Memorial Hall steps are cordoned off because of mortar falling from over the steps. Visitors should enter through the south entrance on Third Street.
The local Daughters of the Revolution, Molly Foster Berry Chapter, has set up a traveling exhibit on the American Revolutionary War at Memorial Hall, Third and National Avenue. There is no admission.
One of the information banners. Submitted photo.
Until June 15, the exhibit can be viewed by entering the south door, across the street from the Methodist Church from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.It is a self-guided tour. The Chapter members are sitting in shifts at the exhibit.
“Our chapter is about promoting patriotism,” Barbara Ritter, spokeswoman for the group said.
The American Revolution Experience Exhibit comprises 12 roll-up, graphic banners, each measuring 7’ high by 3’ wide, and three kiosks, comprised of IPads and stands, according to its website.
The Molly Foster Berry chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was organized on October 19, 1911. The chapter is named after its first regent, Miss Frances Hall’s Revolutionary War ancestor, Samuel Berry’s wife. Members, called Daughters, are direct descendants of a Revolutionary War Patriot.
This chapter, along with the American Legion, was instrumental in raising funds for the Memorial Hall. Because of this fundraising, a special suite in the hall was given for their use forever.
“D.A.R members are active women passionate about community service, preserving American History, educating children as well as honoring and supporting those who serve our nation,” Ritter said.
The Daughters of the American Revolution will celebrate nation-wide the 250th Anniversary of the Revolutionary War in 2026.
“We would like to get together with other civic organizations to plan out activities for this event,” Ritter said. “The nation celebrated in 1976 with many activities.
If anyone is interested in more information, contact her at [email protected], or 913.636.4892
Highlights of what this chapter has done since its inception:
They started a Red Cross Chapter Unit in which they knitted socks and over 130 sweaters to donate to the men in service, donated
money and goods to be distributed to newly arriving immigrants on Ellis Island, were charged with the care of the Block House, which is now part of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, recognized Bourbon County good citizens, planted trees, donated bedding, beds and food to the Goodlander Home, distributed American Flags and donated books to the library.
“And more recently a Vietnam Veteran Ceremony, recognizing our Bourbon County Vietnam Veterans with a certificate, lapel pin and dinner,” Ritter said.
Currently, the group has 26 members, two associate members and two awaiting documentation.
One of the 12 banners in the exhibit. Submitted photo.
At the invitation of Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, Nickelson Lee Davis of Fort Scott High School, son of Jason and Nicole Davis, was selected to attend the 41st Annual Governor’s Scholars Awards Program on May 5, 2024, in Topeka.
The recognition ceremony honors the top academic one-percent of Kansas high school seniors. Scholars are selected from accredited public and private schools in the state.
“These high school seniors have shown dedication in their studies and a commitment to learning. They’ve earned this honor, and I want to congratulate them on this achievement,” Kelly said. “We also should recognize their families, teachers and mentors for helping these outstanding students achieve their academic goals.”
This program is coordinated for the governor by the Confidence in Kansas Public Education Task Force, which was formed 41 years ago to strengthen confidence in public education. The following organizations are members of the task force: American Association of University Women, Kansas State Board of Education, Kansas Association of School Boards, Kansas Congress of Parents and Teachers, Kansas State Department of Education, Kansas State High School Activities Association, Kansas National Education Association, Kansas League of Women Voters and United School Administrators of Kansas.
As a distinguished Kansas Governor’s Scholar, Davis was given the opportunity to recognize an exceptional educator in his life with a Teacher of Influence certificate. Davis chose to recognize FSHS math teacher, Morgan Felt.
Davis is a 2024 graduate at FSHS and is attending the University of Kansas, School of Engineering in August of 2024.
From Citizens for the ER to the people who compaigned for and the voters who overwhelmingly passed the ER tax: Thank You.
Your messages are clear. The message to providers that you want and will financially support an ER. The message to business, industry and individuals that Bourbon County is relevant and working to meet your needs. And most importantly, the message that you care for each other. Well Done!
While we don’t yet have an ER, this tax opens the door so when opportunity knocks Bourbon County can say come in. Without it we had no chance.
In small towns and rural areas, new folks bring big changes that matter a lot. When people move to different states or areas, they have all sorts of reasons for choosing those locations. Understanding these reasons is key to knowing how newcomers help places grow.
Newcomers aren’t just faces in a crowd—they’re the ones who bring new energy and ideas to small towns. Experts have studied and seen that, when fresh faces show up, it can be like a breath of fresh air for communities.
You might wonder why someone chooses to move to a specific town or state. Some come for jobs or better work opportunities, while others might move for the beautiful landscapes or a slower pace of life. Some pick a place because of family ties or friends already living there. Understanding these reasons helps communities see what makes them attractive to new folks.
When newcomers arrive, they’re like a boost for small towns. They often bring new skills, different perspectives, and lots of enthusiasm. They bring a bit of their own spice to the mix, making things more interesting. And it’s not just about them moving in; it’s about what they do when they get there.
Some newcomers dive right in—they join clubs, volunteer, start businesses, and get involved in making decisions for their community. This isn’t just good for the town; it’s good for everyone. They bring fresh ideas, help businesses grow, and make the place feel more connected; others may need a bit more of a “pull” from others in the community to come out of their shell.
Understanding what makes newcomers feel at home is vitally important. Maybe it’s about creating more job opportunities, inventing fun events, improving schools. Knowing these things helps make the place more welcoming and helps keep these new faces around.
A few ways your community can become more welcoming for newcomers:
Start by listening: Both newcomers and longtime residents can feel alienated by change and unwelcome in their community.
Create “Do It Together” opportunities: Bring residents together through common projects. It’s an opportunity to bring people together through the arts, sports, volunteering, or myriad other ways that provide a chance for neighbors to find common ground.
Build a community-wide Welcoming agenda: Communities can create their own welcoming plan and bring together different sectors—government, business, community, faith, etc. Remember, when new people come in, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas. And when they feel welcomed and understood, they stick about and help make things better for everyone.
In the end, newcomers can be the secret ingredient that makes small towns better. They bring new ideas and energy, making these places feel like home for everyone. When new people come in, they bring fresh perspectives and ideas, but when they feel welcomed and understood, they stick around and help make things better for everyone.
For More information, contact Community Vitality Agent, Amanda Clasen at [email protected] or at 620-244-3826.
Southwind Extension District Walk Kansas Connection Event to Be Held in Fort Scott
Spring is officially here, which means it is almost time for Walk Kansas!
This year, the Southwind Extension District will be hosting their Walk Kansas Connection Event at the Belltown Trail in Riverfront Park (400 N. National Ave.) in Fort Scott on April 13th at 9 AM.
Get outside, get moving, and get connected with other Walk Kansas participants as they walk this scenic trail together!
Everyone who attends the event will be entered to win a Walk Kansas prize package including a Walk Kansas travel mug, tote bag, and keychain, as well as a copy of a book which goes along with this year’s Walk Kansas theme of “making healthy habits stick.”
There is no extra cost to participate in this event, but you must be registered for Walk Kansas to attend so be sure to visit WalkKansas.org to get signed up before the eight-week program kicks off on March 31st.
If you would prefer to complete a paper registration form, call the Southwind Extension District at 620-365-2242 to request one or stop by their office in the Bourbon County Courthouse to pick one up.
For more information, contact Clara Misenhelter with the Southwind Extension District at (620) 365-2242 or [email protected].
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Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service
K – State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
Due to the icy road conditions the courthouse will be closed today, so tonight’s meeting has been rescheduled for tomorrow at 5:30 p.m. Attached is the agenda for the Bourbon County Commission Meeting for Tuesday, January 23, 2024.
My earliest memory of feeling sorry and sad for someone who was considered a misfit was hearing the song “Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer.” Music has always deeply affected me. The specific lyrics I’m referring to are: “All of the other reindeer used to laugh and call him names. They wouldn’t let poor Rudolph play in any reindeer games.“ My little child heart was tender and compassionate and the thought of Rudolph being treated as a misfit, just because he was different, really hurt me.
I think that the manner in which this Christmas song affected me as a young child is partially what Jesus was referring to in these scriptures: “Jesus called a little child to Him and put the child among them. Then He said, ’I tell you the truth, unless you turn from your sins and become like little children, you will never get into the Kingdom of Heaven. So anyone who becomes as humble as this little child is the greatest in the Kingdom of Heaven‘“ (Matthew 18:2-4.) Jesus taught that all believers must be childlike (innocent, trusting, tender). He is not condoning a childish (immature) lifestyle; there’s a ton of difference between childlike and childish.
Jesus said, “…I have not come to call respectable people, but outcasts” (Matthew 9:13 TEV.) If you don’t feel like you fit in, be comforted in knowing that Jesus came for you too. You’re not left out — you’re wanted and included. Jesus loves you enough that He was willing to die for you so you could have an overflowing life of God’s goodness. The Prince of Peace came to piece together the broken lives of outcasts, misfits, and sinners. Jesus makes it clear that all are sinners who need to come to Him for salvation. However, those who think they’re already on the right path will reject Jesus’ invitation to a restored life. Jesus’ unmerited mercy transforms everyone who comes to Him for salvation.
If friends have thrown you under the bus, Jesus will reach under it and pull you out. If family have rejected you and made you feel like you don’t fit in, Jesus will accept you. If life has slammed you to the floor, Jesus will pick you up and walk with you all the way to heaven. If you think Jesus’ true-blue promise of restoration is too good to be true, just ask Him and find out for yourself. “…I [Jesus] came that they may have life, and have it abundantly” (John 10:10 RSV.)
Whether you’re an outcast, misfit, sinner, or the nicest person in the whole world, Jesus came for you. His own mother, the virgin Mary, was ostracized when the news broke out that she was with child and unmarried. Although she and Joseph knew that the child within her was conceived by the Holy Spirit, society rejected the truth of this supernatural birth. Nevertheless, Mary praised the Lord, realized she was blessed, and delivered the Messiah according to God’s perfect plan of redemption.
Jesus loves you without exception and He will accept you as you are. You don’t have to try to be righteous first; simply accept His invitation and come to Him in honest confession and repentance. The Savior is an expert at taking the broken pieces of outcasts, misfits, and sinners and making them whole and holy.
The Key: Jesus can make a misfit fit perfectly on earth and in the Kingdom of Heaven.
TOPEKA – As severe winter weather conditions continue impacting Kansas roadways, Governor Kelly announced today that her recent disaster declaration temporarily lifts certain hours of service regulations typically imposed on commercial motor vehicles.
In accordance with 49 C.F.R. 390.23(b), the disaster declaration made on January 8, 2024, temporarily lifts the hours of service regulations found in 49 C.F.R. 395.3-5 for motor carriers or drivers operating commercial motor vehicles so long as the motor carriers or drivers are providing direct assistance during the emergency.
The temporary lifting of the regulations lasts until the emergency ends or 14 days from the date of the disaster declaration, whichever is less.
“Temporarily lifting these regulations ensures necessary supplies and relief from the extreme winter weather can reach communities as quickly as possible,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “I encourage all Kansans to use caution over the coming days, including reconsidering travel, to be safe and warm.”
Bourbon County CASA, founded in Bourbon County in May 1990, provides trained community volunteers to advocate for abused and neglected children involved in the Court system. Our mission is to advocate for children involved in the Bourbon County Court system, to secure a safe, nurturing environment for them, to increase community awareness and responsiveness to the needs of those children, and to provide objective information to the Court.
We currently have 20 volunteers and are assigned to 24 children here in Bourbon County.
Volunteers work tirelessly on behalf of their assigned child, relentlessly advocating for them, and providing the Court with the child’s perspective, wants, and wishes. They accomplish this by meeting with their assigned child regularly, contacting all involved parties in a child’s life, and advocating for their child through a written report to the Court making recommendations on what they believe to be in the child’s best interest.
Our program is always in need of additional volunteers and financial support to continue our mission. We are responsible for 60% of our budget to be raised locally through community support.
This year’s fundraiser “Change a Child’s Story” is held Friday, December 8 at the home of Mitch and Colleen Quick. Reservations can be made through today, via email to [email protected].
Thaddeus and Kelly Perry, owners of Perry’s Pork Rinds. Submitted photo.
Thaddeus and Kelly Perry, owners of Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store, Bronson, were recently awarded the Southeast Kansas Region Award of Merit from the Kansas Department of Commerce.
“Both Thaddeus and I saw it as an honor to be nominated,” Kelly Perry said. “I have no idea who nominated us. I literally cried when I received the notice letter. It’s very humbling that the community continues to support us.”
“The store has brought people in, that are traveling through,” she said. “We have a lot of folks who just want to check us out”
When people stop in the store they advocate for the community and Fort Scott, telling them about the attractions and services that are available, she said.
In a letter from Kansas Governor Laura Kelly, she commended the Perrys for their outstanding retail service.
The award is through the 2023 To The Stars: Kansas Business Awards.
“Celebrating your business and its outstanding contributions to the community, state economy, and people of Kansas,” the letter stated. “Your hard work is appreciated and worthy of recognition.”
The business was nominated because it created jobs, products, and services, and has been innovating and diversifying the local marketplace, building community identity, and more, according to the governor’s letter.
The business demonstrated “tenacity, determination, and creativity that was needed to persevere, regardless of the circumstances,” Governor Kelly said in the letter.
The Perrys started out producing pork rind snacks from their home in Bronson, a small town of 300 people in western Bourbon County, in 2017.
They opened a specialty store in 2022 in Bronson to sell their products and other food, including fresh produce, which is needed when one lives 20 miles from a large grocery store.
“We also now have Perry’s Produce Boxes available one time a month,” Kelly said. “Pick-up is at Bids & Dib (in Fort Scott). Purchases are all done via our website www.PerrysPorkRinds.com and customers can select pick-up in Bronson or Ft. Scott. Boxes are each just $18 and usually have double that amount of money worth of produce. Pick up details on our website and FB page.”
One other specialty food is fudge, made on-site.
“The fudge is made by Dee Byrd and I,” Kelly said.
In October 2023 they opened a Recreational Vehicle Park at their site on Hwy. 54, which runs through the town. This venture is to supply accommodations for agri-tourism to the region.
This month they provided honor meals to 59 veterans in their storefront on Veteran’s Day. “We provided brisket, smoked by Thaddeus, loaded baked potatoes, and baked beans. We plan to do this again next year,” she said.
They currently have five full-time and one part-time employee.
