Category Archives: Area News

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Craw-Kan Expanding Service In Bourbon County

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Craw-Kan Telephone Cooperative, Girard, is extending its’  “Fiber to the Home” network into the city limits of Fort Scott.

“We will be offering ultra-fast fiber optic internet up to 1 gigabit, high definition cable TV services, and phone service to residences and businesses,” said Zach Adams, Manager of Marketing and Customer Service of Craw-Kan Telephone Cooperative.

“We will be providing better, faster, more reliable services using the latest technology at extremely competitive prices,” Adams said. “We will not require residential contracts and do not charge equipment rental fees or installation fees on new customers.”

Internet pricing starts at $50 per month and cable TV packages as low as $39 per month, Adams said.
For current pricing and packages see the business website www.ckt.net

“We are already hooking up customers in select areas and taking orders in Country Club Hills and along Indian Road and West 23rd Street,” Adam said. “Keep an eye on your mailbox for notification of availability in your area!”

Craw-Kan is hoping to expand its customer base and the size of its network footprint, he said.

The current plan is to finish the main trunk line loop through the city and begin building in some neighborhoods along the way.

“Later this year we plan to begin building in the historic downtown district and industrial parks,” Adams said. “Next year we plan to announce a larger scale expansion that will reach a large number of residents.”

  ” We have served a large portion of rural Bourbon county for a long time,” Adams said. ” This is an extension into the city limits.”

The fiber is 100 percent buried, so there is no weather interference, Adams said. ” It is optic (light) rather than electrical so there is no electrical interference. It is a dedicated link, so no sharing with other users.  It provides the most bandwidth available into the home – no speed restrictions based on distance.  It is low maintenance and highly reliable – nearly 99.95% uptime. “
For more information, contact Craw-Kan Telephone Cooperative at 620-724-8235

 

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New Medicare Cards This Year

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Between April 2018 and April 2019, Medicare will be removing Social Security numbers from Medicare cards and mailing each person a new card. This will help keep your information more secure and help protect your identity.

Patients with Medicare will get a new Medicare number that is unique, and will only be used for Medicare coverage. The new card won’t change coverage or benefits.

Here’s how you can get ready:

  • Make sure your mailing address is up to date. If your address needs to be corrected, contact Social Security at ssa.gov/myaccount or 1-800-772-1213. TTY users can call 1-800-325-0778.
  • Beware of anyone who contacts you about your new Medicare card. Medicare will never ask you to give personal or private information to get your new Medicare Number and card.

According to the cms.gov website, here are 10 things to know about your new Medicare card:

1. Mailing takes time: Your card may arrive at a different time than your friend’s or neighbor’s.

2. Destroy your old Medicare card: Once you get your new Medicare card, destroy your old Medicare card and start using your new card right away.

3. Guard your card: Only give your new Medicare Number to doctors, pharmacists, other health care providers, your insurers, or people you trust to work with Medicare on your behalf.

4. Your Medicare Number is unique: Your card has a new number instead of your Social Security Number. This new number is unique to you.

5. Your new card is paper: Paper cards are easier for many providers to use and copy, and they save taxpayers a lot of money. Plus, you can print your own replacement card if you need one!

6. Keep your new card with you: Carry your new card and show it to your health care providers when you need care.

7. Your doctor knows it’s coming: Doctors, other health care facilities and providers will ask for your new Medicare card when you need care.

8. You can find your number: If you forget your new card, you, your doctor or other health care provider may be able to look up your Medicare Number online.

9. Keep your Medicare Advantage Card: If you’re in a Medicare Advantage Plan (like an HMO or PPO), your Medicare Advantage Plan ID card is your main card for Medicare – you should still keep and use it whenever you need care. However, you also may be asked to show your new Medicare card, so you should carry this card too.

10. Help is available: If you don’t get your new Medicare card by April 2019, call 1-800- MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227). TTY users can call 1-877-486-2048. You have the right to get Medicare information in an accessible format, like large print, Braille, or audio. You also have the right to file a complaint if you feel you’ve been discriminated against. Visit CMS.gov/about-cms/agency-information/aboutwebsite/cmsnondiscriminationnotice.html, or call 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) for more information. TTY users can call 1-877- 486-2048.

Mercy Hospital Fort Scott is an acute care hospital with 46 licensed beds, offering comprehensive medical, surgical, OB/GYN, pediatric, homecare and hospice services. Inpatient care is provided with 24/7 physician coverage. In 2017, Mercy Hospital Fort Scott received The Leapfrog Group’s prestigious A rating. Mercy Clinic Fort Scott is located on hospital grounds as well as Mercy rural health clinics in Arma and Pleasanton.

 

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Job Fair April 24 at Ellis Center at FSCC

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2018 Spring JOB FAIR

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce cordially invites you to reserve a table at our 2018 Spring Job Fair! 

 
This is the opportunity to find the talent
your business has been looking for.
Don’t delay… Reserve your spot TODAY!
Click here to register online or click here for
the printable registration form.
Call the Chamber with any questions at 620-223-3566.
Please see important details below.
Click HERE to Print PDF 
Area News, Submitted

Senator Richard Hilderbrand Weekly Newsletter March 9

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State senator Richard Hilderbrand 13th district

communications from the state capitol

March 9, 2018 ∙ Week Nine

Quote of the Week:
“The Constitution shall never be construed…to prevent the people of the United States

Who are peaceable citizens from keeping their own arms.”

– Samuel Adams, Debates and Proceedings in the Convention of the Commonwealth

of Massachusetts, 86-87

HARD FACTS:

Many of us have “learn a new language” on our to-do list. With Mango Languages, you can learn over 70 languages right from your own computer (or smartphone!). This online language learning service provided by the State Library is easy to use. Choose from 72 languages including Spanish, French, Mandarin, Japanese, plus many more. Mango uses real life situations and conversations to more effectively teach a new language.  Mango also includes 19 English as a second language options. Use as a Guest or register to track your progress (and for smartphone use). https://kslib.info/Mango

If the page above asks for a Kansas Library eCard number, you may get one at any library in Kansas.  Most people will be automatically recognized as inside Kansas and will not need this step.   Questions: [email protected] or 785-296-3296.  To see all the State Library’s online resources, visit http://kslib.info/eor

It was nice to have a chance to discuss issues in the Capitol, with faculty and students from the Pittsburg State University Social Work Program, this week.

FLOOR ACTION:

MICROBREWERY CONTRACTING (HB 2470): House Bill 2470 allows Kansas microbreweries to contract with other microbreweries to sell and package beer and hard cider. The legislation regulates the amount of beer and hard cider that can be transported between facilities. This bill passed the Senate 39-0.

CEREAL MALT BEVERAGE SALE REGULATIONS (HB 2502): House Bill 2502 allows cereal malt beverage (no more than 6.0 percent alcohol volume) licenses to be subject to state and local taxes instead of the state liquor tax. This bill passed the Senate 39-0.

CONVENTION OF STATES (SCR 1611): Senate Concurrent Resolution 1611 makes the application to the Congress of the United States to call a convention for the purpose of proposing amendments to the Constitution of the United States that impose limits on the federal government. This bill failed 22-16 (The resolution needed 27 votes or two-thirds in favor to pass). I voted against this bill, for the following reasons;

    • Why do we need another resolution calling for a convention of states, when in 1978 the state passed SCR 1661, and in 1995 the state passed HCR 5008, both calling for a convention?
    • We have not clearly defined how we will be picking our delegates to represent our state. We must have a defined process that will ensure that the voice of our citizens is properly represented. (We can’t wait until a convention is called and then do a continuing resolution to address this, like the sponsors of this resolution suggest. To do that would be akin to Nancy Pelosi saying we needed to pass Obama Care so we would know what’s in it.)
    • We have not clearly defined the rules of which our delegates will follow, to ensure that the size and scope of a convention will not produce any “clarifying clauses” on any existing amendments. (The organization that is sponsoring this resolution admitted recently that they had a focus group that was working on a “clarifying clause” for the 2nd Amendment. The 2nd Amendment is already clear enough: “…the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed upon.” If they have admitted to working on this “clarifying clause” what other amendments are they working on?)
    • We have not clearly defined the rules for which the amendments coming out of a convention will be ratified. (Before the convention of 1787, 13 of 13 states were needed to ratify any amendments to The Articles of Confederation. The result of that convention was the new Constitution of the United States that only needed 9 of 13 states to ratify. How did that happen, and why?)
    • If we say that we truly understand that the will of the people includes term limits for public office. Why are we are going to pass a resolution demanding term limits for the US Congress, while we ourselves won’t pass term limits on ourselves.
    • If we truly believe that the will of the people is for the US Congress to have a balanced budget, why do we ourselves balance our budget only by passing record retroactive $1.2 billion tax increases, increasing our own indebtedness, continuing to sweep funds from KDOT, delaying more KPERS payments, and other budget maneuvers to balance ours.
    • If we truly believe that the will of the people is to pass a resolution to impose restrictions on the power and jurisdiction of our US Congress. Shouldn’t we ourselves work on cutting and eliminating our nearly 10,000 active state regulations.
    • We understand the anger and frustration of our citizens when it comes to our elected officials. We understand that they demand change, and they demand it now. We as state legislators just don’t understand that this frustration, anger and need for change includes us as well.

I am looking forward to working with my colleagues to address these concerns. With the state of Kansas already having two active resolutions calling for a convention, we cannot delay in addressing these concerns. The time to correct these issues is now, not after a convention has been called.

SENATOR DOLL’S PARTY AFFILIATION CHANGE:

This week Senator John Doll (I- Garden City) changed his party affiliation from republican to independent. Senator Doll changed his party affiliation to join Greg Orman’s independent ticket for governor.

In 2006, Doll ran as a democrat for US Congress against Jerry Moran in District 1. From 2010-2011 Doll served as the mayor of Garden City and then served in the Kansas House of Representatives as a republican from 2013 to 2016. Doll has been in the Kansas Senate since 2016.

Due to Sen. Doll’s affiliation change and in accordance to Senate Rule 22, the following Senators have replaced Sen. Doll in his committees:

  • Education Committee: Senator Larry Alley – Vice Chair

Senator Bruce Givens

  • Ethics, Elections, & Local Government Committee: Senator Susan Wagle
  • Transportation Committee: Senator Dan Goddard – Vice Chair

Senator Ty Masterson

  • Ways & Means Committee: Senator Susan Wagle

Presenting the Fort Scott USD 234 Debate Team with a Senate Resolution congratulating and commending the members of the Fort Scott High School debate team for their performance in the class 4A state debate tournament.

Senators Hilderbrand and Tyson introduced the following Senate resolution, which

was read:

SENATE RESOLUTION No. 1773―

A RESOLUTION

congratulating and commending the members of the Fort Scott High

School debate team for their performance in the class 4A state debate tournament.

WHEREAS, The Fort Scott High School debate team traveled to Coffeyville,

Kansas, for the 4A State Debate Tournament on January 12 and 13; and

WHEREAS, The team was represented in the four-speaker division by the regional

championship team of Darby Toth, Rebekah Sweyko, Joe Adams and Isabella Provence,

with alternates Kaden Kiwan and Ashtyn Dowell. The team took fourth place to KC

Piper, Bishop Miege and Louisburg by one win; and

WHEREAS, In the two-speaker division, the team took four pairs, the maximum

number allowed for a school. In order to qualify, the teams earned a win-loss record of

50% or better over four tournaments above the novice level. Fort Scott was represented

by the teams of Madison Toth and Mark Adams; Zoe Self and Elizabeth Ngatia;

Brooklyn Lyons and Dalton Womeldorff; and Tayton Majors and Sara Al-Shawish; and

WHEREAS, Sixty teams participated in the tournament and all four Fort Scott teams

broke to double octofinals. In the double octofinal round, Madison Toth and Mark

Adams lost to Nickerson, while Brooklyn Lyons and Dalton Womeldorff lost to

Louisburg. Tayton Majors and Sara Al-Shawish made it to the quarterfinals and ended

up fourth after losing to Topeka Hayden. The team of Zoe Self, a first-year debater, and

Elizabeth Ngatia, a second-year debater, lost in the finals to Wichita Collegiate and

brought home the second-place trophy; and

WHEREAS, The Fort Scott High School debate team has been state champion or

state runner-up in four of the last five years and is coached by Amber Toth, with

assistant coaches Travis Toth and Sarah Bahr: Now, therefore,

Be it resolved by the Senate of the State of Kansas:

That we congratulate and

commend the Fort Scott High School debate team and their coaches for their

outstanding performance in the class 4A state debate tournament; and

Be it further resolved:

That the Secretary of the Senate shall send enrolled copies of

this resolution to Senators Hilderbrand and Tyson, and 18 enrolled copies to Amber

Toth.

On emergency motion of

Senator Hilderbrand

SR 1773

was adopted unanimously.

The senate honored the students with a standing ovation.

QUALIFICATIONS FOR CERTAIN STATEWIDE OFFICE:

On Wednesday, the Senate Committee on Ethics, Elections and Local Government held a hearing on HB 2539 which deals with qualifications for candidates seeking certain statewide office. The bill would list a minimum age requirement to run for governor, lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state, state treasurer, and insurance commissioner.

Currently, there is not a minimum age requirement therefore any current resident of Kansas is eligible to run. There were two proponents of the bill at Wednesday’s hearing, the Kansas Secretary of State’s office and Kansas House Representative Blake Carpenter. Both noted that a “qualified elector” should be at least 18 years of age.

Wichita Eagle Exposes Web of Special Carve-Outs in Kansas Tax Law

On February 26th, the Wichita Eagle published an article by Jonathan Shorman (http://www.kansas.com/news/politics-government/article202129814.html) discussing the multitude of tax exemptions that are provided in Kansas law. As the article reveals:

“All told, Kansas grants more than $6 billion in credits and exemptions each year, according to a report last fall (http://www.kslpa.org/assets/files/reports/r-17-015.pdf) from state auditors. The vast majority — about $5.9 billion — comes from sales tax exemptions.

Just over 80 percent of what the state gives away in sales tax exemptions is required by the federal government or needed to avoid double taxation, auditors said in a 2010 review. For example, Kansas has a sales tax exemption for food stamps based on federal law.

That means the state directly controls about $1.2 billion a year in exemptions and credits.”

In the past, conservatives in the Kansas Legislature have attempted to reform the process for granting exemptions and/or repeal some with the goal of reducing overall rates for all Kansans. As Rep. John Whitmer said in the article:

“If we had had that kind of revenue coming in, would they have had to do a $1.2 billion retroactive tax increase? Would we be fighting the courts? My take: Yes, because we would have spent all that money anyway. But I’m sure it would be a different picture.”

NFIB: Small Businesses Can’t Afford Higher Property Taxes
https://www.nfib.com/content/news/kansas/nfib-small-businesses-cant-afford-higher-property-taxes/

Key Excerpt:

As we know anecdotally, small businesses rank property taxes among the most despised taxes because they pay the tax whether they are producing income or not. Indeed, our research backs up this claim. In NFIB’s most recent Small Business Problems and Priorities (http://www.nfib.com/assets/NFIB-Problems-and-Priorities-2016.pdf), a publication with extensive research on the problems facing small businesses, property taxes were the 8th most concerning issue, which was just ahead of state income tax rates at 9th.


HOUSE COMMITTEE DEBATES BILL TO HIKE PROPERTY TAXES

House Tax Committee held a hearing this week on a bill that, if passed, could nearly double the statewide mill levy from the current 20.0 mills to 38.43 mills in 2021. This would mean an increase in property taxes collected nearly two-fold.

Details of HB 2740:

Estimated property tax revenues from the current 20.00 mill levy for FY 2019 are $670.3 million.

The Kansas Department of Revenue estimates HB 2740 would increase revenues from the mill levy by a total of $234.9 million in FY 2019, $445.4 million in FY 2020 and $640.5 million in FY 2021.

HOUSE LEADERSHIP RELEASES KANSAS SAFE AND SECURE SCHOOLS ACT

HB 2773, the Kansas Safe and Secure Schools Act, was introduced in the House this week. The act creates the school safety and security grant fund, requires the State Board of Education to develop statewide requirements for public school buildings and requires public school districts to adopt a comprehensive school safety plan, based on the SBOE requirements. The act also allows school districts to provide firearm safety programs and adds an additional 2 FTE to the Department of Education for the management of the Safe and Secure Schools Act.

Details of HB 2773

  • Creates the School Safety and Security Grand Fund, which the State Board of Education will administer.
    • Allows for $5.0 million to be used for infrastructure improvements and training.
  • State Board of Education will develop statewide requirements for public school buildings, which shall include, but are not limited to; building infrastructure, technology and communication systems.
  • School district will be required to adopt a comprehensive school safety plan based on the SBOE requirements, which should include:
    • Staff training
    • Emergency drills
    • Communication procedures
    • Lockdown procedures
    • Evacuation procedures
    • Evaluation of building infrastructure
    • Review of existing emergency procedures
    • Recovery procedures and distribution of safety plan
  • HB 2773 authorizes school districts to provide firearm safety education programs, such as the Eddie Eagle program or any other evidence-based program.
  • HB 2773 also adds 2 FTE to the Department of Education to manage the School Safety and Security Act, with a cost of $300,000 annually.

NEXT WEEK:

MONDAY-

  • Hearing on: SCR 1612, urging the state corporation commission to lower retail electric rates to regionally competitive levels – [Senate Commerce Committee, March 12 at 8:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2441, audits of state agencies; financial-compliance audits; Kansas lottery security audit; selection of auditors, contracts with – [Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee, March 12 at 10:30 am]
  • Hearing and staff briefing on (written testimony only): HB 2579, providing compensation for a person who was wrongfully convicted and imprisoned – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 12 at 10:30 am]
  • Hearing and staff briefing on (written testimony only): HB 2571, regulating access to certain law enforcement audio and video recordings – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 12 at 10:30 am]
  • Discussion on: Higher education budget – [Senate Ways and Means Committee, March 12 at 10:30 am]
  • Hearing on: SB 423, amending the Kansas school equity and enhancement act by eliminating the 10% at-risk floor and expanded uses of capital outlay – [Senate Select Committee on Education Finance, March 12 at 3:30 pm]

TUESDAY-

  • Hearing on: HB 2691, modifying notification requirements for the division of water resources regarding multi-year flex accounts and water right applications — [Senate Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee, March 13 at 8:30am]
  • Hearing on: Sub HB 2040, increasing the penalties for subsequent violations of traffic regulations prohibiting improper passing of school buses — [Senate Transportation Committee, March 13 at 8:30]
  • Pending referral, hearing on: SB 437, concerning sales and compensating use tax; relating to exemptions, sales of currency, certain coins or bullion — [Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, March 13 at 9:30]
  • Hearing on: (proponents) HB 2506, rehabilitation of abandoned property by cities — [Senate Ethics, Elections and Local Government Committee, March 13 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2639, allowing KDHE to collect a fee for fingerprinting individuals maintain or residing, working or regularly volunteering at a child care facility — [Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, March 13 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: SB 436, providing Medicaid coverage for cessation treatments — [Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, March 13 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2581, increasing criminal penalties for the crime of giving a false alarm in certain circumstance — [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 13 at 10:30am]
  • Hearing on: Sub HB 2359, enacting the Kansas cybersecurity act for executive branch agencies — [Senate Ways and Means Committee, March 13 at 10:30am]

WEDNESDAY-

  • Hearing on: SB 362, exempting labor from depreciation in certain property and casualty insurance claims — [Senate Financial Institutions and Insurance Committee, March 14 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2465, designating Kansas commission on veteran’s affairs office employees as safety sensate positions subject to drug screening — [Senate Federal and State Affairs Committee, March 14 at 10:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2459, amending the Kansas standard asset seizure and forfeiture act and establishing the Kansas asset seizure and forfeiture repository — [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 14 at 10:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2419, state finances; transfers to and expenditures from the budget stabilization fund; transfers to the Kansas public employees retirement fund — [Senate Ways and Means Committee, March 14 at 10:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2602, creating the legislative task force on dyslexia — [Senate Education Committee, March 14 at 1:30pm]

THURSDAY-

  • Hearing on: Sub HB 2147, providing an income tax refund for certain Native American veterans — [Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, March 15 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2505, cities; when mayor is considered part of the governing body for voting purposes — [Senate Ethics, Elections and Local Government Committee, March 15 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2597, Sedgwick county designated an urban area — [Senate Ethics, Elections and Local Government Committee, March 15 at 9:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2481, updating the Kansas adoption and relinquishment act — [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 15 at 10:30am]
  • Hearing on: SB 424, establishing the office of education inspector general — [Senate Education Committee, March 15 at 1:30pm]

FRIDAY-

  • Hearing on: SB 435, permitting real estate brokers and salespersons to give clients or customers rebates if disclosed in the purchase contract or listing agreement — [Senate Commerce Committee, March 16 at 8:30am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2524, allowing petitions for a protection from abuse order to include a request for transfer of rights to a wireless telephone number —[Senate Utilities Committee, March 16 at 1:30pm]
  • Presentation on: Joint Senate Select Committee on Education Finance & House K-12 Education Budget Committee — [Senate Select Committee on Education and Finance, March 16 at 1pm]

Below are links to make it easy for constituents to follow the Kansas Legislature:

Website – www.kslegislature.org. It is great for looking up bills, calendars, journals, as well as, the roster in each Chamber.

YouTube of Legislature – http://bit.ly/2CZj9O0 Did you know the legislature is now streaming its proceedings? The YouTube page has an archive of the sessions thus far – including the State of the State and the State of the Judiciary.

Committee Streaming – http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/ The Kansas Legislature is also streaming committees, with every committee room equipped with audio streaming technology.

Thank You for Engaging

Thank you for all your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. Constituent correspondence helps inform my decision-making process and is taken into great consideration when I cast my vote in the Kansas Senate. I hope you’ll continue to engage with me on the issues that matter most to you, your family, and our community. If you are on Twitter or Facebook, I encourage you to follow along with the #ksleg hashtag for real-time updates on legislative happenings in Topeka.

Please know that I am fully committed to addressing the current issues in our state, and I am proud to be your voice in the Kansas Senate.

Area News, Submitted

State DUI Policy Strengthened

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Governor Colyer Signs “Caitlin’s Law”, Strengthening State’s DUI Policy for Repeat Offenders

TOPEKA – Governor Jeff Colyer today signed HB 2439, also known as “Caitlin’s Law” into law, joined by Representative Russell Jennings (R-122) and members of the Vogel family.

The legislation is named for Caitlin Vogel who was tragically killed in 2016 by a repeat offender drunk driver in Johnson County. The initial research behind Caitlin’s law is credited to Blair Gordon, Caitlin’s former soccer coach and friend, who was motivated to seek changes to DUI policy after Caitlin’s death. Together with Representative Jennings, and other members of the Kansas legislature, Gordon and the Vogel family succeeded at getting the bill through the legislature and to the Governor’s desk on what would have been Caitlin Vogel’s 26th birthday.

“What happened to Caitlin was a terrible but preventable tragedy and we must do whatever we can as a government to try and prevent such deaths from happening in the future” said Governor Colyer, “I commend the Vogel family and Ms. Gordon for their tireless efforts to get this legislation passed to forever honor Caitlin’s memory in hopes that no one else will have to suffer what they have suffered.”

The bill, which passed both legislative chambers unanimously, strengthens penalties for repeat DUI offenders who kill or seriously injure others.

“For me, it is very gratifying to see harsher DUI penalties enacted into Kansas law in honor of Caitlin. Nothing can be done to bring her back, but knowing that others might not have to endure the pain of the loss of a friend or family member at the hands of a senseless DUI accident offers those of us close to Caitlin some measure of closure,” said Gordon.

“This bill assures those who choose to ignore limitations placed upon their privilege to drive as a result of DUI will feel the full weight of the law for their senseless act,” said Representative Jennings, the lead sponsor of the legislation, “We are sending a strong message; don’t do it, the price you pay will be very high if you do.”

“We are so honored to have our daughter’s name attached to this bill,” said Caitlin’s parents Patti and Kevin Vogel, “Caitlin’s Law will hold accountable the repeat offenders who have a blatant disregard for the restrictions placed on them for the privilege to continue to drive. Caitlin’s death at the hands of a drunk driver is a tragedy that is ours to bear for eternity. There will now be significant consequences & significant jail time for those repeat offenders who choose to drink & drive and then injure or kill someone.”

The full text of the bill is available at the following link:

http://www.kslegislature.org/li/b2017_18/measures/documents/hb2439_enrolled.pdf

The Governor has now signed 7 bills into law this session. By law, the Kansas Governor has 10 calendar days to sign bills into law, veto bills or allow bills to become law without his signature.

Area News, Fort Scott, Submitted

Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Event Calendar March 9-11

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The Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall

FRI & SAT – 10:00 am – 5:00 pm – Livestock Sales – Fort Scott Livestock Market – 2131 Maple Rd. You don’t have to be a buyer to watch the sale and visit the café.

FRI, SAT & SUN – 8:30 am – 4:00 pm – Art Project: New Faces New Neighbors Fort Scott National Historic Site – History & Art come together. Kids have created textile works of art that
encompass the change of Fort Scott NHS throughout its history.

FRIDAY, March 9th
8:00 am – Water/Ways Exhibit on display- Fort Scott Regional Tourism Center – 231 E. Wall St
11:00 am – 4:00 pm – Trolley Tours on the hour, leave from the Tourism Center, 231 E. Wall, $6a/$4c, last tour@3pm
12:00 pm—7:00 pm – Bourbon County Fine Art Exhibit—Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center, on
the Campus of Fort Scott Community College.
2:00 pm – LAST DAY of All Hit KOMB 103.9 Radio Auction – Listen to All Hit 103.9FM for more details.
You WILL want to stay by your radio & your phone!
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm – Lenten Fish Fry– Every Friday through March 23 at Kennedy Gym 705 S. Holbrook
5:00 pm – Spaghetti Feed hosted by Winfield Scott and Eugene Ware Elementary PTO – Dinner includes salad, bread, drink and dessert at Buckrun Community Center – 735 S. Scott Ave.
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm – FSCC “Escape the Fort” Escape Room – Contact Matt Glades at [email protected] or call 620.223.2700 ext. 3520 to set up a time. “May the odds be ever in your favor”-Hunger Games
7:00 pm – Theology on Tap-“How are spirituality and religion connected for you, if at all?” 710 S. Crawford
7:30 pm – FSCC 37th Annual Spring College Rodeo- Around Arena – FSCC Campus
9:00 pm—1:00 am – Dirty Bourbon Band, Sharky’s Pub & Grub, 16 N. National Ave., $5 cover charge

SATURDAY, March 10th
8:00 am – 12:00 pm – FSHS Tiger Golf Team Car Wash – Typhoon Bay Car Wash, 15th & National Ave.
9:00 am – 12:00pm – Creative Memories Crop – 22 Golf View Dr.
9:00 am – Work Session, Dirt Sculpting, Trail Love, Whatever! – Gunn Park Trails, 1010 Park Ave.
11:00 am – 4:00 pm – Trolley Tours on the hour, leave from the Tourism Center, 231 E. Wall, $6a/$4c, last tour@3pm
10:00 am – Water/Ways Exhibit on display – Fort Scott Regional Tourism Center – 231 E. Wall St.
10:00 am – Water/Ways Storytime – FS Public Library, 201 S National Ave
8:30 pm – Baloney Ponyz – One of the country’s best, most authentic, “hair/hard rock” bands at Liberty
Theatre 113 S. Main St.
1:00 pm & 7:30 pm – FSCC 37th Annual Spring College Rodeo – Around Arena – FSCC Campus
9:00 pm—1:00 am – Dirty Bourbon Band, Sharky’s Pub & Grub, 16 N. National Ave., $5 cover charge

SUNDAY, March 11th
1:00 pm – FSCC 37th Annual Spring College Rodeo- Around Arena – FSCC Campus
6:00 pm – Lenten Worship Services – Trinity Lutheran Church, 2824 S Horton St.
Schedule of Special Events in Fort Scott, Kansas
March 9 –11, 2018
Tell your friends you’re here! Check in on Facebook! @ Visit Fort Scott KS
@ Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce 800-245-FORT (3678) * www.fortscott.com

Area News, Bourbon County

Area Artists Exhibit At Ellis Art Center

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Juror Tera Schultz holds a piece of artwork prior to the exhibit, in an effort to photograph the art without environmental light reflection. The piece is entitled “Young Soul, Seared Heart”  is by Jezeriah Simpson and was awarded second place in the drawing and graphics category.
Tera Schultz, Iola, tells the attendees why this piece was chosen best of the show for the 26th Annual Fine Arts Exhibit and Sale Wednesday evening. Shultz was the juror for the event.
Deb Halsey left, and Deb Anderson, right, discuss the artwork they are helping to prepare for display at the Bourbon County Art Council’s Annual Fine Arts Exhibit and Sale.

The Bourbon County Arts Council’s 26th Annual Fine Arts Exhibit and Sale has grown over the years, according to the judge who picked the winners.

Schultz judged about four years ago she said.

“There is a lot more artwork this time, 125 pieces,” Schultz said. “Last time it was 80ish pieces.”

This year is a bigger variety as well, she said.

Schultz said she looks for composition, color techniques, and technical skills when she judges art.

This year she felt like the jewelry pieces “were really beautifully done, they were amazing,” she said.

The exhibit continues from noon to 7 p.m. through March 9 at the Ellis Fine Art Center on the campus of Fort Scott Community College, 2108 S. Horton.

Featured below are the first and second place winners of the exhibit.

First place ceramics, Al Letner, Pittsburg.
Second place ceramics, Bobbie Kemna, Fort Scott.

 

First place sculpture, Kenzie Curran, Farlington.
Second place sculpture, Maxine Rader, Lamar, Mo.
First place mixed media, Robert Schlyer, Rich Hill, Mo.
Second place watercolor, Anita Wilson, Thayer.
First place watercolor, Jake Marshall, Overland Park.
Best of the show, 2-dimension, Carol Melton, Lamar, Mo.
First place drawing and graphics, Irene Schomacker, Spring Hill.
Second place mixed media, Lonny Vaughn Matlock, Girard.
Best of show jewelry, Chris Page, Fort Scott.
First place pastel, Chance Fuhrman, Bronson.
Second place jewelry, Barbara Gibson, Fort Scott.
First place jewelry, John Bartelsmeyer, Fort Scott.
First place photography, Linda Teeter, Carl Junction, Mo.
Second place pastel, Douglas Linthicum, Lamar, Mo.
Artist Kole Wagner stands in front of his winning submission to the art exhibit, which earned second place in photography.

Pictured below are some glimpses of artwork submitted to the exhibition by area artists.

The attendees listen as Juror Tera Shultz gives justification of the winners she selected in the exhibit.

The following are corporate prize sponsors: Mr. and Mrs. Richard Goldston, Landmark Bank,  City State Bank,  McDonald’s Restaurant, Union State Bank, H & R Block, H & H Realty, Fort Scott Broadcasting, Bernita Hill, Ward Kraft. The best of show prize is awarded in honor of E. C. Gordon.

Juror Tera Schultz is the fine arts instructor at Allen County Community College, Iola.

 

Area News, Schools, Submitted

Governor Signs Executive Order Creating Education Council

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Governor Jeff Colyer, M.D. signs Executive Order 18-10 Creating the Governor’s Education Council

TOPEKA, KS – Governor Jeff Colyer issued an Executive Order creating the Governor’s Education Council with the purpose of improving outcomes for Kansas kids. This group will provide a platform for connecting educators from Pre-K through higher education with leaders in the business community and state policymakers. Their mission will be to promote policies and strategies to effectively prepare students to successfully enter and thrive in the rapidly-changing 21st-century workforce.

“The future of Kansas depends largely on how we educate the next generation and prepare them to contribute their ideas and skills back in to our state,” said Governor Jeff Colyer, “It is our duty to help our students achieve their full potential and ensure they have the relevant knowledge, skills, and training that will prepare them for the jobs of the future.”

“An integrated educational system, from early childhood through postsecondary success, is essential in providing a world-class education for all Kansas children,” said Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson. “That means collaboration between all education providers — Pre-K through postsecondary — business and industry leaders and other agencies is key. I support Gov. Colyer’s efforts to establish this council, and I look forward to working with him on these important issues.”

This Council’s mission will be the following:

    1. Explore methods for integrating college and workforce preparedness into K-12 learning programs that align with and complement the work of the Kansans Can initiative of the KSDE.
    2. Consider the application of public-private partnerships in developing industry-specific learning goals.
    3. Inventory and assess existing workforce development initiatives within the state.
    4. Discuss a system for measuring effectiveness and accountability of educational opportunities beyond the common and known metrics.
    5. Inform and advise the Governor on educational initiatives and policies to improve the overall success of education and workforce development in Kansas.

“The jobs created in the new economy require education and skills beyond high school,” said Blake Flanders, president, and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents. “I’m excited to work with Commissioner Watson as Co-Chairs of the P-20 Council, which will focus on the entire educational continuum.”

The Council will be co-chaired by the President and CEO of the Kansas Board of Regents and the Commissioner of Education of the Kansas State Department of Education.   The Council will include representatives from three Cabinet agencies, 12 education-related organizations, and members chosen by the leadership of both parties in the House and Senate. The Governor will also appoint 3-5 members from the business community to serve on the Council.

The full text of the Executive Order can be found at https://governor.kansas.gov/executive-order-18-10-governors-education-council/

 

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Area News, Government

Legislators Answer Questions

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From left: Kansas District 12 State Senator Richard Hilderbrand (R), and District 4, Representative Trevor Jacobs (R) listen as District 12 State Senator Caryn Tyson (R) gives remarks at the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Legislative Coffee. At right is event moderator Mark McCoy. Not pictured is District 2 Representative Adam Lusker (D), who was late to the event.

Legislators gave answers to questions posed to them at Mercy Hospital’s Catherine Cafe Saturday morning during a legislative coffee sponsored by the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce.

Senator Richard Hilderbrand, Representative Trevor Jacobs, Representative Adam Lusker and Senator Caryn Tyson sat as a panel and received questions from the moderator,Chamber Member Mark McCoy and also questions from the audience.

Richard Hilderbrand is the Kansas District 13 Senator from Galena. He can be reached at 785-296-7370 or [email protected].

State Senator Richard Hilderbrand converses with the audience following the legislative coffee Saturday.

The following are excerpts from Hilderbrand’s answers to questions posed to the legislators on current issues.

On education, Senator Hilderbrand clarified in a later interview ” My position on restoring Higher Ed. funding is we need to prioritize all of our commitments that have been cut, and not to add any other new items to fund. We need to work on restoring cuts before adding anything new.”

Support of bill lowering the sexual consent age to 11 years of age:  “Absolutely not.”

School safety:  “It’s a heart issue, no law will fix hate.”

Community college funding:  “I haven’t heard anything at the state level.”

Poultry operations: “There were no existing statutes, so this puts some in place for rights….and kept local control.”

KanCare: “When they budgeted it was only for the initial cost….not maintaining…now they have to come back and raise fees.”

Convention of states: “I would not support that.”

Transportation: “For 2019, the finishing of Fort Scott to Pittsburg Highway 69 seems to be the mood.”

Parting remarks: “It’s important to have this interaction with constituents. If there are any issues, contact us.”

Trevor Jacobs is the District 4 Representative from Fort Scott. He can be reached at 785-296-7616 or [email protected].

State Representative Trevor Jacobs listens to constituents following the legislative coffee Saturday morning at Mercy Hospital.

The following are excerpts from Jacobs answers to questions posed to the legislators.

Education funding: “No more expansion of higher education.”

Support of bill lowering the sexual consent age to 11 years of age: “I would not.”

School safety:  “One of the 10 Commandments is ‘Thou shalt not kill’.  We need to address the root of the problem. We need a revolution of family and education.”

Property tax: “I’m not into raising taxes.”

Marijuana decriminalization: “I’m not in favor..we have enough problems.”

Convention of states: No

Transportation:  (Rep. Jacobs in a later interview stated)”I am on the House Transportation Committee. I was never told any date, it doesn’t look like Hwy. 69 is budgeted.”

Parting remarks: “I was able to introduce a Choose Life (car) license plate. Lord willing, they will pass, to show life is valuable.”

Rep. Adam Lusker speaks with a constituent following the legislative coffee Saturday morning.

District 2  Representative Adam Lusker (D) resides in Frontenac and can be reached at 785-296-7698 or [email protected].

The following are excerpts from Luskers’s answers to questions posed to the legislators.

Lusker was late to the coffee event, therefore did not answer some of the questions, explaining he misunderstood the begin time.

KanCare: “KanCare is problematic.”

DCF: “Deals with tough situations.”

Marijuana decriminalization:  “There is no legislation on either side for recreational marijuana. CDB oil passed for epilepsy but never came to fruition. We are a long way from legalizing in Kansas.”

Convention of states: “I would be opposed to a convention of states.”

Transportation: “Highway 69 in late 2019 will be completed. There is a $50-55 million budget. It will be on the front burner of the next transportation incentives for Bourbon County.

Parting remarks:”It’s a pleasure to serve you. I don’t align with these individuals (legislative colleagues)  on a lot of issues, but they are very good people. We work together for the best of Kansas.”

Senator Caryn Tyson listens to a constituent following the legislative coffee sponsored by the Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce.

Senator Caryn Tyson (R) represents Kansas District 4. She resides in Parker and can be reached at 785-296-6838 or [email protected].

Tyson said she is also running for U.S. Congress to replace Lynn Jenkins, who is retiring.

The following are excerpts from Tyson’s answers following questions posed to the legislators.

Education: “Over 60 percent of the state budget goes to k-12 and higher education…We have obligations for education but have other obligations. Schools can we do it better, can we do it smarter? We need to ask, is it a need or want.”

Support of bill lowering the sexual consent age to 11 years of age: “I would not vote to support that bill.”

School safety: “The hall talk is teachers to take training.”

Community college funding: “We have demonstrated our priority…60 percent of our budget is in education.”

Poultry operations: “The whole community should have input on their coming in.”

KanCare: “The legislature did not decide on that, the administration did. KanCare was pushed into the State of Kansas without legislation. We have to make sure our contracts are understood.”

DCF: “There are a lot of problems. (However) We have a new secretary.”

Marijuana decriminalization: “The issue is dosage control. There is no way to control. Kansas has lessened the laws for marijuana.

Convention of states: “It (the U.S. Constitution) is not a perfect document. Women wouldn’t be able to vote without constitutional amendments.”

Transportation: “Highway 69 will be completed.”

Parting remarks: “We are a citizen legislature. When we make decisions we need to know who we are impacting.”

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Area News, Government, Submitted

Kansas District 13 Senator Richard Hilderbrand’s Weekly Newsletter

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State senator Richard Hilderbrand 13th district

communications from the state capitol

March 2, 2018 ∙ Week Eight

Quote of the Week:
“Courage is contagious. When a brave man takes a stand;

the spines of others are often stiffened.”

– Billy Graham

HARD FACTS:

PRESENATION ON K-12 EDUCATION FUNDING:

On Friday February 23rd, Dr. Lori L. Taylor gave a preliminary presentation to a joint session of the Kansas Senate and House of Representatives on the methods, data, and analysis plan for her research on K-12 education funding in Kansas.

Dr. Taylor was hired by the Legislature in December to act as an expert witness and to investigate whether Kansas’ K-12 funding is adequate. This comes after the Kansas Supreme Court declared the current funding level is not enough and gave the legislature an April 30th deadline to create a new funding system.

Taylor, a native Kansan, holds a BA in economics and a BS in business administration from the University of Kansas and received her PhD in economics from the University of Rochester.

She is currently a professor at the Bush School of Government and Public Service at Texas A&M University and works as the Director for Mosbacher Institute for Trade, Economics, and Public Policy. Taylor’s research is focused in school finance and she has consulted for numerous state legislatures and state and federal agencies on the topic.

During Friday’s presentation, Taylor outlined her study’s objective to estimate the level of spending required to produce a given outcome within a given educational environment. Taylor explained that she is looking at many different factors of school finance such as differences in spending, student outcomes, student needs, labor costs, geographical differences, and many other variables. One major variable Taylor will investigate in her research is student achievement relative to spending per pupil.

Taylor is expected to deliver her results to the Legislature by March 15th, a few weeks before the court mandated deadline.

I had the opportunity to attend the Pittsburg Chamber of Commerce First Friday Legislative update on March 2nd, at the Kansas Crossing Casino, and on Saturday March 3rd, I had the opportunity to attend the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Legislative Update at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott.

TASK FORCE ON SUBSTANCE USE DISORDER

On Thursday, Governor Jeff Colyer issued an executive order creating a task force addressing substance use disorder. The objective of the task force is to gather information regarding substance abuse in Kansas, particularly regarding the growing number of opioid and heroin overdoses in the state along with methamphetamine addiction. The task force will work to find useful resources and initiatives to fight drug abuse. It will also examine practices for prevention and treatment along with recovery options for at-risk individuals through early detection and education.

Since 2012, more than 1,500 Kansans have died from opioid or heroin overdoses and more than 100 Kansas residents continue to die each year. In 2016, drug poisoning was the cause of death to more than 300 people in Kansas, with 95 deaths caused by methamphetamine alone. The task force acknowledges that substance abuse is an illness which not only impacts the lives of those addicted but also their families and surrounding communities.

The task force will be chaired by Dr. Greg Lakin, Chief Medical Officer at the Kansas Department of Health and Environment. Membership will be comprised of heads from numerous state agencies, legislators, and professionals in industries such as education, law enforcement, hospitals, and more.

AVIATION DAY:

The Kansas Department of Transportation Division of Aviation along with the Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education (KCAE) held their 4th annual Aviation Day event Thursday.

The day began with an economic development training event for city officials on how to best harness state and local resources to boost the aviation industry. During the Aviation Day event, legislators, manufacturers, suppliers, and aviation organizations gathered to discuss industry growth and opportunities and addressed development potentials for Kansas economic stakeholders.

The Kansas Commission on Aerospace Education highlighted industry development opportunities throughout the day, spreading awareness regarding STEM and aviation education through KCAE.

NEXT WEEK:

Monday-

    • Consideration of agency budget: Department of Education – [Senate Ways and Means Subcommittee on Education, March 5 at 11:30 am]
    • Presentation on: High Enrollment Weighting: KSDE, Dale Dennis, Deputy Commissioner, Legislative Research Department & Revisor of Statutes – [Senate Education Committee, March 5 at 1:30 pm]

Tuesday-

  • Hearing on: HB 2511, Making commercial driver’s licenses renewable every five years – [Senate Transportation Committee, March 6 at 8:30 am]
  • Hearing on: SB 400, tax lid exemption when taxing entity abolished and duties assumed by a city or county – [Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, March 6 at 9:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2088, allow use of certified drug abuse treatment program for drug severity level 4 crimes – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 6 at 10:30 am]
  • Presentation on: FutureMaker Mobile STEM Lab – update on Hands on Experience – [Senate Education Committee, March 6 at 1:30 pm]

Wednesday-

  • Hearing on: HB 2486, allowing golf carts to be driven on certain streets at night – [Senate Transportation Committee, March 7 at 8:30 am]
  • Hearing on: SB 415, depositing all state sales tax revenues from sales on the Kansas state fairgrounds into the state fair capital improvements fund – [Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, March 7 at 9:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2501, establishing the health occupations credentialing fee fund – [Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, March 7 at 9:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2600, increasing the fees assessed by KDHE for certain radiation protection services – [Senate Public Health and Welfare Committee, March 7 at 9:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2458, adding violations of the act for obtaining a guardian or conservator, or both, to the crimes of mistreatment of a dependent adult and mistreatment of an elder person, changing the felony loss thresholds and adding the crimes to the inherently dangerous felony list – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 7 at 10:30 am]
  • Hearing on: HB 2479, allowing criminal cases to be stayed during state appeal of writ of habeas corpus relief – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 7 at 10:30 am]
  • Hearing on SB 378, creating the crime of counterfeiting currency – [Senate Judiciary Committee, March 7 at 10:30 am]
  • Discussion on: Joint Senate Select Committee on Education Finance & House K-12 Education Budget Committee- Dr. Jesse Levin, Peer Review of the LPA and Augenblick Studies (Skype Presentation) – [Senate Select Committee on Education Finance and House K-12 Education Budget Committee, March 7 at 1:00 pm]

Thursday-

  • Hearing on: SB 367, sales taxation; treatment of coupons; certain cash rebates on sales or leases of new motor vehicles – [Senate Assessment and Taxation Committee, March 8 at 9:30 am]
  • Presentation on: Concurrent Enrollment – KBOR, Dr. Blake Flanders, President & CEO – [Senate Education Committee, March 8 at 1:30 pm]

Below are links to make it easy for constituents to follow the Kansas Legislature:

Website – www.kslegislature.org. It is great for looking up bills, calendars, journals, as well as, the roster in each Chamber.

YouTube of Legislature – http://bit.ly/2CZj9O0 Did you know the legislature is now streaming its proceedings? The YouTube page has an archive of the sessions thus far – including the State of the State and the State of the Judiciary.

Committee Streaming – http://sg001-harmony.sliq.net/00287/Harmony/en/View/Calendar/ The Kansas Legislature is also streaming committees, with every committee room equipped with audio streaming technology.

Thank You for Engaging

Thank you for all your calls, emails, and letters regarding your thoughts and concerns about happenings in Kansas. Constituent correspondence helps inform my decision-making process and is taken into great consideration when I cast my vote in the Kansas Senate. I

 

Area News, Submitted

Flags Order At Half-Staff Today For Billy Graham

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Governor Colyer Orders Flags to be Flown at Half-staff in Honor of Reverend Billy Graham

Topeka – In accordance with Executive Order 10-12, Kansas Governor Jeff Colyer has ordered flags to be flown at half-staff until sun-down today, Friday, March 2, 2018 to honor the life of Reverend Billy Graham who is to be buried today at his library in North Carolina.

“Billy Graham was an inspiration to entire generations of Americans. Like many, I remember listening to his sermons as a child,” said the Governor. “Billy truly left the world a better place than he found it. My heart goes out to his family for their loss.”

The White House last week issued a proclamation directing flags at all public buildings and military installations to be flown at half-staff on the day of Rev. Graham’s interment.

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