Government

USDA Announces June 2024 Lending Rates for Agricultural Producers

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WASHINGTON, June 3, 2024 – The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced loan interest rates for June 2024, which are effective June 3, 2024. USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) loans provide important access to capital to help agricultural producers start or expand their farming operation, purchase equipment and storage structures or meet cash flow needs.

“I encourage our lenders and borrowers alike to work with our local offices and our cooperators to capitalize fully on the existing flexibilities in these important programs,” said FSA Administrator Zach Ducheneaux.

Operating, Ownership and Emergency Loans 
FSA offers farm ownership, operating and emergency loans with favorable interest rates and terms to help eligible agricultural producers, whether multi-generational, long-time, or new to the industry, obtain financing needed to start, expand or maintain a family agricultural operation. For many loan options, FSA sets aside funding for underserved producers, including, beginning, women, American Indian or Alaskan Native, Asian, Black or African American, Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander, and Hispanic farmers and ranchers.

Interest rates for Operating and Ownership loans for June 2024 are as follows:

FSA also offers guaranteed loans through commercial lenders at rates set by those lenders.  To access an interactive online, step-by-step guide through the farm loan process, visit the Loan Assistance Tool on farmers.gov.

Commodity and Storage Facility Loans
Additionally, FSA provides low-interest financing to producers to build or upgrade on-farm storage facilities and purchase handling equipment and loans that provide interim financing to help producers meet cash flow needs without having to sell their commodities when market prices are low.  Funds for these loans are provided through the Commodity Credit Corporation (CCC) and are administered by FSA.

Farm Loan Program Process Improvement
FSA has a significant initiative underway to streamline and automate the Farm Loan Program customer-facing business process. For the over 26,000 producers who submit a direct loan application annually, FSA has made various improvements, including:

  • The Online Loan Application, an interactive, guided application that is paperless and provides helpful features, including an electronic signature option, the ability to attach supporting documents, such as tax returns, complete a balance sheet and build a farm operating plan.
  • The Loan Assistance Tool that provides customers with an interactive online, step-by-step guide to identifying the direct loan products that may be a fit for their business needs and to understanding the application process.
  • An online direct loan repayment feature that relieves borrowers from the necessity of calling, mailing, or visiting a local Service Center to pay a loan installment.
  • A simplified direct loan paper application, reduced from 29 pages to 13 pages.

More Information
Since the Inflation Reduction Act was signed by President Biden in August 2022, USDA’s Farm Service Agency has provided approximately $2.3 billion in immediate assistance to more than 42,000 distressed borrowers. The deadline to request assistance through the Inflation Reduction Act Assistance for Distressed Borrowers and Discrimination Financial Assistance Program has passed. Any applications submitted before the program deadlines are currently under review. Visit the related program webpages for more information.To learn more about FSA programs, producers can contact their local USDA Service Center. Producers can also prepare maps for acreage reporting as well as manage farm loans and view other farm records data and customer information by logging into their farmers.gov account. If producers don’t have an account, they sign up today.

USDA touches the lives of all Americans each day in so many positive ways. Under the Biden-Harris administration, USDA is transforming America’s food system with a greater focus on more resilient local and regional food production, fairer markets for all producers, ensuring access to safe, healthy and nutritious food in all communities, building new markets and streams of income for farmers and producers using climate smart food and forestry practices, making historic investments in infrastructure and clean energy capabilities in rural America, and committing to equity across the Department by removing systemic barriers and building a workforce more representative of America. To learn more, visit usda.gov.

USDA is an equal opportunity provider, employer and lender.

Fort Scott, Government

Press Release From FS City Manager

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ATTENTION: Concerned Citizens of Bourbon County and Fort Scott. By state rules we had to post the following information, but many are reading it wrong (it is very hard to read). Michael Rogers is NOT constructing a feedlot on his property 2555 Locust Rd. Fort Scott, Kansas 66701. He is constructing erosion barriers on his property.

 

The City of Fort Scott is not responsible for any of the information written in the document and since it is outside of the 3-mile radius does not have Code Enforcement jurisdiction.

 

The City of Fort Scott is required to post this document per the State of Kansas request.

 

Sorry for any confusion this may have caused to residents close to 2555 Locust Rd. and to Michael Rogers.

 

Brad Matkin

City Manager

City of Fort Scott

 

For information on Public Notice No. KS-AG-R-24-010. Visit our City Clerk page, https://www.fscity.org/206/City-Clerk

 

 

Brad Matkin

City Manager

City of Fort Scott

Obituary

Obituary of Maurine McCalment

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Maurine McCalment, age 96, a former resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, and more recently of Moore, Oklahoma, passed away Thursday, May 30, 2024, at her home in Oklahoma.  She was born October 6, 1927, in Fredonia, Kansas, the daughter of Joseph Stroud and Anna Kunkel Stroud.  Maurine graduated from the Fredonia High School.  Maurine first married Maurice O’Dell and together they had two sons, Jon and David.  Maurice was tragically killed in a hit and run accident.  Following his death, Maurine moved to Ft. Scott to attend the Mercy School of Nursing.  This is where she met and married Richard McCalment on June 20, 1950.  Together they had a son, Patrick.  Maurine became a registered nurse and was licensed in Kansas, Missouri, New Mexico and Colorado.  While in New Mexico, Maurine and her husband, Richard, who was a lab tech, helped to organize a mobile lab which brought health care to rural areas of the state.  She later returned to Ft. Scott and retired.  Richard passed away on November 28, 2014. Maurine later relocated to Moore, Oklahoma to live near her son, Patrick.

 

Maurine is survived by her two sons, Jon O’Dell of Chanute, Kansas and Patrick McCalment of Moore, Oklahoma; three grandchildren, Michael O’Dell, Achim Dorner and Petra Ring and numerous great-grandchildren.  In addition to her husbands, Maurine was preceded in death by a son, David O’Dell; three brothers and three sisters.

 

There was cremation.  A memorial service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Wednesday, June 19th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.  Private burial will take place in the Clarksburg Cemetery.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Entertainment, Fort Scott, Schools, Youth

FSHS Tiger Drama Camp Performs Sleeping Beauty on June 10, 11

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This year’s annual Fort Scott High School Tiger Drama Camp performs Sleeping Beauty by Kathryn Schultz Miller on June 10 and 11 at 7 p.m. at the Fort Scott High School Auditorium.

 

Thirty three students in 1st through 9th grade spent two weeks at camp preparing for the production.

 

The character of Aurora is played by 8th grader Celia Hamilton and Morgana (the Bad Fairy) is played by freshman Isis Patton. Other notable characters include King Alfred, played by freshman Beowulf Carpenter; Lilac (the Head Good Fairy), portrayed by fifth grader Audrey McNutt; and Prince Ferdinand, played by seventh grader Adam Perry.

 

The camp and show are directed entirely by FSHS Thespians. Recent graduate Regen Wells and senior Cooper George are the Directors.

 

George said, “I have been enjoying the technical aspect and working one on one with the designers. I have loved working on set dressing and learning how to use materials for what they weren’t designed for. But overall, I have loved seeing the different personalities and energies from the kids. I truly hope the kids will see what theatre is and all the different possibilities they can find in it, and the possibility of them returning for more shows or being involved with theatre during their high school and college years.”

 

Technical staff include:  senior Mykael Lewis – Stage Manager, senior Kiara Thompson and junior Garrett Arvidson – Assistant Stage Managers, graduate Casey Gomez – Choreographer, sophomore Allie Wards – Costume Designer, graduate Natalie Woods – Sound Designer, graduate Lizzy Moore and junior Junie Fisher – Music Directors, junior Charlie Chaplin and sophomore Abby Szczepanski – Lighting Designers, junior Tobi Larrabee and senior Molly Hoyt – Arts Directors and senior Milo Donnelly – Props Master. Many other Thespians serve as acting coaches and leaders and Thespian Director Angie Bin serves as show producer.

 

During the two week camp, students learn about most technical theatre areas such as lighting, sound, costuming, stagecraft, and make-up. They also help to create the artistic set decor.

 

“We are very lucky to have an amazing group of recently graduated seniors working on this staff in the areas that they are going to be majoring in in college. They are really experiencing on the job training right now in the careers they plan to pursue in the future,” Bin said.

 

“This is my fourth time working on directing the children’s summer play through the FSHS Tiger Drama camp. I find that this program is one of the most valuable things the high school runs. This year alone, I have received so many kind words from parents about how much their children love and enjoy these shows. Because of Tiger Drama Camp, I discovered my passion for directing and Stage Management. I’m pursuing theatre as a career in college. I hope you’ll all come out to support these amazing kids and see the work they’ve put into making this show spectacular!” Wells said.

Tickets for the show are $5 for reserved seats and are available at fortscotthighschool.ludus.com or at the doors. Doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.

 

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Bourbon County, Elections, Jobs

Candidates File for Primary Election: Change Coming For Bourbon County Government

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The Vote Here sign sits in front of the north wing of the Bourbon County Courthouse, 210 S. National in 2018.

The Bourbon County Primary Election Day will be on August 6.

“Early voting will begin on July 29, to give everybody a week to come in early to vote,” Bourbon County Clerk Jennifer Hawkins said.

Five Bourbon County Government officials are seeking re-election this year.

And there is a shift in elected personnel.

Patty Love, the current Bourbon County Treasurer, has decided to retire and will not seek re-election this year, according to Hawkins.

“After much consideration, I have decided to run for Bourbon County Treasurer,” she said. “I spent five years working in the  Treasurer’s Office and feel my knowledge and experience are needed in that office.”

Love, Hawkins, and Bourbon County Chief Financial Officer Susan Walker have worked closely on county issues over the past few years, Hawkins said.

“We are making great progress within the organization, as evident by the good audits, however; I feel there is still more to accomplish, and I can help accomplish this by being Treasurer,” she said.

“Susan Walker, CFO, has played an integral part in my success as County Clerk and I feel she would be an excellent Clerk as she has 20 years of experience in human resources and municipal finance and government,” Hawkins said.

“Many do not know that Susan is a Certified Municipal Clerk through Wichita State University,” Hawkins said. “Given how well our offices have worked in the past I feel this will make for a smooth transition. Our plans are to create policies and procedures to ensure financial controls are in place for future elected officials.”

“By working together and developing policies and procedures there will be checks and balances in place and the need for a Chief Financial Officer can be eliminated potentially saving the wages of the CFO or reallocating the wages to other needs,” Hawkins said.

The following are the other incumbents and their challengers, with a short explanation of the duties of the office.

Commissioners

All three of the commissioner seats are up for re-election.

The current three County Commissioners, Clifton Beth (District 3), Jim Harris ( District 2), and Brandon Whisenhunt (District 1) have thrown their hat in the ring to serve again.

Those running against them are Clinton Walker, David Beerbower, Steven Houston, and Leroy Kruger.

The county commissioners are the chief elected officials of the county, according to the county’s website. They set policies and procedures for running the courthouse and set the budgets for all Bourbon County departments.

County Attorney

Tiara McElroy is not running again for Bourbon County Attorney and James Crux has filed for that position.

The county attorney is the prosecuting attorney for the county.

Register of Deeds

Register of Deeds Lora Holdridge has filed for the position again and no one filed to run against her.

The register of deeds keeps and records all deeds to property located in the county, according to the county’s website.  He/She maintains military discharge records and school records as well.

County Treasurer

Jennifer Hawkins and Michael Hoyt are running for county treasurer. Hawkins is the current Bourbon County Clerk.

According to the county’s website, the county treasurer collects and distributes all real and personal property taxes and is an agent for the Kansas Division of Vehicles for vehicle and title registrations.

County Clerk

Susan Walker, the current Bourbon County Finance Director, has filed for the Bourbon County Clerk position.

The county clerk is the county’s chief election officer who maintains voter registration and conducts all elections in the county, according to the county’s website.  He/she sets the tax roll and keeps records for the county as Freedom of Information Officer.

Sheriff

Sheriff Bill Martin filed to run again and is being challenged by Nelson Blythe.

The county sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county, according to the county’s website.

 

To view all the state and other county filings provided the county clerk:

2024 Primary Election Candidates – Copy

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Chamber Coffee Hosted by Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store on June 6

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Join us for Chamber Coffee!

Thursday, June 6th, 8am
Hosted by Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store

702 Pine Street, Bronson, Kansas
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store, June 6th at 8am. Perry’s Pork Rinds and Country Store is located at 702 Pine Street in Bronson, Kansas. Be sure to leave Fort Scott by 7:40am as it approximately a 20-minute drive but you do not want to miss it! Coffee, juice, and refreshments will be served, and attendees may register to win a special drawing.

Perry’s Pork Rinds started in 2017 as a home-based business making and selling pork rinds, and in 2022 they built a brand-new storefront and production facility. Their product can be ordered at the store or online in a variety of different flavors. Perry’s Pork Rinds now has produce boxes filled with 9 types of produce in each box at a discount price. Perry’s does custom orders for bulk foods for churches and community organizations, for concession stands and other type of events.

 

Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.

Click here for their Facebook page!

Click here for their website!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members

shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
Obituary

Obituary of Judith Beal

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Judith Ann Beal, age 65, resident of Fort Scott, KS, died Friday, May 31, 2024, at home surrounded by family.  She was born on May 28, 1959, in Castro Valley, CA, the daughter of Walter and Geraldine Murrel Hanks.  Judith enjoyed arts and crafts, including coloring.  She was a huge Dr. Pepper fan.  Her true love was spending time with family, especially the grandkids.  She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints in Fort Scott.

 

Survivors include her husband, Robert Beal, Sr., West Plains, MO; 3 sons, Robert Beal, Jr. (Crystal), Columbus, KS, Robert Olan Beal, West Plains, MO, and Dalton Beal (Dorris), Somonauk, IL; 2 daughters, Brandy Garner (Jason), Fort Scott, KS, and Christal Beal (Danny Lagud), Mayview, MO; 2 brothers, Raymond Mosley, NY, and Walter Hanks (Wendy), OR; a sister, Kathy Breiding (lee), CA; 11 grandchildren; 10 great grandchildren with 3 on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews.  She was preceded in death by her parents.

 

Graveside services will be held at 12:00 PM Friday, June 7th, at the West Liberty Cemetery.  The family will receive friends from 10:30 until 11:30 AM Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel before leaving for the cemetery.  Memorials are suggested to the Judith Beal Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Business, Fort Scott

Sleep Inn-Fort Scott Wins 2024 Platinum Award For Superior Service/Guest Satisfaction

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The Sleep Inn Hotel is located at 302 E. Wall, Fort Scott.

The Sleep Inn – Fort Scott Wins Prestigious 2024 Platinum Award from Choice Hotels.  

 The Sleep Inn – Fort Scott has been recognized with Choice Hotels’ prestigious 2024 Platinum Award.   The designation is awarded to the top 3% of hotels within the brand, representing a tremendous accomplishment.  As one of the top tier properties operating under the Sleep Inn flag, the hotel has demonstrated an exceptional focus on guest satisfaction and dedication to superior service. Award criteria are evaluated by Choice Hotels through its official property ranking reports.    The Sleep Inn – Fort Scott was recognized as the Sleep Inn of the Year as the best Sleep Inn hotel in the U.S. in 2017 and in 2022 received the Ring of Honor Award as among the top 1% of all Sleep Inn brand hotels.   Each other year since the hotel opened in 2014 the hotel has been awarded the Platinum Award recognizing their performance among the top 3% in the system.  The Sleep Inn – Fort Scott will celebrate its 10th anniversary in October of 2024.

“We are so proud of our team here at the Sleep Inn as we are only able to achieve this award by their hard work and consistent delivery of sincere hospitality.   Our staff drives our hospitality culture and guests frequently recognize our service and cleanliness as noticeably extraordinary.   The commitment of our entire team to maintain this culture is what has allowed us to remain in the top 3% all 10 years since we opened in 2014” said Bill Michaud, Managing Partner.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Entertainment, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Corrected Winners of the Good Ol’ Days Parade

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The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2024 Good Ol’ Days Parade winners.  The Chamber would like to thank everyone who entered and participated in the parade.  The Chamber would also like to thank the many volunteers who judged, marked the line-up, or otherwise assisted with the event.

Category                   Winner                                                                                 
Float                                 Tie between Fort Scott Nazarene Church and Community Christian Church

Foot Unit                         Clark Street Lights

Tractor                             N/A                                  

Horses                             Fort Scott Livestock Market

Classic Car                      Grand Marshall – Lavetta Simmons, car owned by Cory Bryars

Golf Cart                         Mill Creek Veterinary Clinic

Antique Car                    Niece Products

The Chamber organizes the Good Ol’ Days Parade, Halloween Parade and the Christmas Parade; If you have feedback or suggestions for future parades, you may contact the Chamber at (620) 223-3566 or email [email protected].

 

Obituary

Obituary of Judith Beal

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Judith Ann Beal, age 65, resident of Fort Scott, KS, died Friday, May 31, 2024, at home surrounded by family. She was born on May 28, 1959, in Castro Valley, CA, the daughter of Walter and Geraldine Murrel Hanks. Judith enjoyed arts and crafts, including coloring. She was a huge Dr. Pepper fan. Her true love was spending time with family, especially the grandkids. She was a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Later Day Saints in Fort Scott.

Survivors include her husband, Robert Beal, Sr., West Plains, MO; 3 sons, Robert Beal, Jr. (Crystal), Columbus, KS, Robert Olan Beal, West Plains, MO, and Dalton Beal (Dorris), Somonauk, IL; 2 daughters, Brandy Garner (Jason), Fort Scott, KS, and Christal Beal (Danny Lagud), Mayview, MO; 2 brothers, Raymond Mosley, NY, and Walter Hanks (Wendy), OR; a sister, Kathy Breiding (lee), CA; 11 grandchildren; 10 grandchildren with 3 on the way; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by her parents.

Graveside services will be held at 12:00 PM Friday, June 7th, at the West Liberty Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:30 until 11:30 AM Friday at the Cheney Witt Chapel before leaving for the cemetery. Memorials are suggested to the Judith Beal Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Local News