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Feb. 25: Educational Program to Address Theileria in Cattle

Educational Program to Address Theileria in Cattle
FORT SCOTT, Kan. — Area cattle producers are invited to attend an educational program focused on Theileria in cattle: understanding risk, spread, and management on Wednesday, February 25, at 5:30 p.m. The program will be held at the Fort Scott Livestock Market, 2131 Maple Rd., Fort Scott.
Theileria is an emerging concern for cattle producers in Kansas, and the meeting will provide practical, research-based information to help producers understand the disease and reduce risk in their operations.
Presenters include Dr. Cassandra Olds, K-State veterinary entomologist, and Hunter Nickell, Southwind Extension agent. Topics will include an overview of Theileria in cattle, transmission pathways, entomology considerations, arthropod control strategies, and management decisions that reduce disease risk while minimizing insecticide resistance. There will also be a short discussion on reporting losses to the Farm Service Agency (FSA) and some programs they offer for assistance.
Light snacks and refreshments will be provided.
There is no cost to attend, but reservations are encouraged. For questions or to reserve a spot, call 620-365-2242 or email [email protected].
Kansas State University is an equal opportunity provider and employer.
When Love Bombing Doesn’t Last by Patty LaRoche

Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)
“For better or worse…” The beaming bride and groom mimic the pastor’s words, vowing that no matter what happens, they are in this marriage thing until they drop. But what happens when, to their surprise, the spouse turns out not to be the kind, gentle, admiring soul he/she pretends to be? What happens when that person is a narcissist?
Mayo Clinic defines the disease well: “a mental condition in which people have an inflated sense of their own importance, a deep need for excessive attention and admiration, troubled relationships, and a lack of empathy for others. But behind this mask of extreme confidence lies a fragile self-esteem that’s vulnerable to the slightest criticism.”
Sounds like the “worse” part of the marital contract to me.
Mayo continues. “People with a narcissistic personality disorder may be generally unhappy and disappointed when they’re not given the special favors they believe they deserve.” Most narcissists wear one personality in public, another in private.
They are jealous, master manipulators. The “love-bombing” they demonstrated when dating looks nothing like the actual mental illness they now demonstrate.
The Zoom Bible study I am in is reading Dr. Henry Cloud’s book, Why I Believe. The renowned psychologist writes about a flight he was on in which he sat next to a young woman who asked what he did for a living. When he told her, she shared the saga of her umpteenth breakup with her boyfriend, saying that his anger issues came between them as he repeatedly controlled/manipulated her when she behaved in a way he disapproved.
She explained. “I can calm him down by agreeing with him, but I can’t always just give in. I feel like I am losing myself. So, we break up and then I go back.” Cloud then replied, “There is an old saying: ‘If you rescue an angry man, you will only have to do it again.’” She asked where he heard that quote. “The Bible,” he answered. “Proverbs 19:19. You should read it sometime. There is good stuff in there.”
“I never knew that was in the Bible!” she said.
Cloud replied, “Yeah,” I know, I didn’t either, until I started to really read it.” The author addresses narcissism in his book and shares that he finds the most effective psychology rooted in Scripture. “Boundaries and limits to destructive behavior are taught throughout the Bible, and regaining control for oneself is a chief tenet.”
I’ve been giving a lot of thought to this topic, narcissism, and I wonder if we all don’t have a little of this disease in us. We sort of like things to go our way, don’t we? At least I do, like when instead of marriage being a walk in the park, it’s more like a 100-mile marathon in 100-degree weather in the hills of Arkansas. Instead of looking at our disagreement from Dave’s perspective, my vision is blinded by my wants, my desires.
I am grateful that for almost 53 years, we have weathered those marathons and have learned to work to seek good in each other. For Dave, that’s easy. (Riiiight!)
So, what’s a victim to do? Pray. A lot. Especially before they take those vows.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Feb. 13
FSCC Launches Men’s Soccer Program, Names Luis Pulido Head Coach

Fort Scott Community College has officially launched its new men’s soccer program and announced the hiring of Luis Pulido as the team’s inaugural head coach, marking a significant step in the college’s continued athletic growth.
Pulido brings a high-expectation, accountability-driven coaching philosophy to Fort Scott, emphasizing structure, discipline and personal responsibility both on and off the field. His approach centers on creating clear systems that allow student-athletes to thrive while holding everyone, including himself, to demanding standards.
“My philosophy is simple: I create an environment with no excuses,” Pulido said. “If I lay a strong foundation and put the right systems in place for success, then it’s up to the players to put in the work from there.”
In the program’s first season, Pulido said his goal is to make Fort Scott a regional and national contender from day one, while establishing championship-level habits that extend beyond the scoreboard.
“Success isn’t only measured by wins and losses,” Pulido said. “It’s about behaving like champions and striving for excellence in everything you do.”
Player development under Pulido will extend beyond tactics and training, with a strong emphasis on academic success, personal growth and self-sufficiency. A former educator, Pulido prioritizes classroom performance and life skills as essential components of student-athlete development.
“Academic success is our highest priority,” Pulido said. “Soccer is a privilege. You earn the opportunity to play on the field by fulfilling your academic responsibilities first.”
Athletic Director Dave Wiemers said the launch of soccer and the hiring of Pulido align with FSCC’s mission to build competitive programs rooted in accountability and student success.
“We are excited to have Luis and his family join our great group of coaches,” Wiemers said. “He has been a sitting head coach, has had success, and will fit in perfectly with our ideas moving forward.”
Community engagement will be a cornerstone of the program, with players encouraged to build strong relationships on campus and throughout the Fort Scott area through service, outreach and involvement.
“The opportunity to build this program from the ground up is incredibly exciting,” Pulido said. “I want to create something the school and community can truly be proud of.”
Additional details regarding competition schedules and recruiting opportunities for FSCC men’s soccer will be announced at a later date.
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FSCC Names Gemini Pulido Head Coach of Women’s Soccer Program

Fort Scott Community College has announced the hiring of Gemini Pulido as head coach of its women’s soccer program, bringing a student-centered, development-focused approach to one of the college’s growing athletic offerings.
Pulido said her coaching philosophy extends well beyond performance on the field, with an emphasis on confidence, resilience, accountability and long-term success for student-athletes.
“Coaching should support the overall growth of the student-athlete, not just what happens during matches,” Pulido said. “My goal is to help players build confidence and discipline while preparing them for success in the classroom, in soccer and in life.”
In her first season, Pulido said her priorities include establishing a strong team culture, building trust, and creating alignment around how the program trains, competes and represents Fort Scott Community College.
“Success goes far beyond wins and losses,” Pulido said. “It looks like consistent effort, accountability, academic progress and athletes leaving the program prepared for the next level.”
Pulido’s approach to player development is intentional and individualized, focusing on technical and tactical growth alongside leadership development, communication skills and personal responsibility. She said meeting athletes where they are and providing structure and honest feedback are central to her coaching style.
Academics will remain a non-negotiable priority within the program, with clear expectations for class attendance, communication with instructors and academic accountability.
“Success in the classroom directly impacts opportunities on and off the field,” Pulido said.
Athletic Director Dave Wiemers said Pulido’s hiring reflects FSCC’s commitment to developing women’s athletic programs that emphasize both competitive excellence and student success.
“Gemini brings a thoughtful, intentional approach to coaching that aligns perfectly with our mission,” Wiemers said. “She understands the importance of building culture, setting clear standards and developing young women into confident leaders. We’re excited about the direction she will take our women’s soccer program.”
Community engagement will also play a key role in the program’s growth, with Pulido planning to build strong relationships across campus and throughout the Fort Scott community through involvement and service.
“The opportunity to build something meaningful is what excites me most,” Pulido said. “Shaping culture, mentoring young women and helping them grow as student-athletes and individuals is incredibly rewarding.”
Additional information regarding the women’s soccer program, including competition schedules and recruiting opportunities, will be announced at a later date.
FSCC Trustees Meeting Agenda for Feb. 16
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES REGULAR MEETING
ELLIS FINE ARTS BUILDING
FEBRUARY 16, 2026 – 5:30 P.M.
AGENDA SUMMARY WITH COMMENTARY
1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR DOUG ROPP
1.1 Roll Call of Trustees by the Clerk
___Bailey___Brown___Cosens___Hoyt___McKinnis___Ropp
2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION
3.0 APPROVAL OF OFFICIAL AGENDA (ACTION)
4.0 APPROVAL OF CONSENT AGENDA (ACTION)
4.1 Minutes
4.2 Financials – Cash Flow Report
4.3 Check Register – $483,321.50
4.4 Payroll – January 15, 2026 – $660,869.98
4.5 Contract Ratification
5.0 COMMUNITY, EMPLOYEE, AND STUDENT RECOGNITION (INFORMATION)
- CDL Program Review
- Recognition: New Coaches
6.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES (INFORMATION)
6.1 Academics
- Vice President of Academic Affairs – Dr. Larry Guerrero
6.2 Advancement
- Dean of Advancement – Lindsay Hill
- Gordon Parks Museum
6.3 Athletics
- Athletic Director – Dave Wiemers
6.4 Finance
- CFO – Vice President of Finance & Operations – Gina Shelton
- Business Office Update
- Maintenance Update
6.5 Student Services
- Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner
6.6 Administrative Committees
6.7 Presidential Update
- President Dr. Jack Welch
7.0 OLD BUSINESS
7.1 Scholarship Proposals 2026-2027 (ACTION)
7.2 State of the College address will be:
- May 21st at 12 pm in the Ellis Fine Arts building (INFORMATION)
7.3 Board Selection of Honorary Associate Degree (ACTION)
8.0 NEW BUSINESS
8.1 Acceptance of Deed of Land for FRAME Grant (ACTION)
8.2 RFP – FRAME Grant – Contractor RFP (INFORMATION)
9.0 PUBLIC FORUM
FSCC Trustee Board Special Meeting: Feb. 13 at Noon
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
BOARD OF TRUSTEES SPECIAL MEETING – BOARD WORKSHOP
ELLIS FINE ARTS BUILDING
FEBRUARY 13, 2026 – 12:00 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA
1.0 CALL MEETING TO ORDER – CHAIR DOUG ROPP
1.1 Roll Call of Trustees by the Clerk
___Bailey___Brown___Cosens___Hoyt___McKinnis___Ropp
2.0 FLAG SALUTE & INVOCATION
3.0 LEADERSHIP REPORTS & UPDATES (INFORMATION)
3.1 Academics
- Vice President of Academic Affairs – Dr. Larry Guerrero
3.2 Advancement
- Dean of Advancement – Lindsay Hill
- Gordon Parks Museum Update
3.3 Athletics
- Athletic Director – Dave Wiemers
- Athletic Update
3.4 Finance
- CFO – Vice President of Finance & Operations – Gina Shelton
3.5 Student Services
- Vice President of Student Affairs – Vanessa Poyner
3.6 Administrative Committees
3.7 Presidential Update
- President Dr. Jack Welch
4.0 REVIEW FEBRUARY 16, 2026, AGENDA ITEMS (INFORMATION)
4.1 CONSENT AGENDA
- Minutes
- Financials – Cash Flow Report
- Check Register – $483,321.50
- Payroll – January 15, 2026 – $660,869.98
- Contract Ratification
4.2 COMMUNITY, EMPLOYEE, AND STUDENT RECOGNITION REVIEW
- CDL Program Review
- Recognition of New Coaches
4.3 OLD BUSINESS
- Scholarship Proposals 2026-2027
- State of the College address will be:
- May 21st at 12 pm in the Ellis Fine Arts building
- Board Selection of Honorary Associate Degree
4.4 NEW BUSINESS
- Acceptance of Deed of Land for FRAME Grant
- FRAME Grant – Contractor RFP Approval
4.5 PUBLIC FORUM
4.6 OTHER BUSINESS – EMPLOYMENT OF NON-ELECTED PERSONNEL MATTERS
4.7 BOARD COMMENTS
5.0 ENTER EXECUTIVE SESSION – PERSONNEL MATTERS (ACTION)
6.0 EXIT EXECUTIVE SESSION – RETURN TO OPEN SESSION (INFORMATION)
7.0 BOARD MEMBER TRAINING – GOAL SETTING (INFORMATION)
8.0 ACCREDITATION COMMITTEE (INFORMATION)
9.0 ADJOURN (INFORMATION
Startups and Entrepreneurs Accelerate Kansas Innovations: March 10 Event
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USD 234 Minutes of the Feb. 11 Special Meeting
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
NEWS RELEASE
Wednesday, February 11, 2026
Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Wednesday, February 11, 2026, for a special meeting at 424 S Main.
President David Stewart opened the meeting.
The board approved the official agenda.
The board approved the purchase of 850 State Street.
President David Stewart adjourned the meeting.
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports Feb. 12
Fly the Flag Subscriptions for 2026 Begin

Friends Now Accepting New and Renewed Subscriptions for U.S. Flags
This year marks the 250th anniversary of the founding of our country. What better way to celebrate than to fly the Stars and Stripes in 2026? The Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site Inc. makes it easy.
The Friends provide homeowners and businesses, within the city limits of Fort Scott, the opportunity to display “Old Glory” on five different flag holidays during 2026 without the hassle of purchasing, placing, and storing a flag and pole. No need to even remember the holiday!
For $40 annually, the Friends will install a 3’x5′ flag on a 12 foot staff at your home or business on each of the following Flag Holidays :
Memorial Day, May 25th
Flag Day, June 14th
Independence Day, July 4th
Labor Day, September 17th
Veteran’s Day, November 11th
Applications for new subscriptions can be obtained at the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce or can be requested by phone, text, or email. Call 417-684-2484 or email [email protected]. Renewal notices are being mailed/e-mailed to 2025 subscribers. Both new agreements and renewals must be returned by March 31, 2026.
All proceeds support programs at Fort Scott National Historic Site including the Naturalization Ceremony, Candlelight Tour, and Veterans Challenge coins among other special programs.
Show your patriotism and help our local National Park by displaying the nation’s symbol!
The Fly the Flag project is a yearly project sponsored by the Friends of Fort Scott National Historic Site. Once signed up, you will receive the option to renew annually.
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