Category Archives: Business

Business, Food, Fort Scott

Lu’s Ice Cream Adds New Spaces and New Foods

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Lu’s Ice Cream Shop, 523 S. Main.

Since opening in December 2025, Lu’s Ice Cream Shop has been adding more food items and space to eat those items.

Their dipping freezer now holds 16 flavors for customers to choose from, and typically there are 4-5 additional flavors in the back freezer.

The outdoor seating is on the north side of Lu’s Ice Cream Shop.

An outdoor eating area has been added, and on-site seating to watch a baseball/softball game across the street at Fisher Park, and starting in July, more variety of foods were added to the menu.

Bleachers on the south side of Lu’s Ice Cream Shop face the ball field at Fisher Park.

“It’s been a gradual process opening and adding more items to the menu, because I was teaching full time until May,” said Nikki Regan, the manager.  Regan is a former special education teacher for Fort Scott School District.

Manager Nikki Regan looks over an announcement about Dolly Day, which was  on September 25,

The shop now offers sandwiches, nachos, loaded dogs, and paninis.

Now more food options are in the works.

“We are adding more quick lunch options with high schoolers in mind,” she said. “We’d love for Lu’s to become a regular lunch spot for them during open lunch. A place where they can grab something quick and good, enjoy a little ice cream if they want, and still have time to get back to school.”

“We are listening to what they want and continue to add items based on their feedback.”

Homemade soups, mac and cheese, loaded mac and cheese, along with pretzel bites are coming soon, she said.

Regen leads a crew of 20 employees-young adults and high school students, some with unique abilities.

At the heart of our mission is inclusion — we proudly employ individuals with disabilities, offering meaningful opportunities that build confidence, dignity, and purpose. Every scoop supports a place where everyone belongs, and every visit helps our team shine. Come enjoy great ice cream while making a difference right here at home!- From the shop’s Facebook page.
From the shop’s Facebook page.

The adult shift leader does most of the cooking and is helped by the others with food prep, bussing tables, cleaning the shop, and scooping Blue Bell Ice Cream.

The address is 523 S. Main, and the business can be contacted at 620.418.4288.

From the shop’s Facebook page.

Hours are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Sunday from 2-7 p.m. Closed on Mondays.

“When the weather gets cooler, we will close an hour earlier,” she said.

The Library Speakeasy

Food can also be delivered to another business in the building that owner’s, Lu and Al Niece, opened in July.

The Library is a 1920s-themed hidden speakeasy, tucked away in the basement beneath Lu’s Ice Cream.

A speakeasy bar, in essence, is an establishment inspired by the secretive drinking venues that proliferated across the United States during the Prohibition era. These bars typically feature a clandestine entrance, often concealed behind an unassuming facade—such as a wall of books, a telephone booth, or even blending seamlessly within a retail storefront, according to https://www.restaurantware.com/blogs/bar-management/what-is-a-speakeasy

https://fortscott.biz/news/grand-opening-ribbon-cutting-the-library-speakeasy-july-9

Enter through the black door off the 6th Street stairs on the building’s south side. The first room resembles a quiet library filled with books, but walking past the bookshelves at the end reveals a hidden door that opens into a cozy, vintage-inspired cocktail lounge.

One of The Library’s alcoholic drink offerings. From its Facebook page.
Lu’s Ice Cream Shop is at the corner of 6th and Main Street;  enter through the  6th Street stairs entrance. The Nieces have an apartment and a rental on the second floor of the building. In the basement is The Library speakeasy. This photo was taken in January 2026.

 

 

 

Business, Fort Scott, Health Care

Clifton Chiropractic Offers New Service: Hydro-Massage

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From left: Emily Norris, chiropractic assistant, Dr. Ethan Couch, Dr. Kaylee Clifton, and Angie Trim, office manager. The team at Clifton Chiropractic.

Dr. Kaylee Clifton is expanding the treatments Clifton Chiropractic LLC offers its clients.

In late August, she purchased a hydro-massage bed.

The hydro-massage bed is in a treatment room at the business just off Hwy. 69 on Third Street.

“The hydro treatment has been going well,” Dr. Clifton said. “It’s a good added treatment to relax and help with muscle and joint pain.”

“You can do this before or after a treatment, or just walk in,” said Angie Trim, office manager. “It may be eligible for a Flexible Spending Account or Health Savings Account, you have to check in with the plan administrator.”

The treatment was at first located at Spoiled Brat Salon, and Heather Engstrom, the owner, “reached out to us.  Several of our chiropractic patients were using it there,” said Trim.

The cost is $20 for 20 minutes of hydro-massage in the lounge chair.

During the week of September 21, high school or community college athletes get 1/2 price off the hydro-massage treatment.

Other services

The price list at Clifton Chiropractic.

Both Dr. Couch and Dr. Clifton provide traditional chiropractic adjustments, and they provide other services as well.

“Dr. Couch does the dry needling treatment service,” Clifton said.

Dry needling is a technique where a very small, thin needed is used to release tight muscle knots and help reduce pain. It helps muscles relax, improves blood flow, and allows the body to heal better. It targets specific tight or irritated muscles, according to information provided by Clifton.

Dr. Clifton does acupuncture, a treatment that uses very thin needles placed at specific points on the body to help reduce pain, improve energy flow, and support the body’s natural healing process. It’s based on traditional Chinese medicine and focuses on energy pathways in the body, while dry needling targets tight muscles directly, according to information from Clifton.

Dr. Clifton is also a practitioner in allergy elimination, in a technique known as NAET.

NAET is a mild, non-invasive, gentle energy balancing procedure.

She is also doing vagus nerve resets (restoring healthy rhythm and responsiveness) with acupuncture.

Fees.
Clifton Chiropractic is located on Third Street, just off of Hwy. 69. The address is 203 E. Third. Contact the office at 620.644.5000.

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

The Cornerstone Hosts the Weekly Chamber Coffee on Sept. 17

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Chamber Coffee to be Hosted by The Cornerstone

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites Chamber members and the community to Chamber Coffee hosted by The Cornerstone tomorrow morning, Thursday, September 17, at 8 a.m. at 2 Old Fort Blvd. in Fort Scott. The Cornerstone is located in the same building as Better in Bourbon Boutique.

The event will introduce new Chamber member, The Cornerstone, a business center offering professional office suites for local entrepreneurs and businesses. The suites include utilities, high-speed internet, secure 24-hour access, dedicated parking, and shared amenities.

Guests will have the opportunity to tour the space, meet the owners, network with members of the community, and enter a drawing for a door prize. Chamber Coffee is open to Chamber members and the public.

For more information about Chamber Coffees or other Chamber events, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit fortscott.com.

***

Business, Clothing, Fort Scott

Billy Webster and His Shirt Shack: 50 Years in Business

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Billy Webster has owned and operated the Shirt Shack for 50 years in the same location, 11 East 18th Street, Fort Scott.

The Shirt Shack is having a sale this weekend to celebrate 50 years in business, and everyone is invited to the business milestone anniversary party.

There is a special sale inside the store today and Saturday, September 12, after the store closes, there will be a street dance.

A  band,  Shades of Blue, will be performing live, so bring lawn chairs and get ready for an evening of music and dancing!

The street in front of Shirt Shack, at 11 East 18th Street, will be blocked off with plenty of room to sit, celebrate, and hit the dance floor from 7 to 10 p.m.

Food and drinks from Cohn’s Cafe will be available for purchase, and Tiger Ice will be serving sno-cones and shaved ice.

 

Billy Webster began his clothing business 50 years ago, 1976,  and has no thoughts of retiring.

“In high school, I worked for a company that sold car wax at car shops. At the shows, I would see T-shirt sellers making money.”

He graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1975.

“I was 17 years old, didn’t know what I was doing and didn’t have a business plan back then.”

“I got a deal on a printing machine and got a bunch of print designs and began printing.”

“I started merchandising for bands, Aerosmith and ZZ Top, but it got too crazy…I would come back here to reset.”

The shop he began his business was at the same site where he does business today.

“it was an old beauty shop. 15 foot by 12 foot. I covered the walls with gunny sacks. I started printing new T-shirt designs. At one time, I had 400 designs.”

He has added to that original building and expanded his products.

Now he sells stylish shirts, jeans, and sportswear in addition to the T-shirts.

Cinch, Red Dirt, Ariat brands, among others.

“Fifteen years ago I went into Western Wear. We were a surf store, but nobody surfs in Kansas. There are a few cowboys here, though.”

For Webster, the best thing about being a business owner in Fort Scott: the people.

“You meet a lot of great people. When it’s your own business, you put your energy into it, and you meet great people.”

Webster has no plans to retire.

“What would I do?” he asked.

The store has four employees and is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and can be contacted at 620.223.4680.

 

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

4-State Insurance Agency Opens in Downtown Fort Scott

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4-State Insurance Agency opened the Fort Scott office on August 19, 2026.

A new insurance agency has opened a store front in historic downtown Fort Scott.

Leah Smith is the owner of the 4 State Insurance Agency, Lisa Schossow is the Senior Agent who oversees the Farm and Ranch Division; Dan Shireman is the Agency Development Director; and Josie King is the Farm and Ranch Service Advisor. All were born and raised in the Girard area.

Smith has an office in Overland Park, which opened about 15 years ago, and she opened an office in her hometown of Girard eight years ago.

The agency opened shop at the corner of Wall and Main Street on August 19.

Josie King, left, is a farm and ranch service agent, Lisa Schossow is the senior farm and ranch agent.

 

“We thought Fort Scott would be a perfect location between Overland Park and Girard. Leah has always wanted to open another office here it was just waiting for the right timing,” said Schossow. “We found the perfect office location in downtown Fort Scott and are excited to be a part of the happening downtown area. We can’t wait to be involved in community events and support all the area local businesses.”

The 4 State Insurance Agency currently has Sales Advisors, one Commercial Insurance Advisor, three Service Advisors, and a Claims Advisor on staff. “We are looking to hire four full-time people in this office,” Schossow said. “Right now, we are rotating staff from the Girard office.”

“We will be hiring insurance advisors as well as customer service representatives. They will need to hold an insurance license; if they aren’t currently licensed, we will provide resources to pass the tests needed and ongoing training to make sure each advisor is successful.”

The agency provides insurance in the following areas: home, auto, business, crop, livestock, and farm insurance.

“We have a brokerage arm, which gives our team the ability to not only quote through Farmers Insurance, but partner with a variety of insurance carriers to get our clients the best coverage for the right price,” Schossow said. “We also have a team of licensed crop insurance agents in our Farm & Ranch Division who can provide area farmers with Federal crop insurance, Livestock Risk Protection, and insure their farm operation.”

Hours of operation: 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and weekends by appointment.

For more information, contact 620.670.4590, visit us on Facebook

 

Business, Clothing, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting at Midwest Runway Sept. 10

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Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting hosted by Midwest Runway

Thursday, September 10th | 8 a.m. | Midwest Runway, 6 N. Main St., Downtown Fort Scott

Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting at Midwest Runway

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and the community to attend the weekly Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting at Midwest Runway on Thursday, September 10th at 8 a.m. The event will be held at 6 N. Main St. in Downtown Fort Scott. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to enter a door prize drawing.

Owner Maria Morris recently relocated Midwest Runway from Nevada, Missouri, to Downtown Fort Scott and is celebrating the boutique’s Grand Opening along with the launch of its Fall 2026 collection, the “Midwest Fall Edit.”

The fall collection is being released in three volumes on September 1st, September 10th, and September 22nd, the first day of fall. The collection features new seasonal styles and an expanded size range from XS to 3X. Fort Scott customers will also have an exclusive opportunity to see and shop select new arrivals before they are released online.

In addition to boutique fashion, Midwest Runway offers custom DTF transfers and custom shirts. Customers can provide their own designs or work with Midwest Runway to create something custom.

Midwest Runway has a variety of activities planned throughout the month, including special deals, discounts, giveaways, and more. Follow Midwest Runway on social media for new arrivals, upcoming specials, and the latest details.

The Chamber will conduct a ribbon-cutting during the September 10th Chamber Coffee to officially celebrate Midwest Runway’s Grand Opening and welcome Maria and the boutique to the Fort Scott business community.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at 620-223-3566, visit 231 E. Wall St., or go to FortScott.com.

Click here for the Midwest Runway Facebook Page!

Midwest Runway

Business, Fort Scott

Re: freshed Salon and Spa Expands and Moves Shop

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{Re Freshed} Salon and Spa has a new, expanded building at 102 S. Judson.


Business owner and aesthetician Delane Godden has moved to a new location, 102 S.Judson, and is open for business as of September 1.


“We have grown significantly and needed a bigger space,” Godden said. The building has 3,500 square feet of space.


The building, at 102 S. Judson, was at one time Fort Scott Family Physicians, then Reynold Law Firm, she said.

In addition to the five technicians already at {Re:freshed} Salon & Spa , she has added another aesthetician to her team, Meghan Owenby, who will specialize in headspa services and facials as well.

Godden started her aesthetician business in the Lyons Mansions, then moved to the Five Corners Strip Mall, just off of Highway 69 in 2016.

Delane Godden with eight month old son, Jagger.

Julie Daly has been a provider of massage therapy and nail/pedicure technician services at the salon/spa for nine years. She can be reached at 620.215.3436

Kayla Greenway has provided manicures/pedicures, eyelash services and spray tans for eight years at the spa, contact her at  620.363.0195

Bailey Hall has been a hairstylist for six years there; contact:  620.215.0107

Owenby recently started as a second aesthetician; contact: 620-215-6987

 

Dr. Saeid from Kansas City has been providing injectable cosmetic services on weekends at the spa for about one year, and has 20 years of experience in aesthetics. Contact “In Town Aesthetics by MD”  at 913-602-6265

Cali Emerson is a hairstylist specializing in hair extensions and is also a receptionist, and has been with Re: freshed Spa for a few months.

Heather Jackson has been a receptionist for two years.

Godden can be contacted at 620.215.269

The spa is open Monday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Saturday hours are undetermined at this time.


Godden has created a brand of skin care products that is comprised of plant-based ingredients including perfumes and hand sanitizers, and facial products.

“We also have a line of laundry detergent, multi-purpose cleaning spray, hand soaps and room and linen sprays, as well as Bathhouse Trading Co. products and several skincare and body care line options as well,” she said.

One of a kind greeting cards are for sale by Laura Garzone and Cindi Lipe.


Other retail items include hair clips/scrunchies, belt bags, and insulated tumblers etc.

Services provided


Massages starting at $55


Hair cuts starting at $20


Facials starting at $75


Spray tans-$35


Make-up sessions: $40


Manicures starting at $30, pedicures at $50.


Waxing starting at $5

Brow tint and shape: $20

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee Hosted by Bourbon County Monitor, Aug. 27

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Chamber Coffee

Thursday, August 27th
8am

@ Common Ground Coffee Co.
12 E. Wall St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to attend this week’s Chamber Coffee hosted by The Bourbon County Monitor. The coffee will be held at Common Ground Coffee Co., 12 E. Wall St., on Thursday, August 27th, at 8 a.m.

Launched just five months ago, the Bourbon County Monitor was created to provide timely and reliable local news to Bourbon County and the surrounding community. In a time when social media, special interests, and opinion can often blur the line between commentary and reporting, the Monitor was founded with a focus on delivering facts and keeping the community informed.

Since launching, the Bourbon County Monitor has continued to grow its readership and coverage of local news. The publication recently introduced a subscription paywall, with most articles now available to subscribers for $7.50 per month, or about 25 cents per day. Op-eds, columns, and select features will remain available outside the paywall, with additional new features planned for the future.

Guests attending Chamber Coffee will have an opportunity to meet members of the Bourbon County Monitor team, including Co-Editor and Business Manager Curtis Major, new reporter Carley Horton, and mentor and occasional columnist Millie Lipscomb.

The Monitor will also share updates on what is ahead for the publication, including plans for an upcoming sponsorship push and ways local businesses and community members can support local journalism.

Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, along with a door prize drawing.

For more information about Chamber Coffees or other Chamber events, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit fortscott.com.

The Bourbon County Monitor Facebook Page

Bourbon County Monitor

Business, Exercise

Fall Classes Starting in Self-Defense at The Watchmen Brazilian Jiu Jitsu

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Noah Terry. Submitted photo.

 

Noah Terry opened a martial arts business on August 1 in the former St. Andrews Episcopal Church at 123 S. National Avenue.

Terry defines Jiu Jitsu as submission grappling.

“Imagine a martial art built on pure human mechanics, where brain beats brawn almost every single time. Brazilian Jiu Jitsu gives you the ultimate equalizer: a proven system of leverage, movement, and control that allows a smaller, calmer person to effortlessly neutralize a larger attacker without ever throwing a single punch.”

“All while inside a community of training partners who push you to get 1% better every single day. Whether you’re looking to get into the best shape of your life or master a real-world chess match on the mats, Jiu Jitsu delivers skills that stick with you for a lifetime.”

 

“The Watchmen Brazilian Jiu Jitsu is stepping up its community outreach in Fort Scott, introducing dynamic new programs built to give local residents of all ages practical skills and confidence,”  Terry said in a press release.

Founded by Terry, the academy was established after he recognized a need in the community for a team- like martial arts experience.

 Terry is certified in defensive tactics through the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office and brings a tactical, real-world perspective to the mat, according to the press release.

“What started as a vision quickly took root thanks to a strong core of dedicated men who bought into the mission of building a grounded, supportive, and resilient martial arts family.”

“We built this academy to be a place where people can gain real-life skills, physical strength, and unshakeable confidence,” says Terry. “Whether you’re a parent wanting your child to be bully proof, or a woman looking to learn essential self-defense, or a father who wants to prepare himself to defend his family, our goal is to serve and strengthen Fort Scott.”

“The ‘we’ in my statement is the community of guys that have surrounded me and supported me. They are the building blocks of this business, and I am forever grateful to them,” he said.

This fall, The Watchmen BJJ is highlighting two upcoming opportunities. To join the event, go to the event page on Facebook and select ” Going ” to RSVP:

“All you need is a $10 entry fee! A T-shirt and shorts, and an excitement to learn! “
Submitted graphic.

Women’s Only Intro to Jiu Jitsu Seminar

“Designed specifically for women with zero prior experience, this beginner-friendly workshop focuses on practical self-defense techniques in a safe, supportive environment.”

• Date: Wednesday, August 26th

• Time: 5-6  p.m.

• Focus: Core self-defense fundamentals, building functional strength, and empowering personal safety.

• Registration is on the Watchmen’s event page.

Submitted graphic.

Back to School Youth Special (Ages 5–12)

“Timed with the new school year, this youth program helps kids develop physical health alongside lifelong character habits.”

• Focus: Bully proof self-defense, respectful discipline, physical fitness, and positive peer interaction.

• Goal: Giving kids the confidence and physical tools to navigate the school year safely and successfully.

Contact & Registration:

• Location: 123 South National, Fort Scott, KS, 66701

• Action: To reserve a spot for the seminar or inquire about youth enrollment, message or call The Watchmen BJJ directly today @913-475-4321.

Bourbon County, Business

Hope Grows Here Fundraiser for Farmers in Medical Crisis is August 29

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The Meech family in 2016. J.W., Marita, Jim and Elizabeth. Submitted photo.

In 2024, a local foundation was created to assist farmers when in a medical crisis.

The Agri-Med Crisis Foundation is a Bourbon County-based 501(c)(3) nonprofit that serves eligible farmers and ranchers experiencing an unexpected medical crisis.

Submitted graphic.

The third annual fundraiser event-called Hope Grows Here- is August 29 at Memorial Hall, located at 1 East Third Street, Fort Scott. The event starts at 6 p.m. with a cash bar and a professional boot shine station.

The $20 buffet meal follows, along with the raffle, recipient
introductions, and live auction.

Graphic from the organizations Facebook page.

Advance buffet meal purchase is encouraged to help with the meal count, according to a press release.

A limited number of meals may also be purchased at the door.

Advance meal purchases are available through the Facebook
event page or the Event page at agrimedcrisis.org.

The event is free to attend and open to all ages.

 

About the Foundation

 Jim Meech Agri-Med Crisis Foundation, Inc. | D/B/A Agri-Med Crisis Foundation is an approved 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.

The foundation’s mission statement: We provide immediate gift assistance to eligible farmers and ranchers within the first 30 days of an unexpected medical crisis.

Recipient Eligibility Requirements
● Working Farmer or Rancher
Agri-Med gives aid to working farmers and ranchers. The person experiencing the unexpected medical crisis may be the primary farmer or rancher or a spouse who is actively involved in the
farming or ranching operation.
● Income Requirement — 50% of Income from Agriculture
At least 50% of the applicant’s income must come from farming or ranching. The applicant may be required to provide proof of income.
● Crisis Window — Crisis Within the Last 30 Days
The application or referral must be submitted within the first 30 days of the unexpected medical crisis.

Agri-Med currently serves farmers and ranchers in Bourbon, Linn, Anderson, Allen, Neosho, and Crawford counties in Kansas. Applications are not limited to these counties.

Agri-Med’s board will review all applications submitted.

Board of Directors
● Marita Meech, President
● JW Meech, Vice President
● Elizabeth Meech, Secretary
● Diana Yeager, Treasurer
● Angela Ragland, Board Member

Applications are available at agrimedcrisis.org under Refer a Farmer or Rancher. The application may be completed online or downloaded. Completed applications are reviewed by Agri-Med’s board.

Agri-Med is funded through individual donations, support from area businesses and organizations, and fundraising events such as the annual fundraiser.

A farmer or rancher may apply for themselves, or someone else may refer them. A spouse, family member, friend, neighbor, healthcare provider, agriculture organization, clergy, lender, Extension
agent, or another concerned person may begin the referral process.

Visit agrimedcrisis.org and select Refer a Farmer or Rancher. The application may be completed online or downloaded. Completed applications are reviewed by Agri-Med’s board.

How can someone donate or get involved?

Visit the Ways to Give page at https://agrimedcrisis.org/ways-to-give/
Email info@agrimedcrisis.org
Call 620.224.3313, or attend the fundraiser.

 

Agri-Med currently serves Bourbon, Linn, Anderson, Allen, Neosho, and Crawford counties in Kansas, but applications are not limited to those areas.

History

 

Marita and Jim Meech in 2019. Submitted photo.

 

The following is from the organization’s website, written by Marita Meech.

“On November 20, 2018, an unexpected medical crisis changed our family and our farm overnight when it was discovered my husband, Jim Meech, had a massive brain tumor. Crops were still in the field, cattle needed to be brought home for the winter, and both of our children lived more than eight hours away. We needed help.

 

“After a nearly 12-hour surgery and weeks of waiting for pathology results, Jim was diagnosed with gliosarcoma, a terminal brain cancer. He passed away on September 2, 2019.

 

“While Jim and I were planning his funeral together, he told me he wanted the memorial donations used to ‘help the guys around here.’ At the time, I thought that meant helping a few local farmers and ranchers. I had no idea where that simple statement would eventually lead.

 

“I made two promises to Jim. The first was that the farm would continue. The second was to find a way to help farmers and ranchers. The kids and I kept that second promise by creating Agri-Med Crisis Foundation in June 2024.

 

“Agri-Med was not born in a boardroom. It grew from what our farm family lived through firsthand—the uncertainty, hard decisions, and chaos that can follow an unexpected medical crisis.

 

“Donors, businesses, volunteers, and communities make that work possible. Agri-Med helps ease immediate needs so farmers and ranchers have time to step back and take a deep breath during those first 30 days.

 

“What began as a promise to Jim became Agri-Med’s mission. We keep that promise, one farmer or rancher at a time.”

 

The Agri-Med Crisis Foundation was created in June 2024; in July 2024, the group had its first fundraiser.

“On  October 1, 2024, we were able to gift/assist an area farmer,” Meech said. “To date, we have aided nine farmers and ranchers.”

 

 

 

 

Business, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee & Ribbon Cutting: Bolt Bevs + Bites, Aug. 20

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Ribbon Cutting Celebration and Chamber Coffee – Bolt Bevs + Bites, August 20th, 8am, 1808 S. National Ave.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and the community to attend the weekly Chamber Coffee and Ribbon Cutting at Bolt Bevs + Bites on Thursday, August 20th, starting at 8 a.m. The event will be held at 1808 S. National Ave., in the former Taco Tico building.

Bolt Bevs + Bites is one of Fort Scott’s newest businesses and a new member of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce. Guests are encouraged to attend, meet the Bolt team, learn more about the new business, and help officially welcome them to the Fort Scott business community.

Bolt Bevs + Bites offers a wide variety of handcrafted beverages, including coffees, energy teas, smoothies, dirty sodas, slushies, and more. Whether customers are looking for their morning coffee, an afternoon pick-me-up, or a fun specialty drink, Bolt offers something for a variety of tastes.

The Chamber will hold a Ribbon Cutting during the August 20th Chamber Coffee in celebration of Bolt Bevs + Bites and its opening in Fort Scott.

Bolt Bevs + Bites will also celebrate its official Grand Opening on Saturday, August 22nd, giving the community another opportunity to stop by, explore the menu, meet the Bolt team, and help celebrate the opening of this new Fort Scott business.

Bolt Bevs + Bites – Pumpkin Is Here! Seasonal drinks including Pumpkin Chai Latte, Louisburg Cider, Pumpkin Spice Latte, Louisburg Cider Slush, Pumpkin Pie Frappe, and Crispy Apple Redbull.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at 620-223-3566, stop by 231 E. Wall Street, or visit FortScott.com.

Visit the Bolt Co. Facebook Page for more details.

Business, Fort Scott

Large Solar Battery System Is In Place at SeKan Printing

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Submitted photo of  SEK Printing, Fort Scott’s newest solar energy system.

A new solar energy system was completed at Sekan Printing Company, 2210 S. Main on August 5.

“We just finished commissioning the largest solar-battery system in Southeast Kansas — right here in Fort Scott at Sekan Printing,” said Daniel Zywietz, with SEK Solar.

Daniel Zywietz.

“300 kW of solar plus 240 kWh of battery storage, cutting their demand charges.” said Zywietz.

The process

“Last October, Justin’s cousin put us in touch. Justin had a very high demand charge from Evergy and wanted to know if anything could be done about it. We spent a month or two looking into it and found the real problem was his demand peaks — short, heavy stretches where his power use spikes. A battery handles peaks well, but it can’t carry a long peak on its own. So the answer was solar and battery together.”
The presses at SeKan run from 5:30 in the morning to 3:30 in the afternoon, five days a week, according to a press release from SEK Solar. The heaviest draw does not come from the presses themselves. It comes from drying. Full-color work means laying ink down in layers and curing each layer before the next one goes on, and that pulls hard and steadily for half an hour at a time, with bigger draws on top of it. A good share of it happens early, before the sun is high. The solar makes the power. The battery holds it and puts it out across those long, heavy stretches. Together they match the way the plant actually runs.
That matters on a commercial power bill. Businesses on Evergy’s medium and large general service rates pay for the electricity they use, and they also pay on the heaviest half-hour they hit in the month. That peak charge can be most of the bill. A system with solar and storage together can bring both down.
The project took bout nine to ten months start to finish, he said.  “We put the battery in first, at the end of last year, since it tackled the demand charges right away. The solar took longer: Evergy approvals, a cold first quarter, and a lot of integration. It’s a complex system, with battery inverters, batteries, solar, and a separate meter monitoring the whole thing.”
About ten people helped with the project.
“The mechanical crew installing solar on the roof, the electricians on the ground, and the controls and programming folks. Not all at once, but roughly ten involved overall, ” he said.
There were federal tax credits for the project.
” For commercial and industrial systems, the federal tax credit is still in place — 30% of the system cost — and businesses can also depreciate the system on an accelerated schedule, which adds up to a significant additional write-off. Some projects can qualify for extra credit on top through domestic-content and energy-community bonuses.
“One timing note worth knowing: a commercial system started now needs to be up and running by the end of 2027 to capture the credit, so this is the window.
“On the residential side, the federal tax credit ended December 31, 2025, so there’s no longer a federal credit for homeowners — home systems now stand on their own economics and the value of battery backup.”

Other Fort Scott businesses that have gone solar with SEK Solar:

– 110 South Main / Cohn’s Cafe (Kathy and Tracy Dancer)
– Great Expectations, (Matthew Wells)
– Hole in the Wall Liquor (Roy Hoehner)
– Sekan Printi