Category Archives: Youth

Young Entrepreneur: Dancer Kenna Miles

This is part of series on young entrepreneurs in our community.
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Submitted graphic.
Kenna Miles is a 17-year-old Fort Scott High School student and Fort Scott native.
She is offering dance classes on Sundays starting on January 12 at Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.
For more information call 620.644.8050.
More details are given on Kenna’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61571544970552
She and, Leslie Godden, her momanager, are offering drop-in classes, to remove the commitment of a monthly class.
“We know life is crazy, kids do many events and sports so we can’t always make every class time,” Godden said. “This way you can decide which class you can attend and miss out on those other full fees and obligations. Kenna is also a wrestler and is busy with wrestling season. This is also why for now we are choosing Sunday classes.”
Class️es are for girls and boys ages 2 to teen and are $20 each.
“We do NOT believe in an age defining your athlete’s ability,” Godden said. “Every dancer grows, develops, and learns at their own rate. For now, we are going to have three classes: Tinys are  2-6-year-olds, then  7-12 years, and also 13 years and up. You are not required to be in any of these classes just because you are the age of the class. If you are able to move classes due to skill – you will be moved. The key to learning is pushing yourself and getting out of your comfort zone.”
” Anyone and EVERYONE is welcome,” Godden said.  If a child has a disability “we probably need to know a little about the disability so we can help figure out a way to be able to help the student without singling them out or causing a distraction to the rest of the students. We would also offer a short private possibly to see how they do and if it’s something they’d be comfortable with. Then we would be better equipped to see how we can make their experience the best possible!”
“We will offer a sibling discount if more than 1 child wants to dance,” Godden said.
“Kenna has danced since age 4 competitively around the U.S.,” said her mother Godden. “I could tell when she was little she would dance around all the time. I would say she is gifted, it always came naturally to her.”
Kenna said she started dancing because of her mom’s friend, Brenna Stewart. “She only had boys and she put me in a dance class. After she passed away,  I did it for her. I wouldn’t be where I am with dancing, if not for her.”
Kenna interviewed and was on TV’s Nickelodeon show at age 10, and this was her first dancing job.
At age 12  she was involved in Abby Lee Miller’s dance competition TV show, at 14 she danced at a Kansas City Chief’s half-time game with their cheerleaders, after training for six months.
This past summer she created choreography for the Northeast High School Vikings dance team, creating four dances for them to use throughout the year.
Her plans for the future:
“I am going to try to get into a Division 1 College for a dance team or try out for the Dallas Cowboy Cheerleaders,” Kenna said. “I eventually was to travel and dance with music artists and later to open a dance studio and continue teaching.”

Applications for 2025 Boys State of Kansas Session Open


 

January 7, 2025 — The American Legion Boys State of Kansas is accepting applications for its 2025 session. The event is set to be held Sunday, June 1, through Saturday, June 7, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This will be the program’s 33rd consecutive session at KSU and 87th overall.

Traditionally, Kansas Boys State has been for individuals who will complete their junior year of high school in the spring just prior to the start of each session. However, the ALBSK program will again expand the pool of applicants for this year’s session to also include those who will complete their sophomore year of high school this spring.

 

The American Legion Boys State of Kansas program provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government, and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.

The cost to attend the Boys State of Kansas program is $375; however, in many instances, sponsors pay the majority of the fees, with the delegate or his family paying $50. Those wishing to attend the 2025 session should visit ksbstate.org to apply. The deadline to apply for the 2025 program is Wednesday, April 30; applications are accepted after that date, but on a space-available basis. In addition, those who register by Friday, Jan. 31, will receive a $50 early-bird discount.

Kansas Boys State attendees are eligible to receive a three-hour course credit (Introduction to Political Science [POLSC 110]) through Kansas State University, as well as earn merit badges to attain the Eagle Scout rank through Boy Scouts of America. Additionally, attendees can apply to win a Samsung American Legion Scholarship. The American Legion Department of Kansas finalist is guaranteed to receive a $1,250 scholarship, with the opportunity to receive up to $10,000 as a national scholar.

 

Potential sponsors, such as American Legion posts, civic organizations, businesses, clubs and interested individuals should visit ksbstate.org/sponsor-a-delegate. Questions? Contact the ALBSK at [email protected] or (785) 550-6492.

 

For complete information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas program, visit ksbstate.org. For information about the 2025 American Legion Auxiliary Sunflower Girls State, which will be held Sunday, June 1, through Friday, June 6, at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, visit ksgirlsstate.org.

— #KSBoysState —

 

The American Legion Boys State of Kansas is an interactive simulation that teaches high school seniors-to-be the value of democracy and civic duty. Participants form mock governments and campaign for positions at the city, county and state levels. After the elections, participants find out firsthand the difficult decisions made daily by those in government through a series of challenging simulations. Delegates, nominated to attend by their high school counselors and other influential people in their lives, are sponsored by American Legion posts and various civic organizations from across the state. All delegates demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities in student government, athletics and/or other activities.

The Boys State program was founded by Legionnaires Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card in Illinois in 1935, and was first held in Kansas two years later in Wichita. The Kansas program moved to the University of Kansas in Lawrence in 1963 and remained there until 1991. The following year, it moved to its current location at Kansas State University in Manhattan. For more information about the American 

FSHS Thespians Announce Spring Play Auditions

 

 

Fort Scott High School Thespians announce that auditions for the spring play “And Then They Came for Me – Remembering the World of Anne Frank” by James Still are from 6:30-8:30 p.m. on Jan. 13 OR 14 in the FSHS Auditorium.

 

The production is a multimedia performance with live sound bytes and videos from the actual Holocaust survivors portrayed in the play as well as real video footage from the time period.

 

Auditions are open to any student at Fort Scott High School. Rehearsals are 6:30-9 p.m. Mon.-Thurs. Performances are at 7 p.m. on Feb. 20-22. Auditioners only need to attend one night of auditions and should bring a prepared 1-2 min. monologue to audition with.

 

The play is directed by FSHS Theatre Director Angie Bin with Mesa Jones serving as Assistant Director. It is produced by special arrangement with The Dramatic Publishing Company of Woodstock, Illinois. Please contact Bin at [email protected] or at 620-719-9622 with questions.

Kansas Renewal Institute Now Owns the Former Mercy Hospital.

Mercy Hosptial Building is now owned by Kansas Renewal Institute.

Kansas Renewal Institute now owns the former Mercy Hospital.

Shanda Stewart, spokesperson for KRI, said that as of December 19, 2024, KRI purchased the building from Legacy Health and is its new owner.

“We look forward to Freeman Health System coming to Bourbon County and working closely with them,” she said. “We are currently serving 54 children all from the state of Kansas and have 110 employees.”

About KRI

Kansas Renewal Institute is dedicated to helping young people renew their lives and regain power over their mental health issues, according to their website. We understand that struggling does not equate to weakness or moral failing, and we are determined to provide a safe and supportive environment for individuals to heal and grow. Our behavioral health treatment center in Fort Scott, Kansas, offers comprehensive and personalized services for mental health treatment. To learn more about Kansas Renewal Institute, call us at 888.306.4718 today. We believe everyone deserves care and respect, and we are here to guide our clients on their path toward healing.

 

Outdoor Rink Attracts 365 Skaters During Opening Weekend

The rink named Glide is located at the Gathering Pavilion on North National Avenue.
The new outdoor skating rink in Fort Scott had approximately 365 people skate the opening weekend during the Christmas on the Bricks Festival on December 6-8.
The Glide is a synthetic ice skating rink that is located at the Gathering Pavilion on North National Avenue.
“Everyone that has visited the rink seems to be enjoying it,” Diane Striler, the event organizer said. “One of the best things we overheard was a little girl who told her mom that now they don’t have to go up to Kansas City to skate.”
Diane Striler and her husband Dean at last year’s Christmas on the Bricks. Submitted photo.
Free tickets to skate now available
“We have three groups that have purchased tickets so kids can skate for free.
1. anonymous donor – 100 tickets
2. Farmer Philanthropy/Carla Farmer – 100 tickets
3. Fort Scott Kiwanis – 50 tickets
    Kiwanis Pioneers- 50 tickets
“Skate aides are available for $2 per skater-free for those with disabilities,” Striler said.
Tickets can be picked up at the Fort Scott Chamber – 231 E Wall St- 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
“All workers at the rink are coordinated through The Fort Scott Area Chamber Foundation,” she said.
Appreciation For Those Who Helped Bring Rink To Fruition
 “We would like to recognize the donors of the rink,” said Striler. “We especially wanted to thank Al  and Luanna Niece for their amazing contribution of $25,000.”
Skating rink donors are listed on the skate storage/payment room at the rink site.
“The ones below the Nieces donated  $5,000 and down to $500,” Striler said.
“The graphic (below) is all the individuals that donated their time  toward the contruction for the rink and set up,” she said.
The list of those who helped with getting the set up completed at the skating rink.
Donors graphic submitted.
“The list (above) includes everyone that monetarily donated at all levels toward the rink, helped with fundraisers and we also wanted to thank the bakers that helped with the Pumpkin Roll Fundraiser – Taira Williams, Jamie Beckham, Joyce Davenport and Jolynne Mitchell and Fort Scott Broadcasting for helping us get out all the information.  We want to thank these people and everyone that contributed in any way,” Striler said.

CASA Benefit is Dec. 13

Change a Child’s Story…

You are cordially invited to a Christmas Celebration

to benefit Bourbon County CASA.

Friday, December 13th 2024

7:00-9:00 pm

Heavy hors d’oeuvres & full bar provided

Gary & Sally Cullor

810 195th Street

Fort Scott, Kansas

RSVP: Friday, December 6th

Call 620-215-2769 or email [email protected]

Click HERE for the Bourbon County CASA Facebook page!

Giving Levels

*Payable with your reservation response card

Sponsors:

$25 per person

$50 per couple

Guardian:

$50 per person

$100 per couple

Guardian Angel:

$75 per person

$150 per couple

Friend:

$125 per person

$250 per couple

Defender:

$500 per person

$1000 per couple

Benefactor:

$1000 per person and over

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!

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The Uniontown Science Olympiad teams have kicked off the 24-25 season.

B Division Team – 1st row: Ely Swink, Scout Eden, Ash Sporleder, Ty Shelton, Lexi Irsik, Autstin Maycomber 2nd row: Blake Ervin, Mathew Knight ( Mentor), Makiah Woods, Marley Sutton and McKinley Sutton

Science Olympiad competitions are like academic track meets, consisting of a series of 23 team events in each division (Division B is middle school; Division C is high school), according to information provided by Uniontown Science Teacher Carrie Sutcliffe.

Each year, a portion of the events are rotated to reflect the ever-changing nature of genetics, earth science, chemistry, anatomy, physics, geology, mechanical engineering and technology. By combining events from all disciplines, Science Olympiad encourages a wide cross-section of students to get involved. Emphasis is placed on active, hands-on group participation. Through Science Olympiad, students, teachers, parents, principals and business leaders bond together and work toward a shared goal.

 

 

Lexi Irsik and Scout Eden. Submitted photo.
Austin Maycomber.
Ash Sporleder and Scout Eden
4 C Division Team – 1st row – Abbi Brown, Jewel Endicott, Jiyah Middelton, Jordan Wolf, Blakely Cox
2nd row – Anthony Weyant, Bailey Cox, Austin Vincent, Maria Cibrin, Matthew Knight
3rd row – Dylon Diebert, Dreyden Marlow, Hunter Johnson, Paityn Hueston, Camilla Cagle.

Local 4-H Youth: Livestock Judging Team National Champions!

Pictured: Mason Rookstool (Wamego), Reegan McDaniel, Tate Crystal, Kyser Nemecek, Esmerelda Franklin, standing: Brody Nemecek, 4-H All-Star Coach.

The Southwind District 4-H Livestock Judging Team members are the National Champions!

Reegan McDaniel (Fort Scott), Tate Crystal (Fort Scott) and Kyser Nemecek (Iola) were among six youth invited to try out for the Kansas 4-H All-Star Team this fall.

After successfully earning their spots, they joined Marais des Cygnes District 4-H member Esmerelda Franklin to form a new team representing Kansas at the North American International Livestock Exposition in Louisville, KY.

In November, coached by Brody Nemecek, this All-Star Team achieved the ultimate honor—winning the National 4-H Livestock Judging Contest.

Their individual success was just as remarkable as their team accomplishments: Esmerelda – High Individual Overall; Reegan – Reserve High Individual; Kyser 8th overall; Tate 11th overall. All four team members were awarded All-American recognition for their efforts.

The Southwind boys also competed in the National 4-H Livestock Skillathon Contest in Louisville where they were named 7th Team Overall.

Christmas Celebration to benefit Bourbon County CASA.

Change a Child’s Story…

You are cordially invited to a Christmas Celebration

to benefit Bourbon County CASA.

Friday, December 13th 2024

7:00-9:00 pm

Heavy hors d’oeuvres & full bar provided

Gary & Sally Cullor

810 195th Street

Fort Scott, Kansas

RSVP: Friday, December 6th

Call 620-215-2769 or email [email protected]

Click HERE for the Bourbon County CASA Facebook page!

Giving Levels

*Payable with your reservation response card

Sponsors:

$25 per person

$50 per couple

Guardian:

$50 per person

$100 per couple

Guardian Angel:

$75 per person

$150 per couple

Friend:

$125 per person

$250 per couple

Defender:

$500 per person

$1000 per couple

Benefactor:

$1000 per person and over

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!

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

Toy Drive Next Week For Area Children

Fort Scott Fire Department personnel wanted to get involved in their community at Christmas time.

Assistant Chief Mike Miles said the firefighters saw other departments in the region do a toy drive for the community and decided last year to organize one.

The toy drive will be from 5 to 8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11 in front of the fire station.

“We wanted to get involved,” he said. “I’d seen it done elsewhere. We also do a boot drive in front of the department at 1604 S. National from 5 to 8:30 p.m. for monetary donations which will raise funds to buy gift cards for older children.”

“We will direct people with toys through the bay where they can leave their toys and go onto Judson Street then,” he said.

“We lower the bucket (on the fire truck) and people can drop toys in.”

Bicycle donations for ages 4-12 are needed.

The Beacon,  a local helping agency and the local Elks Lodge will be the recipients of the toys that will be distributed to children.

About the Beacon

The Beacon Food Pantry in Fort Scott, KS, is dedicated to alleviating food insecurity by offering essential food assistance to households in need. Our mission is to ensure that individuals and families have access to nutritious food, supporting their health and well-being during challenging times, according to its website.

 

About the Elks

The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the U.S.A. is a
 Fraternal Organization whose mission is to:

To inculcate the principles of Charity, Justice, Brotherly Love and Fidelity; to recognize a belief in God; to promote the welfare and enhance the happiness of its Members; to quicken the spirit of American patriotism; to cultivate good fellowship; to perpetuate itself as a fraternal organization, and to provide for its government, the Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks of the United States of America will serve the people and communities through benevolent programs, demonstrating that Elks Care and Elks Share, according to its website.

 

FSHS Thespians Present Ho Ho Ho The Santa Claus Chronicles

 

The Fort Scott High School Thespians present the children’s theatre production of Ho Ho Ho The Santa Claus Chronicles by Pat Cook at 7 p.m. on Dec. 13 and 14 in the FSHS Auditorium.

 

Pioneer Drama Service describes the play this way: “We join the host for a special live edition of “The Santa Claus Chronicles” at the North Pole just a few days before Christmas.  We start with a press conference where Saint Nick’s press secretary answers reporters’ questions about the jolly guy. … We also meet the elves, Eeny, Meeny, Miney, and Sol, who take care of the reindeer, and we hear from the elves who work the gift suggestion hotline.  But the biggest mystery at the North Pole is where Mrs.Claus has disappeared to.  Just what is she up to?  Find out in a surprising ending that will leave a smile on everyone’s face.”

 

The production involves 44 local students in first through eighth grade and 24 high school Thespians who serve as directors, coaches, and designers

 

Tickets are $7 for adults and $5 for children. All tickets are reserved seating and are available at fortscotthighschool.ludus.com or at the door. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.

 

Ho Ho Ho The Santa Claus Chronicles is produced by FSHS Theatre Director Angie Bin and senior Directors Kaiden Clary and Cooper George. Junior Junie Fisher serves as Music Director and sophomore Ava Johnson is the Choreographer.

Court Appointed Special Advocates Christmas Fundraiser is December 13

Change a Child’s Story…

You are cordially invited to a Christmas Celebration

to benefit Bourbon County CASA.

Friday, December 13th 2024

7:00-9:00 pm

Heavy hors d’oeuvres & full bar provided

Gary & Sally Cullor

810 195th Street

Fort Scott, Kansas

RSVP: Friday, December 6th

Call 620-215-2769 or email [email protected]

Click HERE for the Bourbon County CASA Facebook page!

Giving Levels

*Payable with your reservation response card

Sponsors:

$25 per person

$50 per couple

Guardian:

$50 per person

$100 per couple

Guardian Angel:

$75 per person

$150 per couple

Friend:

$125 per person

$250 per couple

Defender:

$500 per person

$1000 per couple

Benefactor:

$1000 per person and over

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!

STAY CONNECTED
Facebook  X  Instagram
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US