City of Fort Scott Hosts Chamber Coffee This Week

Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by the

City of Fort Scott

Thursday, December 19th

8am

City Hall

123 S. Main St.

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee this Thursday, December 19th at 8am hosted by the City of Fort Scott, 123 S. Main St. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served along with a giveaway drawing.

At this week’s Coffee, City Manager Brad Matkin will present the End of Year Accomplishments and give a preview of what’s to come for 2025.

Visit the FS City website HERE!

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.

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

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

Tanya Glessner’s New Book Release

Tanya Glessner. Submitted photo.
Fort Scott’s Tanya Glessner newest book release is
The Uncomfortable Truth: Finding Freedom in God’s Grace.
Book Overview:
The Uncomfortable Truth: Finding Freedom in God’s Grace- by Tanya Glessner invites you to embark on a transformative journey that challenges the very foundations of your understanding of faith and grace. In a world riddled with division, uncertainty, and the constant pull of fleeting desires, this powerful book serves as a beacon of hope, illuminating the path to true freedom found in God’s unwavering love.

Dive deep into the complexities of human experience as Glessner masterfully unpacks uncomfortable truths that we often shy away from. Through the lens of Scripture, she confronts the malevolent influences that seek to derail our spiritual journey and guides us toward a profound understanding of our identity in Christ. Addressing pressing societal issues such as race, gender, and socioeconomic disparities, Glessner doesn’t shy away from the hard conversations that shape our world today.

This book is more than just a spiritual exploration; it’s a practical guide filled with actionable steps that empower you to grow in your faith. Discover how to make peace with God amidst life’s pain and suffering, find your purpose, and heal through the boundless love of Christ. As you navigate the uncertainties of life, let the timeless truths within these pages anchor your soul and renew your spirit.

Are you ready to confront the uncomfortable truths that can lead to profound freedom? Join Tanya Glessner on this enlightening journey and rediscover the power of faith in a world that often seeks to diminish its significance. Purchase your copy today and step into a life transformed by grace!

Purchase link:
Submitted.

Bourbon County Commission Agenda For December 19

 

 

Bourbon County Courthouse

210 S. National Ave Fort Scott, KS 66701 Phone: 620-223-3800

Fax: 620-223-5832

 

 

 

Payroll 12-13-2024

Accounts Payable 12-13-2024

 

 

 

 

Bourbon County, Kansas

Brandon Whisenhunt

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

December 19, 2024 9:00 a.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes from 12/12/2024
    2. Approval of Accounts Payable Totaling $868,622.24
    3. Approval of Payroll Totaling $307,527.33
  1. 9:00 a.m.-Budget Amendment Public Hearing
  2. Brian Allen-Approval for Publication
  3. Brandon Whisenhunt-Redistricting
  • Public Comments
  • Bourbon County REDI
  1. Deb McCoy-Contracts of Bourbon County REDI
  2. Sheriff Bill Martin-Financial Advisor Request
  3. Redistricting
  • Commission Comments
  • Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

KSA 75-4319 (b)(1) to discuss personnel matters of individual nonelected personnel to protect their privacy.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(2) for consultation with an attorney for the public body or agency which would be deemed privileged in the

attorney-client relationship.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(3) to discuss matters relating to employer/employee negotiations whether or not in consultation with the

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust and individual     proprietorships

KSA 75-4319 (b)(6) for the preliminary discussion of the acquisition of real property.

KSA 75-4319 (b)(12) to discuss matters relating to the security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting

would jeopardize such security measures.

 

Obituary of George Montgomery Jr.

George Edward Montgomery, Jr., 81, of Fort Scott, went to meet the Lord on Wednesday evening, December 11, 2024, in Kansas City at KU Medical Center. He was born January 16, 1943, in Pulaskifield, Missouri, the son of George Edward Montgomery Sr., and Una Mae (Edwards) Montgomery. He married Terry Simons on February 4, 1972, in Miami, Oklahoma. She survives of the home.

 

George worked many different jobs in his lifetime; railroad, carpentry, city codes officer, Director of Fort Scott Housing Authority. In his retirement he devoted his time and energy to his family and his church family. He enjoyed helping with maintenance and served on the building committees for Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church and St. Mary’s Catholic School.

 

George is survived by three brothers and two sisters, his children, George Montgomery III (Cindy), Bonner Springs, Kansas; Richard Montgomery (Susan), North Charleston, South Carolina; Carl Johnson (Jeanette), Holt, Missouri; Tessie Tucker (Joe), Fort Scott, Kansas; Blake Montgomery (Angela), Olathe, Kansas; Elizabeth Murphy, Fort Scott, Kansas; Justin Montgomery (Tylar), Fort Scott, Kansas; nineteen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and numerous nieces, nephews, and friends. He is preceded in death by his parents, a sister, and a brother.

 

The Funeral Mass will be celebrated by Father Yancey Burgess at 10:00 a.m. on Friday, December 20, 2024, at the Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.

The Rosary will be at 6:00 p.m. Thursday evening, December 19, 2024, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home with a visitation following from 7:00-8:00 p.m.

Burial will take place at a later date at the Fort Scott National Cemetery following cremation.

Memorial contributions may be made to St. Mary’s Catholic School or to Mary Queen of Angels Catholic Church and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701.  Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

 

KS Aging and Disability Services Awarded $10 Million in Federal Funding

Governor Kelly Announces Additional $10 Million to Advance Whole-Person Care in Kansas


TOPEKA
– Governor Laura Kelly announced on Monday that the Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services (KDADS) has been awarded an additional $10 million in federal funding to enhance the state’s efforts in integrating primary and behavioral health care.

“This additional funding underscores our commitment to breaking down barriers to care and ensuring that every Kansan has access to comprehensive, integrated health services,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “By fostering collaboration between behavioral health clinics and primary care providers, we are building a stronger, more resilient health care system that meets the needs of all Kansans.”

This Promoting Integration of Primary and Behavioral Health Care (PIPBHC) funding from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) builds upon the $10 million received in August 2023 as part of a transformative five-year federal grant initiative aimed at improving whole-person care in Kansas.

“This funding will enable KDADS to strengthen partnerships between health care providers, expand access to integrated services, and support innovations in whole-person care delivery,” KDADS Secretary Laura Howard said. “With this continued investment, Kansas is leading the way in advancing health care systems that prioritize both the physical and behavioral health of its residents.”

The project focuses on developing behavioral health resources and referral systems within primary care provider networks by leveraging the expertise of Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs), which have a proven track record in delivering behavioral health services to the community. KDADS, in consultation with the Association of Community Mental Health Centers of Kansas (ACMHCK), will collaborate with four CCBHCs to implement this initiative.

Each participating CCBHC will partner directly with at least one primary care provider to ensure individuals have seamless access to both behavioral and physical health services. This integrated care model recognizes the critical connection between physical health and behavioral health needs and aims to address them in tandem and manage whole-person care for Kansans.

Partners in this initiative include High Plains Mental Health, Four County, Southeast Kansas, and Pawnee. There are three primary goals through this grant:

  1. Develop and implement strong referral protocols to improve the identification of physical care needs within the behavioral health system.
  2. Increase access points for individuals seeking care, whether behavioral, physical, dental, or other types of health care.
  3. Promote the integration of mental health and overall health care, emphasizing that mental health is an essential component of comprehensive health care.

“We are thrilled to receive this funding, bringing mental health and primary care services closer together,” said Craig Poe, executive director of High Plains Mental Health Center. “By integrating these critical care areas, we can address the whole person, improve health outcomes, and reduce patient costs. HPMHC will begin implementing the program immediately, collaborating with local primary care providers to identify integration opportunities. This funding reaffirms our commitment to innovation and collaboration in delivering high-quality care. Together, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.”

This initiative will directly address critical gaps in integrated care and implement targeted strategies to achieve the following objectives:

  • Reduce Barriers to Accessing Care Eliminate obstacles that prevent individuals from obtaining comprehensive physical and behavioral health services by streamlining processes, increasing access points, and prioritizing underserved communities.
  • Increase Capacity for Integrated Care Expand the reach and effectiveness of integrated care by fostering collaboration among providers, establishing strong referral networks, and enhancing communication between physical and behavioral health systems.
  • Address Suicidal Ideation Through Holistic Support Decrease instances of suicidal ideation by delivering coordinated services that address physical health, behavioral health, and the broader social determinants of health.
  • Improve Access to Primary Care Facilitate timely access to primary care services through robust screening processes and referral mechanisms designed to connect individuals with the care they need.

“The PIPBHC grant will play an integral role in helping Pawnee Mental Health Services integrate primary care and behavioral health under one roof,” said Mike Rezkalla, CEO of Pawnee Mental Health Services. “This clinical integration model will allow us to expand our scope, enhance care coordination, and maximize our ability to meet the desired outcomes of the CCBHC model both at the Medicaid level and the federal demonstration goals. We can only see the great potential the PIPBHC grant will introduce to our clients and look forward to a fruitful implementation. A big thank you to our colleagues at KDADS for making this effort possible.”

Each provider organization serves a high need, defined geographic region, offering or coordinating services for individuals facing both physical and behavioral health challenges. These regions encompass Kansas’s urban, rural, and frontier areas, reflecting the state’s diverse landscape and creating opportunities to advance integrated care. By fostering these efforts, the aim is to reduce the stigma surrounding behavioral health and ensure equitable access to comprehensive care.

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FSACF Celebrates Successful Second Match Day to End Off 2024!

The Fort Scott Area Community Foundation (FSACF) is excited to announce that their 2nd annual Match Day raised $50,121 in community donations to 11 FSACF funds!

FSACF and other CFSEK affiliate foundations raised over $155,000. In total, community donations along with matching funds resulted in over $650,000 raised through Match Day, which will benefit Southeast Kansas communities.

Since 2023, FSACF has raised over $100,000 through Match Day to help increase endowments for area nonprofits. Endowments with FSACF are meant to ensure each agency has access to guaranteed funds every year, forever. This year, thanks to the Patterson Family Foundation FSACF was able to offer $25,000 in matching funds.

“Our community truly gave with their hearts during our 2024 Match Day,” said Becky Tourtillott, FSACF Chair. “We are incredibly grateful for every donation, and those donations combined with the matching dollars, are key to us funding projects that meet real needs in Bourbon County.”

The generosity of the Fort Scott community (and beyond) makes Match Day so impactful. The FSACF board would like to thank all the Match Day donors for their continued generosity this Match Day!

Businesses That Are Now Opening on Mondays

Several downtown Fort Scott businesses have opened recently on Mondays to serve their community.

 

Bartelsmeyer Jewelry

Krista and Wyatt Hulbert. Submitted photo.

Bartelsmeyer Jewelry, 22 No. Main Street, is now open Mondays until Christmas, during the store’s normal business hours of 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. Saturdays, they are open 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Owners Wyatt and Krista Hulbert have several pieces on sale and there is a coupon on the back of the current sales flyer for a sterling silver and diamond necklace that will go to someone whose name is drawn.

Bartelsmeyer Jewelry, 22 N. Main Street.

 

Brickstreet BBQ

 

Brickstreet BBQ is at the corner of National Avenue and Oak Street just northwest of downtown Fort Scott.

Brickstreet BBQ, 3 W. Oak,  has recently started opening its doors on Mondays as well.

“We are starting to open on Mondays to see how it goes,” said Trisha Query, a shift leader at the restaurant.

The owners are Carissa and Alex Bowman.

Hours of the business are Monday through Thursday, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sunday 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the winter.

Outpost 13 West

John, Cindy, Carissa and Alex Bowman, stand in front of the new business they recently started, Outpost 13 West.

Outpost 13 West, 13 W. Oak Street, is a build-your-own burrito-bowl-taco restaurant just west of Brickstreet BBQ that this month started to have Monday hours of operations.

Hours are 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, closed on Sunday.

Owners are John and Cindy Bowman,   son, Alex Bowman, and his wife, Carissa.

The choose-your-own ingredients bar at Outpost 13 West.

 

Obituary of Helen Bolling

 

Helen Louise Bolling, 82, of Bronson, Kansas, passed away peacefully on December 13, 2024, surrounded by her loving family.

Born to Archie and Neola Clark, Helen was a woman of remarkable creativity and generosity. Affectionately known as the “Archi-tect,” she had a passion for remodeling and reimagining her home, creating a sanctuary for all who entered. A gifted seamstress, Helen crafted everything from tuxedos to intricate wedding gowns, often providing emergency fixes to save the day. Her hands not only created beautiful garments but also wove together the fabric of her family and community with love and care.

 

Helen’s journey with her beloved husband, Chub, began when they married as teenagers on December 14, 1958. Their union spanned 66 years, weathering every storm life presented. Their marriage was the cornerstone of Helen’s life, a testament to enduring love and commitment. Together, they built a family rooted in unity and strength, with children Michael, Mitchell, and Amber.

 

A voracious reader, Helen found great joy in scriptures and religious texts, deepening her faith and embodying the teachings of Christ through her daily actions. She pastored a handful of churches, along with a Chub, throughout her lifetime, including the Paint Creek Church in Redfield. Her home was the heart of many gatherings, notably her legendary Easter dinners that welcomed all, sometimes hosting over 100 guests. Her generosity extended beyond her immediate family, offering refuge and mentorship to many in times of need.

 

Helen was preceded in death by her parents, Archie and Neola Clark; brother, Jerry; sisters, Norma Kuns and Joyce Totten; and great-granddaughter, Claire Louise Bolling.

 

She is survived by her devoted husband, R.T. (Chub) Bolling; sons, Michael (Melinda) Bolling, Mitchell (Sharon) Bolling, daughter, Amber (Eric) Ericson; siblings, Ruth Emmons, John Clark, and Joe Clark; sister-in-law, Wanda Kring; grandchildren, Lindsey (Brian) Shaughnessy, Cara (Daniel) Thomas, Austin Bolling, Seth (Disheila) Bolling, Garrett (Mandie) Ericson, and Ethan (Tyler) Ericson; and great-grandchildren, Sage (Tea) Shaughnessy, and Maya Shaughnessy, Aidan, Victoria, and Kian Thomas, Caroline Bolling, Theodore and Eldon Bolling, and Julian, Jameson, and Journee Ericson. She is also survived by an incredible number of people who became the family of her heart, including Richard and Steve Shadden.

 

Helen’s memory will forever inspire those who knew her to live with generosity, faith, and an open heart, just as she did every day. The family extends their heartfelt gratitude for the outpouring of love and support during this difficult time.

 

A visitation will be held on Friday, December 20, 2024, from 12:30 p.m. to 2:30 p.m. at the Bronson Community Center, located at 509 Clay St., Bronson, KS 66716.

A graveside service will follow at 3:00 p.m. at Bronson Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests memorial contributions be made to the City of Bronson Park Renovation Fund. Memorial contributions may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, KS, 66701.  Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Red Pants on a Flag Pole by Carolyn Tucker

 

Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

 

Red Pants on a Flag Pole

 

Many years ago, a family friend erected a hefty flag pole in our yard because he knew I wanted to fly the U.S. flag. The pole has been in need of some repair work and new hardware for awhile. So one day my son Aaron loaded the pole into his truck bed so he could work on it at his house. The pole extended several feet past the tailgate, which meant a red flag was needed for safety purposes as he transported it down the highway. I walked into the kitchen where the family was having a problem-solving discussion. Aaron asked if I had a red rag to tie onto the end of the flag pole. I knew I didn’t have a red cloth or towel, so I went to the closet and cleverly found something that would work great! I enthusiastically presented the item to my son. He took one look at it and asked, “Where do you wear these?” I said, “At home in the winter.“ I smiled to myself as he drove away with my red velour leggings zip-tied to the pole and blowing in the wind.

 

The term, “red flag” is a metaphor for a warning sign of a problem. A red flag at the beach means danger, no swimming allowed. Some communities fly a red flag when it’s too windy and dry to burn anything outside.

 

Believers have internal red flags that can pop up inside us when we’re in the middle of doing life. All too often these red flags are overlooked, ignored, or disregarded. One of the wonderful and necessary works of the Holy Spirit is to help guide us.

 

All Christ followers have the Holy Spirit living inside them. We aren’t even able to follow Christ without the Holy Spirit’s help. He will wave a red flag telling us that we need to apologize, repent, change our mind, change our direction, re-think a bad decision, forgive others, give mercy, etc. When we offend the Holy Spirit, our conscience hurts us and we no longer have peace. “Don’t you realize that all of you together are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God lives in you?“ (1 Corinthians 3:16 NLT). When we’re in close communion with the Spirit of God who dwells inside us, we know when we’ve sinned against God or offended others. We experience an uncomfortable red flag in our soul when peace makes its exit.

 

Jesus told His disciples, “If you love Me, obey My commandments. And I will ask the Father, and He will give you another Advocate [Comforter, Encourager, Counselor] who will never leave you. He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive Him, because it isn’t looking for Him and doesn’t recognize Him. But you know Him, because He lives with you now and later will be in you [and is in you]” (John 14:15-17 NLT). We can think of the Holy Spirit as our defense attorney because He advocates and intercedes for us 24-7.

 

There’s a lot of new and strange ideologies in the world today. It’s a good thing Jesus asked His Father to send us the Holy Spirit to lead us into what’s true, right, and biblical.  Without Him we might be tempted to fall for some of the crazy stuff today’s culture is  sucking out of their thumbs.

 

The Key: Watch out for a red flag — it could be your neighbor’s pants.

Bourbon County Local News