Area News, Fair, K-State Extension, Kansas, Youth

Southwind’s 4-H Crops/Weeds Id Participants Move Up at State Fair

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Southwind District 4-H’ers participate in the Kansas State Fair State 4-H Crops/Weeds ID Contest on September 9, 2023, in Hutchinson, Kansas. Three of the four team members moved up from the Intermediate Division to the Senior Division to form a full Senior Team. Results were 3rd Place Team, Carly Kramer 8th Individual, Camryn Wille 15th Individual, Kason Botts 16th Individual, and Henry Kramer 18th Individual.

Pictured are (left to right; front to back): Kason Botts, Henry Kramer, Casey Diver (coach), Carly Kramer, and Camryn Wille.

Fort Scott, Government

Amended Agenda for FS City Commission Meeting Today

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NOTICE OF AND AGENDA FOR REGULAR
MEETING OF FORT SCOTT CITY COMMISSION
CITY HALL COMMISSION ROOM – 123 SOUTH MAIN ST.
September 19, 2023 – 6:00 P.M.
I. Roll Call:
T. VanHoecke K. Harrington E. Woellhof M. Guns M. Wells
II. Pledge of Allegiance & Invocation: Led by M. Wells
III. Approval of Agenda:
IV. Consent Agenda:
A. Approval of Minutes of the Regular Meeting of September 5, 2023
B. Approval of Appropriation Ordinance 1344-A — $469,395.66
C. Request to Pay – Earles Engineering and Inspection – $36,194.50
1. Invoice #16789 – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Inspection – $23,194.50
2. Invoice #16784 – 21-303 – WWTP – System Design – Phase III – $13,000.00
D. Request to Pay – Stifel, Nicolaus & Co., Inc. – Financial Advisory Fee – General Obligation Bonds, Series 2023 – Issue Record #64784 – $12,312.50.
E. August Financials
F. Request to Approve Change Order No. 2 – 2022 CDBG Sanitary Sewer Project – Bennett, Inc. – Increase of $63,295.00
V. Public Comment: Sign up required. Comments on any topic not on agenda and limited to five (5) minutes per person, at the Commission’s discretion.
VI. Old Business:
A. Consideration to Accept USDA Rural Development Grant for $33,000.00 –
D. Bruner and Emily Diebolt – Storm Sirens
B. Consideration to Accept (2) Grants from Timken Foundation of Canton –
1. City of Fort Scott – Automated External Defibrillators – $13,500.00
2. Fort Scott Fire Department – UTV – $21,500.00
C. Consideration of MOU with Bourbon County Health In All Policies Task Force – Tabled until September 19, 2023, for response to request to have contract language amended. History: Tabled July 25, 2023, August 1, 2023, defeated motion on August 15, 2023.
D. Consideration of Resolution No. 13-2023 – Resolution and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure – 1001 W. 2 nd St.
Tabled to September 19, 2023, for extension to gather more information.
E. Consideration of Resolution No. 12-2023 – Resolution and Notice of Hearing with Reference to Alleged Unsafe and Dangerous Structure – 1801 W. Wall St.
Tabled to September 19, 2023, for extension to gather information regarding owners and taxes being paid.
VII. Appearances:
A. Lake Fort Scott Residents – Potential lake improvements during low level
B. Justin Meeks – Golf Course property update
C. Robert Coon – Housing development
VIII. Public Hearing: 2023 Budget Amendment
IX. New Business:
A. Consideration of Purchase of new WILO mixer for bio basin from IPS Process
Solutions for $25,244.35 – S. Flater
B. Consideration of Contractors’ Licensing Program – N. Nation
C. Consideration of Project Inspection – Sanitary Sewer Relocation for the Infantry Substation – J. Dickman
D. Consideration of Relocation and Reimbursement Agreement – Evergy – Fort Scott Infantry Substation Project – J. Dickman – Tabled from September 5,
2023, to propose a project inspection inclusion to Evergy.
X. Reports and Comments:
A. City Manager Comments:
B. Engineering Comments:
C. Commissioners Comments:
T. VanHoecke –
K. Harrington –
E. Woellhof –
M. Guns –
M. Wells –
D. City Attorney Comments:
XI. Executive Session:
XI. Adjournment:

Fort Scott, Government

Design Review Advisory Board Meets on Sept. 28

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Design Review Advisory Board Meeting

When: September, 28th

Time: 4:00 pm

Location: City Hall

Topic for discussion: Certificate of Appropriateness for signage outside of 12 N. Main in Fort Scott submitted for consideration. The meeting is open to the public and the recording is available to watch on YouTube after the meeting is held.

Submitted by:

Mary Wyatt

Community Development Director

City of Fort Scott

Obituary

Obituary of William “Robin” Reeves, Jr.

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William Robert “Robin” Reeves, Jr., age 86, resident of Stockton, MO, died Thursday, September 14, 2023, in Stockton.  Robin was born in Albany, MO, to William and Winifred Reeves. He graduated from North Kansas City High School, becoming a dedicated member of the class of 1955.

Additionally, Robin served his country in the US Army as a member of the esteemed 101st Airborne division.

In 1978, Robin and his family made their home in Fort Scott, KS, and he wasted no time integrating into the Fort Scott community.  He established a successful welding supply business and was deeply committed to his involvement in local government. In 2006, he relocated to Stockton, Missouri.

 

One of Robin’s greatest joys in life was spending time at the lake, where he could often be found pulling skiers, tubers, and adventurous riders on the infamous banana. His enthusiasm and even his frustrations for these activities brought laughter and joy to countless friends who joined him throughout these memorable summers.

 

Robin also had a profound love for coaching American Legion baseball.  Robin’s players held a special place in his heart, and their successes on and off the field were a source of immense pride.

 

While family held a special place in Robin’s heart, being a grandparent was his most cherished role.  Well-known for his sharp wit, sense of humor, and wide, infectious smile, Robin was a joy to be around.  He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

 

He is survived by his wife, C. Delight Reeves; his daughters and their spouses Amy and Dan Kelly, Rachel and Chris Pruitt, and Carrie and Whitney Archer; grandchildren Will, Jack, Kate, Brooklyn, Sydney, Grayce, Ruby, Dalton, and Holden; along with several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his parents and sister, Betty Bradshaw.

 

Rev. Dusty Drake will conduct memorial services at 12:30 PM Friday, September 22nd, at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Interment will follow at 1:30 PM in the U.S. National Cemetery, Fort Scott.

The family will receive friends from 11:30 AM until service time at the funeral home.

Memorials are suggested to Care to Share and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

 

Kansas

Introducing Gravel Kansas: A Cycling Initiative that Redefines Adventure and Connection

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Gravel Kansas is thrilled to announce the official launch of its innovative cycling initiative, dedicated to crafting unforgettable gravel cycling routes across the picturesque
landscapes of The State That Made Gravel Famous©.

This exciting venture is returning to gravel roots by merging the thrill of gravel riding with the power of storytelling to foster a deep
connection between cyclists and the remarkable places they traverse.

At the heart of Gravel Kansas is a commitment to celebrating the rich heritage, culture, and stories that define the state. Through a meticulously curated selection of gravel routes, cyclists
will embark on journeys that weave through historic towns, rolling prairies, and breathtaking vistas. Each route serves as a gateway to discovery, leading riders to hidden gems and immersing them in the tapestry of Kansas’ diverse landscapes.

“We are thrilled to introduce Gravel Kansas to cyclists around the world,” said LeLan Dains, Founding Chair of Gravel Kansas. “Our initiative is all about forging a profound bond between
people, places, and stories. With every pedal stroke, cyclists will experience the beauty, history, and character of Kansas in an entirely new way.”

This project wouldn’t be possible without funding support from Kansas Tourism. For more information about Gravel Kansas and to explore the inaugural routes, please visit gravelks.com.
Follow Gravel Kansas on Facebook for updates, stories, and exciting cycling content.

About Gravel Kansas:
Gravel Kansas is a pioneering cycling initiative that creates iconic gravel routes across the picturesque landscapes of Kansas. Combining the thrill of gravel cycling with the power of
storytelling, Gravel Kansas aims to foster a deep connection between cyclists and the remarkable places they explore. Through meticulously curated routes and engaging narratives,
Gravel Kansas celebrates the heritage, culture, and stories that define the state.

For more
information, visit gravelks.com.

Opinion

Letter to the Editor: Pete Allen

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When We Stopped the Bleeding and the Value of One “NO” Vote

This discussion appeared in Fort Scott Biz on December 21, 2020, as then finance director Susan Bancroft was leading the effort to further deplete funding for our sewer system infrastructure.

As Bancroft here within states, transfers from the sewer funds had been ongoing since 1980 and accounted for “10-13% of our budget, which conceivably could have drained $12,000,000 from our funds for repairs, maintenance, and replacement of our sewage system, during that time frame, and leaving it in shambles, as evidenced by our current crisis at the plant, and in danger of losing our federal permit to dump treated sewage into the Marmaton River.

The issue was soundly defeated by the voters and since 2020 the transfers have stopped, allowing us to make needed improvements on our plant and distribution system, without any “effects on quality-of-life amenities or public safety concerns”.

Since 2020 we have kept millions of dollars of sewer revenue to be used for what it was collected for.

Bancroft further stated:

“The Fort Scott City Commission is discussing a charter ordinance that will be voted on in a special election on Jan. 5, 2021”.

“Early in the year, Commissioner Pete Allen pointed out that past administrations had been illegally making transfers to the General Fund based on City Ordinance 2842 adopted in 1982,” Bancroft said.

“Bancroft followed up during a regular commission meeting agreeing that the local ordinance essentially states all funds ‘shall’ stay in the sewer fund. (shall means must). Research done also showed that transfers from the sewer fund to the general fund had been made dating back to 1980 according to audited financial statements, she said”.

“During the August 18, 2020 commission meeting, the commission voted 4-1 to approve Charter Ordinance 31 which would allow for transfers to other funds,” Bancroft said. “A petition was filed on October 5th with the County Clerk to call an election so that the voters can decide whether the ordinance shall take effect. The commission had 30 days (November 5th) to decide whether to have an election or rescind the ordinance. The commission chose to move forward with the election. The election is required to be held within 90 days of October 5th and is scheduled for January 5, 2021.”

Bancroft went on to state:

“No transfers are scheduled in the sewer fund for 2020 or 2021 with the budget changes presented to the commission on October 20, 2020. These changes required a 10-13% reduction in the general fund budget across all departments which results in $300,000 less to operate”.

“The budget is tight, and any emergency or annual inflation costs could affect quality of life amenities or public safety services”.

My comments:

  • For the past four years I have been calling for water and sewer master plans, only to be told “we are working on it”. It is time!
  • In 2020 the commission was wrong, as well as finance director.
  • One “no” vote righted a wrong and has started a movement toward infrastructure improvements in Fort Scott.

 

Pete Allen

 

 

Bourbon County, Church news, Food

Blessing Closet Open at Uniontown Baptist Church

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First Missionary Baptist Church of Uniontown is located at the intersection of Maple Road and Hwy. 3 at 100 Fifth Street.
The Uniontown First Missionary Baptist Church (FMBC)has started a new service to their community.
“FMBC is a generous supporter of missions and we strive to
find opportunities to assist those in our community and beyond,” said Mission Board Chairwoman Marci Williams. “Hebrews 13:16 says ‘And do not forget to do good and share  with others, for which sacrifices God is pleased.’ The  current food pantry (was) located inside the church and (was) open one evening per month and by appointment.”
The church realized this was not convenient for everyone.
Beginning on September 15, the outside pantry, named the Blessing Closet, is available to the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

 

The Blessing Closet is located in the alley on the east side of the church at 100 Fifth Street, Uniontown, behind this white door.
“This will be located on the east side of the church in the alley and can be accessed from an outside entrance anytime night or day.  We are hopeful this will benefit our community and increase our outreach efforts,” Williams said.
The church is located at 100 Fifth Street (also known as Maple Road in the county) at the intersection with Hwy. 3 on the town’s west side.
Food products such as canned goods, and boxed mixes (cake, Hamburger and Tuna Helper, etc.) will be in the closet.
In addition, the church believes there is a need to put personal care items in the Blessing Closet.
The contents of the Blessing Closet.
Personal care items such as deodorant, feminine hygiene products, shampoo, brushes, toilet paper, paper towels, soap, washcloths, and some laundry products.
“Motion lights will be located both inside and outside the closet for those who visit after dark,” she said.
The Blessing Closet is funded by our church through monthly offerings,” she said. “Many in our church have brought this project to completion.”
“Anyone in the area is welcome to utilize the Blessing Closet,” she said. “If  additional assistance is needed, please contact FMBC at 620-224-7438.”
The banner can be seen on Maple Road on the north side of the church.
Bourbon County, Government

Unapproved Minutes of the Uniontown City Council on Sept. 12

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CITY OF UNIONTOWN

UNIONTOWN, KS  66779

SEPTEMBER 12, 2023 REVENUE NEUTRAL RATE HEARING FOLLOWED BY BUDGET HEARING, FOLLOWED BY REGULAR COUNCIL MEETING MINUTES

The Regular Council Meeting on September 12, 2023 at Uniontown City Hall, was called to order at 6:48PM by Mayor Jurgensen.  Council members present were Jess Ervin, Danea Esslinger (7:00), Josh Hartman, Amber Kelly, and Bradley Stewart.  Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Tom Decker, Jonathon O’Dell, Don George (Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks & Tourism), Codes Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Charlene Bolinger, and City Clerk Sally Johnson.

 

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS/PROJECTS

2024 Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing – hearing was opened; no patrons were present.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to adopt Resolution No. 2023-0912-1 to levy a property tax rate exceeding the revenue neutral rate

 

Roll Call Vote – Jess Ervin – Yes, Danea Esslinger – No Vote (absent), Josh Hartman – Yes, Amber Kelly – Yes, Bradley Stewart – Yes

 

Hearing closed.

 

2024 Budget Hearing – hearing was opened.  There were no patrons present.  Clerk Johnson asked the Council to consider paying off the Gas Utility Loan that was incurred due to 2021 Winter Storm Uri at the end of 2023 as there is no way to know how much more the interest rates will go up in 2024, 2025 and 2026.  The customers that opted to make monthly payments would continue to make monthly payments at the current interest rate as this is the rate paid when we pay off the debt.  This would change the published proposed budget for the Gas Utility but would not require a budget amendment for 2023.  Also heard today that we were awarded the KDWPT grant to finish riprapping the School Pond.  On General Fund, change 2024 expenditures for salaries/wages to $60,000, and parks and recreation to $20,500.  This will not change spending authority.

 

Motion by Kelly, Second by Hartman, Approved 4-0 to pay off gas utility loan on 12/31/2023 and adopt the 2024 budget as amended

 

Hearing closed.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to enter into executive session pursuant to data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of second parties matters exception, KSA 4319-(b)(4), in order to discuss economic development that pertains to private financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships, the open meeting to resume at 7:22, include Sally Johnson.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to extend executive session pursuant to data relating to financial affairs or trade secrets of second parties matters exception, KSA 4319-(b)(4), in order to discuss economic development that pertains to private financial affairs or trade secrets of corporations, partnerships, trusts and individual proprietorships, the open meeting to resume at 7:42, include Tom Decker and Sally Johnson.

 

Sally Johnson out at 7:30.  Open meeting resumed at 7:42PM.  No action taken.

 

Phase II of Uniontown School Pond Improvement Project – Don George informed the Council that the grant application was awarded and had two copies of the contract to be signed.  He also gave out information on invasive species.  Council appreciates all his efforts to get this funded.

 

Motion by Esslinger, Second by Kelly, Approved 5-0 to accept the grant award and sign the contract

 

Dangerous and Unfit Structure Hearing for 404 Washington St – Jonathon O’Dell was here to present evidence to repair, not remove, the structure.  He presented a bid he had received from a contractor to do the repairs and stated that the outside of the structure could be completed in 60 days.

 

Motion by Ervin, Second by Hartman, Approved 5-0 to adopt Resolution 2023-0912-2 directing that the structure at 404 Washington St be repaired and the premises made safe and secure by completely repair and secure the exterior of the structure commencing no later than September 27, 2023 and completed no later than December 1, 2023

 

Clerk Johnson will publish the resolution one time in The Fort Scott Tribune and mail by certified mail-restricted delivery, return receipt to all parties of interest.

 

CITIZENS REQUEST

None

 

FINANCIAL REPORT

Treasurer Bolinger present the August 2023 Treasurer’s Report.  Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $407,054.53, Receipts $32,491.88, Transfers Out $12,776.00, Expenditures $41,716.92, Checking Account Closing Balance $385,053.49. Bank Statement Balance $393,891.88, including Checking Account Interest of $85.60, Outstanding Deposits $0, Outstanding Checks $8,838.39, Reconciled Balance $385,053.49.  Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,412.16, Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $19,939.88, Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $33,689.81, Total All Funds, including Certificates of Deposit $472,095.34. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Acct is $630.95, and Utility CDs $640.87 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,271.82.  Also included the status of the Projects Checking Account for the month of August 2023, Beginning Balance $0, Receipts $4,300.00, Expenditures $4,300.00, Ending Balance $0.  August 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; from Capital Improvement-Chlorinator to Capital Improvement-Warehouse $10,000.00; for Total Transfers of $12,776.00.  Net Loss for the month of August $22,001.04, Year-to-Date Net Income $41,501.52.  Budget vs Actual Water Fund YTD Revenue $79,144.95 (64.8%), Expenditures $76,803.25 (47.9%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $25,223.16 (68.4%), Expenditures $20,924.4 (50.8%); Gas Fund YTD Revenue $99,843.35 (63.7%), Expenditures $85,528.98 (38.0%); General Fund YTD Revenue $130,027.96 (86.8%), Expenditures $110,471.20 (59.6%); and Special Highway YTD Revenue $6,100.03 (81.8%), Expenditures $0 (0%).  The September 2023 estimated payables in the amount of $27,482.63 were presented; however, Clerk Johnson did sate that a late bill came in and to add $1,300.

 

CONSENT AGENDA

Motion by Ervin, Second by Esslinger, Approved 5-0, to approve Consent Agenda as amended:

  • Minutes of August 8, 2023 Regular Council Meeting
  • Treasurer’s Report, Monthly Transaction Report & Accounts Payables

 

DEPARTMENT REPORTS

City Superintendent Rich reported that there were no leaks found on the gas system again this year.  Council thanked him for all his work to prepare the City for Old Settlers Picnic.

 

Codes Enforcement Officer Coyan reported that 505 Wall St has started their project to build a shed next to the carport and they will be moving the junk vehicle out of town.  It was reported that 405 Clay St has a lot of brush piles.

 

Clerk Johnson reported that she forgot to get Citywide Yard Sales on the agenda before the last cleanup.  Consensus was to not designate a Citywide Yard Sale date this year.

She has registered to attend the KMU Regional Meeting on October 25, 1:30-3:30, Iola.

KDHE has implemented a new reporting portal and all water/wastewater reporting is to be done online beginning 2024.

She will be attending the KMEA/KMGA Fall Conference, October 19-20, Wichita.

 

COUNCIL REPORT

Councilman Ervin – City of Fort Scott has implemented water conservation efforts and initiated a citywide burn ban.  Do we have a plan to get notice to customers if C2 issues a water restriction? Yes, it would be posted to webpage and a letter would be mailed to all customers.  He also asked if we could consider a text messaging system for notifying customers/citizens.  Clerk Johnson will do some research.  Also noted that City of Fort Scott is raising their water rates 3%.  We will need to add a possible increase for our water rates, if we get a rate increase letter from C2.  Also reported that the metal pile during citywide cleanup was taken before the City could recycle it.  Council may consider adding something to the flyer about the City recycling the metal, that it is not for the taking.

Councilwoman Esslinger – nothing

Councilman Hartman – nothing

Councilwoman Kelly – Thanked staff for getting US flags replaced.

Councilman Stewart – nothing

Mayor Jurgensen – nothing

 

OLD BUSINESS

Electrical in Park – Five 30AMP outlets were installed the Friday before Labor Day.  Electrician also installed switches for the light and fan for the ceiling fan in the gazebo.

 

Street project – contract has been received and reviewed by legal.  Start time per the bid we accepted is October 2023 with 0-5 days duration of project.  USD 235 thanked the City for patching the pot hole in the drive to the stadium and medical clinic.

 

Mural Grant – bills have been paid; however, we have not received the remaining 25% of the grant from Office of Rural Prosperity.

 

Placemaking Project – estimated cost of concrete only, no site prep, is $17,150.  Need to prepare a budget for the project, then send out invitations to bid.

 

NEW BUSINESS

None

 

Moved by Kelly, Second by Ervin, Approved 5-0, to adjourn at 9:07PM

Fort Scott Community College, Jobs

RAMSEY ASSUMES ROLE AS FSCC THEATER MANAGER/TECH DIRECTOR

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Joshua Ramsey. Submitted photo.

Josh Ramsey, much like an understudy fully prepared to step into a lead role, has assumed the duties of theater manager/technical director at Fort Scott Community College.

Ramsey, originally from Parsons, succeeds Lawrence Alford in the position and came highly recommended by his successor, who is moving to Oregon this month after five months at FSCC.

“I am super excited to get right to work here at FSCC,” said Ramsey, who worked with Alford as the assistant technical director at Memorial Auditorium and Convention Center in Pittsburg before his hiring at FSCC. “As the new technical director/theater manager, I will be responsible for designing and building sets for FSCC drama productions, operation and maintenance of all equipment in the Ellis theater, as well as scheduling events for the auditorium, lobby and meeting rooms.”

After graduating from Labette County High School in 2018, Ramsey earned a bachelor degree in communication with an emphasis in theater and a minor in graphic design from Pittsburg State University in 2022. While attending PSU, he worked for the theater department as a student carpenter for four years.

He came to FSCC from his job at Memorial Auditorium.

On the personal front, Ramsey is planning for a wedding soon.

“I proposed to my high school sweetheart, Shakota, just this last December, and we plan to get married in about a year,” he said. “This last month, we welcomed into our home a 3-month-old husky/Great Pyrenes puppy named Khonshu. He is so spoiled.”

In his free time, Ramsey enjoys playing video games and board games with his family and friends.

“I also love cooking, reading and watching movies and television,” he noted.

Ramsey can be reached at [email protected].

Ellis Fine Arts Center on the campus of Fort Scott Community College, 2401 S. Horton, where the theatre is located.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Uncategorized

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran Newsletter

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Hosting the Kansas Chamber of Commerce
This week, the Kansas delegation had the privilege of hosting members of the Kansas Chamber of Commerce in Washington, D.C. It was great to meet with members of the chamber and discuss the state’s economic growth. On Wednesday evening, I helped lead the group on a night tour of the U.S. Capitol. It is a special experience to see our nation’s Capitol at night and share the beauty of this incredible building and all that it represents. Thank you to our chamber members and staff for the discussion this week and for their efforts to invest in our state and people.

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Bourbon County Local News