Government

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Hosting NASA Administrator in Kansas
Cosmosphere in Hutchinson
On Friday, I hosted NASA Administrator Bill Nelson at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson to meet with local leaders and tour the incredible science museum. As we honor the history of our space program at the Cosmosphere, we are also approaching the dawn of a new era in space. In a few days, Artemis I will launch from the Kennedy Space Center, the most powerful rocket to ever leave Earth. The next step will be putting astronauts back on the Moon and then further into space.

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The Cosmosphere plays an important role in helping inspire and educate the next generation of scientists, engineers and astronauts. As the lead Republican on the Appropriations Subcommittee with jurisdiction over NASA, I have made it a priority to bring NASA leaders and aerospace companies to the Cosmosphere so they can witness firsthand the great work being done to engage with students across the country.

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Thank you to the Cosmosphere for being an asset to our state and the nation in these efforts. Special thanks to Jim Remar, President and CEO at the Cosmosphere, and Mimi Meredith, Senior Vice President of Communication and Chief Development Officer at the Cosmosphere, for the tour today and for the work they do to further inspire and educate young Kansans.

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McCurry Brothers Angus Farm near Sedgwick
As part of our NASA visits on Friday, I hosted NASA Administrator Nelson and Dr. Karen St. Germain, Division Director of NASA’s Earth Science Division, at the McCurry Brothers Angus Farm near Sedgwick. We discussed the droughts across Kansas and how they impact our farming community. We also discussed the use of NASA satellites to better understand weather patterns, plant crops and utilize fields and land for our farmers and ranchers. Thank you to Greg McCurry, Jesse McCurry, Pam McCurry, Matt Splitter and Vin Kissek for hosting us during this visit and for showing Administrator Nelson and Director St. Germain the importance of Kansas agriculture.

To read more about NASA’s visit, click here.

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D-J Engineering in Augusta
On Friday, we also visited D-J Engineering in Augusta. This south central Kansas company produces parts, composites and other manufacturing services to support our nation’s aerospace and defense industries.
D-J Engineering also manufactures parts for the Space Launch System (SLS), the launch vehicle used for NASA’s Artemis mission which will take us back to the Moon and beyond. The Artemis I mission is set to launch later this month.

Thank you to all at D-J Engineering for hosting us and for the work they do on a daily basis to advance our state’s role in space. Special thanks to Rezaul Chowdhury, Owner and CEO of D-J Engineering, and Ryan Hernandez, Vice President of Engineering and Tech Services, for their commitment to this mission for Kansas and our nation.

To read more about the visit, click here.

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Announcing a New Milestone for Wichita State’s NIAR WERX
This week, I joined the National Institute for Aviation Research (NIAR) at Wichita State University to announce a new milestone for NIAR’s Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) Program. NIAR WERX and Erickson Precision Ventures currently have a partnership allowing them to work together on modification, maintenance and engineering for various Boeing and Airbus aircraft, and are starting a new chapter for this program with the addition of passenger-to-freighter conversions, adding two new aircraft – A-321 and 320s – to its conversion portfolio. This process allows military or passenger aircraft to be converted into commercial freighters, extending the life of the aircraft.

Partnerships between universities and private-sector companies, like the one between NIAR WERX and Erickson Precision Ventures, demonstrate why Wichita is at the forefront of the aviation industry. Here in Kansas, our workforce is talented, energetic and eager to support and contribute to this vital aspect of the state’s economy. Erickson Precision Ventures helps meet the demand for Airbus and Boeing aircraft by working with partners around the globe to create industry leading products, and the groundbreaking work done at NIAR – from manufacturing, to maintenance, repair, and overhaul – makes it an ideal partner for engineering the aircraft of tomorrow. There are many people whose hard work has contributed to this milestone. Thank you to Dr. John Tomblin, WSU Senior Vice President for Industry & Defense Programs & NIAR Executive Director, David Jones, NIAR WERX Executive Director, Rick Muma, WSU President, Sheree Utash, WSU Tech President, Ty Masterson, Kansas Senate President and Jack Erickson, Founder of Erickson Precision Ventures, for joining in this announcement for Wichita and our state.

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Recognizing Blue Rapids as a “Fiber Community”
On Tuesday, I participated in a ribbon cutting marking Blue Rapids as a “Fiber Community” with access to fiber optic internet. This announcement is great news for the Blue Rapids community. Quality, high-speed internet is vital for our rural communities in connecting residents to much-needed educational opportunities, tele-heath care and a variety of other resources for Kansans of all ages. Access to technology – especially in rural and underserved areas – unlocks an array of opportunities for businesses, students and families alike. Thank you to State Representative Lisa Moser, Blue Rapids Mayor Jerry Zayas, Blue Valley Technologies CEO Candace Wright, John Smith, Director of Kansas Office of Broadband Development Jade Piros de Carvalho and Terry Force for joining in this announcement.

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Speaking at the Opening of KU Innovation Park Phase III Expansion
On Wednesday, I spoke at the dedication and opening of the University of Kansas Innovation Park Phase III expansion at the University of Kansas West campus. The KU Innovation Park is a non-profit economic development organization serving Northeast Kansas by offering state-of-the-art lab, office and co-working facilities to support innovative technology-focused companies and entrepreneurs. Partnerships between higher education and business leaders, like this one, highlight our state’s role as a hub for business and a place where entrepreneurs can succeed.

As the lead Republican on the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice and Science with jurisdiction and oversight authority over the Economic Development Administration, I secured a grant to help support the Phase III building. Supporting our business leaders and entrepreneurs is vital for our state’s economy and well-being. Thanks to KU Chancellor Doug Girod, U.S. Economic Development Administration Regional Director Angela Martinez, KU Innovation Park Executive Chairman LaVerne Epp and other state and local leaders for joining in this exciting milestone for our state.

Visiting KU Biodiversity Institute and Natural History Museum
During my time in Lawrence, I also visited the University of Kansas Biodiversity Institute and Natural History Museum. The Natural History Museum is part of the KU Biodiversity Institute, a KU designated research center focused on studying past and present life. Here, researchers study life on our planet and train the next generation of scientists. The museum is also home to a variety of plants, animals, fossils and cultural artifacts on display for undergraduate, graduate and public education. It was great to see the work being done to preserve our history, conduct research and educate both KU students and visitors of all ages on the world around us. Thanks to Anne Tangeman, Communications Director and Event Coordinator, Teresa MacDonald, Associate Director for Informal Science Education, and Jaime Keeler, Assistant Director of Finance and Personnel, for hosting me during this visit and for providing an informative tour of the resources offered here.

Visiting Combat Air Museum in Topeka
This week, I visited the Combat Air Museum located at the Topeka Regional Airport at Forbes Field. Since its opening in 1976, this museum has served as an educational center and tourist destination for those looking to learn more about military aviation history. It is one of only a handful of major aviation museums in the U.S. that is located on an active air field and is home to the largest collection of WWI replica aircraft in the Midwest, as well as 46 aircraft. It was great to hear about the work being done here to preserve our history and to make certain the next generation learns about our nation’s past and the sacrifices made by those who came before us.
During my visit, I met Deb Lamere, a volunteer with the Combat Air Museum and a disabled veteran who joined the Army shortly after the 2001 terrorist attacks. During her service, she flew combat tours on Chinook helicopters in Iraq and Afghanistan. On Christmas night in 2005, she flew in Iraq aboard the very same Boeing Chinook CH-47D that is now on display at the Combat Air Museum in Topeka. I want to express my thanks to her for the sacrifices she made to serve our country and for taking the time to tell her story. Thank you as well to Gene Howerton, Kevin Drewelow and Dave Murray for hosting me during my visit.

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Announcing Caldwell as a “Smart Rural Community”
I joined members from KanOkla Networks, a telecommunications provider located in Caldwell, and the Sumner County Hospital District 1 in Caldwell this week for an announcement recognizing Caldwell as a Smart Rural Community and highlighting the partnership between these two organizations aimed at improving access to broadband for rural America. It was great to hear from local leaders about the power of rural broadband and what this milestone means for the community and rural health care providers. In rural communities, the distance between a patient and a provider presents a barrier to care that is difficult to overcome. Over the past three years, telehealth has filled this gap, and we must make the COVID-19 telehealth emergency flexibilities permanent. Telehealth not only improves income for hospitals, but it improves the health of patients. In order for rural Kansas to have access to quality care, we need effective, efficient and reliable broadband. With the broadband partnership between KanOkla Network and the Caldwell Hospital, Sumner County will be providing their residents reliable access to quality care. This milestone for the Caldwell community is a step forward in making certain rural America is equipped with the same resources and access as other parts of the country. Thank you to KanOkla CEO Jill Kuehny and Sumner County Hospital District 1 CEO Brooke Bollman for joining together to make this announcement possible.

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Visiting Caldwell High School
In addition, I visited Caldwell High School, where I heard from school leadership and students about the opportunities this school provides, especially with a focus on technical vocations. The students at Caldwell High School went back to school for the fall semester on August 16th, and it is great to see how much they are already learning and the excitement they have for future growth and opportunities. Thank you to Superintendent Alan Jamison, as well as Principal Stacy Boone, Dani Schmidt of Student Services, and to students Simon Stewart, Anniston Lee, Addley Mayo and Allorah Carothers for sharing your insight and perspectives during my visit. I also want to thank Caldwell Mayor Jamie York and State Representative Bill Rhiley for accompanying us on this tour.

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Attending Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth
On Wednesday, I joined state and local leaders for the Governor’s Summit on Agricultural Growth in Manhattan. I spoke with many attendees about Kansas’ agricultural efforts and the work being done to make certain that our state remains a leader in the ag industry. Farmers and ranchers put food on our tables, clothes on our backs and the roofs over our heads. Our wellbeing and health depend on a strong agricultural sector, and our Kansas producers are the backbone of this field. When agriculture is successful, Kansas is successful. Thank you to those who attended this event and joined in conversations about the issues facing our agricultural community. We must make certain our farmers and ranchers here in Kansas have the opportunity to prosper.

Cowtown Days Parade in Ellsworth
On Saturday, I joined area residents for the Ellsworth Cowtown Days Parade. This annual tradition celebrates the community’s rich cattle town history, as Ellsworth was a national cattle market leader from 1871-1875. It was nice to see so many old friends and new faces. Congratulations to former and current employees of the Ellsworth Reporter and Ellsworth County Independent Reporter who served as parade grand marshals. Special thanks to Cowtown Days Chair Tami McGreevy for arranging my participation and John Thaemert for driving me.

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Celebrating Hutchinson’s 150th Anniversary
It was great to be in Hutchinson on Thursday evening for the 150th Anniversary Celebration. It was nice to see so many friends out celebrating this great community. During the block party it was especially great to stop by the Toy Depot and catch up with Mark and Geneva. Small businesses like the Toy Depot keep main streets unique and alive. Thank you, Mark, for all you do for the Hutch community!

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Now Accepting 2023 Spring Internship Applications
My own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works. I am proud to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today, where I have interns year-round working closely with my staff on behalf of Kansans.

Applications for internships in my Washington, D.C. and Kansas offices for the spring 2023 session are due October 9th. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence. Click here for more information and to apply.

Now Accepting 2022 Service Academy Applications
As students are preparing for the upcoming school year, I want to remind them of the opportunity to apply to a United States Service Academy. One of my favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the U.S. Military Academy in West Point, New York; the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland; the U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York.

For the list of requirements and to apply, you can visit my website here. All application materials are due to my Olathe office by Friday, September 2, 2022. After applications have been reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with my Service Academy Selection Board, which will take place on Saturday, September 24, 2022 at the Cosmosphere in Hutchinson, Kansas.

Honored to Serve You in Washington
It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.

Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C. office.

 

Very truly yours,
Jerry

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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401		 Manhattan
1800 Kimball Avenue,
Suite 270
Manhattan, KS 66052
Phone: (785) 539-8973
Fax: (785) 587-0789		 Olathe
23600 College Blvd.,
Suite 201
P.O. Box 1154
Olathe, KS 66061
Phone: (913) 393-0711
Fax: (913) 768-1366
Garden City
1511 East Fulton Terrace, Suite 1511-2
Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: (620) 260-3025		 Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259		 Pittsburg
306 N. Broadway, Suite 125 (rear entrance of bank)
P.O. Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
Phone: (620) 232-2286
Fax: (620) 232-2284
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building | Room 521 | Washington, D.C. 20501
Phone: (202) 224-6521 | Fax: (202) 228-6966

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Fort Scott, Schools

USD 234 Minutes of August 22

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Monday, August 22, 2022

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, August 22, 2022, for a special board meeting at the board office.

 

President Danny Brown opened the meeting.

 

The board heard a presentation of the revenue neutral recommendation from Gina Shelton, Finance Director/Board Clerk.  The revenue neutral hearing was held.  One patron addressed the Board.

 

The board heard a presentation of the budget from Superintendent Destry Brown and Mrs. Shelton. The budget hearing was held.  There were no patrons that addressed the Board.

 

The board went into an executive session for personnel matters.     

The board approved the following items at the meeting:

  • Resolution 22-07 – Expressing the Property Taxation Policy of USD 234 with respect to exceeding the Revenue Neutral Tax Rate
  • Approval of the 2022-23 Budget with the Building Needs Assessment and State Assessments having been provided to and evaluated by the Board of Education as used in the budget approval process
  • Resolution 22-08 – Local Option Budget Percentage to use in 2022-23 Budget
  • Approve revision of calendar
    • Tiger Families – Students will not attend on September 19th so that the district can have a professional development day to focus on safety and training. Students will attend on May 1st
  • Approve MOU with Greenbush for special education director
  • Personnel Report – following

 

President Danny Brown adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED EMPLOYMENT

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

  • Leave of Absence – Tim Coyan, FSPC Van Driver
  • Leave of Absence – Gordon Harris, Eugene Ware/FSPC custodian, Aug. 18 to Sept. 18, 2022
  • Resignation – Tamara McReynolds, Eugene Ware paraprofessional
  • Resignation – Cole Claypool – FSMS paraprofessional

 

EMPLOYMENT/REASSIGNMENTS – FOR THE 2022-23 SCHOOL YEAR

  • Tyler Slinkard – FSHS speech/debate/forensics teacher
  • Carrie Elton – FSHS paraprofessional
  • Lisa Tally – FSMS paraprofessional to FSMS ISS teacher aide
  • Lyle Brittain – FSMS paraprofessional
  • Lindsey McNeil, FSMS paraprofessional
  • Kayla Purdy – Winfield Scott paraprofessional
  • Ashley Wolf – Winfield Scott paraprofessional
  • Cho Hillman – Winfield Scott 6.5-hour cook
  • Shanna Staton, FSPC paraprofessional (half-time)
  • Katren Rienbolt – FSHS Assistant Cross Country Coach
  • Jon Barnes – FSHS Assistant Girls’ Golf Coach
  • Jamie Bloomfield – Eugene Ware paraprofessional
  • Karleigh Schoenberger – Eugene Ware paraprofessional
  • Angel Harper – Eugene Ware paraprofessional
  • Makayla Vincent – Eugene Ware paraprofessional

Supplemental position

Obituary

Obituary of Samuel Evans

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Samuel Roy Evans, age 71, lifelong resident of Devon, KS, died Saturday, August 20, 2022, at his home.  He was born March 12, 1951, in Ft. Scott, KS, the son of Samuel and Nina Henning Evans.  He graduated from Uniontown High School in 1969.

Sam married Linda Shelton on April 16, 1971, at the Devon United Methodist Church.

He worked for over 20 years for Bourbon County as a heavy equipment operator until retiring in 2016.

Sam enjoyed the outdoors, hunting, fishing, and riding horses in his younger days.  He always had a dog by his side.  He was passionate about his grandchildren and was so proud of each of them.  Sam could be described as a unique individual.  He was a member of the Devon Masonic Lodge #92 for over 25 years.

 

Survivors include his wife Linda, of the home; 2 daughters, Kelly Eastwood and husband Ken, Nevada, MO, and Katie Casper and husband Bo, Devon, KS; 2 sisters, Shirley Jefferis and husband Jim, Moran, KS, and Mary Ellen Beck, Mt. Vernon, MO; a brother, Gene Evans, Ft. Scott; 6 grandchildren, Marine Lance Corporal Corbin Eastwood, Caleb Eastwood, Mesa Casper, Kodi Jo Casper, Bryn Casper, and Samuel Cole Casper; and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his father Sam Evans; his mother, Nina Evans McCullough, and 2 brothers in law, Joe Beck, and Dennis Shelton.

 

Pastor Danny Brown will conduct graveside services at 11:00 AM Thursday, August 25th, in the Centerville Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 10:00 until 10:45 AM Thursday prior to leaving for the cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Shriner’s Transportation Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County, Schools

New Teachers at West Bourbon Elementary: Kaity Bradbury and Rhonda Foster

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This is a series on new educators in Bourbon County.

USD 235 has six new teachers and all new administrators: new elementary principal, new jr.and sr. high school principal and new superintendent. School starts on August 25.

Kaitlyn Bradbury and her family. Submitted photo.
Kaitlyn Bradbury, 33, is a new fifth-grade teacher at West Bourbon Elementary, Uniontown.
She earned a Bachelors Degree in Elementary Education from  Pittsburg State University in 2010 and a Masters in Educational Leadership in 2014.
Previously Bradbury  has worked as a WBE-Title 1 Math teacher for two years and 4th-grade for four years from 2010-2016.
Her hometown is Uniontown.
She and her husband Tony have three girls Khloe (8), Laine (4), and Andie (1).
Outside of teaching her interests are gardening, spending time in New Mexico, volleyball officiating, and is a member of Dry Ridge Baptist Church.
Bradbury was born into a family of teachers, she said.
“Both of my parents taught at Uniontown, and our lives revolved around the activities that go along with being a teacher/administrator/coach.”
” My parents are quite inspiring to me. I know the positive impact that they made on their students, and I want to leave the same legacy that they did.”
“I love building a lifelong relationship with each of my students. It is rewarding to know that you helped make their school year memorable and that they had fun learning.”
A challenge she sees:  “The misconceptions that some of the public have about teachers and what is being taught seems to currently be a big challenge. I take pride in knowing that Uniontown is a district with great teachers, and we all work very hard to see that our students are excelling.”

Rhonda Foster, 61, is a new 4th and 5th grade Math and English Teacher at West Bourbon Elementary School.

She earned a BSE at Sterling College, and a Masters of Special Education  from Pittsburg State University.

She has two years experience in general education and five in special education. Her hometown is Moran.

She has two grown daughters and a 17 year-old granddaughter, a 15 year-old grandson and a 5-month-old granddaughter.

In her spare time she loves to bake, sew and crochet, as well as attending her grandchildren’s school activities.

In addition, “I help with Bible school and other church activities,” she said. “In the past I have been a 4-H leader.”

She started her career working as a para-educator and became interested so went back to school when her youngest child was in college.

” I just enjoy working in the school setting with both staff and students,” she said.

For Foster,  the best part of teaching is making connections with the students.

A challenge she has experienced in the past is staff shortages, she said.

 

To view prior stories on the new administrators:

Vance Eden: New U235 Super In The District

Bourbon County, K-State Extension

Fall Control of Sericea Lespedeza

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Chad Guthrie
District Extension Agent, Crop production and Forage Management
Southwind District
210 S. National
Fort Scott, Kansas 66701
Office: 620-223-3720
Cell: 308-991-8415
[email protected]


Sericea Lespedeza is labeled as a noxious weed by the state of Kansas.

This means landowners are required by law to control the weed. In the Southwind District, landowners and
producers continue to fight this weed on rangeland, pasture, and small acreages.

There are multiple herbicides and cultural practices that can help control sericea, but proper timing is
very important. Our district has experienced below average rainfall most of the summer, and producers that usually target sericea in June with Tricoplyr likely weren’t able to make their applications, or their applications may not have been effective. August and September offer a second chance at controlling this tough weed.
The month of August, and into early September offer a great chance at controlling sericea while it is actively blooming.

Targeting the plant while it blooms not only kills the top
growth of the weed, but it also prevents the plants from producing a viable seed.
As many landowners have figured out, sericea is a prolific seed producer. A single stem can produce upwards of 1500 seeds, equating to over 300 pounds of seed per acre in pure
stands of sericea. With this many seeds being added to the soil’s seedbank, killing off existing plants will only provide space for new seeds to germinate, so keeping this plant from producing
seed is vital in achieving good control and eradicating the weed species.


Herbicides containing metsulfuron are recommended while sericea is blooming.

Recommended rates for broadcast spraying commonly found herbicides are: 0.5 oz/acre Escort XP, 0.625 oz/acre Cimarron Plus, and 2.5 to 3 oz/acre Chaparral. All herbicides containing
metsulfuron should be mixe with a non–ionic surfactant (NIS).
For producers looking to spot spray sericea, a tank mix of Escort + a NIS can achieve good control: 1.0 oz Escort + 1 qt NIS in 100 gal water, or 5 grams Escort + 1.5 floz NIS in 5 gal water. Adding .5 fl oz PastureGard HL per gallon tank mix can increase control.
Burning sericea lespedeza in the fall is gaining interest across the state. Where herbicide applications can cost upwards of $20 per acre, burning pastures can cost around $0.20 per acre.


Burning sericea while it is blooming or developing its seed in late–August to mid–September can remove top growth, and prevent the plant from producing a viable seed.


Burning sericea can be a challenge for producers. In the Southwind district, tall fescue is the dominant species, and is actively growing in August and September. It is often stockpiled
for late fall and winter grazing. In these situations, burning is not recommended.


Burning is recommended in non–ag situations, native pastures, and in pure stands of sericea. If properly done, patches of pure stands of sericea can be burned in fescue pastures,
but the risk of the fire spreading is always there.


Burning also will cause scarification on the existing sericea seeds in the soil and cause them to germinate, often appearing to make the situation worse.

Opinion

Johnny Cash by Carolyn Tucker

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I recently watched the iconic movie, “Walk the Line” depicting the early life of Johnny Cash. His career was successfully moving along and he began receiving large amounts of fan mail from the incarcerated. In my opinion, the best scene of the movie is when Cash pitches his unheard-of idea to the music executives. He expresses his fervent desire to perform a live-concert recording at California’s maximum-security penitentiary. During this meeting, one of the top execs said to Cash, “Your fans are church folk, Johnny — they‘re Christians. They don‘t want to hear you singing to a bunch of murderers and rapists trying to cheer ‘em up!” Cash replies, “Well, they’re not Christians then.”

 

Cash was thinking outside the box and from his heart and the music executives weren’t.  But The Man in Black was too gutsy to be dissuaded so the execs cut a deal with him. The legendary prison concert on January 13, 1968, was uncharted territory but made music history anyway. The album, “At Folsom Prison” skyrocketed his career and was one of the most-popular recordings of all time. The album received enthusiastic reviews, hit #1 on the country charts, and was certified triple platinum in 2003. The popularity from the Folsom concert prompted ABC to give Johnny Cash his own television show, which was also a huge success. I’m pleased as punch that the Christians in 1968 proved the music executives to be wrong. And I want to believe that the Christians in 2022 are going out on a limb to prove that they love people from all walks of life.

 

Cash’s Folsom Prison story reaffirms the Word of God.  Jesus spoke to His disciples and the crowds at length and said, “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed by My Father, inherit the Kingdom prepared for you from the creation of the world. For I was hungry, and you fed Me. I was thirsty, and you gave Me a drink. I was a stranger, and you invited Me into your home. I was naked, and you gave Me clothing. I was sick, and you cared for Me. I was in prison, and you visited Me.‘ Then these righteous ones will reply, ‘Lord, when did we ever see You hungry and feed You? Or thirsty and give You something to drink? Or a stranger and show You hospitality? Or naked and give You clothing? When did we ever see You sick or in prison and visit You?‘ And the King will say, ‘I tell you the truth, when you did it to one of the least of these my brothers and sisters, you were doing it to Me!‘” (Matthew 25:34-40 NLT).

 

Many times an unheard-of idea comes straight from the heart of God. And many times it’s met with boxed-in thinking and the dry-as-dust response: “We’ve never done it like that before, we don’t think it’ll work, and we don’t want to change it.” God is not locked into doing the same thing over and over again. “Behold, I will do a new thing…” (Isaiah 43:19 NKJV). As believers, we should want God to do a new thing in our hearts every day. Walking the line with God is not a humdrum experience! Our God is up to something new and good every day and we should live in unshakable expectation of His guidance and goodness. I challenge you to be gutsy and do what God has put on your heart. The world may consider it a harebrained and unheard-of idea, but what do they know, and who cares anyway?

 

The Key: Walk the line to avoid that burnin‘ ring of fire.

Opinion

Business Trends by Gregg Motley

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Business Trends

 

It is difficult for the average citizen to assess the relative health and growth of the Bourbon County business community because we do not have ready access to sales numbers of private businesses.  We tend to go by feel and whether or not our favorite stores are still open, but what does the data say?  Let us look at two counties in Southeast Kansas that are most comparable in size and complexion to Bourbon County: Neosho County and Allen County.

 

The simplest way to compare private business activity from county to county is to look at total payroll outlays.  Here is a seven year look at the three counties, ending is 2019, which is the last year available:

 

Dollars expressed with three zeros omitted.

County 2012 2019 % Change 2020 Pop. 10yr % Change
Allen $128,442 $160,725 23.3% 12,526 -6.3%
Bourbon $120,638 $148,724 23.3% 14,360 -5.4%
Neosho $164,261 $173,656 5.7% 15,904 -3.7%

 

Like Nevada, Missouri, Neosho County tends to rely upon a single large employer for their growth and future prosperity.  Although we do not have access to the gross sales of the one company, I suspect the lack of growth in Neosho County payroll is reflective of the relative success of the one company.

 

Allen County has a 2020 population base that is 1,834 less than Bourbon County, but much stronger payroll numbers.  Despite losing a higher percentage of their population over the last 10 years, their payroll growth kept pace with Bourbon County.  Much of this can be attributed to a larger geography draw for their employee base, as the competing cities in other counties are remote. Additionally, Iola draws from a wider geography for retail sales. Recently, a large Bourbon County employer chose Iola for their expansion over adding additional space in Fort Scott, presumably to tap into a new employment base.

 

It is encouraging that Bourbon County business continues to grow despite our population loss, and housing and infrastructure challenges.  We have a diverse group of strong, independent manufacturers and branch locations of major corporations that bodes well for our future.  We also have a solid group of local retailers and a growing traffic count along 69 Highway as the highway expansion continues, bringing more consumers through Bourbon County.

 

Our city and county governments continue to support the economic development efforts of Bourbon County REDI.  We are intently focused on health care and housing in order to retain our workforce, and give our employers a chance to attract more to facilitate their growth.  These efforts will be augmented by the launch of a Land Bank in our jurisdiction to deal with blighted properties, which has also garnered support from our government entities.  This will go a long way in helping the curb appeal of our communities and giving responsible owners of adjoining properties the respect they are due.

 

Of course, we are always on the lookout for new opportunities to introduce business investors to the overall quality of life that Bourbon County affords.  In the end, it is quality of life that business owners and their employees alike value most.

Area News, Fort Scott

Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation Announces Winner of 22nd  Annual Truck Raffle Drawing   

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From left to right; Bill Fiscus (TVDS CEO), Tricia Campbell (TVDS Special Projects Coordinator), Diane and Jeffrey Brown (prize winners), and Jeff Lassman (Steve Faulkner Ford).

The Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation is proud to announce the winner of the 22nd Annual Friends of Tri-Valley Foundation Truck Raffle Drawing:  Diane Brown of Oregon.  Diane’s ticket was drawn from 1,725 entries on Friday, June 24th at 1:30 pm by TVDS Quality Enhancement Coordinator, Joanna Iden.  Diane was notified immediately and was both surprised and excited to hear that she had won.   Diane and Jeffrey Brown came to Chanute on August 17th to collect her prize.  She is now the proud owner of a 2022 Ford F150 Platinum Edition Truck, purchased from Steve Faulkner Ford in Chanute, KS. 

Diane and Jeffery Brown. Submitted photos.

Thank you to everyone who participated in this year’s raffle drawing.  This year’s raffle drawing raised $18,300 which will go to provide quality and affordable housing as well as aid in the delivery of services for our neighbors with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (I/DD).   Since 2001, the Foundation has built six houses as well as acquired six houses and one duplex.  These thirteen houses are home to 62 individuals with I/DD that reside in the SE Kansas counties of Allen, Bourbon, Chautauqua, Elk, Greenwood, Neosho, Wilson, and Woodson.   The Friends of Tri-Valley is licensed through the State of Kansas for this raffle

Bourbon County, Government

Bourbon County Commission Agenda for August 23

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Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: August 23, 2022
1st District–Nelson Blythe Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District–Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk–Ashley Shelton
MEETING HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM
Call to Order
• Flag Salute
• Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
• Eric Bailey – Road & Bridge Report
• Bob Reed – Jail Update
• Jim Harris – Executive Session KSA 75–4319(b)(4) to discuss data relating to financial affairs or
trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trust, and individual proprietorships
• Justin Meeks – County Counselor Comment
• Susan Bancroft – Chief Financial Officer Comment
• Shane Walker – Chief Information Officer Comment
• Public Comment
• Commission Comment
Justifications for Executive Session:
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 security measures, if the discussion of such matters at an open meeting would jeopardize such security measures.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening in Fort Scott August 19 Newsletter

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott!

August 19th Weekly Newsletter

Get the school year started off in Fort Scott…

share with your friends & family!

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

TROLLEY TOURS,

ON THE HOUR FROM THE CHAMBER!

Friday 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

Saturday 10am, 11am, 12pm, 1pm, 2pm

$6 adults, $4 children 12 & under

50-minute narrated tour of Historic Fort Scott!

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Daily Tours: 10am & 1pm

8/19 ~ Retirement Reception for Ann Stark of Atkins Insurance Agency, 3 E. Wall St., 2-4pm

8/19 ~ Friday Night Concert in the Park, featuring Rick Hite, 7-8pm, Heritage Park Pavilion, 1st and Main, bring a lawn chair due to limited seating.

8/20 ~ Splashpad Golf Tournament, 8am, click here for more info.

8/20 ~ Dragoon Charge for Wreaths Across America, click here for info.

8/20-21 ~ Heartland Showcase Boer Goat Show & Sale, Bourbon County Fairgrounds, see flyer below.

8/25 ~ Chamber Coffee hosted by Bourbon County REDI (Regional Economic Development Inc.) , 8am, 200 S. Main, please enter through east door and go upstairs, elevator available

8/26 ~ FSHS Football Jamboree, click here for more info.

8/31 ~ The 2022 Grant Cycle for the Fort Scott Area Community Foundation is now open through August 31st! If you are affiliated with a qualifying 501c3 organization, consider applying!

The process is all online this year:  https://fsacf.com/nonprofits/grants/

8/31 ~ Bourbon County Job Fair, hosted by the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce and Southeast KANSASWORKS, INC., 10am-2pm, Employers can click here to register a booth.

9/1 ~ Chamber Coffee, Grand Opening & Ribbon Cutting, hosted by Perry’s Pork Rinds & Country Store, 8am, 702 Pine Street, Bronson, Kansas

9/2-9/5 ~ Uniontown Old Settlers Picnic, click here for details!

9/5 ~ FSCC Free Basketball Clinic by FSCC Men’s Basketball, click here for flyer.

9/5 ~ Dale Jackson Memorial Car Show, 11am to 1pm, Uniontown, click here for more info.

9/9-9/10 ~ Fall Town-wide Garage Sale

9/10 ~ Golf Tournament for Tri-Valley Developmental Services

9/17-9/18 ~ Marmaton Massacre Mountain Bike Festival in Gunn Park, click here for flyer.

9/17-9/18 ~ 4×4 Mud Run, click here for flyer.

SAVE THE DATE:

9/23-9/25 ~ 6th Annual Doug Hazelbaker Memorial Calf Roping, Steer Wrestling, Breakaway & Dummy Roping

9/24 ~ FortFest, 4-band music festival, see flyer below.

10/1 ~ Michael Jeffers Memorial Bullriding

10/5 ~ Dare to Dream Women’s Entrepreneurship Event

10/6-10/8 ~ The 19th Annual Gordon Parks Celebration, click here for more info.

_____________

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
620-223-3566
In This Issue
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

The Heartland Showcase National Boer Goat Sale and Show will be happening at the Fairgrounds this weekend. Increased traffic around the fairgrounds, Friday – Sunday.
Housing Survey NOW ACTIVE for Bourbon County
Click graphic below or here to take survey!
Your response is valuable and needed!

Join in on the fun at the Marmaton Massacre event!

FORT SCOTT 4X4 MUD RUN ~ COME OUT AND ENJOY THE SHOW!
Splashpad Golf Tournament Fundraiser at Woodland Hills Enter your team today!

Job Fair being hosted by the Chamber Wed., August 31st!

Employers can click here to register for a booth!
ST. MARY’S TRASH BAGS ON SALE THRU 9/6
COMMUNITY FOUNDATION GRANT APPLICATION OPEN THRU AUGUST 31ST ~ APPLY TODAY IF YOU ARE A QUALIFYING 501C3!
Application process is online only this year,
click graphic below for the website.

Don’t miss out on FortFest2022, Sepetember 24th!
FORT CINEMA SHOW SCHEDULE THIS WEEKEND
…
Obituary

Obituary of Clifford Carpenter

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Clifford Eugene Carpenter, age 66, resident of Liberty, MO, died Friday, August 19, 2022, at Liberty Health and Wellness Nursing Home in Liberty, MO.  He was born March 12, 1956, in Ft. Scott, KS, the son of Chester and Betty Dixon Carpenter.  Clifford retired from Hallmark Greeting Card Distribution Center in Liberty, where he worked as a forklift operator.  He greatly enjoyed treasure hunting at flea markets and dealing with antiques in his spare time.

 

Survivors include his mother, Betty Carpenter, Lamar, MO; 3 brothers, David Carpenter and wife Teresa, Jasper, MO, Norman Carpenter and wife Tonya, Ft. Scott, KS, and Carl Carpenter, Kansas City; and several nieces and nephews.  He was preceded in by his father.

 

Graveside services will be held at 10:00 AM Wednesday, August 24, 2022, in the Deerfield Cemetery, Deerfield, MO.  Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main St., Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Local News