Government, Kansas

Gov. Kelly’s First Legislative Session

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Governor Kelly highlights progress to rebuild Kansas
Outlines successes of first legislative session of her administration

Highlighting the significant progress made to rebuild Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly outlined the major accomplishments of her first legislative session as governor during a press conference this morning.

 

“We came into quite a mess in January. We’ve worked tirelessly to rebuild our state, so we can efficiently and effectively deliver the services Kansans expect,” Kelly said. “A lot of progress has been made, but we still have work to do.”

 

Kelly highlighted funding for public schools as her most notable accomplishment. The passage of bipartisan legislation resulted in $90 million more for schools, in addition to the $800 million added over the last two years. These investments have the potential to put an end to the cycle of litigation around this issue.

 

“As I’ve said, I will be the education governor Kansas deserves,” Kelly said. “This legislation represents a significant investment in the future of our students and our state.”

 

The governor also noted the steps taken to repair Kansas’ foster care system. The Legislature endorsed the governor’s budget proposal to align Kansas guidelines with the Family First Prevention Services Act, allowing the state to draw down millions in federal funds to help families before they need support from the foster care system.

 

“I’m pleased that the Legislature approved funding for 42 new social workers, so we can reduce caseloads and better serve vulnerable children and their families,” Kelly said.

 

Kelly also began the process of reducing transfers from the “Bank of KDOT,” the money from the state’s highway transportation program. Previously, this fund was used by the Legislature in past years to pay for programs unrelated to the transportation needs of the state.

 

“The State Highway Fund is one of Kansas’ most important job-creating tools,” Kelly said. “After years of fiscal crisis, we are finally using the state’s infrastructure dollars to fund infrastructure projects, instead of paying for failed tax policy.”

 

The governor also established the Office of Rural Prosperity during this first legislative session.

 

“Those are just a few of many highlights from this legislative session,” Kelly said. “And to top it all off, as promised, we accomplished all of this without a tax increase.”

 

The governor also noted key areas of concern during the press conference. She emphasized the importance of continued fiscal restraint, the corrections emergency left to address, and the disappointing lack of a Medicaid expansion vote.

 

“Because of Senate leadership, thousands of Kansans will go without healthcare for yet another year,” Kelly said. “For some, a year without healthcare can very well mean the difference between life and death. I want Kansans to know they have a champion in the Governor’s office who will keep fighting alongside them until we win this fight – no matter how long it takes.”

Bourbon County, Business, Entertainment, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott by The Chamber

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Care to Share (“The Sharing Bucket”) will be hosting the 5th Annual “TaTa” Ride on June 15th, 2019 and an “AR-15 Gun Raffle”. Raffle tickets are $5 each and on sale now! ATF Regulations apply. Contact Stacey Wright for tickets or more info. (See flyer below)
Win a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico! Drawing tickets are $5 each, or 3 for $10. All proceeds go to the Good Samaritan Program, which directly benefits Fort Scott Presbyterian Village residents who have outlived their financial resources through no fault of their own.

Tickets are available at the Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall St. (See flyer below for more info)
Hedgehog.INK now has gardening books on the sale rack in the front of the store – These books are FREE, for a donation to Tri-Valley Horticulture Therapy Program (see flyer below for more info)
Hedgehog.INK is celebrating Mother’s Day! Bring in an APRON (yours, your mother’s, grandmother’s, or one you bought at a garage sale) to be displayed in the store from May 1-15th. Be sure to label it in some way with your name
All cookbooks will be on sale for $50% off!!
Artist of the Month at Hedgehog.INK – Art by Uniontown students will be on display in the store throughout the month of May
Walgreens is looking for sponsors to donate noses to the local schools in Fort Scott to help spread the word for Red Nose Day. This is a great charity opportunity, and a way to increase awareness about childhood poverty. Noses this year are $2.00, and will come in a blind mystery bag containing one of five unique superhero noses.

Contact Vincent Ratcliff, manager of your local Fort Scott Walgreens, to purchase noses or to get further information (PLEASE SEE FLYER BELOW)
Benefit Bass Fishing Tournaments & Raffles for Class of ’91 Grad Chad Elmer – Entry fees will go toward’s Chad’s upcoming expenses and prize money. Raffles include fishing and outdoor gear, ammo, an AR15 gun, and more! (See flyer below for complete details)
10-11
Town-wide Garage Sale sponsored by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce- Maps will be available Thursday, May 9th through Saturday, May 11th at the following locations: Bids and Dibs, Casey’s, Don’s Smoke Shop, 5 Corners, all Pete’s locations, and the Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall St.
10-11
Pioneer Harvest Swap Meet – Bourbon County Fairgrounds, 2102 S. Huntington Blvd. in Fort Scott – Doors open at 8am

12th Annual Swap Meet, sponsored by Pioneer Harvest Fiesta

Flea market & garage sale items, antique gas engines & related parts, antique auto parts, farm tractors & tractor parts, farm equipment & accessories, literature, books & manuals. Something for everyone!

The grounds will be open Thursday, May 9th for setup. Camping available with electric ($20 per day)

Free admission to buyers, $10 booth fee. Contact Allen Warren at: 620-224-7761
10-11
Weekly Livestock Sale at Fort Scott Livestock Market. Starting at 10am on both Fridays & Saturdays
Fridays:  Cows, Pairs, Big Bulls
Saturdays:  Stocker & Feeder Cattle, followed by any cows & bulls that come in late Friday & Saturday. Cafe open both sale days. You don’t have to be a buyer, just to come watch the sale and visit the cafe!
10 Friday Night Concert in the Park – Sponsored by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce – Heritage Park Pavillion, 1st & Main, 7-8pm

This Friday night at the Heritage Park Pavilion (1st Street and Main) will feature the Sekanaires Quartet. The quartet members are Ray Mauck, Curtis Ramsey, Steve Bell and Ralph Carlson. The quartet was formed in the early 1960s and has made seven recordings. The concert will start at 7 pm and will move to the Common Grounds Coffee shop in the event in inclement weather. This is the 2nd show of the new season

The concerts are organized by Ralph Carlson. If you or someone you know is interested in performing, contact Ralph at [email protected]

Bring your lawn chair as seating is limited
11 Benefit Bass Fishing Tournaments for Class of ’91 Grad Chad Elmer – Check-in 5:15 a.m. @ 223 N. National Ave., tournament starts at 6 a.m. sharp, weigh-in 3 p.m.
@ 223 N. National Ave.

Everyone who knows Chad Elmer and and for those of you who may not… He was recently diagnosed with stage 4 colon cancer and they found a couple spots on the liver. He is under going some pretty aggressive chemo therapy treatment

There are three tournaments: May 11th, June 15th, and July 27th

Entry will be $25/person. 50% of the entry fees will go to Chad to help with his up coming expenses and the other 50% will go to prize money

There will be raffles at each tournament, including an AR15 gun raffle (see flyer below for complete information)
11 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Saturday Mornings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
11 Storytime at Hedgehog.INK! “Pirates Ahoy!” – 16 S. Main St., 10:30-11:30am, the second Saturday of every month

Storytime and special activity with the Fort Scott High School Thespians

Visit: https://www.facebook.com/hedgesbookstore/  (See flyer below)
12 Team Trivia at the Boiler Room Brewhaus –
10 S. National, 3-5pm

Exciting, fun and challenging team trivia. Put your team together (maximum of 8 teams, maximum of 5 members on a team)

$5 per person. Cash prizes for winning team. Pre-register at the tap room
13 Uniontown Regional High School Tournament
13
Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Accent Dental, LLC, hosted by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce – 204 State St. in Fort Scott

The event will begin at 5:15pm, with remarks and ribbon cutting at 5:30pm. Refreshments will be served. (See flyer below for info)
14-15 Story Time – Fort Scott Public Library,  201 S. National Ave., 10-11am
14 T.O.P.S Meeting – Buck Run Community Center, 3-4pm
14 Fort Scott Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 2108 S. Horton, 12-1pm
14 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Tuesday evenings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
14 USD 234 Board of Education Meeting – 424 S. Main St.,
5:30-6:30pm
14 Historic Preservation Association of Bourbon County Meeting – Old Congregational Church, 502 S. National Ave., Board meeting at 6:30pm, program at 7pm

We will have great fellowship, refreshments, and a door prize – hope you can attend!
15
Rotary Meeting – Presbyterian Church,  308 S. Crawford St., 12-1pm
15
Adult Coloring Program – Fort Scott Public Library,
201 S. National Ave., 2-4pm

Join us in the library events room for a relaxing afternoon of coloring and conversation. Library provides coloring pages, pens and pencils, and snacks. Bring your own beverage of choice (no alcohol, please)
15
GEDTAG (Teen Advisory Group) – Fort Scott Public Library,
201 S. National Ave., 4-5pm

Exclusively for middle and high school students. We have meetings weekly, including a games & snack night, a community service project, a book club meeting, and a craft night each month
Make a difference in your community while having fun at TAG! Each meeting includes food, drinks, and a good time with your fellow teens. Bring your friends!
15 Presbyterian Good Sam Dinner and Auction – Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, 2401 S. Horton

Auction at 5pm, dinner from 4:30 to 6:30pm

Chicken Mary’s dinner and homemade desserts! Chance to win a trip to Santa Fe, New Mexico

Meal tickets are $9 in advance, $12 at the door. Carry-out is available

Drawing tickets are $5 each or three for $10. Tickets are available at Presbyterian Village or the Chamber of Commerce, 231 E. Wall St.

All proceeds go to the Good Samaritan Program, which directly benefits Fort Scott Presbyterian Village residents who have outlived their financial resources through no fault of their own (See flyer below for more info)
15
GED Graduation 2019 – FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center, 2108 S. Horton, 6pm
Fort Scott Community College will conduct its annual Adult Basic Education/General Equivalency Diploma graduation at 6 p.m. Wednesday, May 15 in the auditorium of the Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center on the FSCC campus, 2108 S. Horton St. The ceremony is for students who have completed the GED program this past year.  A reception will immediately follow the graduation
16
Join us for the weekly Chamber Coffee of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at 8am. This week’s Chamber Coffee will be hosted by Fort Scott Paws & Claws Animal Shelter
Location: 8 N. Judson
16 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony – The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the Ribbon Cutting Ceremony celebrating the opening of the Fort Scott Paws & Claws Animal Shelter’s new location at 8 N. Judson St. The event will take place Thursday, May 16th, immediately following the Chamber Coffee, which begins at 8 a.m. at the same location

The new Paws and Claws location at 8 N. Judson St. in downtown Fort Scott will serve as a cat shelter, an office, and an intake and adoption area
Please join Fort Scott Paws & Claws Animal Shelter May 16th, 2019 for the Chamber of Commerce Coffee at 8 a.m., with remarks and ribbon cutting immediately following
16
Business Basics: Quickbooks, presented by Kansas SBDC at PSU – FSCC Bailey Hall, Room A-130, 2108 S. Horton St., 8:30am-4:30pm

Business owners and entrepreneurs seeking information on growing their business through proper financial management. This program is appropriate for those who have started or are thinking about starting a business

Learn some of the essentials of navigating Quickbooks desktop software. We’ll cover basic accounting and multiple topics including: -Cash vs. accrual -Financial statements -Chart of accounts -Sales receipts -Invoices -Receiving payment/making deposits -Understanding banking and credit card statements -Budgeting (See flyer below for more info)

To register, please visit:
16 Pioneer Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 12pm-1pm
16
Farm Pond Management class offered by Southwind Extension District – Community Building, 105 N. Prairie Ave., Hepler, KS, 5:45-8pm

5:45-6pm: Registration
6-6:45: Fish Management & Stocking – Connor Ossowski, Fisheries Biologist
6:45-7:15: Sponsored Meal
7:15-8pm: Aquatic Weed Control – Charlie Lee, KSU Wildlife Specialist

RSVP by May 13th. To register for this FREE event, please contact Chris Petty at [email protected], or Jeri Geren at [email protected], or call K-State Research and Extension, Wildcat District – Girard office at 620-724-8233 (See flyer below for more info)
16 Thursday Card Players – Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Ave., 6-9pm

Free weekly event to anyone that wants to play cards, drink coffee, eat snacks, and socialize
16
A Star is Born (or Died) – Boiler Room Brewhaus,
10 S. National Ave., 7-9pm

Join us at The Boiler Room Brewhaus on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 for karaoke fun.  Cheer on your local, favorite star!
17-18 FREE Bourbon County Dump Day, Residential Only, Includes Tires – 2286 Noble Rd., northeast of city limits

There will be no charge to haul solid waste or construction and demolition materials to the landfill from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, May 17 and from 8 a.m. to noon Saturday, May 18

Residents will not be restricted on the number of tires brought to the landfill
17-18
Weekly Livestock Sale at Fort Scott Livestock Market. Starting at 10am on both Fridays & Saturdays
Fridays:  Cows, Pairs, Big Bulls
Saturdays:  Stocker & Feeder Cattle, followed by any cows & bulls that come in late Friday & Saturday. Cafe open both sale days. You don’t have to be a buyer, just to come watch the sale and visit the cafe!
17 Art Walk, hosted by Bourbon County Arts Council – Liberty Theatre Patio, 113 S. Main St., 5-8pm
17 Friday Night Concert in the Park – Heritage Park Pavillion, 1st & Main St., 7-8pm

This Friday night at the Heritage Park Pavilion (1st Street and Main) will feature the Sekanaires Quartet. The quartet members are Ray Mauck, Curtis Ramsey, Steve Bell and Ralph Carlson. The concert will start at 7 pm and will move to the Common Grounds Coffee shop in the event in inclement weather

The concerts are organized by Ralph Carlson. If you or someone you know is interested in performing, contact Ralph at [email protected]

Bring your lawn chair as seating is limited
18 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Saturday Mornings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
18 Kiwanis 3-Person Scholarship Scramble – Woodland Hills Golf Course, 2412 S. Horton, 9am-2pm

8am registration, 9am shotgun start. $60 per player/$180 per team. To register, contact Shannon O’Neil at 620-223-5060
18 Marriage Night – Community Christian Church, 1919 S. Horton (enter on east side of building), dinner at 5pm, livestream from 6-9pm

Join us for a one night simulcast event to dedicate time for your marriage, packed with laughter and lessons you can apply immediately to your own marriage. We’ll be hearing from two great couples- Francis and Lisa Chan and Les and Leslie Parrott-with standup from comedian Michael Jr.

$15/person. Call 620-223-1500 to register

Watch a YouTube video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzJ_fv6RCm0
19 Team Trivia at the Boiler Room Brewhaus – 10 S. National, 3-5pm

Exciting, fun and challenging team trivia. Put your team together (maximum of 8 teams, maximum of 5 members on a team)

$5 per person. Cash prizes for winning team. Pre-register at the tap room
19 Steinway Thank You Concert at Fort Scott High School – 1005 S. Main St., 3-5pm

Please join us in a special concert of thanks to all the donors who funded the restoration of the Fort Scott High School Steinway grand piano

The concert will feature various musical artists, both students and adults, from the school and community
Most importantly, we will unveil the completely restored Steinway for the concert

The concert is free and open to the public
19 Chamber Board Meeting – Papa Don’s, 12-1pm
20 Community Book Club – location to be determined,
7-8pm

This month’s book is “At Home”, by Bill Bryson. Email Sara Coon at: [email protected] for location
21-22 Story Time – Fort Scott Public Library,  201 S. National Ave., 10-11am
21 T.O.P.S Meeting – Buck Run Community Center,
3-4pm
21 Fort Scott Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 2108 S. Horton, 12-1pm
21 Community Bingo at Country Place Senior Living (3rd Tuesday of every month) – 820 S. Horton, 2-4pm

Residents and the public are invited the 3rd Tuesday of each month for Community Bingo at Country Place Senior Living
21 Farmer’s Market – Skubitz Plaza (in front of the historic fort)

Tuesday evenings, 8:00am – 12:00pm

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market is a farmer driven and run market. The farmers work hard to produce the very finest produce available. We also provide a great venue for community organizations to promote their mission and raise funds

We are focused on fresh locally produce farm products
21
Tractor Safety Training offered by Southwind Extension District – FSCC John Deere Tech Building, 2223 S. Horton St., 5-9pm

Youth who are planning to do farm work for someone other than a parent or guardian, are are 14 or 15 years of age must attend a tractor safety course. Attendance is required to satisfy U.S. Department of Labor requirements. These requirements allow youth to be employed at certain hazardous farm tasks. Individuals must complete 20 hours of tractor driving (on their own) in order to receive a completed certificate

Register by calling the Southwind Fort Scott Office at 620-223-3720 no later than May 17, 2019 (See flyer below for more info)
21 City Commission Meeting – City Hall, 123 S. Main, 6-7pm
22 Breakfast Bingo at Buck Run Community Center (2nd & 4th Wed. of each month) – 735 Scott Ave., 9-10am

Come drink some coffee and play some bingo at Buck Run.  Staff will provide the bingo cards, the caller, and coffee.  Prizes provided by the Fort Scott Recreation Commission
22 Rotary Meeting – Presbyterian Church,  308 S. Crawford St., 12-1pm
22
Adult Coloring Program – Fort Scott Public Library,
201 S. National Ave., 2-4pm

Join us in the library events room for a relaxing afternoon of coloring and conversation. Library provides coloring pages, pens and pencils, and snacks. Bring your own beverage of choice (no alcohol, please)
22
TAG (Teen Advisory Group) – Fort Scott Public Library,
201 S. National Ave., 4-5pm

Exclusively for middle and high school students. We have meetings weekly, including a games & snack night, a community service project, a book club meeting, and a craft night each month
Make a difference in your community while having fun at TAG! Each meeting includes food, drinks, and a good time with your fellow teens. Bring your friends!
23-26 Dave Regan Tournament (FSHS) – LaRoche Baseball Complex, 4805 Campbell Dr.

Email Josh Regan for more information: [email protected]
23
Join us for the weekly Chamber Coffee of the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at 8am. This week’s Chamber Coffee will be hosted by Niece Products
Location: 3904 Liberty Bell Rd.
23 Pioneer Kiwanis Meeting – FSCC Heritage Room, 12pm-1pm
23 Thursday Card Players – Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Ave., 6-9pm

Free weekly event to anyone that wants to play cards, drink coffee, eat snacks, and socialize
23 Author Talk and Book Signing with Carol Russell – Hedgehog.INK!, 16 S. Main St.

Meet and greet author Carol Russell. Carol Russell is a freelance writer; she has written four books and has had many articles, devotions, and children’s stories published. She will be introducing her new book, “Jackson’s Run”

There will be an author talk, Q & A and booksigning. Her book will be available for purchase in the bookstore. Light refreshments will be served
23
A Star is Born (or Died) – Boiler Room Brewhaus, 10 S. National Ave., 7-9pm

Join us at The Boiler Room Brewhaus on Thursday evenings from 7 to 9 for karaoke fun.  Cheer on your local, favorite star!
Save the Date:
– May 24-27 – Symbols of Sacrifice at Fort Scott National Historic Site
– May 24 – Flicks on the Bricks (Despicable Me)
– May 24 – Friday Night Concert in the Park (The Sekanaires Quartet)
– May 25 – Woodland Hills Memorial Weekend Scramble
– May 25 – Farmers’ Market
– May 25 – Carter Sampson @ Boiler Room Brewhaus
– May 26 – Dunn Memorial Golf Outing
– May 26 VFW Post 1165 Dedication of the U.S. Navy Memorial at Fort Scott National Cemetery
– May 27 – Team Trivia at Boiler Room Brewhaus
Click here for full events listing on our website.
Obituary

Obituary of William “Rodney” Graham

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William ‘Rodney’ Graham, 62, Fort Scott, passed away on Wednesday, May 8, 2019 at his home, Fort Scott, KS.

Rodney was born May 23, 1956 in Fort Scott to Paul A. Graham, Sr. and Naomi Clounch. He lived in Fort Scott as a young child prior to moving to Iola, KS where he attended public schools. He graduated from Iola Senior High School in 1974 where he was a high school football standout.

He furthered his education by attending Baker University, Baldwin, KS, where he played football. He worked at Win-Vent, a division of Extrusions, Inc, Fort Scott.

He enjoyed fishing, working outdoors especially yard work, BBQ grilling, and had a passion for watching Nascar racing, and all athletic events.

Rodney married Glenda J. Johnson July 28th, 1978. With this union, their blended family became one.  They divorced in 2018.

He is survived by his mother, Naomi Clounch, Iola, KS, four sons, Bo Graham and wife Jamie, Fort Scott, Chris Harris and wife Amie, Anthem, AZ, Tyrone Harris and wife Gabriela, Neosho, MO, and JB Johnson; two sisters, Teresa Clounch, Hays, KS, and Gena Clounch, Iola, KS, one brother, Paul Graham, Jr., Los Angeles, CA.;  seven grandchildren Jordan Harris, Kayla Harris, Tiana Harris, Drake Sweeton, Raine Harris, Tyrone Harris Jr, Maddox Moss, and Blakely Graham; a host of aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews and cousins.

He was preceded in death by his father, Paul, A. Graham, SR., stepfather Eugene. E. Clounch, JR, two brothers, Thurman Graham and Nathaniel Graham.

There was cremation

. A memorial service will be held at 11:00 AM Thursday May 16th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.

Memorial are suggested to the Blakely Graham Scholarship Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Obituary

Obituary of Donna Needham

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Donna Ruth Needham’s journey to our Lord ended peacefully on May 7, 2019, in Fort Scott, Kansas. Her journey began June 21, 1931, in Wichita, Kansas.

Donna was a graduate of Wichita North High School. She earned her B.S. in education at Pittsburg State University. There she was a member of Alpha Sigma Alpha and gained lifelong friends as she did everywhere she was. After teaching at Hutchinson High School (1954-1962), she moved to Fort Scott and began her teaching career at Cottey College. She earned her Master’s in Education at Pittsburg State University. She retired from Cottey as Professor Emerita in 1997. While there, she oversaw the physical education program and served as chair of the Social Science division. In 1996, Donna received the Missouri Governor’s Excellence in Teaching Award.

Donna focused on all things water-related! She taught synchronized swimming, competitive swimming, diving and water safety. She was especially skilled at working with those who feared the water. She was also a certified trainer for the American Red Cross. It was not uncommon to see Donna with her friends in her beloved boat on Fort Scott Lake where she loved to water ski and frequently taught others to water ski.

Donna was preceded in death by her parents Ray and Thelma (Warne) Needham, and her sister Faye Shogren.

Survivors include her nephew Michael Shogren (Debbie) of Wichita, Kansas, niece Donna Robbins (Kevin Fessman) of Derby, Kansas, nephew Scott Shogren (Wendy) of Wichita, Kansas, and numerous great-nieces and nephews.

Donna’s sense of humor, honesty, generosity and infectious laughter endeared her to everyone she met. She will be greatly missed by dear friends! She will be especially missed by Lisa Proctor of Nevada, Missouri, Karen Polon and Ed Hyde of Nevada, Missouri, Mary Ann Benage of Fort Scott, Kay Roberts of Columbia, Missouri, Becki and Kent Roberts of Fort Scott, and Janie Harrison of Conway, Arkansas. We are grateful for the care and comfort that she was given at Presbyterian Village.

Her faith and her church Mary Queen of Angels were the light in the darkness we call life.

Following cremation, the Rosary will be prayed at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, May 21, 2019, at Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church, Fort Scott. 

Father Yancey Burgess will celebrate the funeral mass at 10:00 a.m. with burial following in the St. Mary’s Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

  Memorials may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School or Cottey College and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, PO Box 309, Fort Scott, KS 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.

Bourbon County, Health Care

Health Department Moving Soon And A New Area Director

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Rebecca Johnson, SEKMCHD Director.

The Southeast Kansas Multi-County Health Department, with a facility currently housed in a modular office building on the Bourbon County Courthouse square, is moving.

“We hope to be completed by the end of May,” Bourbon County Commissioner Jeff Fischer said.

“Every day we are getting closer to moving in,” Rebecca Johnson, SEKMCHD Director said. Johnson assumed the position on April 1, 2019.

“There will be lots of possibilities for health care related agencies to use the facility,” Johnson said. “We are looking into a telemedicine possibility.”

The new location is at 6th and Horton Streets and will provide more than twice the size of the existing building, Fischer said.

The Bourbon County employees will remain the same: Alice Maffet-public health nurse, Kristi George-administrative assistant and head billing clerk, Gayle Green, Healthy Start Home Visitor and Johnson.

“I’ll be working there primarily,” Johnson said.

Chardel Hastings, the previous SEKMCHD director, is stepping into the position of Woodson County Public Health Nurse, Johnson said.

 

Jeff Fischer, District 2 Bourbon County Commissioner.

In December 2018, SEKMCHD purchased the building from Cornerstone Bible Church. The structure was originally built by Mercy Hospital in 1992 to provide health care services.

 

A building permit was granted to modify the western side of the building, replacing interior walls and providing the ability to secure the SEKMCHD space from the commons areas that include the waiting room and reception area, Fischer said.

 

Walls and doors were installed to create three new office spaces and two examination rooms, he said.

 

“Painting is going on right now,” Fischer said. “Once that is done, the electrician and cabinet folks can come in.”

 

The electrical, plumbing and cabinetry work has yet to be completed.

Opinion

Martha, Again By Patty LaRoche

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Patty LaRoche

Last December I wrote about the Biblical account of Mary and Martha, sharing that I am a Martha personality (the woman who was frustrated because her sister sat at Jesus’ feet while she prepared the food). This past week I stepped even closer into understanding her aggravation when our friends Jack and Lael came to visit Dave and me here in Florida. Their family friend, Spencer, portraying “Scar” in the touring Broadway production of Disney’s Lion King, was performing 30 minutes away. He was able to get us discounted tickets.

About a week before their visit, Lael called and asked if Spencer could hang out at our house the day before we saw his performance. It had been years since we all attended the same church in Texas, so when he arrived shortly before lunch, I was surprised to see a mature, good-looking young man instead of a much shorter, scrawnier teen I remembered.

While in the kitchen finishing lunch preparations, I could hear some of the conversation in our living room. Dave, Jack and Lael were asking about Spencer’s Broadway connections and experiences. HELLO! I am the theater person. I am the one who would kill (okay, wound) to soak up information from someone who actually had “made it” in New York. Occasionally Lael would saunter into the kitchen to see if I needed help, but a real martyr suffers in silence, so I told her to go back to her friend, that I was fine.

I wasn’t.

I heard words like “audition,” “theatre schedule,” “Scar’s mask,” “choreography,” all reminding me that I was missing out on information that would energize me and give me insight into the field that I loved. I never would have an opportunity like this again. (Actually, I wasn’t even having it this time.)

When enough was enough, I marched into the living room and announced, “I now have renewed empathy for Martha when Mary got to sit at the feet of Jesus and take in all he had to share. Not that Spencer is Jesus, but I want you all to know this is really, really hard.” Everyone—especially Spencer– cracked up.

Over lunch, Spencer patiently answered my dozens of questions. I wanted details. What did he do in his audition that the other 30 did not? What other roles had he played? Which was the most challenging? How long did it take for the makeup artist to create his character and how many costumes did he have? I hung on his every word.

But the best was to come. Spencer invited us backstage following the matinee performance we attended the following day. I almost hyperventilated. First, we met the man who tended to the puppets between shows. With a Masters degree in puppet design, he demonstrated the hand levers that worked Zazu, the bird puppet. Spencer’s head mask was next. Strapped to his finger was a tiny control with buttons that regulated its large movements. Backstage was insane with its organization of the costumes, scenery, props and animal mechanisms. When Lael invited Spencer to grab something to eat with us before his evening show, he said he would love to. (No doubt to answer my remaining questions, I told myself.)

Lion King’s next stop was Miami, only two hours away. I thought about going again, but this time had been up close and personal. Miami would not be.

I knew the difference. So did Martha. Her house guest wasn’t just anyone. It was Jesus who might not return to their home again, and she was missing out on hearing the Good News from the One who knew it best. I understood her pain. I could relate! My time with Spencer taught me a powerful lesson, one I won’t ever forget.

Next time, I will order pizza.

Entertainment, Fort Scott

Fort Scott Library May Newsletter

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Fort Scott Public Library Newsletter
May 2019

Welcome

We hope you enjoy the Fort Scott Public Library newsletter. You are receiving it because you provided us with your email address for library notifications. If you don’t want to receive future editions, you can unsubscribe using the link in this newsletter, or email the library [email protected], and we will remove your address from the list.
Previous editions of this newsletter are available on our website: fortscott.mykansaslibrary.org

Programs and information for Adults

Coloring for Adults
Wednesdays at the Library from 2:00-4:00

We supply coloring pages, pens and pencils, and snacks. You’re welcome to bring your own supplies and projects, if you prefer.

Ongoing Book Sale
We have a shelf and 2 carts of books for sale downstairs ALL the time!
Paperback     $0.25
Hardback    $0.50
Other Items   $1.00 (or as marked)

Download ebooks, audiobooks, comics, TV episodes, movies, music, and more. All you need is your library card login and a valid email address. Ask us if you need assistance.

Download ebooks and audiobooks. All you need is your library card login. Ask us if you need assistance.

 
 
 
Download ebooks and audiobooks from the State Library of Kansas. All you need is a Kansas Library eCard. Ask us if you need assistance.

For Kids

BLAST OFF TO A UNIVERSE OF STORIES THIS SUMMER!
 
Kick-off Summer Reading on June 5, 10-12 at the Ellis Fine Arts Center with a Space Camp Party for the whole family! We will have activities for all age levels, games, snacks, prizes, and more!
On June 11 at 10 am, join us again at Ellis for Musician Alan Cunningham’s entertaining performance.
Summer reading begins its weekly programs at the library on June 18 & 19 at 10 am. We will explore the cosmos and stories, make crafts, do science experiments, snack, and award reading prizes throughout the summer with identical weekly programs on Tuesdays & Wednesdays! Note: There will be NO regular programs at the library the weeks of July 3 or July 16, due to performances at the Ellis Center. If you would like to volunteer at or donate to a program, please let Miss Val know at [email protected]. We NEED volunteers like you!
Registration forms and fliers for summer reading have been sent home through local schools, preschools, and daycares. They are also available at the library, Buck Run, and Family Video. You are now able to register online, if you’d rather. Click here to fill out the form. Register by June 4 to earn an early bird prize (must be redeemed at the library’s downstairs desk)!

Story Time
Kids of all ages, join Miss Val for Storytime on Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10 a.m.! Come for an hour of stories, coloring, crafts, snacks, and fun! Upcoming themes include Dr. Seuss and spring babies. Suggest favorites your child is interested in for us to use as future themes here. Story time photos are posted to our Facebook Story Time Album. If you would like to contribute a special prop or supplies to storytime or be a guest speaker, please contact Miss Val. Our last storytime before summer reading will take place on May 29.
 
1,000 Books Before Kindergarten
Join our free early literacy program and steer your baby or preschooler child toward academic success! Studies show that children who are read to from an early age develop better vocabulary, make more connections in their brains, and form the needed skills to read by themselves much quicker than their average peers who are not read to. Sign up by stopping in at the library for your first reading log, welcome letter, and other paperwork. Take a look at our awesome readers here.
           

For Teens

Teen Summer Reading

Kick off the summer with A Universe of Games Party at The Keyhole on May 29, 4 – 6 pm. 
Weekly meetings on Wednesdays at 4:15 p.m. will focus on creative writing, community service projects, gaming, book club, and crafting, with a special focus on stories and space throughout the summer. Reading prizes and books will be awarded for every 200 pages or 3 hours of reading.
We NEED volunteers for our teen program. Please contact Miss Val at [email protected] if you would like to help!

Teen Advisory Group (TAG)
Every Wednesday 4:15 – 5 p.m.
Middle & high school students meet weekly with activities normally in the following order: Week 1: Community Service Project; Week 2: Arts & Crafts; Week 3: Games & Snacks Night (4-6 p.m.); Week 4: American Idiots Book Club. If you would like to donate treats for the teens, please contact Miss Val at [email protected].
 
Community Service
Come on June 5, 4:15 – 5 p.m., to help prepare for the summer reading program over free snacks and drinks! Miss Val is happy to provide recommendation letters which include statements of service work done upon request – perfect for accompanying résumés and college applications!
Arts & Crafts
On May 8, 4:15 – 5 p.m., join Miss Val to paint your interpretation of “A Universe of Stories” onto a mini canvas and/or help create tabletop planets for our kick-off party, while enjoying free treats!
Games & Snacks Night
Come play board and card games while snacking on delicious goodies, along with soda and bottled water, on May 15, 4 – 6 p.m. Bring your own board and card games to play if you want, provided they are suitable for a general audience. Tabletop role-playing games are welcome too!
 
Due to the end of the school year and preparation for summer reading, there will be no TAG meeting on May 22.

For Families

Maker Monday 
Create with kits on May 13, 4 – 5 p.m. at this program designed mainly for elementary school and middle school kids. Use one of our craft kits to make a cool project, or invent your own. Enjoy a snack and water as you unwind from a school day. Please share this event and invite your friends! All ages are welcome. Children 2nd grade and below must have an adult with them at all times.

New books–Adult Fiction

Miss Julia takes the wheel
by Ann B Ross

Miss Julia’s efforts to understand mysteries surrounding an unscrupulous new doctor and his painfully shy wife are complicated by Lloyd’s first car and a newly divorced LuAnne’s makeover in accordance with a new funeral home job.

The A list
by Judith A Jance

Settling into a quieter life a decade after a career scandal, a once-high-profile newscaster is approached by someone from her past who compels her to make a difficult choice. 100,000 first printing.

The tinderbox
by Beverly Lewis

A devastating family secret hidden in an heirloom tinderbox launches a Lancaster County Amish family into turmoil, threatening the marriage prospects of a 19-year-old girl who witnesses her neighbors turning on one another. Simultaneous.

New books–Adult Nonfiction

Soldier, sailor, frogman, spy, airman, gangster, kill or die : how the Allies won on D-Day
by Giles Milton

A chronicle of the first 24 hours of the D-Day invasion shares the perspectives of a diverse range of Allied, German and French contributors to explore the conflict’s strategic mastery and human realities.

No beast so fierce : the terrifying true story of the Champawat Tiger, the deadliest animal in history
by Dane Huckelbridge

Provides a true account of the deadliest animal of all time, the Champawat Tiger—responsible for killing more than 400 humans in northern India in the first decade of the 20th century—and the hunter who finally brought it down. 75,000 first printing.

New books–Young Adult Fiction & Graphic Novels

A Court of Frost and Starlight
by Sarah J Maas

A novella follow-up to A Court of Wings and Ruin finds Feyre, Rhys and their companions diligently working to rebuild the Night Court and the vastly changed world beyond only to find Feyre’s first Winter Solstice as High Lady complicated by the scars impacting the future of her loved ones. By the best-selling author of the Throne of Glass series.

An Affair of Poisons: No one looks kindly on the killer of a king
by Addie Thornley

A reimagining of the infamous 17th-century poisoning scandal involving Louis XIV finds a young alchemist discovering her mother’s secret criminal activities before teaming up with an illegitimate royal in a rebellion against a murderous underground society. A first novel.

Children of Eden
by Joey Graceffa

As an illegal second child hiding from the world and living vicariously through her twin brother, Rowan makes a reckless decision to go out into the world for one night of adventure and becomes a renegade on the run.

Confessions of a Teenage Leper
by Ashley Little

Struggling with the fallout of mistaken diagnoses and disappointed hopes, a once-popular cheerleader from a small Texas community learns that she has a rare disease before reevaluating her past choices and navigating a difficult recovery. By the award-winning author of The New Normal. 

Four Dead Queens
by Astrid Scholte

Keralie is the best pickpocket in all of the kingdoms of Quadara, but when she steals a “comm disk” and realizes a royal murder plot is afoot, she must learn who to trust and fast.

Furyborn
by Claire Legrand

Revealed as one of two prophesied queens destined to shape their world, Rielle embarks on a series of dangerous magical trials that link her to the other queen, a ruthless bounty hunter born a thousand years later who joins a rebel captain to fight imperial corruption in the hope of rescuing her abducted mother. By the author of Winterspell.

Internment
by Samira Ahmed

Forced into an interment camp for Muslim-American citizens in a near-future United States, 17-year-old Layla Amin helps forge an alliance of new friends and outside sympathizers before becoming the leader of a revolution against the camp’s corrupt guards. 

Ms. Marvel: Damage Per Second
by G. Willow Wilson

A latest anthology of Ms. Marvel comics collects Issues 13 to 18 and follows the adventures of lonely superhero Kamala Khan throughout a turbulent post-Civil War II election campaign. 

Superman: Dawnbreaker
by Matt de la Peña

A novelization of a Superman origin story finds a young Clark Kent teaming up with best friend Lana Lang to uncover a dark secret in their Smallville hometown, an effort that is complicated by his increasingly conspicuous super-abilities.

Ship It
by Britta Lundin

Told from two viewpoints, Forest, a television actor who needs more fans, and Claire, a teen fan fiction blogger, are teamed to raise his profile despite their disagreement over whether his character is gay.

New books–Juvenile Fiction & Non-Fiction

Everything You Need for a Treehouse
by Carter Higgins

A tree, timber, tools, a rope of twisted twine all all things you need to build a treehouse–but most of all you need time and imagination.

5-Minute Marvel Stories
by Andy Schmidt

An anthology of 12 five-minute stories is comprised of old favorites and new adventures and includes entries starring favorite Avengers characters, Spider-Man and Guardians of the Galaxy superheroes. 

Eric Carle’s Book of Many Things
by Eric Carle

An early concept primer by the creator of The Very Hungry Caterpillar pairs spot art in Carle’s signature collage style with more than 200 first vocabulary words, organized under subjects ranging from numbers and shapes to colors and foods.

Baby Sees Colors!: A Totally Mesmirizing High-contrast Book for Babies
by Akio Kashiwara

Draws on decades of research and application in a high-contrast board book for newborns that uses strategic bold shapes and colors to promote receptive language skills and sound associations.

Becoming Shazam
by Alexandra West

Introduces Billy Batson, a street-wise Philadelphia teenager who can transform into the superhero Shazam.

Wings
by Cheryl B. Klein

A debut picture book by the author of The Magic Words and the Caldecott Honor-winning creator of Strega Nona combines simple rhymes and vibrant artwork in a loving tribute to the challenges and triumphs of a baby bird’s first flight.

Chicken Talk
by Patricia MacLachlan

The Newbery Medal-winning author of Sarah, Plain and Tall and the best-selling creator of the Lunch Lady graphic novels present the story of a clever flock of chickens who trigger chaos by scratching messages around the farm for their human caretakers.

Dactyl Hill Squad. Book one
by Daniel José Older

During the Civil War, orphan Magdalys Roca is just trying to survive, but when she receives a letter telling her that her brother Montez is wounded, she is determined to reach him and her ability to communicate telepathically with dinosaurs may help.

Avatar, The Last Airbender: Imbalance. Part one
by Faith Erin Hicks

An official graphic-novel continuation of Airbender finds Team Avatar returning to a hostile Earthen Fire Industries, where a request for their assistance reveals an escalating bender versus non-bender conflict.

What is the President’s Job?
by Allison Singer

A leveled reader introduction to the executive branch explains how American presidents spend their days at the White House, sign or veto bills, meet with other world leaders to promote peace and more.

When Walt Disney Rode a Pig
by Mark Weakland

Looks at the early life of Walt Disney and explains how his passions and experiences led him to become a famous animator and entrepreneur.

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Fort Scott Public Library
201 S. National Ave.
Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
620-223-2882
fortscott.mykansaslibrary.org/

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