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A Fun Refrigerator Door by Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker
A Fun Refrigerator Door
My brother, Randy, was the best. He was ten years older than me and we got along wonderfully. We shared the same sense of humor and he made my life a delight. He was engaging, fun, entertaining, ingenuitive, patient, thoughtful, and kind.
One snowy winter day, when I was six to eight years old, Randy found an old refrigerator door by the barn and brought it to the house. He tied a rope to it, told me to get on, and then he pulled me around the yard on the snow as I sat on the fridge door. Like the witch of Narnia, I had my very own reindeer and sleigh! Back in the 1960s, we made use of what we had and simply created our own fun. My brother made my day and that’s why I still have this delightful memory tucked away in my heart.
Randy has been gone since June 2022, and I miss him. He did his best to stick around for his family, but one summer day he drew his last breath and slipped away to Heaven. My sweet brother reminds me of this scripture, “…There is a friend who sticks closer than a brother” (Proverbs 18:24 NKJV). This verse is often applied to the intimate walk we have with Christ Jesus, and I agree with that theology. Like a good brother, Jesus is there. Like a bridge over troubled waters, Jesus is there.
Being a friend and having a friend go hand in hand. There are friends and then there are special friends, such as a dear friend, best friend, close friend, bosom friend, etc. A genuine friend is someone in whom you have a strong bond, dependable, keeps your secrets, and is honest and trustworthy. Jesus is a friend like no other. No matter how many fantastic friends you have, Jesus outshines them all.
Notice that Jesus called Judas Iscariot “friend” when he betrayed Him in the Garden of Gethsemane. “So Judas came straight to Jesus. ’Greetings, Rabbi!’ he exclaimed and gave Him the kiss. Jesus said, ‘My friend, go ahead and do what you have come for’” (Matthew 26:50 NLT). This was an atrocious act because the kiss was a symbol of friendship and honor. Nevertheless, Jesus spoke with gentle compassion even though Judas’ heart was as hard as stone. Jesus is a true friend that will not betray you. He’ll stick with you like Gorilla glue.
Jesus was known to be a friend of sinners and He would often join them for supper. Saving sinners was the purpose of His coming, so He spent time with them in order to introduce the gospel and welcome them into the kingdom of God (see Matthew 9:9-13).
In the 1800s, Joseph Scriven wrote a poem and sent it to his mother to encourage her because she was ill. He wanted to remind her that she had a never-failing Friend in Jesus. The poem later became a much-loved song in our hymnals: “What a Friend we have in Jesus, all our sins and griefs to bear! What a privilege to carry everything to God in prayer! O what peace we often forfeit, O what needless pain we bear. All because we do not carry everything to God in prayer.”
The Key: Believers have a special Friend in Jesus and He will stick even closer than a big brother.
Getting To The Heart Of The Matter
Getting to the Heart of the Matter
Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. One in five deaths is due to heart disease, even though it is largely preventable.
Keeping your heart healthy starts with living a heart-healthy lifestyle. But first, you need to get smart about your heart. Knowing what causes heart disease, what puts you at risk for it, and how you can reduce those risks can help you make informed decisions to protect your heart and keep it strong.
Want to test your knowledge? Take this short Heart Smart Quiz:
- True or False? High blood pressure is also known as hypertension and occurs when your blood pressure is consistently 130/80 mm Hg or higher.
- True or False? Cholesterol helps make hormones, vitamin D, and substances to help you digest foods. Your body needs it for good health, but in the right amounts.
- True or False? Eating lots of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, using fat-free or low-fat dairy products, and limiting foods high in saturated fat or sugar-sweetened beverages are all part of a heart-healthy diet.
- True or False? Not getting enough sleep or getting poor quality sleep on a regular basis increases the risk of having high blood pressure, heart disease, and other medical conditions.
- True or False? To strengthen their heart, adults should aim to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as brisk walking each week.
How did you do? The answer to all questions is true. Knowing your own risk factors for heart disease can help guide your lifestyle choices, so talk to your healthcare provider to make sure you’re clear. Just as important: know your numbers. Your weight, waist size, blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels all affect your heart. If they aren’t where they should be, make a pledge to begin improving them.
Adding more physical activity to your day, eating a heart-healthy diet, managing stress, getting enough quality sleep, and not smoking can put you on the path to better heart health.
Learn more about heart disease prevention at www.hearttruth.gov or for more information contact Tara Solomon-Smith, [email protected], 620-244-3826.
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Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service
Helping Children Understand Time, Talent and Money
Understanding concepts like time, talent, and money can be challenging for young children. Bradford Wiles, a child development specialist with K-State Research and Extension, explains, “Early childhood is filled with symbols. Money is one of those symbols—it represents time, talent, effort, and investment.”
Wiles notes that the idea of earning money—trading time and skills for a reward—begins to form at a very young age. “As children grow and gain independence, money becomes more meaningful to them,” he says. However, young children often do not fully understand its value. For instance, they may choose a nickel over a dime simply because it appears larger. Understanding what money represents is a developmental milestone that children must achieve before they can grasp the concept of saving.
Moreover, money is frequently a source of conflict within families, and children pay close attention to how adults manage it. “Kids learn what it means to be a person by observing the adults around them,” Wiles states. “This includes learning about money and resources. Parents can set a strong example by modeling positive behaviors, such as balancing spending, saving, and giving.”
Wiles provides an example of a child asking for a toy in a store. A typical response might be, “We can’t afford that,” which could lead the child to think the family has no money. Instead, he recommends saying something like, “That’s not in the budget right now,” or explaining that the family has other spending priorities. “It’s not about avoiding spontaneous purchases,” he emphasizes. “It’s about teaching children that managing money involves considering long-term goals and making choices that align with those priorities.”
Children can also learn the value of money by earning it through their efforts. “In many households, this starts early,” Wiles explains. “Giving kids responsibilities around the house and rewarding them, whether with money, extra playtime, or other privileges, introduces the concept of earning.” He adds, “Kids understand the idea of receiving something in exchange for their contributions long before they fully comprehend money itself.”
By helping children connect their efforts with rewards and modeling thoughtful financial habits, parents can establish a foundation for lifelong financial literacy.
For more information on money management for youth, please contact Amanda Clasen, Community Vitality Agent, at [email protected] or at 620-244-3826.
Native Grass Establishment by Lonnie Mengarelli
I have had several questions about planting farm ground back to native grass. The area used to be all native and many have been plowed up for row crop and then put back to cool season grasses such as fescue and smooth brome. The reason for this is first of all native seed was hard to come by and second fescue and brome are much easier to establish. For those who are wanting to go back to native grass here is what KSRE recommends.
Establishment is the most important phase to ensure system longevity when planning the long-term use of a seeded native grass stand. Native species are slow to establish and do not compete well with other plants, such as undesired weeds and forage mixes. For this reason, native grass pastures can take up to four years to become fully established. Use known cultivars because they have been selected for better establishment and forage production characteristics. Species and cultivar selection, site preparation, seed quality, seed source, and seeding date must be considered to ensure the successful establishment of a native grass pasture. Planning is the key to achieving a successful stand. Before seeding, it is important to assess resources, including soil type, fertility, current and past cropping uses, and how these resources affect the establishment of new native pastures. Producers must understand the potential challenges (existing weed problems, seed bank, and potential cropland herbicide carry-over), necessary changes in the farming operation, available equipment, seed sources, the intended use of the seeded area, costs and returns anticipated, and suitability for wildlife habitat. This information contributes to the preparation for seeding.
The first step in knowing the potential yield for haying or grazing is understanding more about the soil. Soil texture can be identified by a lab test or by searching NRCS soil survey maps available through the NRCS Web Soil Survey (websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov). Additionally, soil chemical properties need to be determined. Previous cropping history, particularly herbicide use, is necessary to prevent seedling damage from herbicide carryover. Seedling damage can result from long-residual herbicides, particularly those used for grass control. Short-residual herbicides are less likely to injure seedlings. Herbicides with rotation restrictions for corn or grain sorghum are an indication of potential seedling damage. Check labels for plant-back intervals and expected suppression. The species and cultivar selected should be adapted to the field’s soil. If several different soils occur in a field, splitting the field should be considered, and changes in seedbed preparation may be required.
A firm, weed-free seedbed is recommended. Seedbed preparation depends on climate, soils, and intended use. In most cases, clean-tilled seedbeds are preferred to establish pastures, especially where precipitation is greater than 32 inches on average annually. The seedbed is tilled as needed to destroy all weeds and leave a firm, friable seedbed. Weed control is a significant requirement for a successful stand. Using a cultipacker or similar equipment before and/or after seeding can greatly improve the stand of grass, especially during seasons of low rainfall. This approach stores soil moisture but requires precipitation after seeding to ensure a successful stand. As with all seeds, proper seeding depth is important to obtain adequate establishment of native grasses. Most seeds cannot emerge from deeper than 1/2 to 1 inch. Grass drills will handle the fluffy seed of most native grass species and ensure accurate placement, delivering the seed at a uniform rate.
Companies selling certified seed are required by law to inform buyers of seed quality. This allows buyers to determine the amount of seed to plant. Native grass seed quality is measured on a pure-live-seed (PLS) basis, which is calculated based on germination and purity. Seeding rates vary by soil, precipitation, and intended use of the seeding. For help selecting seeding rates and mixtures, consult the county Natural Resource Conservation Service Office, local K-State Research and Extension office, wildlife agencies, or seed dealers.
Recommended planting dates are based on research, but they may be adjusted for your region based on local knowledge. The optimum seeding date for warm-season grasses is about 2 weeks before the average last frost date and at least 6 weeks before hot, dry summer weather. If that is not possible, 1 month before to 3 weeks after the average last frost date may be an acceptable period for seeding. This allows the seedling 6 to 8 weeks to establish the permanent root system before hot, dry summer weather. We are in Zone 1 which translates to February 15th through May 1st time frame with the optimal dates of March 25th to April 10th in “typical” year.
Fertilizer maybe required when establishing a new stand of native grasses due to our higher precipitation in our area. Lime is suggested if the pH is below 6.0. Taking soil samples contributes to successful seeding. Consult NRCS or local K-State Research and Extension personnel for local needs. If soil test recommend fertilizer and it is applied it may stimulate weed competition during the establishment phase.
Although native grass is more difficult to establish, in the long run its valve outweighs the input cost. The area used to be all native grasses and that is the standard in which soil health is based on, and we as stewards of the land should consider looking at reestablishing natives grass when possible.
Lonnie Mengarelli is a K-State Research and Extension Agriculture agent assigned to Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-223-3720
Tina Sullivan, Northeast Area Agronomist
[email protected]
Bruno Pedreira, former Southeast Area Agronomist
Walt Fick, Professor Emeritus
Obituary of Gordon Phillips
Gordon Leon Phillips, age 67, recently of Englewood, Colorado, passed away peacefully in his sleep while at home on Sunday, February 2, 2025.
Gordon was born August 28, 1957, in Fort Scott Kansas, the son of Thomas E Phillips and Josephine Marie(nee McDaniel) Phillips.
Gordon worked as a mechanic for various businesses throughout his career.
He was a graduate of the Fort Scott Senior High, class of 1975.
He had a passion for music and played several types of guitars. He also had a passion for gardening and cooking, often sharing his garden harvests and food creations with his neighbors and friends.
Gordon is survived by his eldest daughter, Heather Phillips, a son Robert Phillips, a daughter Nicole Phillips Sweat, a son Adam Phillips, grandchildren are Shyanne, Skylar, Shane, Shelby, Cody, Mindy, Kaden, Jase, and great-grandchildren Trinity, Gabriel, Raelynn, and twins Brantley and Lilyana.
He is also survived by several cousins, friends, and his dog Chico.
He was preceded in death by his mother and his father, a brother Thomas Phillips Jr., half-brothers James and Robert Hughes, and a half-sister Nancy Hughes Wells.
He was a baptized Christian.
There are no services planned. His final resting place will be chosen at a later date.
Unapproved Minutes of the Fort Scott City Commission on Feb. 4
CITY OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION MEETING
Minutes of February 4, 2025 Regular Meeting
A regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held at 6:00PM in the City Commission Meeting Room at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The meeting was streamed live on YouTube.
The meeting was called to order at 6:00PM (0:09). Roll call was taken. Commissioners Dyllon Olson, Matthew Wells, Tracy Dancer and Kathryn Salsbury were present with Mayor Tim Van Hoecke.
In Attendance – Brad Matkin/City Manager, Jason Dickman/City Engineer-Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc., Chief Jason Pickert/FSPD, Leroy Kruger/Codes Enforcement Technician, Jessica Oliphant/BakerTilly (via telephone), Lisa Dillon/Housing & Community Development Coordinator, Scott Flater/Water Utilities Director, Bill Lemke/Water Distribution & Collections Supervisor, Lisa Lewis/City Clerk, Steve Mason, Michael Hoyt, and Josh Jones.
- Farmer/City Attorney was absent.
VAN HOECKE led the Pledge of Allegiance and OLSON said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.
Approval of Agenda (1:28)
MOTION: WELLS moved to approve the Agenda as presented with the amendment of Item F/New Business worded 2024 Annual Report from the Land Bank. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Approval of Consent Agenda (2:08)
- Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1377-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of January 16, 2025 – January 29, 2025 – $548,345.32
- Approval of Minutes: January 21, 2025
- Request to Pay – Heck & Wicker – Payment No. 7 – $97,296.07
- Request to Pay – Invoice #17735 – Earles Engineering & Inspection, Inc. Project No. 24-414 – Horton & 6th Street Improvements – Payroll – $21,013.62
MOTION: OLSON moved to approve the Consent Agenda as presented. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0
Public Comments
Josh Jones (3:59) – addressed the Commission regarding contractor’s licenses specifically redundancy of existing regulations, potential administrative overload, limited effectiveness in ensuring quality of work and possible unintended consequences for contractors and new businesses.
Appearances (6:44) – None
Unfinished Business
Consideration of Change Order for Davis Lift Station (6:50) FLATER presented a request to approve the change order (original appearance for project November 12, 2024) for JCI to rebuild pumps and motors which will cost $22,444.00. Discussion was had on the necessity of modifications to existing specifications and about the lifespan of rebuilt equipment compared to new.
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve the change order according to the new findings for $22,444.00. OLSON seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Status of 118 E. Wall (14:16) – MATKIN gave a status update stating that FARMER’S office sent legal communication to the barber shop owner on 1/28/2025 regarding a release of liability (Montanez and Family assume all liability) and that the insurance company requires the “Red Tag” to be removed for the owner to obtain insurance. There is currently no insurance on the building. MATKIN reached out to the owner but has not been able to contact him.
Discussion was had about the conditions previously agreed upon for reopening the building.
Discussion was had about the adjoining building.
Discussion was had about an alternative course of action with the City going for quotes to repair it to structural engineer’s report. WELLS stated that the City has the right to do the repairs (when the owner refuses) to keep the structure from falling. WELLS’ intention is to move forward and pursue legal recourse with the options that have been presented by the City Attorney.
ACTION: MATKIN was directed to get (3) bids to repair the items necessary and will contact the insurance agent that contacted him regarding the building.
Status of 323 W. Wall (26:18) – WELLS met with the Land Bank, and they are excited about the opportunity to take this property along with others into the Land Bank before demolition is done. According to the Land Bank manager, the preferable way is to reach out to owners to see if they are willing to donate the property to the Land Bank before the City does the demolition. It could streamline the process of making it a viable property for contractors to come in and fix the properties instead of them being demolished.
WELLS stated he has not been able to contact the owner. The Land Bank Manager is reaching out as well.
Discussion was had on extending the timeline and tax grant rebate incentive.
KRUGER stated that the owner wishes to keep the property and is aware of the back taxes owed. The owner’s daughter has told him that they lack funds to save or demolish the home, but the owner will not agree to sell it. He also stated that this property has been on the radar (of the Codes Department and City Commission) for an extremely long time.
- Matkin left the meeting at (31:21.
Further discussion was had on the extended timeline for the unsafe building.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to press forward with the demolition of 323 W. Wall. DANCER seconded. DANCER and VAN HOECKE voted yes. SALSBURY, OLSON, WELLS voted no.
MOTION FAILED 2-3.
- Matkin left the meeting at (33:45.
MOTION: OLSON moved to table 323 W. Wall until the first meeting in March (March 4, 2025). WELLS seconded.
ACTION: WELLS will get permission from MATKIN to join KRUGER on a visit the owner of 323 W. Wall.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Discussion on the use of storage container boxes (35:20) WELLS stated this topic was introduced last year because of community interest in using containers for residential and commercial purposes. It remains an issue regarding using the boxes as storage on properties and the trending interest in using them to build modern homes.
Discussion was had about how other communities manage the issue, use in the historic district, and what our current Zoning Regulation states and how it would need to be rewritten. KRUGER stated that as is currently written, Codes cannot address the issue; a rewrite, as presented, would be required. He stated that he has not addressed it with any citizen despite claims.
ACTION: A Work Session is scheduled for February 24th, 2025, at 5:30PM.
New Business
Consideration of Letter of Interest submitted by Heather Madison for Land Bank Trustee due to the expired term of Bailey Lyons – February 2025 (53:28)
MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Heather Madison as a Land Bank Trustee. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
A brief discussion was had about David Beerbower/County Commissioner expressing interest in being the County Representative on the Land Bank. The current ordinance will need to be revised.
Presentation of 2024 Land Bank Annual Report – DILLION presented the report and answered Commissioners’ questions. The ending balance for 2024 reported as $71,560.00. Budget for the Land Bank in 2025 was reported by OLIPHANT AS $113,000.00 separate from the 2024 balance.
Discussion was had on the amount budgeted for 2025.
- Matkin left the meeting at (58:49).
- Matkin returned to the meeting at (59:28).
Discussion of Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) (59:30) DILLION presented an introduction of the program which is a collaborative program between the City of Fort Scott and Bourbon County. The primary goal is to encourage property owners to invest in the rehabilitation, conservation, and redevelopment of properties within designated areas by offering property tax rebates for quality improvements. They are broken down into (3) categories: residential, commercial, and historic. She explained the tax rebates, the application, and requirements.
Further discussion continued with the proposed changes to the program for developer incentives.
Consideration to begin Demolition Proceedings for 301 N. Jefferson, 501 Osbun, and 314 S. Scott – KRUGER presented an overview of conditions, owner contact history and answered questions for each of the (3) structures/properties. Codes determined these to be unsafe and dangerous and should be demolished. A Public Hearing is therefore set for March 18, 2025, with the passage of the resolutions.
MOTION: DANCER moved to approve Resolution No. 3-2025 – A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 301 N. JEFFERSON. VAN HOECKE seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve Resolution No. 4-2025 – A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 501 S. OSBUN. DANCER seconded.
VAN HOECKE, SALSBURY, OLSON and DANCER voted yes. WELLS voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: WELLS moved to approve Resolution No. 5-2025 – A RESOLUTION AND NOTICE OF HEARING WITH REFERENCE TO ALLEGED UNSAFE AND DANGEROUS STRUCTURE AT 314 S. SCOTT. OLSON seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration of Bids for Charles Street Lift Station (1:20:30) – DICKMAN presented the bid tabulation for the project that was opened on 1/23/2025. Three (3) bids were received and (1) bid was rejected. Earles Engineering & Inspections, Inc. recommended that the bidder Cardinal Siteworks, LLC – Pittsburg, KS – be awarded the bid.
MOTION: WELLS moved to award Cardinal Siteworks, LLC the project for the rebuild at the Charles Street Lift Station. SALSBURY seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
Consideration of Change Order No. 4 – Horton St. & 6th St. Improvements – Heck & Wicker – Corrective Action for Rejection of Defective Work (EEI: 22-049 & 24-414) – DICKMAN stated that this approval was to close out the rejected work on the overlay work with the previously discussed compromise with Heck & Wicker. They have left the site for the winter but will return on March 10, 2025, to perform corrective action on the overlay consisting of the diamond grinding and a fog seal. Heck & Wicker will profile the road before beginning the diamond grinding and after and then fog seal. All corrective work is at no cost to the City. The Change Order No. 4 official document reflects “No Charge” and an additional (6) more days to the total calendar days for completion to account for weather issues.
(1:24:31) WELLS stated for the record that there were over (178) defects noted in the profiling that was done and few of those were more than an inch, they did a (3) inch overlay which was in violation of the specs which means in certain sections of the road, after the grinding takes place, there will be (2) inches or less of material in the overlay that will be left the grinding. Because this fall well outside the specs, because the job was not done according to specs, where it was clearly laid out how it should have been done, in (2)-(1.5) inch lifts and instead was done in (1)-(3) inch lift, we will be left with a road, in certain instances, that will be less than (2) inches thick on the overlay, I am not okay with the corrective action that has been brought forth.
(1:25:40) DANCER and OLSON expressed their unhappiness which prompted further discussion.
(1:26:55) MATKIN requested an explanation of “tighter management” that was used during the discussion. DANCER replied and further discussion ensued over supervision of projects. DICKMAN provided an explanation of changes that will happen moving forward.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to approve Change Order No. 4 – Horton St. & 6th St. Improvements – Heck & Wicker – Corrective Action for Rejection of Defective Work for Earles Engineering.
ACTION: DANCER requested formal action, changing our position, and stipulating in black and white the relationship between the City and Earles Engineering.
DANCER seconded.
DANCER, VAN HOECKE, SALSBURY, and OLSON voted yes. WELLS voted no.
MOTION CARRIED 4-1.
MOTION: OLSON moved to amend the agenda to allow for an Executive Session. WELLS seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: OLSON moved that the City Commission recess into Executive Session for the purpose of discussion with an entity pursuant to the financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(4). The open meeting will resume in the Commission Room at 7:47PM. In the meeting will be the (5) City Commissioners and the City Manager. DANCER seconded.
MOTION CARRIED 5-0.
MOTION: VAN HOECKE moved to come out of Executive Session. DANCER seconded.
WELLS was absent for the vote.
MOTION CARRIED 4-0.
Reports and Comments
CITY ENGINEER DICKMAN (1:47:52) – No comments.
CITY MANAGER MATKIN (1:48:02)
– City/County Work Session
– Bettis replaced Harbour Construction to complete our Cape Seal project and will be back in May (possibly sooner) repair what has been done and complete the remainder.
- Wells returned to the meeting (1:48:18)
COMMISSIONER SALSBURY (1:50:25) – No comments.
COMMISSIONER WELLS (1:50:29)
– Clarification on the intent of the Business License during the Work Session of 1/28/2025
– Previous passage of Contractor’s License and Ordinance – possible Work Session,
– Bourbon County Community Theater Adult Prom event
– 1st Street Alley repair with established policy
– Thank you to the Commission for staying focused for the benefit of our citizens
COMMISSIONER OLSON (2:06:51)
– Business License intent from 1/28/2025 Work Session
COMMISSIONER DANCER (2:07:36)
– Apology to Commissioner Wells regarding Business License and Contractor License issues
– Thank you to City Employees, City Manager, and fellow Commissioners
– Proposed a future Work Session regarding Tourism and Retailer Event Coordination
COMMISSIONER/MAYOR VAN HOECKE (2:09:43)
– Business Licenses and Contractor Licenses comments
– Fence in front of Memorial Hall – MATKIN stated it was removed.
MOTION: DANCER moved to adjourn the meeting at 8:10PM (2:10:48). WELLS seconded.
FEBRUARY 4, 2025, MEETING ADJOURNED AT 8:10PM.
Submitted by Lisa A. Lewis, City Clerk
2024: The Beacon Year in Review
2024 was anything but ordinary for us here at The Beacon of Bourbon County. The Beacon celebrated its 40th year of serving Bourbon County and takes pride in reflecting on all the ways it has helped the residents of this amazing community. Not only does The Beacon provides food to those in need, but we are also the hub of several Bourbon County programs such as the family swim pass program hosted by Bourbon County Coalition and the Shoe Voucher program hosted by Community Christian Church where we distributed 173 vouchers to clients for their children going into school.
The Hack Foundation and Bourbon County Coalition provide funding to The Beacon to help Bourbon County residents in financial emergencies with utilities, rent, and a few select other necessities. This year we processed an abundance of financial applications totaling $26,033.02 helping 256 adults and 213 children.
As much of the country faced the rising costs of goods as did The Beacon not only did it cost us several thousands more to buy the same staples, we always have purchased we also saw a major increase in income-eligible families. In January this year we had 254 qualified families; in those families were 344 adults and 238 children. Looking into the systems we run at the end of December we had 497 qualified families totaling 704 adults and 470 children. As you see we had a major rise in families, 243 new families to be exact. Clients are allowed to pick up their food packages twice a month. Reflecting over the whole year we served 3,816 grocery orders providing food to 5,457 adults and 3,191 children.
We continue to be the recipient of Feeding America donations from our local Wal-Mart. Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday we receive a variety of goods including produce, meat, bakery items, and some miscellaneous salvaged items. We allow individuals to come in and shop through these items after 10:45 am on the delivery days.
The Beacon could absolutely not function on this level without the continued support from our community. From the numerous volunteers to the continuous donations from individuals, businesses, churches, groups, and civic organizations. In fear of leaving someone out, I cannot individually name all of them. Our deepest gratitude and appreciation extend out to all who make our mission of helping others a successful one.
Lastly, we would like to thank all those who adopted families, donated funds or toys, and helped support Bikes for Tykes. This year the Fort Scott Fire Department donated all monetary donations to The Beacon to help make sure every family signed up received gifts for their children. We recently ended another successful Adopt-A-Child program. Last year we helped 77 families, this year The Beacon and our amazing community brought the joy of Christmas into 113 Bourbon County homes, this includes 460 individuals. A big thank you to Community Christian Church for allowing us to use their building and resources to continue this mission. A big Thank You to the local Elks Lodge for distributing Holiday meal bundles to 127 families this year, this helped ensure 179 clients of The Beacon did not go without a Christmas dinner.
We look forward to another year of serving Bourbon County and its residents in their times of need. Thank you for making our mission possible!
David Gillen, Director
Ashley Heathman, Assistant Director
Destiny Holderfield, Food Administrator
Agenda for the USD234 Board of Education Meeting on Feb. 10
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
February 10, 2025 – 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA SUMMARY PUBLIC
1.0 Call Meeting to Order David Stewart, President
2.0 Flag Salute
3.0 Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
4.0 Appoint New Members (Action Item)
5.0 Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)
5.1 Board Minutes
a. 01-13-25
b. 01-20-25
5.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report
5.3 Check Register
5.4 Payroll – January 20, 2025 – $1,682,710.56
5.5 Activity Funds Accounts
5.6 USD 234 Gifts
5.7 UMB Credit Card Agreement
5.8 Zero Reasons Why Fundraising
6.0 Student Recognition
7.0 Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)
7.1 Superintendent’s Report
7.2 Assistant Superintendent’s Report
7.3 Special Education Director’s Report
7.4 Winfield Scott Presentation
8.0 Old Business
8.1 TowerPoint Acquisitions Letter of Intent to Purchase Interest in Wireless Site (Action)
8.2 10 Passenger Van Purchase (Action)
9.0 New Business
9.1 Eugene Ware Event Date Changes (Action)
10.0 Public Forum
11.0 Other Business – Time ____
11.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)
11.2 Exit Executive Session – _______ (Time)
11.3 Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)
12.0 Adjourn Meeting _____ (Time) David Stewart, President
Agenda of the Uniontown City Council on Feb. 11
The Uniontown City Council will meet on Feb. 11 at 7 p.m. in City Hall
Attachments:
0225 QB info items 0225 ADP info items
CALL TO ORDER AT ________ by _____________________________
ROLL CALL:
___ Jess Ervin ___ Amber Kelly ___ Mary Pemberton ___ Savannah Pritchett ___ Bradley Stewart
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Warehouse Electric bid opening –
402 Sherman bid opening –
Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing –
Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, HiAP –
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Sally Johnson – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
- Minutes of January 14, 2025 Regular Council Meeting
- December & January Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & February Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Clerk Report: Danea Esslinger
Jayhawk software & Quickbooks online
Trash complaint – 301 1st St #1
Rabies Clinic –
CCMFOA Conference – March 19-21, Manhattan
KACM Conference – March 27-28, Manhattan
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin –
Councilman Kelly –
Councilwoman Pemberton –
Councilwoman Pritchett –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
SEED Grant – need to do invitation for bid and start ordering other items.
Park electric –
NEW BUSINESS
ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved by ______________, 2nd ___________________, Approved ___________
Amended Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on Jan.14
The Regular Council Meeting on January 14, 2025 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, Savannah Pritchett, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Hannah Geneva, Michael Ramsey, City Treasurer Sally Johnson, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, and City Clerk Danea Esslinger.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Public Restroom toilets, Taylor Plumbing – not in attendance
SEK Multi-County Health Department, Hannah Geneva – Hannah stated that Bourbon County Health Department offers these health care options: physicals, family planning, WIC programs, TB testing, blood draws, and a Dr. does come one time every 3 months. She left flyers for anyone to pick-up here at City Hall.
CITIZENS REQUESTS
Michael Ramsey asked if the City of Uniontown has a Noise Ordinance. We do have a Nuisance Ordinance that touches on the noise ordinance. He is wanting to have one in place if appropriate about the Hwy 3 semi-truck braking coming down the Highway 3 hill. It was stated that where he is located at it will not be covered under the City of Uniontown. He states that he will investigate further with the State and the County. But informed this would have to be enforced by the County and the State as is a State highway.
FINANCIAL REPORT
Sally Johnson – Financial reports
Treasurer Johnson stated that she did not have any financial reports as gWorks is not working. She has 4 support tickets and an email to the owner of the company.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Amber, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to approve Consent Agenda:
- Minutes of December 11, 2024 Regular Council Meeting
- Treasurer’s Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
KRWA Conference on 3/25-27/2025- Superintendent wants to attend this conference.
Motion by Amber, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0 that the City Superintendent may go to the KRWA conference.
Clerk Report: Danea Esslinger
gWorks issues – Clerk Esslinger informed the council that gWorks is not working as promised. She asked the council if can waive the penalty for utility billings this month due to software issues. Council advised to contact the League of Kansas Municipality to see what they advise. Also contact our attorney to see if will issue a 10-day demand letter for software issue assistance, or we may contact other software vendors.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 4-0 to inform unpaid accounts of waiving of penalty due to software issues; penalty will be applied if not paid January 25th.
Website Hosting – Cost is going up more $2.50 more, and now is $22.24.
Allpaid – Cost is going up a minimum $3.99 fee for all debit and credit card transactions fee.
Rabies Clinic – Contact Dr. Lora Holeman to see if she will do a Rabies Clinic here on or around March 15 to 22.
SOS – Send Off Seniors asked the City of Uniontown for a donation. Clerk Esslinger advised that we have always given $100 dollars each year for the SOS.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Pritchett, Approved 4-0 to give the SOS $100 donation.
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin – absent
Councilman Kelly – City Superintendent did a good job snow plowing.
Councilwoman Pemberton – No
Councilwoman Pritchett – No
Councilman Stewart– No
Mayor Jurgensen – Mayor asked Superintendent Rich about the water alarm. Rich reported was having issues with the Scada antenna.
Mayor Jurgensen — Mayor also reminded Clerk Esslinger and Treasurer Johnson that the Clerk has not passed the 90-day probation period and to not have Clerk Esslinger sign any account payable checks yet.
OLD BUSINESS
Warehouse project –Mayor will get spec’s to the Clerk in order get electrical bids for this project. After that is completed, then will send out invitations to bid. State bids will be due on February 11 at noon to the City Hall.
SEED Grant – formally announce winners on January 17, if you want to know if we are awarded, be here at 10AM.
Park electric – Mayor is checking on more information for the South East Park Electricity.
NEW BUSINESS
Weed Barn – Mayor request to send an invitation to accept bids for the Weed Barn and submit to The Fort Scott Tribune. State to accept bids but must be clear that it is being sold as is condition, want closing cost to be split by both parties, and any or all bids may be accepted or rejected. State all bids will be due on February 11 at noon to the City Hall.
Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 4-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:445 PM.
Open meeting resumed at 8:43.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to amend the Employee Benefit Plan from the 2.0.0 to addition to the 2.2.0 and 2.3.0 to be combined together and labeled as only 2.2.0.
Moved by Stewart, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:45PM.
Perfect Timing by Patty LaRoche
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)
Theodore Roosevelt once said, “When you’re at the end of your rope, tie a knot and hold on.” If you’ve ever prayed for something and God appears unconcerned or absent, you’re in good company. Well, not good company because His faith-full children know that life is all about His timing, not theirs.
In the Zoom Bible study I attend, last week we discussed God’s timing by listening to a sermon by Pastor Craig Groeschel. He addressed three reasons why God was silent for 400 years between the writings of the Old and New Testaments.
(1). Learning was no longer done by a teacher speaking while students remained silent; rather, the Socratic method was introduced whereby students were allowed to participate and question.
(2). Rome developed roads and travel flourished.
(3). Alexander the Great conquered the world and Jewish people spread out.
According to Groeschel, all of that needed to happen to prepare for Jesus’ coming. God’s timing is perfect, even though it might not seem that way if we spend weeks/months/years praying for something and are hanging onto that knotted rope.
My son, Adam, recently recovered two Haitian orphans, a seven-year-old girl and a two-year-old boy, and delivered them to their adoptive, Canadian parents who met them at the airport in Miami, Florida. His safety and theirs depended on God’s timing.
A year ago, Adam’s sex-trafficking team rescued a missionary family in Haiti and returned them to the U.S. That family was contacted by two Canadian couples who had spent five years trying to adopt two Haitian orphans, and now that the papers were signed, it was too dangerous for the kids to get out of Port Au Prince. Did they know anyone who could help? The missionaries put them in contact with Adam. This time our son went alone.
A colleague Adam had met in Ukraine knew a helicopter pilot in Haiti who could help in the rescue. When travel to the U.S. was postponed (Flights to Port Au Prince had been suspended by all airlines due to violence in the country), an acquaintance of Adam’s knew a pastor who hid them until they could leave. Had Adam not met these people (God’s timing), this could have had a very different outcome.
Adam knew that God had orchestrated this rescue, so when he was grilled for hours at the Embassy, he did not fret. After all, here was a white, tattooed, bearded male, attempting to leave Haiti with two young black children, and even though he had all the legal paperwork, he looked suspicious. At the airport and on the plane, he felt the looks and heard the murmurs. (I’m sure I would have been one of those judging, except I, in my dramatic flair, probably would have made a scene and had him arrested.)
Psalm 18:30 (NIV) is a verse worth memorizing: As for God, His way is perfect: The Lord’s word is flawless; He shields all who take refuge in Him.
Adam will attest to that.