Obituary

Obituary of Jo Ann Thomas

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Jo Ann Thomas, 83, of Fort Scott, passed away peacefully on the morning of July 27, 2025, surrounded by family.

 

Jo Ann was born on May 4, 1942, in Ft Scott, KS to Oscar and Jimmie Sapp. As a young girl, a serious bicycle accident with her sister led her to Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott for recovery. It was there she first felt called to become a nurse—a decision that would define much of her life.

 

She attended the Mercy School of Nursing, living in the convent with the sisters. After briefly parting ways with her boyfriend at the time, Hubert, the sisters themselves summoned Hubert and encouraged a reunion as her grades were being impacted. Those same sisters would later be present for the births of their children.

 

Jo Ann’s passion for nursing guided a remarkable career. After earning her bachelor’s degree from Pittsburg State University, she went on to receive her master’s from the University of Kansas and later graduated with the first class of Nurse Practitioners at KU. She began her career as a supervisor at Mercy Hospital before moving with her husband, Hubert, to Germany, where they worked at the same hospital. Hubert often joked that the Army had made him a medic just so Jo Ann could serve as a civilian nurse at the Army Hospital.

 

When they returned to Kansas, Jo Ann resumed her work at Mercy Hospital in Fort Scott, eventually serving in multiple leadership roles, including Chief Nursing Officer. She later founded Executive Rural Nurses, a consulting group dedicated to helping rural hospitals move from operating “in the red back into the black”. Her success in that role led to her appointment at Allen County Hospital as Chief Nursing Officer and Chief Operating Officer, where she achieved financial stability for the hospital after years of losses.

 

Even in retirement, Jo Ann continued to give back, accepting the role of Director of the School of Nursing at Fort Scott Community College to ensure a local pathway for future nurses. During these years, she was also elected by her peers to the Kansas State Board of Nursing, where she served for several years as President, leaving an enduring mark on the profession she loved so deeply.

 

Jo Ann’s Catholic faith was a constant source of strength and meaning throughout her life. She gave generously of her time to Saint Mary’s Catholic Church and School, where she was a familiar and devoted presence. While she cherished her faith deeply, she also delighted in life’s simple joys—music, sunshine, and long afternoons at Thomas Lake, floating in the water and making sure her hair stayed perfectly dry.

 

Jo Ann and Hubert, whom she lovingly called Tommy, built a life together that was full of kindness, patience, and unwavering love. They raised three children—Gregory Owen, Elizabeth Ann, and Natalie Sue—and their home was later filled with the laughter and love of grandchildren and great-grandchildren. Some of the family’s fondest memories are of the many trips Jo Ann and Hubert took their grandchildren on in their motor home. Adventures that were always filled with joy and togetherness. Passing only months apart, Hubert and Jo Ann leave their family with the peace of knowing their love story continues beyond this life.

 

She is survived by her three children Gregory Thomas, Elizabeth (Joe) Wright, Natalie (John) Snyder, her seven grandchildren, Bart (Nicole) Wright, Nicholas (Chelsea) Thomas, Drew (Hannah) Wright, Zachary (Stevie) Snyder, Lucas Snyder, Ella Snyder, Thanya Brown-Thomas, and four great grandchildren, Raelynn Wright, Sofia Thomas, Brooks Wright, and Ellison Thomas. One sister Bobbi Kemna.

 

She was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Hubert Owen Thomas, and her parents Oscar & Gladys “Jimmie” Sapp, grandsons Nathanial Wright, Hunter Thomas and soon to be daughter-in-law Nong Brown.

 

A Funeral Mass was held on August 1st at 10 am at Saint Mary’s Catholic Church,   burial followed at Clarksburg Cemetery. A Rosary was held at Cheney Witt Funeral Home on Thursday, July 31.

 

In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to the Jo Ann Thomas Memorial Nursing Scholarship in care of Cheney Witt. Donations may also be dropped off at City State Bank, Ft. Scott, KS.

 

Jo Ann will be remembered for her compassion, her unwavering love, and her devotion to both her family and her profession. Her legacy lives on in the countless lives she touched.

 

 

Bourbon County, Entertainment, Food

Traditions Continue At the 120th Old Settlers Picnic Aug. 29-Sept.1

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The 120th Old Settlers Picnic in Uniontown has traditionally been a day for the community to view a parade and enjoy a community picnic, with fun activities for all ages throughout the whole weekend.
A street dance, 5K Run/Walk,  fishing derby, co-ed ranch rodeo, community church service, bingo, family fun night, youth rodeo, food and craft vendors, car show, baby contest, a children’s parade separate from the bigger parade, and drawings for the raffles and bicycles will make up the weekend’s festivities.
The theme this year is Remembering the Past, Planning the Future.
Aligning with the theme, not only the recognition of the Old Settlers, but “recognizing the future generation throughout the Monday activities, including the youngest attendee,” said Mike Ramsey, planning committee vice president.
The parade grand marshals are the family of Bill and Doris George.
This year, the West Bourbon Elementary School will be the new location for the Dale Jackson Memorial Car Show.
“We’ve brought back the baby contest,” Ramsey said. “Registration at 9 a.m. with the contest at 9:30 a.m.” The location is at the gazebo in Uniontown’s City Park.
” We’ve brought back the kids’ races on Monday at 1 p.m. on the streets” surrounding the downtown park, he said.
Girls race in a contest during a prior Old Settler’s Picnic.
“Personally, I’m excited about having Dustin Treiber playing for the Street Dance Friday night.” On August 29, there will be a street dance with a food truck available for refreshments.
The planning committee is comprised of Rhonda Dewitt, president; Ramsey, vice president; Mary Pillion, treasurer; and Carissa Jones, secretary.

 

The Uniontown High School Class of 1959 wait to board their float for the 2019 Old Settlers Picnic Parade on Labor Day, 2019.
Area News, Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Health Care

Freeman Wins Multi-Disciplinary Quality Improvement Award

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Improving Patient Outcomes Across Multiple Clinical Specialties

                                     

Joplin, MO. – Freeman Health System has received the American Heart Association’s Commitment to Quality award for achieving high performance across three or more clinical areas in the Get With The Guidelines® program.

This is the first year for this special award level. Only 158 hospitals in the nation met the criteria for this award; hospitals earning this new award demonstrate a comprehensive approach to quality improvement. By participating in three or more Get With The Guidelines programs, they commit to using real-time data registries, evidence-based protocols and cross-disciplinary teamwork to raise the standard of care across multiple specialties.

 

“Freeman has an unwavering commitment to excellence that is exemplified through the active participation in the Get With The Guidelines Quality Registry,” said Paige Moschner, Service Line Director for Freeman’s Cardiac and Vascular Services. “By embracing evidence-based care and continuous improvement, Freeman is not only elevating cardiovascular outcomes but also setting a standard for compassionate, high-quality care in our community.”

 

Get With The Guidelines is the American Heart Association’s hospital-based quality improvement initiative that helps ensure patients are treated in accordance with the most up-to-date, research-based guidelines. Participating hospitals benefit from tools, resources and peer benchmarking to drive better patient outcomes.

 

“This award highlights the impressive commitment Freeman Health System has made to improving care across multiple disciplines,” said Donald Lloyd-Jones, past volunteer president of the American Heart Association and current volunteer chair of the Association’s Quality Oversight Committee. “By taking a systems-level approach to quality, these hospitals are building a foundation for better outcomes, fewer complications, and stronger communities.”

 

 

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Advertisements, Bourbon County, Government

AD: City of Uniontown Is Looking For a City Clerk

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Uniontown City Hall and community building. 2023

 

Would you like to make an impact in your community while broadening your skill set, connecting with people, working close to home, and receiving good pay & great benefits?

As Uniontown City Clerk/Municipal Court Clerk you can do all this and more!  This is a 40 hours per week position with above average wage and benefits, including:                        

  • Paid Time Off: 10 Holidays, PTO, & More
  • Retirement Plan: participate in KPERS (Kansas Public Employees Retirement System)
  • Health & Life Insurance available
  • Wage Scale: $18.00/hour or negotiable depending upon experience

 

Personal Requirements:

  • You must be a Motivated, Self-Starter
  • High Attention to Detail
  • Basic Computer, Accounting, and Secretarial Skills
  • Ability to Maintain Professionalism, Confidentiality, and Discretion
  • Live Within 10 Miles of Uniontown
  • Valid Driver’s License & Pass Pre-Employment Drug Screen

The Clerk position entails performing all duties as defined by Kansas State Statute and City Ordinances:  receive and disperse monetary funds and maintain financial records; complete various administrative reports; grant applications & administration; prepare, mail and apply payments of monthly customer utility billing; assist residents via phone or walk-in; attend and record minutes of all city council meetings, write monthly community newsletter; maintain city website; other duties as required (a more detailed job description and list of duties available upon application).

Apply in person at Uniontown City Hall, call 620-756-4742, or submit your resume via email to [email protected] .  Applications accepted until Noon, August 7, 2025.

 

Opinion, Uncategorized

Squirrel Dynasty by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

Squirrel Dynasty

My rambunctious squirrels provide early-morning entertainment for me. They appear to work hard and play hard all at the same time. Many years ago, our friend Hildred gave us two little pecan trees that my late-husband Jimmy planted. The trees have been bearing nuts for several years but I’ve yet to pick or eat one. That’s because the squirrels are busy little critters and beat me to the pecans every year. I had great fun watching a Momma bird beat the tar out of two squirrels because they were getting too close to her babies’ nest. After their sound beating, they were smart enough to run away and play somewhere else.

We can learn from the bird that it’s the parents’ responsibility to protect and bring up our children in the nurture and admonition of the Lord (ref. Ephesians 6:4). The observation of nature can be a practical teacher if we will only pause and pay attention. In the Book of Proverbs we find both the nature and the spiritual fused together as a relevant learning tool. This Book of Wisdom speaks about the ant, rock badger, locust, lizard, spider, eagle, snake, lion, rooster, etc. Like a rock badger, believers can hide in the Lord as our solid Rock when storms hit us. Just as locusts are part of a swarm, believers are part of a team (the family of God). We can receive great insight and spiritual lessons from the simple things right in front of our eyes.

Humans have a natural tendency to be foolish. But for those who fear (revere) the Lord, wisdom is available to those who sincerely seek it from God. “My child, will you treasure My wisdom? Then, and only then, will you acquire it. And only if you accept My advice and hide it within will you succeed. So train your heart to listen when I speak and open your spirit wide to expand your discernment — then pass it on to your sons and daughters” (Proverbs 2:1-2 TPT). Knowledge is found in books, but wisdom comes straight from God. “Wisdom is a gift from a generous God, and every word He speaks is full of revelation and becomes a fountain of understanding within you. For the Lord has a hidden storehouse of wisdom made accessible to His godly lovers“ (Proverbs 2:6-7 TPT). We need God’s wisdom everyday to guide our steps and direct our life.

God is good, thoughtful, and caring so He created the animal kingdom with instincts. You’ll never find a squirrel reading a book, yet he knows how to outsmart me by eating or burying every last stinkin’ pecan on my place. Yes siree Bob, I have an army of hard-working, fun-loving squirrels with ginormous energy. I researched and found that squirrels like to eat other things besides my pecans and black walnuts. They also enjoy stuffing themselves on vegetables, seeds, insects, fruits, fungi, eggs, plants, berries, cereal, worms, pumpkins, birdseed, cheese, flowers, mushrooms, beans, corn, spinach, celery, and bark. I knew they liked bark because they’ve been chewing on my park bench — even though they‘re surrounded by trees and live in them!

God created an awesome nature for us to enjoy and also learn from. We’re doing ourselves a great disservice when we fail to look for the lessons in nature that can be applied in a spiritual manner. Some have said, “I feel closer to God when I’m fishing.” And I say, “Be wise and do both — go to church and then fish if you want.”

The Key: Join God in His nature and see what you can apply to your spiritual life.

K-State Extension

Backpacks, Bargains and Buying Local

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Amanda Classen. Submitted photo.

 

 

Back-to-school season seems to arrive faster each year, and with inflation affecting everything from pencils to backpacks, families are finding creative ways to shop smarter. While big-box stores may seem like the go-to for deals, shopping locally can be just as cost-effective and even more rewarding. Local businesses not only offer unique products and personalized service, but they also invest in your community. For every $100 spent at a locally owned store, about $68 stays within the community, supporting essential services and local programs.

As you prepare your student for the school year ahead, here are some practical ways to cut costs and support your hometown:

  1. Shop Local First
    Small businesses often have lower overhead and more flexibility, which allows them to offer competitive prices or even negotiate with loyal customers. Many local shops carry school supplies, clothing, and backpacks, and they often have sales or consignment options that rival national retailers. Plus, you’re supporting the businesses that sponsor school programs, youth sports teams, and community events.
  2. Take Inventory
    Before hitting the stores, check your home for leftover supplies from last year. Items like scissors, rulers, and even colored pencils might still be in great shape. Don’t feel pressured to buy everything new; reuse where you can.
  3. Set a Realistic Budget and Watch for Sales!
    Establish your spending limit before you shop and leave some wiggle room for unexpected expenses, like school events or mid-year supply restocks. Be sure to include clothing, technology, lunch containers, and activity fees in your planning. Back-to-school sales start early, but you may find even better deals after school begins. Stock up on items you’ll need later in the year when prices drop. Some stores also match competitors’ prices, which can save time and gas money.
  4. Plan Ahead for Next Year
    Back-to-school shopping is an annual expense—so start preparing early. Take the amount you spent this year, divide it by 12, and save that amount each month. Set up a dedicated savings account or create a labeled envelope to make it automatic and stress-free.

Beyond the savings, shopping locally has a long-term impact. Sales tax from local purchases funds critical services like police, fire departments, and road maintenance. Local businesses often stock unique, one-of-a-kind products and offer exceptional customer service rooted in personal relationships. They’re more likely to adjust inventory based on your needs and support community initiatives that enhance our schools and neighborhoods.

Your dollars matter—and when spent locally, they do double the good. This school year, think beyond the price tag. Support local. Save smart. Strengthen your community. For more information, contact Community Vitality Agent Amanda Clasen at any Southwind District office or [email protected].

Government, Kansas

Become a Voice for Regional Water Issues

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Kansas Water Authority Seeks Regional Advisory Committee Members

The Kansas Water Authority is currently accepting applications for all 14 Regional Advisory Committees. Committee members serve as a voice for water issues in their community. Applications can be found at kwo.ks.gov.

Regional Advisory Committees (RACs) are composed of local stakeholders and water professionals from diverse backgrounds – including agriculture, industry, public water supply, conservation and more.

Each RAC meets to discuss local water issues and to advise the Kansas Water Authority and Kansas Water Office on the issues in their region. RAC members serve as local connections with the public and help to shape statewide water planning by identifying regional priorities and actions.

“Water issues and community needs vary from region to region in our state,” said Connie Owen, Director of the Kansas Water Office. “RAC members serve as boots-on-the-ground perspective and provide crucial, local input for statewide water planning.”

To apply, visit www.kwo.ks.gov/about-us/regional-advisory-committees. Applications are due September 30.

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As the state’s water office, Kansas Water Office conducts water planning, policy coordination and water marketing as well as facilitates public input throughout the state.

The agency prepares the KANSAS WATER PLAN, a plan for water resources development, management and conservation.

 

Government, Kansas

KANSASWORKS Virtual Job Fair Fuels a New Economic Era for Kansas

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TOPEKA – Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland encourages jobseekers and employers searching for available talent to take part in this month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair, hosted by KANSASWORKS, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Wednesday, August 13.

“Kansas businesses are expanding and we’re landing more private sector investment from outside the state than ever before — retaining and creating an unprecedented number of jobs and growing our workforce in the process,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Whether you’re an employer seeking to fill essential roles or a jobseeker looking to take on a new adventure — our job fairs offer the connections, opportunities and resources to grow your future in Kansas.”

The Virtual Job Fair format allows anyone searching for a new job to fill out applications, chat live and interview virtually with participating employers.

This month’s Virtual Statewide Job Fair portal features helpful information such as a jobseeker training video, a list of participating employers and channels for attendees to register and log in. Jobseekers are encouraged to dress professionally, as they might be asked to engage in an interview.

Candidates can participate through any digital device. Any individual with a disability may request accommodations by contacting their nearest workforce center at (877) 509-6757 prior to the event. Registration is required to participate in virtual job fairs, regardless of previous participation. To register, click here.

About the Kansas Department of Commerce:

As the state’s lead economic development agency, the Kansas Department of Commerce strives to empower individuals, businesses and communities to achieve prosperity in Kansas. Commerce accomplishes its mission by developing relationships with corporations, site location consultants and stakeholders in Kansas, the nation and world. Our strong partnerships allow us to help create an environment for existing Kansas businesses to grow and foster an innovative, competitive landscape for new businesses. Through Commerce’s project successes, Kansas was awarded Area Development Magazine’s prestigious Gold Shovel award in 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and was awarded the 2021 and 2022 Governor’s Cup by Site Selection Magazine.

About KANSASWORKS:

KANSASWORKS links businesses, job candidates and educational institutions to ensure that employers can find skilled workers. Services are provided to employers and job candidates through the state’s 27 workforce centers, online or virtual services KANSASWORKS is completely free for all Kansans to use. Learn more at KANSASWORKS.com. State employment opportunities can be found at jobs.ks.gov.

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Fort Scott, Government

FS City Commission Agenda for August 5

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    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 5, 2025  –  6:00 P.M.

 

 

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       Invocation

  1. Approval of Agenda
  2. Consent Agenda
  3. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1389-A – Expense Approval Report – Payment Dates of July 9, 2025 – July 22, 2025 – $914,570.97
  4. Approval of Minutes: Regular Meeting of July 15, 2025, and Special Meeting              of July 30, 2025

 

  1. Public Comment

VII.      Appearances

           

VIII.   Unfinished Business

  1. Cape Seal Payment
  2. Consideration of Bids for Davis Lift Station Pump #2 – Tabled from 7/15/2025

 

  1. New Business

            Public Hearing:

  1. Case No. 1052 – Conditional Use Permit – 2400 S. Main – Amazon Storage Unit – Recommended by Planning Commission on July 9, 2025 

 

            Action Items:

  1. Consideration of Interlocal Agreement and $40,000.00 Match Funds – BNSF Railroad Planning Grant – M. Wyatt
  2. Consideration of members for Fort Scott Historic Preservation & Resource Commission (FSHPRC) – Applicants: Kristina Ellerbe, Peggy Cummings, Rachel French, Martha Jane Gentry, Rhonda Hassig, Arnold Schofield, Jerry Witt and Kathy Dancer – L. Dillon
  3. Consideration of New Policy for RHID Applications – L. Dillon
  4. Consideration of FRAME Grant Donation – L. Dillon

 

  1. Reports and Comments
  2. Adjourn
Fort Scott, Government

Agenda for FS City Commission Special Meeting on August 4

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    NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR SPECIAL

MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION

City Hall Commission Room – 123 S. Main Street, Fort Scott, KS 66701

August 4, 2025  –  5:00 P.M.

 

 

  1.     Call to Order/Roll Call
  2. Pledge of Allegiance

III.       New Business

            Action Items:

  1. Consideration of MOU – IT Services – USD 234 and City of Fort Scott – B. Matkin
  2. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3784 – Citizens’ IT Advisory Board – T. Dancer
  3. Consideration of Ordinance No. 3785 – Contract Advisory Board – T. Dancer
  4. Adjourn

Bourbon County Local News