Category Archives: Fort Scott

Entertainment, Fort Scott, Gordon Parks Museum

2023 GORDON PARKS CELEBRATION Schedule of Events

Leave a comment

2023 GORDON PARKS CELEBRATION

Schedule of Events

Thursday, October 5th

 

PHOTO EXHIBIT in the Gordon Parks Museum and Lunt Lobby of the Fine Arts Center.

 

  • The Merl Humphrey Photography-sponsored photo contest will be on display with the theme of “Family, Home, and Roots” Winners will be announced at the Chamber Coffee.

 

  • The Collection and Works of Yvonne Palkowitsh, fine arts photographer born and raised in Fort Scott, KS.

 

  • The Back to Fort Scott, Now reimaged photos and I Need Paris photos in the Lunt Lobby of the Fine Arts Center. Supported in part by Evergy and Millers Professional Imaging.

 

POEM EXHIBIT in the Gordon Parks Museum and Lunt Lobby of the Fine Arts Center.  The Helen Townsend, Poet and Trabar & Associates – sponsored poem contest will be on display. Winners will be announced at the Chamber Coffee, but presented at the Open Mic event on Saturday, Oct 7, 2023.

 

SIGN DISPLAY & MURAL DISPLAY Visit the Lowell Milken Center Unsung Heroes Park, 1 S. Main St. Gordon Parks is one of the featured signs. View also the mural of Gordon Parks at Riverfront Park, 400 N. National.

 

8:00 a.m. – 9:00 a.m. — Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce Coffee at the Gordon Parks Museum. FREE.

 

9:30 a.m. – 10:30 a.m.  — Showing of the Leadbelly film. In the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Auditorium. FREE.

 

10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Registration open outside of Museum.

 

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn) “Learning From Gordon Parks” Ann Dean, Freelance Photographer and Artist will talk about Gordon Parks documentation of American life and culture. Born in Fort Scott, Kansas, in 1912, he is one of the most esteemed image makers of all time. In this presentation Ann discusses the impact and inspiration found in Parks’ books: The Learning Tree, A Choice of Weapons, and Half Past Autumn. These books help illustrate Parks’ mother’s teachings centered in love, dignity, and hard work, and provide a starting point to talk about his struggles, choices, and triumphs – all great life lessons for those searching to find their way in this complicated world. Our program is brought to us by Humanities Kansas.  The Lunch and Learn is free to attend, but the sandwich wrap lunches are only available by pre-purchase for $10 each by Wed, Oct. 4.  Those planning to purchase the lunches may go online at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by phone or check by mail. or bring your own lunch and join us. Dessert and drinks also available in the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE to attend, except for lunch.

 

1:30 p.m. – 2:15 p.m. — “The Super Fly Trilogy”, Fifty years after the premiere of this Soul Cinema masterpiece,         L.Roi Boyd, III, Professor of Theatre & Speech at Virginia State University; Co-Founding Artistic Director Cultural Libations, will provide a presentation on his new book The Super Fly Trilogy. Boyd will share the backstory behind the film taking it all the way to its beginnings in Cleveland, Ohio and its parallels with real gangsters and racketeers. Discussion will also center on the events that led to the production and presentation of the Super Fly films from the 1972 film Super Fly – directed by Gordon Parks, Jr. to 2018. FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Guided Trolley Tour of Gordon Parks’ Fort Scott & The Learning Tree Film Scene Locations.   Meet at the entrance of the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. See the places in Fort Scott that are part of Gordon Parks’ history.  Fee: $8. https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by phone or mail.

 

4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. — Showing of the film Moments Without Proper Names in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Auditorium. FREE.

Friday, October 6th

 

9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.  — Registration open outside of Museum.

 

9:00 a.m. – 9:50 a.m. — “Parks and Muhammad Ali” Professor John Edwin Mason, Associated Professor, University of Virginia Department of History will explore the special friendship between Gordon Parks and Muhammad Ali. Gordon photographed the heavy weight champion on two separate photo-essays for LIFE magazine. During that time, a great bond was created between both Parks and Ali. FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Auditorium.  FREE.

 

10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. — “A Conversation with Choice of Weapon Honorees.”  The 2023 “Choice of Weapons Award” honorees, Tommy Dodson, Mario Sprouse, and Deborah Willis. FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Auditorium.  FREE.

 

11:30 a.m. – 12:15 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn Event) “Harlem Renaissance and the Renaissance Man” with Randal Jelks, Professor of African and African American Studies and American Studies at University of Kansas. This presentation will share the history, journey, and connection of two titans of the early 20th century — Langston Hughes, a poet and playwright, and Gordon Parks, a photographer. This presentation will reveal their shared legacy through an exhibit panel display that celebrates their lives and careers. This will also be the official launch opening with ribbon cutting of the exhibit. Our program is brought to us by Humanities Kansas.  The Lunch and Learn is free to attend, but the sack lunches are only available by pre-purchase for $10 each by Thur, Oct. 4.  Those planning to purchase the lunches may go online at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by phone or check by mail or bring your own lunch and join us. Dessert and drinks also available in the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE to attend, except for lunch.

 

12:30 p.m. – 1:30 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn Event) “Back to Fort Scott, Now” and “I Needed Paris Update” with Michael Cheers, Associate Professor, Photojournalism, School of Journalism and Mass Communications, San Jose State University, Shreepad Joglekar, Department of Art & Associate Professor, Kansas State University and Jason Miccolo Johnson, former Professor in the Journalism and Mass Communications Department at Savannah State University. The presentation of the “Back to Fort Scott, Now” project, is the reimaging and tribute of Gordon Parks photos that he had taken in Fort Scott, KS, in 1950. Parks was on assignment for LIFE magazine to do a story on segregated schools and to follow up with his classmates that he graduated with from the segregated Plaza School in Fort Scott. Cheers & Joglekar will share project research and discuss the October photo exhibition. Professors Cheers and Johnson, will also provide an update and share photos of the “I Needed Paris” project that took a group of African American photographers through Paris, traversing the same streets and neighborhoods as Gordon Parks, when he worked in the Paris bureau of Life magazine in the early 1950s. This session reimagines Gordon’s iconic fashion, portrait and documentary photo essay work. Our program is brought to us by Evergy. The Lunch and Learn is free to attend, but the sack lunches are only available by pre-purchase for $10 each by Thursday, Oct. 5. Those planning to purchase the lunches may go online at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by phone or check by mail or bring your own lunch and join us. Dessert and drinks also available in the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE to attend, except for lunch.

 

2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — “The Collections and Works of Yvonne Palkowitsh” Yvonne, a self-taught fine arts photographer born and raised in Fort Scott, KS, delves into the depths of storytelling through her work. She will be showcasing a collection of her pieces, which will be on display during her presentation. Through her use of painterly techniques, Yvonne transforms traditional photographs into imaginative and soulful tales. Her inspiration stems from the power and vulnerability found within dark and ambiguous locations, infused with rich colors. Yvonne’s creative process begins with carefully planned scenes, followed by the use of detailed digital composite techniques, resulting in surreal and thought-provoking narratives that tell unique stories of her subjects. Supported in part by Bourbon County Arts Council. FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

 

4:00 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. — “Free To Serve” (Mural Unveiling) Join us for the unveiling of the new mural display featuring the “1st Kansas Colored Infantry.” This is in honor and tribute of their sacrifice and willingness to serve. The mural will be on display at the north downtown building located at 9 South Main St, near Skubitz Plaza.  FREE.

 

 

7:30 p.m. – “Celebration Dance Party” featuring, Kansas City All Stars. Celebrate and dance the night away to the Premier Dance Party Band in Kansas City. This KC Band will perform some of the best R&B and Dance hits for all generations.  Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Cash bar available. The River Room, 3 W. Oak St. All seats reserved. Fee: $25.00 each or $30 at the door. Tickets available online https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events, by phone or by mail. Supported in part by The Bourbon County Arts Council, and Peerless Products, Inc. in Fort Scott, KS.

 

Saturday, October 7th

 

9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. — Registration open outside of Museum.

 

8:50 a.m.  – 10:00 a.m. — “Open Mic Poetry” This open mic is for any poets, rappers, musicians, or artists of all ages to read their work. Bring your friends, your poetry, your instruments, your beats, your inspirations, your creativity, and your talent! No sign-up necessary, just hop on the mic when you’re ready! Hosted by poet, Barbara L. Eikner. FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Gordon Parks Museum. Coffee, water, juice, and light refreshments will be available. FREE.

 

10:15 a.m. – 11:00 a.m. — “Back to Fort Scott, Plaza School Classmates and Descendants” Katherine Karlin, Professor, Emerita, English Department, Kansas State University and Natassja Norwood, Undergraduate Student at Kansas State University will introduce and share findings from their research about Gordon Parks classmates and their decedents from the segregated Plaza School in Fort Scott.  FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

 

11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn Event) “History of the Hawkins/Plaza School and All-School Reunion” This presentation and event will explore the history of the (1884 – 1956) segregated Hawkins/Plaza School that Gordon Parks attended. We will also honor former students that attended either school throughout the years. Join us as we take a journey through time to learn about the school(s). We encourage former students that attended the school to share their experience, stories and more during their time at the segregated school. There will also be a group photo of the former students that attended Hawkins/Plaza School. FREE “BBQ by the Patio”.  Join us for some great barbeque, potato salad, chips, desserts, drinks. Sponsored by Dunks BBQ. (Visitors may bring their own lunch.) Drinks will be provided. There is no cost for the lunch, but registration for the BBQ is required either online https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events, by phone or by mail by Fri, Oct. 6. Donations are certainly appreciated.

FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

 

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — Showing of the Criterion Collection film The Learning Tree in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center/Auditorium. FREE.

 

3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m. Guided Trolley Tour of Gordon Parks’ Fort Scott & The Learning Tree Film Scene Locations.   Meet at the entrance of the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. See the places in Fort Scott that are part of Gordon Parks’ history.  Fee: $8. https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events at phone or by mail.

 

7:00 p.m. – “Celebration Tribute Dinner” (Social Hour starts at 6:00 p.m.) Join us for an evening of celebration and dinner, music performance and tribute to past honorees and Gordon Parks. The evening will be highlighted by the presentation of the 2023 “Gordon Parks Choice of Weapons Award” to Tommy Dodson, Mario Sprouse, and Deborah Willis. There will also be a presentation of the inaugural “Gordon Parks Learning Tree Award” to Jill Warford. This event will be held at the Liberty Theater. 113 S. Main St. All seats reserved. Fee: $35.00. Tickets available online at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events, by phone or by mail. (Reserve by Wed, Oct. 4).

 

Sunday, October 8th

9:00 a.m. – Breakfast at Crooner’s Lounge. Enjoy a breakfast buffet at one of Fort Scott’s finest! Located at 117 S. Main Street, Downtown Fort Scott.  You’re sure to find something on the buffet to please.  Check it out at: fscrooners.com. (No ticket required-everyone pays for their own).

 

 

 

TICKET PURCHASE FOR THE 2023 CELEBRATION:

 

Friday, October 6th Celebration Dance Party – Purchase and reserve online, phone, or at the door.

 

Saturday, October 7th BBQ by the Patio –Reservation. FREE. Please reserve by Friday, October 6. FREE.

 

Saturday, October 7th Tribute Dinner-Reservation Only. Please reserve by Wednesday, October 4.

 

  • (Lunch and Learn) “Learning From Gordon Parks”: I would like to purchase _______ lunch tickets at $10 each for a total of $ ________. Please select any dietary options: Vegan: Qty ______ Vegetarian: Qty ________

 

  • (Lunch and Learn Event) “Harlem Renaissance and the Renaissance Man”: I would like to purchase _______ tickets at $10 each for a total of $ ________.   Please select any dietary options:   Vegan: Qty ______   Vegetarian: Qty ________

 

  • (Lunch and Learn Event): “Back to Fort Scott Now and I Needed Paris Update”: I would like to purchase _______ tickets at $10 each for a total of $ ________. Please select any dietary options: Vegan: Qty ______            Vegetarian: Qty ________

 

  • Celebration Dance Party: I would like to purchase _______ tickets at $25 each for a total of $ ________.

 

  • BBQ on the Patio: I would like to reserve_______ tickets FREE. Please select any dietary options:                  Vegan: Qty ______ Vegetarian: Qty ________

 

  • Celebration Tribute Dinner: I would like to purchase _______ tickets at $35 each for a total of $ ________. Please select any dietary options: Vegan: Qty______ Vegetarian: Qty ________

 

 

Total Registration Cost…………………………………………………………………$________.

 

Name, Address: __________________________________________________________________________

 

Phone # & Email: _________________________________________________________________________

 

__________CHECK ENCLOSED payable to the Gordon Parks Museum

 

Gordon Parks Museum

2108 S. Horton St. Fort Scott, KS 66701

Or register online at www.gordonparkscenter.org

Questions?  Call us at 620-223-2700, ext. 5850 or email:  [email protected]

Celebration attendees can receive a 10% off “Gordon Parks” hotel rate for at the Sleep Inn Hotel and Suites 302 E. Wall St. Call 620-223-2555 to reserve and ask for the Celebration discount or go online by using the reservation link below. Check out visitfortscott.com for more hotel and lodging options.

http://www.choicehotels.com/ires/en-US/html/ArrivalInfo?hotel=KS190&srp=LGPARK&pu=no

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

                  

 

 

 

This 20th annual celebration was supported in part by Bourbon County Arts Council, Evergy, Fort Scott Community College Greyhound Foundation, Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas, Humanities Kansas and Peerless Products.

 

         

 

                 

 

 

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Food, Fort Scott, Gordon Parks Museum

Gordon Parks Celebration Dance: October 6

Leave a comment

Sending on behalf of Chamber Member Gordon Parks Museum….

Celebration Dance Party!

Gordon Parks Museum presents “Celebration Dance Party” featuring KC All Stars!

KC All Starts was voted “Best Band In Kansas City” by KCMB-TV for the last four years in a row!

Friday, October 6th 2023

The River Room

3 W. Oak St.

Fort Scott, Ks

Doors Open at 6:30pm

Performance at 7:30pm

Tickets: $25 each or $30 at the door

Cash Bar Available

Tickets available at the Gordon Park Museum, online at gordonparkcenter.org, or call 620.223.2700 ext. 5850.
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701
Fort Scott

Tanya Glessner: Fort Scott Author of The Light You Bring

Leave a comment
Submitted graphic.
Tanya Glessner is a mother, grandmother, wife, and a child of God, she said.
“I am passionate about giving a voice to those who are struggling and doing their best to overcome addiction and grief,” she said. “I love mentoring and connecting with people.”
Her first Christian Inspirational book was published last week entitled The Light You Bring.
“I decided to write about my life to help share how God is able to take what seems to be a hopeless situation and use it for His glory,” she said. “No one is too far gone to be saved.”
“I chose the title The Light You Bring because we all carry God within us,” she said. “Every act of kindness, every loving word is God’s light reaching out from within us into someone else.”
“I actually began writing this book in prison,” she said. “I started journaling while I was incarcerated and pulled from there. This has been a work in progress over the last 10 years.”
She has another book in the beginning stages.
“I am also putting together some other things to begin writing a new book after the first of the year and I will be reaching out to the public for their God stories to add to it when I begin,” she said. “I will make a public post asking people to email their stories after the first of the year on my The Light You Bring Facebook Page:
Fort Scott is mentioned on the back cover of the paperback edition of her book.
The back cover of Tanya Glessner’s new book, The Light You Bring. Submitted graphic.
To purchase her book:
Paperback:
Kindle:
Glessner retired from being a cosmetologist at the end of August.
“My husband and I wanted to make more time to focus on our coffee roasting company Crooked Cactus Coffee Co,” she said. “When he retires… we hope to open a little shop somewhere and sell our coffee. As of now we are roasting and selling from home.”
Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee at Fair Grounds on Sept. 28

Leave a comment

ANNOUNCING THIS WEEK’S
CHAMBER COFFEE

Join us for Chamber Coffee hosted by

Pioneer Harvest Fiesta

Thursday, September 28th

8am

2102 S. Huntington Blvd

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by the Pioneer Harvest Fiesta, Thursday, September 28th at 8 a.m. located at the Yeager Building on the Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 2102 S. Huntington Blvd. Coffee and light refreshments will be served in addition to door prize drawing.

The Pioneer Harvest Fiesta will kick off with the parade through Downtown Thursday, October 5th at 6 p.m. Then, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, October 6 through October 8th, the event will feature one of the largest steam and gas engine and tractor shows in the four-state region as well as corn husking, straw baling, rock crushing, and sawmill demonstrations. The Fiesta will also include a flea market, quilt show, food vendors, and live entertainment.

Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the host business or organization.

ANNOUNCING THIS WEEK’S
CHAMBER COFFEE

Join us for Chamber Coffee hosted by

Pioneer Harvest Fiesta

Thursday, September 28th

8am

2102 S. Huntington Blvd

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by the Pioneer Harvest Fiesta, Thursday, September 28th at 8 a.m. located at the Yeager Building on the Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 2102 S. Huntington Blvd. Coffee and light refreshments will be served in addition to door prize drawing.

The Pioneer Harvest Fiesta will kick off with the parade through Downtown Thursday, October 5th at 6 p.m. Then, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, October 6 through October 8th, the event will feature one of the largest steam and gas engine and tractor shows in the four-state region as well as corn husking, straw baling, rock crushing, and sawmill demonstrations. The Fiesta will also include a flea market, quilt show, food vendors, and live entertainment.

Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the host business or organization.

Click here for their website!

We hope to see you there!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members
shown below!
FORT SCOTT AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
620-223-3566

Facebook Twitter

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

Click here for their website!

We hope to see you there!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members
shown below!
FORT SCOTT AREA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE
620-223-3566

Facebook Twitter

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

Fort Scott, Jobs, Schools

New USD234 Transportation Director: Charlie Hensley

Leave a comment

Charlie Hensley is the new Transportation Director for USD 234

Charlie’s background- “Joined the Army in July of 1989 right out of high school. I was stationed at Ft. Benning, GA and assigned to 197th Infantry Division, 4/41 Field Artillery. Shortly after, I deployed to Iraq in Operation Desert Shield/Storm. After several years of active duty my term ended and I returned to Washington State where I started a new career in the Automotive Industry as a painter and Tow Truck driver. After being in the automotive industry for several more years, I joined the United States Army Reserve and changed careers again to become a United States Army Reserve Administrator, assigned to the 385th Transportation Battalion out of the Port of Tacoma in Washington. While serving in the Army Reserve, I was deployed again, this time to the Port of Kuwait where we undertook various Transportation Duties on land and at sea.”

Why Charlie enjoys this new position & what he hopes to bring to it-
“As the Transportation Director for USD 234, I really enjoy working with the community,
staff, and especially the children. Our kids, as well as the Bus Drivers’ safety is of the
utmost importance as well as getting our children to and from school. Being a bus driver
is a thankless job and I hope to change that. If we all come together, we can and will
accomplish the mission.”

Charlie & his family-
I was born in Barstow, CA and raised in Washington State. Through my years, I have had several different careers from sweeping floors to overseeing millions of dollars of Military Equipment, to include large tugs and floating cranes. I met my wife while working on Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA in 2010. Moved to the Fort Scott area in 2017 and I joined the USD 234 School District working with the High School kids in 2021. Our goal is to retire in the area. Combined, we have 5 children (3 out of the home),2 dogs and 2 cats. I enjoy hunting and fishing, especially river fishing when possible.

A message from Charlie-
“With the world in these trying times, we need more smiles and less hate. Together as a community we can make a difference; separated, we will crumble.”

Submitted by
Haley Jones
Administrative Assistant/Communications Coordinator
Fort Scott USD 234
620-223-0800 Ext 1119

Fort Scott

Benefit For Christmas Baskets This Saturday, Sept. 30

Leave a comment

Sending on behalf of Chamber Member Elks Lodge 579….

Golf Tournament for Christmas Baskets

Elks Lodge 579 is having a Benefit Golf Tournament for Christmas Baskets!

4-Person Scramble

$60.00 per person

Saturday, September 30th

10:00am Registration

11:00am Shotgun Start

Lunch will be provided.

Sign up by noon on Thursday, September 28th

Call the Lodge to sign up: 620.223.5821
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

Entertainment, Fort Scott

What’s Happening in Fort Scott! September 22nd Weekly Newsletter

Leave a comment

 

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Daily Guided Tours: 10am & 1pm

Special activities all this weekend! See link below.

Visit your National Park!

Trolley Tours of Fort Scott

50-minute narrated historical tour

Every Friday & Saturday on the hour

Fridays 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

Saturdays 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

$6 adults, $4 12 & under, leaves from the Chamber

Click this link: The Artificers

October pottery class/workshop

schedule, a creative space for all ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall.

9/22 ~ Friday Night Concert in the Park, Heritage Park Pavilion, this event is free and all are welcomed, if inclement weather concerts will be at Common Ground Coffee Co. 12 E. Wall St.

9/23 ~ Farmer’s Market at Skubitz Plaza,

8am-12pm

9/23 ~ Tacos and Tailgates at River Front Park, door prizes and giveaways, custom trophies in 7 classes, $20 to enter, open to all trucks and SUVs, click here for more info!

9/27 ~ Wednesday Writers at Hedgehog.INK! Bookstore, every Wednesday from 1:30pm-3pm, click here for more info!

9/27 ~ Pizza Republic Wednesdays – 10% of sales go to FSHS Tiger Booster Club, restaurant hours are form 11am-9pm but the fundraiser is in the evenings from 5pm-9pm, click here for more info!

9/28 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by Pioneer Harvest Fiesta, Fort Scott Fair Grounds, 8am

9/29 ~ The Artificers presents Darrell Williams Opening & Reception, 6-9pm, click here for more info!

9/29-10/31~ Scarefest Haunted House & Clark Street Lights Display, $1 donation to enter 5+, entry comes with free popcorn and cotton candy,

see flyer below for more info!

9/30 ~ FortFest23, 400 N. National (Riverfront Park), BLUES FESTIVAL, free games/live music/BBQ Contest/Food Trucks/ FUN/ and much more, bring chairs and blankets as limited seating, free will donation, click here for more info!

9/30 ~ Special Saturday Chamber Coffee at Kansas Rocks Recreation Park, join us at 8:30am to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of KRRP, click here for more info!

9/30 ~ Red Bull Imagination sponsored by

E3 Ranch, click here for tickets!

10/3 ~ Downtown Meet & Greet at City State Bank, 202 State Ave, 8am-9am. Click here for more info!

10/5-7 ~ 20th Annual Gordon Parks Celebration, great events and sessions to celebrate 20 wonderful years, click here for the full schedule of events!

10/5 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by the Gordon Parks Museum, 2108 Horton St, 8am.

10/5 ~ Pioneer Harvest Parade in Downtown Fort Scott, 6pm, click here to register a float or for more info!

10/6-8 ~ Pioneer Harvest Fiesta 67th Anniversary, one of the oldest steam & gas engine shows in Kansas, click here for more info!

10/6 ~ Mural Unveiling – 1st Kansas Colored Infantry Mural, the mural will be on display at the north downtown building located at 9 South Main St. near Skubitz Plaza, 4-4:30pm, click here for more info!

10/7 ~ Kansas Crossing presents Hairball in Concert, must be 21+ attend, click here for more info.

SAVE THE DATE:

10/14 ~ Royal-Tea Party hosted by FSHS Thespians, $10 per child (must be accompanied by an adult), each child can have a treat and make a project with each character, feel free to dress up too!

10/18 ~ Community Connection hosted by Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce,11:45am-1pm, lunch can be reserved for $10 prior to the event, panelist updates from local governmental entities

10/28 ~ Halloween Parade & Festivities in Downtown Fort Scott, open to all ages, parade will begin at 11am starting at La Hacienda heading south to 2nd street then back around to the City Scales building, after the parade pizza and a drink will be handed out to kids in costumes. The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is asking for donations and businesses that are willing to pass out candy downtown, if you are interested email [email protected].

_________

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.

Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
[email protected]
fortscott.com

In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.

We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?

Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!

Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!

Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

Tacos & Tailgates 2023!

Join us for a Special Chamber Coffee hosted by Kansas Rocks Recreation Park!

Red Bull Imagination hosted by E3!

FortFest23 at Riverfront Park!

Downtown Meet & Greet at City State Bank!

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema
THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Facebook Share This Email
Twitter Share This Email
LinkedIn Share This Email
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Exercise, Fort Scott

Introducing Gravel Kansas: A Cycling Initiative that Redefines Adventure and Connection [Kansas

Leave a comment

Gravel Kansas is thrilled to announce the official launch of its innovative cycling initiative, dedicated to crafting unforgettable gravel cycling routes across the picturesque landscapes of
The State That Made Gravel Famous©.

This exciting venture is returning to gravel roots by merging the thrill of gravel riding with the power of storytelling to foster a deep connection between cyclists and the remarkable places they traverse.

At the heart of Gravel Kansas is a commitment to celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and stories that define the state. Through
a meticulously curated selection of gravel routes, cyclists will embark on journeys that weave through historic towns, rolling prairies, and breathtaking vistas. Each route serves as a gateway
to discovery, leading riders to hidden gems and immersing them in the tapestry of Kansas’ diverse landscapes.

“We are thrilled to introduce Gravel Kansas to cyclists around the world,” said LeLan Dains, Founding Chair of Gravel Kansas. “Our initiative is all about forging a profound bond between
people, places, and stories. With every pedal stroke, cyclists will experience the beauty, history, and character of Kansas in an entirely new way.”

This project wouldn’t be possible without funding support from Kansas Tourism.

Locally, “Bourbon on the Rocks” is the name given to the group of gravel cycling routes in Bourbon County. Those routes are anywhere from 7-60 miles. Bourbon on the Rocks routes include beginner routes that are family oriented, intermediate routes (not for the faint of heart), and a couple of advanced routes for serious gravel grinders that want to be “punished” on a ride.

 

Fort Scott Public Relations & Tourism Director, Jackson Tough met with LeLan Dains at the 2021 Kansas tourism conference. Jackson said, “we started brainstorming ideas about a statewide
tourism push to promote Kansas as the gravel cycling capital of the world. We organized a committee and recruited other communities.”

At the same time, Tough began working with Tayton Majors, Business Retention & Community Initiatives Manager for Bourbon County Regional Economic Development on the project.
“Tayton was a great contributor in helping to design, describe, and map our variety of a dozen gravel bicycling routes within Bourbon County, all starting and ending in or near Fort Scott.

Each of the “Bourbon on the Rocks” routes offers a payoff—whether it’s a million-dollar view, a story of local lore, or a historic feature. To view Bourbon County routes simply go to www.GravelKansas.com, click “find routes” then “southeast.” Bourbon County is at the top of
those listings.

Tough said “we anticipate even more routes being added locally and from around the state. I’m excited to see the project’s website, gravelks.com come to fruition. It’s a great step to get more
gravel cycling enthusiasts to come to Bourbon County and the state.”

For more information about Gravel Kansas and to explore the inaugural routes, please visit gravelks.com.

Follow Gravel Kansas on Facebook for updates, stories, and exciting cycling content.
###

About Gravel Kansas:
Gravel Kansas is a pioneering cycling initiative that creates iconic gravel routes across the
picturesque landscapes of Kansas. Combining the thrill of gravel cycling with the power of
storytelling, Gravel Kansas aims to foster a deep connection between cyclists and the
remarkable places they explore. Through meticulously curated routes and engaging narratives,
Gravel Kansas celebrates the heritage, culture, and stories that define the state. For more
information, visit gravelks.com.
https://gravelks.com/

Fort Scott, Government

FS Design Review Advisory Board Meeting on Sept. 28

Leave a comment

 

When: September, 28th

Time: 4:00 pm

Location: City Hall

Topic for discussion: Certificate of Appropriateness for signage outside of 12 N. Main in Fort Scott submitted for consideration. The meeting is open to the public and the recording is available to watch on YouTube after the meeting is held.

 

Submitted by:

 

Mary Wyatt

Community Development Director

City of Fort Scott

Art, Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

The Artificers In October

Leave a comment

October is almost here! Check out the calendar below for all the

classes and events happening this next Month!
October Classes Here!

Master Artist

Brandy Evans

Mixed Media Sculpture

Brandy is a self-taught artist specializing in tiny taxidermy.

Her creations capture her love of antiques and her whimsy sense of humor. Her one of a kind creations have been sold worldwide and she has inspired others to explore their own artistic ability and desire to create. She enjoys a loyal following on Etsy, FB and IG and her Pocket Full of Heirlooms brand is known around the world.

Master Artist Classes!

We have one class Brandy Evans will be teaching October 7th!

Join us for a tiny taxidermy class at The Artificers!

Learn mouse taxidermy from our friend, Brandy Evans, of Pocket Full of Heirlooms. Participants will take a home their own taxidermy mouse creation.

Cost $165; includes feeder, mouse, taxidermy blocks props, scalpel, gloves, and step-by-step instruction.

This class is nonrefundable and non-transferable. Class is ages fourteen and up! We can’t wait to see you there!
Sign up Here!

Fall is Here!

so take some of our fun fall themed classes in October!
October Classes Here!
Check out all of our awesome classes here!
Area News, Fort Scott

Results from the Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation 4th Annual Fort Scott Golf Classic

Leave a comment
1st place A Flight Team of Jake Scott, Michael Hatcher, Jan Remington, and Wally Maples. Submitted photos.

Saturday, September 16th was a perfect day for the Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation to hold their 4th Annual Fort Scott Golf Classic at the beautiful Woodland Hills Golf Course. It was fantastic golfing
weather; the day started in the 60’s and stayed cool throughout the morning and early afternoon. Play began at 9 am with 17 teams.

Prizes were given out to 1st and 2nd places in A, B, and C Flights. The winners were: A Flight 1st Place – the team of Wally Maples, Michael Hatcher, Jake Scott, Jan Remington; A Flight 2nd Place – the team of Larry Alexander, Marcus Alexander, Michael Alexander, and Bill Fiscus; B Flight 1st Place – the team of Amanda Fly, Dustin Fly, Matthew McDaniel, and Rodd Nelson; and B Flight 2nd Place – the team of Allen Bukowski, Cody Clayton, Kenny Allen, and Less Russell; C Flight 1st Place – the team from the Lowell
Milken Center of Norm Conard, Donna Bowman, Ty Covey, and Laney Covey; and C Flight 2nd place – the team of Greg Gauss, Jeremy Chambers, Kyle Day, and Justin Dempsey.

Along with the three flights, prizes were handed out for Closest to the Pin and Longest Drive. Melvin Prince won Closest to the Pin. Longest Drive prizes were awarded to Jake Scott and Randy Thurston.

Woodland Hills Golf Course sponsored one of the Closest to the Pin contests. Players had the chance to play a few hole games on the course such as Paul Bunyon; Hole-in-One Trouble Game; and Betcha Can’t Get on the Green.
At the end of the tournament, door prizes were given out to several lucky golfers. The door prizes included: garden decor and candles from Heidrick’s True Value; a grill set courtesy of Kale Nelson State
Farm; Igloo Coolers and Umbrella courtesy of SEK Financial; T-shirts and patches courtesy of Fort Scott Munitions; pens and bags courtesy of Stewart Realty; Gift Certificates to Miller Feed, La Hacienda, Papa Don’s Pizza, Brickstreet Barbecue, and Common Ground Coffee; and tickets to Grand Country Music Hall
in Branson courtesy of Fort Scott Broadcasting.

1st place B Flight Team of Dustin Fly, Amanda Fly, Matthew McDaniel, and Rodd Nelson

Along with the door prizes, a raffle drawing was held for a fire pit which was donated by Niece Products of Fort Scott. The winner of the raffle was Laney Covey.
The tournament’s corporate sponsors were: Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes; Heartland HomeCare; and Kansas Communications. The tournament hole sponsors were: Care to Share Cancer Support Group; Cheney Witt Chapel; Cobalt Boats; Don’s Spirits and Wines, LLC; Diehl, Banwart, &
Bolton; Heidrick True Value; Holmtown Pub; Konantz-Cheney Chapel; Labconco; Medicalodge of Fort Scott; Stewart Realty Co; and Wise Accounting. G & W Foods of Fort Scott, SEK Financial, and
Medicalodge of Fort Scott were goodie bag sponsors.

All money raised from the event goes toward the Foundation’s mission of providing quality and affordable homes for our neighbors with intellectual/developmental disabilities in the eight counties of
Allen, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson. Since 2001, the Foundation has built six houses and acquired eight houses and a duplex. Four of these homes are
located in Fort Scott and are home to 24 of our neighbors with intellectual/developmental disabilities.

“Without the generosity of our communities, this fun event could not have been held. Thank you to all the golfers who participated as well as to our event sponsors: corporate, hole, and in-kind. This
tournament would not have been possible without the support of our sponsors. It is friends like you that allow us to provide services to our neighbors with I/DD and to help them achieve the quality of life they seek. Thank you” stated Special Projects Coordinator, Tricia Campbell.

Lowell Milken team of Norm Conard, Donna Bowman, Ty Covey and Laney Covey. Submitted photos.