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Uniontown City Council Minutes of the Special Meeting Held on November 27
A Special Meeting on November 27, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 6:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Brad Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting was City Clerk Sally Johnson.
Discuss ordinance regulating council pay – review and discussion of the draft ordinance presented.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to adopt amended Ordinance No. 203, an ordinance establishing compensation for members of the governing body of the city of Uniontown, Kansas.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance, job duties, and benefits of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:40PM
Clerk Johnson called in at 7:30PM. Open meeting resumed at 7:40PM. Council asked Clerk Johnson to gather information about health insurance coverages/plans and costs from KMIT, Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce, and Kansas Rural Water Association.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0 to table insurance benefit discussion until December 12, 2023 meeting
Moved by Hartman, Second by Kelly, Approved 4-0, to adjourn at 8:43PM
Minutes of the Uniontown City Council Meeting on November 14
The Regular Council Meeting on November 14, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 7:00PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Danea Esslinger, Josh Hartman, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Zach Snyder and Stevie Amos (Thomas Construction), Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, City Superintendent Bobby Rich and City Clerk Sally Johnson.
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
Placemaking Project – bid opening – this is for 34’ X 65’ X 6” pickleball court, 2 bids received, Rogers & Sons Concrete, $18,430 and Marbery Excavation & Hauling, $20,650. Bid tabulation attached.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept bid from Rogers & Sons Concrete in the amount of $18,430
Clerk Johnson stated that acknowledgement for the BCBS Pathways Grant of $10,000 was received, needs signed, and returned.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to authorize Sally Johnson to sign the BCBS Pathways Grant acknowledgement and return
Pond Project – bid opening – this for Phase II of riprapping bank, 3 bids received, Rogers & Sons Concrete, $13,500; Marbery Excavation & Hauling, $6,680; and Thomas Construction Inc, $28,024. Bid tabulation attached.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to accept bid from Marbery Excavation & Hauling in the amount of $6,680
Clerk Johnson has ordered/received weed barrier. She ordered one designed to go under driveways this time.
CITIZENS REQUEST
None
FINANCIAL REPORT
Treasurer Bolinger present the October 2023 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $395,312.22, Receipts $37,931.52, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $27,043.25, Checking Account Closing Balance $393,424.49. Bank Statement Balance $399,580.44, including Checking Account Interest of $84.55, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $6,155.95, Reconciled Balance $393,424.49. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,433.01, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,939.88, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,710.66, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $480,508.04. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $798.19, and Utility CDs $682.57 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,480.76. Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of October 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $562.50, Expenditures $562.50, Ending Balance $0. October Transfers from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,402.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $250.00; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00, to Capital Improvement-Streets $750.00; from Gas Utility Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $6,250.00; from General Fund to Capital Improvement-Streets $2,500.00; for Total Transfers of $12,776.00. Net Loss for the month of October $1,887.73, Year-to-Date Net Income $49,872.52. Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $100,111.61 (81.9%), Expenditures $94,509.42 (59.0%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $31,115.85 (84.4%), Expenditures $25,225.57 (61.3%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $112,721.15 (72.0%), Expenditures $111,228.80 (49.4%); General Fund YTD Revenue $156,439.58 (104.5%), Expenditures $133,070.97 (71.8%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $8,152.71 (109.3%), Expenditures $6,183.82 (52.9%). The November 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $185,122.07 were presented which includes invoice for street resurfacing.
CONSENT AGENDA
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0, to approve Consent Agenda as amended:
- Minutes of October 10, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
- Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 7:55.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:20.
Clerk Johnson called in at 8:00, out at 8:15.
Motion by Stewart, Second by Hartman, Approved 3-0 to extend executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel matters exception, KSA 4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance and job duties of non-elected personnel, the open meeting to resume at 8:52.
Johnson called in at 8:25, out at 8:52. Open meeting resumed at 8:52. Council asked if schedule a special meeting for executive session for non-elected personnel could they also include discussion of the council pay ordinance. Yes, they can. They would like to have meal provided for special meeting.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to schedule a special meeting for November 27, 6PM, to dicuss ordinance regulating council pay and executive session for non-elected personnel exception.
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
City Superintendent Rich reported that the incoming water valve is not closing completely. He is currently shutting off the master meter when the pump is not running. He has replaced the solenoid which was also leaking. Can’t find anyone to work on the leaking valve. We can order a new one like we currently have or we can order a different valve but would possibly not be the same size and would cost more to replace. Either valve would probably have a 4-6 week delivery.
Motion ;by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to order new valve like existing valve from Mid America Valve
Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 404 Washington has started construction. 102 Franklin received letter on 10/31 and have started piling up dead tree/brush. 201 Fulton letter was sent to attorney handling the foreclosure. The attorney was to notify the lender and/or owner to address the issue. After discussion, due to the time of year and other properties in town with ditches not mowed, City will not pursue this until spring.
Clerk Johnson reported on information received from KDHE on the Lead Service Line Inventory and a scheduled public hearing on the Lead and Copper Rule Revision Rule Implementation in Chanute on December 5, 7PM.
KMGA May 1, 2024 through April 20, 2025 Projected Gas Volumes were received.
Motion by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0 to accept KMGA proposed Projected Gas Schedule for May 1, 2024 through April 30, 2025
Johnson also reported on the KMU Regional Meeting and the KSGFOA Fall conference.
KMU is hosting a virtual 2024 Legislative & Regulatory Outlook on December 1, 10AM. She has registered to attend.
COUNCIL REPORT
Councilman Ervin – absent
Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing
Councilman Hartman – conveyed his appreciation for the City and staff during his time on the council. He will be unable to attend the December meeting, so said goodbye tonight.
Councilwoman Kelly – absent
Councilman Stewart – nothing
Mayor Jurgensen – has been receiving reports of dogs at large in the 300 block of Washington St. He will ask Animal Control to followup.
OLD BUSINESS
Street project – work is completed. Mayor Jurgensen and City Superintendent Rich met with contractor to discuss some areas of concern. Work is warranted until October 27, 2024. Contractor will come in to repair areas of concern next summer while working in the area.
Mural Grant – we have received the third and final payment from grant.
NEW BUSINESS
Council Pay Ordinance – tabled until special meeting on November 27, 2023.
Procurement Policy –
Motion by Hartman, Second by Esslinger, Approved 3-0 to table discussion of current procurement policy to the December 12, 2023 meeting.
Moved by Hartman, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:57PM
Uniontown City Council Meets on December 12 at 8 p.m.
The regular meeting of the Uniontown City Council will meet on December 12 at 8 p.m.
ROLL CALL:
___ Jess Ervin ___ Danea Esslinger ___ Josh Hartman ___ Amber Kelly ___ Bradley Stewart
SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS
404 Washington repair followup
USD 235, Vance Eden –
CITIZENS REQUESTS
FINANCIAL REPORT
Charlene Bolinger – Financial reports
APPROVE CONSENT AGENDA
- Minutes of November 14, 2023 Regular Council Meeting and November 27, 2023 Special Meeting
- Treasurers Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables
DEPARTMENT REPORTS
Superintendent: Bobby Rich
Sewer issue at 100 Second St –
Water valve update –
Water Meter Replacement Plan –
Codes Enforcement: Doug Coyan
Clerk Report: Sally Johnson
SOS donation request
Zoom subscription renewal
LSLI update
LKM Economic Development Survey and services/resources
COUNCIL & COMMITTEE REPORTS
Councilman Ervin –
Councilwoman Esslinger –
Councilman Hartman –
Councilwoman Kelly –
Councilman Stewart–
Mayor Jurgensen –
OLD BUSINESS
Placemaking Project –
Pond Project –
NEW BUSINESS
2024 CMB off premises renewal – Union Station
Procurement Policy –
Financial/Utility Software –
Employee Benefits – Health Insurance –
ADJOURN Time ____________ Moved
Attachments:
12-23 Fin & UB software – Tyler Tech
12-23 Fin & UB software – Munibilling
Jingle Bell Holiday Mart is Saturday December 9 at the Fairgrounds
The Bourbon County Fair Association’s 3rd Annual Jingle Bell Holiday Mart is this Saturday, December 9 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Emelia Whiteacker is the organizer of the event for the fair board that raises funds for maintaining the fairgrounds year-round, said Addie Foster, one of the vendors.
Foster is a sister to Whiteacker and they have spice products to sell in their M M Flavor booth.
Leanna Leatherman, who had organized the event in the past, died earlier this year and the fair board asked Whiteacker to take over the duties, Foster said.
The event is in two buildings: the Cloverleaf Event Center and the Yaeger Building on the Bourbon County Fairgrounds. The Yaeger Building is adjacent to the poultry building and the Cloverleaf is where meals are served during the fair.
There will be food, clothing, crafts, and other possible Christmas present items to purchase.
In addition, Care to Share, a local helping organization for cancer survivors, will have pancakes, biscuits and gravy, and a baked potato bar available for purchase in the Cloverleaf Event Center.
Housed in the Yaeger Building will be Mrs. Claus’s Kitchen featuring: Mrs. Claus’s Coffee Shop, Hamilton’s Artisan Bakery, Donna Jo’s Homemade Fudge, Peace Acres Freeze Dried Candy, and Mmm Flavor Shop.
The Cloverleaf Event Center will have vendors: Locust Hill Lamancha Goat Milk Products, Sally Kraft, Tessie’s Trendy Nails-Color Street, Flying P Ranch, Write On, Bear’s Nectar LLC, Mary Kay-Lauren Wagner, Scentsy-Laken Brittain, Happy Little Candle Company, All Things Cute and Cuddle, On the Farm, Kitty’s Kitchen, Turkey Forge, Gyp and Jo, Cattywampus Creations, and Art by SueP.
Blue Dog Wine Co. will also be in the Cloverleaf Event Center with their locally made wines.
“There are more vendors this year with many hand-crafted items under $10 for the tight budgets,” Whiteacker said.
Death Notice of Velma Russell
Velma Jean Russell, age 94, resident of Emporia, KS, formerly of Fort Scott, KS, died Wednesday, December 6, 2023, in Emporia.
Funeral services for Velma Russell will be held at 11:30 AM Friday, December 15th, at the Cheney Witt Chapel with burial following in the U. S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott.
The family will receive friends from 10:30 AM until service time Friday at the funeral home.
Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook
Agenda for the USD 234 Board of Education on December 11
Unified School District 234
424 South Main
Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697
620-223-0800 Fax 620-223-2760
DESTRY BROWN
Superintendent
BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING
December 11, 2023 – 5:30 P.M.
PUBLIC AGENDA
1.0 Call Meeting to Order David Stewart, President
2.0 Flag Salute
3.0 Approval of the Official Agenda (Action Item)
4.0 Approval of the Consent Agenda (Action Item)
4.1 Board Minutes
- 11/13/23 Board Minutes
4.2 Financials-Cash Flow Report
4.3 Check Register
4.4 Payroll – November 17, 2023 – $2,058,098.00
4.5 Activity Fund accounts
4.6 USD 234 Gifts
5.0 Open Enrollment Hearing (Information/Discussion)
5.1 Open Enrollment Hearing (Action Item)
5.2 Hear from Patrons
5.3 Close Hearing (Action Item)
6.0 Recognitions (Information/Discussion Item)
6.1 Student Recognition
6.2 Employee Recognition
6.3 Board Member Recognition
7.0 Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)
7.1 Superintendent’s Report
7.2 Assistant Superintendent’s Report
7.3 Special Education Director’s Report
7.4 Finance Director’s Report
8.0 Old Business
8.1 Enter Executive Session – Purchase of Property
8.2 Exit Executive Session
8.3 Contract on New Preschool Building (Action Item)
8.4 Presentation – Hight Jackson – Architect (Information/Discussion)
8.5 Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas Foundation, Inc Grant (Action Item)
9.0 Public Forum
10.0 Other Business – Personnel Matters
10.1 Enter Executive Session – Personnel Matters (Action Item)
10.2 Exit Executive Session.
10.3 Approval of Personnel Report (Action Item)
11.0 Adjourn Meeting David Stewart, President
The Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office Daily Reports December 8
Minutes of the FSCC Board of Trustees for November 20
FORT SCOTT COMMUNITY COLLEGE
Minutes of the Board of Trustees Meeting
November 20, 2023
PRESENT: John Bartelsmeyer, Dave Elliott, Jim Fewins, Kirk Hart, Bryan Holt, and Robert Nelson
ALSO PRESENT: Jason Kegler-President, Juley McDaniel-Board Clerk, faculty, staff
Chairman Bartelsmeyer called the meeting to order at 5:30 pm in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall.
COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR: Chairman Bartelsmeyer recognized Ronda Bailey and Doug Ropp as newly
elected Board members.
COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC: None.
A motion was made by Nelson, seconded by Elliott, and carried by unanimous vote to amend the agenda by moving
Executive session immediately after approval of the consent agenda, revising Item B to read Consideration of FSCC
Foundation Funds, and adding Consideration of Property Negotiations as Item D under Action/Discussion Items.
CONSENT AGENDA: A motion was made by Hart, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to
approve the consent agenda as amended.
EXECUTIVE SESSION: A motion was made by Nelson, seconded by Holt, and carried by unanimous vote to
adjourn to executive session pursuant to K.S.A. 75-4319 for ten minutes beginning at 5:36 pm for the purpose of
discussing non-elected personnel as it relates to administrative contracts, with no action expected to follow. The
Board invited Dr. Kegler into executive session.
OPEN SESSION: A motion was made by Hart, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote to return to
open session at 5:47 pm.
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS:
A. A motion was made by Fewins seconded by Hart and carried by unanimous vote to approve the Perkins Grant purchases as specified.
B. A motion was made by Nelson seconded by Fewins and carried by unanimous vote to accept FSCC Foundation funds as permitted by law.
C. A motion was made by Fewins seconded by Elliott and carried by unanimous vote to approve the healthcare insurance renewal.
D. A motion was made by Elliott seconded by Holt and carried by unanimous vote to approve the Perkins Grant purchases as specified.
ADMINISTRATIVE UPDATES: The Board reviewed and heard updates from Miami County, Gordon Parks Museum, Instruction, Finance and Operations, Athletics, and Student Services, and President.
ADJOURNMENT: There being no further business to come before the Trustees, a motion to adjourn was made at
6:52 pm by Elliott, seconded by Fewins, and carried by unanimous vote.
Agenda for the FSCC Board of Trustees Meeting on December 11
Board of Trustees
Fort Scott Community College
2108 S. Horton
Fort Scott, KS 66701
The Board of Trustees of Fort Scott Community College will meet in regular session on Monday, December 11, 2023. The meeting will be held in Cleaver-Burris-Boileau Hall at Fort Scott Community College.
5:30 p.m. Regular monthly Board meeting
THE AGENDA
5:30 ROLL CALL, 3
PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
CALL TO ORDER, 4
A. Comments from the Chair, 4
B. Comments from the Public, 4
CONSENT AGENDA, 5
A. Approval of Agenda, 5
B. Approval of Minutes of previous Regular Board Meeting conducted on November 20, 2023, 6
C. Approval of Bills and Claims, 7
D. Approval of Personnel Actions, 5
ACTION/DISCUSSION ITEMS, 18
A. Approval of 2024-25 Academic Scholarships, 18
B. Approval of Sale of Property at 902 S. Horton, 20
C. Approval of Final Installment Lease Purchase Payment to CHCSEK, 21
ITEMS FOR REVIEW, 22
REPORTS, 25
A. Administrative Updates, 25
EXECUTIVE SESSION, 30
ADJOURNMENT, 311
UPCOMING CALENDAR DATES:
• December 11, 2023 (Changed due to winter break) Board Meeting
• December 15, 2023 – January 3, 2024 Winter Break, Campus Closed
• January 15, 2024 MLK, Jr. Day, Campus Closed
• January 22, 2024 (Changed due to MLK, Jr. Day) Board Meeting
• February 19, 2024 Board Meeting
• March 11 – 15, 2024 Spring Break, Campus Closed
• March 18, 2024 Board Meeting
• April 15, 2024 Board Meeting
• May 20, 2024 Board Meeting
• May 27, 2024 Memorial Day, Campus Closed
• June 17, 2024 Board Meeting
Sincerely,
John Bartelsmeyer, Chair
Jason Kegler, President
FSCC’s vision for the future is to support “Students First, Community Always” through a
central focus on teaching and learning; advancing strong, innovative programs and
departments; maximizing and leveraging opportunities; initiating efficient and effective
processes; and developing the region’s workforce.2
ROLL CALL
_____ John Bartelsmeyer
_____ Jim Fewins
_____ Dave Elliott
_____ Kirk Hart
_____ Bryan Holt
_____ Robert Nelson3
CALL TO ORDER
A. COMMENTS FROM THE CHAIR
B. COMMENTS FROM THE PUBLIC
CONSENT AGENDA
A. APPROVAL OF AGENDA
B. APPROVAL OF MINUTES OF PREVIOUS MEETINGS
Attached are the minutes of the Regular Board Meeting conducted on November 20, 2023.
C. APPROVAL OF BILLS and CLAIMS
Attached is the Bills and Claims Report.
D. APPROVAL OF PERSONNEL ACTIONS
1) Separations
a) Kris Mengarelli, CTEC Director, effective November 7, 2023
b) Marianne Culbertson, Director of Business Operations, effective November 24, 2023
c) Iban Gama, Regional Recruiter – Louisiana MEP, effective November 30, 2023
d) Alexandrya Morillo, Head Cheer/Dance Coach, effective December 7, 2023
e) Julie Eichenberger, Vice President of Finance and Operations, effective December 31, 2023
RECOMMENDATION: It is recommended that the Consent Agenda items be approved
To view the complete packet:
Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes Newletter December 2023
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December 7, 2023 Volume 14 |
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WISHING YOU WARMTH AND JOYTHIS HOLIDAY SEASON
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Dear Friends, As the holiday season approaches, we want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to each of you who has visited and supported the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes throughout the year. May this festive season be a tapestry of joy and cheer for you and your loved ones. Your commitment to our mission has made a significant impact, and we are grateful for the positive change we have achieved together. As we reflect on the past year, we look forward with excitement to the opportunities the future holds. Thank you for being an essential part of our efforts. We wish you and your loved ones a holiday season filled with warmth, happiness, and the joy of giving. Merry Christmas |
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Lowell Milken Park was adorned with the enchanting glow of festive lights during the inaugural Christmas on the Bricks event in downtown Fort Scott. The heartwarming sight welcomed over 100 visitors as we remained open late Friday night, spreading joy and holiday cheer and sharing stories of unsung heroes. Lowell Milken Park took center stage and played a large part in this inaugural holiday event. |
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Discovery Award Updates |
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Attention, educators working on the Discovery Award project with your students! Brace yourselves for some fantastic updates: This year’s Discovery Award is better than ever, offering nearly $25,000 in prizes for your talented students! For any guidance, assistance, or questions, contact Norm Conard at [email protected] or Megan Felt at [email protected]. Get ready to witness the incredible projects you and your students will create this year! |
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Discovery Award Project Spotlight |
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The Outstanding Middle School Project in the 2023 Discovery Award Competition. One of the award winners was Rehan Mathew Koshy from Edison Regional Gifted Center, Chicago, IL. Check out Rehan Mathew’s moving documentary, Andrée de Jongh: Faster than a Comet, at https://bit.ly/Andree_de_Jongh Stay tuned for more incredible award-winning projects coming your way! |
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ARTEFFECT Updates |
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“StorytellingThrough Art” Online SessionWednesday, December 13 | 4:00-5:15 PM (Pacific Time) All educators are invited to join this session on “Storytelling Through Art,” led by award-winning educator Brad LeDuc. Explore strategies to support your students in their visual storytelling about the Unsung Heroes. Attendees to the live session will receive a Certificate of Participation. All registrants will receive the lesson plan and session recording. Free to join—registration required. |
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The 2023-2024 ARTEFFECT visual art competition is now underway and open through May 1, 2024. Middle and high school students are invited to creatively interpret the story of an Unsung Hero through an original visual artwork accompanied by an impact statement. Learn more here! |
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Fellows News and Updates |
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We had the privilege of hosting the First Place winners of the 2023 Discovery Award competition at the LMC! 11th graders Paige Franzen, Kadence Huck, and Callahan Levi from Nashua-Plainfield High School in Nashua, Iowa, claimed the $2,500 First Prize award. They were accompanied by their teacher, 2022 LMC Fellow Suzy Turner. During their visit, these talented students lent their expertise to assist us in developing a unique new exhibit honoring their Unsung Hero, Dr. Christine Grant. Their award-winning documentary beautifully captures the life and impactful journey of Dr. Christine Grant, a trailblazer for equity in women’s sports programs. She left an indelible mark as a legendary women’s field hockey coach and the first director of women’s intercollegiate athletics at the University of Iowa. Congratulations again to Paige, Kadence, and Callahan! Your achievements are not only commendable but also an inspiration to future generations. Thank you for sharing the impactful story of Dr. Christine Grant with the world. The new exhibit panel is made possible by a grant from Kansas Commerce and Kansas Tourism. We look forward to unveiling the new panel in the summer of 2024. |
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LMC News and Updates |
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With a grant from Evergy, we brought Operation Wildlife to the Lowell Milken Center in celebration of our unsung environmentalist hero, Jacob Valentine. When it gets warmer, we plan to have a program featuring a bald eagle in Lowell Milken Park. Executive Director Norm Conard said, “This was one of the best programs of the year! We had a full house for each presentation, and those who attended fell in love with these beautiful creatures.” |
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We’re excited to announce the launch of a new segment in our newsletter, The Ripple Effect. This space is dedicated to sharing the remarkable stories and heartfelt experiences of teachers and students whose lives have been touched by Unsung Hero Projects. Through personal reflections, anecdotes, and insightful conversations, we will explore how Unsung Hero Projects have sowed the seeds of change, fostering a spirit of innovation, empathy, and resilience. Get ready to be moved by stories of hope, growth, and lasting impact. |
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Here’s what Lana had to say: Being an LMC fellow and integrating unsung hero projects into my curriculum has profoundly shaped my teaching philosophy and style. It’s like adding a splash of color to my teaching canvas! It has encouraged my students and me to dive into unique historical perspectives (ones often sidelined in textbooks), which I am able to share with my class and as an advisor for National History Day. Equally impactful was the emphasis on research and writing skills. I’ve witnessed my students evolve into adept researchers, crafting articulate narratives. This fellowship transformed my classroom into a vibrant learning space where historical exploration is not just a lesson but a thrilling journey, fostering curiosity and critical thinking in every student. The unsung hero projects make history come alive, helping my students connect the dots and write compelling stories they wouldn’t normally explore. Being at an art school has also given them the space to shape their craft while still being engaged in social sciences in a unique way. I love learning about the different topics along with the students, nudging them to push themselves outside their comfort zones and really make a connection between their unsung heroes and themselves. Seeing their accomplishments and their pride in themselves, or their random emails at 11:30 pm saying, “Mrs. S, I found someone to interview, and I’m so excited because they emailed me back!” only fuels the excitement for me. When I receive emails from parents saying they’ve seen growth and a positive difference in their child while working on the project, I know I am doing what I was meant to do. Last year, one of my students was awarded an Honorable Mention from LMC. I gently nudged her to use her voice and performing skills to share her story. The fact that I have a platform to give students a voice and choice in how they present their research is something I do not take for granted. When I asked her what the most memorable experience of her journey was, here’s what she said: “The moment I realized the direction of my project was when you told me to focus on the story I wanted to tell: the Korean American business owners. I recognized then that telling one person’s story could help me connect the stories around them. The amount of effort and time you dedicated to revising my project is something I deeply appreciate. Through your coaching, I was able to explore so many topics of Asian American history that I would not be able to learn through the school curriculum. The Lum v Rice case left such a significant impact on my understanding of Asian American history, and the dedication of Katherine Lum has inspired me so many times.” Integrating unsung hero projects into my curriculum made history come alive, helping my students connect the dots and write compelling stories. It’s like watching a flower bloom – their research and writing skills have blossomed. Thanks to this experience, my classroom is a place of excitement and curiosity, where every day is an adventure into the past. Students develop empathy and compassion through the research project, whether they know it or not. |
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Copyright (C) 2023 Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes. All rights reserved. Our mailing address is: |
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, Happy Hanukkah 
, and Happy Holidays 
EXCITING DISCOVERY AWARD NEWS FOR EDUCATORS & STUDENTS! 
But hold on—there’s more! We’re thrilled to introduce new awards exclusively for the amazing teachers guiding and inspiring our young learners! 
Stay tuned for more updates and inspiration as we embark on this exciting Discovery Award journey together.
Gordon Parks Museum Receives Portrait of Gordon Parks
Fort Scott, Kan. Dec.7, 2023 – A portrait of Gordon Parks painted by Elliott Coke O’Neal of Lawrenceville, Ga., was donated recently to the Gordon Parks Museum.
O’Neal rendered the image in 2009 during an art class at Georgia State College in Atlanta, where he
was a sophomore. He had given the portrait to his great-grandmother, Laverne Person, in Fort Scott the year it was finished.
O’Neal’s grandparents, Arthur Greene and Janice Person-Greene, originally from Fort Scott, who now reside in Olathe, visited the museum on the campus of Fort Scott Community College to formally donate the painting on O’Neal’s behalf.
For information on the Gordon Parks Museum, contact Kirk Sharp, executive director, 620) 223-2700,
ext. 5850, or at [email protected].
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Janice Person-Greene (left) donating the painting on behalf of their grandson, Elliott Coke O’ Neal.
Photo take by Arthur Greene.
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