansans. We discussed my questioning of U.S Department of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick regarding the Broadband Equity Access and Development (BEAD) Program during a recent hearing I led as chair of the Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science. We also spoke about our ongoing shared efforts to support rural broadband through the Federal Communication Commission’s Universal Service Fund (USF), as well as my work as a member of the bipartisan USF Working Group to strengthen and improve USF and make certain it is financially viable into the future.
Thank you to Candace Wright of Home; Troy Dierking of Caldwell; Jill Kuehny of Caldwell; Rob McDonald of Madison; Catherine Moyer of Ulysses; Jason Smith of Everest; Benjamin Foster of Miltonvale; Todd Houseman of Dodge City; Cade Dewitt of Madison; Brent Garvie of Medicine Lodge; Ty Sorenson of Lenexa; Samuel Morris of Lenexa; Kim Humphrey of Caldwell; David Nance of Caldwell; Jimmy Todd of Lenora; Rhonda Goddard of Lenora; Chris McMullen of Everest; Shelly Hansel of Wichita; Mike VanCampen of Medicine Lodge; Jason Pettit of Council Grove; Eric Tabor of Miltonvale; and Luke Bunker of Dodge City for meeting with me.
Kansas Association of School Boards
This week, I met with members of the Kansas Association of School Boards to discuss the challenges and opportunities facing schools across our state. During our conversation, we discussed the importance of supporting students through programs like special education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). We also spoke about ongoing efforts to strengthen workforce development and expand access to quality STEM education, particularly in rural communities. I highlighted my support for initiatives like the CAPS Rural Educator Professional Learning Fund, which helps equip educators with the tools they need to prepare students for future careers.
Kansas schools have a critical role in preparing the next generation. Thank you to Shannon Kimball, Jodie Dietz, Emily Riner, Lillian Lingenfelter, Jamie Borgman, Curt Herman, Rod Stewart and Brian Jordan for their work to provide students across our state with quality education.
Meadowlark Hills
On Thursday, I met with Parkinson’s Disease advocates from Meadowlark Hills retirement community in my Manhattan office building as a part of their “Pig Out for Parkinson’s” campaign to support Parkinson’s awareness in the Flint Hills region. As a member of the Congressional Caucus on Parkinson’s Disease and senior member of the Senate Appropriations subcommittee that funds the National Institutes of Health (NIH), I have long advocated for the need to advance medical research on life-altering diseases such as Parkinson’s to improve diagnosis and treatment as we strive for a cure. I supported passage of The National Plan to End Parkinson’s Act, which was signed into law in July 2024. This federal initiative aims to improve early diagnosis, treatment, prevention and cures for Parkinson’s over 10 years. Additionally, the FY26 appropriations bills included $5 million for implementation of The National Plan to End Parkinson’s. Thank you to Michelle Haub, Gail Johannes and David Gadwood for their time and conversation.
Capitol Tour Groups
It’s always great to meet Kansans visiting our nation’s capital! I enjoyed speaking with several Kansans before their Capitol tours this week and hearing about their trips to Washington, D.C.
Thank you to Mike and Connie VanCampen of Turon; Mike and Carolyn Kleiber of Hillsboro; Alan and Susan Boeh of Troy; and Michael and Sarah O’Keefe of Lenexa. A special thank you to Dr. Robert Ballard of Wichita for visiting with us and sharing about his work as a Navy officer and underwater archeologist.
Thank you also to Larry and Becky Jones of Garden City and their grandchildren Sam and William for taking the time to visit with me.
Visiting Frankfort High School
I enjoyed touring Frankfort High School this week and meeting with students, faculty and staff as their school year comes to a close. I appreciated learning about the programs Frankfort High School provides to prepare students for their future. Thank you to Principal Dean Dalinghaus and students Johanna Studer, Ashlyn Dalinghaus, Wes Anderson and Jennifer Schneider for hosting me and for a great tour.
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Celebrating Former Kansas Senator Pat Roberts’ 90th Birthday
On Monday, I joined many of my colleagues in celebrating the 90th birthday of former Kansas Sen. Pat Roberts. During his time in the Senate, Sen. Roberts served as Chairman of the Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry for six years, overseeing the passage of the 2018 Farm Bill and numerous other agricultural priorities. At the event, Senate Agriculture Committee Chairman Sen. John Boozman (R-Ark.) honored Sen. Roberts with an official portrait that will be hung in the Senate Agriculture Committee room. Thank you to Sen. Roberts for his dedicated service to Kansans, and I wish him all the best as he celebrates this remarkable milestone.
Celebrating National Space Day
On Friday, our nation celebrated National Space Day, a time to recognize the astronauts, scientists and innovators who have contributed to America’s pioneering spirit in space. From the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, which inspires and educates the next generation of space explorers, to the contributions of NASA astronaut Nick Hague from Hoxie and astronomer Clyde Tombaugh from Burdett who discovered Pluto – the road to space has been paved by Kansans.
Photo: Sen. Moran with Kansan NASA Astronaut Nick Hague in 2020.
Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications
Applications are now open for students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2031. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.
For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 18, 2026. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board.
Honored to Serve You in Washington
It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
Better in Bourbon Boutique Will Open In a New Building In The Near Future
A downtown boutique will be moving in the near future to a bigger location one street over, with more parking availability.
Better in Bourbon is owned by Rachel Pruitt is currently located on North Main Street but will be moving to a location on National Avenue.
“Better in Bourbon, the independently owned boutique known for its curated items (selected best styles for the season) AND personalized shopping experience, is expanding,” Pruitt said.
The newly renovated space at 2 Old Fort Blvd., in the former H&H building, offers customers more room to shop and a major upgrade in convenience with dedicated parking.
Pruitt says the move marks an exciting new chapter for the business, which began as a small pop-up and quickly became a staple in the Fort Scott retail scene.
“This expansion is about creating a better experience for our customers,” Pruitt said. “We’ve outgrown our current space, and this new location allows us to offer more of what people love—more inventory, more styling options, and an easier, more comfortable way to shop.”
The new location will feature increased floor space for apparel, accessories, and the boutique’s popular permanent jewelry offerings. The additional room will also allow for more curated, head-to-toe outfit displays—an approach that has set Better in Bourbon apart with its “solution-based shopping” model, according to a press release from Pruitt.
The expansion is part of a larger renovation effort aimed at breathing new life into a prominent Fort Scott property, while also supporting small business growth in the community, according to the press release.
Pruitt will be offering other businesses places to lease.
As part of the renovation, three unique spaces will also be available for lease. These turn-key spaces are suitable for a variety of business types and include all amenities. For more information, contact Nancy Pruitt at 620-224-9480.
Better in Bourbon plans to continue operating during the transition, with new arrivals and customer-favorite services still available as the move progresses.
An official opening date for the new space is expected to be announced soon. In the meantime, Pruitt encourages the community to stay tuned and stop in to see what’s new.
Pruitt also expressed gratitude to the loyal customer base that made the expansion possible. “We are so thankful for our customers—near and far—who have supported us every step of the way,” she said. “This growth wouldn’t be possible without you.”
“We’re excited to grow right here in Fort Scott and continue bringing something unique to local shopping,” she added.
The Water Boil Order Is Lifted For Uniontown, KS
Get Planting: Bourbon County Garden Club Sale at Fort Scott Farmer’s Market on May 2
Spring is finally here, and the Fort Scott Farmer’s Market will start May 2 at the Gathering Square Pavilion, located at 111 N. National Avenue, just across from Brickstreet BBQ.
The Gathering Pavilion is a community hub featuring a covered pavilion, splash pad, and the Glide synthetic ice rink (during the winter).
The pavilion houses the Farmer’s Market (May–October), in addition to concerts and events. It serves as a central venue for community gatherings.
The local garden club will offer plants for sale as a fundraiser, as they have done for the last several years.
The Bourbon County Garden Club will hold its annual plant sale on the opening day of the downtown Farmers’ Market, Saturday, May 2, from 8 a.m. until noon, at the north end of the pavilion.
“Proceeds from the sale support beautification efforts throughout the community, including the city swimming pool islands, Heritage Park, the North Main area, and Riverfront Park,” according to Martha Jane Gentry, a spokeswoman for the group.
“Assistance is also provided with the plantings, at the downtown splash pad (adjacent to the pavilion). The garden club partners with Tri-Valley Developmental Services to sell a wide variety of plants, all of which are geared to our area’s challenging weather. Club members offer plants freshly dug from their own gardens.”
“Tri-Valley provides annuals, herbs, and both floral and foliage hanging baskets, all of which are ideal for Mother’s Day gifts. Other garden-related items will be available, such as pots, plant markers, tools, and books. There will also be drawings for several unique pots of flowers and herbs. Knowledgeable members and Master Gardeners will be available to offer advice and answer questions about gardening during the sale,” she said.
“This year’s plant sale has a committed focus, beyond community beautification,” she said. “The garden club has pledged $1,000 toward the replacement of the Lexan roof of the Tri- Valley greenhouse. The (greenhouse) site provides plants for civic areas, individual gardens, and fund-raising, in addition to horticultural therapy for developmentally disabled adults.”
Those who are interested in gardening can join the club.
“The Bourbon County Garden Club meets on the second Tuesday of the month, March through October. The next meeting will be on Tuesday, May 12th, at 6 p.m. Like us on Facebook for news, specific meeting announcements, and photos,” she said.
“Support the Bourbon County Garden Club’s commitment to the Tri-Valley greenhouse’s new roof project, and community beautification by shopping at the plant sale on Saturday, May 2,” she said.
Boil Water Advisory Still In Effect For City of Uniontown
The Kansas Department of Health and Environment rescinded a boil-water advisory for the Bourbon County Rural Water District # 2 public water supply system on April 23, according to the KDHE website press release. But the City of Uniontown, located 17 miles west of Fort Scott, is still under a water boil order. That boil order should end this afternoon, if the water samples submitted are cleared.
The City of Fort Scott was cleared to stop boiling its drinking water on April 21, following water samples sent to a KDHE-approved lab.
“Fort Scott has to be cleared first, then Water District #2, and then Uniontown,” said Uniontown City Clerk Haley Arnold.
“(Uniontown City Superintendent) Bobby Rich took the water samples yesterday to the lab at Frontenac to submit them. They have to incubate for 24 hours, so we should find out by 2 p.m. today.”
“Some people thought we were out of the boil order because Water District 2 is our supplier, but we are following the guidelines we have been given,” she said.
The advisory was issued last weekend because of a waterline break resulting in a loss of pressure in the city of Fort Scott’s distribution system. Failure to maintain adequate pressure may result in a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.
The Boil Water Advisory is still in effect for the City of Uniontown public water supply system, according to the press release.
“Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind notice following testing at a certified laboratory,” according to the press release.
“Laboratory testing of drinking water samples collected from the Bourbon Co RWD 2C system indicates no evidence of bacteriological contamination, and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved.
“For consumer questions, please contact the Bourbon Co RWD 2C water system at 620-223-1110, or the city of Uniontown water system at 620-756-4742, or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information, please visit our webpage: https://www.kdhe.ks.gov/468/Disruption-in-Water-Service.”
Special Event at Hedgehog Bookstore This Saturday
Hedgehog Bookstore is preparing to celebrate Independent Bookstore Day this Saturday, April 25th and would love for you to join us! We’ll have special activities and promotions from 10 am to 5 pm.
Golden Ticket Hunt – Find the golden ticket hidden somewhere in the store and win 12 FREE audiobooks from Libro.fm!
Giveaways – Every $10 you spend gets you a ticket for a chance to win book bundles and gift certificates!
Mystery Book Bundles – We’ll be offering wrapped bundles of books in specific genres. These are great if you love a surprise or want to broaden your horizons!
Make Your Own Bookmark – Kids & those who are young at heart will have a chance to create their own bookmark!
Golden Ticket Hunt – Find the golden ticket hidden somewhere in the store and win 12 FREE audiobooks from Libro.fm! Giveaways – Every $10 you spend gets you a ticket for a chance to win book bundles and gift certificates!Mystery Book Bundles – We’ll be offering wrapped bundles of books in specific genres. These are great if you love a surprise or want to broaden your horizons!Make Your Own Bookmark – Kids & those who are young at heart will have a chance to create their own bookmark!If you aren’t able to come in but still want to support the store, you can:
* Make a purchase at the Hedgehog Books shop on Bookshop.org. A portion of each purchase supports Hedgehog Books, and Bookshop is offering free shipping all weekend!
* Purchase an audiobook on Libro.fm. A portion of your purchase supports Hedgehog Books. From April 20th thru the 26th, Libro is offering customers who start a new one credit per month membership two free audiobooks with code BOOKSTOREDAY. And, they’ll have bestselling audiobooks on sale all week long!
“Thanks for your continued support of Hedgehog Books! We appreciate you and value your continued input on ways we can serve you better. Hope to see you soon,” said Janet Miller, co-owner of the store.
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The Dillons Open The Market at 23 Main
Rob and Lisa Dillon purchased Main Street Gallery on April 9 and reopened the store on April 14 as The Market at 23 Main.
“We bought the inventory and historic building, the Von Fossen Building, at 23 S. Main,” Rob said. “We have always enjoyed flea market shopping, and we were looking to start a business with another downtown merchant, and that didn’t work out. This came available, and we jumped on it.”
The products they sell are consignment items, antiques, home decor, clothes, collectables, and knick-knacks on the multi-level booth areas.
Along with Lisa and Rob and their children, they have hired an employee, Madi Collins, who worked for the previous owners, the McClellans.
The current hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
The store’s phone number is 620.223.2210.
They currently have over 30 consignors and 28 vendors who sell items at the store. “Each booth is based on square footage,” he said. “We are looking for more vendors.”
Lisa is the Housing and Urban Development coordinator for the City of Fort Scott, which includes the Land Bank and the Certified Local Government designation.
Rob has been a locksmith for 15 years and can make duplicate keys for the public. He is hoping for the future of the business to add leather works to the store and an engraving business (on wood, slate, and leather).
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