Faye Cowan, 106, a resident of Mapleton, Kansas, passed away Sunday, March 9, 2025, at Guest Home Estates in Fort Scott. She was born September 3, 1918, in Franklin Township in Bourbon County, Kansas, one of ten children to Samuel Fredrick Brillhart and Lillie (Tyler) Brillhart. She married Floyd A. “Buck” Cowan December 14, 1941, in Mapleton, and he preceded her in death in 2003.
Faye and Buck had no children of their own, but there were alot of nieces and nephews to love. Faye loved to bake and was known in the community for her pies and angel food cake.
Faye is survived by her sister Betty Walker of Lakeland, Florida, and numerous nieces and nephews. In addition to her husband Floyd, Faye was also preceded in death by her parents, and eight of her siblings.
Pastor Connie Edgerton will officiate graveside services for Faye at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, March 22, 2025, at the Mapleton Cemetery under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.
Tonja Lynne Stockton, previously of Odessa, Missouri, died on Thursday, March 13, 2025, at Centerpoint Medical Center, Independence, Missouri. She was 56. She was born on August 12, 1968, in Northridge, California, and later adopted in 1974 by Ronald and Barbara Albright. She attended Fort Scott schools, graduating from Fort Scott High School in 1987.
While a student at K-State University, Tonja did research leading her to a unique gift: she traveled to California where she met her sister Lynette Graff and her extended family. While in California, she married Chris Stockton and together they had two children, Tyler Christopher Stockton and Nickolas Reid Stockton. They divorced and Tonja was later re-married to Jeffrey Richter. Tonja will be greatly missed by her family. A loving Mother, she tried to give Tyler, Nick, Jayme, Aaliyah, and Harli all she could.
The loved ones listed in this obituary are a who’s who of her family, whether related by adoption, birth, or marriage: Surviving are her parents, sister, sons, and granddaughters; her brothers Chip (Jennifer) Albright, Des Moines, IA, and Andy (Shanna) Albright, Frontenac, KS; her aunts Judith Augustine, Liz Simons (Gary), her uncle Richard Albright (Paulette); her nieces Katelyn Norman, Lillian Albright, Annabel Albright, Abigail Albright, Emerson Albright, Lakin Albright; her nephew Scott Grunow; her cousins Simone Wisler, Mac Wisler, Hilary Velandia, Charity Long, Mike Wisler, Chris Simons, Sara Kohlstaedt, Joe’ Fritter, and Dani Vonfeldt.
Tonja was predeceased by her husband Jeffrey, her cousin Tess Wisler Keane, her grandparents Richard and Betty Hixon, Frank and Lillian Albright, and Delores Albright.
Following cremation, a Celebration of Life service will be held at 11:00 a.m. on Friday, March 28, 2025, at the Konantz Cheney Funeral Home.
Memorial donations may be made in Tonja’s name to the Safehouse Crisis Center, Inc. and left in care of Konantz Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.
March 24, 2025
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday,
March 24, 2025. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott Community
College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
MISSION STATEMENT
Fort Scott Community College is an institution of higher learning with a long history of culture and
diversity that provides affordable academic, technical and occupational programs to meet student needs while
fostering a mutually supportive relationship between the college and its communities.
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
C. Auditor’s Report of 23-24 Audit, 4
D. FSCC Music Program Update, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on February 17, 2025 and
Special Meeting conducted on February 24, 2025, 6
C. Approval Treasurer’s Report, Financial Report, and Checks, 14
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
DISCUSSION ITEMS, 93
A. Harley Davidson Program Review
B. Board Member Graduation Attendance
C. Honorary Degree Recipient
D. Revised Strategic Plan 2025 Spring, 94
E. Financial Strategic Plan, 114
F. Trustee Emeritus
ACTION ITEMS, 125
A. Scheduled Policy Review and Approval, 125
B. Consideration of Civility Policy, 129
C. Consideration of Recruitment Code of Conduct Policy, 132
D. Consideration of Disposition of Surplus Property Policy, 136
E. Approval of CDL Interest Payment to Foundation, 138
F. Approval of Memorial Scholarship Payment to Foundation, 1401
CORRESPONDENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES, 141
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 150
ADJOURNMENT, 151
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• March 28, 2025 Aggie Day
• April 18, 2025 Campus Closed – Good Friday
• April 21, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 19, 2025 Board Meeting
• May 26, 2025 Campus Closed -Memorial Day
• June 16, 2025 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
Bryan Holt, Chair
Sara Sutton, Interim President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.2
ROLL CALL
_____ Ronda Bailey
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Chad McKinnis
_____ Doug Ropp3
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
C. AUDITOR’S REPORT OF 23-24 AUDIT
D. FSCC MUSIC PROGRAM UPDATE4
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on February 17, 2025 and
Special Meeting conducted on February 24, 2025
C. APPROVAL OF TREASURER’S REPORT AND CHECKS
Attached are the Treasurer’s Report, Financial Report, and Checks Written, Cleared, or Voided
D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
Additions
1) Steve Denton, Director of Facilities and Operations, effective March 31, 2025
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Consent Agenda items be approved as presented.
BOARD ACTION: MOTION _____ SECOND _____ VOTE _____
DISCUSSION:
VOTE: Bailey Bartelsmeyer Fewins
Holt McKinnis Ropp5
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting February 17, 2025
PRESENT: Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp
ALSO PRESENT: Sara Sutton – Interim President (via Zoom), Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff,
community members.
Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau
Agriculture Building.
The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: None
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None
FSCC BASKETBALL PROGRAM UPDATE: Head Coaches Matt Glover and Alexus Stirgus presented
highlights of FSCC’s men’s and women’s basketball programs. Both groups have completed a lot of community
support. The groups have also volunteered a number of hours in community service. Women’s had 3 with 4.0, 7
with over 3.5. Player of the week, one with alltime rebounder in a game, one that may be a 3pt record with 7 3s in a
game. Recruiting stage. Women have over 50 hours in community service. It’s helped with attendance at games.
Both are appreciative of support from community and institutional support. Sutton thanked both programs for all
they’ve committed to our community and FSCC.
CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote
to approve the consent agenda. Ropp inquired why the Garrison water bill was so high for December. Missy will
research and return an answer.
DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. PURCHASE ORDER BOARD APPROVAL: The purchasing policy allows the VP of Finance and
Operations to approve all purchases under $20,000. In the future checks written will be provided as
opposed to POs presented for approval.
B. TRUSTEE EMERITUS: Ronda found the only other Kansas Community College that has a Trustee
Emeritus is Cloud County. Board members who had served at least twelve years were eligible to receive it.
State Fair in Missouri also has this designation and requires twelve years of service to be eligible. If FSCC
receives, the board would need to determine how to put it in place and create a policy as well as determine
who would be eligible to receive from prior years. Ronda and John will discuss and return with potential
criteria. Ronda would like to identify if there are other prior board members eligible with two terms of
service.
C. CIVILITY POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed civility policy. Board members shall provide any
thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed policy to Interim President Sutton before the next meeting.
The policy will be presented for approval at the next regular board meeting.
D. RECRUITMENT CODE OF CONDUCT POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed recruitment code
of conduct policy. Board members shall provide any thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed policy to
Interim President Sutton before the next meeting. The policy will be presented for approval at the next
regular board meeting.6
E. DISPOSITION OF SURPLUS PROPERTY POLICY: The board reviewed a proposed disposition of
surplus property policy. Board members shall provide any thoughts or concerns regarding the proposed
policy to Interim President Sutton before the next meeting. The policy will be presented for approval at the
next regular board meeting.
F. REVIEW OF MISSION STATEMENT, CORE VALUES, AND VISION STATEMENT: The board
reviewed FSCC’s current Mission Statement, Core Values, and Vision Statement. There was consensus of
the board to retain the mission statement, core values, and vision statement.
ACTION ITEMS:
A. SCHEDULED POLICY REVIEW AND APPROVAL: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded
by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the policies presented in the Scheduled Policy
Review as follows:
Safety and Fire Hazard Responsibilities
Employee Benefits
Kansas Public Employees Retirement System
Supervision and Sponsorship of Student Activities
Activity Passes
Worker Compensation
Professional Organizations
Hazardous Waste Disposal
B. VECTOR TRAINING SOLUTION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and
carried by unanimous vote to approve the training solution as presented by Vector. The cost of the service
would be covered by the Student Success Initiative funds provided.
C. 2025-26 ACADEMIC CALENDAR AND 2024-25 ACADEMIC CALENDAR REVISION: A motion
was made by Bailey, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the 2025-26
academic calendar as presented and the revision to the 2024-25 academic calendar revisions as presented.
D. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING WITH BOURBON COUNTY REDI: A motion was made
by Fewins, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the Memorandum of
Understanding with Bourbon County REDI.
CORRESPONDENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES:
• ADMINISTRATION – The Board reviewed correspondence and heard updates from Academic Affairs,
Student Services, Foundation, Finance and Operations, and the Interim President.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Holt, seconded by Bartelsmeyer, and carried by unanimous vote
to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 7:50 pm for the purpose of discussing non-elected
personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to
follow. The board invited Sonia Gugnani, Juley McDaniel, and Sara Sutton to join.
OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Holt, and carried by unanimous vote to
return to open session at 8:11 pm.
The board discussed potential dates for a special meeting in the next two weeks. There was consensus to hold a
special meeting on February 25, 2025 at 10:30 am.7
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at
8:16 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote.
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting February 24, 2025 PRESENT:Ronda Bailey, John Bartelsmeyer, Jim Fewins, Bryan Holt, Chad McKinnis, and Doug Ropp ALSO PRESENT:Sara Sutton – Interim President, Juley McDaniel – Board Clerk, faculty, staff, community members. Chairman Holt called the meeting to order at 10:30 am in the meeting rooms of the Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Agriculture Building. The meeting was opened with the Pledge of Allegiance and Holt reading FSCC’s mission statement. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR:None COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None CONSENT AGENDA:A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to approve the consent agenda. A motion was made by Bailey, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to amend the agenda to hold the executive sessions prior to discussion items. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by McKinnis, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 10:34 am for the preliminary discussion of acquisition of real property with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sara Sutton and Vanessa Poyner to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 10:54 pm. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for thirty minutes beginning at 11:00 am to discuss personnel matters of nonelected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. The board invited Sara Sutton, Sonia Gugnani, and Juley McDaniel to join. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 11:30 pm. DISCUSSION ITEMS: A.STARS: •KBOR meeting update •Discuss future relationship with the Southeast Technical Academy for Rural Students (STARS)? •What does it look like for these programs for next year as far as location? (Paola/Fort Scott). •Discussion of employment with FSCC employees at the STARS location. •Drafting a response letter. Discussion Summary: The meeting with KBOR was last Thursday. Sara, Sonia, Rory, Missy, Ronda, and Bryan met with April White and KBOR. STARS had sent letter requesting release from FSCC. FSCC went through large amounts of documents, emails, etc. that goes back to 2018 to the creation of STARS.Provided a lot of evidence to KBOR pertaining to STARS. KBOR emphasized throughout the meeting they are not a mediator in instances like this. They want to stay out of local issues like this. FSCC is still not in the black or break-even point for the STARS location even with this being the 3rdyear of operation at STARS. FSCC is still in the red at that location at nearly $200,000, so still recouping the initial investment. That doesn’t count any of the grant funds utilized to purchase items for the location. Ronda indicated April White agreed with FSCC’s presentation of financials, as she had reviewed them prior to this meeting. This was the first interaction with KBOR regarding this subject. April White had reached out to set up the meeting after receiving the letter from STARS. April also indicated this isn’t the first time superintendents have tried to take over an area. April is out this week, but hoping for a response next week. KBOR received a different letter from STARS than FSCC did. Both STARS letters – to FSCC and to KBOR – were addressed. There has been discussion that there’s been no formal contract or MOU for the STARS location. FSCC has been trying to work through and facilitate an agreement and be a good partner. FSCC did not sign up for paying for a building and utilities in Pleasanton since we also have a location in Paola. STARS was generated because the local superintendents wanted something local for their students. FSCC agreed to pay for things related to curriculum and instruction but nothing else because we already had commitments on both sides of a Pleasanton location. The equipment at STARS is owned by a mix of FSCC and STARS. FSCC offered an MOU that would’ve equated to about $16,000 and would’ve covered the utilities. STARS proposed FSCC turning over all of the money and STARS returning 15% to FSCC. FSCC can’t turn over all the funding to non-educational group to make educational decisions for us. FSCC also added funds to pay half of the cost of a secretary for the facility. FSCC has tried to negotiate and be a good partner. Bryan pointed out the letter to FSCC doesn’t include anything FSCC has done wrong. The letter to KBOR indicated FSCC hasn’t been a good partner or negotiated despite multiple attempts, so the issues come out of sustainable funding. STARS says they’re a technical school, but they don’t grant the degrees or the certificates. Should FSCC look at another area to facilitate this instruction? Some Bourbon County students are driving and Miami County students driving to STARS. We need to consider how to best serve the students who are currently being served. We would love to come to agreement with STARS to facilitate instruction in that area. Four faculty members, a secretary, and a director at STARS plus benefits that we’re paying for. We have facilities in Paola and we need to expand in Bourbon County. Also have a current need for a construction trades location in Bourbon County that’s currently being taught at FSHS. The STARS letter is effective 6/30. HLC as the accreditor cares that students who start a program are offered an opportunity to complete the program in some way. Uniontown students currently driving to STARS. If we can’t come to an agreement, we need to consider next steps on how to serve those students so they have an opportunity to finish. Welding is offered in all 4 counties. That’s the type of thing that is saturating the market, and acting cannibalistic to our own credit hours. The Linn County News article gives the impression the partnership is over. KBOR meeting didn’t give that indication. STARS can choose to move on if they choose to, but they don’t have the authority to grant degrees and certificates. FSCC currently fulfills the duty of serving students in service area, so would not look at granting ability to another institution to operate there. STARS initially requested official response from FSCC within 5 days. FSCC sent a response saying the board needed to meet to discuss, but STARS continued to pursue addressing with KBOR. A response from KBOR will allow FSCC to provide an official response to STARS. It’s not feasible to have a tech center in each area.10
Cannot award degrees/certificates for things taught by faculty who aren’t ours. STARS does great things, but we’re also seeing reduction in enrollment at other locations. We have to have programmatic control, and consider the whole story (our other locations offering the same thing in the areas. When options are available for the board to consider, Sara will bring forward so things can progress. We will send a letter that indicates the Board has met and is awaiting KBOR’s response. B.CTEC: •Review of the CTEC non-renewal letter. •Discussion of employment with FSCC employees at the CTEC location. •Discuss the next steps of the transition process. •Drafting a response letter. Discussion Summary: Letter dated 2/17 of CTEC’s intent to not renew with FSCC as of 6/30. Board has a copy of that letter. When Sara came into current role, she was aware there was potential relationship patching to be done at the CTEC location. She started going to CTEC’s monthly board meetings. Dan Boley came into director of CTEC in July. Rory had acted as interim part of previous year. Bryan and Chad have engaged into some conversation with CTEC as well. It was brought to CTEC board meeting that they may be going with another educational entity in the summer. CTEC is not in FSCC’s service area. For FSCC to operate in Crawford County, PSU must grant permission each semester. John said it’s continued to get more difficult over time to deal with. It’s really up to PSU to determine if FSCC can operate in their service area. Ronda questioned what lack of program growth was.Both parties have lacked in strategic vision and conversation about what the goals and objectives are. FSCC did not receive a letter similar to what STARS sent. There have been multiple conversations, but no official document. At the last CTEC board meeting, CTEC said they wanted PSU to come in and KBOR would push things through for funding and program approval. SB155 funds (high school generated funding for CTE courses) is granted to community colleges and technical schools. CTEC would either need a community college or tech school come in or have legislation change to capture the funding. Lack of program growth – Did FSCC know the expectations for program growth? CTEC board has discussed programs they’d like, but FSCC would like to be part of those conversations. Bryan expressed disappointed because he knows Sara, Sonia, and Rory really leaned into resolving the issues created by history, but don’t think they had an opportunity to really make things work. Both CTEC11 and STARS have been doing great things. Clearly some problems FSCC has contributed to, but current admin team and new board didn’t get a fair opportunity to make it work. It takes time to turn around 3 years of problems. FSCC would like to make it work if we could. FSCC received a letter from CTEC proposing a letter of intent to work with STARS to facilitate curriculum and instruction. Jay told Ronda STARS would like to be like CTEC and work with CTEC in 2023. Frustrating to hear CTEC working with an entity within our service area to work with a group outside our service area. Discussions about CTEC and STARS pushing together because it’s a better sell to make it a regional shift. Communicating with employees on how the employees are affected. Trying to do best to make sure we can still facilitate employment, but if we can’t, what does that look like as an employee of FSCC. Biggest difference between CTEC and STARS situations is that CTEC is in our service area. Sara recommends writing response letter to CTEC on working with their board to properly unravel and do what’s in the best interest of our students and employees. Lot of people counting on it being handled civilly and professionally. Want to meet with their board. EXECUTIVE SESSION:A motion was made by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to adjourn to executive session for twenty minutes beginning at 12:25 pm to discuss personnel matters of nonelected personnel as it relates to discussion of identifiable information of non-elected personnel with no action expected to follow. OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Ropp, seconded by Bailey, and carried by unanimous vote to return to open session at 12:45 pm. ADJOURNMENT:There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at 12:45 pm by Bartelsmeyer, seconded by Ropp, and carried by unanimous vote. ChairmanClerk12
James Anthony “Jimmy” Houdashelt, age 60, resident of Fredonia, KS passed away Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Candle Rock Nursing Home in Fredonia. He was born July 16, 1964, in Girard, KS, the son of Jack and Shirly Simon Houdashelt. He graduated from Fort Scott High School with the class of 1982. Jimmy worked in construction for several years until his disability.
Survivors include his mother, Shirley Harding; a brother, Randy Houdashelt; and several nieces, nephews, aunts, and uncles.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents.
There was cremation. The family will receive friends from 1:00 until 3:00 PM Saturday, March 29th, at the Cheney Witt Carriage House, 301 S. Main St
Memorials are suggested to the Jimmy Houdashelt Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
SparkWheel needs YOU! Join us on Saturday, May 3rd, at Woodland Hills Golf Course for an exciting 4-person scramble tournament to support students in southeast Kansas, including those at Fort Scott Middle School and Fort Scott High School.
How can you help?
– Grab your team & hit the greens! Scan the QR code to register now and secure your spot.
– Not a golfer? You can still make an impact! Sponsorship opportunities are available at various levels—help us change lives while gaining great exposure for your business or organization.
Contact janelle.martin@sparkwheel.org to learn more and get involved today! Let’s make a difference—one round at a time!
Regi Casner is back to teaching fitness classes in Fort Scott once again, after a hiatus during the pandemic.
Her classes are at the Buck Run Community Center and also in Mound City, where she lives.
“I am teaching at Buck Run on Mondays and Fridays. I teach a 10:15 a.m. stretch class and a 12:15 p.m. Align/Pilates class.
“The stretch class moves slow and the Align/Pilates class flows through yoga poses with some strength work and Pilates blended in,” she said.
“The target audience age is 40-60s. I have a couple in the 30’s. I was hoping the noon class would be helpful for gals still working, and taking a lunch break.”
She will offer a free introductory class in April and early May.
About the Instructor
Casner “has taught fitness classes for a long time, completed a ton of training over the years, and wellness is my career and lifestyle,” she said.
“I first fell in love with group fitness when I took a step class in college(Pittsburg State University). It was love at the first step and downbeat.”
“The Fitness Nook was started because I believe small towns also deserve great fitness classes and the opportunity to sculpt, stretch and sweat together! “
“I love teaching group classes for many reasons. My top three are: 1. seeing people show up for themselves, and then realize than can do more than they think they can… and then doing it. And doing it again. It’s more than the mountain climber or plank. It is about showing up. 2. Sweating together is just downright awesome, especially when the music and company is good. 3. Helping people feel better in their bodies.”
“I’ve been married to Mat for almost 30 years, we have four grown adult children and one granddaughter (all of the above are my favorites). Besides the studio in Mound City, I work as the Wellness Coordinator at Johnson County Community College in Overland Park, and teach fitness in Fort Scott.”
“My own personal fav workouts are: a strong yoga class, and a Pilates/Barre class-with some decent weight work included—and a great playlist. “
“I really do enjoy burpees, I don’t like mountain climbers (even though we almost always do mountain climbers). I love jumping jacks and backbends, I don’t enjoy twists, esp. twists in chair pose.”
If interested in classes, please send her a message
“And if you were interested until you read the words: burpees, mountain climbers, and/or jumping jacks, come to stretch class. Those words and actions are never mentioned there.”
William (Bill) D. Hall, age 83, of Ft. Scott passed away on March 14, 2025, at Mercy Hospital in Pittsburg, KS. He was born on March 25, 1941, in Ft. Scott the son of Bill Hall and Margie Northrop.
Bill graduated from Ft. Scott High School, Ft. Scott Community College and Pittsburg State University. He also proudly served four years in the United States Navy.
His working years were that of a carpenter.
Bill gave about 20 seasons as a volunteer youth baseball coach. Players called this time, “Hall Ball.”
He liked the outdoors too, especially hunting and fishing.
In retirement, he enjoyed the activities of grandkids; spent countless hours at the community garden; and, participated with the VFW Post No. 1165 Honor Guard.
Survivors include two sons; Mark of Ft. Scott and Mike (Stephanie) of Olathe, KS. Also surviving are three grandchildren; Devin, Zane and Kinley. He was preceded in death by his wife, Sue, and his parents.
There was cremation. Rev. Chuck Russell will conduct memorial services at 10:30 am Wednesday, March 19th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Interment will take place at a later date in the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott.
The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 Tuesday evening, March 18th, at the funeral home.
Memorials are suggested to Youth Baseball and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.
When I awaken in the winter mornings, the first thing I do is make my way to the living room to see what’s happening inside the firebox. After eight sleepy hours I don’t usually see any flames, however, I can see an orange glow and that’s a good sign. I then open the fireplace door, grab the custom-designed poker and stir the embers. I know it won’t be hard to get a blazing fire going again. This morning chore is vital during the cold-weather season. If I don’t keep stoking the fire, it will eventually go out, the embers will turn to ashes, and the house will get cold (and so will I).
Every time I stir the embers, I think of the letter Apostle Paul wrote to his young protégé Timothy: “That is why I would remind you to stir up (rekindle the embers of, fan the flame of, and keep burning) the [gracious] gift of God, [the inner fire] that is in you by means of the laying on of my hands [with those of the elders at your ordination] (2 Timothy 1:6 AMP). Even though Paul is imprisoned, lonely, and sensing that his opportunities for preaching are about to be terminated, he wants to encourage and strengthen Timothy.
This loving and important letter to Timothy is for all believers that need to be reminded to fan the flame of discipleship to keep it burning hot. Should we wake up one morning and realize all we have left inside are a few embers, don’t throw in the towel and give up! Spring into action and stir yourself up in the Lord. Embers form when a fire has only partially burnt the wood and is still viable. If there are embers, then there’s a sure hope for a renewed fire which is necessary for living a holy and loving life.
There is a daily need in the hearts of all believers to keep the fire of commitment and loyalty to Christ blazing hot. Fire changes things. You can have hard kernels of popcorn and starve to death. But when you add fire to those seemingly worthless kernels, you end up with a tasty snack. We need to guard against complacency in our love, obedience, and worship to God. Each believer is responsible for fanning his/her own spiritual flame. No one else can do it for us. It’s our baby so we need to rock it!
Embers are small glowing hot lumps of wood in a dying fire. The key is the fact that the fire is not completely out. Being in the “process of dying” is not the same as dead. When we truly desire to live like Jesus, we’re assured that a rip-roaring fire can be revived from the embers. How can we tell if we’re on fire or not? We can use Jesus’ own words to evaluate our spiritual status: “And you shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, with all your mind, and with all your strength. This is the first commandment. And the second, like it, is this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these” (Mark 12:30 NKJV). In other words, poke yourself and see if love comes out.
God’s Word is like the believer’s custom-designed poker. Everyday we need to read and study God’s love letters and allow the Holy Spirit to poke around in our heart to see if we have a blazing fire or a hot lump. God wants us to be red-hot Christ followers, but He loves to work with smoldering hot lumps in order to make them burning hot and productive again.
The Key: I’d rather be a hot lump than a cold bump on a log.
The past year we have provided county-wide support and grant funding to Fort Scott area, Bronson, and Mapleton. We have been working with The City of Bronson and SEKRPC on a CDBG grant as well. This year we will continue that work and include Uniontown to the list. Last year, we were awarded several county wide multiyear grants and ALMOST $4 MILLION in regional grants that directly benefit the citizens of Fort Scott.
Our mission drives our work: to increase access to physical activity, healthy food, promote commercial tobacco cessation, enhance quality of life and encourage economic growth.
We continue to offer hyper local workforce development (in partnership with SEK KANSASWorks) once a week until we can secure additional funding, a full-time community health worker, and business technical assistance in house daily.
We are very excited to start a new small business grant program, the last grant program we had saw over $3 million in capital injection in the community. Details will come later. We will have the resources from CML Collective https://www.cmlcollective.com/ and Create Campaign https://www.createcampaignks.com/to implement programs and offer resources for our small business community. I have also been asked to speak at the Network Kansas 4th Annual Conference in Wichita in May.
HBCAT SPECIFIC UPDATES
Community Health Needs Assessment and Business Retention and Expansion Survey (BRES)
o *This surveys and assessments are important to inform HBCAT work, use of resources, and funding mechanisms.*
o We are working on our Community Health Needs Assessment and BRES. As the County Economic Development, I implemented the same survey in 2019. We called the City to see if they would like to participate with us on this year’s survey as a way to build relationships with local businesses.
o HBCAT will create a report and collaborate with the city to present findings to the commission. This is a service HBCAT is providing free of charge.
o We used the same survey and template as we used in 2019 (provided by Craig at the Dept of Commerce!) and we will be able to compare data. For instance, we can compare these 2019 business ratings:
o HBCAT is working with the Health in All Policy Subcommittee (City of Fort Scott, HBCAT, Bronson) on the Community Health Needs Assessment.
o If you are interested, this was part of the very first country-wide comprehensive strategic plan we did in 2019:
I still have the strategic plan if you are interested in seeing it
$250-$300K Blue Cross Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas
This grant provided HBCAT $100,000 in coordination dollars for two years and up to an additional $200,000 for the community.
Where the money is going:
Coordination Pathway – HBCAT
$100,000 over two years (HBCAT providing 50% match for coordinator salary)
Coordination and planning activities such as regular engagement with technical assistance providers, peer communities and in-person training sessions.
Community engagement and leadership strategies.
Evaluation reporting and data collection.
Package: Economic Stability: Social Entrepreneurship Supports
The Healthy Bourbon County Action Team and Rural Community Partners
o Business Development
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Jody Love/Justin Miles HBCAT
Mary Wyatt, City of Fort Scott
(No financial commitment expected from the City)
Jennifer Simhiser, LHEAT member
Package: Education Access and Quality: Farm to School
USD 234
o Community Green Farms at the Highschool
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Destry Brown, Superintendent
Jenny Layes, CHW
Package: Health Care Access and Quality:Health Related Social Needs
Girard Medical Center
o Fort Scott and Uniontown Rural Health Clinic
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: No
o Champions:
Ruth Duling, CEO Girard Medical Center
Jenny Layes, CHW
Package: Neighborhood and Built Environment:Multimodal Transportation and Recreational Trails
City of Mapleton
o Grant Range: $5,000-$25,000
Match Expected: Yes, project costs will likely exceed funding available through this package
o Expand on Mapleton’s recreational trails
Champions:
Gregg Post, Friends of Mapleton
Debbie Potter, Friends of Mapleton
Jody Love, HBCAT
Package: Social and Community Context:Incubator Kitchen and Food Hub
The Kitchen C+C Incubator Kitchen
o Grant Range: $5,000-$50,000
Match Expected: Yes, funding or in-kind donation
o Provide incubator space for cottage food makers
o Champions:
Angela Simon, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
Rachel French, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
Bailey Lyons, Co-Owner, The Kitchen C+C
OTHER GRANTS, HBCAT PROVIDING A MATCH:
$302,166 KDHE Subaward of G2G EPA Grant
o Regional
$165,000 Kansas Health Foundation/Kansas Food Action Network Grant
o County Wide
$45,800 KDOC Rural Community Champion Grant
o Bronson Specially, working on CDBG grant to match
$50,000 Youth Substance Abuse and Prevention Grant
o County Wide Schools
There are a couple smaller grants including:
o Health in All Policy Grant (County Wide)
o Community Health Needs Assessment Grant (County Wide)
o National Center on Healthy Housing Grant (Regional)
Rural Community Partners (RCP)
“A rising tide lifts all ships.” As a region we have now applied for and have been awarded $4million in grant funds in the last year. Rural Community Partners is our regional grassroots organization that blossomed out of the regional work with the University of Kansas Medical “COPE” program. It is housed within HBCAT, with Jody Love leading to drive the work and we serve as a fiscal agent. The RCP board includes Randy Robinson, Christina Pacheco, Darrell Pulliam, and Quentin Holmes. RCP has county coalitions in 4 counties, regional mentors, and the Small Business and Entrepreneurs Council (SBEC) which is made up of small businesses across the region.
Quick update on our work to date:
WE HAVE A NEW LOGO!! CHECK OUT OUR FACEBOOK!
Civic Engagement:
o -LHEATS are meeting regularly in 4 counties, each with their own budgets.
o -Bourbon and Crawford will finish out the COPE dollars in May and hopefully we will be able to implement our new EPA grant
o -Attending many conferences and events across the state and county, bringing along residents from each county.
Workforce Development:
o -We applied for an EPA Community Change Grant and was selected for $2.9million. We collaborated with 3 different workforce development agencies, 4 counties, and University of Kansas. We hope to start work in June.
Business Development:
o -The SBEC was working diligently on a regional survey. We found out that Commerce is working on the same effort. We are excited to see this happen and see it roll out and how we can build upon it.
o -Dare to Dream event was a success
o -The Small Business Mentorship Program has had clients and mentors across the region
o -HBCAT received a BCBS Pathways Grant that will financially support our small business and entrepreneurship efforts
Still in limbo is a $2.9million EPA grant due to uncertainty at the federal level. While our organization is not depending on the funding, our community and region can certainly benefit from it.
As the founding president and CEO, I am exceptionally proud of where we stand today—almost 10 years ago (next year!). I am forever grateful for the friendship and support of my dear friend, and then City of Fort Scott Economic Development Director, Heather Smith. Together, we co-wrote the first BCBS Pathways to Healthy Kansas Grant. While grants don’t necessarily create organizations, the Pathways grant was instrumental in helping us build the capacity to grow.
Special thanks to the HBCAT Board: Josh Jones (Chair), Kelly Perry, Kayla Boyd, Alex Barner, Lindsay Madison, Lucas Kelly and our team: Jenny Layes, Justin Miles, Aura Brillhart, Sherri Siebert, and Brett Dalton.
Our partners, funders and collaborators are ever growing and some of our current funders include: University of Kansas Medical, Kansas Department of Health and Environment, Centers for Disease Control, Environmental Protection Agency, National Center for Healthy Housing, Kansas Department of Commerce Office of Rural Prosperity, Kansas Department of Aging and Disability, Kansas Food Action Network, Kansas Health Foundation, Blue Cross and Blue Shield Pathways to Healthy Kansas, Sunflower Foundation
We will work to continue to grow our local, regional, state, and national networks. This intentional effort took much time, money, and travel but we have found the return on investment to be great. Among many accomplishments, we wanted to share a few highlights:
We have collaborated with Wichita State on a grant and resource hub for coalitions, be sure to check out the new website: https://elevatekansas.org/coalitions/
Jody has been nominated to the executive committee for the Governor’s Council on Wellness this year, and to serve as the Vice Chair next year
We have had one trip to Washington DC this year and have another planned in May
Looking forward to what 2025 brings!! (HINT: A new website for one!!) Please do not hesitate to reach out.
Governor Kelly Recognizes Melissa Etheridge, Others at Governor’s Arts Awards
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC) today announced the recipients of the 2025 Kansas Governor’s Arts Awards during a ceremony held at the Topeka Zoo and Conservation Center. The event was focused on celebrating remarkable individuals, organizations and communities for their exceptional contributions and leadership in advancing the arts across Kansas.
Grammy and Oscar Award-winning musician Melissa Etheridge was named this year’s recipient of the prestigious Governor’s Award.
“There are many talented Kansans involved in creative work across our state, and we know that art enhances their lives and the lives of those around them,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The people we recognized at the Governor’s Arts Awards tonight are using their talents and passions to strengthen communities all throughout Kansas and to enrich the culture of our great state.”
At the awards ceremony hosted by Wichita television personality Sierra Scott, 17 individuals and organizations were recognized for their work and efforts in elevating Kansas through arts and culture. Nominations for each award are thoroughly reviewed and chosen by a selection committee. The recipient for The Governor’s Award is chosen by Governor Kelly herself.
“Governor Kelly and I have had the privilege of learning about and witnessing the dedication of artists, organizations, advocates, communities and creative businesses located across every region of our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The Kansas arts and culture community plays a significant role in our growing economy by enriching the quality of place we call home. This impressive group of awardees is most deserving of the spotlight, and the state looks forward to see these inspiring leaders continue to enhance the cultural landscape of Kansas.”
The 2025 Governor’s Award recipient has been inspiring fans around the world for decades. Beyond Etheridge’s chart-topping records and stirring live performances, the Leavenworth native is known as a tireless advocate of Kansas who champions local causes through hands-on service.
“Across the nation and world, people are connecting with Etheridge’s music and can see how she truly embodies the Kansas values of hard work, self-reliance and kindness,” Kansas Arts Commission Director Curtis Young said. “She takes all the things that make Kansas great and shares them with the world — and she regularly brings it back home to benefit communities through her generosity and spirit.”
This year’s award categories and recipients are:
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Media Arts: Kiki Bush, Gypsum
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Music: Bob McWilliams, Lawrence
Excellence in Artistic Achievement in Visual Arts: Shin-hee Chin, McPherson
Arts Advocacy: Brenda Meder, Hays
Arts Patron of the Year: Paul Dorrell, Roeland Park
Excellence in Arts Education: Tyler Dallis, Pratt
Excellence in the Arts in Business: The Artificers, Fort Scott
Emerging Arts Leader of the Year: Lacey Connell, Overland Park
Emerging Arts Organization of the Year: LV Arts, Leavenworth
Rural Arts Community of the Year: Clay Center
Urban Arts Community of the Year: NOTO Arts & Entertainment District, Topeka
Arts Leader of the Year: Katy Guthrie, Garden City
Arts Organization of the Year: Theatre in the Park, Overland Park
Arts Legacy Award: Constance “Connie” Bonfy, Wichita
Arts Legacy Award: Cecil Riney, Wichita
Arts Legacy Award: NedRa Bonds, Kansas City
The Governor’s Award: Melissa Etheridge, Leavenworth
To learn more about the Kansas Arts Commission, their programs or art resources, visit 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 the Kansas Arts Commission (KAC):
The Kansas Arts Commission stewards the state’s investment in the arts by empowering creativity, fostering innovation, and strengthening the economy to enhance the vitality of every Kansas community. The Kansas Arts Commission is a division of the Kansas Department of Commerce. To learn more about KAC, click here or contact Ben Stanton at [email protected] or (785) 213-5959.
