Friends Now Accepting New and Renewed Subscriptions for U.S. Flags
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. What better way to celebrate than to fly the Stars and Stripes in 2026? The Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site Inc. makes it easy.
The Friends provide homeowners and businesses, within the city limits of Fort Scott, the opportunity to display “Old Glory” on five different flag holidays during 2026 without the hassle of purchasing, placing, and storing a flag and pole. No need to even remember the holiday!
For $40 annually, the Friends will install a 3’x5′ flag on a 12 foot staff at your home or business on each of the following Flag Holidays :
Memorial Day, May 25th
Flag Day, June 14th
Independence Day, July 4th
Labor Day, September 17th
Veteran’s Day, November 11th
Applications for new subscriptions can be obtained at the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce or can be requested by phone, text, or email. Call 417-684-2484 or email [email protected]. Renewal notices are being mailed/e-mailed to 2025 subscribers. Both new agreements and renewals must be returned by March 31, 2026.
All proceeds support programs at Fort Scott National Historic Site including the Naturalization Ceremony, Candlelight Tour, and Veterans Challenge coins among other special programs.
Show your patriotism and help our local National Park by displaying the nation’s symbol!
The Fly the Flag project is a yearly project sponsored by the Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site. Once signed up, you will receive the option to renew annually.
ARTEFFECT Competition
Steps to Participate Step 1: Choose Your Unsung Hero
The 2026 ARTEFFECT Competition for middle and high school students is open through April 21, 2026! The first step for young artists in creating an ARTEFFECT submission is to select an LMC Unsung Hero—an individual who resonates as a role model.
The ARTEFFECT website now features an Unsung Heroes Pictographs Interactive that encourages students to explore STEAM Unsung Heroes through images and photographs. Use this interactive to learn about the positive, profound, and lasting impact their contributions made across the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics!
Remembering the Holocaust Session Wednesday, February 18, 2026
4:00-5:15 PM Pacific Time
All educators are invited to join the next ARTEFFECT online session. Led by 2020 Nebraska Teacher of the Year and 2021 LMC Fellow Megan Helberg, this session explores best practices for guiding students in the creation of visual artworks representing stories of Unsung Heroes from the Holocaust and other genocides. All registrants will receive the lesson plan and recording. Attendees to the live session can receive a Certificate of Participation. Free to join—registration required. Learn more about the session and instructor.
Meet our 2024-2025 Ambassador Jennifer Bolesta, a Visual Art Teacher at Visitation Academy in St. Louis, Missouri.
Each ARTEFFECT Ambassador culminates their visual arts online fellowship with a capstone project that brings the inspiring stories of the LMC Unsung Heroes into their classrooms and communities. Here is an excerpt from Jenn’s multifaceted Capstone Project report:
“Each student created an original visual design inspired by their hero and chosen virtue. As a 7th grade class, we collaborated to select three designs, which were then transformed into large scale mosaics—a permanent tribute to these unsung heroes, which will be installed in our middle school’s new wing next summer. This public artwork serves as both a visual celebration of history and a reminder of the power of virtue in action.”
Congratulations to Jenn and her students at Visitation Academy for their incredible ARTEFFECT projects!
No need to drive out of town for wholesale groceries. We are bringing bulk produce savings local so families, businesses, and organizations can stock up while keeping dollars in the community.
CURRENT BULK SAVINGS:
• Mangos — 12 ct. $15
• Bananas — 40 lb case $25
• Cosmic Crisp Apples — approx. 40 lb case $40
• Russet Potatoes — 50 lb box $20
• Yellow Onions — 6 lb bag $4
Order online by February 12.
Pickup Saturday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
at Perry’s Pork Rinds & Country Store in Bronson.
Don’t forget!
PERRY’S MONTHLY PRODUCE BOX:
Designed for consistent grocery savings and rural food access. Each box includes about nine various produce items monthly.
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
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Monday, February 9, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, February 9, 2026, for
their regular monthly meeting at 900 E 3rd St.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:
Board Minutes
01-12-26
Financials – Cash Flow Report
Check Register
Payroll – January 20, 2026 – $1,801,674.26
Activity Funds Accounts
USD 234 Gifts
Key Club Fundraising Form
Students from Eugene Ware presented to the Board. Working with Mrs. Keating the students cover
announcements and help make the parent weekly newsletter. They have been able to participate in
leadership training at Greenbush and do several fun fundraisers during this school year. Mrs.
Query, Eugene Ware’s Principal, had a presentation that highlighted a few amazing things
happening in the building. She ended explaining how staff morale has been great thanks to
Secretaries Jessica Johnson and Kenda Schmidt and their entertaining projects that include
everyone.
Superintendent Destry Brown informed the Board on great things happening at Tiger Academy and
has appreciated all the support that they have been given.
Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. Mr. Mayfield reviewed
budget projections and insurance renewals. He also updated on Preschool Building project with
the playground being installed soon.
Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on winter iReady scores showing
positive growth throughout the district. Later this week a few staff will be traveling to PSU to
participate in Teacher Interviews with graduation students.
Special Education Director Tonya Barnes shared an update on reports that are coming due soon.
She also invited all to Special Olympics Basketball at Fort Scott High School on February 18.
The Board approved the following:
● Resolution 25-16 Healthy Kansas Farm to School Program
The Board received an informational overview of Fort Scott USD 234’s five-year long-range
financial outlook for FY25–FY30. This review examines enrollment trends, revenue assumptions,
and projected expenditure growth to provide a forward-looking view of the district’s financial
trajectory. No board action was requested.
The Board went into an executive session for property acquisition.
There were none present for public forum.
The Board went into an executive session for attorney-client privilege.
The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED
February 9, 2026
RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:
Barr, Lynn – Supplemental Resignation – Head Girls/Boys Tennis Coach – High School
Campbell, Erin – Resignation – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Hudiburg, Kenny – Supplemental Resignation – Assistant Girls Tennis Coach
Rogers, Jamie – Supplemental Resignation – Girls Basketball Coach – Middle School
Leave of Absence:
Barrager, Terry – Custodian – Eugene Ware
TRANSFER:
Clayton, Emily – Paraprofessional to OT Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Durossette, Jake – Business Teacher to Math Teacher – High School – 2026-27
Weber, Betty – Paraprofessional – KRI to Winfield Scott
EMPLOYMENT:
Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School year:
Hendricks, Caleb – Assistant Principal – Winfield Scott
Martin, Jared – Athletic Director – High School
Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:
Carson, Jessica – Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott
Cooper, Tyler – Custodian – Middle School
Davenport, Sam – Paraprofessional – Middle School
Hodges, Julius – Paraprofessional – KRI
Ruggero, Frankie – Custodian – Middle School
Supplemental Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Carney, Drew – Supplemental – Assistant Track Coach – High School
Chipman, Karlie – Supplemental – Assistant Boys Golf Coach – High School
Sponsor Recommendations for the 2025-26 school year:
Cook, Gary – Head Sponsor – Archery
Whitehead, Trisha – Assistant Sponsor – Archery
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
February 11, 2026 – 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA SUMMARY WITH COMMENTARY
1.0 Call Meeting to Order David Stewart, President
2.0 Flag Salute
3.0 Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
4.0 Purchase of Property
5.0 Adjourn Meeting _____ (Time) David Stewart, President
The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.
Bourbon County Planning Committee Agenda for 5:30PM Wednesday, February 11, 2026
1. Pledge
2. Roll
3. Approval of Agenda
4. Approval of minutes from December 10th and January 14th, January 28th, February 4th
5. Discussion on RFP for Comprehensive Plan and Firms to submit to. The following list contains planning firms the planning commission feels the RFP for comprehensive plan RFP should be distributed to at a minimum:
David Foster and associates
Transystems
Kendig Keast
Confluence
ETC Institute
HalƯ
Hoxi Collective
MKEC
Marvin Planning
Olsson
Shockey
SSR
Future IQ
Miller & Associates
6. New Business
7. Public Comment
8. Next Meeting and Agenda
9. Adjournment
Bourbon County: Comprehensive Plan Development RFP (Request for Proposal) Summary
The Bourbon County Planning Commission is seeking proposals from professional planning consultants to develop the county’s first-ever comprehensive plan. This strategic document will guide coordinated development, land use, and zoning for the next decade.
Project Overview and Goals
Purpose: To create a strategic framework for future development and informed zoning decisions pursuant to K.S.A. 12-747. (Page 1)
Current Status: Bourbon County does not currently have a comprehensive plan. (Page 1)
Target Area: Bourbon County, Kansas, including its rural areas and coordination with incorporated cities like Fort Scott, Bronson, Uniontown, Fulton, Redfield, and Mapleton. (Page 1)
Scope of Services
The selected consultant will conduct exhaustive studies and provide recommendations on several key areas:
Surveys and Trends: Analysis of land use, population density, economic conditions, and natural resources. (Page 1)
Land Use Mapping: Creation of a land use map, categories, and recommendations for new uses that will impact the county’s future. (Pages 1-2)
Infrastructure and Transportation: Review of public and private transportation facilities and public improvement programming based on urgency. (Page 2)
Financial Planning: Analysis of public revenue sources and long-range financial plans for capital improvements. (Page 2)
Public Outreach: A multifaceted program to engage residents, business owners, and local leaders is a mandatory requirement. (Page 2)
Required Deliverables
The final package provided by the consultant must include:
Comprehensive Land Use Plan: A complete document ready for adoption featuring a county vision, trend analysis, and housing/infrastructure recommendations. (Pages 2-3)
Implementation Strategy: Specific goals, objectives, and strategies to put the plan into action. (Page 3)
Digital Assets: Electronic copies of the plan in PDF and Word formats, along with all raw data, spreadsheets, and mapping files used in the analysis. (Page 3)
Submission Timeline & Process
Interested parties must adhere to the following schedule for 2026:
RFP Published: February 12, 2026 (Page 3)
Proposals Due: March 20, 2026, by 2:00 p.m. CST (Page 3)
Planning Commission Review: March 25, 2026 (Page 3)
County Commission Final Selection: March 30, 2026 (Page 3)
How to Submit: Proposals must be submitted in a sealed envelope marked “Proposal for Comprehensive Plan Development” to the Bourbon County Clerk’s Office. Submissions can be made in person or via mail to 210 S. National Ave., Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. (Page 3)
Proposal Requirements
Consultants must include the following in their submission:
Cover Letter & Firm Profile: Summary of qualifications and details on the firm’s size and governmental planning experience. (Page 4)
Project Approach: A detailed methodology for the study and public input strategies. (Page 4)
Project Team: Qualifications and prior experience of the specific individuals assigned to the project. (Pages 4-5)
Fee Structure: An all-inclusive maximum fee for the requested work. (Page 5)
Timeline: An estimated schedule for completion of each project phase. (Page 5)
References: 3 to 5 references for similar projects completed within the last five years. (Page 5)
Inspire Health Foundation, Building the Next Generation of Healthcare in southeast Kansas
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) is excited to continue our series of articles highlighting the great work done by some of our grantees in Southeast Kansas communities. Our next grantee to highlight is the Inspire Health Foundation, a recipient of the inaugural 2025 Mount Carmel Foundation Legacy grants for their Pre-K to Professional, Inspiring Health project.
To combat the declining number of area healthcare professionals in Southeast Kansas, one organization is working to encourage area youth to pursue a career in healthcare: the Inspire Health Foundation, a subsidiary of the Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas. This involves providing educational programming for SEK youth from pre-K, all the way through high school seniors.
“Our goal is to teach our students about health and their futures,” said Leah Gagnon, Inspire Health Foundation Director. “If these students go on to pursue a career in healthcare, that’s a win! If they just leave with a greater understanding of how to care for themselves and how to access services, that’s a win too!”
The Pre-K to Professionals project that received grant funding from the Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas and the Mount Carmel Foundation Legacy grants helped cover tuition costs for students attending the Inspire Health camps in 2025 and 2026. These camps teach students about the human body, how to stay healthy, the importance of maintaining their health, and experience a potential career in healthcare.
“It’s about teaching skills these kids can carry with them for the rest of their lives,” Gagnon said. “We want to make that accessible to as many young people as possible!”
When asked about the impact of granting on a project like this, Gagnon said that she couldn’t express the importance of granting enough.
“Grants allow organizations to take that wish list of projects and make them a reality! When you want to make an impact in a community, you look to that community for support. Our goal is always to make our communities a great place to live, learn, play, and grow, so let’s work together to make it happen!”
Applications for the Mount Carmel Foundation Legacy grant cycle are accepted until February 28th at SoutheastKansas.org/Grant-App. This grant cycle is open to nonprofit healthcare providers in Southeast Kansas. More information about the fund is available at SoutheastKansas.org/MtCarmel. Any questions about completing your application should be directed to Kara Mishmash at SoutheastKansas.org/Contact/Kara.
The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas awarded over $2.8 million in grants from all foundation funds in 2025 and has facilitated over $28 million in total granting to Southeast Kansas since its inception in 2001. CFSEK serves the region by providing donors with various charitable interests and encouraging charitable giving, which addresses present and future needs in our area. The Columbus Area, Fort Scott Area, and Girard Area Community Foundations are affiliates of CFSEK. More information about CFSEK is available at SoutheastKansa
Donna Rae Eubank, 91, passed away peacefully in her home in Fort Scott, Kansas, on February 6, 2026. She was born on September 20, 1934, in Mackey, Idaho, to Richard Fullmer and Elizabeth Raymond Fullmer, who preceded her in death. Donna married the love of her life, R.W. Eubank, with whom she shared many years of devotion before his passing in 1990. She was also preceded in death by her daughter Jeanette Montoya, and her brothers Raymond Fullmer, Jack Dawayne Fullmer, and William Fullmer.
She is survived by her daughter Traci Anderson; her sister Elizabeth LaDene Fullmer; her adopted daughter Judy Metcalf; and her many beloved grandchildren: Emma Anderson, Camron Anderson, Richard Montoya, Aubrey Wolfe, Grant Anderson, Justin Montoya, RaeLena Harlow, Grabriel Anderson, and Abigail Anderson. Donna’s legacy continues through her greatgrandchildren: Nathan Wolfe, David (DJ) Dyer, Robert Dyer, Jocelynne Moore, RaeLena (Willow) Harlow, Jasper Moore, Sydney Harlow, Joseph Montoya, Alejandro Montoya, and Marina Montoya.
She worked outside the home at times, but she took great pride in being a devoted homemaker. She was an active and dedicated member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, where she served joyfully and supported countless members of her congregation with quiet acts of love. She was known for her deep love of family and friends, her warm and generous spirit, and her sassy sense of humor. Her grandchildren lovingly called her “the old lady,” a nickname she adored.
Donna was deeply loved and will be profoundly missed. Her legacy lives on in the warmth she shared, the laughter she inspired, and the generations she nurtured.
A viewing will be held from 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. Saturday, February 14th, followed by a brief private family time at the Church of Jesus Christ LDS, 2109 Jayhawk Rd, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. A Celebration of Life service will begin at 11:00 a.m. She will be laid to rest later beside her husband in Tennessee.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, or Care to Share 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
Michael Timothy Patrick Brown, lovingly known as Mike, was born on June 12, 1951, and passed peacefully at home in Fort Scott, Kansas, on February 8, 2026.
Mike was a loving and devoted husband, a supportive father to his daughter Talitha Ann Brown Reeves and son Kyle John Patrick Brown, the very best Papa to six grandchildren and one great-grandchild, and a thoughtful brother. He was a Vietnam veteran, a skilled carpenter, and a hardworking conductor on the BNSF Railroad.
Mike was born in Richards, Missouri, to Charles Patrick Brown and Mary Jean Goddard Brown, better known as Jane. From his teenage years on, Fort Scott, Kansas, became his lifelong home. He graduated from Fort Scott High School, where he was known for being ornery, smart, and talented in automotive class—often sneaking a smoke break during the school day. He attended Fort Scott Community College briefly with dreams of playing baseball and rodeo but instead chose to enlist in the United States Army before being drafted, proudly serving his country in the Vietnam War as part of the elite Army Security Agency.
After returning home, Mike built a life rooted in hard work and family. He worked for many years as a train conductor on the BNSF Railroad and used his gifted hands to build and remodel numerous homes throughout Fort Scott.
On January 24, 1970, Mike married the love of his life, Vicki Jo Trites, at the First Christian Church in Fort Scott. High school sweethearts, Mike and Vicki shared a carefree, lifelong love that truly embodied “till death do us part.” Anyone who entered a room with them could feel their joy—Mike teasing Vicki until she laughed so hard she cried. Mike cared for Vicki tenderly through her long and courageous battle with ALS, remaining faithfully by her side until her final breath.
Together they raised two children, Talitha Ann and Kyle John Patrick, becoming the most caring and supportive parents. Mike’s humor was never far away—like the time he directed Tally to drive over a low-water bridge just to watch her panic, leaving him and Kyle laughing the whole way. He never missed a chance for a joke, but his love and support were constant.
Mike was Papa to six beloved grandchildren: Hannah, Emmah, Hunter, Hollis, Graycyn, and Kinsley. He never missed an opportunity to spoil them. When parents said no, the grandkids knew they could “go up the hill” to Papa, who would make things right—usually with a full belly and a few dollars in their pockets. He built playhouses, shared fishing and hunting trips, taught lessons, refereed disputes, and bravely took on the job of teaching them to drive. He showed this love every single day of his life.
He was also an incredibly active and devoted great-grandfather to Harlan, who became the light of his later years. Papa ran with her, pushed her on swings, took her for drives, and happily fed her candy for breakfast—perfectly capturing his playful and loving spirit.
Mike was a steady role model to his younger brothers and sister, always ready to stand up for them, even when it meant taking a punch or two. To know Mike Brown was to love him. The mold was truly broken after him. He was the definition of a man who cares for his family until his very last breath.
He was rarely seen without a cigarette in his mouth, a fresh pack tucked into his shirt pocket, and a cup of strong black coffee in his hand. There was almost always a full pot brewing in the kitchen, ready to be poured for any friend or family member who stopped by—because sharing coffee and conversation was simply part of who he was.
He is survived by: Son Kyle Brown and wife Jamie, and grandchildren Graycyn and Kinsley of Fort Scott. Granddaughter Hannah Brandt, husband Caleb, and great-granddaughter Harlan of Hermann, Missouri. Granddaughter Emmah Dikeman and husband Miles of Fort Scott. Grandson Hunter Reeves and wife Madi of Fort Scott. Grandson Hollis Reeves of Fort Scott. Siblings Danny Brown and wife Julie; Margie McBride and husband Danny; and David Brown and wife Stacy. As well as many nieces, nephews, and dear friends.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Charles Patrick Brown and Jane Brown; his beloved wife, Vicki Jo Brown; his daughter, Talitha “Tally” Reeves; and his son-in-law, Hunter Reeves.
A visitation will be held at the Cheney Witt Chapel on February 17, 2026, from 12:00 to 1:00 p.m. Graveside services will follow at Fort Scott National Cemetery at 1:30 p.m. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share 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.
