Elaine Marie Guss, 65, of Fort Scott, died at 10:56 p.m. on Wednesday, January 1, 2025 at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Mo. Elaine was born on June 16, 1959 at Santa Monica, Calif., to Vernon and Katherine Guss. She moved to Fort Scott when she was eight years old and lived the rest of her life in Bourbon County. She graduated from Fort Scott High School in 1978.
From her union with Michael Harper, Elaine had four wonderful children: Candy Turner, Michael Harper, Dustin Harper and Scott Harper all of Fort Scott.
Elaine regularly attended Grace Baptist Church, and she enjoyed spending time with her grandkids.
She wasn’t afraid to carry on a conversation with anyone, and she never knew a stranger. She looked forward to trips to Branson with her mother. She also enjoyed cooking and baking for her family.
Elaine was preceded in death by her parents, Vernon and Katherine Guss and a sister, Maryann Martin. She is survived by her children, Candy, Michael (Amy), Dustin (Alison) and Scott; three brothers, Stuart (Carla) Guss, Bruce Guss and Roy Guss; seven grandkids, Courtney Harper, Lily Harper, Landon Turner, London Turner, Charlee Harper, Ella Harper and Memphis Harper; and numerous nieces and nephews.
Rev. Paul Rooks will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Wednesday, January 8th at the Grace Baptist Tabernacle.
Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery.
The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Tuesday at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Memorials are suggested to the Elaine Guss Memorial Fuind 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.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Celebration events will be held in Fort Scott.
All of the events will take place at Ellis Fine Arts Center and are open and free for the entire community to attend.
The events will start on Wednesday, January 15th at the Danny and Willa Ellis Family Fine Arts Center with a free (Lunch and Learn) event that will be held at 12:00p.m., featuring Fort Scott Community College Students and Pittsburg State University Students for a Tribute Reading of the speech “I have a Dream” and quotes by Dr. King.
Soup, dessert, birthday cake and drinks will also be provided by Great Western Dining Services.
The celebration will wrap up on Monday, January 20th, with a film showing Martin, (Lunch and Learn) event and Canned and Non-perishable Food Drive.
Food items will be collected at the museum from 9:00am – till 2:00p.m. The film Martin, a ballet film in tribute of Martin Luther King, directed by Gordon Parks will be shown at 10:30a.m.
The (Lunch and Learn) Speaker Presentation Event “The Power of Imagery and Civil Rights Experience” by Ann Dean will be held at 12:00p.m. – till 1:00p.m. Lunch will be provided by Dunk’s BBQ. Drinks and desserts will be provided by Great Western Dining Services.
A full list of film showings and events can be found at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events. For more information call the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700 ext. 5850.
About Humanities Kansas
Humanities Kansas is an independent nonprofit spearheading a movement of ideas to empower the people of Kansas to strengthen their communities and our democracy. Since 1972, our pioneering programming, grants, and partnerships have documented and shared stories to spark conversations and generate insights. Together with our partners and supporters, we inspire all Kansans to draw on history, literature, ethics, and culture to enrich their lives and serve the communities and state we all proudly call home. Visit humanitieskansas.org.
In mid-December, a Pittsburg company was cited in northeast Bourbon County for not complying with Kansas laws on solid waste disposal. In 2024, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment issued five stream advisories in the State of Kansas.
“Radell Underground, Inc. was issued a Notice of Non-Compliance by KDHE, citing violation of K.S.A. 65-3409(a)(1) Disposal of solid waste by open dumping, on Dec. 13, for dumping the bore tailings and bore gel compound (containing bentonite and silica) as a slurry into the waterways shown on the attached map,” according to Jill Bronaugh, KDHE Communications Director in an email.
Radell bore dumping site in northeast Bourbon County. Submitted map.
“We do telecommunication (fiber optic cable) for CrawKan (Telephone Cooperative). One of our guys dumped mud where he wasn’t supposed to,” said Anthony McNeely a manager with Radell.
Organically modified bentonites effectively reduce the consumption of drilling fluids, conserve resources, and lessen environmental effects, according to https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10707903/
Industrial sand and gravel, often called “silica,” “silica sand,” and “quartz sand,” include sands and gravels with high silicon dioxide (SiO2) content. These sands are used in glassmaking; for foundry, abrasive, and hydraulic fracturing (frac) applications; and for many other industrial uses, according to https://www.usgs.gov/centers/national-minerals-information-center/silica-statistics-and-information
Radell Underground Inc. is a utility contractor that specializes in horizontal directional drilling, also known as boring. Their clients include AT&T, Evergy, CrawKan, and many more, according to their website.
“We met with Radell representatives to discuss the clean-up of the dumping sites and established a date of Jan. 10, to obtain the proper permits and approvals from the Kansas Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who have jurisdiction over waterways. The clean-up is required to be completed by Jan. 20; at which time, the stream advisory will be rescinded,” Bronaugh said.
Stream Advisory Issued for an Unnamed Tributary North of Fort Scott, Kansas
“Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a stream advisory for the unnamed tributary near 185th Street and Quail Road North of Fort Scott, Kansas.
The stream advisory is a result of multiple disposal sites from a boring operation that contained silica, bentonite, and a gel polymer near 185th Street and Quail Road North of Fort Scott, Kansas.
The advisory has been issued because of potential sediment and unknown contaminants being present in the unnamed tributary. If you live or have activities near this area, do not enter the stream or allow children or pets to enter the stream.
KDHE will rescind the advisory once secondary (wading) contact has been deemed safe.”
Patty LaRoche. 2023. Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection www.alittlefaithlift.com AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)
This year will be different. This year will be the year I keep my New Year’s resolutions. Don’t look at me like that. I will. After all, it can’t be that hard to set aside an hour each day for exercise, to stop eating when I am full and to have alone time with Jesus each day. Three simple things, the trifecta for a healthy life.
If I were to look back at the last 10 years of my January 1st articles, I would see the same thing written, year after year. I’m going to exercise more, eat less and pray often. I refuse to preview those stories because to see that I have failed those goals on an annual basis would be depressing, and who wants to start 2025 being depressed?
The good news is I have figured out why it is so difficult to keep these resolutions. It’s the way I’m wired. Yes indeedy, if in doubt, blame it on genetics. After all, that’s not the only area in which I struggle to do what I know I need to do. Let me explain.
Before I became a Christian at the age of 27, I tried really, really hard to be a good girl. I tried harder at that than I do my New Year’s resolutions. I wanted to please people, but I also wanted to please the angels, the saints, Jesus and God. It was a lofty goal, and I failed more than I succeeded. When I heard the message that there is nothing anyone can do in his/her own power to “earn” God’s favor, I realized why those times I took my angel to the playground to swing “her” was not the spiritual experience I wanted it to be. (No doubt, referring to them with feminine names probably did not help).
Ephesians 2:8 reminds us that we are saved by God’s grace, not because we have performed to His expectations. God’s gift to us is His son, Jesus Christ, who came to save us from our sins. And just like my daily reminder to fulfill my New Years’ Eve goals, I daily have to remind myself that my good works do not earn me any grace points. So, why do I still try? (This is where that genetics’ thing falls apart.)
God’s grace-covering, of course, doesn’t mean that I have no responsibility in doing the right thing and serving others. James 2:26 tells me so. “Faith without works is dead.” If you read the New Testament, you will see dozens of scriptures that tell us works are not the cause of salvation; works are the evidence of salvation. Legitimate faith in Christ always results in good works. Faith without works reveals a heart that has not been transformed by God, just like me saying that I am all about physical fitness without watching what I eat and spending time working out shows I am not serious about my goal to get in shape.
I find it comforting that God covers me with His grace. There is nothing I can do to help myself in that area, and that assurance makes it easier for me to want to spend time in His presence, the third part of my New Year’s goal.
If it were just that easy with the eating and exercising part.
Delegates are being sought for the Kansas Silvered Haired Legislature.
The Kansas Silver Haired Legislature is a unicameral (one-chambered) legislature composed of 125 representatives across the state. SHL delegates are 60 years or older and are elected from their county of residence.
SEK Area Agency on Aging is seeking candidates to serve a two-year term representing their county. SEKAAA covers a 9-county area: Allen, Bourbon, Cherokee, Crawford, Labette, Montgomery, Neosho, Wilson and Woodson.
The legislature provides an educational experience in the political process and provides an opportunity to identify priority concerns of Kansas’ older adults.
The SHL develops bills and resolutions which are presented to the Kansas Legislature and the governor as recommendations for state policy.
SHLs were created by Congress in 1969 when each state was encouraged to create a body of older adults who would identify issues important to older adults 60+ and educate their state legislatures about those issues.
The Kansas Silver-Haired Legislature was created by a 1982 Senate resolution. The website for Kansas Silver-Haired Legislature is www.Kansas-shl.org
“It is important that the voice of older Kansans is heard,” says Kathy Brennon, SEKAAA Executive Director, “there are constant changes that have an impact on individuals 60 and older that can be overlooked. It is important to have this group that is solely focused on issues that impact older Kansans.”
If anyone is interested in being a delegate, they can request an application packet by emailing [email protected] or calling 620-431-2980. Applications must be received by February 3, 2025. If more than one person is interested in a position an election will be held on February 21, 2025. The term is for two years. March 1, 2025 to February 28, 2027.
Governor Kelly Announces
Food Sales Tax Completely Eliminated
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly on Thursday announced that in 2025, Kansans are projected to save $156 million due to the reduction in the state sales tax rate from 2% to zero and the “Axe the Food Tax” legislation she signed in 2022. According to projections from the Kansas Department of Revenue, reducing the state sales tax on groceries from 2% to zero will save shoppers $13 million per month this year.
“The complete elimination of the state sales tax on food is a win for Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By axing the food tax once and for all, the average family of four will save $500 per year on groceries. I’m proud that we’ve put more money back into Kansans’ pockets thanks to this commonsense legislation.”
After working tirelessly to put the state on solid financial footing, in 2021 Governor Kelly called on the Kansas Legislature to eliminate the state sales tax on groceries as soon as possible. The Legislature ultimately passed legislation that gradually reduced the state sales tax on groceries over three years.
In 2023, the state sales tax rate on groceries went down from 6.5% to 4%, saving consumers $187.7 million per year. At the end of 2024, it was projected that shoppers saved nearly $570 million due to the reductions in the state sales tax rate on food and food ingredients during the two years the reduction has been in effect.
The state sales tax reduction applies to food, food ingredients, and certain prepared foods. When looking at a receipt, shoppers will see two tax rates, one for qualifying purchases and one for all other items.
The total elimination of the state sales tax on qualifying items went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends December 2024 with total tax collections at $1.1 billion. That is $66.7 million, or 6.3%, above the estimate. Total tax collections are up 8.1% from December 2023.
“As I’ve highlighted before, even though our state’s revenues are healthy, we must practice fiscal responsibility,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “That is how we will continue to maintain economic growth and preserve our fiscal stability.”
Individual income tax collections were $451.5 million, $31.5 million or 7.5% above the estimate, and up 13.7% from December 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $275.4 million, $45.4 million or 19.7% above the estimate, and up 16.8% from December 2023.
Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $285.4 million, $13.6 million or 4.5% below the estimate, and down $17.0 million or 5.6% from December 2023.
Click here to view the December 2024 revenue numbers.
TOPEKA – While the risk to the general public still remains very low, the Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is reminding Kansans to practice caution around wild birds and backyard poultry amid increasing reports of highly pathogenic avian influenza (HPAI) A (H5N1) virus both nationally and within Kansas.
HPAI is primarily an infection of wild birds; however, in the ongoing outbreak beginning in early 2022, numerous animal species have been infected including domestic poultry, dairy cattle, wild carnivores like skunks and raccoons, and domestic cats. The virus is spread by migratory waterfowl, primarily ducks and geese.
“The public health risk of HPAI remains low,” KDHE Chief Medical Officer Dr. Dereck Totten said. “While there has been no person-to-person spread, KDHE is monitoring the situation carefully. We are working with people who have had flocks test positive and encourage the public to avoid contact with sick birds.”
Fall migration of wild birds increased in November and December, resulting in additional exposure to HPAI and thus an increase in cases in domestic poultry in Kansas. Since Dec. 3, the Kansas Department of Agriculture (KDA) has identified HPAI in six non-commercial backyard flocks and two commercial flocks.
Since this virus can infect humans who come in close contact with sick or dead birds and other infected animals, KDHE, in coordination with local health departments, monitors all exposed individuals for symptoms of influenza-like illness. While no human cases have been identified in Kansas, 66 cases of HPAI have been confirmed in humans in the United States in 2024. Those cases are nearly all from exposure to infected poultry or dairy cows, and no known human-to-human spread has occurred.
Current information regarding HPAI in animals in Kansas can be found at KDA Avian Influenza.
Most of the infections in humans the U.S. have been mild and primarily present as red, itchy eyes, but there is the potential for more severe illness, particularly in immunocompromised individuals. For more information on keeping yourself healthy while handling poultry, visit CDC Avian Influenza.
Commission approves map making five commissioner districts of Bourbon County.
The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.
The meeting opened with a full audience.
Dustin Lewis spoke to the commission regarding a potential housing unit Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). He expressed a desire to build a 20-30 2000 sq. ft. single home housing development. He said they were looking for right location to bring it into the area in the next year. He was not asking county for anything at this time.
Commissioner Harris said he was very excited about this opportunity and asked if there was anything the county to do to help. Nothing needed at this time.
A Legacy property MOU was also discussed. Commissioner Clifton Beth said, “We need development.”
The property under discussion is located near the hospital, and has a call back on it and the county must release it in order for Legacy to develop said property. Commissioners Beth and Harris said that Legacy has fulfilled it’s contract in light of the call back on the lots near the hospital. Wisenhunt said he’s never seen the contract. Beth read out some information from the MOU stating, “Lots one and two are transferred to KRI, already. Lot five would be transferred back to Bourbon County for EMS services.” Legacy will provide the quit claim deed to the county for filing before the year end. Legacy paid for the survey for lot 5.
Beth said, “I would like to see the land developed…Maybe this would be one that they could do.”
A citizen requested that the commission to wait to release the call backs on the 11 acres directly south of the hospital until Freeman opens the hospital in June to be sure Legacy has fulfilled their contract with the county. Beth expressed concern over losing the housing project to Crawford County.
Wisenhunt expressed his belief that it will take time to create the development, anyway and waiting until June isn’t a big deal.
Harris suggested tabling it for a week. Wisenhunt offered to do some research.
Kaety Bowers spoke to the commission as Republican County Chair, thanking Harris and Beth for their service and wishing Wisenhunt a successful completion of his term.
She then spoke “as a concerned citizen of Bourbon County.” She expressed desire to start the year off in a positive manner, then asked the commission to alleviate concerns she’s heard for a number of citizens by signing an affidavit, which she offered to read. Harris immediately asked for a week to review it. Bowers said, “perfect.” Upon looking over the document, Harris said, “I take this as an insult.”
“I apologize. It’s not meant that way,” she replied, reiterating that her intention is to be positive and not to tarnish anyone’s reputation. Harris expressed that any of his constituents could talk to him directly if they have questions. He asked where the Democrat Party chair was. Bowers said she had not been able to get a hold of him or her.
Beth agreed with Harris and asked why no one came to him directly with questions.
Harris said his reputation was tarnished when people lied about him in the newspaper and on Facebook.
Beth laughed at the idea that Facebook would be the place for him to answer questions.
Wisenhunt weighed in, addressing Beth: “First of all, there’s been several people stand at that podium and ask you questions, and you get exactly like that, Clifton. You are the most disrespectful commissioner I’ve seen in ANY committee meeting. I will sign it for you, Kaety, because I’m ___________ honest.” Citizen’s in attendance clapped at the end of his remarks.
“My intent with this was just to give you guys a chance in a public form,” said Bowers.
Beth and Wisenhunt began an argument about accusations of dishonesty and disrespect. Harris intervened and stopped the argument to continue the meeting.
Next, Mark McCoy with Bourbon County REDI addressed the commission regarding funds for work REDI had done in 2024.
Harris said that after looking at the budget, he doesn’t see any funds for them. He suggested that REDI regroup and start a new relationship with the new commission.
Wisenhunt: “I agree that we need economic development in our county. I think, money-wise, right now it’s a bad time. I would like to see REDI regroup, come back together and maybe start letting us know at least monthly what we’re working on, working towards, so we can get you the help from the County Commission if need be. We can reach out and get the community more involved in it.”
McCoy mentioned that communication between the county and the city should probably increase for successful of economic development. “Without everybody working together, it’s never going to happen.”
Justin Meeks, in his final acts as county counselor, reported that he hand-delivered the original Freeman agreements to Patrina Richards, general counsel for Freeman, and she expects to have them back by Jan. 3. “Once those are done, I think everything on the county’s end will be satisfied and we’ll be good to go down the road…. I’m excited to have them here. I think it will be good.”
Redistricting talk was the final agenda item. Commissioner Harris invited the citizen’s committee members to pull up a chair. He indicated that the maps had been available for viewing in the foyer before the meeting. Everyone then took about 6 minutes to look go to the foyer and look over the maps during the meeting.
Clifton Beth preferred map Number 2, as did the rest of the commission and those members of the committee that Harris heard from. Harris made the motion to accept Map 2, and the commission voted unanimously to do so.
Wisenhunt then made motion to adopt the resolution 15 for 2024 establishing commission districts for Bourbon County changing the number of commission districts from 3 to 5, per the vote of Nov. 5, 2024.
There was not further discussion from the audience or commission and the motion carried.
Another motion to create a special election on or before April 15, 2025 to fill the new districts was also carried unanimously.
Commission comments wrapped up the meeting. First, Wisenhunt apologized for his attitude and losing his cool earlier in the meeting. Next, Jim Harris mentioned, regarding his response to Katie Bower’s affidavit, “Please don’t question my integrity, my honestly, and my love for Jesus Christ. I’m going to walk away in a week with a good conscience.”
The Fort Scott Recreation offers events throughout the year to help individuals stay physically fit.
This month, January 2025, the following classes are offered: yoga/pilates, Get Fit Stay Fit, Soul Fusion, Stretch Class, youth indoor soccer, Tiger Kids Cheer, Taekwondo, and The Biggest Loser Competition.
Lucas Kelley is the Buck Run Community Center Recreation Director. Submitted photo.
Recreation Director Lucas Kelley provided a list of all the new programs coming this year:
Youth Track (starts in March) Pre-K-6th Grade
Stretch Class: January 13th – February 28th 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.
Yoga/Pilates January 13th – February 28th 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m.
All-Star Weekend Challenge: Contestants pick winners for the three National Basketball Association All-Star Events.
BRCC hours are Monday through Friday from 5 A.M. – 9 P.M.
Saturday 8:00 A.M. – 1:00 P.M. May through September, and
Sunday from noon to 5 P.M.
Recreation office hours are 8 A.M. – 5 P.M
For successful programs, it is critical for
participants to sign up by the deadline, according to the website.
Classes may be canceled if there are not enough
registrants and the decision to cancel programs will
be made shortly after the deadline.
There are fee assistance and scholarship programs available for those who need them.
“Everyone should be able to enjoy our programs! according to the website. “Based on the needs of the individual or family size,
collected from the information that is provided,
scholarships may be available. Just ask our staff
for additional information.”
“Our policy is to provide customer satisfaction and to
refund payment for services which do not meet
customer’s expectations. If by the second program
day, you are not happy with a program or have
conflicts, a credit will be issued,” according to the website.
“In the case of inclement weather and program
cancellations, register for Textcaster, listen to
KOMB FM (103.9), visit our website at
brcc.recdesk.com or call (620)-223-0386.
Managers will be notified if games are canceled, according to the website.
Lucas Kelley is the Recreation Director, Dave Fly is the Program Supervisor and Katie Chipman is the Office Manager at Buck Run Community Center, 735 S, Scott Avenue, Fort Scott.
Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.
The Mission of the Fort Scott Recreation Commission (FSRC) is to promote the development of a healthy and productive life for the citizens who reside in the USD #234 School District through broad-based recreational opportunities, according to its website.
This is done by:
Providing a positive atmosphere for people and children that is fun and enjoyable.
Encouraging participation, not the winning and losing aspect of activities.
Providing a variety of programs for all ages, stages and abilities.
Remaining cooperative and open to all community input for additional recreational programming.
Recognizing the valuable contributions of community volunteerism.
Offering training to coaches and officials so that they are better prepared.
Encouraging positive reinforcement from coaches, officials, parents and to all that participate.
The Fort Scott Recreation Commission is comprised of Tammy Hill, Susan Marbery, Stewart Gulager, Adam Lancaster, and Dillon Duffy.
The following opportunities are provided to the community:
Buck Run Community Center/ Fisher Park , Located at 735 Scott Ave.
Which has the following: Fitness Rooms, Gymnasium, Kitchen, Indoor Basketball Court, Shuffle Board, Baseball Fields, Softball Fields, Tennis Courts, Outdoor Basketball Court, Swimming, Facility Rentals for Meetings, Parties, etc., Bathrooms and Playground Area. For Information Contact Buck Run at 620-223-0386.
Gunn Park
Located at Park Avenue 2
Lakes, Fishing, Shelter Houses, Tent & RV Camping, Bathrooms, Picnic Tables, Disc Golf and Playground Area. For Rental Information Contact City Hall at 620-223– 0550.
Lake Fort Scott
Located at Rt. 5 South of Fort Scott
Boating, Fishing, Swimming, Shelter Houses, Picnic Tables. For Information contact City Hall at 620-223-0550.
Bridal Veil Park
Located at West 2nd Street
Shelter House, Picnic Tables, Soccer Field, and Playground Area.
Lions Park
Located at West 18th Street
Baseball Field and Bathrooms.
Lincoln School Walking Trail
Located at West 18th Street
Walking, Running, Fishing, Picnic Tables.
Kiwanis Soccer Field
Located at 2108 Horton
Soccer Fields.
Betty Ruth Willard Fields/Ty Cullor Field
Located at 2108 Horton
Softball Fields, Baseball Field, Bathrooms, Picnic Tables and Playground Area.
Fort Scott Community College
Located at 2108 Horton
Gymnasium, Indoor Basketball, Tennis Courts, Volleyball, and Racquetball Court.
Located at the corner of Grant & Elm Street
Playground Area and Walking Trail.
James Tedesco Memorial Skate Park
Located at 4th & Scott Street Skate Park
The park is for public use by skateboarders, rollerblades, scooters and more. Helmets are not required but suggested and benches and trashcans are provided for anyone who would like to enjoy watching the skaters perform.
