A business space in Historic Downtown Fort Scott is available to rent.
In 2021, Sandra Davis and her husband Donald purchased the former J&W Sport Shop at 20 North Main and were there briefly before moving their businesses to the former Bartlesmeyer Jewelry Store at 1519 S. National in 2022.
20 N. Main is available for new tenants.
“Once we moved into 20 N. Main we realized that we were going to have to renovate quicker than anticipated,” she said. They moved their businesses to another location while renovating.
“We originally were renting 1519 S. National when we first moved in it, but we liked the building so much we purchased it and decided to make it our business location.”
1519 S. National.
The 20 N. Main location, in historic downtown Fort Scott, is now ready for new tenants, following renovations.
“The bottom floor is completely renovated and is ready for tenants,” she said. ” We intend to start on the upper floor soon by turning it into an apartment. It will be an Airbnb or possibly a long-term rental.”
About the businesses
Sandra and Donald Davis.
The Davis’s have their two businesses under one roof.
“I’m Davis Accounting Inc. and his business is Donald D. Davis CPA PA.,” she said. “We jointly own Professional Property Investors LLC which legally owns the buildings.”
Davis Accounting provides full-service bookkeeping and tax return preparation. She started in Arkansas in 2000 and moved to Fort Scott in 2004. Donald’s business formed in 1995.
“Between our two companies, we offer all aspects of bookkeeping; A/P, payroll, payroll taxation and reporting, Bank reconciliations and preparation of financial statements and tax returns,” she said.
Join returning artist Phillip Ortiz for a Pen and Ink and Watercolor Class at The Artificers! Whether you are a beginner at drawing and watercolor or want to grow your skillset, Phillip will show you some exciting techniques for beautifully combining ink and watercolor.
Save the Date for a Summer Sidewalk Sale ~ Downtown & Around in Fort Scott! Enjoy fruity drinks and great deals while supporting local!
Participating Retailers:
110 South Main Mercantile, 110 S. Main St.
Angie Dawn’s Boutique, 108 S. Scott St.
Barbed Wire & Roses, 18 N. Main St.
Be The Light Boutique, 12 N. Main St.
Bids & Dibs, 108 S. Scott St.
Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore, 16 S. Main St.
Laree + Co, 3 S. National Ave.
Museum of Creativity, 102 S. National Ave
Ruddick’s Furniture & Flooring, 117 S. National Ave.
Shirt Shack, 11 E. 18th St.
Sunshine Boutique, 18 E. Wall St.
Bourbon County Democrats will be set up Downtown with an information booth & Chamber Bucks drawing along with Riggs Chiropractic that will be doing free screenings!
There will be Business Bingo where you can pick up a card at any participating store, make a purchase of $5 or more from at least 3 stores during the Summer Sidewalk Sale, get your bingo card marked, and turn in at the third store for a chance to win $50 in Chamber Bucks. Chamber Bucks certificates can be used at over 60 local retailers and restaurants around the community!
A fun time to support local while finding some great sales inside and out of participating merchants! Most stores are open 10am to 5pm, but some hours may vary.
Don’t forget to support the Fort Scott Farmers’ Market which will be open Saturday from 8am-12pm under the Gathering Square Pavilion.
Organized by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce.
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
Attendees of the Downtown Meet and Greet mingle before the meeting begins on July 9 at the Cohn’s Cafe.
Kathy and Tracy Dancer, owners of Cohn’s Cafe, 110 S. Main, hosted the quarterly Fort Scott Downtown Meet and Greet on July 9.
Tracy and Kathy Dancer in the entrance to 110 S. Main, called Mercantile and Market and Cohn’s Cafe.
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce sponsors quarterly events to learn/tell of happenings in the downtown historic district.
Lindsay Madison, the Chamber’s executive director, told of the following upcoming events:
July 13 sidewalk sales-11 stores participating with a Business Bingo, Riggs Chiropractic offering free screenings, and the Bourbon County Democrats with a booth.
August 2-4 is the annual sales tax holiday weekend in Fort Scott.
September 12 is the Fall Fest from 5-8 p.m.
October 26 is the annual Halloween Parade at 11 a.m.
November 7-9 the Holiday Open House with the main kickoff on Thursday from 5-8 p.m.
December 5 is the Christmas Parade at 6 p.m. with the theme “A Storybook Christmas.”
December 6-7 stores are open late for Christmas on the Bricks.
New seasonal downtown light pole banners are being ordered featuring local veterans. The banners will be posted on Memorial Day, July 4th, and Veterans Day at a cost of $300 and the family gets the banner at the end. 30 banners have sold, so far.
There are a few ad spaces available on the Downtown Directory Sign on North Main Street, $100 per year.
The Chamber Golf Classic is this Friday, July 12. Raffle items and gift cards are welcome for this fundraiser for the Chamber.
There will be an Election Candidate Forum on Thursday, July 25 at the Fort Scott High School Auditorium with a meet and greet at 5:30 p.m. and the forum at 6 p.m.
Several business grants are available: e-community with 6% for 10 yrs., $5,000 to $50,000; Grow KS: maximum $100,000+, 4% for 5 yrs., 6% for 10 years; USDA REAP grant for energy efficiency and solar projects (the last round of grants deadline is Sept. 30); and HEAL Grants for downtown businesses.
Superintendent of Fort Scot National Historic Site Jill Jarworski said the fire suppression project is 50 % complete, the Blair House will soon have new siding, the infantry barracks will be renovated, three HVAC units will be replaced, there will soon be more accessibility at the Fort, Candlelight Tours are in the planning stages, the Naturalization Ceremony will be Sept. 20 this year, there is an app “Sunflower Summer” for 3-4th grade students is free and features Kansas attractions.
Downtown Trolley Tours has a new driver, Steve Allmond, with Friday tours on the hour starting at 11 a.m. and ending at 2 p.m.; Saturday hours start at 10 a.m. on the hours. There is a wheelchair lift available and at least 6 persons minimum.
Merita Meech announced her inaugural Jim Meech Agri-Medical Foundation event at Sharkey’s Third Floor on July 27, from 6-8 p.m. She has a web link for the event to help farmers/ranchers in the first 30 days following a crisis.
There will be a craft event at the River Room Event Center at Oak and National Avenue on July 27 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Fort Scott City representative Mary Wyatt said a new name for the golf course will be announced on August 15, a grant has been applied for Memorial Hall, KDOT recently awarded the city money for East National Avenue and the Third Street Park project is nearing completion.
Regional Economic Development Inc. Director Rob Harrington told of the Freeman Hospital opening in April 2025 at the former Mercy site. The health system is going through the Federal licensing process. At the August 2 Chamber Coffee, Kansas Renewal Institute and REDI will give tours of the newly renovated emergency department facility. REDI is having its annual gala on August 3 at the Liberty Theater with a live and online auction to provide scholarships for local high school students. He said in 2025, there will be many construction workers (solar energy) in the county that will need housing, and possibly be shopping and attending events in the county. He encourages welcome packets for them and “they will bring in a huge amount of sales tax.”
Open Mortgage, at Wall and National, has merged and will be getting a new name.
A new business, House of Cottonwood Candles,, there is opening in the former Common Ground building at 116 S. Main.
Jerry Witt, Riverfront Authority Chair, said that Riverfront Park will soon have some new features.
Two Fort Scott Community College Basketball Coaches attending said they are recruiting for the new season.
Konantz Cheney has a new website and can be followed on Facebook.
Madison said she and staff continually get compliments about the downtown area and thanked the downtown businesses.
In June 2025, there will be the all-school Fort Scott High School Reunion events.
The Bourbon County Fair starts next week and Meech encouraged all to walk through the fair and appreciate the effort the FFA and 4H youth have done throughout the year.
Jill Jarowski gets a coffee and sweets provided by Cohn’s Cafe for the event.
Wesley DeHaven, 24, is the owner and coach of the business and last year in June he opened the fitness center on his family’s farm.
On June 10, 2024, he opened the fitness center at 212 E. 1st in Fort Scott.
The BEE Better Health Club is a group fitness studio for women.
Wes DeHaven. Submitted photo.
“I’m a certified group fitness instructor through the National Academy of Sports Medicine. I worked at a CrossFit gym where I began my weight-loss journey and began coaching women’s Boot Camp classes. I’ve been working with clients and coaching classes since November 2022,” he said.
Lisa Ziegler, Eli (Madison’s son), Madison Bruner, and Wes DeHaven, who had just finished their first workout in the new gym. Submitted photo.
“I was initially located southeast of town in a garage on the family farm. The initial plan was to always get in town and be easily accessible to provide my services,” he said.
“As a fat loss and body recomposition coach, all group fitness members receive nutrition coaching,” he said. “I also offer one-on-one coaching services. I run what I call a hybrid model, in-person and remote which makes it easy for me to work with work schedules. In terms of products, I am an authorized retailer for 1st Phorm a supplement company. The most loved products are protein bars, high-protein meat sticks, and protein powders. “
“Inside group fitness we have 16 members and I have another 12 that I currently work with one-to-one,” he said.
Current class times are 7 AM and 5:30 PM.
Text or call DeHaven at (620) 644-8150 or visti the Facebook page: The BEE Better Health Club
Krista Stramel, Rhonda Bowles, Delane Godden, Joe’ Fritter, Jill Ruby, Sami Rogers, Wilma Hibdon, and Paulette Albright pose in a post-workout selfie from an Upper Body Day in the new location.
Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet scheduled for July 9th!
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce announces a Downtown Meet & Greet will be held Tuesday, July 9th from 8:30-9:30 a.m. at Cohn’s Cafe,
110 South Main .
These informal, quarterly meetings are hosted by the Chamber for downtown business owners, representatives, and community members to network and share ideas on events, promotion and anything related to downtown.
Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served.
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Kansas State Director for Rural Development Christy Davis today announced that USDA is partnering with rural Kansans on 23 clean energy projects to lower energy bills, expand access to clean energy and create jobs in rural Kansas communities.
“USDA is committed to expanding modern clean energy systems that strengthen our energy independence,” Davis said. “We are excited to partner with family farms and small businesses to help create good-paying jobs and save rural Kansans money.”
The details of the Kansas projects are:
A $19,088 grant will help Muddy Water Farms LLC of Fort Scott make energy efficient improvements to its operations. The project is estimated to save 44,659 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power four homes.
A $96,112 grant will help purchase and install an 80 kilowatt solar system for Western Supply Co. Inc of Hutchinson. The project is estimated to generate 126,045 kilowatt hours annually and replace 88 percent of the business’s annual energy needs.
A $29,220 grant will help purchase and install a 15 kilowatt solar system for the Bentley Family Irrevocable Land Trust of Gove County. This project will realize $2,231 per year in savings and will generate 24,625 kilowatt hours per year.
A $55,340 grant will help purchase and install a 42.1 kilowatt solar system for Cottonwood Hog Farm LLC of Newton. The project is estimated to generate 65,515 kilowatt hours annually and replace 100 percent of the business’s annual energy needs.
A $53,393 grant will help purchase and install a 36 kilowatt solar array for Outdoor Vision LLC of Newton. The project is estimated to generate 55,819 kilowatt hours and replace 95 percent of its energy use. This is enough electricity to power five homes.
A $15,405 grant will help purchase and install a 10.27 kilowatt solar array for Justin Stithem, a rural small business in Chanute. This project will realize $1,630 per year in savings and replace 100 percent of the business’s annual electrical energy needs.
A $23,035 grant will help purchase and install a 7.9 kilowatt solar array for Timber Rock Properties LLC of Chanute. This project will realize $829 per year in savings and replace 100 percent of the business’s annual electrical needs.
A $19,995 grant will help Ag Strategies of Kansas LLC of Chanute make energy efficient improvements to their ag supply business. The project is estimated to replace 12,840 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power one home.
A $14,985 grant will help ElevenEleven Fresherie LLC of Chanute purchase and install a solar system for their smoothie and juice bar business. The project is estimated to replace 14,377 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power one home.
A $6,912 grant will help Calvin D. Parker of Iola make energy efficient improvements to a green house. The project is estimated to replace 4,116 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power the average home for four months.
A $6,199 grant will help RVH Properties LLC of Dennis, purchase and install a new HVAC system. RVH provides customization of heavy-duty tow vehicles for recreational use. The project is expected to reduce the company’s energy use by 8,140 kilowatt hours, saving the company $1,056 per year in energy costs.
A $71,750 grant will help purchase and install a 48 kilowatt solar system for Salina Diamond Sports LLC of Salina. The project will produce 65,922 kilowatt hours annually and replace 93 percent of the business’s annual energy usage.
A $545,750 grant will help purchase and install a 550 kilowatt solar array for Ohlde Dairy LLC of Linn. The project is estimated to replace 900,033 kilowatt hours per year, which is enough energy to power 83 homes.
A $16,872 grant will help Butler Ranch Operations LLC of Leon purchase a 10.8 kilowatt solar array for their ag operation. The project is estimated to generate 10,843 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power one home.
An $18,415 grant will help Schmidt Family Irrevocable Trust of Burrton purchase and install irrigation equipment for their farm. The project is estimated to save 59,992 kilowatts per year, enough energy to power five homes.
A $14,644 grant will help Mary Hobert LLC purchase and install a 6.6 kilowatt solar array. Mary Hobert operates the 1879 Stone House bed and breakfast along the Flint Hills National Scenic Byway in Cottonwood Falls. The project is expected to replace 8,580 kilowatt hours per year, or 85 percent of their usage. The project is expected to save the company $1,099 per year.
A $20,000 grant will help Lynco Rec DBA Holiday Lanes purchase and install energy efficient LED lighting at its bowling alley in Pittsburg. The project is expected to reduce the company’s energy use from lighting by 65 percent, saving 64,186 kilowatt hours and $6,855 per year in energy costs.
A $69,960 grant will help North Star Feeds LLC purchase and install a 52.8 kilowatt solar array. North Star Feeds is a manufacturer of feed fat blends in Atchison. The project is expected to save 78,017 kilowatt hours of electricity per year, which is 82 percent of its usage and enough electricity to power more than seven homes. The project is expected to save the company $7,900 per year in energy costs.
A $19,773 grant will help Mellowfields Farm LLC of Lawrence purchase and install a 19.4 kilowatt solar array. The project is estimated to save 27,686 kilowatt house per year, enough energy to power two homes.
A $41,178 grant will help purchase and install a 42 kilowatt solar array for Four Streams Dairy Inc. of Hanover. The project is estimated to replace 60,093 kilowatt hours per year, enough energy to power five homes. Four Streams Dairy Inc. currently has two employees.
A $17,700 grant will help purchase and install a 10.56 kilowatt solar array for Gregory Jarrett, a rural small business located in Parsons. This project will realize $1,597 per year in savings and replace 100 percent of the business’s annual energy needs.
A $20,000 grant will help purchase and install an 18.17 kilowatt solar array for One28 Bakes, a bakery located in Oswego. The system is estimated to produce 23,207 kilowatt hours per year, enough electricity to power two homes.
A $15,020 grant will help Prairie Wind Aquatics of Garden City make energy efficient improvements with new insulation and LED lighting. This project will save 2,230 kilowatt hours per year, enough to power one average household for two months
“We are truly thrilled to provide additional support to our country’s small business owners through the Backing Small Businesses grant program, along with our partners at American Express,” said Main Street America President and CEO Erin Barnes. “These grants are no small thing – and will go far in helping our neighborhood and downtown entrepreneurs build capacity, continue to innovate and grow, and make meaningful contributions in their home communities.”
Meet the most recent Backing Small Businesses Grant Recipients:
Check out the calendar below for all events happening this month!
Art Opening and Reception!
July 5th, 2024 @ 6pm, Artist Talk @ 7pm
Christine Raymond
With over three decades of experience in the art world, Christine Raymond is an established figure renowned for her impressionistic style with a contemporary and expressionistic flair. Her artistic
journey is deeply intertwined with her love for plein air painting, a passion she seamlessly integrates with her appreciation for hiking and nature. For Christine, nothing compares to the fulfillment she finds in the midst of nature, painting what she believes to be God’s beautiful creation. Her artwork
reflects this profound connection, capturing the essence of the landscapes she explores with vibrant colors and expressive palette knife work. As a professional artist for over 17 years, Christine actively contributes to the artistic community as a member of NOVA Plein Air Artists, where she paints weekly throughout Northern Virginia. Her talent and dedication have earned her recognition in various plein air competitions and art exhibitions, including receiving Best In Show at
The Light and Shadow: The Essential Elements Exhibit at Artists in Middleburg 2024, placing 3rd at the Art of Great Falls event Paint Great Falls 2023, and winning People’s Choice in Paint! Manassas 2019. Drawing from her upbringing as the daughter of a professional artist, Christine’s artistic journey began at a young age under the guidance of her mother, Mary Reilly. She pursued her passion for art through high school, graduating with art honors, and continued her education at George Mason University. Most recently, Christine completed her Fine Arts degree from the Academy of Art University in
2019 with a focus on Painting and Drawing. Throughout her career, Christine has had the privilege of learning from
esteemed master artists such as Sara Linda Poly, Bethanne Cople, Hai-ou Hou,
Rick Casali, and Michelle Dunaway. Today, she continues to explore new artistic horizons and share her passion for painting as the co-owner of Creative Brush Studio in Historic Manassas, Virginia. For inquiries about Christine Raymond’s artwork or upcoming exhibitions, please contact Christine at [email protected].
Ned DuCharme, a Missouri based artist known for his Neo Impressionistic style, bright colors and unique patterns. Ned’s art tends to spark a deep emotional response, tapping into the audiences inner child. His inspiration derives from a magnification of the everyday. Brought to life by feelings, sensations and sentiment. Capturing the warmth of personal experience.
Ned studied a short stint at the Colorado Institute of Art in Denver Co. Having to push those dreams aside Ned moved back to Missouri where he helped raise a beautiful family. Becoming a construction worker the drive to create never left him. Now 30 years later he purchased property in downtown Hume Mo. where he is rebuilding a 1950s filling station into his studio.
Self taught for the most part. Ned primarily uses oils and acrylics, but loves to experiment with all mediums, not holding himself to any specific creative path.
“I just paint my world, how I feel it.”
Ned Phillip DuCharme
Christine’s Master Artist Classes!
Alla Prima Oil Painting Workshop
Have you always wanted to learn how to paint with oils but they have intimidated you?
Are you self taught and could use some guidance? Do you love oils but want to become
more efficient in your process? If you have answered yes to any of these questions this
workshop is for you!
Learn a more intentional approach to creating artwork using an all at once method
called Alla Prima.
Christine will break down a step-by-step process of paint application
in a simplistic and understandable way. Take the guesswork out of oil paints, I will
explain the concepts behind the methods so that you fully understand “why do oils
behave that way when I do….”
Whether you are a beginner or more advanced there is definitely something for you
because students will work on individual ideas and references.
Students will:
– Discover tricks to planning and figuring out a great composition
– Understand color mixing and paint application
– Learn open and close grisaille to create solid value groupings
– Create one final 6×8 alla prima piece incorporating everything you’ve learned
