Category Archives: Fort Scott

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott, Jobs

Express Employment Professionals: Help With Recruiting Employees

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Kai Runnells, Express Employment Professionals Business Developer in her office at 119 S. Main, June 2019.

All across America, unemployment is low.

Nationally, total nonfarm payroll employment went up in May 2019 with approximately 75,000 jobs, and the unemployment rate remained at 3.6 percent, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics https://www.bls.gov/news.release/pdf/empsit.pdfon June 9. Employment continued to trend up in professional and business services and in health care.

 

In Bourbon County, the unemployment rate is 4.1 percent, according to the website https://klic.dol.ks.gov/admin/gsipub/htmlarea/uploads/Map%20April%202019%20LAUS.jpg

 

A recent business opened an office in Fort Scott to help other businesses find suitable employees in this era where job seekers have diminished.

 

In April 2019, Express Employment Professionals opened an office in Fort Scott at 119 S. Main.  The franchise is based out of Independence,  since 2004.

The location of Express Employment Professionals, in between Fort Scott City Hall and  Crooner’s Lounge on Main Street.

“The staff and company provide businesses with their workforce needs,” Kai Rannells, business developer with EEP and the local representative, said. Rannells can be reached at 620-644-5050.

“There is a small fee for businesses,” she said. “This covers payroll burden liability. (The fee) varies on types of jobs.”

Because of the low employment rate, candidates without jobs need more coaching, Rannells said.

“Businesses are afraid of what it could cost to train and then retain employees,” she said. “That cost will fall on us. When a company brings in a new employee it costs a fair amount of money and if the employee doesn’t end up lasting, they are out that amount.”

EEP provides temporary or contract staff and do temporary to hire staffing.

“That’s where they start out temporary, and after probation is met, the company is able to hire them as a permanent employee,” Rannells said. “A lot of companies do that to make sure it’s a good fit for their team. We also do direct hires and professional searches.”

“We like to focus on helping people find the right candidate and job seekers find good careers,” she said.

“If someone is looking for a job, we do interviews to see what company would be a good fit of those hiring and we try to place them,” Rannells said. “It is a free service for job seekers.”

For more information about the services and EEP: https://www.expresspros.com/

Business, Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening In Fort Scott June 21

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2019 Chamber Golf Classic 4-Person Scramble – Woodland Hills Golf Course, 2414 S. Horton, July 26th, Registration: 11am, Tee-Off 12pm

For more information or to register, click HERE
Kids Eat Free Lunch At The Keyhole, noon to 1pm, Mon.-Fri., now through July 26th!! 10th & Main St., across from the Fort Scott High School

Sack lunches will be provided to those under 18. Children check in, no need to give names, and then pick up a lunch of shelf-stable meals. Open to all kids, regardless of income; no need to reside in Fort Scott
Hedgehog.INK is now open on Sundays from 1:00-5:00pm!  Make sure to check out the gardening books on the sale rack in the front of the store – These books are FREE, for a donation to Fort Scott High School Thespians. Funds raised will help send students to the international competition in late June
Benefit Bass Fishing Tournaments & Raffles for Class of ’91 Grad Chad Elmer – Entry fees will go toward’s Chad’s upcoming expenses and prize money. Raffles include fishing and outdoor gear, ammo, an AR15 gun, and more! (See flyer below for complete details)
Horticulture Services in Fort Scott – Krista Harding, Horticulture Agent for the Southwind Extension District, has office hours at the Extension office inside the Bourbon County Courthouse every Thursday. In an effort to better serve residents of Fort Scott and the surrounding communities, Krista is there weekly to answer questions and offer advice on lawn and gardens, trees and shrubs, flowers and insect. Bring your spotted leaves, strange looking insects or wilted flowers and let her help you! This a free service and is available to all community members. Questions? Call
620-223-3720.
21-22
Weekly Livestock Sale at Fort Scott Livestock Market. Starting at 10am on both Fridays & Saturdays
Fridays:  Cows, Pairs, Big Bulls
Saturdays:  Stocker & Feeder Cattle, followed by any cows & bulls that come in late Friday & Saturday. Cafe open both sale days. You don’t have to be a buyer, just to come watch the sale and visit the cafe!
21-23 Midwest Nationals Baseball Tournament – LaRoche Complex, Dave Regan Stadium

For complete details, visit: https://www.tourneymachine.com/Public/Results/Tournament.aspx?IDTournament=h201811050447401285d27edd5b27742
21
Red Cross Blood Drive hosted by Community Christian Church – 1919
S. Horton, 9am-1pm

Please call 620-223-5946 to schedule an appointment (see flyer below)
21 Art Walk hosted by the Bourbon County Arts Council – Liberty Theatre Patio,
113 S. Main St., 5-8pm

Join us for an Art Walk hosted by the Bourbon County Arts Council!

If interested in being a vendor contact Debbie Anderson
Email:  [email protected] or phone:  620-224-8650

Visit the BCAC Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/Bourbon-County-Arts-Council-501555123229545/
21 Friday Night Concert in the Park – This week’s concert will be moved to the First Southern Baptist Church at 1818 S. Main St.

The International Music Day 2019 is a day celebrating music all over the world. Celebrated yearly on this day, it is a time to enjoy music of all kinds and a chance for community to come together with a common love for music.  This is our 1st annual International Music Day Concert event. Featured musicians are: The Hemphill Family Band, The Prairie Sunflower Strings,  and Ryan & Amber Goodbody

The concerts are organized by Ralph Carlson. If you or someone you know is interested in performing, contact Ralph at [email protected]

Bring your lawn chair as seating is limited
21
Flicks on the Bricks – sponsored by FS Fire Department & FS Police Department – Skubitz Plaza, 100 Old Fort Blvd., movie starts at sundown

This month’s flick: Planes: Fire & Rescue
22
Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Saturday Mornings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
22 Children’s Miracle Network Kids Carnival – Walmart parking lot, 10am-2pm
(See flyer below for more info)
22
Fresh peaches coming to Tractor Supply Company – 2420 S. Main St., 11:30am-1pm

Peaches are $27 for a 1/4 bushel box (approx. 12.5 lb.) or $45 for a 1/2 bushel box (approx. 25 lb.).

Reserve your fruit at https://freshfarmsusa.com/ or purchase at the truck! (There is a $4 fee to purchase at the truck)
22 Fort Games at Smallville CrossFit – 13 S. National Ave., 1-4 pm

2019 Fort Games is back for the 3rd year! Fort Games is a same-sex partner fitness competition

For full details, visit Smallville’s Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/events/330767534234517/
22
Cinema Saturdays at the Gordon Parks Museum – FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center, 2108 S. Horton, 12-2pm

The Gordon Parks Museum will show the films of Gordon Parks on Saturdays this summer starting on June 8 at 12:00 p.m. in the museum on the FSCC campus.  This free event will feature Mr. Parks’ films and one of Kevin Willmott’s films
22 Wade Brown performs live at Boiler Room Brewhaus – 2 S. National Ave., 7-9pm

Tickets are $10, available at the Brewery, 10 S. National, or the Visitors Center/Chamber, 231 E. Wall St. (See flyer below)

Visit Boiler Room’s website: http://www.boilerroombrewhaus.com
22 BCAC Concert on the Patio: Whiskey Raccoons – Liberty Theatre Patio,
113 S. Main St., 8-10pm

Bourbon County Arts Council presents WHISKEY RACCOONS; part of the BCAC Concert Series on the Patio (See flyer below)

Tickets $10 BCAC members, $15 non-members. Contact Teri Floyd at
620-224-7221

Watch a Whiskey Raccoons video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=12&v=F7cQtDXYoeo
23 Team Trivia at the Boiler Room Brewhaus – 10 S. National, 3-5pm

Exciting, fun and challenging team trivia. Put your team together (maximum of 8 teams, maximum of 5 members on a team)

$5 per person. Cash prizes for winning team. Pre-register at the tap room
24 Summer Reading Alien Parties – FS Public Library, 201 S. National,
2:30-4pm
25-26
Summer Reading Program: Space Travel & Engineering – FS Public Library,
201 S. National, 10am-12pm

With guest Professor Heather Davis
25 T.O.P.S Meeting – Buck Run Community Center, 3-4pm
25 Fort Scott Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 2108 S. Horton, 12-1pm
25 Trinity Lutheran Church VBS – 2824 S. Horton, 1-3:30pm

Join us at Trinity Lutheran for a 2 day VBS!!! June 25 & 27, 1:00-3:30. Snack provided.

VBS Fellowship June 30 following 9:00am service; VBS offerering goes to Care To Share. Please call 620-223-3596 to register. Limited to 50 kids
25 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Tuesday evenings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
25
Author Talk and Book-Signing at Hedgehog.INK!

Meet and greet author Ronda Hassig. She will be discussing her book titled “The Greatest Test of Courage”, which follows Edward Mack during World War II. Stationed in the Philippines, his life changed forever on December 7, 1941. Learn about Edward Mack’s story and how his ring found in California in 2007, prompted the writing of his story

There will be an author talk, Q & A and book-signing in her home at 512
S. Judson (former home of Ken and Charlotte Lunt) (See flyer below)
26 Breakfast Bingo at Buck Run Community Center, 2nd & 4th Wednesday of every month – 735 Scott Ave.

Come drink some coffee and play some bingo at Buck Run.  Staff will provide the bingo cards, the caller, and coffee.  Prizes provided by the Fort Scott Recreation Commission. (Free)
26 Rotary Meeting – Presbyterian Church,  308 S. Crawford St., 12-1pm
26
Adult Coloring Program – Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National Ave.,
2-4pm
Join us in the library events room for a relaxing afternoon of coloring and conversation. Library provides coloring pages, pens and pencils, and snacks. Bring your own beverage of choice (no alcohol, please)
26
Summer Reading Program for Middle & High School Students – FS Public Library, 201 S. National, 4-6pm – Book Club
27
Join us for the weekly Chamber Coffee of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at 8am. This week’s Chamber Coffee will be hosted by Integrity Home Health & Hospice, co-hosted by Integrity’s Walk to End Alzheimer’s Team
For more on the Walk to End Alzheimer’s event, click HERE
There will be a bake sale during the Chamber Coffee
Location: 902 S. Horton
27
Krista Harding provides horticulture services at the Bourbon County Courthouse every Thursday – 210 S. National, 9am-3:30pm

Krista Harding, Horticulture Agent for the Southwind Extension District, has office hours at the Extension office inside the Bourbon County Courthouse every Thursday. In an effort to better serve residents of Fort Scott and the surrounding communities, Krista is there weekly to answer questions and offer advice on lawn and gardens, trees and shrubs, flowers and insect. Bring your spotted leaves, strange looking insects or wilted flowers and let her help you! This a free service and is available to all community members. Questions? Call 620-223-3720 (See flyer below)
27 Pioneer Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 12pm-1pm
27
Trinity Lutheran Church VBS – 2824 S. Horton, 1-3:30pm

Join us at Trinity Lutheran for a 2 day VBS!!! June 25 & 27, 1:00-3:30. Snack provided.

VBS Fellowship June 30 following 9:00am service; VBS offerering goes to Care To Share. Please call 620-223-3596 to register. Limited to 50 kids
27 Thursday Card Players – Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Ave.,
6-9pm

Free weekly event to anyone that wants to play cards, drink coffee, eat snacks, and socialize
27 A Star is Born, or Died – Boiler Room Brewhaus, 2 S. National Ave., 7-9pm

Join Boiler Room Brewhaus on Thursday evenings from
7-9pm for karaoke fun. Cheer on your favorite local star
27
Fort Scott Chamber Music Series, sponsored by BB County Arts Council and Key Charitable Trust – Fort Scott High School, 1005 S. Main St., 7-9pm

This concert will showcase the restoration of the Steinway Grand Piano, played by competition winning pianist, Baolong Zhang

Featured Musicians:
Baolong Zhang – Piano; Raul Munguia – Violin; Christine Grossman – Viola;  Matt Sinno – Viola; Ben Clinesmith – Cello; Kathleen Clinesmith – Bass
28-29
Weekly Livestock Sale at Fort Scott Livestock Market. Starting at 10am on both Fridays & Saturdays
Fridays:  Cows, Pairs, Big Bulls
Saturdays:  Stocker & Feeder Cattle, followed by any cows & bulls that come in late Friday & Saturday. Cafe open both sale days. You don’t have to be a buyer, just to come watch the sale and visit the cafe!
28-30 Midwest Nationals Baseball Tournament – La Roche Complex,
4805 Campbell Dr.
28 Friday Night Concert in the Park – Heritage Park Pavillion, 1st & Main St.,
7-8pm

The concerts are organized by Ralph Carlson. If you or someone you know is interested in performing, contact Ralph at [email protected]

Bring your lawn chair as seating is limited
29
Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Saturday Mornings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
29
Cinema Saturdays at the Gordon Parks Museum – FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center, 2108 S. Horton, 12-2pm

The Gordon Parks Museum will show the films of Gordon Parks on Saturdays this summer starting on June 8 at 12:00 p.m. in the museum on the FSCC campus.  This free event will feature Mr. Parks’ films and one of Kevin Willmott’s films
29 Paint and Sip at Boiler Room Brewhaus – 2 S. National Ave., 2-4pm

Class size is limited to 30 painters – Reserve your seat by going to the Brewhaus and paying Barbara $25, or go to Brewhaus’ Facebook page, post your RSVP, and a PayPal request will be sent to you for $25
29 80’s Party at Holmtown Pub – 206 N. National Ave., 8-11pm

DJ RAY RAY will be on the Patio playing your favorite 80’s music. Dress to impress, there will be a prize for the most authentic outfit. Ladies get your hairspray, men find your parachute pants and “Miami Vice” jackets. Some of your 80’s favorite cocktails; B-52’s, Slippery Nipples, Alabama Slammer’s and Blue Lagoons will be served all night long. The party starts at 8pm, June 29th , on the Holmtown Pub Patio!
30 Team Trivia at the Boiler Room Brewhaus – 10 S. National, 3-5pm

Exciting, fun and challenging team trivia. Put your team together (maximum of 8 teams, maximum of 5 members on a team)

$5 per person. Cash prizes for winning team. Pre-register at the tap room
30 Bronson Independence Day Celebration – Bronson Baseball Park,
7:30-10:00pm

Starting at 7:30 pm there will be free ice cream & cake, with the fireworks starting at dark. Bring your lawn chairs!

Donations appreciated but not required
July 2 Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greet, hosted by the Chamber – La Hacienda Restaurant, 24 N. Main St.

The Chamber of Commerce hosts Quarterly Downtown Meet & Greets at a different location for Downtown business owners or representatives, or anyone in the community with an interest in Downtown to attend and share thoughts and ideas related to Downtown, and to stay current on new happenings
2 T.O.P.S Meeting – Buck Run Community Center, 3-4pm
2 Fort Scott Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 2108 S. Horton, 12-1pm
2 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Tuesday evenings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
2 City Commission Meeting – City Hall, 123 S. Main, 6-7pm
3 Summer Reading Performer: Juggler Brian Wendling – FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center, 2108 S. Horton, 10-11am
3 Rotary Meeting – Presbyterian Church,  308 S. Crawford St., 12-1pm
3 Monthly Grief Support Luncheon hosted by Cheney Witt Chapel – at The Carriage House, 301 S. Main, 12-1pm

Anyone dealing with a loss is encouraged to come and bring a friend.Cheney Witt Chapel will provide lunch at the Carriage House,
301 S. Main.Call 620-223-1186 for more info
3 Bourbon County Coalition Monthly Meeting (public welcome) – located in the basement of the First Baptist Church, 123 Scott Ave., 12-1pm
3
Adult Coloring Program – Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National Ave.,
2-4pm
Join us in the library events room for a relaxing afternoon of coloring and conversation. Library provides coloring pages, pens and pencils, and snacks. Bring your own beverage of choice (no alcohol, please)
3 Summer Reading Program for Middle & High School Students – FS Public Library, 201 S. National, 4-6pm – Community Service
3 Uniontown’s 14th Annual Independence Day Celebration – Union State Bank in Uniontown, 204 Sherman St., 6-9:30pm

Union State Bank is hosting the 14th Annual Independence Day Celebration at Uniontown City Park on the 3rd of July! Hot dogs, chips, and water will be served, starting at 7:00. Jump houses, selfie bar, and entertainment will make for an enjoyable evening with friends and family. Fireworks will start at dark. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the evening!
4 No Chamber Coffee in observance of the 4th of July holiday
4 Horticultural services at the Bourbon County Courthouse every Thursday – 210 S. National, 9am-3:30pm

Krista Harding, Horticulture Agent for the Southwind Extension District, has office hours at the Extension office inside the Bourbon County Courthouse every Thursday. In an effort to better serve residents of Fort Scott and the surrounding communities, Krista is there weekly to answer questions and offer advice on lawn and gardens, trees and shrubs, flowers and insect. Bring your spotted leaves, strange looking insects or wilted flowers and let her help you! This a free service and is available to all community members. Questions? Call 620-223-3720
4 37th Annual Burke Street Parade – Starts at 10th & Burke St., 10-11am
4 Pioneer Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 12pm-1pm
4 Thursday Card Players – Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Ave.,
6-9pm

Free weekly event to anyone that wants to play cards, drink coffee, eat snacks, and socialize
4 A Star is Born, or Died – Boiler Room Brewhaus, 2 S. National Ave., 7-9pm

Join Boiler Room Brewhaus on Thursday evenings from
7-9pm for karaoke fun. Cheer on your favorite local star!
Save the Date:
– July 5 – Patriots Classic Baseball Tournament hosted by FSHS
– July 5 – YPL First Friday Luncheon (Young Professional’s League
– July 5 – Friday Night Concert in the Park
– July 6 – Farmers’ Market
– July 6 – Cinema Saturdays at Gordon Parks Museum
– July 7 – Team Trivia at Boiler Room Brewhaus
– July 7 – Fort Scott Chamber Music Series Concert
Click here for full events listing on our website.
Business, Fort Scott, Housing

Stout Building-Going, Union Block Building-New Apartments

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Flexbuild has demolition containers in front of the Union Block Building on North Main Street in Fort Scott’s Historic District.

There will be lots of activity at the corner of First and Main Streets in the next few weeks, according to Paul Wagner, Co-Founder of Flexbuild, Merriam. Flexbuild is the general contractor for the demolition of the Stout Building and the renewing of the Union Block Building in downtown historic Fort Scott.

The Union Block building, three storefronts at 18, 20 and 22 South Main are in the “build-back” phase, now, following demolition phase, Wagner said. The project is slated for completion for the end of 2019, he said.

“The buildings have been gutted by Skitch’s Hauling, Excavation, and Demolition,” Wagner said. “He has done a great job.”

These buildings will be transformed into 25 market-rate apartments ranging from 750 to 1,100 square feet in size. In addition, there will be a community room, exercise room, and an office area.

“The community rooms will be in the front, where the glass is,” Wagner said. “Everything else will be apartments. These are nice accommodations. In the back of the north building, there will be a courtyard for residents.”

“Just recently we got the building permit (from the city),” Wagner said. “Westar (Energy) is moving the electrical lines out of the way, to keep us safe. And  we got the state fire marshall approval, which is a big step.”

Flexbuild is moving from demolition to reconstructing on the Union Block Building and is currently working with a local quarry to fill the crawlspace under the buildings, he said.

Tony Kresnich, Flint Hills Holdings, holds the contract for the project, Wagner said. Neil Sommers, Louisburg, is the architect.

“We are trying to do as many local subs as possible,” he said. “Electrical, plumbing, HVAC, concrete, masonry, painting and carpentry. Between subs and my workers, there will be 15-20 workers.”

The Stout Building, National Avenue and First Street will be demolished in the next two weeks, according to the general contractor for the project.

The Stout Building, at National Avenue and First Street, will be completely demolished and a parking lot/park rebuilt on the spot, Wagner said.

The Union Block buildings were built in the 1880-90s, Wagner was told.

 

 

 

Art, Bourbon County, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Art Walk: Downtown This Evening

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Please join the
Bourbon County Arts Council
for an
ART WALK
THIS EVENING, June 21st
from 5pm-8pm!
The Bourbon County Arts Council
is hosting an
ART WALK
on the Liberty Theatre Patio,
113 S. Main St.,
THIS EVENING, June 21st from 5pm to 8pm.
For more information, contact Terri Floyd by email: [email protected]
or by phone: 620-224-7221
OR
Deb Halsey by email:
or by phone: 620-224-0684
Area News, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Actors In Pittsburg Community Theater This Evening

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The Fort Scott community is  invited to experience “We Are Monsters” at 6 pm  and 8 pm this evening  at Pittsburg Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center.
“I am the music director of this 2-week summer theater camp and we have several Fort Scott kidlets performing, including Abel Chaplin, Mila Newman, Chrislen Newman, Analeise Rupprecht, and Emma Bin,” Mary Jo Harper, said. “Our kids are rocking it!”

 

“Each summer for many years, PCT has supported Jr. Starz, an intensive, two-week children’s theatre workshop that culminates in a free performance for the community,” according to the Pittsburg Community Theatre Facebook page.

The workshop dates were June 10-21 and the show date: June 21

Session 1 – 8 a.m. to noon (show is June 21 at 6 p.m.)
Session 2 – 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. (show is June 21 at 8 p.m.)

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

Walmart Starts Curbside Pickup of Groceries

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The word Pickup can be seen on the south section of Walmart, 2500 S. Main Street.

Walmart Fort Scott started grocery curbside service June 19.

Here is a simple how-to on the process of using the service:

One can order at walmart.com, after creating an account and setting up payment by credit card. The pickup service costs nothing.

After the order is complete, pickup time is scheduled, then when the customer arrives, there is a designated area on the south of the store with 10 orange parking spaces.

The door the Walmart employees use to bring the groceries to the customer curbside is located on the south side of the building.
Designated parking spaces for pickup, with the phone number to call when arriving.

On the sign in the designated parking spaces is a phone number to call when arriving. Workers come out with a cart and will put the groceries in the customer’s vehicle.

Walmart employees check the order to see if it is the correct one.

Being the first day, there were a few glitches to work out, but this reporter had groceries in the trunk in 10 minutes.

Counting approximately 15 minutes to order online, the service is a time saver and is free.

Elections, Fort Scott

Candidate Forum July 23

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Save the Date: Community members are invited to an Election Candidate Forum co-hosted by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce and the Young Professionals League of Bourbon County. The event will take place on Tuesday, July 23, 2019 at the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center at 2108 S. Horton. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. for a meet & greet with the candidates and the forum will begin at 6 p.m. Light refreshments will be served.

There will be two races on the Primary Election ballot which will be included in this forum:

  • The first is USD-234 Position 3. There are 5 candidates for 1 position; this race will be narrowed to 2 candidates after the primary election. Candidates include Kellye Barrows, Joe Foulk Sr., Michael Hoyt, Josh Jones, and Aaron Judy.
  • The second is Fort Scott City Commission. There are 14 candidates for 3 positions; this race will be narrowed to 6 candidates after the primary election. Candidates include Cheryl Adamson, Harold (Pete) Allen, Kevin (Skitch) Allen, Cindy Bartelsmeyer, Casey Bolden, Tracy Dancer, Bobby Duncan, Bob Farmer, Josh Jones, Deb McCoy, Diana Morriss, Jeanie Parker, Lindsey Watts, and Matthew Wells.

Questions for the candidates may be submitted to the Chamber by July 22nd by email at [email protected] or mailed or dropped off in person. Candidates are asked to RSVP to the Chamber prior to the forum by phone or email.

For more information please contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566.

Ascension Via Christi, Fort Scott, Health Care

Cason: Via Christi Beginning to Explore Facility Options

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Randy Cason, Ascension Via Christi Hospital President speaks at the grand opening of the Fort Scott Emergency Department on Feb. 28.

Ascension Via Christ came to Fort Scott to fill in the void of emergency care, following the closure of Mercy Hospital.

The following is an update on the facility options for the Fort Scott Emergency Department, from Randy Cason, president of Ascension Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg. Ascension Via Christ opened the local emergency department on Feb. 28, 2019.
“Ascension Via Christi stepped forward to meet the Fort Scott community’s immediate need for close-to-home emergency, laboratory and diagnostic imaging and we continue to explore and discuss options beyond our two-year lease agreement,” Cason said in a press release. “Our goal is to establish a sustainable model of care that best meets the needs of all the patients and families we serve in Ft. Scott and Southeast Kansas. However, we are still in the beginning stages of the exploration process of potential facility options.”
The door to the Emergency Department in Fort Scott.
The facility is operating out of the former Mercy Hospital building currently, which is located at 405 Woodland Hills on Fort Scott’s south side, just off Hwy. 69. The emergency department faces the south side of the building.
Ascension Via Christi took over operations of the emergency department in February 2019, following the closing of Mercy the end of December 2018.
From left: Tawny Sandifer, Ascension Via Christi Chief Nursing Officer; Naomi Powers, Director of the Emergency Department in Fort Scott and Pittsburg; Jessica Cobb, RN Nursing Manager, Fort Scott and Pittsburg; Kayla Stewart, RN Coordinator Clinical Program. The photo was taken during the opening of the emergency department in February 2019.
People who are interested in working with Ascension Via Christ can visit www.viachristi.org/jobs
Art, Entertainment, Fort Scott

Friday Night Concert: First Southern Baptist Church

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The Friday Night Free Concert in the Park series is sponsored by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce.
The concert this Friday will be moved to the First Southern Baptist Church on South Main Street at 7 p.m.
Featured musicians are The Hemphill Family Band, The Prairie Sunflower Strings and Ryan and Amber Goodbody.
“I am particularly happy to have this lineup of talent,” said Ralph Carlson, event coordinator. “This is a special performance that you should not miss.”

The International Music Day 2019 is a celebration of music all over the world, Carlson said.
“Celebrated yearly on this day, it is a time to enjoy music of all kinds and a chance for community to come together with a common love for music,” he said.  “This is our First Annual International Music Day Concert event.
Fort Scott, Government

Fort Scott Commission Minutes of June 4

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CITY OF FORT SCOTT

CITY COMMISSION MEETING

Minutes of June 4, 2019 Regular Meeting #10

The regular meeting of the Fort Scott City Commission was held June 4th, 2019 at 6:00 p.m. in the City Commission Room, 123 S. Main, Fort Scott, Kansas.

ROLL CALL:

Commissioners Adamson, Bartelsmeyer, Mitchell, and Nichols were present with Mayor Parker presiding.

INVOCATION: Pastor Norman Tillotson, First Baptist Church, said a prayer asking God for guidance for the City, our Government and City officials.

AUDIENCE IN ATTENDANCE: Rhonda Dunn, Robert Uhler, Rachel Pruitt, Darrell Parker, Deb Needleman, Norman Tillotson, Deb McCoy, Dianna Morris, Brian Allen, James Wood, and representing the press, Jason Silvers of the Fort Scott Tribune.

PROCLAMATIONS/RECOGNITIONS: None were present.

Introduction of Tiana McElroy, City Prosecutor

Introduction of Adam Harrison, Codes Enforcement Supervisor

Introduction of Lyle Brittain, Codes Enforcement Officer

Recognition of Randy Ballweber, Codes Enforcement Officer

APPROVAL OF MINUTES AND APPROPRIATIONS/CONSENT AGENDA:

  1. Approval of minutes of the regular meeting of May 21st, 2019 and special meeting of May 28th, 2019.

  1. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1239-A totaling $273,183.61.

Mitchell moved to approve the Consent Agenda. Adamson seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED CONSENT AGENDA.

APPEARANCE/COMMENTS/PUBLIC HEARING:

  1. APPEARANCE: James Wood – Closure of alley for events at Holmtown Pub – Mr. Wood thanked JoLynne Mitchell, Dave Martin, Mike Embry, Michael Mix, and Chad Brown. They had an issue behind their building last week and they reacted very quickly and found a solution. They have two upcoming events the next two weekends. They are fundraisers. They would like to utilize the north side of their building weather permitting. He asked to close Pine Street from National to the alley to utilize this area for the events. He asked for it to be closed from 12:00 noon on June 8th through the evening and also on June 15th.

Bartelsmeyer moved to approve to close Pine Street from National to the alley on June 8th and June 15th, 2019 for their two upcoming events. Nichols seconded. All voted aye.

APPROVED TO CLOSE PINE STREET FROM NATIONAL TO THE ALLEY ON JUNE 8TH AND JUNE 15TH, 2019 FOR TWO UPCOMING EVENTS FOR HOLMTOWN PUB.

B. CITIZEN COMMENTS (Concerning Items Not on Agenda – 3 minute

limit per citizen) – None

  1. PUBLIC HEARINGS: None

CONSIDERATION:

  1. City Surplus Auction Update – Rhonda Dunn, Director of Finance, gave the Commission an update on the City’s surplus auction that was held on May 10th, 2019. The total of the auction was $14,738.50. The auctioneer, Lance Anderson’s commission was 15% which totaled $2,210.78, advertising was $437.16; amounting to a net proceed of $12,090.56. Part of this went to the general fund and then a part of it went to the Police forfeiture fund as there was a vehicle that was seized and sold from the Police Department. She thanked Chad Brown and Tom Coffman and all the departments for their hard work.

  1. Consideration to approve extension of the Flood Fill Permit for Golden Arrow Corporation – Rhonda Dunn, Director of Finance, informed the Commission that she has a request from Golden Arrow Corporation, which is Greg Schick, for the property at 520 E. Wall. He has requested from the State and now from the City for a one year extension of his permit. Rhonda told him that she would not make a recommendation for a one year extension. We need to find a timeline to complete this project. We have waited three years. He is working on it. The property has changed and some of the building materials are gone. He is working with AG Engineering on compacting the fill. He is raising the property 12” from the flood plain. The permit expires on July 1st, 2019. The Commission can condemn this after this date if so desired. She has asked him to come up with a plan on this property.

Commissioner Adamson asked about the vehicles that are being placed there.

Rhonda said that she has spoken with him about the vehicles. He does own the old Red Barn property also. She has talked with the State and he does not have any kind of permit to place the vehicles there. He is asking the County for a permit to move materials west of the Red Barn. He prepares these vehicles for the scrap yard and brings a big truck in and hauls them off.

Rhonda asked them to look at this property in the next two weeks.

COMMISSION/STAFF:

  1. Director Updates: Rachel Pruitt appeared on behalf of Lindsay Madison, Chamber of Commerce, regarding the First Impressions invitation. You are all invited to hear the results tomorrow night at the Empress at 6:00 p.m. The group was here a year ago and will present their thoughts at this event.

  1. City Commission:

Adamson – Remarked that all the changes for Good Ol’ Days were good – the crowds were great.

Nichols – Thanked all involved in the Good Ol’ Days for their hard work.

Bartelsmeyer – Thanked all the City staff for their hard work this past weekend for Good Ol’ Days.

Mitchell – Said she heard positive feedback on the weekend’s events.

Parker – Thanked all the staff for their efforts and hard work to put on this event.

  1. City Manager: Nothing to report.

ADJOURNMENT:

Mitchell moved to adjourn the meeting at 6:21 p.m. Bartelsmeyer seconded. All voted aye.

ADJOURNED MEETING AT 6:21 P.M.

The next regularly scheduled meeting is to be held on June 18th, 2019 at 6:00 p.m.

RECORDED BY:

DEB NEEDLEMAN

HUMAN RESOURCE DIRECTOR