Ad: Now Hiring — Bookkeeper & Office Administrator

Bandera Stone — Uniontown, KS

Bandera Stone is seeking a Bookkeeper & Office Administrator to join our team in Uniontown, KS.

Part-time or full-time — flexible hours to fit your schedule.

Bandera Stone home exteriorResponsibilities include:

  • Accounts payable, accounts receivable, and payroll processing
  • Monthly bank and credit card reconciliation
  • General ledger maintenance
  • Regulatory and compliance paperwork
  • Vendor ordering and coordination
  • Customer communication and support

Qualifications:

  • Detail-oriented and organized with solid accounting knowledge
  • Experience with QuickBooks and Excel preferred
  • Sales experience a plus

To apply, submit a cover letter and resume with references to [email protected]

Bandera Stone infinity pool

Trustees Present at Graduation/Pinning Ceremonies On May 14-15

Please be advised that there is a possibility that three (3) or more members of the Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College may be present at the following campus events:

  • Thursday, May 14, 2026, at 4:00 p.m. — Nursing Pinning Ceremony – Ellis Fine Arts Building
  • Friday, May 15, 2026 — All graduation and award ceremonies taking place on the campus of Fort Scott Community College

No official board action will be taken during these events.

Submitted by:

Lindsay Hill

Dean of Advancement/FSCC Board Clerk

Fort Scott Community College

The Entire American Revolution In 40 Minutes or Less is May 29-30

Tiger Drama Camp Presents “The Entire American Revolution (In 40 Minutes or Less)”

The Fort Scott High School Tiger Drama Camp presents “The Entire American Revolution (In 40 Minutes or Less)” by Eddie McPherson at 7 p.m. on May 29 and 30 at the FSHS Auditorium.

The camp is directed and designed by the FSHS Thespians and open to children going into 1st through 9th grades.

Pioneer Drama says, “History has never been so fun… or so fast!  Flying through the major points of America’s quest for independence, this fast-and-loose comedy plays like a highlight reel of history in hilarious fashion! Sorry, Hamilton’s busy in a different play, but your audience will both laugh and learn as they watch patriots such as George Washington, Paul Revere, Samuel and John Adams, Patrick Henry, and Benjamin Franklin battle the vain King George III and his British soldiers. From the Boston Tea Party to the Battle of Bunker Hill (Did you know it was really Breed Hill?!) to the crossing of the Delaware and onward to the British surrender at Yorktown…”

The cast includes 25 students from the surrounding area while over a dozen high school students serve as directors and technical crew. FSHS recent graduates Levi Fairchild and Chris Newman serve as Directors and Thespians is directed by FSHS Theatre teacher Angie Bin.

Tickets are $5 and available at fortscotthighschool.ludus.com or at the door. Tickets are reserved seating and doors open 30 minutes prior to showtime.

FSHS Tiger Drama Camp was recently featured in the Show Me the Ozarks Magazine. The in-depth story can be found on the magazine’s website.

“The Entire American Revolution (In 40 Minutes or Less)” is produced by special arrangement with Pioneer Drama

Service, Denver, Colorado.

# # #

Freeman Health System Selects News Electronic Health Record System

Epic Partnership 

Freeman Health System Selects Epic as its New Electronic Health Record System 

                                     

Joplin, MO – Ensuring a more seamless patient experience for decades to come, Freeman Health System has selected health care software leader Epic as its next-generation electronic health record (EHR) system.

 

Epic features innovative tools like MyChart for patient engagement, AI-driven analytics, telehealth, and specialized modules for cardiology or oncology, as examples. Previously, Freeman utilized Meditech software as its EHR vendor.

 

The region’s largest healthcare provider expects to roll out Epic system-wide on October 24, 2026.

 

“Epic will allow us to streamline workflows and documentation, improve access to information, and ensure our patients and providers are supported by a system designed to meet today’s needs and tomorrow’s challenges,” said Freeman’s Chief Information Officer Matthew Sabus.

 

Once operational, Epic will serve as a single, integrated platform for clinical and administrative workflows across Freeman Health System, which includes four hospitals, behavioral health giant Ozark Center, and numerous primary, urgent, and specialty clinics across three states.

 

Health systems like Freeman are switching to Epic—the nation’s largest EHR vendor with more than 325 million patients having a current record in its system—to enhance patient care, streamline operations, improve clinician well-being, and provide a simpler healthcare experience for the communities they serve.

 

“This decision is a major milestone in our journey to provide compassionate, coordinated care that is powered by innovation,” Sabus said.

 

Electronic health records systematically collect patient and population health information in digital format, with the capability of safely sharing these records across various healthcare settings.

 

Freeman’s anticipated switch to Epic, Sabus said, “is the beginning of something truly transformative for our patients, our providers, and our entire health system.”

 

###

 

 

About Freeman Health System
Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital, Freeman Fort Scott Hospital, Inc., and Ozark Center—the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services—as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics, and a variety of specialty services. With more than 320 physicians on staff representing more than 90 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, children’s services, women’s services, and many others for all of the Four State Area. Freeman is also involved in numerous community-based activities and sponsored events and celebrations. Additionally, in the Joplin/Pittsburg areas, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit freemanh

 

Locally owned, not-for-profit and nationally recognized, Freeman Health System includes Freeman Hospital West, Freeman Hospital East, Freeman Neosho Hospital and Ozark Center – the area’s largest provider of behavioral health services – as well as two urgent care clinics, dozens of physician clinics and a variety of specialty services. With more than 300 physicians on staff representing more than 60 specialties, Freeman provides cancer care, heart and vascular care, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, children’s services and women’s services. Additionally, Freeman is the only Children’s Miracle Network Hospital in a 70-mile radius. For more information, visit www.freemanhealth.com.

 

Bourbon County Launches Genasys ALERT Notification System

Bourbon County is now utilizing the Genasys ALERT notification system to provide residents with emergency notifications and important public safety information.

Bourbon County will transition away from the current CodeRED alert system effective May 31, 2026. Residents currently receiving CodeRED notifications will need to register for Genasys ALERT, as contact information from the CodeRED system will not transfer to the new platform.

The system will be used to notify residents about incidents that may affect safety, including severe weather, floods, wildfires, gas leaks, power outages, evacuation or shelter-in-place orders, active threats, and other emergencies. Bourbon County may also use the system to provide information regarding road closures and traffic impacts related to public events such as parades, festivals, and community celebrations.

Genasys ALERT is a multi-channel communication platform that delivers notifications through phone calls, text messages, and email.

Residents are encouraged to register at:

bourboncountyks.genasys.com/portal

Users can customize how they receive alerts, add multiple phone numbers and email addresses, enter important locations, and choose the types of notifications they wish to receive.

To help ensure alerts are received properly, residents are encouraged to save the following contacts:

  • Phone Alerts Caller ID: (620) 224-2056
  • Text/SMS Sender ID: 65513
  • Email Notifications: Bourbon County KS ([email protected])

Receiving timely and accurate information during an emergency is extremely important. Bourbon County Emergency Management encourages all residents to register and keep their contact information updated so they can receive alerts and important community notifications.

Additional information and frequently asked questions are available on the Genasys ALERT login page.

This is a new system for Bourbon County, and officials ask for the public’s patience as final details are worked through and the transition from CodeRED is completed.

For more information, contact:

Bourbon County Emergency Management
Phone: 620-215-6316
Email: [email protected]

 

Obituary of Valerie June Canon

Valerie June Canon, age 71, resident of Fort Scott, KS, passed away Monday, May 11, 2026, at her home. She was born March 27, 1955, in Albuquerque, NM, the daughter of Clay and Carolyn K. Kepley Canon. Upon moving to Fort Scott from New Mexico, Valerie worked as a bartender at the Fort Scott Country Club and later the Silver Spur. She then worked in health care for area nursing homes. Valerie’s many interests included bingo, fishing, arts and crafts, and home décor. She was a great cook, specializing in New Mexican cuisine. Her true love was spending time with her grandchildren. Valerie had a caring heart, always having an open door for anyone in need.

Survivors include 3 children, Diane Renee Canon, Bonner Springs, KS, Ramon Martinez (Natasha) Fort Scott, KS, and Jason Martinez (Quatisha) Fort Scott, KS; 10 grandchildren, Breonna (Dashaun), Ronal, Antwaun (Vanessa), Deandre (Katherine), Angel, Leiya, Andrew, Jacob, Isabella, and Olivia; 7 great grandchildren; one great-great granddaughter; and numerous nieces and nephews. She was preceded in death by a young brother, Clay Canon, Jr., a sister Fredina Gonzales and her husband David Gonzales; and her parents.

There was cremation. Private family services will take place at a later date. Memorials are suggested to the Valerie Canon 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 Planning Commission Meeting Agenda Summaries, May 13 and 14, 2026

The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

There will be a planning commission meeting at 5:30 pm on 5/13/26 and also 5/14/26 at 210 S National Avenue.

Summary of Bourbon County Planning Committee Agenda

Bourbon County Planning Committee Agenda for Wednesday May 13th

Meeting Date: Wednesday, May 13th, 2026

Agenda Outline

  • Pledge of Allegiance (Page 1)

  • Roll Call (Page 1)

  • Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

  • Approval of Minutes (April 22nd and April 27th) (Page 1)

  • New Business (Page 1)

  • Comprehensive Plan Interviews (Page 1)

  • Public Comment (Page 1)

  • Next Meeting and Agenda Planning (Page 1)

  • Adjournment (Page 1)

Detailed Section Summaries

Administrative Approvals The committee will begin by formalizing the meeting structure. This includes the standard Pledge and Roll Call, followed by the formal approval of the current agenda. Additionally, the committee will review and approve minutes from two previous sessions held on April 22nd and April 27th to ensure historical accuracy of the records. (Page 1)

Comprehensive Plan Interviews A significant portion of the “New Business” segment is dedicated to interviews regarding the County’s Comprehensive Plan. This represents a critical step in the long-term strategic development and zoning oversight for Bourbon County. (Page 1)

Public Engagement & Future Planning The meeting provides a designated window for Public Comment, allowing residents to voice concerns or support regarding planning initiatives. Before adjournment, the committee will establish the timeline and primary objectives for the next scheduled meeting. (Page 1)

Bourbon County Planning Committee Meeting Summary

Bourbon County Planning Committee Agenda for Thursday May 14th

Date: Thursday, May 14th, 2026


Agenda Outline

  • Pledge of Allegiance (Page 1)

  • Roll Call (Page 1)

  • Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

  • New Business (Page 1)

  • Comprehensive Plan Interview (Page 1)

  • Public Comment (Page 1)

  • Next Meeting and Agenda Planning (Page 1)

  • Adjournment (Page 1)


Detailed Section Summaries

Administrative Procedures The meeting will open with the standard ceremonial and administrative protocols. This includes the Pledge of Allegiance and a formal Roll Call to establish a quorum. Following these steps, the committee will review and officially approve the agenda for the May 14th session. (Page 1)

Comprehensive Plan Development A primary focus of this session’s “New Business” involves the Comprehensive Plan Interview. This is a vital component of the county’s long-term planning strategy, likely involving discussions or candidate evaluations aimed at shaping future land use and community development goals. (Page 1)

Community Input and Future Scheduling As part of the committee’s commitment to transparency, a Public Comment period is scheduled to allow citizens to address the board directly. Prior to the meeting’s adjournment, the committee will coordinate the schedule and primary agenda items for the next upcoming meeting to ensure continuity in planning efforts. (Page 1)

2026 ARTEFFECT Competition Finalists!

2026 ARTEFFECT Competition Finalists!
ARTEFFECT is pleased to announce the 2026 Competition Finalists!

This year, ARTEFFECT received a record-breaking number of submissions from students around the world, with the 2026 finalist pool growing 15% over 2025. Thank you to all the students and educators who participated.

The 201 finalist projects were created by 52 middle school students and 149 high school students representing 32 U.S. states and 15 countries. The selected works span a wide range of styles and media, including painting, drawing, sculpture, mixed media, and digital art.

Through their projects, these students creatively interpreted the stories of 89 Unsung Heroes, including all 10 Spotlight Unsung Heroes. We invite you to explore the artwork and read excerpts from the students’ impact statements.

Congratulations to the 2026 Finalists for their exceptional work, and thank you to the educators, families, and communities whose support made these achievements possible.

In the coming weeks, join us as we celebrate the accomplishments of the 2026 Finalists. The 2026 ARTEFFECT Annual Competition award recipients will be announced on June 1. Stay tuned!

VIEW 2026 FINALISTS
SPREAD THE NEWS!
Stay connected with ARTEFFECT and spread the word about the finalists. Be sure follow us on these platforms for announcements, news, professional development, resources and more!
ARTEFFECT Instagram
ARTEFFECT Facebook Page
Art Educators Facebook Group
ARTEFFECT YouTube
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For inquiries, contact: [email protected]
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Chamber Coffee Hosted by Medicalodges on May 14

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by Chamber Member

Thursday, May 14th

 

8am

@ Medicalodges
915 S. Horton St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to attend a Chamber Coffee on Thursday, May 14th, at 8 a.m., hosted by Medicalodges, Inc. at Medicalodges Fort Scott, 915 S. Horton St. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize.

Parking at the facility is somewhat limited; however, additional parking will be available in the lot across from the Fort Scott Preschool Center on Horton. Guests may park there and easily cross the street to the front entrance, where staff will be available to welcome attendees.

In recognition of National Nursing Home Week, taking place May 10–16, this week’s Chamber Coffee is being held at Medicalodges Fort Scott to celebrate the dedicated caregivers, staff, and residents who play such an important role in the community each day. Community members will have the opportunity to tour the facility, meet members of the team, and recognize the important impact nursing homes have on families throughout the area.

Medicalodges Fort Scott is a skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility offering long-term care, short-term rehabilitation, therapy services, and personalized healthcare support. As part of the employee-owned Medicalodges, Inc. network, the facility is committed to providing compassionate care while creating a welcoming, home-like environment for residents and their families. Community Care Connections also operates from the location, providing home health services, including skilled nursing care and therapy services for residents and patients returning home who may need additional support in the comfort of their own home.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 or visit the Events Calendar at fortscott.com and click on the “Chamber Coffees” category for upcoming hosts and locations.

Click HERE to visit

Medicalodges, Inc.

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit

Medicalodges

website!

Bo. Co. Coalition Minutes of May 6

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes

 

May 6, 2026

 

 

  1.  Welcome:   11  members from ten 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.

 

 

  1.  Member Introductions and Announcements:
  • Lora Wilson shared about what she does for CHCSEK.
  • Airrick Lee was here from Neosho County Community College with a program called R.S.V.P.- Retired and Senior Volunteer Program
  • Shelby Moore with FAST -Families Together shared about the different ways her program benefits children and families.
  • Patty Simpson with Fort Scott Housing Authority shared that they were accepting applications.
  • Stephanie Breckenridge-Strengthening Families with the Family Resource Center, Her program offers help with resources and Parenting Skills.
  • Star Culp-Parents As Teachers from Greenbush, has openings in her program in BBCO
  • Kelli Mengarelli-Early Childhood Block Grant with the Family Resource Center shares about delivering books for preschoolers going to kindergarten.
  • Janelle Tate the Transitions Coordinator in six counties with the Early Childhood Block Grant.
  • Craig Campbell-GNAT Good Neighbor Action Team, this program offers assistance for single moms, and the elderly. They have currently been building wheelchair ramps for those in need in Bourbon County.  A future project is to  paint park benches at Schubitz Plaza.  This group has also been able to help with  gas line break assistance.  They are currently working on a recycling program starting, working with Vernon County.
  • Theresa Amershek – Safe House Children’s Director
  • Cheri Walrod from Credo Senior Living brought flyers about the Virtual Dementia Tour they are having during their Senior Care Coalition Luncheon on May 20.

 

  1.  Program:

Jennifer Gum-Fowler our librarian from the Fort Scott Library came to tell us about the programs that are currently happening at the library.  She shared a little history about the building which is a Carnegie building, and our library is one of the oldest in Kansas still using the original building. 

They received an ALA Grant for $20,000.00 and have partnered with Mental Health to purchase sensory toys and products for neurodiverse adults, teens and children to assist with their sensory needs.  They include a Shush Booth, Sensory Table, Light Table, Bean pods to read in, and Toys for therapists.

 

The Library has had a make over including:

-an adult space upstairs for computers, telehealth, and interviews.

-A Teen space, tv, play station, study area, including two laptops.

-A Maker space, Bambu 3-D printer, sewing machine, engraver, button maker

-Library of things for check out:

-Blood pressure cuffs

-Stud finders

-Screw guns

-Board Games

-Hot Spots

 

The Childrens Program has moved downstairs, with hard and soft play places to include a

zero to three soft area, with a charging space for parents, and a Lego wall .

 

The Summer Reading Program has started, see the Youth Services flyer

The library has been pairing with Lowell Milken Center offering a great program including a Dig Crew bag

They offer adult reading BINGO with great prizes

They offer hand designed t-shirts that are available with Dig Crew

Golden Aces for 55+, enjoy arts and crafts.

 

They partnered with DAR for the 250th Celebration.

Road Scholars flyer

 

They are participating in The National Treasure Duck Hunt, with other community businesses.

Chamber Guide Books are available at the library for free.

 

The library is a source for various resources available in our community and nationwide.  Jennifer is connected to the Library’s National and State committees allowing her to pull in resources and information nationwide.

 

Benefits of having a library card go beyond just books off the shelf it also grants us access to

 

Audio Books

Kanopy app which includes Sesame Street, Between the Lions videos free.

Information services

 Assist with families in need.

WiFi 24/7

Open to Community Service Volunteers

 

Jennifer is very excited to share her knowledge and resources with the Fort Scott community, feel free to stop by and see all of their progress and programming.  If you need something, the library is a great place to start.

 

 

  1.  Open Forum:  Nothing further came before the coalition.

 

 Adjournment:  The next Gener

Bourbon County Local News