All posts by Submitted Story
Carnival Games at Old Settlers Picnic on September 4
Labor Day Car Show is September 4
U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter
Visiting with Kansas Cadets at the U.S. Air Force Academy
This week I enjoyed getting to visit with Kansas cadets at the United States Air Force Academy. One of my most meaningful responsibilities as a U.S. Senator is nominating young Kansans to attend our nation’s service academies, and to support them in accomplishing their desires to serve their country. These men and women are some of Kansas’ best and brightest. Having Kansans at our service academies is just one of the many ways our state is playing a pivotal role in fortifying our nation’s current and future defense.
I want to thank Cadet Malachi Feil from Wichita, Cadet Robert Wright from Wichita, Cadet Lauren Steinlage from Olathe, Cadet Andrew Emerson from Topeka, Cadet Nelson Loosli from Dodge City, Cadet Chase Dwonrnicki from Wichita, Cadet Michaela Birkholz, Cadet Tyler Simms from Olathe, Cadet Zachary Bollinger from Hesston, and Cadet Mason Vasta from Overland Park for joining me at lunch.
Update on Quivira National Wildlife Refuge
On Thursday, I spoke with the United States Fish and Wildlife Service (FWS) Director, Martha Williams, to discuss concerns about her agency’s Request to Secure Water with the Kansas Depart of Agriculture-Division of Water Resources related to senior water rights of the Quivira National Wildlife Refuge in south-central Kansas. I reiterated concerns from Kansans on the potential uncertainty and unpredictability for farmers and ranchers, which could devastate rural Kansas communities and the agricultural economy. I re-emphasized and asked Director Williams to meet with and continue working with local stakeholders and state leaders to find a solution that works for everyone.
Open House at Colmery O’Neil VA Medical Center
On Friday morning, I spoke at the ribbon cutting for the expansion of Colmery-O’Neil VA Emergency Department, This is the completion of Phase Two of the expansion, providing six additional beds for a total of eleven beds available for patient care. The enhancements to the facility include single occupancy rooms for enhanced privacy as well as two additional trauma bays and two behavioral health rooms, providing a secure environment for veterans experiencing a mental health crisis. An additional service is the participation in the VA National Telestroke Program (NTSP) which serves veterans with acute stroke symptoms at VA emergency departments, urgent care centers and hospitals in order is provide acute stroke expertise to front-line staff via videoconference with a telestroke neurologist.
Thank you to Director Rudy Klopfer, Emergency Department Chief Dr. Stephanie Davis and everyone in the Eastern Kansas VA Health System, as well as Bill Turner, Director of the Kansas Commission of Veterans Affairs, for your commitment to serving our veterans.
Captain Richard Federico, Nominee for 10th Circuit Court of Appeals
While in Topeka, I met with Captain Richard Federico to discuss his nomination to serve on the United States Circuit Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit, which has jurisdiction over Kansas. I appreciated the opportunity to ask him more about his career and how he views the role of a judge. I look forward to hearing his testimony at his confirmation hearing.
Attending Kansas Agriculture Summit Reception
On Wednesday, I attended the 2023 Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth reception in Manhattan. I enjoyed speaking with Kansans on the upcoming farm bill, hunger and water issues and new growth opportunities for the agricultural industry. It’s important that I hear from producers and industry professionals to support our Kansas farmers and ranchers.
K-State’s School of Veterinary Medicine
On Saturday, I was pleased to speak with Kansas State President Richard Linton and Senior Vice President Marshall Stewart in Manhattan. During our meeting, we discussed the current successes and future of K-State’s School of Veterinary Medicine. The Vet School is highly regarded within the animal science industry, and has remained at the forefront of our state’s efforts to increase competitiveness in the agriculture industry.
I thank President Linton and Vice President Stewart for their dedication to bringing additional research, educational and economic opportunities to the state of Kansas and look forward to working with them on expansions and improvements to the Vet School.
Ohlde Seed Day
On Thursday, I had the opportunity to speak with Kansas farmers at Ohlde Seed Field Day in Palmer. I provided an update on the 2023 Farm Bill and the priorities that must be included, such as crop insurance, farm conservation programs and risk management products. Ohlde Seed Farms has been producing seed in Palmer for 75 years and supplied resources for farmers across the nation. I was able to learn about the latest and best agricultural technology alongside Kansans who are working hard to keep our state a top agriculture producer.
It is vital to our state and nation that we support our Kansas farmers and ranchers who are producing the high-quality food and fiber that clothe and feed the world.
Meeting with Compass Minerals
I met with CEO Kevin Crutchfield on Friday in Overland Park at the Compass Minerals office. The organization provides various minerals that are necessary for agriculture and transportation. In the 30 years since its founding, Compass Minerals has created thousands of U.S. jobs and is the largest producer of salt in North America. Thank you to Kevin for welcoming me to the office headquarters.
Speaking with Lieutenant General Beagle
This weekend, I spoke with Lieutenant General Milford Beagle Jr., the Commanding General, U.S. Army Combined Arms Center and Fort Leavenworth. Fort Leavenworth is renowned for its high-caliber training programs, spearheaded by the Combined Arms Center (CAC) and the Command and General Staff College. Both the CAC and the Command and General Staff College are pivotal within the Army. The CAC shapes Army doctrine, defining how our troops train and engage in combat. The Command and General Staff College serves as a crucible for future leaders, extending its training not only to Army officers but also to personnel from sister services and partner nations. These institutions play a crucial role in cultivating the next generation of our military thereby having a direct impact on our national security. Fort Leavenworth has indispensable contributions in the training of our military force and I am committed to ensuring our military education and training centers have the essential resources needed for achieving excellence.
Thank you to Lieutenant General Beagle for his commitment and leadership at Fort Leavenworth and his service to our Nation. I look forward to witnessing the continued excellence emanating from the Combined Arms Center, Command and General Staff College, and all of our other great organizations found at Fort Leavenworth.
KIOGA Chairmen’s Reception in Wichita
On Sunday evening, I attended the Kansas Oil and Gas Association Chairmen’s Reception in Wichita. I appreciated speaking with Kansans about advocating for independent oil and gas producers. It is important to promote Kansas gas and oil industries on the local, state and federal levels to encourage American energy development. KIOGA identifies public policies and deciphers regulations that are fundamental to their member’s success and crucial for the betterment of Kansas.
Traveling across Kansas
I love being in Kansas. This time of year, a cool place can be hard to find.
Bo Co Commission Budget Session is August 24
Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
Nelson Blythe
1st District Commissioner
Jim Harris, Chairman
2nd District Commissioner
Clifton Beth
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, KS 66701
August 24, 2023 5:30 p.m.
A budget work session will be held at 5:30 p.m.
Executive Session Justifications:
KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the
representative(s) of the body or agency.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting
would jeopardize such security measures.
Bo Co Commission Minutes of August 14
August 14, 2023 Monday, 5:30 p.m.
The Bourbon County Commission met in open session with all three Commissioners and the County Clerk present.
Jason Silvers, Patty Ropp, Michael Hoyt, Clint Walker, and Rachel Walker were present for some or all of the meeting.
Jim Harris opened the meeting with the flag salute followed by a prayer led by Nelson Blythe.
Clifton Beth made a motion to approve the consent agenda which includes approval of minutes from 8/7/23, approval of payroll totaling $214,430.95, and approval of accounts payable totaling $394,953.25. Nelson Blythe seconded the motion and all approved.
There were no public comments.
Susan Walker requested a 10-minute executive session for non-elected personnel. Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, Eric Bailey, and Justin Meeks and will return at 5:41. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 5:41 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Justin Meeks, County Counselor, explained changes to the drug and alcohol testing program. Justin stated he followed up on last week’s discussion and reached out to Kansas Association of Counties, KWORCC, and KCAMP to find best practices on the process of drug and alcohol testing. Justin said he found out from KAC that elected officials don’t have to follow the policy and felt we needed to update our policy to follow the state and DOT guidelines for CDL drivers versus non-CDL drivers. Our handbook covers non-elected personnel’s personnel and should be followed by Road & Bridge and the Appraiser’s office and those employed by a non-elected official. Clifton questioned why we would have a handbook if they don’t have to follow it. Jim clarified that any county employee who has an accident must be tested. Jim asked if we update our handbook would elected officials have to tell us what pages they opt in and out of? Justin stated there are EOC and federal guidelines that would have to be followed by elected officials. Jim questioned if the commission set vacation for elected official’s employees. Justin stated if the elected officials choose not to follow our handbook and policies, they can hire their own payroll and HR personnel and stated the commissioners handle the budgets. Jim asked for Justin’s recommendation. Justin said to get best practices and update the handbook. Clifton asked for clarification on if elected officials choose to not follow the handbook, they have to hire their own payroll and HR department. Justin stated the ultimate winner and loser is the taxpayer and he hopes the department heads, Commissioners, and elected officials will work to save the taxpayer’s money. Nelson asked why we would care if they don’t follow our handbook policy. Justin replied there are consequence for not following the handbook if there are any federal violations. Nelson replied that’s on the elected official. Jim asked what the liability is if an elected official doesn’t follow our handbook and something goes wrong. Justin said we have the same insurance so hypothetically rates could go up or the company could choose to drop coverage. Clifton said his opinion on drug and alcohol testing is we should test CDL employees. Clifton made a motion to random test those with CDL’s that work for Bourbon County. Justin said the motion should include post-accident testing. Clifton made a motion to random test employees with CDL’s and all employees post-accident. Jim asked about pre-employment testing for those with CDL’s. Justin said you could make that policy for Public Works. Jim stated Clifton’s motion died for lack of a second. Jim made a motion to change the drug and alcohol testing policy to test random CDL employees, pre-employment testing if they have a CDL, and post-accident testing for all employees. Nelson seconded the motion and asked for discussion. Nelson stated it seems hasty to make a decision now and said now everybody will know if they don’t have a CDL they won’t have to get tested and wanted to check with other counties. Jim said we still have to have a drug and alcohol testing policy for our insurance. Justin stated under Jim’s motion nobody under elected officials would be tested even if they wanted to follow policy. Justin said that testing CDL is a DOT guideline and that insurance wants all post-accident tested. Clifton questioned if the insurance wanted random testing. Justin said the insurance states random testing as a should and post-accident and CDL testing for DOT as shall. Nelson asked what the recourse would be if an employee is suspected of being under the influence. Justin said we can ask for a random test if we believe an employee is under the influence. The motion passed will all Commissioners approval. Justin asked if a director could handle an issue with an employee with the new policy and it was decided to go into executive session to discuss non-elected employees.
Clifton made a motion to amend the agenda to allow an executive session before the department updates section. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 7-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, Eric Bailey, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:12. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:12 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Eric Bailey, Public Works Director, stated they are working on asphalting on Kansas Road and hope to have it open by Friday. The crew will be asphalting Jayhawk Road from 69 Highway to the railroad tracks on Sunday, August 27 to avoid the traffic with schools and businesses. Eric said they plan to start on chip and seal at 215th and Zinc Road and head south. Last week Eric and a few members of the asphalt crew went to Joplin’s Special Road Department and they showed them how they do chip and seal and demonstrated the machine and distributor. Eric said they have three mowers out and are waiting for a gear box to come in from Canada to fix the fourth mower. Eric reported the area Nelson called him about has been mowed. Eric said if anybody has an area with an issue to please call or text him with an actual location not an anonymous picture online. Nelson had previously asked for dollar amounts for mowing intersections and Eric explained they used FEMA rates for the tractor and mower and labor and benefits rates for the employee operating to get to a total of $90.91 per hour to mow. It takes approximately 15-20 minutes to mow 150 yards in each direction at the intersection so that would be a total cost of $30,182 to mow the 664 intersections in Bourbon County. Nelson asked for the amount of savings from mowing all the road to just mowing intersections. Eric said the total to mow all roads would be $58,409.68 so the savings to just mow intersections would be $28,227.68. Nelson stated he thought it would be a bigger difference.
The Request for Qualifications for an overpass south of town was discussed. Jim explained that the RFQ is the first step before a grant could be applied for. Eric stated $40,000 is the max that the feasibility study could be per the RFQ. Nelson questioned what the company would do to complete the study. Eric stated they will log traffic counts, determine how to tie into roads, intersections, and businesses, and look at placement among other things. Jim said this will be a broad-spectrum study. Eric said he looks for community forums to happen as part of the study as well. Clifton questioned if an underpass was discussed as an option. Jim said it is a good idea that would save millions and suggested asking Schwab Eaton about it, but questioned what you would do with the trains while the underpass was built. Jim made a motion to let Eric Bailey work with Schwab Eaton to do a feasibility study for an overpass or underpass south of Fort Scott and for the study to not exceed $40,000. Clifton said he wouldn’t second because he wanted further discussion. The motion died due to a lack of a second. Clifton said he feels we need to do it and that it has a lot to with more than just safety and economic development and questioned if there was grant money out there for the study. Clifton stated it is budget time and we’re trying to make cuts and he doesn’t like to see this come from a mill levy fund. Jim said the study could be paid for from the sales tax fund. Nelson questioned if they could find someone to do the study for less than $40,000. Clifton stated a dollar amount should not have been put on the RFQ because in his opinion a company will charge as much as they can and feels if they can use money from economic development to do so just not from a mill levy fund. Jim suggested tabling the discussion and it was agreed to table the discussion.
Jennifer Hawkins, County Clerk, presented a renewal for a cereal malt beverage for KC Mart at 2191 Soldier Road for approval and the Chairman’s signature. Clifton made a motion to approve the permit and allow Chairman Harris to sign permit #208. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Susan Walker, Patty Love, and Jennifer Hawkins met last week to go over a form the auditors had sent asking about the county’s financial policies and procedures. Susan said there were a few items that needed addressed and changed as an organization moving forward. There have already been some changes that have taken place since Jennifer took office, and after the meeting others will be implemented in both the Clerk’s office and Treasurer’s office. Susan said the policies and procedures should be made as an organization and will help when people move out of office to serve as a guideline for new personnel coming in. Riley County’s financial policy was obtained so we are not starting from scratch creating a new policy and changes will be made to fit our organization. They asked for the Commissioners blessing to work together to create a financial policy. Nelson asked if it was to put a policy together and then have the Commissioners review and approve and Susan confirmed that is their intention. Jim said that was a great idea. One item the auditor’s asked for was a list of those authorized on our certificate on incumbency and those listed were: Clifton Beth, James Harris, Patty Love, Nelson Blythe, and Jennifer Hawkins. If anybody else was to do anything outside of agreements or handling of money they would have to be listed on the certificate. Susan said she feels there are other accounts and individuals that need to be added to the certificate. Susan said she can have Justin review the certificate. Another item that was brought up was the printing of names on the accounts payable checks and it was suggested to always have a live signature on the check whether that be the Chairman’s or the Clerk’s. Jim said the Treasurer and Clerk should be the live signatures.
Patty Love and Susan Walker discussed the CD’s the county currently has in local banks. The Commissioners have previously suggest moving CD’s to other institutions that offer the best interest rate. Patty said she had talked to Susan about putting $1,000,000 in a short-term, such as 90-day, CD and asked for bids. Patty handed out the bids received from local institutions. Patty said we have two $100,000 CD’s that are at a low interest rate and she is going to cash them in with the three-month penalty because the new interest rate will be worth it. Clifton said there was money that was soon to be rolled over about six months ago and asked at what rate were they rolled over. Nelson asked how much we currently have in CD’s now and Patty said we have $1,640,000. Nelson asked how much we have available to put into short term CD’s. Susan said it is hard to figure out cash-flow over the next three months and that they will have to figure all officials spending their full amount. After discussion it was determined to put $1,000,000 into short term CD’s not to exceed three months.
A short break was taken and normal session resumed at 6:46.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, Susan Walker, and Justin Meeks and will return at 6:57. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 6:57 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Clifton made a motion to go into a 10-minute executive session under KSA 75-4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships. The executive session will include all three Commissioners, and Justin Meeks and will return at 7:08. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved. Clifton made a motion to resume normal session at 7:08 with no action. Nelson seconded the motion and all approved.
Jim said he went to the poverty session last Saturday at the middle school and that it was a very good program and he is interested and exited to see how the program helps folks in Bourbon County. Nelson made a motion to adjourn the meeting at 7:10. Clifton seconded the motion and all approved.
THE BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS
OF BOURBON COUNTY, KANSAS
___________________, Chairman
___________________, Commissioner
ATTEST: ___________________, Commissioner
Selena Alvarado, Bourbon County Deputy Clerk
8/21/2023 , Approved Date
Obituary of Jerry Eugene Oharah
Jerry Eugene Oharah died on August 17, 2023, at his home in Overland Park, where he resided with his wife and son Gene for the past year.
He was born on December 11, 1940.
He was preceded in death by his parents, Verne and Laverne Oharah. He grew up on a farm in Irish Valley, near Uniontown Kansas with his parents and three siblings; Jack Oharah (Elaine), Lynne Oharah (Marla), and Charlotte O’Hara.
Jerry married Betty Lou Graham on March 19, 1960. Together they had four children; Gene Oharah, Dean Oharah (Daylene), Elizabeth Dawn Armstrong (Jay), and Angela Johnson (Mark). He has eight grandchildren: Angie Zumbrunnen, Paris Zumbrunnen, Tanner Oharah (Greer), Riley Oharah (Julica), Cassandra Armstrong, Zachary Johnson (Kyley), Kaden Johnson, and Ashley Miller (Chad). He has six great-grandchildren: Zion Oharah, Avonlea Oharah, Ledger Joe Johnson, Jake Cottingham, Aiden Cottingham, and Max Michel.
Jerry graduated from Uniontown High School in 1959. His career began with AT&T putting up microwave towers. He and his growing family traveled twenty-three western states, moving every two weeks, from 1962-1967.
Jerry and his family then moved to Ottawa, Kansas where he worked for Southwestern Bell for eight years. He and his family then moved to Goodland, Kansas where Jerry continued to work for Southwestern Bell. He put in thirty-eight years with the telephone companies. He also worked as a motorcycle mechanic and was a talented mechanic and machinist.
Jerry and Betty enjoyed riding motorcycles, and together they rode almost every pass in Colorado, rode in several other states, and Old Mexico.
They moved from Goodland to the family farm in Irish Valley in their later years. With the help of their children, they restored the original home and turned it into a one room cabin (eventually adding on). The family spent a lot of time together at the cabin and Jerry always had a project.
Jerry was a hard worker, generous, creative and a great friend to many. Family was very important to him.
Rev. Marty Dewitt will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Saturday, August 26th, at the Uniontown Missionary Baptist Church.
Burial will follow in the Uniontown Cemetery
. The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time Saturday at the Church.
Memorials are suggested to the Uniontown Missionary Baptist Church 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 to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
Bo Co Commission Amended Agenda for August 21
Bourbon County Courthouse
210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800
Fax: 620-223-5832
Bourbon County, Kansas
Nelson Blythe
1st District Commissioner
Jim Harris, Chairman
2nd District Commissioner
Clifton Beth
3rd District Commissioner
Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, KS 66701
August 21, 2023 5:30 p.m.
- Call Meeting to Order
- Flag Salute followed by Prayer
- Approval of Consent Agenda
- Minutes from 8/14/2023
- Public Comments
- Department Updates
- Public Works
- Resolution 14-23 Appointing an Emergency Manager
- Appointment of Drywood Township Treasurer
- Bourbon County Conservation District
- Commission Comments
- Adjourn Meeting
The budget work session has been moved to after the regularly scheduled commission meeting ends.
Executive Session Justifications:
KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the
attorney-client relationship.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the
representative(s) of the body or agency.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual proprietorships
KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.
KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting
would jeopardize such security measures.
Budget Work Session Moved to the End of the Bo Co Commission Meeting Today
The amended agenda is for the Bourbon County Commission Meeting for Monday, August 21, 2023. The budget work session has been moved from 4:30 to directly after the end of the regularly scheduled commission meeting.
Submitted by Jennifer Hawkins, Bourbon County Clerk
Kansas Delegation Launches “One Pill Can Kill” Fentanyl Awareness Campaign
Washington, D.C. – Today, on Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, the Kansas federal congressional delegation, alongside over 100 Kansas organizations, launched a statewide week-long #OnePillCanKill fentanyl crisis awareness campaign. As students return to school, each member and organization participating will raise awareness across the state about the dangers of fentanyl, the deadliest drug our nation has ever seen. Throughout the week, members will be educating our communities, hosting fentanyl roundtables, engaging in press opportunities, using social media to inform Kansans of the dangers of fentanyl and more.
Initiatives like the #OnePillCanKill awareness campaign sheds light on the gravity of the issue and emphasizes the importance of educating parents and children. By equipping our communities with knowledge about the dangers of fentanyl, Kansans become better defenders against this deadly scourge.
“Fentanyl, the deadliest drug our nation has ever seen, kills a Kansan nearly daily and is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18-45. Known as the ‘silent killer,’ fentanyl cannot be detected by taste, smell, or sight when mixed with other drugs and is up to 50 times stronger than heroin. This poison does not discriminate and has claimed the lives of over 1,200 Kansans across the state,” said Senator Marshall. “Our children do not know what they are up against. That is why, as kids return to school, we are leading this statewide #OnePillCanKill campaign. To tackle this crisis head-on, we are coming together and educating our communities about the devastating realities of this epidemic. As we navigate this crisis, our unity becomes our strength, education our defense, and our shared purpose our guiding light.”
“Fentanyl is claiming the lives of children and young adults all across the country who are deceived by drug dealers into purchasing lethal doses of fentanyl being sold as legitimate prescription pills,” said Senator Moran. “As students go back to school this week, it’s critical that we educate our young folks about the dangers of fentanyl. It only takes one pill to kill, but it will take an army of parents, teachers, students, first responders, neighbors and strangers to spread awareness about this lethal drug to save lives and end fentanyl deaths.”
“Fentanyl, now the leading killer of Americans aged 18-45, is tearing holes in families and communities here in south central Kansas,” said Rep. Estes. “In addition to working to secure our southern border and stop the stream of fentanyl into our country, I am pleased to join my Kansas colleagues in sharing resources to combat this deadly epidemic and raising awareness in communities that one pill can kill. As young Kansans head back to school this month, we want to remind parents, teachers and students of the dangers of fentanyl, and encourage conversations that can protect the lives of those we love.”
“In our state and around the country, the fentanyl crisis has become a public health emergency, with our youth being hit the hardest because they often don’t know the devastating impacts until it’s too late. I’ve had conversations with local law enforcement, health care, and education professionals on how we can best combat this epidemic. Now, the Kansas congressional delegation is coming together to fight this crisis head-on, because one death is one too many. With increased collaboration from all corners of our community, we can help save lives,” said Rep. Davids.
“Fentanyl is crushing families and communities across our state. Over 1,200 Kansans have already died from fentanyl poisoning, and this crisis is only getting worse by the day,” said Rep. LaTurner. “In addition to securing America’s wide-open southern border, proper education and awareness in our schools, homes, and communities can be the difference between life and death. I’m proud to team up with my fellow Kansans to fight back against one of the most dangerous drugs our nation has ever seen.”
“President Biden’s open border policies have turned every American community into a border town,” said Rep. Mann. “Drug mules smuggle fentanyl into our country every day, and now Kansans are dying from overdoses in record numbers. The rest of the Kansas delegation and I are raising awareness about this crisis. We need to equip parents and schools with resources to stop fentanyl from falling into the hands of young people. Most of all, we need to secure our southern border and cut the drug off at its source, which will protect the lives of Kansans and all Americans.”
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports August 21
Robert and Anna Steele Legacy
Forever United in Generosity: The Enduring Legacy of Robert and Anna Steele’s Philanthropic Spirit
Lifelong residents of Fort Scott and Bourbon County, Kansas, Robert Gordon and Anna Faye Steele were pillars of the community. Their unwavering dedication to their neighbors and volunteerism with a variety of local organizations made them cherished and respected leaders. Known for their warm hearts and steadfast commitment to giving back, the Steeles were always eager to find new ways to support local organizations and causes close to their hearts.
Friends who knew Robert and Anna will share how close of a couple they were and that they never saw one without the other. Following their deaths in 2017, the Anna Faye Steele and Robert Gordon Steele Memorial Funds were established through the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation (FSACF) in their honor. Recognizing the enduring influence that their assets could have on the causes they held dear, the Steeles entrusted their legacy to the caring hands of the Community Foundation. By doing so, they ensured that their spirit of giving would carry on together and continue to support the organizations that had captured their hearts during their lifetimes.
“Bob and Faye’s estate, which was a testament to their kindness, now uplifts local charities, churches, and educational institutions,” said David Shepherd, FSACF board member and community advocate. “In their vision for a lasting impact, they chose the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation to steward their assets. As we honor the Steeles, we take pride in commemorating their thoughtful contribution, which perpetually blesses our community.”
This year, the two Steele Memorial Funds distributed $286,739 to sixteen organizations. Since their establishment in 2017, the funds have provided over $1,196,900 in grants, uplifting the lives of countless individuals within Fort Scott and Bourbon County. The generosity of the Steeles has not only enhanced the local community but has also served as a testament to the power of philanthropy.
Year after year, a multitude of local organizations have been privileged to benefit from the Steele Funds. These organizations include The Beacon, Buck Run Community Center, Bourbon County Senior Citizens Center, Evergreen Cemetery Association, Fort Scott Community College (through scholarships), Fort Scott High School (through scholarships), Fort Scott Public Library, Mount Orum Baptist Church, Old Fort Genealogical Society, Redfield Ruritan Club, Uniontown High School (through scholarships), and Uniontown United Methodist Church.
“The Steeles’ gift has been a great benefit for the Old Fort Genealogical Society,” said Ken Lyon, long-time organization president and current vice president. “We couldn’t have accomplished much of what we have done over the past five years if it weren’t for funds from the Steele endowments.”
In addition to their consistent support for these cherished local institutions, the Steeles’ memorial funds have also extended their reach to broader causes. The funds support organizations of national importance, including the American Cancer Society, American Heart and Lung Association, American Lung Association, and Paralyzed Veterans of America. Through their thoughtful and far-reaching philanthropy, the Steeles have left an indelible mark on both a local and national level.
The legacy of Robert and Anna Steele will forever be intertwined with the growth and well-being of Fort Scott. Their compassionate foresight in establishing these memorial funds through the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation ensures that their impact will be everlasting. Donations to the FSACF are an investment to serve others in the future. The Steeles clearly understood that giving to FSACF to establish an endowment protects their initial gift forever. Grants are given only from the earnings of their donation. Thus, it is a gift that keeps on giving. They understood their legacy of philanthropy could help others for generations to come simply by investing in the Community Foundation. FSACF takes great pride in being the host agency for these memorial funds and cherishes the opportunity to carry forward the inspiring legacies of Robert and Anna Steele.
For those inspired by their story, FSACF encourages you to consider including the foundation in your will or trust, ensuring that your charitable wishes can continue to positively influence our community for years to come. To learn more about the process of naming FSACF in your will or trust, visit with your attorney or contact the Community Foundation. For general information about establishing a fund, please visit www.FSACF.com or call 620.231.8897.