Bourbon County, Business, Fort Scott

Evergy: Upgrading to Enhance Electric Service Reliability

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  Work on the new Evergy substation as seen from  North National Avenue on Feb. 26

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Evergy provides electrical service connection and repair to most of Bourbon County.

The company has acquired the property needed for the new Fort Scott substation which has frontage on North National Avenue.

Dirt work has begun at the new site, adjacent to the former equipment site.

“We have relocated conflicting utilities and are preparing the site for construction,” said Kaley Bohlen, Evergy Communications Manager.

The project is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024.

“The upgrades will enhance electric reliability and support growth in the area, as well as strengthen the regional power grid,” Bohlen said. “The new equipment will be stronger, more efficient and incorporate technology that can help reduce power outages, both in frequency and length.”

“Because the project will benefit Evergy customers, costs will be reflected in customer rates,” Bohlen said.

The Kansas Corporation Commission has been sending out press releases to explain the process of the rate increase to upgrade electric services. To learn more, see the end of this story for the links to the press releases. The public was requested to comment during the process.

“The average monthly impact to residential customers will be an increase of $4.64 per month for Evergy Kansas Central customers and a decrease of $6.07 per month for Evergy Metro customers. The new rates will take effect based on the customer billing cycle date beginning December 21, 2023,” according to a press release in November 2023 : Evergy/KCC Settlement Announced

Bourbon County is in the Evergy Kansas Central service area.

Evergy Kansas Central serves 736,000 customers in Topeka, Lawrence, Olathe, Leavenworth, Atchison, Manhattan, Salina, Hutchinson, Emporia, Parsons, Wichita, Arkansas City, El Dorado, Newton, Fort Scott, Pittsburg and Independence, among other towns and rural areas, according to a KCC press release. Evergy Kansas Metro serves approximately 273,000 customers in Lenexa, Overland Park and other communities near the Kansas City metro area.

The contractor for the Fort Scott project is Wolf Construction, Bohlen said.

The new Infantry Substation will be about 1.75 acres and will replace the former Fort Scott Substation that was damaged by fire in August 2022., according to Bohlen in a prior interview.

Looking to the left of the current Evergy Fort Scott Service Center Office on Old Fort Boulevard on February 26, one can see the current substation that is being replaced. This substation was damaged by fire in August 2022.

“The new substation will provide additional capacity to enhance electric reliability for the Fort Scott area, as well as strengthen the regional power grid,” she said in a prior interview. “Automated switching capabilities and grid automation will help improve outage response times.”

“Construction has begun and is scheduled to be completed by the end of 2024,” she said in the prior interview. “Once the new substation is operational, we will decommission the current Fort Scott Substation and remove all structures and equipment that are no longer in use. The existing Fort Scott Service Center utilized for personnel and offices will remain. Once the new Infantry Substation is built and operational, the existing Fort Scott Substation equipment and poles will be removed.”

Evergy Fort Scott Service Center is currently located on Old Fort Blvd.  The new Infantry Substation is located north and west of this building.
The Evergy building is seen from North National Avenue at Stanton Street.

To view the prior story:

Evergy Will Move Substation Equipment and Poles

To view prior press releases on Evergy within the last six months:

Proposed Evergy Settlement Agreement If Approved: Approximately $5 More Per Month for Kansas Central Customers

1.66 Percent Increase Justified to Provide Electricity to Evergy Central Customers. 

Evergy Rate Increase Request July 27

 

 

Area News, Entertainment, Schools

Preparing for prom: Fairy Godmother Boutique set for March 16

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PITTSBURG — Thanks to generous donors and the Fairy Godmother Boutique, area high school students can pick out new and gently used dresses. Many don’t look forward to prom
because they can’t afford to purchase a dress and accessories.

“The Fairy Godmother Boutique was created to help these students get the prom experience we all dream of — the perfect dress, the hair, the shoes,” Patient Education & Support Manager
Julie Laverack says.

The pop-up boutique is set for Saturday, March 16, at CHC/SEK in Pittsburg, at 3011 N. Michigan (Pittsburg). To shop for a free dress, prom goers must book an appointment by calling 620-231-
9873 and ask for a Family Resource Specialist.

Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas staff and community recently gathered their lightly used and nearly new prom dresses to give to the Fairy Godmother Boutique. Additionally,
sponsor Sara Loree’s Bridal and Formal, donated many dresses as well.

“We’ve had tremendous community support,” Laverack says. “Thank you all for donating these beautiful dresses. Another huge thank you to those who signed up to be volunteer stylists during the event.”

There will be dresses sizes 0-20 in a variety of styles. Personal stylists, makeup consultants and private dressing rooms will be available.
There are still opportunities to sign up and volunteer by reaching Laverack at 620-231-9873.
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Government, Kansas

Kansas February Total Tax Collections at $521.4M; 6.0% Below Estimate

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TOPEKA – The State of Kansas ends February 2024 with total tax collections at $521.4 million. That is $33.1 million, or 6.0%, below the estimate. Total tax collections are down 5.2% from February 2023.

“Falling short of estimates for the fourth consecutive month reiterates that Kansas must pass a tax cut plan that is sustainable and fiscally responsible,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “That’s why I have proposed a bipartisan tax cut package that would benefit all Kansans without jeopardizing our long-term economic growth or ability to continue fully funding essential services.”

Individual income tax collections were $173.6 million. That is $46.4 million, or 21.1%, below the estimate, and down 17.9% from February 2023. Corporate income tax collections were $21.1 million. That is $5.1 million, or 31.6%, above the estimate and up 37.5% from February 2023.

Combined retail sales and compensating use tax receipts were $252.6 million, which is $10.4 million, or 4.0%, below the estimate and down $15.4 million, or 5.7%, from February 2023.

Click to here view the February 2024 revenue numbers.

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K-State Extension

Fruit Tree Dormant Oil Application

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February brought us above normal temperatures. I’ve heard the frogs signing on several days, which is always a welcome sound to my ears because I know spring is near! When the nice, warm days grace us in March, make time to apply a dormant oil on your fruit trees.

There are a number of dormant sprays used on fruit trees and other plants to control various diseases and insects. However, a dormant oil spray is designed to control scale insects, aphids and mites. Just like the name implies, dormant oils are applied before the tree begins to bud. Dormant oil sprays are important because some pests attack before visible growth even begins. If you have a problem with scale, now is the time to start watching the weather and look for an opportunity to spray.

Scale insects can be seen easily this time of year since there a no leaves. Scale insects are easily overlooked because they are small and immobile most of their lives, and they do not resemble most other insects. Many of them resemble small shells that are oval or circular. Coloring varies but can include white, tan and brown. Plants that should be inspected for scales include apple, pear, other fruit trees, lilac, crabapple, oak, ash, elm, maple, arborvitae, juniper, pine, spruce, euonymus and yew.

Plants are not harmed if only a few scales are present, but scale population can increase dramatically during the growing season. Heavy scale infestations can damage fruit crops, destroy branches and kill entire plants.

Normally sprays should be applied around March 1, especially with peaches and nectarines. Apples are tougher and application may be delayed up to the green tip stage. Temperatures need to be at least 40 degrees so spray has a chance to dry before freezing. If the spray does freeze before it dries, plant injury can occur. Applying the spray during the morning will help insure that it dries properly. It is much easier to achieve good spray coverage if the tree is pruned before spraying.

The Extension office has several publications outlining the fruit spray schedule for the entire growing season.

Now is an excellent time to prune. Pruning can be done in March. Prune on days when the temperature is above 20 degrees to prevent injury. Prune older trees first because older, larger wood tolerates lower temperatures than young trees with small diameter wood.

 

If your trees are overgrown, out of control and you just don’t know where to begin, stop by the Extension office and pick up a pruning publication. This publication offers step-by-step instructions on pruning overgrown trees and it also has nice diagrams.

 

Krista Harding is a K-State Research and Extension Horticulture agent assigned to Southwind District.  She may be reached at [email protected] or 620-244-3826.

 

K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

 

Opinion

Jethro’s Advice by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom By Carolyn Tucker

 

 

I know of two people named “Jethro.” When I was growing up, one of my favorite TV  series was The Beverly Hillbillies. Jethro was part of the weekly cast who portrayed the silly enthusiastic son of Pearl Bodine. He was a champion crawdad eater who considered being a brain surgeon, but later changed his mind to be a double-knaught spy like 007. He had a huge appetite and would eat his cereal in a large mixing bowl. The truck tire blew to smithereens when he aired it up with his mouth, much to his Ma’s annoyance. His main goal was to meet perty girls. Jethro needed lots of advice and Uncle Jed often told him, “Jethro, one of these days, you and me is gonna have a long talk.”

 

The other Jethro was Moses’ father-in-law. Moses married Zipporah and they lived with Jethro, the priest of Midian. During those 40 years, Moses and Jethro developed a solid relationship of a high order. After Moses led the Israelites out of Egypt, Jethro heard about everything God had done, so he came to Moses in the wilderness. Jethro was delighted to hear about all the miracles God had performed. As usual, the next day, Moses personally took the full load as judge for the 2 million or more people. When Jethro saw all that he was doing alone for the Israelites, he asked, “What is this thing that you are doing for the people? Why are you sitting by yourself while all the people stand around you from morning until evening?” (Exodus 18:14 MEV). Moses answered that the people came to him when they had disputes and he judged between the two parties.

 

Jethro wasn’t at all satisfied with Moses’ answer. What he really wanted to know was why in the world wasn’t Moses delegating this gigantic responsibility! Jethro warned Moses that what he was doing was “not good“ and said, “You’re going to wear yourself out — and the people too. This job is too heavy a burden for you to handle all by yourself. Now listen to me, and let me give you a word of advice, and may God be with you. …Select from all the people some capable, honest men who fear God and hate bribes. Appoint them as leaders over groups of one thousand, one hundred, fifty, and ten. They should always be available to solve the people’s common disputes, but have them bring the major cases to you. They will help you carry the load, making the task easier for you.  If you follow this advice…then you will be able to endure the pressures, and all these people will go home in peace.” (Exodus 18:18,19,21-23 NLT). Obviously, Jethro cared deeply about his son-in-law‘s well being and the future of his daughter and grandsons.

 

Although Moses didn’t ask for Jethro’s opinion, he listened to his advice and followed his suggestions. This speaks highly of their long-standing relationship. They could be transparent with each other and speak the truth in love. Sometimes a spiritual loved one can see unhealthy patterns and methods that the individual can’t see. Like Moses, we would do well to listen and consider wise advice. No one wants to see a loved one break down or burn out — especially when it’s preventable.

 

Jethro asked Moses two questions that we should ask ourselves periodically: What am I doing? Why am I doing it? When we get used to doing something the same way over and over, we’re not apt to consider if there’s a better way to handle it. We’ve heard the term, “Work smarter, not harder.”

 

The Key: Unsolicited advice is not always bad. It could even save your life.

K-State Extension

Herbs – From Plant to Plate

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Herbs – From Plant to Plate

Whether for culinary or medicinal purposes, herbs are versatile plants. Learn how to grow herbs and how to utilize them with different foods in this free workshop hosted by the Southwind Extension District! Workshop topics will include how to grow herbs, the easiest herbs to grow, how to store herbs properly, and the health benefits of cooking with herbs. There will also be samples to try! If you have questions about this workshop, call 620-244-3826. This workshop will be offered in two locations.

K-State Research and Extension is committed to making its services, activities and programs accessible to all participants. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities may be requested by contacting Krista Harding at 620-365-2242 or [email protected]. Notify staff of accommodation needs as early as possible.
Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service. K-State Research and Extension is an equal opportunity provider and employer.

Speakers
Krista Harding is the horticulture agent for
the Southwind Extension District. With her
green thumb expertise, she will show you
how to grow herbs both indoors and in the
garden.

Clara Misenhelter is a Nutrition, Food, and
Health agent for the Southwind Extension
District. Clara will share her knowledge
utilizing the natural seasoning of herbs to
make meals healthier.

Monday, March 25th
6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m.
Uniontown City Hall
206 Sherman Street

Questions? Call 620-244-3826

 

Art, Business, Fort Scott

The Artificers in March

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The Artificers In March!

Check out the calendar below for all events happening this month!

Returning Master Artist!

March Classes
Click Here to Join in the Fun!

Don’t forget our First Fridays event! Come, socialize, explore and enjoy March 1st!

Think of us for your Parties!!
Give us a call and schedule yours today!!
Bourbon County, Government

The Agenda of the Bourbon County Commission for March 4

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Bourbon County Courthouse

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

Fax: 620-223-5832

Bourbon County, Kansas

Nelson Blythe

1st District Commissioner

Jim Harris, Chairman

2nd District Commissioner

Clifton Beth

3rd District Commissioner

 

 

Bourbon County Commission Agenda 210 S. National Ave.

Fort Scott, KS 66701

 

March 4, 2024 5:30 p.m.

 

 

  1. Call Meeting to Order
  2. Flag Salute
  • Approval of Consent Agenda
    1. Approval of Minutes 2/26/2024
  1. Public Comments
  2. Thomas Russell-Resolution 04-24
  3. Department Updates
    1. Public Works
  • Matt Quick 6:00 Conference Call with Property Valuation Division
  • Healthcare Sales Tax Ballot Language
  1. Commission Comments
  2. Adjourn Meeting

 

 

Executive Session Justifications:

 

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

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

attorney-client relationship.

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

representative(s) of               the body or agency.

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

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

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

would jeopardize such security measures.

Fort Scott, Government, Schools

Agenda For U234 Board of Education for March 4

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Unified School District 234

424 South Main

Fort Scott, KS 66701-2697

www.usd234.org

620-223-0800   Fax 620-223-2760

 

DESTRY BROWN                                                                                                                                                        

Superintendent                                                                                                                                             

 

 

 

 

BOARD OF EDUCATION REGULAR MEETING

March 4, 2024 – 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

  1. 02/12/24 Board Minutes

            4.4       Payroll – January 19, 2024 – $1,658,014.61

4.6       USD 234 Gifts

5.0       Recognitions (Information/Discussion Item)

FSHS Drama Department will present

5.1 Employee Recognition

6.0       Leadership Reports (Information/Discussion Item)

            6.1       Superintendent’s Report

  • Notable Legislation
  • Graduation Requirements
  • Enrollment Update

            6.2       Assistant Superintendent’s Report

            6.3       Special Education Director’s Report

            6.4       Finance Director’s Report

  • Investments
  • April Premium Pay

7.0       Old Business

            7.1       Cell Phone Policy (Discussion Item)                                  

 

8.0       New Business

8.1       Approval of 2024-25 School Calendar (Pending negotiations) (Action Item)

              8.2       Purchase of School Bus – $113,071.00 (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

Obituary

Obituary of Anna Miller

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Anna D. Miller, age 68, a resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Thursday, February 29, 2024, at the Medicalodge of Ft. Scott.  She was born April 26, 1955, in Ft. Scott, the daughter of Frank Miller and Laura Eden Miller.  Annie completed Ft. Scott High School with the Class of 1973.  Annie had a variety of jobs during her life.  Some of which included working at the Oak Ridge Nursing Home, Ennis Printing and the Southeast Kansas Regional Correctional Center.  Annie’s life centered around her family.  She loved traveling and organizing family outings and get togethers.  She also enjoyed assembling and wrapping her niece’s and nephew’s Christmas presents.  One could say that Annie was a tomboy; favorite times were spent camping and fishing with family as well as going to rummage sales and estate sales.  She had a mechanical mind and enjoyed tinkering with cars and motors.  She also liked photography and taking care of her cats and dogs.

 

Survivors include her brothers, Frank “Tink” Miller and wife, Bobby Ann of Ft. Scott, George Miller and wife, Susan of Eudora, Kansas and Doug Miller and wife, Tammy, also of Ft. Scott as well as several nieces and nephews, cousins and friends.

She was preceded in death by her parents, Frank and Laura Miller.

 

Funeral services will be held at 1:00 P.M. Monday, March 4th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Burial will follow in the Lath Branch Cemetery.

The family will receive friends from 2 to 4 P.M. Sunday at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

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

Obituary

Obituary of Charles Russell

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Charles Grant Russell, age 78, a resident of rural Redfield, Kansas, passed away Friday, February 29, 2024, at the Freeman West Hospital in Joplin, Missouri.  He was born July 9, 1945, in Ft. Scott, Kansas, the son of George Russell and Bernice Stine Russell.  Charles attended school in Uniontown Kansas and later graduated from Ft. Scott Christian Heights.  He married Joy Jury on December 24, 1976, at LaCross, Kansas.  Charles worked for many years as a farmer and stockman.  In addition, he also worked as a rural mail carrier for the Redfield Post Office.  He had attended the Grace Baptist Tabernacle and later the Bethel Community Church.  He enjoyed hunting and fishing.

 

Survivors include his son, Joe Russell and wife, Jimmy Lyn of Redfield, Kansas; six grandchildren, Cassie Cox (Jason) of Redfield, Eli Gregg who is currently stationed in California with the United States Marine Corps, Conner Gregg, Trevor Russell and Kohlton Russell all of Redfield with a great-grandchild on the way.  Also surviving are three sisters, Judy White and husband, Joe, and Nancy Graham all of Uniontown, Kansas and Elaine Fisher of Ft. Scott, Kansas.

Charles was preceded in death by his wife, Joy, on October 23, 2001.

He was also preceded in death by his parents and a sister, Mary Wilkinson.

 

The family will receive friends from 3 to 5 P.M. Thursday, March 7th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.

Following visitation, there will be cremation and a private burial will be held in the Centerville Cemetery.

Memorials are suggested to the Charles Russell Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Local News