Laree + Co., a new children’s store in Fort Scott, began because of Alivia Kraft’s daughter.
“Lillian was diagnosed with Trisomy 18 at 27 weeks gestation but she did not let her diagnosis stop her,” Alivia said. “Despite being given a 5% chance of surviving to her first birthday, Lils overcame more than most people do in a lifetime and we were blessed with four breathtaking years with her.”
Trisomy 18 is a condition that causes severe developmental delays due to an extra chromosome 18, according to the Mayo Clinic website.
Lillian Kraft. Submitted photo.
“She was the most beautiful, amazing, positive, and determined person I know,” her mother said. “To know her really was to love her. Lillian has inspired me to step out of my comfort zone and do something I’ve always dreamed of doing—starting a brand!”
“Because Trisomy 18 has impacted my life so much, part of my brand’s mission is to spread awareness by naming our items or collections after a medically complex warrior or angel (child),” Kraft said.
The business opened online in November 2018 and the storefront at 3 S. National Avenue, Fort Scott, opened in December 2020.
Laree + Co is located at the corner of Wall Street and National Avenue in Fort Scott. Submitted photo.
The business strives to produce beautiful, high quality clothes and more, for children of all abilities.
New in 2023: the majority of Laree+ Co collection have been hand illustrated and are exclusive to the business.
Alivia Kraft, owner of Laree + Co, located at 13 S. National Avenue. Submitted photos.
“10% of our profit will be put into the Lillian Rose Foundation, where care packages will be provided to medically complex infants and children, bereavement gifts to angel mamas, and making donations to hospitals close to our hearts,” Kraft said.
Jan Hedges, owner of Hedghog INK, opened the bookstore in October 2018, with her husband Dick, at 16 S. Main.
“Both Dick and I loved books,” Jan said. “Anytime we traveled we always went to a bookstore. I thought it would be neat to work in one. We had a lot of books at home we needed to do something with.”
“Dick was very supportive of Fort Scott and was sad to see the downtown with hardly any businesses,” she said. “We started talking and, well, instead of someone else doing something, maybe we needed to do something.”
“We started looking at storefronts downtown,” she said. “I talked with the city staff and found that Jared Leek was looking for someone to rent this building.”
“Dick and I had both retired three times, and then we opened this bookstore,” Jan said. “We took the leap.”
And so the business venture began in October 2018.
Jan and Dick Hedges, owners of Hedgehog.INK, stand in front of the store when it opened in October 2018.Dick Hedges, was a co-owner of Hedgehog.INK, and the unofficial greeter to the store until his death this year.
“Dick died March 11, 2022,” Jan said. “He was the official greeter.”
The Business Has Grown
In the four years since opening, Jan has doubled the size of the store, finding space to rent behind 14 S. Main and a doorway entry to the space opened up.
“The added space we call the Great Room, we rent out, after hours to local groups,” she said. “PEO, the Garden Club, a magazine club have used the space.”
In this space also is a mezzanine type area.
“The reading loft is good for small groups,” she said. “High school, college kids study there, moms and their children sometimes go to read books.”
Coffee and tea are available for free, for those who want to sit a spell.
Employees
Currently there are four part-time employees at Hedgehog INK.
Sheryl Bloomfield has worked at the store since its opening and her specialty is decorating the windows at the front of the store.
Lynn Pallaske is in charge of their social media marketing.
Rylan Mason is a high school student and Casey Lewis was a customer who was “here all the time, so we asked her if she’d help us out.”
They all do the work of the store, processing donated books, shelving, working as cashier, etc.
People can call to see if the store has a certain book in stock.
“If we don’t have a book, we can try to order for people,” she said.
Book Offerings
Children’s books and history books are the store’s best sellers.
Lynn Pallaske, left and Jan Hedges stand in front of the mural that directs children to a reading room just for them.
There is a section for local authors in all genres.
Hedgehog INK has a local authors section.
The list of local authors: Cathy Werling, Evelyn Kalvelage, Carol Russell, Sally Freeman Jadlow, Joyce Love, Rick Mayhew, Bourbon County Historical Preservation Association Books, Ann Miesner, Martie Wells-Smith, Jane Tucker, Mary Barbara McKay, Gerri Hilger, Kay Large, J. Speer, Rogena McPherson, Nanette Holloway, R.J. Thesman, Sally Smith, Barbara Ramsey, Marvin Ramsey, George Proctor and Ann Joyner.
“We have Writers Wednesday, a group that meets from 1 to 3 p.m. every week and recently hosted a writers seminar,” Jan said.
Story time at the store is starting again after a hiatus because of the COVID 19 Pandemic.
“It’s the first Saturday of each month in the reading loft area,” she said.
Fort Scott has been so generous in donating books to the book store, that during November and December they are not accepting donations.
They have over 30,000 books.
Other Products Are For Sale
In addition, the store sells local products such as goat milk lotions and lavender products, handmade handbags, photo cards, arts and crafts materials, games and puzzles, journals, chocolates and more.
Hours are Monday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. They are open by appointment at other times.
Walmart Provides $3,500 Grant to Bourbon County EMS to address the need for workout equipment for employees.
Grant Presented to Bourbon County EMS During a Check Presentation Ceremony at 405 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Fort Scott, KS October 18, 2022– Walmart announced today a $3,500 grant to Bourbon County Emergency Medical Services to address the need for workout equipment for employees. The grant was presented to Paramedic Supervisor Jon Lowery and EMS Director Teri Hulsey at a check presentation ceremony at Bourbon County EMS, 405 Woodland Hills Blvd, Fort Scott, KS 66701. The grant was facilitated by Bourbon County Regional Economic Development, Inc.
Each year, Walmart U.S. stores and clubs award local cash grants ranging from $250 to $5,000. These local grants are designed to address the unique needs of the communities where they operate. For Walmart of Fort Scott, it’s about making sure our local EMS has access to the tools and equipment needed to keep our community members safe, including Walmart employees and shoppers. The mission of Bourbon County EMS is to provide a 24-hour operation to reduce the loss of life and property and to protect the environment. The highest priority is to protect Bourbon County residents from all hazards by providing and coordinating resources, expertise, leadership and advocacy through a comprehensive, risk-based emergency preparedness program of mitigation, management, response and recovery.
Through the grant, EMS will purchase a weight bench, barbells and plates, a dumbbell set, a squat cage, a bike and a treadmill. Having this grant allows equipment to be purchased without using funds from Bourbon County or Fort Scott.
Supervisor Jon Lowery states that EMS is a physically demanding job, and it is imperative that employees have access to equipment that allows them to be in top physical shape. Staying in top physical condition reduces injuries that could be sustained by crew or patients while moving or lifting patients, stretchers, equipment or other activities that could present in crisis situations such as fire or car accidents.
Bourbon County EMS has responded to 1,927 calls so far this year. These calls range from 911, transfers and dry runs.
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About Philanthropy at Walmart
Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are committed to helping people live better through philanthropic efforts that draw on the strengths of Walmart in the arenas of sustainability, economic opportunity, and community. As part of our commitment to creating a more sustainable food system worldwide, Walmart and the Walmart Foundation are leading the fight against hunger in the United States. They recently exceeded a $2 billion goal to fight hunger one year ahead of schedule and have donated more than 1.5 billion pounds of food to those in need across the country. To learn more about Walmart’s giving, visit www.foundation.walmart.com.
Tanya Glessner, owner and stylist of Upper Cut Salon, 408 Jefferson St. has a passion to help those with mental illness.
Upper Cut Salon. Submitted photo.
“This subject is close to my heart,” she said. “I believe many people struggle with this in silence. It takes a great deal of courage to ask for help. It’s important for people to share their experiences so others know they’re not alone and we need to do our part in letting our community know what their resources are so they feel comfortable in reaching out. I also believe many addictions stem from mental health issues due to people attempting to self medicate. So it’s important to take prevention measures before things cycle out of control.”
She has chosen to donate 100 percent of what she earns this week for haircuts to benefit the Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center.
“This is in honor of mental health awareness month benefiting SEKMHC and the services they provide,” she said. “The fundraiser is October 17th-23rd. 100% of money made from haircuts this week will be donated. I will be taking all donations to Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center on the 24th.”
Glessner’s haircuts are $12 regularly.
“I always run a haircut special on Tuesdays for $10,” she said. “And all veterans and first responders, including police, firefighters, always get $10 haircuts.”
Glessner can be contacted at 620.224.6704.
The shop is open Monday through Saturday by appointment with flexible hours.
“People may also donate NEW shoes, clothing and food items,” Glessner said. “Families that receive services there (SEKMHC) are always in need of shoes, clothing and food. Many of them are low income or special needs.”
Stores will be open late from 5 to 8pm with festive offerings such as pumpkin snacks, hot cider, and a chance to win $100 in Chamber Bucks!
Bids & Dibs will have Cotton Candy by free will donation with proceeds going towards Wreaths Across America.
Hedgehog.INK! Book Store will have additional pumpkin activities, too!
Museum of Creativity will have several craft projects of all different types and skill levels including FREE pencil ghosts and a decorate your own cookie for $1.
A fun and festive way to get out and support local while taking in the season! Find some great deals, see what’s new in apparel and holiday decor!
Join us TOMORROW, October 13th for
Fall Fest in Downtown Fort Scott!
Participating stores include:
Angie Dawn’s Boutique
Barbed Wire & Roses Vintage Market
Bids & Dibs
Hedgehog.INK! Book Store
Museum of Creativity Gift Shop
Sunshine Boutique
Treasure Hunt Flea Market
PICK UP A PUMPKIN BINGO CARD,
shown below, at any participating store shown and get it marked by at least 3 stores ~ turn it in at your last store to be entered in a drawing for $100 in Chamber Bucks!
For those of you who have ever wanted to write a book, there is encouragement coming this weekend.
This Saturday, Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon, Hedgehog INK a bookstore will have a workshop for aspiring book writers.
It’s a two-part writing seminar with publishing and marketing tips for writers in the morning and then meeting local authors in the afternoon.
Publishing and Marketing a Book
The morning seminar presenter, R.J. Thesman, will speak on best practices for publishing a book and the action steps for effective marketing of a book.
Thesman is a certified writing coach, editor, and author of 20 books and 800+articles in various publications, according to a Hedgehog.INK press release. Thesman’swork is included in 14 anthologies, and she is listed in the Who’s Who of Professional Women.Apopularspeakerandteacherfornumerouswriters conferences, Thesman loves to help her clients birth new words and publish their books.
The event is sponsored by the Bourbon County Arts Council, the Wednesday Writers Group,andHedgehog.INK!Bookstore.
Location for the morning event is at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team office at 104 N. National, Fort Scott, KS.
A 2018 photo of the office of the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National, from its Facebook page.
The office is located north of Luther’s restaurant, with public parking available on the east side of National Avenue.Lunch is on your own, with several restaurants within walking distance.
Registration is $40, and junior high, high school and college students are free, but registration is required. Registration forms are available at: Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore 16 S Main, Fort Scott, KS 620–670–2752 [email protected]
Author Book Signing
Local authors will sign and make available their books for sale, which might be a great idea for your Christmas list, according to information from the press release.
In the afternoon there will be multi–author book signing at the Hedgehog.INK bookstore at 16 S. Main from 1:30 to 3 p.m. with featured authors: Brian Allen, Rhonda Hassig, Sally Jadlow, Joyce Love, Rogene McPherson, R.J. Thesman, Jane Tucker and MartiWells–Smith.
Hedgehog.INK, located at 16 S. Main, in historic downtown Fort Scott.
Kathy Dancer stands in front of the Scottish Rite Temple. 110 S. Main, Fort Scott.
Kathy and Tracy Dancer are working to restore the former Scottish Rite Temple building in historic downtown Fort Scott.
“We bought it at the Bourbon County Tax sale in January 2022 for $20,000,” Kathy said. “That’s when we saw the opportunity to purchase it at the sale. We had been trying for years to contact the former owner, who purchased it from the Mason’s.”
The 12,000 square foot building that has been vacant for about 10 years is getting a electric update, Kathy said.
“Kudos to the Masons,” she said. “They took took good care of the building…the water and most of the electric were taken care of.”
The Dancers have plans for a cafe in the area that people might remember as where the Kiwanis and Rotary Clubs prepared and served their meals they sold the public as fundraisers.
Even before that recent use, there was a cafe there.
“The Cohen Cafe, before 1948, had a cafe in the space,” she said.
The Dancers plan to have the cafe open for breakfast and lunch service in that same space, possibly in spring 2023. “We are waiting for state approval for construction to begin.”
“We want to focus on locally produced in the region fruits, veggies and meat as much as possible,” she said.
Kathy Dancer stands in front of the current main entrance of the Scottish Rite Temple. After renovation of the building, there will be other entrances and restored large windows.
They are also planning on having a retail incubator.
“We also hope to put a micro-retail space for 6 to 8 businesses in one large section,” she said. “Handcrafted goods: jewelry, popcorn, custom home decor, furniture (for example). With a central check-out. People won’t have to man their space.”
“I need more approvals for this project,” she said. “It will focus on locally produced goods as much as possible.”
She said her husband is working through the process of getting a distillers license. “To have bourbon crafted and aged in Bourbon County,” she said.
“We are starting with the ground floor first, it will take time,” Kathy said. “I’m guestimating five years to complete.”
The beautiful theater in the building is a question mark.
“We don’t know what we are going to do with the theater,” she said.
Lindsay Madison, standing right, leads discussion at the Fort Scott Quarterly Downtown Meet and Greet event on Oct. 4
Downtown Fort Scott has experienced much improvements in the last few years.
Historic buildings have been and are being brought back to life, some for business storefronts and some for residences. There has hardly been a month where there wasn’t a dumpster in front of buildings downtown where construction going on.
All the new businesses and residences create problems that local city, businesses and organizations are working to solve.
At the quarterly Downtown Meet and Greet on Oct. 4, hosted by City State Bank, there was discussion of the downtown parking situation.
The need is real: more available and easily accessed parking for downtown businesses and residents.
The two recently renovated buildings, Union Lofts at 20 S. Main and Fort Scott Lofts at 8 E. First, need approximately 120 parking spaces for residents. In addition there are a growing number of other downtown apartments.
The Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Downtown Division has been having conversations to come up with solutions, Lindsay Madison, executive director of the Chamber said.
“No solution will make everyone happy,” Bailey Lyons, chair of the the division told the attendees. We are looking at the most cost effective ways.”
There is a small unpaved parking lot in back of the Union Lofts, at First and National Avenue that has not been developed, “but funding is not available, is my understanding,” Madison said.
There are currently public parking lots behind Moe’s Breads on National Avenue, south of Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, 201 S. Main and on Skubitz Plaza at the north end of downtown.
Some solutions for the parking situation on Main Street, from information provided by Madison are:
Enforcement of the 2-hour parking that is already in place. The ticket amount is being discussed by the city.
Reinstall parking meters. This is not a popular choice, based on feedback.
Have no parking allowed between the hours of midnight to 6 a.m.
Give designated spots, with car stickers, in downtown area public parking lots for the downtown residents.
Build parking garages large enough to hold all the apartment resident’s cars, business employees cars and overflow parking.
“No solution will make everyone happy,” Bailey Lyons, chair of the the division told the attendees. We are looking at the most cost effective ways.”
For Lyons, the possible solutions are “Divert and assign spots for residents and business employees, and have better signage to identify public parking lots.”
Also on the Downtown Meet and Greet Agenda:
The Fort Scott National Historic Site annual candlelight tour is the first weekend in December, with tickets set to go on sale on November 1.
The annual Downtown Halloween Parade is Oct. 29, with festivities starting at 10 a.m. and the parade at 11 a.m. Hot dogs will be provided after the parade for participants.
Downtown Holiday Open House is Nov. 10-12, with the kick-off event from 5-8 p.m. on Nov. 10.
Small Business Saturday Bonanza in November 26.
Cocoa and Caroling Night Shopping is Friday, December 9 from 5-8 p.m.
Madison listed several business resources available in Fort Scott:
The Dare to Dream Women’s Entrepreneurship Event, today from 5-7 p.m. at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team Office, north of Luther’s BBQ on North National. There will be tips to affording health insurance.
Also at this location is the Small Business Development Center, with Dacia Clark as the contact.
Bourbon County Regional Economic Development offers business entrepreneurship mentoring with Mark McCoy, by appointment.
E-Community Loans are available at 4% for 10 years, minimum loan is $5,000 maximum is $45,000. Contact the Chamber.
Governor Laura Kelly announced that small businesses can now apply to receive COVID-19 Retail Storefront Property Tax Relief. In June, Governor Kelly signed bipartisan House Bill 2136, investing $50 million to help small businesses recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Two downtown building construction updates
Lyons gave an update on the building on the west side of downtown Main Street that she and her husband are renovating.
She said they are working with the state on the historic building which is a slow process, and have addressed structural issues.
“We are going to tackle the first floor first,” she said. “It is a possible build-to-suit for interested businesses.”
Kathy Dancer gave an update on the Scottish Temple that she and her husband have purchased.
She envisions a cafe and retail spaces in the building.
“I am guesstimating 18 months until we get the cafe going,” she said.
There will be a future story on this project on fortscott.biz.
About the host
City State Bank President John Hill told attendees that the bank was chartered in 1920, and in 2018 the downtown branch location was remodeled. They have two locations: 1012 Highway 69 or 202 Scott Avenue Fort Scott. and can be reached at 620-223-1600.
“We are a $55 million dollar institution, with 97% in Bourbon County,” he told the attendees.
