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Sunflower Tourism Awards Wins National Award

Kansas Tourism Wins Second National Award for Sunflower Summer Program

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced that Kansas Tourism has earned the Gold Award in the State Bridging Communities category for the popular Sunflower Summer program. Announced at the 2025 Educational Seminar for Tourism Organization (ESTO) Conference, ESTO awards recognize state and territory tourism offices for standout initiatives that strengthen communities and inspire travel.

“The Sunflower Summer program has been a shining example of how Kansas is investing in families, education and community connections,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “By opening the doors to cultural, history and recreational experiences, we’re not only building memories – we’re strengthening our local economies by driving more visitation to the many unique attractions that Kansas has to offer.”

The Bridging Communities category honors campaigns that foster meaningful connections across diverse populations and regions by bringing bold ideas, data-driven creativity and deep community impact.

The award, presented by the U.S. Travel Association, was announced during the annual ESTO Conference held August 17-19 in Phoenix.

“This award underscores our goal to grow the tourism industry by connecting Kansas families with our state’s cultural and educational treasures found in their own backyard,” Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. “Sunflower Summer sparks new journeys, fosters state pride, and fuels the entire tourism economy.”

This recognition builds on previous honors given to the Sunflower Summer program, including Best Local Impact Campaign at the 2025 Etsy Awards, where Kansas Tourism was recognized for its efforts during the eTourism Summit in April.

The 2024 Sunflower Summer program delivered remarkable results, with more than 705,000 Kansas residents visiting the 223 participating attractions.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce: 

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About Kansas Tourism:

The mission of Kansas Tourism is to inspire travel to and throughout Kansas to maximize the positive impacts that tourism has on our state and local communities. Kansas Tourism works hand in hand with other Commerce community programs to elevate and promote Kansas as a tourist destination. Kansas Tourism oversees all tourism marketing and PR for the state, produces travel publications and advertising, manages state Travel Information Centers, manages both the Kansas By-ways program and the Kansas Agritourism program, approves tourist signage applications, produces the KANSAS! Magazine, and provides financial and educational support to the tourism industry in Kansas through grants, education and support.

About ESTO & U.S. Travel Association:

The U.S. Travel Association’s ESTO is the tourism industry’s premiere conference, delivering innovative strategies and trend-driven sessions for destination marketing professionals. The ESTO State Awards, formerly known as the Mercury Awards, celebrates excellence in state-level tourism initiatives.

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Maps Of Fort Scott Town-Wide Garage Sale Today and Tomorrow

FORT SCOTT’S

FALL TOWN-WIDE

GARAGE SALE

SEPTEMBER 19th & 20th

We are absolutely thrilled to announce the Town‑Wide Fall Garage Sale in Fort Scott on September 19 & 20, 2025!

This is going to be a fantastic weekend filled with treasure hunting, great deals, and community spirit.

Here’s everything you need to know:

📅When

  • Dates: September 19 & 20, 2025

📍Where

  • Across Fort Scott — north, south, downtown and beyond! All the registered sale locations are mapped out for you.

🗺️Plan Your Route

  • Use our interactive map to see every yard and garage that’s part of the sale.
  • Click HERE to view the Google interactive map!

📍Physical maps may be picked up at:

  • Chamber of Commerce
  • 5 Corners Mini Mart
  • Pete’s Gas Station locations

Wall St. | 6th & National Ave. | Main St. (across from Briggs)

  • Casey’s Gas Station
  • Bids & Dibs
  • Don’s Smoke Shop

A HUGE thank you to everyone who signed up and joined the Fall Town-Wide Garage Sale.

Your enthusiasm and participation made it a great success!

Stay tuned for the next one!

CLICK HERE TO FOLLOW THE

FACEBOOK EVENT PAGE

CLICK HERE FOR A PRINTABLE

COPY OF THE MAP

SCAN THE QR CODE FOR THE GOOGLE MAP

OF SALES!

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below…

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

Obituary for Michael Morris “Mick” Bradbury

 

Michael Morris “Mick” Bradbury, a cherished husband, father, and friend, passed away on Wednesday, September 17, 2025, at the age of 82. Born in the family home north of Uniontown, Kansas, near the Dry Ridge area on December 1, 1942, Mick’s roots ran deep into the country soil. His early years were marked by the simplicity and richness of rural life, and he carried those values with him throughout his life.

Mick was a proud graduate of Uniontown High School, where he was a member of the football team. His love for sports was a thread that ran throughout his life, as he later enjoyed playing slow pitch softball and basketball on the Hammond Community Team.

For thirty-two years, Mick dedicated his career to Hammond Seed and Elevator, where his diligent work ethic and integrity were well known. Simultaneously, he managed his own farm and cattle operation, a testament to his tireless work ethic and love for the land. Even after his retirement, Mick’s days were filled with the responsibilities of tending to his farm, ensuring that everything was run with precision—a “tight ship,” as many would say. His pride in his work was evident in the meticulous care he took of his yard, trees, and garage.

A man of faith, Mick was a devoted member of the Rinehart Christian Church, where his Christian beliefs shaped his actions and interactions with others. He was known for his willingness to lend a hand to his neighbors, embodying the spirit of community and service.

Mick’s interests were as varied as they were passionate. In his earlier years, he enjoyed the thrill of bird hunting and the companionship of his horse, Buck. Fishing and golfing provided him with a sense of peace and a chance to connect with nature. His love for sports persisted as he became an avid fan of the Kansas City Chiefs, rarely missing a game.

His joy for life extended to his cherished “toys,” his tractors, and farm equipment, which he operated with the same joy a child has with their favorite playthings. These tools of his trade were also his hobbies, and he spent many happy hours on them.

Mick’s legacy is carried on by his loving wife, Wilma; his devoted daughters, Debbie Nafzger (Jerry) and Buffie Eskridge (Elvis); his six grandchildren, Jace Wright, Mackenzie Salgado (Rick), Shelby Shaw (Kenny), Madison Wright (Mark), Bryce Wright (Shelby aka “Red”),and Katalaya Eskridge and his ten great-grandchildren, Mahayla, Laiken, Logan, Harlow, Hollyn, Ellison, Eli, Everly, Emrie, and Escher. Also surviving are his three brothers, Bill Bradbury (Carole), Tom Bradbury (Myrna) and Max Bradbury (Betty) and his sister, Margaret Epp (Glendon) as well as the countless lives he touched with his generosity, humor, and indomitable spirit. His passing leaves a void in the hearts of all who knew him, but his memory will continue to inspire and guide us.

In his life, Mick Bradbury was a man who loved deeply, worked hard, and gave generously. His story is one of a life well-lived, marked by the values of family, faith, and community. As we say farewell to this remarkable man, we celebrate the enduring impact he has made on all of us. Mick’s journey on this earth may have come to an end, but his spirit lives on.

Rev. Kevin Moyers will conduct funeral services at 11:00 A.M. Tuesday, September 23rd at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Uniontown Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Tuesday at 10:00 A.M. prior to the service. 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 of Gary Paul Kraft

Gary Paul Kraft, affectionately known as Gary to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on September 14, 2025, at the age of 82 in Kansas City, Kansas. Born on May 22, 1943, in Pasadena, California, Gary was a beacon of light in the lives of all who knew him. He leaves behind a legacy of love, kindness, and selfless service that will be cherished and remembered by many.

Gary is survived by his loving wife, Sally “Micki” Harper Kraft, and their wonderful family: sons Robert, Ronald, Dennis, and Stephen Williams; daughters Suzanne Dixon, Denise Kase, and Colleen Sheehey; brother Rodney Kraft; sister Donna Bockman; and the late Stanley Kraft, his cherished brother. Gary was a proud patriarch, adored by his 18 grandchildren, 16 great-grandchildren, and one great-great-granddaughter. He was preceded in death by his father, Alfred Kraft, and mother, June Kraft, who instilled in him the values of compassion and community that he carried throughout his life.

Gary served his country with honor as a proud veteran of the United States Navy. After his military service, he worked for the city of New Port Beach, CA. as well as with his Dad as a Tree Trimmer. Upon moving to Fort Scott he worked as a greeter at Wal-Mart, where his friendly smile and thoughtful nature made him a beloved figure in the community.

As we bid farewell to Gary, we celebrate a life well-lived and a man well-loved. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire us, and his memory will live on as a blessing to us all.

There was cremation. Graveside services will be held Tuesday, September 23, 2025, at the Fort Scott National Cemetery.. In lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the American Legion or St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital 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 of Sharon Button

Sharon Kay Button, age 70, resident of Fort Scott, KS passed away Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at her home. She was born on March 22, 1955, in Tulsa, OK, the daughter of Lloyd and Barbara Ivey.

Sharon graduated from Fort Scott High School. She worked for two different Insurance Companies as well as USD234. She loved spending time with family, especially the grandchildren and their activities. Sharon attended Community Christian Church and lived out her Christian faith.

Survivors include her children Kelley Tucker and husband Darren, Kimberly Graham-Coon and husband Robert, Kristy Sickles and husband Jeremiah, Scotty Button and wife Samantha, and Kaylee Button; grandchildren Garrison, Nathan, Jenna, Ashlyn, Addisyn, Brock, Dana, Delci, Delaney, Keith, Brooklyn, Allie, Lily, Cooper, and Lillian; and a brother, John Ivey and wife Teresa. She was preceded in death by her parents, brothers Lloyd, Jr. and Randy Ivey, and grandchildren Karissa, Benjamin, and other heavenly grandbabies.

Rev. Kevin Moyers will conduct funeral services at 1:00 PM Friday, September 19th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Kitchen C+C Hosts Chamber Coffee on Sept. 18

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

The Kitchen

Collective + Collaborative

Thursday, September 18th

8am

12 S. Main St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to this week’s Chamber Coffee, hosted by The Kitchen Collective + Collaborative (The Kitchen C+C). 12 S. Main St., on Thursday, September 18th, at 8am. Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

The Kitchen C+C is celebrating its one-year anniversary as a fully licensed food incubator, retail kitchenware store, grab-and-go meal and sweets provider, and event space in downtown Fort Scott. Over the past year, it has become a hub for local food entrepreneurs, community events, and culinary creativity.

This past April, co-founders Rachel French, Bailey Lyons, and Angela Simon were recognized with the Community Spirit Award at the Chamber Annual Dinner, honoring their passion and dedication to initiatives to better Fort Scott and the downtown area.

Located in historic McDonald Hall,

The Kitchen C+C offers a shared commercial kitchen/incubator for personal, group, or resale food preparation; retail kitchenware; grab-and-go meals; event and class space; and community-focused programming.

For more information, contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Click HERE to visit the

The Kitchen Collective + Collaborative Facebook Page!

Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com

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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US

KDOC Implements Grants for Juveniles in Detention~

Kansas Department of Corrections Announces Implementation of Grants Expanding Behavioral Health Services for Juveniles in Detention

WICHITA, Kansas. – The Kansas Department of Corrections (KDOC) today announced the successful implementation of over $1.4 million in grant funding, which has enabled juvenile detention centers across the state to provide vital mental health and substance use services to young people. The grants, established through the 2023 passage of House Bill 2021, address the significant behavioral health needs of juveniles and connect families to crucial support services sooner.

“This funding is a game-changer for our ability to effectively help Kansas youth in the justice system,” said Megan Milner, KDOC Deputy Secretary. “By identifying and addressing mental health and substance use needs early, we are providing a pathway for young people to receive the support they need to avoid future system involvement. For many detention centers, this is the first time they have had the capacity to offer these essential services”.

This grant program utilizes the state’s Evidence-Based Programs fund to improve services in Kansas’ nine locally operated juvenile detention centers. Assessments conducted since the grants were implemented in 2023 have revealed a critical need: over 80% of youth admitted to a detention center have mental health or substance use disorders. The grants are directly addressing this by funding timely assessments, case management, and behavioral health services.

“These grants provide crucial funding to address the needs that may be influencing a youth’s behavior in the community, thus resulting in them coming to the attention of the justice system. By getting them connected to services as early as possible, we can provide a structure of support for the youth and their family to hopefully change their trajectory in the juvenile justice system”, said Steve Stonehouse, Sedgwick County Director of Corrections.

The KDOC is responsible for the adult and juvenile correctional systems in the state, ensuring a safe and secure environment while providing opportunities for offenders to become productive members of society upon release.

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2025 LMC National Discovery Award Winners Announced!

September 16, 2025

Vol. 9

Students Share Unsung Heroes with the World:

2025 Discovery Award Winners

2025 National Discovery Award Winners Announced! 🏆🎉

We are proud to introduce this year’s outstanding student winners, whose projects honor Unsung Heroes with remarkable creativity, research, and passion.

The award-winning documentaries, performances, and websites highlight the courage, innovation, and impact of newly discovered Unsung Heroes whose legacy continues to inspire change today.

Discover the full list of winners and celebrate the stories—and students—that are making history come alive.

🎉 Congratulations to our

2025 Discovery Award Grand Prize Winners! 🎉

Jay Patel and Rayan Hasan of Jericho High School in New York were surprised with the announcement that their documentary, The Unsung Hero of Industrial Health: Alice Hamilton’s Responsibility in Shaping Industrial Health Policies, earned the $6,000 Grand Prize.

LMC CEO Norm Conard presented the award in front of classmates, family, school and district officials, and their supervising teacher, Dr. Brian Dussel.

Their compelling project brings to life the story of physician and researcher Alice Hamilton, whose groundbreaking investigations into workplace hazards shaped policies that protected workers nationwide.

👏 Join us in celebrating Jay and Rayan’s incredible achievement!

👀 Watch for Our Next Newsletter

There’s more to come! In upcoming editions, we’ll take you behind the scenes with interviews from the Discovery Award–winning students, offering a closer look at their research journeys and creative process. You’ll also learn more about the Unsung Heroes they uncovered—extraordinary individuals whose courage and impact continue to shape our world today.

Be sure to keep an eye on your inbox for these inspiring stories and student spotlights!

Megan Felt was a student in Norm Conard’s class and is one of the founders of the Life in a Jar project that began in 1999, which discovered Irena Sendler. Megan was named a National Coca-Cola All-American Scholar for her community service. She was also selected to the 2nd team USA Today All-American Academic Team for 2003. She graduated from Pittsburg State University in Pittsburg, Kansas, with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Management, and earned her Master’s in Educational Leadership. About the development of the Life in a Jar project, Megan says, “During my freshman year in high school, we discovered the story of an amazing woman named Irena Sendler, and our research began. We thought the Irena Sendler Project would end after the National History Day competition, but to our surprise, the project had taken a life of its own. The first time I met Irena, I was amazed by her wisdom and grace. Her courage and love could tear down any barrier. She challenged us to continue her story and inspire others. This is a tremendous task we will all try to achieve for the rest of our lives.” As Program Director, Megan works with teachers and students all over the world, developing projects.

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