Reckless or Restful? By Patty LaRoche

Patty LaRoche. 2023.
Author: A Little Faith Lift…Finding Joy Beyond Rejection
www.alittlefaithlift.com
AWSA (Advanced Writers & Speakers Assoc.)

My friend purchased a luxury car…you know, the kind that costs more for its oil change than my entire vehicle cost.  She had been driving it for a few hours when a cup of coffee warning sign showed up in her dashboard lights.  Alarmed, she pulled off the road to look at her manual.  Apparently, this car was so smart, it alerted the driver to take periodic rests in order to prevent an accident.

 

God created us with a need to rest. I am married to a man who, unlike me, has no trouble with that four-letter word, “rest.”  If we are leaving the house in ten minutes, he will say, “Patty, I’m going to take a short nap.  Please wake me in five minutes.”  And within thirty seconds, his snoring symphony begins.  Me, on the other hand?  It takes me ten minutes to fluff my pillow and adjust my comforter, figure which side I want to lie on, and try to cease my brain’s frantic activity.

Besides, there are always things to do in those ten minutes: fold the clothes, dry the dishes, make a quick phone call, straighten up my desk, paint a chipped toenail, floss my teeth.  I mean, being busy means I’m being productive, right?  Not according to scripture.  Psalm 23:2 tells me that God leads me beside quiet waters.  Dave understands quiet waters.  I understand living in a barrel in the middle of Niagara Falls.  The psalmist writes his words from the perspective of a shepherd tending his flock of sheep.

A good shepherd recognizes that sheep, as dumb as they are, are not at ease around rushing water.  It’s as if God created them to innately know that the weight of their wool—when wet—will drown them.  The shepherd must lead his sheep beside still waters, to a place of rest.  All the sheep must do is follow.

Author Mary Southerland once blogged about her experience learning the meaning of the word “rest.”  She wrote that she began taking piano lessons at the age of five from an elderly, sweet lady, Mrs. McKenzie.  “Her hair was slightly blue, her house smelled like lemon drops, and she had clocks that chimed and rang every fifteen minutes. I was so excited and so ready to play the piano like my sister who played for our church worship services…”

When Mary climbed atop the piano bench, she was disappointed when her teacher invited her to open the first page.  There were only little, black pictures.  “Where are the songs?” Mary asked.  For what seemed like hours, Mrs. McKenzie pointed to funny-shaped black symbols, naming them and explaining their meaning.

One was called “a rest.”  Mary was frustrated.  “Do you know why rests are so important in music?” her teacher persisted. “The music that comes after the rest is the most beautiful music of all.”                                                                                                                                                   Rest is a powerful part of our life song. Sometimes, it is the most productive thing we can do for our soul.  Just as the rest in music prepares the listener for what comes next, time spent in rest is an invaluable opportunity for preparation and restoration. Yet, we often buy the enemy’s lie that to rest is a waste.

Warren Wiersbe once said, “The ability to calm your soul and wait before God is one of the most difficult things in the Christian life. Our old nature is restless…the world around us is frantically in a hurry. But a restless heart usually leads to a reckless life.”         As we enter the Christmas season, we will be tested to live at a frantic pace.  We will need to choose: reckless or restful.

 

 

 

 

Dispose of Pesticide Containers

This is a reminder that pesticide containers are not to be repurposed after the pesticide has been used. Labels on non-refillable containers state, “Do not reuse or refill this container.” Some containers are refillable, and those labels typically say, “Refill this container with pesticide only. Do not reuse this container for any other purpose.” In some cases, the label may say, “Refill this container with [common chemical name]” or “This is a sealed, refillable container to be used only for [common chemical name],” which indicates that it can be refilled with the same pesticide by a retailer. These labeling statements make every pesticide container, from a 2.5-gallon jug up to a 30-gallon tote, illegal to reuse. Reusing containers for any other purpose is considered pesticide misuse and a violation of the Federal Insecticide, Fungicide, and Rodenticide Act. A pesticide container, even if it is empty or the label is removed (defaced), remains part of the pesticide product.

After use, pesticide containers should be disposed of properly. Disposal options may be limited by local regulations and ordinances. Containers that have been triple rinsed and crushed and/or punctured may be accepted by sanitary landfills or landfills that accept industrial waste. Check with your landfill operator prior to taking empty containers for disposal. Triple-rinsed containers can also be returned to the supplier. In addition, some counties in Kansas have a plastic pesticide container recycling program. Check with your county’s Extension office or Household Hazardous Waste program for more information.

Lonnie Mengarelli is a K-State Research and Extension Agriculture agent assigned to Southwind District. He may be reached at [email protected] or 620-223-3720

 

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

 

Sarah Lancaster, Extension Weed Science Specialist
[email protected]

Frannie Miller, Pesticide Safety and IPM Coordinator
[email protected]

 

Kansas Big Game Hunting Permits Now Available

Application Period for Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission Big Game Hunting Permits Now Open

 

TOPEKA – Kansas-based chapters of nonprofit organizations focused on wildlife conservation and promoting the hunting and fishing heritage have a special fundraising opportunity thanks to the Kansas Wildlife and Parks Commission. Through the Commission Big Game Permit program, eligible organizations can enter a random drawing for one of seven special big game hunting permits, which may then be sold to fund conservation projects. The drawing will take place at the Commission’s meeting on January 30, 2025. Applicants do not need to be present to win.

Applications are due by Jan. 17, 2025. To submit an application:

  1. Visit ksoutdoors.com/KDWP-Info/Commission
  2. Click “Commissioner Permits” toward the bottom of the page
  3. Download the file titled, “2025 Commissioner Permit Application fillable.”
  4. Return the completed application by mail or email at the addresses listed on the application

Each year, the program offers up to seven Commission Big Game permits (no more than one elk and one antelope and up to seven deer permits), depending on applicants’ preferences. Deer permits are either-species/either-sex and are valid statewide during any season with the legal equipment for that season; and, they do not count against other big game permits the license holder may obtain.

Winning organizations keep 15 percent of their sale price of the Commission Big Game Permit to support their missions. The remaining 85 percent is held by the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks until a mutually agreed upon conservation project is approved. (If Kansas Hunters Feeding the Hungry is drawn, they may keep 85 percent of their sale price in order to offset donated deer processing fees.) Organizations may not win a Commission Big Game Permit more than once in a three-year period.

For more information, contact Jake George, KDWP Wildlife Division Director, at [email protected].

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Updated Calendar For Christmas On The Bricks

Join us for the 2nd Annual

Christmas on the Bricks Festival

in Downtown Fort Scott!

First weekend of December

December 5th thru December 8th

See below for details!

*Some activities require pre-registration

Click HERE for our website with detailed information so you don’t miss out!

Also, Like & Follow the Festival

Facebook page to stay informed.

The festival will be packed full of holiday cheer, events, shopping, and activities for all ages with aspirations to be a destination for a Hallmark Christmas.

The weekend will kick off with the

“A Storybook Christmas” Parade of Lights

on Thursday, December 5th at 6pm,

followed by the Lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, Music by St. Mary’s School Choir,

Holiday Fireworks, and Pictures with Santa at the Mayor’s Christmas Tree!

Click HERE to enter the parade by 1pm on 12/3!

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***NOTE: EVENTS IN RED BELOW REQUIRE PRE-REGISTRATION,

CLICK THE RED LINKS FOR INFO. AND TO REGISTER. ***

CLICK THE GREEN LINKS FOR ADDITIONAL INFO ***

Thursday, December 5th

  • 6pm – Christmas Parade, “A Storybook Christmas”, followed by the lighting of the Mayor’s Christmas Tree, music by St. Mary’s School, and Fireworks. To register an entry in the parade click here, free to enter!
  • 5-10pm – Holiday Market Booths will be open, corner of Wall & Main
  • Pictures with Santa

Friday, December 6th

  • Downtown Business Tree Decorating Contest – ALL DAY – vote for your favorite tree!
  • 10am-10pm – Candy Land Adventure, Museum of Creativity, 102 S. National Ave.
  • 11am-3pm – Historical Narrated 50-minute Trolley Tours, from the Chamber & Visitor Center, on the hour, $6 adults, $4 12 & under, last tour leaves at 2pm
  • Throughout the evening – Live Music, Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st & Main St., bring a lawn chair or blanket.
  • 4-9pm – NEW this year, Synthetic Ice-Skating Rink at the Gathering Square Pavilion!
  • 5-8pm – Nativity Showcase, First United Methodist Church, 301 S. National Ave., over 100 Nativity sets from around the world!
  • 5-8pm – Pictures with Santa, Hedgehog.INK! Book Store, 16 S. Main St.
  • 5-8pm – Pictures with The Grinch, Lowell Milken Center, 1 S. Main St.
  • 5-10pm – Holiday Market Booths will be open, corner of Wall & Main
  • 5-8pm – Downtown Stores Open Late for Shopping until at least 8pm
  • 5-9pm – The Artificers 8th Annual Christmas Showcase, 8 N. National Ave.
  • 5-9pm – Santa’s Workshop, Empress Event Center, 7 N. Main St., featuring Free Gift Wrapping for gifts purchased Downtown, Letters to Santa, Kids Coloring & Crafts, and more! Any donations for gift wrapping go to CORE Community of Bourbon County.
  • 5:30-8:30pm – Living Nativity by Bethel Church, each set lasts 15 minutes, on the 1/2 hour, last set starts at 8pm, corner of 1st & Scott Streets across from the Courtland Hotel.
  • 6-10pm – Horse-drawn Carriage Rides, departing from the Depot, Wall & Scott St., pre-registration required, $40/carriage for up to 4 people.
  • 6pm until over – Outdoor Movies at Lowell Milken Park, 1 S. Main St.
  • 6-10pm – Firepits with S’mores on Skubitz Plaza, $1 per kit
  • 6:30-9:30pm – Annual Candlelight Tours of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, advance tickets required
  • 7-8:30pm – Bourbon Tasting of Kansas Bourbons, Green Lantern Speakeasy, 110 S. Main St.
  • 9pm-1am – Christmas Karaoke at Sharky’s North Pole Christmas Pop-up Bar, 16 N. National Ave., $10 cover

Saturday, December 7th

  • Downtown Business Tree Decorating Contest – ALL DAY – vote for your favorite tree!
  • Throughout the day – Live Music, Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st & Main St., bring a lawn chair or blanket.
  • 10am-3pm – Historical Narrated 50-minute Trolley Tours, from the Chamber & Visitor Center, on the hour, $6 adults, $4 12 & under, last tour leaves at 2pm
  • 10am-2pm – Nativity Showcase, First United Methodist Church, 301 S. National Ave., over 100 Nativity sets from around the world!
  • 10am – Gingerbread House Making Contest, Brickstreet BBQ, 3 W. Oak St., pre-registration required to ensure supplies.
  • 10am-4pm – Candy Land Adventure, Museum of Creativity, 102 S. National Ave.
  • 10am-9pm – The Artificers 8th Annual Christmas Showcase, 8 N. National Ave.
  • 10am-8pm – Santa’s Workshop, Empress Event Center, 7 N. Main St., featuring Free Gift Wrapping for gifts purchased Downtown, Letters to Santa, Kids Coloring & Crafts, and more! Any donations for gift wrapping go to CORE Community of Bourbon County.
  • 12pm-10pm – Holiday Market Booths will be open, corner of Wall & Main
  • 12pm-2pm – Pictures with Santa, Hedgehog.INK! Book Store, 16 S. Main St.
  • 12-2pm – Pictures with The Grinch, Lowell Milken Center, 1 S. Main St.
  • 12pm-9pm – NEW this year, Synthetic Ice-Skating Rink at the Gathering Square Pavilion!
  • 1-3pm – Christmas Paint Party, Mi Ranchito, 17 S. Main St., $40/person, pre-registration required.
  • 1:30-3pm – Brew on the Bricks, A Craft Beer Tasting, Green Lantern Speakeasy, 110 S. Main St.
  • 3-4pm – Storytime, Hedgehog.INK! Book Store, 16 S. Main St.
  • 5-8pm – Pictures with Santa, Hedgehog.INK! Book Store, 16 S. Main St.
  • 5-8pm – Pictures with The Grinch, Lowell Milken Center, 1 S. Main St.
  • 5-8pm – Christmas Cookie Decorating, The Kitchen Collective + Collaborative, 12 S. Main St.
  • 5-9pm – Annual Candlelight Tours of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, advance tickets required
  • 5-8pm – Downtown Stores Open Late for Shopping until at least 8pm
  • 5:30-8:30pm – Living Nativity by Bethel Church, each set lasts 15 minutes, on the 1/2 hour, last set starts at 8pm, corner of 1st & Scott Streets across from the Courtland Hotel.
  • 6-10pm – Horse-drawn Carriage Rides, departing from the Depot, Wall & Scott St., pre-registration required, $40/carriage for up to 4 people.
  • 6-10pm – Firepits with S’mores on Skubitz Plaza, $1 per kit
  • 7-8:30pm – Bourbon Tasting of Kansas Bourbons, Green Lantern Speakeasy, 110 S. Main St.
  • 8pm – Late-night SINGO, Memorial Hall, $10 per card, 3 start times this year: 6:30-7:30pm, 8-9pm, 9:30-10:30pm
  • 9pm-1am – Visit the Sharky’s North Pole Christmas Pop-up Bar, 16 N. National Ave., $5 cover

Sunday, December 8th

  • 10:30am-2pm – Holiday Brunch, Liberty Theatre, register at fscrooners.com, $20 adults, 10 & under $12.
  • 12pm-2pm – Nativity Showcase, First United Methodist Church, 301 S. National Ave., over 100 Nativity sets from around the world!
  • 12pm-5pm – The Artificers 8th Annual Christmas Showcase, 8 N. National Ave.
  • 12pm-4pm – NEW this year, Synthetic Ice-Skating Rink at the Gathering Square Pavilion!
  • 1pm – Floral Centerpiece Making Class by Sunshine Boutique, 1pm, pre-registration required, 20 spots available, $40/person, will take place at the Courtland Hotel.

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Be sure and look for the Christmas cutouts throughout

Downtown for photo opportunities with your friends and family, made by Mike & Danyell Miles.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce and City of Fort Scott express sincere thanks to ALL the sponsors, volunteers,

and staff who are making this event possible, including:

Event Chairperson and Chamber Board Member, Diane Striler

Chamber President & CEO, Lindsay Madison

Communications & Events Coordinator, Leslie Godden

Locals and visitors are encouraged to make plans to enjoy this

FUN weekend on the bricks of the Downtown Historic District!

Contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at

(620) 223-3566 or [email protected]

for questions or more information.

See the full event flyer below,

or click HERE for a PDF printable copy.

We would appreciate you sharing with

your family & friends!

* A special recognition & appreciation to everyone who donated and helped make the Skating Rink a success.

The rink would not be possible without all of the support!

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Thank you to our Chamber Champion members below for their premium support of the Chamber year-round!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
 

Updates at Buck Run Community Center Ongoing

The Buck Run Community Center has seen some updates in the facility recently.

The renovations were done by employees at the center, Lucas Kelley the Recreation Director, Dustin Fly the Maintenance Supervisor, and Katie Chipman the Office Manager.

“It is all funded by proceeds from our fitness center,” Kelley said. “Total renovations cost us $2,000.
Renovations on the Buck Run Community Center. Submitted photo.
In the concession stand:
“We added new flooring to replace the old stained carpet and
reorganized/simplified our tables and serving machines,” he said.
The lounge area. Submitted photo.
In the lounge area:
“We removed the original unused office and replaced it with a new seating area,” he said.
The front desk area of the Buck Run Community Center. Submitted photo.
The front desk area makeover:
“We gave our front desk a new look using contact paper! This gives our front desk a more modern feel,” Kelley said.
Future projects at Buck Run Community Center include painting in the weight room, gyms,  and meeting room.
“We are also planning on installing 3/8” thick rubber flooring throughout our entire Fitness Center after the first of the year,” he said.
Buck Run Community Center, 735 Scott Avenue.
The Fort Scott Recreation Department is located at 735 S Scott St, Fort Scott.
To contact BRCC phone 620-223-0386 or email [email protected] or view the website at brcc.recdesk.com

Spotlight on the 2024 National Discovery Award Competition Outstanding Teachers

 

November 25, 2024

Vol. 11

Spotlight on the 2024 National Discovery Award Competition Outstanding Teachers

In September, the Lowell Milken Center proudly announced the outstanding educators honored in the 2024 National Discovery Award competition. In this edition of our newsletter, we want to dedicate special recognition to these exceptional teachers whose efforts inspire excellence and student achievement.

Chris Dier of Benjamin Franklin High School (LA), a 2023 LMC Fellow, was honored as the inaugural National Discovery Award Outstanding Teacher for his remarkable dedication to student engagement and project-based learning. Additional Outstanding Teacher Awards were presented to Megan Helberg (Loup County Public Schools, NE), Tami Lunsford (Newark Charter School, NJ), and Miranda Spina and Jayda Pugliese (St. Mary Interparochial School, PA).

These educators have gone above and beyond, fostering creativity, critical thinking, and the discovery of unsung heroes whose stories inspire change. Their contributions ensure that the Discovery Award’s legacy continues to empower the next generation of changemakers.

In Their Own Words: Educators Reflect on the

Discovery Award Experience

We reached out to each of the Outstanding Teacher Award winners to hear their thoughts on the impact of the Discovery Award competition. These educators shared their inspiring experiences of guiding students through the process of uncovering the stories of unsung heroes and how this journey has enriched their classrooms. Their reflections highlight the power of project-based learning to ignite curiosity, critical thinking, and a deeper connection to history. Following are their responses.

2024 National Outstanding Teacher Chris Dier Shares How the Discovery Award Transformed His Classroom 🚀✨ Hear how this innovative competition has empowered his students and elevated his teaching approach. We know you’ll be inspired!

Thank you to the Kansas Museums Association for selecting Fort Scott as the host city for the 2024 KMA Conference! It was a privilege to connect with museum professionals from across the state, share the work of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes, and present on Life in a Jar. We’re excited about future collaborations and opportunities to celebrate history together.

Your Generosity Fuels Our Mission

Consider a Personalized Brick in Unsung Heroes Park!

For just $100, you can create a unique and enduring tribute to honor a hero in your life. By purchasing a brick, you not only create a lasting memorial but also support the Lowell Milken Center’s mission to share the remarkable stories of Unsung Heroes throughout history.

Your purchase is tax-deductible, as the Lowell Milken Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We’ll promptly email you a printable certificate, making it a hassle-free and meaningful gift option.

Secure your brick today by visiting the Lowell Milken Center at 1 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS, or by submitting this form: https://bit.ly/brick_form. For more information, contact LMC at 620-223-1312.

Support our mission by purchasing a book on Unsung Heroes! Every book shares inspiring stories of courage and change—and helps us continue our work to transform classrooms and communities.

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Gordon Parks Birthday Celebration is Now Dec. 5

Gordon Parks Museum is located on the campus of Fort Scott Community College.

Nov. 26, 2024 – The Gordon Parks Museum at Fort Scott Community College will celebrate the anniversary of Gordon Parks’ birthday on Thursday, December 5th with the showing of films throughout the day and a speaking presentation and performance by Lem Sheppard, internationally known musician and historian titled “The Music Around Gordon Parks”. The events are free of charge and the public is invited to attend. Parks, born in Fort Scott on November 30, 1912, would have been 112 this year.  He died in March 7, 2006 at the age of 93.

The schedule throughout the day will include:

 

9:25 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. — “Showing of the film Criterion Collection The Learning Tree” in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center FREE.

 

12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. — (Lunch and Learn) “The Music Around Gordon Parks” Join us as Lem Sheppard, internationally known musician and historian will be presenting a program of Jazz, blues, and Spirituals. Gordon Parks was born and grew up during the period that was referred to as the Harlem Renaissance and he will perform music that Gordon would have experienced as a child in Fort Scott, as well as in; St. Paul, Chicago and New York City. Birthday cake and drinks will be provided in the FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

1:30 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. — “Showing of the film Solomon Northup’s Odyssey” in FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center. FREE.

 

Throughout the day, visitors will be able to receive a 25% birthday discount on all apparel items.

For more information contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620- 223-2700, ext. 5850 or by email at [email protected]

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Southeast Kansas Library Newsletter Nov. 2024

The SEKnFind Newsletter
November 2024

We hope you enjoy this newsletter sent as a courtesy to adult patrons of a southeast Kansas library using the SEKnFind catalog.
This selection of titles are NEW at a SEKnFind library and available for a hold.
Need assistance? Your local librarian can show you how!
Happy Reading!

New Fiction

Toto
by Hackwith, A. J.

“I was mostly a Good Dog until they sold me out to animal control, okay? But if it’s a choice between Oz, with its creepy little singing dudes, and being behind bars in gray old Kansas, I’ll choose the place where animals talk and run the show for now, thanks. It’s not my fault that the kid is stuck here too, or that she stumbled into a tug-of-war over a pair of slippers that don’t even taste good. Now one witch in good eyeliner calls her pretty and we’re off on a quest? Teenagers. I try to tell her she’s falling in with the wrong crowd when she befriends a freaking hedge wizard made of straw, that blue jay with revolutionary aspirations, and the walking tin can. Still, I’m not one to judge when there’s the small matter of a coup in the Forest Kingdom…. Look, something really stinks in Oz, and this Wizard guy and the witches positively reek of it. As usual, it’s going to be up to a sensible little dog to do a big dog’s job and get to the bottom of it. And trust me: Little dogs can get away with anything”

The lake of lost girls
by Greene, Katherine

“It’s 1998, and female students are going missing at Southern State University in North Carolina, but freshman Jessica Fadley, once a bright and responsible student, is going through her own struggles. Just as her life seems to be careening dangerously out of control, she suddenly disappears. Twenty-four years later, Jessica’s sister Lindsey is desperately searching for answers and uses the momentum of a new chart-topping true crime podcast that focuses on cold cases to guide her own investigation. Soon,interest reaches fever pitch when the bodies of the long-missing women begin turning up at a local lake, which leads Lindsey down a disturbing road of discovery. In the present, one sister searches to untangle a complicated web of lies. In the past, the other descends ever deeper into a darkness that will lead to her ultimate fate”

Every moment since
by Whalen, Marybeth

“A small Southern town. An ordinary Saturday night. A little boy disappears without a trace”

The love elixir of Augusta Stern
by Loigman, Lynda Cohen

A heartwarming story explores how love and healing can be found in unexpected places—and how a bit of magic in each can go a long way.

One big happy family
by Mallery, Susan

At first, Julie Parker is happy that her children do not plan to visit for Christmas, because she has been hiding her younger beau from them, but when they instead want to spend the holiday at the family cabin and the guest list grows beyond Julie’s expectations, she discovers that more really is merrier.

All I want is you
by Ballard, Falon

“A holiday rom-com in which two rival authors are trapped in a hotel together when a blizzard strikes their publisher’s holiday party”

This cursed house
by Sandeen, Del

A young Black woman abandons her life in 1960s Chicago for a position with a mysterious family in New Orleans, only to discover the dark truth: they’re under a curse, and they think she can break it.

Bloodguard
by Robson, Cecy

In Old Erth, elves reign supreme, controlling all other races with an iron fist, but they are not all-powerful; unable to propagate their race, they depend on using humans as livestock, mating them with elven women to further themselves.

The estate
by Jost, Sarah

“For fans of The Cloisters and The Cartographers comes a gripping speculative suspense that follows one woman with the ability to enter the dimension of art, who finds herself trapped in a French estate as the pawn in a rich man’s game… Every estate has a secret… Art historian Camille Leray has spent her career surrounding herself with fineries and selling pieces worth millions. But she harbors a secret: she has the ability to enter the world of the artworks, and she can take others with her. But tapping into history comes with great risks. And someone has been watching, someone who knows about her magic, and her mistakes… After Camille ruins her career and reputation by misusing her powers, she vows to get her old life back. So when Maxime Foucault, an enigmatic aristocrat who owns a sprawling French estate, enlists her help in authenticating the statues of a mysterious artist, whose disappearance she has been trying to solve for years, she knows this could be her chance to turn her career around and get the man she’s always wanted. But something isn’t right about the Foucault family and the grand chateau they inhabit, and as Camille gets sucked into its walls, she finds a world of luxury and greed that causes her to risk losing herself, and everything she has ever known, forever”

The collaborators
by Idov, Michael

“Combining realistic thrills with sophisticated spycraft and witty dialogue, The Collaborators delivers a gut-punch answer to the biggest geopolitical question of our time: how, exactly, did post-Soviet Russia turn down the wrong path? Crisscrossing the globe on the way to this shocking revelation are disaffected millennial CIA officer Ari Falk, thrown into a moral and professional crisis by the death of his best asset; and brash, troubled LA heiress Maya Chou, spiraling after the disappearance of her Russian American billionaire father. The duo’s adventures take us to both classic and surprising locales-from Berlin, to Latvia, Belarus, and a 1980s Jewish refugee camp near Rome. Dynamic, fast-paced, and filled with captivating details that provide a window into a secretive world, The Collaborators is a first-rate thriller that pays homage to both meanings of “intelligence.””

Tooth and claw
by Johnson, Craig

In Alaska, Vietnam veterans Walt and Henry find work with an oil company, only to face a deadly polar bear and uncover a more dangerous threat from their co-workers, who are fiercely pursuing priceless treasure and will go to any lengths to obtain it.

The edge of nowhere
by Johnstone, William W.

A lonely drifter finds himself snowbound with a lovely widow, her young son—and a gang of trigger-happy thieves. Original.

New Audiobooks

The More the Terrier
by Rosenfelt, David

Reluctant lawyer Andy Carpenter is relieved to be headed back to Paterson, New Jersey, after a week-long family vacation in the Adirondacks. He’s ready to put the holly jolly season way behind him and settle in at home with his three dogs. But when they finally arrive, there is an extra dog eagerly awaiting them, as well as one anxious dog sitter. When the dog showed up on the doorstep a few days ago, the sitter knew Andy would know what to do. Indeed, Andy recognizes Murphy, who the Carpenters fostered before the dog went home with BJ Bremer and his mother. BJ wanted to learn all he could about caring for Murphy, which made Andy like him immediately. When Andy goes to take Murphy back to the Bremers, though, instead of the happy reunion he expects, he finds BJ’s mother in tears. It turns out Murphy ran off after BJ was arrested for murder. Andy had hoped for a quiet Christmas vacation, but he likes Murphy’s family and his golden retriever, Tara, likes Murphy, so he can’t resist getting involved. The case isn’t as simple as Andy thought it would be, though, with BJ suspected of murdering one of his professors. With nothing to go on but Andy’s own conviction in BJ’s dog-loving character, proving his innocence would be a Christmas miracle.

The Grey Wolf
by Penny, Louise

A missing coat, an intruder alarm, a note for Chief Inspector Gamache reading“this might interest you,” a puzzling scrap of paper with a mysterious list—and then a murder all propel Gamache and his team toward a terrible realization: something much more sinister than any one murder or any one case is fast approaching.

Now or Never
by Evanovich, Janet

Stephanie Plum now has two fiancés and no idea what to do about it. But the way things are going, she might not live long enough to marry anyone. While Stephanie stalls for time, she buries herself in her work as a bounty hunter, tracking down an unusually varied assortment of fugitive men.

New Nonfiction

Edible Wild Plants of the Prairie
by Kindscher, Kelly

“For some 10,000 years, the Indigenous peoples of the Great Plains regarded edible native plants as an important source of food. Not only did plants provide sustenance during times of scarcity, but they also added variety to what otherwise would have been a monotonous diet of game. The use of native plants as food sharply declined when white settlers arrived and imposed their own culture with its differing notions of what was fit to eat. The biggest change with this new edition is that line drawings have been replaced with color photographs that will assist foragers in identifying edible plants and allow the book to compete more successfully with other foraging guides. What else is new? A completely revised introduction Some new species; some removed Language that honors the cultures from which the plants came and a recognition that Native people’s food traditions did not die out in the nineteenth century”

Raising resilience
by Klein, Tovah P.

Drawing on research on trauma and its impact on emotional and intellectual development, an expert on child development, in this timely and hopeful new approach, offers parents five strategies for raising children who are motivated, resourceful, caring and resilient—all of what’s needed in an ever-changing world.

Revenge of the tipping point
by Gladwell, Malcolm

Twenty-five years after the publication of his bestselling first book, the author returns with a brand-new volume that reframes the lessons of The Tipping Point in a startling and revealing light.

The serviceberry
by Kimmerer, Robin Wall

The #1 New York Times bestselling author of Braiding Sweetgrass explains how to orient our lives around gratitude, reciprocity and community, based on the lessons of the natural world. Illustrations.

What the chicken knows
by Montgomery, Sy

Explores the special relationship between humans and chickens. Illustrations.

Most requested copycat dishes
by Favorite Family Recipes

“Unravel the culinary secrets behind your most-loved restaurant meals. From fast-food classics to gourmet restaurant delights, Most Requested Copycat Dishes brings the restaurant experience directly to your home kitchen. From crave-worthy appetizers likeDisneyland’s Jalapeäno Cheese Stuffed Pretzels and PF Chang’s Lettuce Wraps to mouthwatering main courses like Mizithra Pasta from The Old Spaghetti Factory and Gino’s East Chicago Deep Dish Pizza. Then finish off your meal with decadent desserts like Marie Callender’s Chocolate Satin Pie or Nothing Bundt Cake’s White Chocolate Raspberry Cake. This cookbook presents 101 tested and perfected recipes that mirror their famous cousins. With insider tips along with step-by-step photo instructions for some of the trickier recipes, Most Requested Copycat Dishes can elevate your home dining experience whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen enthusiast”

Start Here – Paint
by Clinch, Moira

Start Here: Paint gives you exciting prompts for kick-starting an artistic practice centered on painting. By e

Core Community Thanks the Community

On behalf of our Bourbon County Core Community family I just want to extend our warmest wishes to you and yours as we pause to give thanks for the relationships and growth we have witnessed this past year. We can not do what we do without the generosity of our supporters, volunteers, and donors; so please accept our deepest gratitude for your involvement and support in 2024. You are so appreciated! Happy Thanksgiving.

Submitted graphic.

Jack E. Johnson Obituary

 

 

Jack Eldon Johnson, age 93, a resident of rural Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Sunday, November 24, 2024, at his home.  He was born July 14, 1931, in Newton, Kansas, the son of Leslie George Johnson and Elizabeth Trouslot.  Jack’s father was killed in an automobile accident when Jack was a young child.  He was then raised by his mother and step-father, Frank Hill.

Jack married Darlene Krueger on June 2, 1952.  Together they had six children, Betty, Bobby, Susie, Jody, Chuck and Patty.  The Johnson family moved to their farm east of Fulton, Kansas in 1974.  Jack and Darlene later divorced, and he married Alberta Herring on May 26, 2009.

Jack worked hard to provide for his family.  In addition to maintaining his farm, Jack was also a talented welder and mechanic.  He was very mechanically minded and used this skill on several of his inventions.  In fact, he built his first welder out of an old B29 generator.  He also worked for Bill’s Coal Company for a time.  Jack enjoyed hunting and fishing as well as going to the casinos and watching Westerns.

 

Survivors include his wife, Alberta, of the home and his six children, Betty Hedges of Valley Center, Kansas, Bobby Johnson (Becky) of Wichita, Kansas, Susie Marsh (Oke) of Rose Hill, Kansas, Jody Harper (Dale) of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Chuck Johnson (Dawn) of Centerville, Kansas and Patty Simpson (Brady) of Garland, Kansas; fifteen grandchildren and thirty great-grandchildren.  Also surviving is a brother, Dennis Hill (Carolyn) of Benton, Kansas.

Jack was preceded in death by his parents and a brother, Ronald Hill.

 

Pastor Matthew Hunt will conduct funeral services at 10:30 A.M. Saturday, November 30th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Barnesville Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 5 to 7 P.M. Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Memorials are suggested to St. Jude’s Hospital 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.

Youth Services Supervisor at Fort Scott’s Library: Mackenzie Kaemmer

Mackenzie Kaemmer. Submitted photo.

Mackenzie Kaemmer, 26, is the new Youth Services Supervisor at Fort Scott Public Library.

“The beginning of my journey here at the Fort Scott Public Library has now begun, I could not be more grateful for this opportunity,” she said. “A big part of my position will be planning, scheduling, and coordinating regular and special programs for preschool, elementary children, and teens. There are many exciting programs underway; once active, such programs and services will be posted on the library website, and Facebook page, and displayed in the library. We are currently taking part in a program, Grow your Heart with Reading, in which everybody can try to win a festive Grinch tree or a giant snuggly Grinch by reading a book or donating items to our local pantry. Every contribution will get your name into the drawing on December 20th!”

Kaemmer with the Grinch Tree at the Fort Scott Public Library. Submitted photo.

 

Her job responsibilities are to acquire new materials and remove or discard unneeded items for youth, catalog library materials, plan regular and special programs for preschool, elementary
children and teens, participate in the statewide summer reading program for youth, outreach to area schools, preschools, and daycare facilities,  develop book displays and other art forms in the children’s area, create publicity flyers for youth programs, assist patrons,  instruct youth and parents on how to use the internet at the library, assist with the library’s website and social media, spearhead new library technology, maintain program statistics and submit monthly reports to the director.

Kaemmer attended Pittsburg State University and received her Bachelor of Science in Psychology with an Emphasis in Developmental Disabilities.

“Prior to university, I spent a summer as an instructional assistant at Kansas State School for the Blind (KSSB),” she said. “During my time at Pittsburg State University, I was the head graduate assistant for the University Testing Center. Under this, I was also given the opportunity to instruct a college-level General Psychology course.”

 

She hails from Overland Park, Kansas, and attributes her family—parents Bobby and Suzanne Kaemmer and siblings Kassidi, Cody, and Cooper—with helping her along life’s way.

 

“Before attending college, I knew I wanted a profession in which the directive was to provide aid for the community; I knew I wanted to help others. Growing up I underwent around ten surgeries, while there were plenty of hardships there was also time to reflect. I wanted to apply my experiences and what they have taught me towards spreading such lessons to others in hopes of enabling a better experience and strengthening an optimistic outlook on the past, present, and future.”

 

About The Library

The Fort Scott Public Library is open Monday through Friday 9:00 am-6:00 pm and Saturday from 9:00 am-2:00 pm; holidays may differ.

“On November 27th we close at 12:00 pm, and we are closed on November 28th, 29th and 30th. We will reopen as normal on Monday, December 2nd at 9:00 am,” she said.

Fort Scott Public Library, 201 S. National Avenue.

 

Bourbon County Local News