Lu Niece stands at the entrance to her new business Lu’s Ice Cream Shop at 6th and Main in Fort Scott in this December 2025 photo.
Starting today, July 1, Lu’s Ice Cream shop, at the corner of 6th and Main Street in Fort Scott, will have a new menu and new hours.
The business owners, Al and Luanna Niece, recently purchased fudge equipment from Perry’s Pork Rinds (Bronson) and will be making fresh fudge and, in addition, will offer ballpark-inspired food: loaded hot dogs, nachos, paninis, and salads.
New hours are Mondays: closed. Tuesday through Thursday: 3-9 p.m.; Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday: 2-7 p.m. They will be closed July 4.
One novel aspect of this business venture is that they employ individuals of all abilities and are committed to creating a workspace where every team member is valued, supported, and empowered to succeed, said Nicole Regan, manager of Lu’s Ice Cream.
Regan is a former special education teacher.
Nichole Regan stands behind the counter at Lu’s Ice Cream shop at 6th and Main Street.
They sell Blue Bell Ice Cream, whose headquarters are in Texas, where the owners, the Nieces, are from.
“The Blue Bell delivery driver said we are the second largest delivery account in this region, second only to Branson, MO,” Regan said.
The response from the community so far has been “incredible”, she said. “The ice cream sales have exceeded our expectations. We are grateful to our customers and community for making this achievement possible.”
The building at 6th and Main was dilapidated until a few years ago, when the Nieces took it on as a project.
Al and Luanna Niece in 2023, outside their new purchase, the building at 6th and Main Street, Fort Scott.
It is ideally located directly across from the ballpark that is used consistently throughout the summer.
The Nieces own Niece Equipment in the city’s industrial park and is a leading manufacturer of custom-built water trucks and fuel lube trucks.
The Fort Scott Farmers Market vendors are planning a party on July 4 at the Gathering Square Pavilion on North National Avenue.
The regular market vendors will be there to purchase from, but in addition, there will be added fun activities for the whole family.
The Gathering Square Pavilion.
“Since Independence Day falls on a Saturday this year, we wanted to make the most of a unique opportunity,” said Stephanie Carrell, secretary of the vendors. “The Farmers Market is already a place where people come together, so adding some patriotic fun felt like a natural fit.”
Join them to celebrate Independence Day with a morning of family-friendly activities and patriotic fun.
“Activities begin at 8:00 a.m. with the ‘Best Cookie of the Market’ Chocolate Chip Cookie Contest, where visitors can participate in a blind taste test and vote for their favorite cookie entry from participating market vendors. Voting will continue until 11:30 a.m., with the Cookie Champion announced at noon.”
All registrations for participating in certain events close on July 2. Find the event on Fort Scott Farmers Market Facebook page or enter at the link listed below.
“At 9:00 a.m., participants of all ages will compete in the Chomp Champion Watermelon Eating Contest, with multiple age divisions and trophies awarded in each group.”
“At 10:00 a.m., the Wheels of Glory Patriotic Parade will invite participants to decorate bikes, wagons, scooters, strollers, wheelchairs, and Power Wheels and show off their patriotic spirit. Spectators will vote to determine the crowd favorite.”
“We were thinking through the pavilion (for the parade). They can circle back along the sidewalk, then park in the center of the pavilion for voting,” she said.
“At 11:00 a.m., teams of up to four people will compete in the Know-It-All Cup Trivia Challenge, featuring questions about Fort Scott.”
“Registration for the scheduled events is free, and trophies and prizes will be awarded. Every participant will receive a prize,” she said.
“Visitors are encouraged to come enjoy the market, cheer on participants, sample cookies, and celebrate the Fourth of July with a morning of fun, friendly competition, and community spirit.”
Fort Scott Farmers Market Association contacts are
President: Lori Hueston and
Secretary: Stephanie Carrell
email: fortscottfarmersmarket@gmail.com
call/text: 620-303-9878
” We hope people will stop by to pick up fresh produce, local meats, sweet treats, and other handmade products for their holiday celebrations, enjoy the festivities, and spend some time visiting with friends and neighbors,” Carrell said. “Celebrating the Fourth of July is about more than fireworks—it’s about community, and we’re excited to give people another way to celebrate together.”
The Kitchen Collective+Collaboration is a modern shared commercial kitchen, retail and event space in historic downtown Fort Scott, at 12 S. Main
The Kitchen Collective+Collaboration is located at 12 S. Main, Fort Scott. From its Facebook page.
They offer grab-and-go meals and cooking classes and can also be privately rented.
Bailey Lyons, Rachel French and Angie Simon are business owners of The Kitchen Collection+Collaborative. . Submitted photo.
The business owners are planning a Summer Social on June 25 from 5 to 8 p.m.
“The Summer Social is designed to showcase the entrepreneurs, food businesses, and local producers that make up the The Kitchen Collective+Collaborative community and will include Crumstead, owned by Stephanie Carell, featuring a selection of her handcrafted baked goods and desserts. Also, The Golden Swan Bakery, owned by Grace French, will offer some of her signature gourmet cookies and sweet treats. BBQ by Jarod Bower, serving up samples of smoked barbecue favorites. Jonny O’s, one of our close collaborators, is featuring items from his popular food truck menu. Branch Coffee, owned by Ken Walker, is serving specialty beverages and sharing information about their local coffee offerings,” French said.
“We’re also excited to feature several local farmers and ranchers whose products are available in The Kitchen’s market area, including FB Farms, Freedom Farms, and Sweet Country Farms. These producers will be sharing information about their farms and locally raised meats and eggs they provide to our community.”
“In addition to meeting the vendors, guests will be able to shop The Kitchen’s market, enjoy door prizes, and take tours of our incubator kitchen facility. This event allows an opportunity to connect directly with the community, share their stories and showcase products they work so hard to create. It’s also to see how local businesses can collaborate and support one another and strengthen our regional food economy.”
The event was created to showcase the businesses that have grown within The Kitchen Collective+Collaborative.
“Many people know us as a place to grab lunch, take a class or host an event; fewer realize that we were established as Southeast Kansas’ first food business incubator,” she said. “Our mission is to help food entrepreneurs start, grow and sustain a successful business by providing a licensed, commercial kitchen space, business support and retail opportunities.”
“We are continuing to develop educational programming, business resources and retail opportunities that help local food businesses reach more customers. We’re working to strengthen relationships with farmers, ranchers and producers so local products are available to our community.”
The Kitchen is currently partnering with Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Kansas Healthy Pathways Program, so those who qualify will be eligible for matching kitchen rental hours, helping reduce the cost of accessing licensed commercial kitchen space. This program helps remove barriers for entrepreneurs, making it easier for them to test ideas, grow production, and build sustainable businesses, she said.
“We hope to welcome additional entrepreneurs into our kitchens, expand our classes and events, and continue building…a hub where food businesses, producers and the community can connect, collaborate and grow together.
Presentation Explores African American Food Traditions in Kansas
Fort Scott, KS. – The Gordon Parks Museum in Fort Scott, Kansas will host “Food for the Journey: Kansas Stories,” an interactive presentation and demonstration by Theressa Rice that will take place on June 19, 2026 at 12:00 p.m. at The Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton St. Members of the community are invited to attend the free event. Contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850 for more information. The event is part of “Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions,” a series of folklife presentations developed by Humanities Kansas recognizing the nation’s milestone 250th anniversary.
This is a free Lunch and Learn event, with drinks and desserts provided.
“Everyone is welcome and encouraged to attend this presentation event to learn more about the Kansas Folklife and the journey of African Americans migration from the south” said Museum Director, Kirk Sharp.
As African Americans made their way to Kansas, what foods came with them? Theressa Rice’s presentation is rooted in stories – stories from her history, her grandparents’ farm, her family’s migration from Oklahoma and Texas, and the food that graced the table for Sunday Supper once they reached their destination. Some stories might sound familiar – hunting for rabbits, frying up chickens, boiling potatoes dug straight from the ground, and picking berries off the vine to make into a delicious pie. Audience members will connect to these timeless traditions that stretch across generations (and maybe even get a slice of homemade pie to try).
Theressa Rice is a storyteller, baker, and small business owner.
“Kansas Folklife: Celebrating Kansas Traditions” is part of “By the People: Beyond 250,” a national initiative of the Federation of State Humanities Councils and the Smithsonian Center for Folklife and Cultural Heritage.
For more information about “Food for the Journey: Kansas Stories” in Fort Scott, Kansas, contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext.5850 or visit gordonparkscenter.org
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit leading a movement of ideas. Since 1972, HK’s programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and invite new insights. Together with statewide partners and supporters, HK encourages Kansans to draw on diverse histories, literatures, and cultures to create connections with one another and strengthen Kansas communities and our democracy. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
The Fourth of July is coming early this year in Fort Scott.
On June 27, the City of Fort Scott is hosting its annual community event.
“We wanted to avoid family activities/traditions on the Fourth of July,” said Rachel Carpenter, Fort Scott’s Director of Community Development. “There will not be anything happening from the city on the 4th.”
Rachel Carpenter from the City of Fort Scott Employee Directory.
The City of Fort Scott and community partners do invite residents and visitors to celebrate Independence Day at the annual Fort Scott Independence Day Celebration on Saturday, June 27, 2026, at Fort Scott Community College, Carpenter said.
“The family-friendly event will feature an afternoon and evening filled with food, live music, competitions, games, and fireworks, offering something for all ages.”
The churches near Fort Scott Community College are opening their parking lots for the afternoon activities, and there is ADA parking near the cosmetology department on the south central side of the campus.
June 27 city-sponsored activities begin at 3:00 p.m. and include:
Golf cart obstacle course and decoration contest
Slip N Slide Kickball Tournament
Water Wars featuring water inflatables and splash-filled fun
A variety of food trucks offering food and refreshments
Participants are needed for the above activities and the BBQ contest, according to the City of Fort Scott’s monthly newsletter.
Participants can register through the event QR codes available on promotional materials in this publication.
The People’s Choice judging for the Butcher Block BBQ Contest will begin at 5:00 p.m., allowing attendees to help crown the community’s favorite pitmaster.
Live entertainment will be provided throughout the evening with free concerts featuring:
Riker at 5:00 p.m.
The Flatland Band at 7:00 p.m.
Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy an evening of great music, food, and community fellowship before the fireworks display.
“This celebration is a great opportunity for families, friends, and neighbors to come together and celebrate our nation’s independence while enjoying everything that makes Fort Scott a special place to live and visit,” organizers said
Residents and visitors are encouraged to wear their red, white, and blue and join in a day of community pride, family fun, and patriotic celebration, according to Carpenter.
For additional event information, follow City of Fort Scott announcements and event updates on social media.
The annual city-sponsored fireworks display will start at 9:30 p.m., Carpenter said. Cars can line up on South Horton Street as in prior years to view the show.
The show will be launched at the Fort Scott Community College campus, at 1801 S. Horton, with lead pyrotechnician Shaunn Pytlowany and his crew from Premier Pyrotechnics handling the setup and shooting.
Fire works 2026 Rules
Between 18th and 23rd Streets on Horton Street, cars will be lined up on June 27 for the fireworks display launch at Fort Scott Community College.
The 45th annual Fort Scott Good Ol’ Days Celebration runs Saturday, June 6, 2026 in Downtown Fort Scott. Bring the whole family out for the parade, craft and food vendors, camel rides, trolley rides, live music, street dances, kids activities, the Red Garter Show, melodrama performances, Farmers Market, Safety Fair, Car and Bike Show, and more.
Saturday highlights
Farmers Market — 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Kids Fair and bounce houses
Car and Bike Show
Magicians, caricatures, balloonist, live music, shows, and more
Live music at 4 p.m. — DJ Brown & Bourbon County Revival
The Railroad Is a Comin’ melodrama show at the Episcopalian Church, 123 S. National Ave.
Street Dance at 7 p.m. featuring Bound & Determined
The Chamber wants to take a moment to thank all of the donors, sponsors, volunteers, committee members, vendors, performers, local businesses, city crews, first responders, and community members who help make Good Ol’ Days possible. Events like this happen because of so many generous people giving their time, talents, resources, and hearts to the community.
A special thank you goes to the family of Janet Braun, who will be riding as Grand Marshal in the parade in her name. Janet was part of Good Ol’ Days from the beginning, and the Chamber is honored to celebrate her legacy and the many memories she helped create for Fort Scott.
PERRY’S PORK RINDS ANNOUNCES USDA FEDERAL INSPECTION EXPANSION, POSITIONING COMPANY FOR NATIONWIDE GROWTH
BRONSON, Kansas — Perry’s Pork Rinds, a family-owned food manufacturing company based in rural Southeast Kansas, announced a major milestone in its growth journey as the company moves forward with USDA Federal Inspection, paving the way for expanded wholesale distribution throughout the United States.
Founded in 2017 by husband-and-wife team Kelly and Thaddeus Perry, Perry’s Pork Rinds began with a simple idea, a few recipes, and the last $250 in the family’s savings account. What started as a small local venture has grown into one of Kansas’ fastest-growing handcrafted snack brands.
Today, Perry’s Pork Rinds products can be found in more than 200 retail locations across Kansas and are shipped directly to customers nationwide. The company has built a loyal following through its commitment to quality, bold flavors, customer service, and small-town values.
The transition to USDA Federal Inspection slated for July 2026 represents one of the most significant milestones in company history. Federal inspection will allow Perry’s Pork Rinds to wholesale products beyond Kansas state lines and pursue larger retail, distribution, and food service opportunities throughout the country.
“This is a dream that has been years in the making,” said Kelly Perry, co-owner of Perry’s Pork Rinds. “We’ve faced plenty of challenges along the way, including rapid growth, cash flow struggles, long hours, and moments where we weren’t sure how we were going to keep moving forward. But we’ve continued to invest in our business, our customers, and our vision. Federal inspection opens the door to opportunities we’ve been working toward since day one.”
The company currently produces ten flavors of handcrafted pork rinds and has become a familiar presence at farmers markets, fairs, festivals, sporting events, fundraisers, and retail stores throughout Kansas.
As part of its growth strategy, Perry’s Pork Rinds is investing in upgraded production equipment, enhanced packaging capabilities, expanded manufacturing systems, and increased distribution infrastructure designed to support long-term national growth.
“Our goal has never been to become the biggest,” said Thaddeus Perry, co-owner of Perry’s Pork Rinds. “Our goal has always been to build something we could be proud of, create jobs, support our community, and make a quality product people enjoy. We’re excited to show the rest of the country what our Kansas company can do.”
In addition to its business growth, Perry’s Pork Rinds remains heavily involved in community development efforts throughout Southeast Kansas. The company regularly supports local fundraisers, nonprofit organizations, schools, youth programs, and rural economic development initiatives.
The Perry family credits much of the company’s success to faith, perseverance, loyal customers, and the support of the communities that have rallied behind the business since its founding.
“Whether people remember us for our pork rinds or simply for our determination and faith, we hope they remember that we gave this everything we had,” Kelly Perry said. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re even more excited about where we’re headed.”
For additional information, wholesale inquiries, retail opportunities, or media interviews, please contact:
Founded in 2017, Perry’s Pork Rinds is a family-owned food manufacturing company headquartered in Bronson, Kansas. Specializing in handcrafted pork rinds made in small batches, the company offers ten unique flavors and serves customers through retail partners, special events, fundraisers, and direct-to-consumer online sales. Perry’s Pork Rinds is committed to quality, customer service, community involvement, and creating opportunities in rural America. —
*In case of inclement weather, stay tuned for location updates.
We hope to see you there!
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by the Good Ol’ Days Festival Committee this Thursday, June 4th at 8am, on Skubitz Plaza in Downtown Fort Scott. In case of inclement weather, stay tuned for updated information. Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register for a special door prize drawing.
Trey Sharp, Good Ol’ Days Chairman, and the committee are excited to celebrate the 45th Annual Fort Scott Good Ol’ Days, taking place June 5-6 in Downtown Fort Scott. This year’s theme, Red, White, & Good Ol’ Days, is a fitting tribute as America celebrates its 250th birthday, while also honoring the traditions that have made Good Ol’ Days a community favorite for 45 years.
One of those traditions is the popular vendor fair, featuring more than 100 booths offering food, crafts, shopping, family activities, and much more.
Plan to attend the parade, which kicks off Good Ol’ Days at 6 p.m. on Friday, June 5. Before and after the parade, stroll along Main Street north of Wall Street and throughout Skubitz Plaza to explore the many vendors, who will open at 5 p.m. Friday evening will also feature live entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. with a DJ, followed by The KC All Stars live band at 8 p.m. on Skubitz Plaza.
On Saturday, vendor booths open at 9 a.m., with a full day of activities, entertainment, and live music planned throughout downtown. For a complete schedule, visit www.fortscottgoodoldays.com or follow Fort Scott Good Ol’ Days on Facebook.
The Good Ol’ Days Committee extends its sincere thanks to the sponsors, volunteers, donors, and supporters who help make this annual tradition possible. Everyone is encouraged to join the fun and help celebrate 45 years of Good Ol’ Days memories in Fort Scott.
For more information, contact the Chamber at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit fortscott.com Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees for upcoming locations
Tuker Ross (left), Janna Trotter (right), submitted photo.
Two best friends started a mobile coffee business in Nevada, Missouri, in September 2025, and will soon have a physical location in Fort Scott to serve this community.
The name that owners Janna Trotter and Tuker Ross chose for their business is Holy Grounds Jesus & Coffee.
“Coffee is what we do, but it’s never been the full story behind Holy Grounds Jesus & Coffee,” said Ross.
“It has grown into something so much bigger than we anticipated. Our hearts have always been simple: serve our community well and share Jesus with every cup we serve.”
“The Beauty Lounge Salon & Barbershop will be making a location change at the beginning of June, to 1621 S Main St. (previously the Baker Clinic),” Ross said. ” Holy Grounds Jesus & Coffee will be located inside part of the salon, as well as Dr. Press, the audiologist, will be remaining inside the building to continue his work.”
“Holy Grounds Jesus & Coffee has an estimated open date of mid-June. Holy Grounds will be offering hot and iced lattes with scripture written on every cup, as well as non-caffeinated drink options.”
Tentatively, operating hours will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday – Friday, and Saturdays 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
To contact the business, use their Facebook page.
“We will be looking to hire soon. To reach out to us about a job opportunity, please Facebook message us.”
The Why of the new business
“From the very beginning, this business was built on faith. Before the menu, before the logo, before we ever served our first drink— God placed this dream on our hearts,” Ross said. “Long before we felt equipped, He continued to remind us that He doesn’t call the equipped, He equips the called.”
“Now, seeing God open the door for us to continue serving Nevada while also opening our very first physical location in Fort Scott feels surreal. Time after time, He has continued to make a way where we couldn’t see one ourselves.”
“Every cup we serve is more than just coffee to us. It’s an opportunity to place truth into someone’s hands right when they need it most. We may be the ones writing the verses on the cups, but we truly believe God places them exactly where they’re meant to be.”
“If someone walks away with a drink in their hand and hope in their heart, then we’ve done what we were called to do. This is our why”.
A long vacant property on National Avenue has new life.
Bolt Bevs and Bites at 1808 S. National Avenue has been remodeled into a drink and snack business.
Bolt offers coffee, energy drinks, kids’ drinks, breakfast items, snacks, sweet treats, and more.
The dress rehearsal before the grand opening of the business starts tomorrow, May 22, with hours of 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. and continues on Saturday from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. then 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday.
They will be closed for Memorial Day.
Following the soft opening this weekend, regular hours will be 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Sundays.
Co-manager Claire Bradshaw said, “We are from PIttsburg. We like the small town feel, the community connection, and were able to purchase a building here in Fort Scott.”
The owner of the business is Mick Marietta.
The building is the former Taco Tico restaurant. “It’s been vacant for a long time,” Bradshaw said.
“It’s been gutted, with remodeling starting last fall,” said Co-Manager Emery Kafka.
The remodeling includes a drive-through with a canopy on the front of the building.
Currently, the staff includes 20 people ranging from high school age up, and they are still accepting applications, Bradshaw said.
Menu. Submitted graphicSubmitted graphic.
Claire Bradshaw, right, and Emery Kafka are the co-managers of Bolt Bevs and Bites. taken from Bolt’s Facebook page.
