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Church news, Fort Scott

Pancake Feed, Auction and Bake Sale at First Southern Baptist Church Feb. 6

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JOIN US FOR OUR 3RD ANNUAL

ALL YOU CAN EAT PANCAKES (Regular & Gluten Free)

WITH A SERVING OF

GROUNDHOG FUNDRAISER,

SILENT AUCTION & BAKE SALE

Feb. 6, 2021, 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.

at First Southern Baptist Church

1818 South Main, Fort Scott, KS.

 

Children 7 and under FREE

8 to Adult $5.00 in advance

or

$6.00 at the door

purchase tickets at

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce or

Contact Ida Ford 417-262-3948 or

Terri Williams 620-215-3202

Vera Norris 620-215-2066

**All proceeds go to the building fund

 

Government, Kansas

Child Welfare Settlement Agreement

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Federal Judge Approves Child Welfare Settlement Agreement

DCF looks forward to implementation and continued improvement

TOPEKA – Kansas Department for Children and Families Secretary Laura Howard today applauded the approval of the settlement agreement in the matter of M.B. and S.E., through their next friend KATHARYN MCINTYRE, et al., v. LAURA HOWARD, et al.

“I want to thank Judge Crabtree and the plaintiffs for making this a collaborative process,” Howard said. “We’ve already begun the heavy lifting required of us to address the provisions laid out in the agreement, we know we have much work ahead of us to reinforce our commitment to Kansas children by building an effective child welfare system.”

The class action lawsuit was filed in 2018 by Kansas Appleseed, Lori Burns-Bucklew, Children’s Rights and the National Center for Youth Law against the Governor, DCF, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services and the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. The Governor was later dismissed from the case.

The agreement outlines three categories of requirements for DCF focused on placement stability and access to mental health services. Categories include accountability reporting and implementation, practice improvements and outcomes. See the full list of requirements.

“We know these outcomes are achievable because we’ve already seen the positive results of the hard work DCF employees have put into these requirements,” Howard said. “I believe we can meet the timelines set forward in the agreement and ensure that Kansas isn’t caught up in never ending litigation.”

As part of the settlement work, DCF has already organized a statewide placement stability workgroup of partners and providers to identify and implement improvements. In addition, the agency will soon award a contract for Kansas Family Crisis Response and Support will allow DCF to offer crisis intervention services across the state.

The agency also has increased supports to relative and foster caregivers and will soon issue an RFP for innovations to support placement stability practice improvements included in the settlement agreement.

With these efforts, the rate of moves for children in care has reduced over the past 12 months.

Howard isn’t satisfied.

“We’ve made significant progress in slowing the number of foster youth who run away or don’t have a placement and end up in offices thanks to our enhanced special response team and by building a new child protection framework through new practice models like Team Decision Making and Family Finding. I am committed to seeing this work through until the requirements are completed and being transparent about our progress along the way.”

Bourbon County, Fort Scott, Health Care

Buck Run Stream Advisory Rescinded

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Stream Advisory Rescinded for Buck Run Creek, located East of Scott Avenue and West of 69 Highway in Fort Scott, Kansas

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded the stream advisory for the Buck Run Creek, along the area East of Scott Avenue and West of 69 Highway in Fort Scott, Kansas. Water samples show no health risk associated with the creek. Water contact in the river is now deemed safe.

COVID-19, Government

Farm Loans Debt Collections Suspended

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USDA Temporarily Suspends Debt Collections, Foreclosures and Other Activities on Farm Loans for Several Thousand Distressed Borrowers Due to Coronavirus

 

Manhattan, Kansas, Jan. 27, 2021 – Due to the national public health emergency caused by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), the U.S. Department of Agriculture today announced the temporary suspension of past-due debt collections and foreclosures for distressed borrowers under the Farm Storage Facility Loan and the Direct Farm Loan programs administered by the Farm Service Agency (FSA). USDA will temporarily suspend non-judicial foreclosures, debt offsets or wage garnishments, and referring foreclosures to the Department of Justice. USDA will work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to stop judicial foreclosures and evictions on accounts that were previously referred to the Department of Justice. Additionally, USDA has extended deadlines for producers to respond to loan servicing actions, including loan deferral consideration for financially distressed and delinquent borrowers. In addition, for the Guaranteed Loan program, flexibilities have been made available to lenders to assist in servicing their customers.

 

Today’s announcement by USDA expands previous actions undertaken by the Department to lessen financial hardship. According to USDA data, more than 12,000 borrowers—approximately 10% of all borrowers—are eligible for the relief announced today. Overall, FSA lends to more than 129,000 farmers, ranchers and producers.

 

“USDA and the Biden Administration are committed to bringing relief and support to farmers, ranchers and producers of all backgrounds and financial status, including by ensuring producers have access to temporary debt relief,” said Robert Bonnie, Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Secretary. “Not only is USDA suspending the pipeline of adverse actions that can lead to foreclosure and debt collection, we are also working with the Departments of Justice and Treasury to suspend any actions already referred to the applicable Agency. Additionally, we are evaluating ways to improve and address farm related debt with the intent to keep farmers on their farms earning living expenses, providing for emergency needs, and maintaining cash flow.”

 

The temporary suspension is in place until further notice and is expected to continue while the national COVID-19 disaster declaration is in place.

 

USDA’s Farm Service Agency provides several different loans for producers, which fall under two main categories:

 

  • Guaranteed loans are made and serviced by commercial lenders, such as banks, the Farm Credit System, credit unions and other non-traditional lenders. FSA guarantees the lender’s loan against loss, up to 95%.
  • Direct loans are made and serviced by FSA using funds from the federal government.

 

The most common loan types are Farm Ownership, Farm Operating and Farm Storage Facility Loans, with Microloans for each:

 

  • Farm Ownership: Helps producers purchase or enlarge a farm or ranch, construct a new or improve an existing farm or ranch building, pay closing costs and pay for soil and water conservation and protection.
  • Farm Operating: Helps producers purchase livestock and equipment and pay for minor real estate repairs and annual operating expenses.
  • Farm Storage Facility Loans are made directly to producers for the construction of cold or dry storage and includes handling equipment and mobile storage such as refrigerated trucks.
  • Microloans: Direct Farm Ownership, Operating Loans and Farm Storage Facility Loans have a shortened application process and reduced paperwork designed to meet the needs of smaller, non-traditional and niche-type operations.

 

Contact FSA

FSA encourages producers to contact their county office to discuss these programs and temporary changes to farm loan deadlines and the loan servicing options available. For Service Center contact information, visit farmers.gov/coronavirus. For servicing information, access farmers.gov.

 

 

 

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender

 

Area News, Health Care

Nevada Hospital Receives First COVID 19 Vaccines For Phase 1B

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NRMC to Host Phase 1B Vaccine Clinics

Nevada Regional Medical Center (NRMC) has received their first shipment of COVID-19 vaccines for Phase 1B. Only individuals registered through waiting lists will be notified and scheduled for one of two upcoming mass vaccination clinics that will provide more than 500 individuals with their first dose of a two-part Moderna vaccine. Second doses will be given at follow-up clinics four weeks after the initial clinics. It is important to note that COVID-19 vaccination may only be done by appointment and walk-ins are not accepted.

As supplies continue to come in, NRMC will continue to reach out to those who have requested a vaccination. Anyone who believes they fall into one of the tiers in Phase 1B and wishes to be notified when an appointment for vaccination is available may call NRMC’s vaccine call center at (417) 448-2120 or visit the hospital’s website at www.nrmchealth.com to register online.

The vaccine call center is open 24/7 and staffed by live receptionists. In the interest of making scheduling as efficient as possible, NRMC requests that individuals register for the notification list only once as multiple requests are unnecessary and not helpful.

So who exactly is eligible right now? Here’s the breakdown:

Phase 1B – Tier 1: Protecting those who keep us safe and help during emergencies

• First Responders

• Non-Patient Facing Public Health Infrastructure

• Emergency Management and Public Works

• Emergency Services Sector

Phase 1B – Tier 2: Protecting those who are at increased risk for severe illness

• Anyone aged 65 and older

• Any adult with one or more of the following conditions: Cancer, Chronic Kidney Disease, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), Intellectual and/or developmental disabilities such as Down Syndrome, Heart Conditions (such as heart failure, coronary artery disease, or cardiomyopathies), Immunocompromised state from a solid organ transplant, Severe Obesity (BMI greater than 40), Pregnancy, Sickle Cell Disease, Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

“Getting a vaccine to everyone that wants one is not going to be a fast process,” said NRMC Chief Executive Officer Steve Branstetter. “However, we are dedicated to not wasting any vaccine that we receive and ensuring the most efficient and safe vaccination process that we can for our community. We are as anxious as everyone else to start a new chapter in this story, where we defeat our antagonist, the virus.”

NRMC reminds readers to frequently check local media and the hospital’s Facebook page for updates on COVID-19 vaccines.

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About Nevada Regional Medical Center
Serving a six-county area since 1937, Nevada Regional Medical Center is a 71-bed acute, intensive and skilled care hospital. Nevada Regional Medical Center has earned recognition as a respected regional medical center for its comprehensive health care services, skilled and caring employees and state-of-the-art medical technology. Staff represent more than a dozen medical specialties, including family practice, women’s services, neurology, urology, psychiatry, orthopedics, wound care services, and general, vascular, thoracic and oncological surgery. Additionally, consultation clinics are held regularly by specialists in oncology, pulmonology, podiatry, ear, nose, and throat and cardiology.

Obituary

Funeral Service for Joyce Wilkins

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Joyce Elaine Wilkins, age 72, a resident of Bronson, Kansas, passed away December 18, 2020, at the Research Medical Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

 

Pastor Michael Miller will conduct a memorial service at 1:00 P.M. Wednesday, February 3rd at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Private burial will take place in the U. S. National Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’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.

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee at 306 E. 23rd on January 28

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Join us for our weekly Chamber Coffee hosted by
Stutesman’s Action Realty
NOTE THE LOCATION
will be @ one of their commercial listings:
306 E. 23rd St.
Thursday, January 28th, 8 am
Masks are strongly encouraged and masks will be available for those without one.
Click HEREfor their website.
Click HEREfor their Facebook page.
Jennifer Yarsulik, Broker/Owner of Stutesman’s Action Realty, founded the business in 1992. Stutesman’s Action Realty was established on honesty, professionalism, treating all people fairly, and providing the absolute best service in the area.
Chamber Members & Guests are welcome
to make any announcement for $1 to the Chamber about their business or organization including events, new products, promotions, or any other specials!
Call the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce 620.223.3566
Upcoming Chamber Coffee Schedule
  • February 4th “OPEN” Call the Chamber to schedule
  • February 11th hosted by Sunshine Boutique
  • February 18th “OPEN” Call the Chamber to schedule
  • February 25th hosted by Ascension Via Christi ER Dept. celebrating 2nd yr in FS, Drive-Thru Chamber Coffee
  • March 4th “OPEN” Call the Chamber to schedule
  • March 11th “OPEN” Call the Chamber to schedule
  • March 18th hosted by Briggs Auto of FS – Celebrating Birthday week Anniversary (6 years)
  • March 25th hosted by NRMC – location TBA
Bourbon County, Schools, Sports

UHS BASKETBALL GAME 10 RESULTS vs. Jayhawk-Linn

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Adelay Martin. Submitted photo.

The Uniontown Eagles played the Jayhawk-Linn Jayhawks on Tuesday, January 26. Both of the Lady Eagle teams were victorious, and so were the boys’ teams.

The Lady Eagles Varsity team beat the Jayhawks 55-36. Danielle Howard led with 22 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals. Karleigh Schoenberger scored 19 points and had 5 boards. Sammie Hampton scored 10 points and also had 5 rebounds, as well as 4 steals. Freshman Rylee Coulter had 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and 4 steals.

“We played well in the first half of our Varsity matchup, outscoring Jayhawk-Linn 29-12,” said Coach Miller. “We came out flat in the second half, but finished the game strong scoring 20 points in the final quarter to seal the win. We will enjoy the win for the evening, but we will get back to work tomorrow to prepare for a home matchup against Chetopa on Friday night.”

Of the JV game, Coach said, “Our Junior Varsity girls came out hungry tonight. Their dominating performance earned them a win, increasing their record to 2-0 in the league.” Some notable statistics of the game include Rylee Coulter’s and Brooklynn Dreisbach’s 6 rebounds and 5 steals each, Addysin Hall’s 4 steals, and Camryn Davis’ 5 rebounds.

The Varsity boys defeated the Jayhawks 58-44. Clay Sutterby and Cade Goodridge led the team in points, scoring 13 and 12 respectively. Sutterby also had 11 rebounds and 2 steals, and Goodridge was 2/3 from the free throw line. Jake Harvey scored 10 points and had 11 boards, 4 assists, and 3 steals. Dawson Dreisbach had 8 points and 3 blocks.

Coach Hays said, “We didn’t play our best game tonight. We turned the ball over and weren’t able to convert easy shots into points. I was really encouraged by our bench play. I thought Cade Goodridge and Drew Holt came in during the first half and gave us some really good minutes. Without those guys stepping up, it’s a totally different ballgame. We have plenty to work on in practice before Friday, but I know we will get some things fixed and be ready for Friday against Chetopa.”

-Adelay Martin, UHS Sports Media Reporter

Government, Kansas

Kansas Flags At Half-Staff to Honor Police Chief

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Governor Laura Kelly Directs Flags be Flown at Half-staff in Honor of Leon Police Chief Jerry Farthing

TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed that flags be lowered to half-staff in the City of Leon, Kansas, on Friday, January 29, until sunset in honor of Leon Police Chief Jerry Farthing.

“Chief Jerry Farthing served the people of Leon and Butler County well both as the leader of the Leon Police Department and as a volunteer firefighter in Cassoday,” Governor Kelly said. “He was a dedicated public servant and deeply involved in his community. I offer my condolences to Chief Farthing’s friends and family, and the Leon community, during this difficult time. He will be missed.”

To receive email alerts when the governor orders flags to half-staff, please visit: https://governor.kansas.gov/newsroom/kansas-flag-honor

Fort Scott, K-State Extension

Starlite FCE Minutes of Jan. 21

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The January meeting of Starlite FCE was held on January 21st at the Yeager building at the Fairgrounds.  President Glenda Miller called the meeting to order and Joyce Allen led the members in reciting the Pledge of Allegiance and the Club Collect.  Eleven members and one guest were in attendance.  The members reported seven hours of volunteer work and that they had recycled three hundred and eighty pounds of paper.  The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved.

 

Doris Ericson presented the Treasurer’ report and reminded us to bring in our Best Choice labels.   Glenda Miller reported that the County Council had cancelled the Spring Tea for this year due to Covid.  She also went over the information presented in the FCE newsletter.

 

Old business consisted of the Valentines for the Tri-Valley clients.  Cards were signed by members and placed in treat bags.  Letha Johnson moved that the person in charge of event be given authority to purchase items for said event and receive reimbursement out of the club account.  Del Parks seconded the motion, motion carried.

 

It was announced that Lois Williams a longtime previous member had passed as well as Del Parks brother.  Megan Brillhart announced that Presbyterian Village residents have received their first round of Covid shots and that they should be able to start getting out in about six weeks.

 

Glenda Miller presented members with unity valentines and a trivia quiz on Kansas in celebration of Kansas Day January 29th.

 

Joy Miller presented the lesson to the club of “Taking a new look at Fermented Foods.”  Fermented foods include sauerkraut, wine, kimchi, sour dough bread and yogurt, to name a few.  Joy also passed out troubleshooting guide on fermentation, Information about the upcoming Aging with Attitude Regional expo and Dining with Diabetes online classes.

 

Deb Lust moved that the meeting be adjourned, Jackie Warren seconded the motion, meeting adjourned.  After the meeting the members enjoyed cupcakes, cookies, M&M and water provided by Jackie Warren and Deb Woods.

 

Prepared by

Terri Williams

Bourbon County Local News