Embarrassingly Honest by Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker
Embarrassingly Honest
I had purchased an item at a department/grocery store and needed to return it. I slipped it into the original bag with the receipt, as required. When I entered the store, I headed toward the friendly greeter. As I approached he asked, “Do you have a return?” I said, “Yes.” I was hoping he would just place the sticker on the bag and send me on my way. But no, he opened the bag and asked, “What have we here?” I answered, “Well, it’s a bra and it won’t fit you either.” When I’m backed into a corner with no way out, I usually respond with humor because it helps with the embarrassment of being bluntly honest.
When the truth of God’s Word or the conviction of the Holy Spirit backs me into a corner, there’s only one way to move forward – repent. And this is no laughing matter because prayer is serious business. When Christ followers realize we’ve sinned, the only option is to admit the sin, ask for forgiveness, and pray for grace to not do “it” again. Thankfully, we have hope when we fail to please God: “…if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (1 John 1:9 NLT).
Believers have to be embarrassingly honest when we confess our sin to God. Beating around the bush just doesn’t cut the mustard. God already knows what we’ve done, so it’s for our own good and spiritual progress to make a truthfully-blunt confession out loud to God. I appreciate the following scripture penned by John the beloved apostle: “My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father, He is Jesus Christ, the One who is truly righteous. He Himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins – and not only our sins but the sins of all the world” (1 John 2:1-2 NLT).
John’s letter was inspired of God to bring truth and hope to our hearts and to keep us from evil. Christ followers should be thankful that we have Jesus as our advocate to plead our case before God. When a stumbling Christian asks for forgiveness, Lawyer Jesus never loses a case – He wins every time. God isn’t looking for believers with perfect outward performances, He’s looking for those with perfect hearts. “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9 KJV).
A perfect heart is one that wants to please God, and one that is grieved over personal sin when it occurs. Other identifiers of a perfect heart include a desire for inner purity, alignment with God’s will, complete loyalty to God, and a lifelong commitment to seek God wholeheartedly. And, in the deepest part of our heart, it’s important to know without a doubt that God is patiently waiting to forgive and will restore all who are truly sorry and genuinely repent. Having a perfect heart doesn’t mean believers will flawlessly follow Christ. But it does mean we’ll commit to loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.
“…let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need” (Hebrews 4:16 NASB). Sometimes our greatest need is God’s forgiveness.
The Key: You can’t pull the wool over God’s eyes, so you might as well be embarrassingly honest with Him.
First Farmers Market Vendors Meeting of the Season In April 7
It’s almost that time again! The Fort Scott Farmers Market vendors are excited for a new Market Season and can’t wait to see you!
They will be meeting Tuesday, April 7, from 6 – 8 pm,
at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) Offices,
104 North National Avenue, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
April 7th, 6-8pm Vendors’ Meeting is for new and returning vendors.
Items to discuss:
Electing new officers
Market Guidelines
Various voucher programs
SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks
Applications and Fees
They will be discussing last year’s season to see what worked, what can be improved, and what you’d like to see happen this year.
They will elect new officers for leadership of the market.
Please look over the attached roles and consider volunteering, or someone you’d like to nominate. A smooth transition will keep the momentum established for a successful market, so President Teri Hamilton will be operating in a training/support/transitional role this year.
They will be accepting your application and fees. Please print and fill out your application, and be prepared to pay by cash or check.
2026 Fees are:
$5.00 Registration Fee
$5.00 per week
$30 (1 week per month)
$60 (2 weeks per month)
$108 (27 weeks Full Season)
Please feel free to pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in joining this year. And please reach out if any questions or comments.
“We look forward to seeing you and we can’t wait to see what you’ve got in store for the coming Market Season! It’s going to be a great year!”
Sincerely,
Teri Hamilton, President
Ethan Holly, Treasurer
Leanna Cain, Secretary
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Fort Scott Farmers’ Market
The Gathering Square Pavilion
111 N National Ave
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Chick Days are Coming! by Hunter Nickell
Chick Days are coming!
Each spring, a familiar sign goes up at local feed stores: “Chick Days Are Here.” For many families across the Southwind District, Chick Days mark the true beginning of spring. The sound of peeping chicks, the smell of fresh pine shavings, and the excitement of starting a new flock signal longer days and warmer weather ahead.
Whether you’re adding to an existing laying flock or starting backyard chickens for the first time, Chick Days at your local feed store are a great opportunity to get started. Before bringing those fluffy chicks home, though, it’s important to have the proper setup ready.
Baby chicks cannot regulate their body temperature for the first few weeks of life, so a brooder is essential. A brooder can be as simple as a large plastic tote, a stock tank, or a sturdy cardboard box, placed in a draft-free area such as a garage or outbuilding.
Line the bottom with absorbent bedding, such as pine shavings (avoid cedar shavings, which can cause respiratory irritation). Plan for about half a square foot per chick at first, increasing space as they grow.
You’ll also need a heat source. A heat lamp with a red bulb or a radiant heat plate designed for chicks works well. Start the temperature at 95 degrees Fahrenheit during the first week, then reduce by about 5 degrees each week until the chicks are fully feathered. Always secure heat lamps carefully to reduce fire risk, and check them daily. If not secured or checked, they can cause a massive fire and cause loss of animals and structures.
All baby chicks need food and fresh water! Provide a chick starter feed that contains 18–20% protein. Medicated and non-medicated options are available; the medicated starter helps prevent coccidiosis, a common intestinal disease in young poultry. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times in a shallow chick waterer to prevent drowning. Placing marbles or small stones in the waterer during the first few days can help reduce accidents. Keep feeders and waterers clean and positioned so bedding does not constantly contaminate them.
A few additional items will make management easier:
- A thermometer to monitor brooder temperature
- Electrolyte or vitamin supplements for water during times of stress
- A small scoop or sifter for cleaning out wet bedding
- A plan for long-term housing once birds outgrow the brooder
Before purchasing chicks, check local ordinances to ensure backyard poultry are allowed in your area and determine how many birds you can reasonably manage. Also consider predator protection, coop ventilation, and future feed costs.
Impulse buying can be tempting when faced with bins of fluffy chicks, but planning ahead is key. Research breeds that match your goals. Some breeds are known for high egg production, while others are better suited for meat production or dual-purpose use. Think about temperament, climate adaptability, and egg color preferences as well.
Raising backyard poultry can be a rewarding experience for families, youth projects, and small-acreage producers alike. With a little preparation and proper care, those tiny chicks will quickly grow into productive laying hens or meat birds for your household.
As you stop by your local feed store this spring, take time to prepare before bringing chicks home. A well-prepared brooder and a solid management plan will set your flock up for a healthy start — and make Chick Days an enjoyable beginning to the season. Should you have questions regarding nutrition, housing, predator control, or biosecurity practices, feel free to reach out to Hunter Nickell, Livestock Production Agent at any Southwind Extension District Office or by email at [email protected].
March 9, 2026 Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda Summary
Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda
March 9, 2026 | 5:30 PM
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I. Call Meeting To Order
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II. Pledge Of Allegiance
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III. Prayer
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IV. Approval Of Agenda
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V. Approval Of Minutes (03.02.26)
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VI. Approval Of Accounts Payable ($437,772.71)
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VII. Public Comments
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VIII. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1) – Kenny Allen
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IX. Executive Session: K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(2) – Gregg Motley
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X. Department Updates
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a. Sewer – Matt Quick
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b. NRP – Matt Quick
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c. Appraisal Update – Matt Quick
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d. County Clerk Updates
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XI. Old Business
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a. Salary Resolution – Beerbower
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b. Forensic Audit – Greg Motley
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XII. New Business
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a. Resolution 51-25, 06-22, 48-25 Discussion – Joe Allen
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XIII. Future Agenda Topics
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XIV. Commissioner Comments
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XV. Adjournment
Detailed Document Summary & Information Packet
Prior Meeting Minutes (March 2, 2026)
The commission reviewed minutes from the previous week’s session. Key discussions included:
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Agenda Adjustments: The commission added executive sessions for attorney-client privilege and non-elected personnel. Public comments were moved to accommodate visitors, and the salary resolution was postponed to the following week. (Page 2)
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Sick Leave Pool: Following an executive session, the commission voted unanimously to accept recommendations regarding a sick leave pool request from Lora Holdridge. (Page 3)
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Stronghold Data Security: Representatives reported that security improvements are 80-85% complete. Ongoing issues with software backups require a joint call with vendor CIC. Concerns were also raised regarding unreturned help desk calls from elected officials. (Page 3)
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Budget Process (Baker Tilly): Ben Hart outlined the 2027 budget approach, focusing on “goal setting” starting in April. He recommended focusing on flat property tax revenue rather than flat levy rates to ensure defensibility to the public. (Page 4)
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Noise Resolution Analysis: County Attorney James Crux highlighted enforcement challenges with a proposed noise ordinance, noting that current decibel limits (55 day/45 night) are “guidelines” and may lead to lengthy litigation. (Page 4)
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Sewer & Contamination Issues: Updates were provided on a civil sewer case involving KDHE. A citizen provided documentation of E. coli contamination on his property and requested stricter septic system inspections. (Page 4)
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Public Feedback: Citizens raised concerns regarding no-bid contracts for HR and payroll services, the division of commissioner salaries among five members versus the original three, and requested more transparency in county operations. (Pages 4-5)
New Business & Future Planning
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Producers Coop: A culvert permit for Producers Coop was unanimously approved. (Page 5)
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LKM Membership: The commission voted to continue its $1,108 membership with the League of Kansas Municipalities for training and legislative resources. (Page 5)
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Lake Fort Scott Fire Hydrant: Discussion was held regarding a destroyed fire hydrant. Rural Water District #2 offered to replace it for $3,200 if the county covers half. The item was tabled to research if benefiting homeowners should contribute. (Page 5)
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Upcoming Topics: Future agendas will include the salary resolution and an appraiser presentation on the Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRP) rebate process. (Page 5)
Accounts Payable Summary
The packet includes a comprehensive report of open invoices due by March 6, 2026, totaling $437,772.71. Major fund allocations include:
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General Fund: Payroll clearing and insurance premiums. (Page 7)
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Appraisers: Residential cost handbook subscriptions and wages. (Pages 7-8)
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Landfill: Significant payments to Allen County Public Works for MSW ($8,057.00) and various equipment repairs. (Page 10)
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Sheriff/Correctional: Includes $13,513.50 for food services and $6,040.48 for fuel. (Pages 10-11)
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Road & Bridge: Numerous entries for vehicle maintenance parts (O’Reilly, Amazon) and diagnostic tests. (Pages 12-13)
Obituary of Richard Lee Cook
Richard Lee Cook, passed away peacefully at home on March 3, 2026, in Fort Scott, KS, at the age of 75. Born on September 14, 1950, in Parsons, KS, Richard was a man whose life was marked by gentle wisdom, love, and creativity.
Richard is survived by his wife of 46 years, Linda Cook, and their children: Tara & Jody Summers, Rita & Clay Wheeler, Joshua & Carrie Cook, and Paul Cook. His legacy as a loving Papa continues through his grandchildren: Gwen, Atticus, Tierza, and Adeline Summers; Ainsley, Zadie, and Rory Wheeler; and Abigail and Ethan Cook. He is also survived by his sisters, Barbara Alloway and Susan Edwards. He was proceeded in death by his parents Paul and Mary Cook.
Richard graduated from Labette County High School before furthering his education at Northeastern Oklahoma A&M College and Kansas State University. He spent over 30 years farming his family land alongside his father. He also spent his younger years raising and judging prize-winning hogs with pride and dedication. Richard’s commitment to hard work was evident through his 35 years of service with the City of Fort Scott.
Richard enjoyed the simple pleasures in life such as gardening, his John Deere tractor, expressing his craft and creativity through woodworking, and spending time with his beloved family.
Richard will be remembered as a gentle, wise, and loving man. His guidance and quiet wisdom was sought by many, and his counsel was always given with kindness and thoughtfulness. His personal faith shaped who he was and how he loved.
As we bid farewell to Richard, we celebrate a life well lived. His memory, humor, love and wisdom will carry on in the lives he touched. Richard’s journey on this earth has been completed, but his spirit and presence will live on with those he loved.
Pastor Matthew Hunt will conduct funeral services at 11:30 AM Saturday, March 7th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Ft. Scott, Kansas Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 until service time at the funeral home. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com
Newsletter of U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt
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FSCC Adult Education Program Offers Year-Round Opportunities and Comprehensive Support
Fort Scott, KS – The Adult Education program at Fort Scott Community College is providing individuals ages 16 and older with the opportunity to advance their education, strengthen essential skills and prepare for future success.
The FSCC Adult Education program helps students prepare to take the GED test and earn the Kansas State High School Diploma issued by the Kansas Board of Regents. In addition to GED preparation, the program offers instruction to improve skills in reading, writing, mathematics and technology.
Beyond academic preparation, the Adult Education program supports learners in several additional areas. Students receive financial literacy education to build practical money-management skills, workforce readiness training that focuses on workplace expectations and soft skills, resume-building assistance to confidently present their experience and strengths, and mock interviews and career coaching to prepare for real employment opportunities. These services help adult learners become more confident, capable and prepared for both higher education and the workforce.
“Many of our students come to the Adult Education program balancing work, family responsibilities and other challenges, but they are determined to improve their lives through education,” said Fatimah Bader, Adult Education instructor at Fort Scott Community College. “Watching students gain confidence, pass their GED tests, and move forward toward careers or college is one of the most rewarding parts of this work.”
Bader said some students even bring their children to class while working toward their goals, demonstrating their dedication to building a better future.
Adult learners can also raise their skill levels to gain employment or pursue advancement in their current careers. Classes are offered year-round to provide flexibility for students balancing work and family responsibilities. A mandatory three-day, in-person orientation is required for all new students. A $35 materials fee is due at orientation. The cost of each GED test is $39 per subject, with four subjects required for a total of $156.
In-person classes are held Monday through Thursday. Online instruction is also available, with times varying.
Classes are held at FSCC Bailey Hall, 2108 S. Horton St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.
For more information or to enroll, contact Fatimah Bader at (620) 644-6126 or (620) 223-2700, ext. 4400, or by email at [email protected].
Fort Scott Community College Phi Theta Kappa Chapter Named 2025 REACH Chapter
Front Row: Taylor Ramirez, Jameson Anderson, Jackson Wood, Will DeBates, and Emmanuel Ebia
Back Row: Susie Arvidson, Braxton Young , Quinton Berg, and Ashley Page
Submitted photo.
Fort Scott, KS – The Phi Theta Kappa chapter at Fort Scott Community College has been recognized as a 2025 REACH Chapter through Phi Theta Kappa’s REACH Rewards program.
The REACH Rewards program honors Phi Theta Kappa chapters that demonstrate excellence in membership development and a strong commitment to expanding opportunities for eligible students. The program was created to encourage chapters to grow membership and ensure more students benefit from the organization’s mission of recognition and opportunity.
Through REACH, Phi Theta Kappa emphasizes the importance of providing students with access to scholarships, leadership development, and meaningful engagement with peers and faculty; all of which contribute to higher rates of student success and completion.
As a 2025 REACH Chapter, the FSCC Main Campus chapter will receive official Phi Theta Kappa graduation stoles. The stoles will be sent directly to the chapter’s advisor and may be distributed to chapter officers or members to wear during commencement ceremonies and keep as a symbol of their academic achievement and college completion milestone.
This recognition highlights the dedication of FSCC’s Phi Theta Kappa members and advisors in advancing the organization’s mission and enhancing the overall college experience for students.
Fort Scott Community College congratulates its Phi Theta Kappa chapter on this achievement and thanks its members and advisors for their continued commitment to student success and academic excellence.
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to host TWO Business-Building Workshops
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Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition Meeting Minutes of March 4
Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition
General Membership Meeting Minutes
March 4, 2026
- Welcome: Seventeen members from fourteen agencies attended the meeting in the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.
Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board. Reach out to Nick if you are interested.
- Member Introductions and Announcements:
- Kathy Romero – Angels Care Home Health – Angels Care has several specialty programs that other companies don’t offer. The focus this month is on traumatic brain injury. Kathy has emergency blankets available for anyone working with the unhoused. Reach out to her if you could use some.
- Shelby Moore- Families Together – Shelby works to support students and families as they navigate the special education process.
- Patty Simpson – Fort Scott Housing Authority – The housing authority has a few vacancies that will be filled with applicants on the waitlist as soon as they are ready. The waitlist is short right now.
- Rachel Carpenter – City of Fort Scott
- Janelle – Early Childhood Block Grant
- Megan Smith – Parents as Teachers – Megan has five openings in Bourbon County.
- Star Culp – Parents as Teachers – Star has one opening in Bourbon County.
- Dee Dee – Greenbush Community Liaison
- Lora Wilson – SEK/CHC
- Theresa Amershek – Child Exchange & Visitation Center
- Henry Coronado – SER Corporation – The SER Corporation helps students going into the tech field with financial assistance.
- Ashlee Reader – SEK Mental Health Center
- Cherie Walrod – Credo Senior Living – Credo has both assisted living and memory care units. On March 11th from 7:30-8:30, Credo will host a senior care coalition to network and learn more about senior care. They will also have a virtual dementia tour available that day. Credo has several rooms/suites available.
- Kelly Stammer – DCF – DCF is hosting a Together Family Event in Pittsburg on April 9th from 4-7pm. People of all ages are welcome to attend.
- Nick Johnson – Early Childhood Spring Fling – April 23 from 5:00-6:30 in the FSPC Gym 409 S. Judson. All children ages birth to six and their families are invited.
- Program:
FSCC Cosmetology Program- Talley McCullough & Harley Watson-
Talley and Harley, current FSCC cosmetology students, explained basic components of the cosmetology program and highlighted reasons they have enjoyed the program. The cosmetology school is a full-time program with classes Monday through Thursday from 7:30-5:00. There is also a nail class in the evenings. Cosmetology students learn and provide services in the areas of hair, nails, waxing, facials, massage basics, and pedicures. Students can also pursue additional certifications in the field. The cosmetology program offers flexible enrollment opportunities. Students complete 1500 hours throughout the program, which usually takes 10-12 months. Since the program is through the community college, grants and financial assistance are available. Students also noted that the program is very affordable compared to other private cosmetology schools in the region. Several area community colleges have closed their cosmetology programs, which has led to an increase in enrollment. Upon completion of the program, the school helps students find apprenticeships and employment and helps students obtain licensure in their preferred state. Anyone interested in cosmetology services can make an appointment by calling FSCC. For more information about the cosmetology program, see the cosmetology school’s Facebook page.
- Open Forum: Nothing further came before the coalition.
Adjournment: The next G
Ken Collins Kansas State Representative-Second District Newsletter
Thoughts From Under the Dome
Ken Collins
Kansas State Representative-Second District
Thie week started out somber in the Kansas Statehouse with the unexpected death of a friend and colleague, Representative John Resman of Olathe. I sat next to John on the House floor during my freshman term an got to know him well. He didn’t speak up much but when he did I knew that what he had to say was worth listening to. Condolences to his family
Benny’s Bill (HB 2412) has been passed favorably by the Senate Judiciary Committee so it will soon be voted on by the whole Senate. They did make one technical amendment changing the effective date after the Governor’s approval but I believe that was done so it would go to a conference committee to be bundled with other related legislation. For those who don’t know the background behind this legislation it strengthens the penalties for child endangerment and aggravated child endangerment when the victim is under the age of six. For those who might not be familiar with the bill I am sponsoring it because of the case of Benny Cannon who suffered lifelong disabilities after a daycare incident when he was four months old. Two daycare workers were found responsible after pleading guilty in court but received light sentences in my opinion considering the damage that was inflicted.
In my last update I mentioned HB 2368 which allows for the licensure of anesthesiologist assistants in Kansas, As I mentioned before the bill was voted down but it has been brought up again and could possibly be voted on again this year. I voted against it the last time and I intend to vote that way again because I believe that it is a model that doesn’t work well for healthcare in Kansas.
HB 360 deals with PBM reform. PBMs or Pharmacy Benefit Managers are the middlemen between drug manufacturers and retail pharmacies. Currently many of the big drug chains and the PBMs are owned by the same companies which creates an unfair advantage to locally owned pharmacies like Richey’s in Erie, Mathis in Girard or Cardinal in Chanute. The bill is awaiting a committee hearing in the House where I will be voting in favor.
That is it for now. I’m hoping the best for everyone as we approach Spring even though it has been a mild Winter. Feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns that you might have. Ad Astra Per Aspera.