American Wind Week

Kansas Launches American Wind Week,
Hosts Virtual Panel with State, Business and Industry Leaders
The week’s activities will highlight Kansas’ position as a leader in wind energy development, opportunities for the state’s workforce, and the many ways wind is building the future.
Topeka, KS – This week marks American Wind Week, an annual celebration of wind energy’s leading role in powering our country and the many ways wind is helping build the future. This year, Boost Kansas and its supporters have plenty to celebrate as wind is now America’s number one source of renewable energy.
According to the American Wind Energy Association, wind power has created good-paying jobs for over 120,000 Americans across all 50 states, including more than 26,000 jobs at more than 530 U.S. factories that build wind turbine parts. Wind energy is a drought and flood proof “cash crop” for America’s family farmers and ranchers, paying over $1.6 billion dollars a year in lease payments and revenue for state and local governments, while avoiding carbon pollution equivalent to 42 million cars. The nation has a vast resource to harvest through both onshore and offshore wind energy development, with a power potential that is nearly double the nation’s electricity use.
Right here in Kansas, Governor Kelly issued a proclamation announcing this week as American Wind Week, along with 4 cities and counties. In Kansas, wind now supports 6,000 jobs, $36 million in annual land lease payments, and provides $29 million in revenue for state and local governments, leading to new community facilities such as schools and courthouses, improving roads and bridges, and upgrading emergency services. More than $11.4 billion in capital financing has been invested in the state, providing unparalleled opportunities for workforce expansion and economic growth as a result of wind energy.
Throughout the week, Boost Kansas will be sharing the stories of communities that are benefiting from wind energy. These stories are now available including two notable examples from Ford and Pratt Counties.
On Monday, August 10 at 10:30-11:00 AM CT, Apex Clean Energy will host a virtual tour of a wind farm and wind turbine climb to highlight the wind energy workers on the frontlines helping keep the lights on every day and ensuring that Americans have access to cheap, clean electricity. Join us at the following link to watch live!
Boost Kansas is also excited to announce that we’ll be holding a virtual event that will give Kansans an opportunity to hear more about the successes of wind energy in their own state:
WHAT
A virtual panel discussion with state, business, and industry leaders highlighting Kansas’ position as a leader in wind energy development, the economic and workforce opportunities wind brings to the state, and the many ways the energy source is building the future.
WHO
  • State Senator Elaine Bowers
  • Randi Tveitaraas Jack, Manager of International Development, Department of Commerce
  • Joann Knight, Executive Director, Dodge City/Ford County Development Corporation
  • APEX Clean Energy
  • Enel Group
Moderator: Riley Scott, Boost Kansas
WHEN
Thursday, August 13, 2020
3:00 PM CT
RSVP
To set up an interview with a panelist during American Wind Week, please contact Jesse Dougherty at [email protected] or (608) 807-8619.
Boost Kansas will be sharing highlights and other content onFacebook and Twitter. Follow along and join in the conversation by using #AmericanWindWeek and #WindBuildsTheFuture.
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About Boost Kansas
Boost Kansas, an initiative of the American Wind Energy Association, is a statewide coalition of civic and business leaders supporting innovative policies that expand renewable and wind energy investment in the state. With commonsense federal and state policies, Kansas can continue to be a national leader in harnessing the power of wind and renewable energy development. Learn more at BoostKansas.com.
About the American Wind Energy Association
AWEA is the national trade association for the U.S. wind industry, the largest source of renewable energy in the country. We represent 1,000 member companies, 120,000 jobs in the U.S. economy, and a nationwide workforce located across all 50 states. AWEA serves as a powerful voice for how wind works for America. Members include global leaders in wind power and energy development, turbine manufacturing, and component and service suppliers. They gather each year at the Western Hemisphere’s most efficient and targeted event for utility-scale renewable companies, the AWEA CLEANPOWER Conference & Exhibition, next in Indianapolis, June 7-10, 2021. An outgrowth of the AWEA WINDPOWER Conference & Exhibition, CLEANPOWER is the first trade show focused exclusively on the utility-scale renewable power sector, bringing together all the major developers, utilities, OEMs, suppliers, and buyers under one roof. Visit AWEA’s website to learn more about the enormous economic benefits wind power brings to America and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.

Now is the Perfect Time to Plant Fall Vegetables

Krista Harding
District Extension Agent, Horticulture
Southwind Extension District
111 S. Butler
Erie, KS 66733
Office: 620-244-3826
Cell: 620-496-8786

 

I realize we just turned the calendar to August, and although our summer gardens are still going strong, it is time to start thinking about getting our fall vegetables planted. Believe it or not, fall is a great gardening season!

When you think about it, fall weather is much like spring – warm daytime temperatures and cool nights. Rainfall is typically more abundant in the fall than summer so less irrigation is needed and fall gardens often have fewer insect pest and disease problems. Combine all of these and you have the ingredients for a great garden! And of most importance is the taste of the produce grown. Flavors of fall grown vegetables are often sweeter and milder in taste than those grown during hot summer weather.

Some of the best vegetables for a fall garden are lettuce, spinach, radishes, beets, cabbage, turnips and carrots because of their frost-tolerance. These vegetables can be planted directly into your garden wherever space can be found – next to plants still growing in the garden like tomatoes, cucumbers and pumpkins. Plant mid-August until the first week of September.

Left over seed from spring planting can be used as long as it was stored in a cool, dry location. To speed up germination and seedling emergence, soak the seeds overnight before planting. If you are purchasing new seed, look for the shortest season cultivars that you can find to insure harvest before a killing frost. The average fall freeze date for our area is around October 24 according to the Weather Data Library on the K-State campus.

Sometimes establishing a fall garden can be difficult during the summer when soil temperatures are extremely high. One way to avoid this is to establish plants in containers or pots for transplanting into the garden later in the season when the weather begins to cool. Cabbage, broccoli, cauliflower, and collards can be grown in cooler protected areas for 2-4 weeks prior to setting in the garden. Be sure to acclimatize crops for several days before transplanting directly into the garden.

Garden soil should be prepared just like for spring. An application of fertilizer will probably be necessary for optimum plant growth. Use one pound of a complete analysis fertilizer, such as 12-12-12, applied per 100 square feet of garden area. Weeds and grasses will also grow well in a fall garden so mulching may be warranted.

If you do not have a traditional garden space, think about doing a container garden. Just about anything that will hold soil and have a drain hole in the bottom can be used.

Everyone gets geared up to plant vegetables in the spring, but the fall season offers many benefits to gardening. Few take advantage of the season, but consider giving it a try this year.

The Extension office has the “Vegetable Garden Planting Guide” publication available free of charge. This guide offers information such as days to first harvest, days to germination, planting depth, frost resistance, and more.

Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Agricultural agent assigned to Southwind District. She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Money Can’t Buy Everything

Carolyn Tucker. Submitted photo.

Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

 

Recently, I was at Sutherlands standing in the checkout line, along with other people, when the clerk got on the intercom and announced, “I’ve got a customer who wants to buy a Bad Boy.“ The lady behind me asked, “You can buy those?” Even though she was wearing a mask, I could detect a twinkle in her eyes and a big grin. Her response made us laugh; in times like these it’s good to join our hearts in laughter!

Later, I started thinking about what money could buy. No doubt about it, money buys a lot of things. We need a home, a vehicle, food, clothing, etc. But there are many crucial things we need that money absolutely cannot buy. We can’t buy love, peace of mind, health, grace, contentment, joy, fulfillment, hope, or salvation in Christ Jesus. These vital sources of life can’t be bought, but thank God they are free!

In John 10:10 NKJV, Jesus said, “I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” An abundant life only comes through our Redeemer and Savior. You can’t buy it, but it’s free, and there’s no limit! It can be disappointing to go to a store that’s running a sale and discover they’re sold out; but that never happens with God. “Whosoever will” may come and find all of life’s resources readily available for the asking and receiving.

In John 14:6 NLT, Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Me.” Jesus is the key for what you need. His way, His truth, and the life you need to experience is found only in Him.

I have a piano sitting in my living room where I have taught students to play for over 25 years. There are 52 white keys and 36 black keys. If the pianist doesn’t play the correct keys together, the musical piece will be “out of tune” or have “sour notes.“ That’s exactly the way our lives are when we try to live it without Jesus. He is the key to abundant living. Life can be harsh in tough times, but life with Jesus is not hopeless.

In 1834, Edward Mote penned the lyrics to a hymn we still sing (because it’s still true): “My hope is built on nothing less than Jesus’ blood and righteousness… On Christ the solid Rock I stand, all other ground is sinking sand.” As long as you’ve got King Jesus, you’ve got a song in the key of hope. If you don’t have Jesus, read the New Testament book of John and you’ll find Him. He is the key to unlocking the door to receiving all the vital sources of life that your heart is longing for.

In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul wrote: “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in Him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit” (Romans 15:13 NLT).

The Key: You can’t buy the truly vital things in life. However, they’re free to you when you receive Christ Jesus as your Lord and Savior.

Obituary of Larry Grimes

Larry Lee Grimes, age 71, resident of Ft. Scott, KS, died Friday, August 7, 2020, at Via Christi Hospital in Pittsburg, KS.

He was born on June 15, 1949, in Ft. Scott, the son of Claude and Frances Wolfe Grimes. He graduated from FSHS with the class of 1967.

Larry married Barbara Fry on August 18, 1968, in Hiattville, KS.

He served in the U. S. Airforce from 1968 until 1972. Larry then opened Grimes Texaco. He later worked for Bradbury Coal Company, Petromark Oil Company, the sale barn and as a volunteer for the fire department. He loved riding horses and spending time with his grandchildren.

He was a member of the Hiattville United Methodist Church and taught Sunday school.

Survivors include his wife Barbara of the home; two daughters, Tammy Grimes and Mike Marsh, Fulton, KS, and Kathy Bradbury and husband Steve, Carroll, OH; a sister, Alice Grimes; seven grandchildren, Breanne, Kolby, Tylar, Krista, Alexia, Kyle, and Nicole; 14 great-grandchildren; and numerous nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by a sister Lorene VanBuren; and his parents.

Pastor Carl Ellis will conduct graveside services at 1:30 PM Tuesday, August 11th, at the Memory Gardens Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 PM Monday evening at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to either the Hiattville United Methodist Church or Fort Scott Fire Department and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Section of K-7 in Linn County to close for pipe replacement project

A close up of a map

Description automatically generated

Closure shown in red

 

The Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) will close a section of K-7 in Linn County on Tuesday, Aug. 18, to replace a crossroad pipe.

 

K-7 will be closed between county roads 1700 and 1800 the entire day, reopening in the evening. Traffic should use alternate routes.

 

Persons with questions may contact KDOT Superintendent Shawn Denny, (785) 433-6112, or Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

 

 

USD 234 Special Board Meeting Aug. 6

From the U234 Facebook page:

Thursday, August 6th, 2020 the USD 234 School Board approved, in a 4-3 vote, to open our schools on September 9th with two learning options for USD 234 students, those being Onsite and Remote Learning.

Onsite means if students want to attend in-person, daily in the school buildings they can.  They would follow a “normal” school schedule for a school day in the building when school is in session.

Remote learners would receive asynchronous learning with the on-site learners.  The remote learner will be expected to be directly involved in learning for at least 6 hours a day when school is in session.  Parents will need to log the learning time for remote learners which could be either online, engaged with a teacher in a classroom or while doing “homework” as assigned by the teacher on their own.  The remote learner will also need to have daily contact with at least one teacher.  USD 234 will provide a device for all remote learners.

 

On Monday, August 10th, 2020 USD 234 will be releasing the learning plan and school operations guidance document to the public.

This document will provide specific information for families about the learning plans and how schools will operate when students and staff are in the buildings.  This document will be a fluid document as we learn more about the coronavirus and how the school district needs to respond to provide a safe learning environment for our students and staff.

USD 234 will be working with the SEK Multi-County Health Department in regard to isolation and quarantine of students and staff, contact tracing, and the school’s response to the level community spread.

USD 234 teachers return on August 14th, 2020 to being preparing for the return of our students on September 9th, 2020.

Our staff will be receiving training and professional development in areas of hygiene and symptom checking, viable remote learning, and focusing on content, standards, and assessments to measure students learning and social/emotional gaps to be prepared for the return of students.

The USD 234 School Board appreciates the feedback they received from the community in regard to reopening our school buildings.  USD 234 takes very seriously the safety of our students and staff, and community input helps in making decisions in the best interest of everyone.

What’s Happening in Fort Scott, Aug. 7 Edition

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS
8/7thru8/9 –NO SALES TAX HOLIDAY WEEKEND! Select retailers have volunteered to pay for for 9.4% Sales Tax for Shoppers!
8/7 & 8/8 – Liquidation Sale at Captured Images-FIRST liquidation sale at Captured Images. We are offering display prints, books, frames, albums and more! We are also selling negative files and digital files from finished sessions. Stop by from 9-6 Friday and/or 9-12 Saturday and take a look!
8/7 -Pickup Softball Game @ Ellis Park at 6 pm to 9 pm. Public invited to participate & attend. Planned by Locals. Fort Scott Rec. Dept will work the field and will start a fall League if there is interest. Dustin Fowler
8/7thru8/13 –Fort Scott Cinema: Field of Dreams, 2 Fast 2 Furious & Happy Gilmore!
8/8 – Mo’s Swap Meet– Every Saturday from
8am – 4pm (3rd & Margrave St)
Plaza in front of the Fort, 8am to noon.
8/7 & 8/8 – Fort Scott Livestock Sale starts as 10am – Sale Barn
8/8 -Briggs Drive-In Movie Night! – Showing Ford Vs Ferrari at 8:30 pm. Free Snacks will be served. Turn in on Radio station for Audio. Stay in your own car!
8/7 – Boiler Room Brewhaus – Come in and drink and sing Karaoke night!
8/9 – Boiler Room Brewhaus Brings back Trivia
night for teams of 2 to 6 people, $5 entry
per team, 5-7 pm
8/19 – Boiler Room Brewhaus “Brews & Brushes”
Hosted by Creative Canvas $25 – This is already “SOLD OUT”
SAVE THE DATE!
8/22 -SPECIAL OLYMPICS CORNHOLE TOURNAMENT! Sat. starting at 1:30 pm until 5 pm at the Woodland Golf Course to Sign up!
8/22 –SMALLVILLE ATHLETICS – FORT GAMES 2020! Competition starts Friday, 8/22 at 5 pm & all Day Saturday 8/23 – Annual Fitness Competition includes:2 Day M/M F/F Partner Competition Divisions Include: Rx, Intermediate, Master’s 35+ & Scaled – Be held at 1905 S. Judson St.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue
No Sales Tax Holiday
Liquidation Sale at Captured Images
Pick up Softball Game
Briggs – Drive In Movie Night
Mo’s Swap Meet
The Boiler Room Brewhaus
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.
THANK YOU TO OUR BOOSTER MEMBERS!

Public Health Advisories for Kansas Lakes Due to Blue-Green Algae

 

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE), in conjunction with the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism (KDWPT), has revised its list of public health advisories for Kansas lakes due to blue-green algae. Since Thursday’s update, Milford Lake Zone A has moved to a warning, while Milford Lake Zones B and C have been downgraded to a watch. Additionally, Agra Lake in Phillips County has been added to the watch list.

 

Warning

Milford Lake Zone A, Geary County (upgraded)

Gathering Pond, Geary County

Lovewell Reservoir, Jewell County

 

Watch

Brown State Fishing Lake, Brown County

Mission Lake, Brown County

Ford State Fishing Lake, Ford County

Milford Lake Zone B, C, Geary County (downgraded)

South Lake, Johnson County

Unit G Marais des Cygnes Wildlife Area, Linn County

Marion County Lake, Marion County

Marion Reservoir, Marion County

Overbrook City Lake, Osage County

Agra Lake, Phillips County (new)

Cheney Reservoir, Reno/Kingman/Sedgwick Counties

Plainville Township Lake, Rooks County

Webster Reservoir, Rooks County

 

Warning Protocols

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.
  • Lake water, regardless of blue-green algae status, should never be consumed by humans.
  • Water contact should be avoided.
  • Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.
  • Do not allow pets to eat dried algae.
  • If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.
  • Avoid areas of visible algae accumulation.

 

Watch Protocols

A watch means that blue-green algae have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of algae accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water. During the watch status, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

  • Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.
  • Avoid areas of algae accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried algae or drink contaminated water.
  • Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.
  • Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.
  • Clean fish well with potable water and eat fillet portion only.

 

KDHE investigates publicly-accessible bodies of water for blue-green algae when the agency receives reports of potential algae blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.

 

Kansans should be aware that blooms are unpredictable. They can develop rapidly and may float around the lake, requiring visitors to exercise their best judgment. If there is scum, a paint-like surface or the water is bright green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried algae along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

 

For information on blue-green algae and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit www.kdheks.gov/algae-illness/index.htm. KDHE updates the listings of advisories every Thursday but may update more frequently if needed.

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for Aug. 10

Agenda

Bourbon County Commission Room

1st Floor, County Courthouse

210 S. National Avenue

Fort Scott, KS 66701

Tuesdays starting at 9:00

Date: August 11, 2020

1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________

2nd District-Jeff Fischer Corrected: _______________

3rd District-Nick Ruhl Adjourned at: _______________

County Clerk-Kendell Mason

MEETING WILL BE HELD IN COMMISSION ROOM. ANYONE ATTENDING THE MEETING WILL BE REQUIRED TO WEAR A MASK PROVIDED BY THE COUNTY. MUST MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCING.

9:00 – 12:00 Spark Findings & Greenbush

1:30 – until end of day 2021 Budget Review

FSCC Trustees Minutes of July 27

FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Training
July 27, 2020
PRESENT: Jim Fewins, Dave Elliott, Kirk Hart, and Robert Nelson
ALSO PRESENT: Alysia Johnston, President, Juley McDaniel, Board Clerk, faculty, staff, and community members.
Acting Chairman Robert Nelson called the meeting to order at 5:37 pm. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: Acting Chairman Nelson said that it is good to see the community provide goods for our students. Nelson congratulated Chad Cross for being the Central Plains Region Coach of the Year.
He also congratulated the administration and faculty for their diligence, perseverance, and hard work through the COVID pandemic.

ELECTION OF OFFICERS FOR 2020-21:

A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Elliott, and carried by
unanimous vote to elect John Bartelsmeyer as Chairman of the Board. A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by
Hart, and carried by unanimous vote to elect Robert Nelson as Vice-Chairman of the Board.

APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS/POSITIONS FOR 2020-21:

A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by
Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to appoint Julie Eichenberger, Information officer; Juley McDaniel, Clerk of
the Board; Marianne Culbertson, Treasurer; Juley McDaniel, KPERS Representative; Bill Meyer and Kirk Hart,
KACCT Representative and Council of Presidents Representative; and John Bartelsmeyer, Greenbush
Representative.

APPOINTMENT OF OFFICIALS AND MEETING DATES/TIMES: A motion was made by Elliott, seconded
by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to appoint Landmark National Bank as the designated bank for general
fund, Zackery Reynolds as the designated attorney, The Fort Scott Tribune as the official newspaper.

CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Hart, and carried by unanimous vote to
approve the consent agenda and addendum provided.

ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. The Board reviewed the agenda for fall in-service.
B. A motion was made by Hart, seconded by Elliott, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the sale of the
2000 Thomas bus on Purple Wave and funds be used for college fleet needs.
C. A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to accept the athletic
insurance quote of $182,183 and catastrophic injury/accident coverage quote of $16,500 from
Borden/Perlman.
D. A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Hart, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the renewal
of property insurance with a premium of $139,874.
E. A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the updated
project amount with IA DOE for a total of $861,819.19.
F. A motion was made by Hart, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve payment for
the professional services of Diehl, Banwart, Bolton, CPAs, PA to audit financial statements for June 30,
2020 in an amount not to exceed $19,135 plus an additional fee of approximately $550 to audit COVID-19
aid.
7
G. A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the SPARK
Memorandum of Understanding.
H. A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Hart, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the Culinary
Memorandum of Understanding between Greenbush and FSCC.
I. A motion was made by Fewins, seconded by Elliott, and carried by unanimous vote to approve August 10,
2020 at 5:30 pm in Cleaver-Boileau-Burris Hall for the budget hearing, and that proper notice be submitted
to the Fort Scott Tribune for publication within the specified time limits in accordance with K.S.A. 79-
2929.
J. A motion was made by Elliott, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the 2020-21
Negotiated Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding for the 2020-21 academic year.
K. President Johnston provided information regarding a pending lease with Mercy Hospital for FSCC’s use of
15,883 square feet of the vacated Fort Scott Mercy Hospital for student housing.
ITEMS FOR REVIEW: The Board reviewed letters of appreciation/correspondence.
REPORTS:
A. ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES: The Board reviewed and heard reports from Student Affairs,
Instruction, Finance and Operations, Student Services, and the President.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at
7:00 p.m. by Fewins, seconded by Hart, and carried by unanimous vote.

FSCC Trustees Agenda For Aug.10

The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday, August 10, 2020. The meeting will be held in the Heritage Room at Fort Scott Community
College.
5:00 p.m. Dinner in the Heritage Room at 5:00 p.m. followed by budget hearing and regular board meeting at 5:30 p.m.
THE AGENDA
5:00 DINNER
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
BUDGET HEARING, 5
A. Comments from the Chair, 5
B. Open Comments from the Board, 5
C. Review and Adoption of 2020/2021 Year Budget, 5
CONSENT AGENDA, 6
A. Approval of Agenda, 6
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on July 27, 2020, 7
C. Approval of Treasurer’s Report, Bills, and Claims, 9
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS, 32
A. Consideration of Gordon Parks Museum Policies, 32
REPORTS, 78
A. Administrative Updates, 78
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 80
ADJOURNMENT, 81

CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
1) Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on July 27,
2020.
C. APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT, BILLS and CLAIMS
Attached are the Treasurer’s Report and the Bills and Claims Report.

 

To see the full packet, with financials:

8.10.20 Consent Agenda

 

Area COVID-19 Testing Options

COVID-19 Courtesy photo.

There is a current surge of COVID-19 in the world and in Bourbon County. Those who are experiencing COVID-19 symptoms have several options to choose from for testing for the disease.

Fortscott.biz contacted five area medical agencies to look at their requirements and costs for testing.

Requirements are very similar, and most costs are covered by insurance, the government CARES Act or other means.

The return time to receive the results back varies in each facility.

Here are the results:

 

SEK Urgent Care, Pittsburg

From Angie Andrew, administrative assistant for Dr. Brent Cosens and PA Michele Cosens.

Requirements: call the Bourbon County Health Department

Cost: $125

 

How long for results?

One-half hour

 

 

Girard Medical Center

From Girard Medical Center’s CEO Ruth Duling:

Requirements:

* a physician’s order to be tested for COVID-19.

*a call to their laboratory for an appointment.

 

How long for results?

* within 24 hours.

 

Cost?

* most health plans cover the COVID-19 test.

“We will make every concession possible for an uninsured patient,” Duling said.

 

 

Community Health Center

From Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas Communications and Marketing Manager Robert Poole:

Requirements:

* individuals experiencing COVID-19 symptoms,

*those who have had close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.

“A close contact is defined as any individual who was within six feet of an infected person for at least 15 minutes starting from two days before illness onset (or, for asymptomatic patients, two days prior to positive specimen collection) until the time the patient is isolated,” Poole said. “It is recommended for persons with close contact exposure to wait five to seven days following their exposure to be tested, for improved test accuracy.”

 

Poole submitted  the Kansas testing strategy link: https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/DocumentCenter/View/1294/Kansas-Lab-Testing-Strategy-Priorities—6-10-20

Cost?

* $140, however, the cost of patient testing is being covered by the CARES act, currently.

How long for results?

* 14 days, “with the number now decreasing.”

On the horizon for CHC:

“In another two weeks, we expect to be doing in-house molecular testing using Abbott ID Now testing equipment which delivers results in 30 minutes or less, with a capacity of up to 1000 tests per week, system-wide. We ordered this equipment very early in the pandemic and have been waiting since for it to arrive.”

 

Why do results take a while?

“Across the country, the very high demand for Covid-19 tests exhausted many lab’s physical capacity, (manpower, equipment, logistics) as well as their abilities to obtain raw testing supplies,” according to the CHC press release. “That issue continues, see the latest from Quest Diagnostics, who has processed more than 100 million tests to date.   https://newsroom.questdiagnostics.com/COVIDTestingUpdates”

 

“General tips:

For people with medical conditions and older adults

Older adults and people of any age with medical conditions like lung disease, heart disease, or diabetes are at higher risk for developing more serious complications from COVID-19 and should seek care as soon as symptoms start.

Separate yourself from other people in your home.

Stay in a specific room away from others and use a separate bathroom if you can. Do not share personal household items. Wear a mask and maintain 6ft. distance if you need to interact with others.

Stay home except to get medical care.

People who are mildly ill are able to isolate at home. Rest, stay hydrated andmonitor your symptoms carefully.  If your symptoms get worse, seek medical care. Call before you go to prevent others from being exposed.

Wash your hands often & avoid touching your face.

Wash frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after blowing your nose, coughing or sneezing, and before eating or preparing food. If soap and water aren’t available, use a hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Avoid touching your face.

Designate someone to clean high-touch surfaces every day.

Clean counters, tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom fixtures, phones, keyboards and bedside tables. Use diluted bleach solutions (4 teaspoons per quart of water), alcohol solutions with at least 70% alcohol or most common EPA-registered household disinfectants.”

 

 

Nevada Regional Medical Center

Holly Bush, Chief Quality Officer, Quality and Compliance at NRMC, Nevada MO   provided the following:

Requirements:

* a doctor’s order sent to NRMC lab or

*participate in workplace screening if  workplace has made the decision to screen.

 

Cost?

*”No cost…insurance or if uninsured, through…. recent legislative acts.”

 

How long for results?

* 3-5 days, in a few instances up to 8 days.

“Right now … within 48 hours but there is not a guarantee of this. If you sign up for the patient portal, you will get your results at the moment we have them.”

 

How long are the results good for?

“That is a good question with a long answer.

The CDC states if you test negative for COVID 19 by a viral test, you probably were not infected at the time your sample was collected.

However, that does not mean you will not get sick.

The test result only means that you did not have COVID-19 at the time of testing.

You might test negative if the sample was collected early in your infection and test positive later during your illness.

You could also be exposed to COVID-19 after the test and get infected then.

Technically a negative test ONLY means you aren’t actively shedding virus at the time you were swabbed. It’s possible you were infected but not far enough into the infection to be shedding virus, which is why guidelines for asymptomatic patients call for waiting at least 72 hours after known exposures before testing.

And of course, any exposure after being tested means you could be infected.”

 

From Kayla Stewart, RN, Manager of Ascension Via Christi Emergency Department in Fort Scott. 
 
Requirements:
* a physician’s order
Testing dates and times are Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10-11 a.m. The order for testing must be received before 9:30 a.m. to get tested the same day. 

Cost?

*insurance
How long before test results? 
* 24-72 hours. “Most of ours have been coming back within a day.”
 
While waiting for the results what are people to do?

“POST EXPOSURE to COVID-19 TESTING

If you have been tested for COVID-19 because you were directly exposed to someone with COVID-19 you will need to continue to quarantine for the 14 days from last exposure even if your initial test is negative. (Definition to Quarantine is below) Those with symptoms and are tested, they should isolate for 10 days from the onset of their symptoms and fever free for 72 hours without fever-reducing medication even if their test is negative.

COVID-19 TESTING NO KNOWN EXPOSURE

If you have not been exposed and have not traveled to an area that is a high risk according to CDC.gov and you are negative you will not need to continue to quarantine. This however does not mean you cannot get COVID-19 and you will still need to take precautions against this illness. See cdc.gov for how to prevent COVID-19. Those with symptoms and are tested, they should isolate for 10 days from the onset of their symptoms and fever free for 72 hours without fever-reducing medication even if their test is negative

COVID-19 TESTING POST TRAVEL EXPOSURE

If you travel to an area that is a high risk for COVID-19 per cdc.gov listing and you are an essential employee, you may go to work only per your workplace regulation and with a mask on and monitoring symptoms per KDHE recommendations. (these recommendations are subject to change) If you are not an essential employee a 14-day quarantine after a return is required by KDHE. Those with symptoms and are tested, they should isolate for 10 days from the onset of their symptoms and fever free for 72 hours without fever-reducing medication even if their test is negative.

PRE-SURGICAL TESTING 

If you were tested for COVID-19 Pre-op you will Quarantine up to your surgery day to prepare for surgery and limit the risk of exposure to COVID prior to surgery. If you are positive you will be notified, and all non-emergent surgeries may be postponed until COVID-19 is cleared. Those with symptoms and are tested, they should isolate for 10 days from the onset of their symptoms and fever free for 72 hours without fever-reducing medication even if their test is negative and let your provider know. 

Testing can take up to 2-3 days for completion or longer depending on lab volumes.”

 

For more informationon how to care at home and clean:

https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/246/Individual-Family-Care

 

Rebecca Johnson, administrator of Bourbon County Health Department sent the following info.

 

To clarify terms:

  • Isolation separates sick people with a contagious disease from people who are not sick.
  • Quarantine separates and restricts the movement of people who were exposed to a contagious disease to see if they become sick.

 

“WHEN SHOULD I STAY HOME?

  • After you have been tested for COVID-19, until told otherwise by the County Health Department
  • If you have been in close contact with a confirmed positive COVID-19 case, until told otherwise by the County Health Department
  • If you are feeling sick
  • If your Doctor or the County Health Department has instructed you to do so

WHEN SHOULD I GO BACK OUT IN PUBLIC AFTER ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE?

  • When you have been instructed to do so by your County Health Department

HOW LONG COULD MY ISOLATION OR QUARANTINE LAST?

  • If you are in isolation because you were tested POSITIVE for COVID-19, your isolation time is a minimum of 10 days after onset of symptoms or testing date (if onset unclear or asymptomatic). You can be released from isolation after fever free and asymptomatic for at least 72 hours. Release from isolation is up to the County Health Department.
  • If you are a household contact of a positive COVID-19 case, you must quarantine for a minimum of 24 days. Release from quarantine is up to the County Health Department.
  • If you are a non-household contact of a positive COVID-19 case, you must quarantine for 14 days from the date of last contact with the positive case. Release from quarantine is up to the County Health Department.

You may contact your County Health Department by calling:

Bourbon County: (620)223-4464

 

Bourbon County Local News