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KS Unemployment Insurance System Is Modernized

Kansas Department of Labor’s Modernized Unemployment Insurance System to Begin Sending out Benefit Overpayment Notices

~~ The modernized system improves operational efficiency and accuracy for unemployment insurance overpayment recoupment ~~ 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Labor (KDOL) announced that, as part of its modernization of the Unemployment Insurance (UI) system, it is sending 8,526 billing notices to those who received UI benefits overpayments.

Overpayment occurs when individuals receive more unemployment benefits than they are eligible to receive. Recipients receiving these notices have previously been notified of the overpayment through a manual process.

This update provides the agency with more accurate accounting, consistent billing, and reliable recovery. This work supports the long-term integrity of the unemployment trust fund and reflects responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources.

“Modernization of the state’s unemployment insurance system from the claimant- and agency-side of the portal has improved how the agency communicates and administers the program,” KDOL Secretary Amber Shultz said. “Addressing these balances is necessary to ensure fairness and maintain the stability of the program for Kansas workers and employers both now and in the future.”

Overpayments can happen for a variety of reasons, including changes in eligibility, reporting discrepancies, or claim adjustments. Many of these overpayments are tied to historic claims, including benefits issued during pandemic-era programs or due to limitations in the previous system.

Those who receive a UI overpayment notice have several options to resolve the issue.

Options include:

  • Paying the balance in full
  • Establishing a repayment plan
  • Requesting a waiver, if eligible

KDOL has updated its website and staff are prepared to assist claimants in understanding their options and navigating the process.

While further collection steps, including liens, are possible under current law, KDOL will provide advance communication and clear instructions before any such actions are taken.

For assistance with overpayments, contact KDOL at (785) 296-3609, visit dol.ks.gov/unemployment/overpayments, or email [email protected].

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CHC/SEK Names Infectious Disease Program Director

 

PITTSBURG, Kan.—The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) is pleased to announce the promotion of Taylor Panczer to Infectious Disease Program Director.

Panczer holds a Bachelor of Science in Health Science from Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania and a Master of Public Health with a concentration in Community Health Education from Montclair State University. She is also a Certified Health Education Specialist through the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing.

“Taylor’s compassion for others shines through in everything she does, and she brings a wealth of experience in health education, outreach, and advocacy,” said Lori Rexwinkle, RN, MSN, CHC/SEK Chief Operations Officer. “Her experience, combined with our providers’ expertise, is a great recipe for continued success in our Infectious Disease Program. I look forward to seeing the program grow so we can care for even more patients in our community.”

Panczer joined CHC/SEK in February 2021 as the Diabetes Program Manager and later served as the STI/HIV Outreach Coordinator. Most recently, she has served as the Wellness and Student Advocacy Services Coordinator through CHC/SEK’s partnership with Pittsburg State University (PSU). She will continue in this role alongside her new responsibilities, strengthening collaboration between both organizations, and expanding access to coordinated care for patients and students.

“CHC/SEK brings established, patient-centered workflows, and our campus clinic has built-in opportunities for infectious disease prevention education,” said Panczer. “Now, we have the opportunity to bring these strengths together into a unified program. I look forward to partnering with our highly skilled infectious disease team, local clinics, and health departments to improve the quality of life of our patients.”

As program director, Panczer will work closely with Julie Stewart, MD, Terra Livingston, APRN-C, and the infectious disease team to further develop patient programs. Stewart and Livingston are both Certified HIV Specialists™ through the American Academy of HIV Medicine.

In addition to providing HIV care, CHC/SEK offers comprehensive care for hepatitis, syphilis, and tuberculosis. “These diagnoses are often stigmatized, so compassionate care matters,” said Panczer. “We focus on the whole person, not just their diagnosis, ensuring patients feel respected and supported throughout their care.”

The team also provides service coordination, case management, educational outreach, and sexually transmitted infection testing. “Finances, transportation, and access to food and housing can all serve as barriers to receiving care. We coordinate these services to give patients the best chance of successful treatment,” Panczer said. “For example, if a patient lacks stable housing, it can be much harder for them to stay consistent with medications that require refrigeration.”

Panczer’s promotion supports CHC/SEK’s efforts to provide quality, affordable care to everyone. “Taylor is a great addition to our team, and her background and training are sure to open pathways for those who need them most,” said Julie Stewart, MD, CHC/SEK Physician. “We are excited to increase access for patients facing various medical issues from living with HIV to chronic pain to complex, chronic, multi-system conditions.”

For more information, visit chcsek.org.

 

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About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) serves as a healthcare hub for communities in Kansas and Oklahoma. CHC/SEK delivers quality, integrated care to nearly 90,000 patients each year with a goal of improving health, sustaining rural communities, and providing purpose-driven work to 950 staff members. Beyond healthcare, CHC/SEK finds innovative ways to improve lives by focusing on education, housing, and transportation. Regardless of income or insurance status, CHC/SEK ensures everyone receives the care they need. For more information, visit chcsek.org.

This email and any attachments may contain confidential information subject to protection under the Federal Standards for Privacy of Individually Identifiable Health Information (45 C.F.R. Parts 160 and 164). If you or your organization is a “Covered Entity” under the above mentioned regulations, you are obligated to treat such information in a manner consistent with the regulations. If it appears that this email was sent to you in error, (1) you are prohibited from utilizing or disseminating this email or any attachments; (2) please immediately delete it from your computer and any servers or other locations where it might be stored and (3) email [email protected] or call 620.231.9873 advising that you have done so. We appreciate your cooperation.

 

Chamber Coffee hosted by Fort Scott Public Library On April 23

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

Fort Scott Public Library

Thursday, April 23rd

 

8am

Fort Scott Public Library
201 S. National Ave.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to attend a Chamber Coffee on Thursday, April 23, at 8 a.m., hosted by the Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National. The coffee will take place downstairs in the events room. Please enter through the north entrance. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize.

This special gathering takes place during National Library Week (April 19–25, 2026), a nationwide celebration sponsored by the American Library Association that highlights the vital role libraries play in our communities. This year’s theme, “Find Your Joy,” encourages everyone to explore all the library has to offer.

The Fort Scott Public Library has proudly served the community since 1891, growing from its beginnings in Eugene Ware’s office into a cornerstone resource for Fort Scott and the surrounding area. Today, the library continues to evolve as a modern information hub, recently completing a new adult learning area while expanding spaces for children, teens, makers, and a “Library of Things.”

In addition to its updated spaces, the library offers a wide range of services including free digital platforms like Kanopy, Hoopla, Libby, and CloudLibrary, along with programs such as Story Time, Golden Aces, Book Clubs, and Summer Reading for all ages. Community members are encouraged to stop in, reconnect with the library, and explore everything it has to offer.

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

Click HERE to visit

Fort Scott Public Library

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit

Fort Scott Public Library

website!

Fort Scott Carnegie Library postcard, circa 1908.

Fort Scott Public Library, 2025

Historical Timeline:

  • 1883-The Library Association was founded in Fort Scott.
  • 1891- Eugene Ware established the Ware Public Library in Fort Scott. Mr. Ware uses the front of his law office as the library space. It was located at 113 Market Street, Fort Scott, where it stayed until the fall of 1892. The annual membership cost for the library was $4.
  • 1893- The Ware Public Library opens at the Redfield Building on Wall St.
  • 1894- Ware donated his library collection to the City of Fort Scott, and the citizens voted to establish a free Fort Scott Public Library to be maintained by the taxpayers. The new library board votes to stay in the Redfield building at a monthly rent of $25. Mary Barlow made the first librarian of the Fort Scott Public Library.
  • 1901- Andrew Carnegie donated $18,000 for the construction of a library building.
  • 1902- Fort Scott Public Library construction starts. The building is designed in the Second Renaissance Revival style.
  • 1904- The library is opened sometime in February.
  • 1911- Hitching posts removed from the front of the library.
  • 1918- The Library sent over 700 books, short stories, and boxes to the troops at the front during WWI.
  • 1923- Mary Barlow retires from the Fort Scott Library after 32 years. She had also been the librarian for the Ware Public Library.
  • 1936- A Children’s area was made in the library
  • 1942- The library donated 1,137 books to the Victory Book Campaign during WWII.
  • 1965- The library joins the Southeast Kansas Library System. This provides the library with access to interlibrary loans and rotating collections.
  • 1973- The library was deeded to the city of Fort Scott.
  • 1987- The library is placed on the National Register of Historic Places by the Kansas State Historical Society as a historic Carnegie Library.
  • 1990- The Library card catalog is put on a computer.
  • 2013- Fort Scott Public Library joined the SEKnFind consortium, a group of 52 Southeast Kansas libraries. This gives access to the catalogs and collections of all these libraries, expanding services to patrons.
  • 2014- Fort Scott Public Library joined the Sunflower/Libby eLibrary consortium, giving our patrons access to eBooks and audiobooks.
  • 2016- The library temporarily moved into the old City Hall offices in Memorial Hall, so that the library building could undergo a major renovation.
  • 2017- In April, the library reopened in the newly remodeled original Carnegie Building, giving longevity to the building, ensuring it will be there for future generations.
  • 2025- The library has a newly redesigned library website to serve our patrons better online. The library was also rearranged to accommodate new services and the relocation of the children’s room and computers.
A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

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

620-223-3566

fortscott.com

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U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt Newsletter

Rep. Derek Schmidt's header image

 

 

As we move beyond this year’s tax filing deadline, new data shows that millions of Americans are benefiting from President Trump’s tax relief measures.

 

According to the White House, more than 30 million senior citizens claimed a special deduction, averaging over $7,500 per household.

 

In total, over 53 million Americans (45% of all filers) have taken advantage of at least one of the new tax cuts introduced under Donald Trump. About six million filers used the “No Tax on Tips” provision, while more than 25 million claimed the “No Tax on Overtime” provision, averaging around $3,100 in deductions.

Did you benefit from the new tax deductions for seniors, tips or overtime?
Yes
No
Taking this survey will sign you up for future news and updates from our office.

Sincerely,

Rep. Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762

Kansans Encouraged to Contact 811 Before Digging  

 

Don’t Dig Until You Do This: The Essential Step for Safe Home Improvement Project

As the weather warms up, Kansans are eager to get started on their home improvement and gardening projects. But before the first shovel goes in the ground, there is an important step that every do-it-yourselfer must take.

Contact 811 or submit a request online through Kansas 811 at kansas811.com before you begin any excavation project. This free service is essential for projects big or small, from installing a mailbox to building a deck.

Why is this necessary?

You know your property, so why does someone else need to be contacted? Underground utilities, including natural gas lines, can vary in location and depth. Even if you think you know where those lines are, contacting 811 is an important first step to prevent damage and keep you and your community safe.

 

When you dig without contacting 811, you risk hitting a natural gas line, which can cause:

  • Injuries or death
  • Damage to underground lines
  • Service disruptions for you and your neighbors
  • Financial penalties
  • Costly delays to your project

 

By contacting 811 or submitting a request at kansas811.com, professional locators will mark all of the underground facilities within the designated project area with flags and/or paint at no cost to the home or business owner. Once the project is marked, be aware of the tolerance zone: a minimum of 24 inches. Hand or soft dig techniques should be used within this area.

 

Take the Safe Digging Pledge!

Kansas residents can prioritize safety by taking the 2026 Safe Digging Pledge at beadigherokansas.com and recognizing the importance of contacting 811 before their shovels or excavating equipment hits the ground, regardless of the size of the digging project. By pledging to always contact 811 before digging, participants will be entered for a chance to win an $811 gift card.

Contacting 811 before you dig is a simple step that helps keep projects on track and communities safe. Learn more about safe digging and take the pledge at beadigherokansas.com for your chance to win an $811 gift card.

Digital Toolkit:

Access b-roll, Safe Digging Month flyer and graphics here.

 

 

About Kansas Gas Service

 

Kansas Gas Service provides a reliable and affordable energy choice to more than 653,000 customers in Kansas and is the largest natural gas distributor in the state in terms of customers. Headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas Gas Service is a division of ONE Gas, Inc. (NYSE: OGS), a 100-percent regulated natural gas utility that trades on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol “OGS.” ONE Gas is included in the S&P MidCap 400 Index and is one of the largest natural gas utilities in the United States.

 

For more information and the latest news about Kansas Gas Service, visit kansasgasservice.com and follow our social channels: @KansasGas, Facebook, LinkedIn.

https://www.linkedin.com/company/kansas-gas-service

 

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KS Works To Improve High-Speed Internet Infrastructure

Office of Broadband Announces $16.3 Million in New Grant Funding

TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland today announced $16.3 million is available to improve broadband infrastructure through the Broadband Acceleration Grant (BAG) program. The program is designed to offset high costs that are required for building networks in places where distance and low population density make private investment difficult to attain.

“High-speed internet is an industry standard and should be available for use on a daily basis by individuals and businesses alike,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The BAG program supports the prosperous future we’re building for all Kansas residents which includes having reliable and affordable access to broadband infrastructure, regardless of zip code.”

In its sixth year, through the bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program (IKE), the Broadband Acceleration Grant program aims to provide high-quality, reliable broadband access throughout the state, prioritizing unserved areas, economically distressed communities and areas of compelling need.

“Broadband directly affects every industry and every person — and that’s why KDOT is an essential partner of this grant program and why we are committed to bringing broadband access to all of Kansas,” Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed said. “Working together, across agencies, we share the sentiment that this program is working to help our local leaders overcome challenges and make important infrastructure improvements that benefit communities and the state.”

Since the program was launched, Kansas has invested $31.3 million in broadband grants to communities and businesses across the state. Over the last five years, high-speed internet has been delivered to more than 12,000 homes and businesses in 37 counties. The effort leverages an additional $38 million in matching funds.

“The BAG program is more than just another grant opportunity — these grants are investments in people and places,” Director of Broadband Development Bill Abston said. “Strong infrastructure in Kansas — and specifically rural parts — help us remain a viable, competitive and connected place for new families and businesses — today and for future generations.”

The grant application period will begin at 3:00 p.m. Monday, April 27, and remain open until 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 12. To apply for the Broadband Acceleration Grant program, click here.

The Office of Broadband Development will host a kickoff webinar at 1:00 p.m. Monday, April 27. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Office of Broadband Development:

Established in 2020 by Governor Laura Kelly through Executive Order, the Kansas Office of Broadband Development (KOBD) is committed to ensuring all Kansans have the opportunity to live, work, learn and compete in a digital economy. KOBD accomplishes this by administering state and federal funding to support critical broadband infrastructure and expand access to high-speed internet. These efforts help enhance workforce readiness, education, digital opportunities and economic development across the state.

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.

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Obituary of Alma Marie Williams

 Alma Marie Williams, age 80, resident of Bronson, KS passed away Monday, April 20, 2026, at her home.  She was born October 1, 1945, in Houston, TX, the daughter of George and Nodie Bell Brantley Lindsey.  Following high school, she graduated from beauty school in Houston.  Alma used her talent as a hairdresser for many years.  In her spare time, she enjoyed fishing and spending time with her grandchildren.  Alma had a great taste for decorating and remodeling old furniture.  Her true gift was in giving.  No one ever wanted in her presence.

Survivors include a son, Christopher Lindsey, Sr., Iola, KS; a daughter, Anicia Robinson, Bronson, KS; bothers Irving McArthur, Conroe, TX, and Elder Henry Duskin, Mansura, LA; sisters Nodie Lindsey-Evans, Ennis, TX and Amminita Young, Kincaid, KS; 9 grandchildren; 9 great grandchildren; as well as numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her husband, Charles Williams; a brother, John Young; sisters Patricia Duskin, Annette Lindsey, and Pamla Grady; grandson Domonic Robinson; son-in-law Carl Robinson; as well as her parents.

Rev. George Proctor will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Saturday, April 25th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Cremation will follow.  The family will receive friends from 10:00 AM until service time Saturday at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to the Alma Williams Memorial Fund 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.

FSCC Trustees Press Releases for April 17, April 20 Meetings

April 17 Meeting

Members of the Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees met at 12:00 p.m. on Friday, April 17, 2026, for a board workshop at the Ellis Fine Arts Building.

Chair Doug Ropp called the meeting to order.

Emily Franks with Jarred, Gilmore and Phillips, PA, presented the 2024–2025 final audit.

Dr. Larry Guerrero, Vice President of Academic Affairs, reported that he had received word from the state that Certificate A and Certificate C have been accepted as presented.

President Dr. Jack Welch provided an update on the number of projected graduates for the current school year, along with an update on student headcount. He emphasized that when Fort Scott Community College grows, Fort Scott grows, and that the college serves as a driver of economic opportunity for the community.

Vanessa Poyner, Vice President of Student Affairs, shared information regarding the upcoming Outstanding Student Receptions held in conjunction with graduation. She also noted a new service award for faculty and staff who have made a significant impact on students, based on student feedback, to be presented at the end-of-year luncheon.

Athletic Director Dave Weimer invited the board to the upcoming golf tournament and noted that the Hall of Fame ceremony will be held on May 2.

Courtney Metcalf, Registrar, discussed graduation procedures for board members. As part of the board’s review of the April 20 consent agenda items, topics included board goals, updates on the FRAME grant, a proposed 4.5-day work week, board policies, a food service contract, tuition and fees, and a professional services agreement with USD 234. No action was taken.

Board members also participated in governance training related to KOMA and executive sessions to strengthen understanding and preparedness in those areas.

Chair Ropp adjourned the meeting at 1:41 p.m.

April 20 Meeting

Members of the Fort Scott Community College Board of Trustees met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, April 20, 2026, for their regular board meeting at the Ellis Fine Arts Building.

Chair Doug Ropp called the meeting to order.

The Board approved the official agenda with the removal of Item 8.5 Heavy Equipment Operator equipment purchases.

The Board approved the consent agenda as follows:

  • Board Minutes
    • March 12, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
    • March 13, 2026, Board of Trustees Meeting
    • April 06, 2026, Board of Trustees Special Meeting
  • Financials – Cash Flow Report
  • Check Register – $738,222.98
  • Payroll
    • March 13, 2026 – $731,953.65
    • April 15, 2026 – $707,707.76
  • Contract Ratification
    • Nevada Baseball Club, Inc.
    • Vector Solutions
    • STARS (finalized)

The Board approved the following items:

  • Board Goals
  • 2026–2027 food service contract with Great Western Dining
  • Tuition and Fees for the 2026–2027 academic year
  • Professional Services Agreement with USD 234
  • Personnel Report (as follows)

The Ag and President Ambassadors presented to the Board on their programs.  Track, Softball, Baseball coaches and their athletes were recognized for their programs.

Trustee Rhonda Bailey reported on Greenbush and shared information from the KACCT meeting.

Chair Ropp adjourned the meeting at 6:39 p.m.

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED EMPLOYMENT

APRIL 20, 2026

 

EMPLOYMENT

  • Lindsay Hill – Board Clerk, effective 05/01/26

 

RESIGNATION/RETIREMENT

  • Resignation – Seth Cross, HEP Grant, effective 04/17/2026
  • Resignation – Matt Glover, Men’s Basketball Coach, effective 05/15/26
  • Resignation – Chris Goddard, Band Faculty, effective 06/03/26
  • Resignation – Gina Shelton, Board Clerk, effective 04/30/26
  • Resignation – Devon Turner, Choir Faculty, effective 06/03/26
  • Retirement – Allen Twitchell, Theater Faculty, effective 05/31/26

 

NON-RENEWAL

  • Non-Renewal – Thomas Cunningham, Harley-Davidson Faculty, 2026-27

 

ADDITIONAL POSITIONS

  • Athletic Trainer Position
  • Performance Director Position