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Area News, Youth

Heartland REC Expands Future Foundations Scholarship Program to 12 Awards

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Taken from the Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative website.

GIRARD, Kan.  — Applications are now open for the 2026 Future Foundations Scholarship Program, which provides scholarships of $1,000 each to high school seniors who live in homes served by Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative and are preparing for careers in high-demand fields.

This year marks an expansion from eight scholarships to 12, with three scholarships available in each of Heartland’s four voting districts.

The program provides financial support to students in Heartland-served households who are pursuing careers in nursing, teaching, and the skilled trades at Kansas-based schools.

“We’re seeing a critical need for skilled workers across our communities,” said Doug Graham, Heartland REC Communication Specialist. “Whether it’s nurses, teachers, or tradespeople, these careers are essential to ensuring our rural communities can continue to thrive.”

To be eligible, applicants must:

  • Be a current high school senior with a minimum 2.0 GPA
  • Live in a household served by Heartland REC
  • Plan to enroll in a Kansas-based trade school, training program, or college for fall 2026
  • Be pursuing a career in nursing, teaching, or a skilled trade including linework, plumbing, HVAC, construction, IT, and others

Applicants must submit a completed application form, two letters of recommendation, and an official high school transcript by end of day Friday, March 13, 2026. Scholarship recipients will be selected through a random drawing and notified by April 1, 2026.

Complete eligibility requirements and the application form are available at heartland-rec.com. Questions can be directed to Doug Graham at (620) 724-5526 or [email protected].

About Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc.

Heartland Rural Electric Cooperative, Inc. powers rural lifestyles throughout more than 11,000 locations in eastern Kansas. Heartland’s service area includes members in 12 counties, including Allen, Anderson, Bourbon, Cherokee, Coffey, Crawford, Labette, Linn, Miami, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson counties.

Heartland REC is a non-profit, member-owned cooperative that traces its roots back to three original rural electric cooperatives: Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company in Iola, Sugar Valley Electric Cooperative Association in Mound City, and Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in Girard. Cooperative Electric Power & Light Company joined with Sugar Valley in 1975 to form United Electric Cooperative; United Electric Cooperative joined with Sekan Electric Cooperative Association in 1996

Obituary

Obituary of Michael Lancaster

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Michael Hugh “Big Michael” Lancaster, age 71, a resident of rural Deerfield, Missouri, passed away Wednesday, December 31, 2025, at his home.

He was born October 24, 1954, in Noel, Missouri, the son of Robert Hugh Lancaster and Peggy Ann Sellers Lancaster.  Michael grew up in Raytown, Missouri and graduated from Raytown High School.  He later served with the United States Marine Corps from 1975 to 1979 where he attained the rank of Corporal.

Following his discharge from the Marines, Michael married Michele Piano on July 11, 1986, at Olathe, Kansas.  They made their home in Humansville, Missouri where he owned and operated a feed store.  In the early ‘90s they moved to Ft. Scott, Kansas and later settled just over the line in Deerfield.

He owned and operated the Dusty Attic Flea Market on Main Street in Ft. Scott.  After moving to Deerfield, he operated Poor Boys Antiques and Grannie’s Tiques and Fleas out of his home on 54 Highway.  In addition to running the flea market, he also built and repaired computers.

Michael loved to learn and consistently read on a variety of subjects.     He enjoyed construction and working on building projects of all kinds.  He studied up on green energy and used solar energy and other natural resources to power and heat and cool his home.  He also liked to garden.

Michael constructed a greenhouse and used a hydroponic gardening system as part of his operation. He will be lovingly remembered for his ornery personality and his quick wit with a funny joke.

 

Survivors include his wife, Michele, of the home; eight children, Stephen Petrovich (Heather) of Cape Coral, Florida, Michael Robert Lancaster of Belton, Missouri, Melissa Slocum (Erik) of Swansea, Illinois, Christopher Lancaster (Cindy) of Indonesia, Julia Dryden-Lancaster of Joplin, Missouri, Jessica Lancaster of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Derrick Lancaster who is serving with the US Marine Corps, stationed at Camp Pendleton in California, and Keria Lancaster of the home.  Also surviving are several grandchildren and great-grandchildren, two brothers and a sister.

 

Pastor Randy Query will conduct graveside services at 12:30 PM Friday, January 9th at the U. S. National Cemetery.  The family will receive friends on Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel from 11:00 AM until leaving for the cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of John Oscar Younggren

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John Oscar Younggren, 78, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026.

He was born on March 30, 1947, in Hugoton, Kansas, to Jean and Oscar Younggren. In the summer of 1962, the family left their homestead in Hugoton and moved to Redfield, Kansas, where they settled on a new farm to build a lasting family legacy. John graduated from Uniontown High School in 1965 and later attended heavy equipment training in Beloit, Kansas.

A lifelong farmer and cattleman, John also owned and operated a successful heavy equipment construction business providing service primarily to agricultural & water conservation. He had an incredible talent for working with dozers, motor-graders and scrapers—able to set grade by eye with unmatched precision. His skill and dedication earned him the respect of many, and he took great pride in shaping the land and caring for his herd.

On March 30, 1968, John married Linda Louise Colvin; they had two children Meleesa and Jason. They later divorced. In his later years, John shared his life with Joann Hays, who preceded him in death. Their relationship was meaningful and brought him steady companionship and comfort—a chapter he truly valued.

John was grateful for the help and visits from Jason & Maddi Thorpe, and their kiddos. Whether it was checking on the cattle, making him a bowl of chili, or grabbing the mail, their thoughtfulness meant so much. He looked forward to their check-ins—catching up on the new calves or getting the latest copy of the Tribune which was most often a fair exchange between he and the kids for a few pieces of candy, was often the highlight of his day.

John deeply appreciated his treasured nurse, Irene, who cared for him not only physically but spiritually as well. Her presence brought him comfort and peace during difficult times. He was also blessed with hospice nurses and attendants who provided exceptional care and companionship—often sitting with him to watch a rodeo or an episode of Ag News. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to him and his family.

John will be remembered for his strength, determination, and love for family and friends. Survivors include his children: Meleesa Grate and husband Dan of Manhattan, KS, and Jason Younggren and wife Monica of Louisburg, KS; four grandchildren: Maddi Pruett, Allea Ruby Davis and Gage (and their soon-to-arrive son), Alec Blayne, and Reece Adlin. He is also survived by his sister Connie Neil, brother Mike Younggren and wife Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- in- law, Dwayne Neil and special friend Joann Hays.

John’s legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the land he shaped, and the family he loved. His hands built more than ponds and pastures—they built a life of purpose and pride.

Chaplain Derek Harman will conduct a funeral services at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. 2026 at Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Bourbon County Fair and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, Kansas 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of John Younggren

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John Oscar Younggren, 78, of Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away on January 3, 2026.
He was born on March 30, 1947, in Hugoton, Kansas, to Jean and Oscar Younggren. In the summer of 1962, the family left their homestead in Hugoton and moved to Redfield, Kansas, where they settled on a new farm to build a lasting family legacy. John graduated from Uniontown High School in 1965 and later attended heavy equipment training in Beloit, Kansas.

A lifelong farmer and cattleman, John also owned and operated a successful heavy equipment construction business providing service primarily to agricultural & water conservation. He had an incredible talent for working with dozers, motor-graders and  scrapers—able to set grade by eye with unmatched precision. His skill and dedication earned him the respect of many, and he took great pride in shaping the land and caring for his herd.

On March 30, 1968, John married Linda Louise Colvin; they had two children Meleesa and Jason. They later divorced. In his later years, John shared his life with Joann Hays, who preceded him in death. Their relationship was meaningful and brought him steady companionship and comfort—a chapter he truly valued.

John was grateful for the help and visits from Jason & Maddi Thorpe, and their kiddos.  Whether it was checking on the cattle, making him a bowl of chili, or grabbing the mail, their thoughtfulness meant so much. He looked forward to their check-ins—catching up on the new calves or getting the latest copy of the Tribune which was most often a fair exchange between he and the kids for a few pieces of candy, was often the highlight of his day.

John deeply appreciated his treasured nurse, Irene, who cared for him not only physically but spiritually as well. Her presence brought him comfort and peace during difficult times. He was also blessed with hospice nurses and attendants who provided exceptional care and companionship—often sitting with him to watch a rodeo or an episode of Ag News. Their kindness and dedication meant the world to him and his family.

John will be remembered for his strength, determination, and love for family and friends. Survivors include his children: Meleesa Grate and husband Dan of Manhattan, KS, and Jason Younggren and wife Monica of Louisburg, KS; four grandchildren: Maddi Pruett, Allea Ruby Davis and Gage (and their soon-to-arrive son), Alec Blayne, and Reece Adlin. He is also survived by his sister Connie Neil, brother Mike Younggren and wife Mary, and many nieces and nephews. He was preceded in death by his parents and brother- in- law, Dwayne Neil and special friend Joann Hays.

 

John’s legacy lives on in the fields he worked, the land he shaped, and the family he loved. His hands built more than ponds and pastures—they built a life of purpose and pride.

Chaplain Derek Harman will conduct a funeral services at 1:30 p.m. on Wednesday, January 7. 2026 at Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Centerville Cemetery. The family will receive friends Tuesday from 5:00 – 7:00 P.M. at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Bourbon County Fair and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, Kansas 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 

Bourbon County, Government

Revised Agenda for the Bourbon County Commission on January 5

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BOURBON COUNTY,
KANSAS
Bourbon County Commission Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.
Monday, January 05, 2026, 5:30 PM (Revised 01.05.26)
I. Call Meeting to Order
 Roll Call
 Pledge of Allegiance
 Prayer
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approval of Minutes from 12.15.25 and 12.18.25 (Unofficial until approved)
IV. Approval of Consent Agenda
 Accounts Payable & Payroll 12.24.25 $250,716.54
 Accounts Payable 12.31.25 $234,630.63
 Tax Corrections
V. Public Comments
VI. Ben Hall- Discussion Bitcoin Mining & Evotech
VII. Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect
their privacy. – Lora Holdridge
VIII. Old Business
 Handbook Review
 Set Public Hearing Date for Road Closure – Daniels
 Sanitation Violation Update – County Counselor
 Moratorium Update – County Counselor
IX. New Business
 Website – approval of access – Milburn-Kee
 Executive Assistant Introduction & Update – Milburn-Kee
 Letter of Support Request (Scott Wheeler)
 Resolution 01-26 Section 125 Plan Document
 Resolution 02-26 Holidays and Paydays
 Resolution 03-26 GAAP Waiver
 Resolution 04-26 Designation of Depositories and Official Publication Carrier
 Resolution 05-26 ROZ participation
 Resolution 06-26 Meeting Date, Location and Time
X. Build Agenda for Following Meeting
XI. Commission Comments
XII. Adjournment _____________
01/12/26 01/19/26 01/26/26
District 4 & 5 Oaths
Reorganization of Board
Board Memberships
EXECUTIVE SESSIONS – FORM OF MOTION
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to
protect their privacy
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body of agency which
would be deemed privileged in the attorney-client relationship
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether
or not in consultation with the representatives of the body or agency
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of
corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real estate
____ Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to security measures, if the discussion of
such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures
The subject to be discussed during executive session: ________________________________________
State persons to attend
Open session will resume at _____ A.M./P.M. in the commission chambers.
FUTURE
Economic Development
Juvenile Detention Contract – Spring 2026
Benefits Committee Letters
Elm Creek Quarry
Phone System
Elevator
Stop Sign Removal 205th Overbrook
Handbook
Credit Card Policy

Fort Scott Community College, Opinion

America’s Truck Driver Shortage Is a Workforce Crisis by Dr. Jack Welch

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America’s Truck Driver Shortage Is a Workforce Crisis

From the bleachers, the game looks pretty simple. You can draw up all the fancy plays you want, but if you don’t have somebody willing and able to do the hard work in the trenches, you’re going to lose. Right now, one of the biggest problems facing our country isn’t in a boardroom or a tech lab, it’s on the highway.

America has a truck driver shortage, and it’s not just a workforce issue, it’s a supply-chain problem, an economic problem, and a common-sense problem. Nearly everything we use, food, medicine, building materials, fuel, gets to us because a truck driver hauled it there. When there aren’t enough drivers, shelves don’t get stocked, projects slow down, and communities feel it.

The American Trucking Associations tell us we’re already short tens of thousands of drivers, and that gap could grow to more than 160,000 by the end of the decade. A big part of the issue is age. A lot of experienced drivers are nearing retirement, and not enough young folks are stepping in behind them. Trucks move over 70 percent of the freight in this country. Take drivers out of the equation, and the whole offense stalls.

Now, trucking isn’t the only position we need to fill. We’re short in allied health, HVAC, electrical trades, computer technology, welding, you name it. These are all high-demand, good-paying careers that keep our communities running, but trucking is different. Trucking touches every one of those industries. If it can’t move, neither can they.

That’s where community colleges come in. Four-year universities aren’t built to solve every workforce need, and that’s okay. Community colleges, technical schools, and even high schools are. They can train people quickly, affordably, and locally for jobs that are open right now.

A CDL certificate doesn’t take four years. It takes weeks or months. It doesn’t bury students in debt. It puts them to work. For many folks, it’s a straight path to a solid living and a respected profession. Community colleges know their regions, know their employers, and know how to prepare students to be job-ready on day one.

Here’s the bottom line: truck driving isn’t going away. As long as America buys things, builds things, and eats things, we’ll need truck drivers. Investing in CDL programs isn’t flashy, but it’s smart. It’s the kind of investment that keeps the chains moving and the scoreboard lit up.

Thought for the Week, “Every winning team needs people willing to do essential work. When we build clear, affordable pathways into high-demand careers, everybody moves the ball forward.” Gary Welch

Bourbon County

Dec. 5 Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda Summary

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda

01.05.26 Revised Agenda

Monday, January 05, 2026 | 5:30 PM Bourbon County Commission Chambers, 210 S National Ave.

I. Opening of Meeting

  • Call Meeting to Order

  • Roll Call

  • Pledge of Allegiance

  • Prayer

II. Approval of Agenda

III. Approval of Minutes

  • Minutes from 12.15.25 and 12.18.25 (Unofficial until approved)

IV. Approval of Consent Agenda

  • Accounts Payable & Payroll (12.24.25): $250,716.54

  • Accounts Payable (12.31.25): $234,630.63

  • Tax Corrections

V. Public Comments

VI. Discussion Items

  • Bitcoin Mining & Evotech: Presented by Ben Hall

VII. Executive Session

  • Personnel Matters: Discussion regarding nonelected personnel to protect privacy (Pursuant to KSA 75-4319 (b)(1)) – Lora Holdridge

VIII. Old Business

  • Handbook Review

  • Set Public Hearing Date for Road Closure (Daniels)

  • Sanitation Violation Update (County Counselor)

  • Moratorium Update (County Counselor)

IX. New Business

X. Administrative & Resolutions

  • Website: Approval of access (Milburn-Kee)

  • Executive Assistant: Introduction and update (Milburn-Kee)

  • Letter of Support Request: Scott Wheeler

  • Resolution 01-26: Section 125 Plan Document

  • Resolution 02-26: Holidays and Paydays

  • Resolution 03-26: GAAP Waiver

  • Resolution 04-26: Designation of Depositories and Official Publication Carrier

  • Resolution 05-26: ROZ (Rural Opportunity Zones) participation

  • Resolution 06-26: Meeting Date, Location, and Time

XI. Closing

  • Build Agenda for Following Meeting

  • Commission Comments

XII. Adjournment

Supplemental Information Summary

Executive Session Guidelines (Page 2)

The second page outlines the legal framework for entering executive sessions under Kansas Law (KSA 75-4319). This includes specific motions for:

  • Personnel matters of nonelected individuals.

  • Privileged attorney-client consultations.

  • Employer/employee negotiations.

  • Confidential financial or trade secret data.

  • Preliminary real estate acquisition discussions.

  • Security measure discussions.

Upcoming Schedule: January 2026 (Page 2)

The commission has several key organizational tasks scheduled for the coming weeks:

  • January 12, 2026: District 4 & 5 Oaths of Office, Reorganization of the Board, and Board Membership assignments.

  • January 19 & 26, 2026: Continued follow-up meetings.

Future Planning Items (Page 2)

The following topics are listed for future discussion or action in Spring 2026 and beyond:

  • Infrastructure & Facilities: Elevator maintenance, Phone System updates, and the Elm Creek Quarry.

  • Policy & Governance: Handbook revisions, Credit Card Policy, and the Juvenile Detention Contract.

  • Community: Economic Development, Benefits Committee letters, and a stop sign removal at 205th Overbrook.