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All posts by Submitted Story
Governor Kelly’s Accomplishments 2020
Year in Review: Despite Pandemic, Kelly Administration Reaches Historic Accomplishments
~Kansas breaks record for new capital investment in 2020~
TOPEKA – As 2020 ends, the Kelly Administration highlights progress made in Kansas despite unprecedented challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“As we enter 2021, it’s important that we do not let the events of the last year be exclusively defined by hardship,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Due to good public policymaking and fiscally responsible decisions my administration has made from day one, our state has been able to weather the worst of COVID and protect the foundation that will keep Kansas on the path forward.”
Today, Governor Laura Kelly announced 2020 is officially the most successful year for new capital investment in the State of Kansas since the creation of the Kansas Department of Commerce.
As of this week, in 2020 alone, Governor Kelly’s administration has:
- closed 131 projects in 2020, worth more than $2.5 billion in capital investment and
- created and retained a total of 13,871 jobs.
Since Governor Kelly has been in office, her administration has:
- closed 224 projects worth more than $3.8 billion in capital investment
- which promise to create and retain 26,661 jobs.
Economic Development: Governor Kelly’s administration remains committed to rebuilding Kansas’ economic foundation. In addition to reaching a historic, record breaking milestone, the Kelly administration has worked diligently to rebuild Kansas’ foundation:
- SEPTEMBER: Governor Laura Kelly announced a new KANSASWORKS KanVet website to provide Kansas veterans specific resources and benefits on a one-stop webpage.
- NOVEMBER: Governor Laura Kelly announced the creation of the Kansas Main Street Affiliate Community Program, an initiative designed to introduce more Kansas communities to the resources and technical assistance offered through Kansas Main Street.
- NOVEMBER: Announced that nearly 2,000 Kansas small businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic would receive a share of more than $130 million in Small Business Working Capital (SBWC) grants.
- DECEMBER: In 2020, Governor Kelly distributed more than $34.7 million in Community Development Block Grants to projects across Kansas.
Transportation and Infrastructure: Governor Kelly has always prioritized transportation and infrastructure throughout her administration.
- APRIL: Governor Laura Kelly signed bipartisan Senate Bill 173 into law, creating new 10-year Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program.
- JULY: The Office of Rural Prosperity completed the 2020 virtual listening tour to continue the Kelly administration’s work towards solutions that will foster growth and prosperity in rural areas.
- JULY: The Office of Rural Prosperity launched a partnership with the Kansas Sampler Foundation to engage, empower, retain and recruit young people in rural Kansas.
- AUGUST: Governor Laura Kelly announces Grain Belt Express transmission line project with Invenergy to save up to $7 billion in electricity cost savings for Kansas and Missouri consumers by 2024.
- OCTOBER: Established the Office of Broadband Development through EO #20-67, a step towards achieving the administration’s commitment of universal broadband coverage across Kansas.
- NOVEMBER/OCTOBER: Secured $135 million in statewide funds and Connectivity Emergency Response Grant funds to expand broadband, specifically is underserved communities across Kansas.
- NOVEMBER: Governor Laura Kelly announced more than $6 million in local transportation, technology projects statewide, marking the first-ever awards for KDOT’s Innovative Technology program made possible by the Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program.
- DECEMBER: Governor Laura Kelly announced more than $5.1 billion in grants as part of the Kansas Local Bridge Improvement Program.
- DECEMBER: Governor Kelly announced First Statewide Housing Needs Assessment in 27 Years.
Education: Continuing her promise to fully fund public education and improve access and opportunity for our state’s children, Governor Kelly made significant headway for students and teachers this year despite the challenges posed by COVID-19.
- Fully funded K-12 education in the 2020 budget.
- Secured more than $57 million in early childhood grants.
- FEBRUARY: Received a $26.8 million grant from the Administration for Children and Families to continue efforts to strengthen the early childhood system in Kansas.
- APRIL: Awarded $8,943,000 as part of three-year federal Preschool Development Grant.
- NOVEMBER: Secured more than $2.1 million in grant funding to fuel 59 ‘All in for Kansas Kids’ Quality Subgrants to help communities, service and child care providers, and other early childhood champions address needs and gaps in the early childhood care and education system through locally-driven ideas and approaches.
- SEPTEMBER: Secured $21,700,000 in CARES Act funds for education.
- JULY: Signed Executive Order #20-53, implementing Foster Care report cards to improve the transparency and function of Kansas’ foster care and public education systems.
- AUGUST: In partnership with the DCF, Governor Kelly expanded the eligibility criteria for the Hero Relief Program and announced additional benefits for those receiving child care assistance to support families with delayed school openings.
- NOVEMBER: Governor Kelly received the 5 of 5 Award from the National President of Jobs for America’s Graduates in recognition of Kansas meeting or exceeding national performance measures in five categories, including graduation rate and positive student outcomes.
Wreaths Across America 2021: Fundraising Underway
Fundraising Efforts Underway to Support
Wreaths Across America 2021
Local volunteers are already working hard to ensure that all veterans laid to rest at Fort Scott National Cemetery are honored next December on National Wreaths Across America Day. Now through January 15, 2021, any $15. wreath sponsorships received through the local “Friends of Fort Scott National Cemetery” fundraising group will be matched by Wreaths Across America.
Our community was recently blessed with the goal met to lay a wreath on over 6200 graves at Fort Scott National Cemetery. The goal for next year is to again place a wreath at the headstone of every veteran buried at Fort Scott National Cemetery and spread patriotism and commemoration for the ultimate sacrifice they made for our country. Each wreath is a meaningful gift of remembrance for an appreciated American who knows what it means to serve and sacrifice for the freedoms we all enjoy. We are grateful to the community of Fort Scott and the volunteers who participated in our mission to “ Remember, Honor and Teach”.
To sponsor a $15. Veteran’s wreath through Friends of Fort Scott National Cemetery you can mail checks payable to Wreaths Across America to Stewart Realty Co., P. O. Box 937, Fort Scott, Kansas, or call for instructions to use your debit or credit card (620-223-6700). This is an excellent opportunity to double the effect of your donations. Fundraising for this local event is a monumental task and it is not too early to start. Your support is greatly appreciated. All donations for this matching funds effort must be received no later than January 15, 2021.
Obituary of Kenneth Clampitt
Kenneth Leon Clampitt, age 43, a resident of rural Fulton, Kansas, passed away unexpectedly Tuesday, December 29, 2020, at his home following an apparent heart attack.
He was born July 20, 1977, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. In earlier years, Kenny worked for Extrustions. He later farmed for Mike and Shana Emerson for eighteen years.
Kenny enjoyed hunting, fishing and spending time around a bonfire. He often smoked meat for family gatherings and other events. He also enjoyed raising game fowl. Kenny also officiated at several weddings.
Survivors include his parents, David and Brenda Hathaway, of the home in Fulton; two brothers, Clinton Clampitt also of the home and Kyle Hathaway (Shannon), of Ft. Scott; three sisters, Angela Carpenter (Jeff), Rhonda Cole (Ben) and Rachel Thompson, all of Ft. Scott and several nieces and nephews.
There was cremation. The family will receive friends from 4 to 6 P.M. Saturday evening at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Private burial will take place at a later date in the Barnesville Cemetery east of Fulton. Memorials are suggested to the Kenny Clampitt Memorial Fund 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.
Guide to Dec 2020 COVID Relief Bill
This new version focuses on businesses with 300 or fewer employees that can demonstrate a revenue loss of 25% or more in any quarter of2020 (vs. 2019).
The Loan amount is 2.5 times the average monthly payroll; restaurant and hospitality businesses receive 3.5 times. Additional expenses qualify and simplified the forgiveness process.
PAYCHECK PROTECTION PROGRAM (PPP)
ACTION: Consult your lender
Here’s another reprise – SBA loan payments paid for you. Three additional P&I payments starting February 2021 for existing loans, 5 more months for smallest and hardest-hit businesses – capped at $9,000. New loans also eligible for the program.
SBA DEBT RELIEF EXTENDED
ACTION: Payments are automatic, but consult your SBA lender
GUIDE TO DEC 2020COVID RELIEF BILL
Actions You Can Take
Gig workers, self-employed and independent contractors receive extended benefits through march 14, 2021. Increased benefit period to 50 weeks.
PANDEMIC UNEMPLOYMENT ASSISTANCE
ACTION: File for unemployment:
https://www.getkansasbenefits.gov/Home.aspx
Yes, it’s back! But focused on businesses and non-profits in low-income communities. May also receive top-up to $10K on their previous EIDL Grant.
$10,000 EIDL GRANT
ACTION: https://www.sba.gov/funding-programs/loans/coronavirus-relief-options/economic-injury-disaster-loans
Extended and expanded Employee RetentionTax Credit (ERTC)
All forgiven PPP expenses are tax-deductible
EIDL grants no longer reduce PPP forgiveness amounts
Extended payroll tax credits for paid sick &family leave
Grants for entertainment venues (live events, movie theaters, cultural institutions
$600 direct payments to taxpayers
OTHER ASSISTANCE
www.kansassbdc.net/covid19
FOR KANSAS BUSINESS OWNERS
This summary information is based upon currently available information at the time of publication and is subject to interpretation at all levels of government.
December Uniontown 4-H Report
Submitted by Kendyl Bloesser, Club Reporter
The Uniontown 4H Club met on Sunday, December 13th for their monthly meeting. During the meeting, members were recognized for their 2019-2020 4H achievements in three main categories: MIG (Member in Good Standing – 4H participation summary), Membership Pins, and KAP (project based Kansas Award Portfolio). Below are members and achievements recognized during the ceremony.
Kendyl Bloessser: Junior purple MIG, 3rd year clover pin, 1st junior foods KAP and 2nd junior fiber arts KAP
MaKinlee Bloesser: Junior purple MIG, 2nd year bronze pin, 1st junior fiber arts KAP and 2nd junior foods KAP
Jack Endicott: Cloverbud pin
Bareigh Farrell: Senior blue MIG and 3rd year clover pin
Austin Maycumber: Junior purple MIG, 2nd year bronze pin and 1st junior space tech KAP.
Will Maycumber: Intermediete purple MIG, 2nd year bronze pin, and 1st intermediate space tech KAP
Hunter Minor: Intermediate red MIG
Lane Minor: Intermediate red MIG and 1st year membership pin
Hailey Shadden: Intermediate blue MIG and 2nd year bronze pin
Seth Shadden: Intermediate purple MIG and 2nd year bronze pin
Bane Stone: Junior blue MIG and 1st year membership pin
Marley Sutton: Junior purple MIG, 3rd year clover pin, 1st junior swine KAP and 2nd junior sheep KAP
McKinley Sutton: Junior purple MIG, 3rd year clover pin, 1st junior sheep KAP and 2nd junior swine KAP
Tucker Sutton: Cloverbud membership pin
Calvin Walker: Intermediate blue MIG and 2nd year bronze pin
Additional awards recognized were: Club Seal – Purple, Community Leaders, Project Leaders and Teen Leaders. Melanie Bloesser: 6th year community leader, Laura George: 30th year rabbits, Deidra Maycumber: 1st year comunity leader, and Sara Sutton: 3rd year community leader.
Low-Income Energy Assistance Available For Heating Bills
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Low-Income Energy Assistance Program to Begin, Help Heat Kansas Homes
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today announced that to help keep Kansans warm this winter, the Kansas Department for Children and Families (DCF) will begin accepting applications for its Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) on Monday, Jan. 4.
“During the cold winter months, it is important that all Kansans have access to the resources they need to heat their homes and ensure their families can stay safe and healthy,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all those who qualify to apply for this program. My administration is committed to protecting Kansas families now, throughout the pandemic, and into the future.”
LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay winter heating bills. Persons with disabilities, older adults and families with children are the primary groups assisted. In 2020, about 34,000 households received an average benefit of $960.
“Winters in Kansas have the likelihood of bringing frigid temperatures, add in the financial pressures of the pandemic, it’s especially important this year that families have access to this important service to avoid financial concerns,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “Our staff is prepared to begin processing LIEAP applications, so families have warm homes this winter season.”
To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills. Income eligibility requirements are set at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. The level of benefit varies according to household income, number of people living in the home, type of residence, type of heating fuel and utility rates.
Applicants need to have made payments on their heating bill two out of the last three months. Those payments must be equal to or exceed $80 or the total balance due on their energy bills, whichever is less.
Applications for the program have been mailed to households that received energy assistance last year. LIEAP applications are also available at local DCF offices and through partnering agencies starting Jan. 4. They can be requested by calling 1-800-432-0043. To apply online, visit https://cssp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal. For more information, visit http://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/EnergyAssistance.aspx.
Applications will be accepted from Jan. 4 to March 31.
Income eligibility determination:
Funding for the Low-Income Energy Assistance program is provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Community Service through the Federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
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The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Report Dec. 30
Death Notice of Merle Robinson
Merle Wayne Robinson, 84, formerly of Fort Scott, passed away Monday morning, December 28, 2020, in El Dorado, Kansas.
Rev. Rob Bolton will conduct Graveside services 10:00 a.m. Friday, January 8, 2021, at the Uniontown Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
The complete obituary will appear online and in the Fort Scott Tribune later.
Obituary of Larry Palet
Larry E. Palet, 74, of Fort Scott, passed away Monday, December 28, 2020. He was born January 31, 1945, in Chanute, Kansas, the son of Lowell E. and Hazel L. (Butts) Palet.
He married Beatrice Dunnam July 4, 1985, in Bronson, Kansas, and she preceded him in death July 16, 2019.
Larry was a farmer, and also worked for Peerless Products for eight years.
Survivors include his stepchildren, Lorrie Cameron and husband Shawn of Fort Scott, Albert Tanner & wife Marita of Uniontown, Flo Tanner, of Fort Scott, and Archie Alexander and wife Michelle, also of Fort Scott; nine grandchildren; and four great-grandchildren. In addition to his wife Beatrice, Larry was also preceded in death by his parents.
Trevor Jacobs will conduct graveside services at 11:00 a.m. on Monday, January 4, 2021, at the Oak Grove Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.
The family will have a visitation 4:00-5:00 p.m. Sunday evening January 3, 2021, at the funeral home. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
Obituary of Domonic Robinson
Domonic Martinez “Heavy” Robinson, age 27, a resident of Independence, Missouri, passed away late Friday, December 25, 2020, as the result of an automobile accident in Jackson County, Missouri.
He was born December 12, 1993, in Iola, Kansas, the son of Carl Joe Robinson, Jr. and Anicia Monique Lindsey Robinson.
Domonic graduated from the Uniontown High School in Uniontown, Kansas and later completed welding school in Nevada, Missouri. He was currently working as a welder for Boilermakers Local #83.
Domonic married Akilia Harris on July 21, 2017. Domonic was devoted to his family and provided well for their needs as well as others.
He enjoyed riding his motorcycle, collecting guns, and barbecuing. He was an avid fan of the Green Bay Packers and was a member of the United Missionary Baptist Church.
Survivors include his wife, Akilia, of the home; and three sons, Jayden, Jordan and Khalil Robinson with one more son due to arrive in June.
He is also survived by his mother, Anicia Robinson, of Bronson, Kansas, his father, Carl J. “Pete” Robinson, Jr., of Ft. Scott, Kansas; three brothers, Du’Shaun Robinson and De’Vonte Robinson, both of Ft. Scott and Charles Harris, of Atlanta, Georgia, a sister, Da’Nisha Robinson, of Bronson, Kansas; his grandmothers, Helen Patterson of Ft. Scott and Alma Williams, of Bronson, two aunts, Ruthie Robinson and Charlene Williams, both of St. Louis, Missouri, an uncle, Christopher Lindsey, of Iola, Kansas, his father-in-law, William Harris and good friends, Mitchell Newman and Jordan Woods.
He was preceded in death by his grandfathers, Charles Williams and Carl Robinson, Sr., an uncle, John Whitworth and a good friend Brandon Weyant.
Rev. George Proctor and Rev. Marty Dewitt will conduct funeral services at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, January 9th at the First Missionary Baptist Church in Uniontown, Kansas.
Burial will follow in the Bronson Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 9 A.M. until service time on Saturday at the church.
Memorials are suggested to the Robinson Children Education Fund 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.
Bourbon County Commission Special Meeting Agenda Dec. 29
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: December 29, 2020
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Kendell Mason
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.
2:00 Executive Session – Confidential data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships