Open Class at The Fair: Baking Contest
Submitted by Jackie Warren
There will be an Open Class at the Bourbon County Fair this year. Lots of things will be happening.
In addition to the exhibits, there will be several contests. The King Arthur Baking Company will be sponsoring a baking contest again this year. The King Arthur Flour has arrived and is ready for distribution. Everyone who will be entering the baking contest will receive a 5-pound bag of King Arthur All-Purpose Flour.
To enter the baking contest come to the Myers Building on Saturday, June 12 between 10 am and noon. You will receive your recipe for the contest and a bag of King Arthur Flour.
If this time does not work for you, please call Jackie Warren at 620-224-8161 and other arrangements will be made to pick up your recipe and flour.
Normally any Open Class exhibit would be accepted if completed after the 2020 Bourbon County Fair. Since the Open Class portion of the 2020 fair was cancelled due to the pandemic, you may submit any project that you have completed since the 2019 Fair. However, remember that you may only enter one project per class.
Do not forget the scarecrow contest and the small hay bale decorating contest. Please submit your registration so that a hay bale will be provided for you. Also, a bucket of sand will be provided to hold your scarecrow.
If you have any questions, call Terri Williams at 620-215-3202 or Jackie Warren at 620-224-8161
The Fort Scott Police Department Daily Reports June 4-5
Change Your Underwear by Carolyn Tucker
Keys to the Kingdom
In my later teen years at home, my parents would usually “call it a night” before I did. Like clockwork, they would straighten up the living room before heading off to bed. It was their nightly routine to put everything in its place. One time Mom explained their tradition: “Back in the day, we always cleaned the living room before going to bed in case the doctor had to come in the night.” That made good sense to me because it was a good habit and good habits should continue even if the reason for them is out of style. That’s why I can join a few others in saying, “I’m from the old school.“ Another rule I learned was to always wear clean underwear in case you’re in a car wreck.
Generally speaking, nobody sees your underwear because it’s hiding beneath your outer clothing. You’re the only person who knows whether your undies are clean, worn-out, uncomfortable, or stink. Spiritually speaking, what’s on the outside is just a façade, but what’s on the inside (hiding) is the real thing. “As I think in my heart [which is underneath and hidden] so am I“ (Proverbs 23:7). Believers need to be careful of the temptation to harbor negative undercurrents in their mind and heart. Bad attitudes are sure to show up in your conversations, facial expressions, and actions. Although you try, you can’t hide what’s on the inside because it comes out involuntarily. King David wrote: “He [God] knows the secrets of every heart” (Psalm 44:21 NLT).
Everyday we have the choice to wear dirty or clean underwear. The Apostle Paul tells us that believers have the choice to put on Jesus or leave Him in the closet. “Instead, clothe yourself with the presence of the Lord Jesus Christ. And don‘t let yourself think about ways to indulge your evil desires“ (Romans 13:14 NLT). If you’re so busy with going here and there, and doing this and that, you may not even be able to find Jesus to put Him on. If your closet of life is cluttered with stuff, Jesus will just continue to hang around waiting to be worn.
I enjoy going through drawers, cabinets, and closets to throw out stuff that serves no purpose. Christians have to do the same thing spiritually. “Since you have heard about Jesus and have learned the truth that comes from Him, throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. Put on your new nature, created to be like God — truly righteous and holy” (Ephesians 4:21-24 NLT). You have to take off something old in order to put on something new. It would be dumb for someone to put clean underwear on over the top of dirty ones. (If brains were gasoline, she couldn’t ride a moped around a fruit loop!)
A baby is coddled and bottled and that’s sweet. But if a Christian is expecting God to do everything for him/her, that stinks. God has His part and we have our part. Paul says believers are to “put on our new nature.” By the power of the Holy Spirit, we are to dress ourselves with the presence of Jesus every day — one size fits all.
The Key: Beware! If your underwear stinks, then you’re the one to change it.
Agriculture is #1 by Gregg Motley
Agriculture is #1
Changes in how we produce food has to be the number one reason rural America and Bourbon County are shrinking; however, agriculture continues to be a major economic influence in rural America and the number one industry in BB. Consider the following 2017 statistics about BB agriculture from the State of Kansas:
Total acres in BB: 406,701 Acres farmed: 335,935, or 82.6%
Total farm employment: 821, or about one in ten workers
Agricultural product sales: $79 million
Cattle population: 71,079, or about 5 cows per BB resident
It does not take an economist to discern that Bourbon County income spent in-county helps us all, but we must have outside money coming into the pool to grow. Right now, for every $1 earned by a BB resident, only 70 cents is spent in BB, including money spent by outsiders. Much resident money goes to KC, Joplin, Internet sites, and even Iola, Pittsburg, and Nevada. Allen County, which has a population that is more than 2,000 people less than BB, collects far more sales tax than we do annually. They draw a significant amount of shoppers from Woodson, Anderson, and, yes, BB. The drive time for Allen County residents to shop in Wichita, Joplin or KC is prohibitive, so they are more inclined to shop at home.
This basic economic principle accentuates the critical nature of agriculture here, because the vast majority of the $79 million farm product sold in 2017 was to people and corporations who domicile outside of BB. That represents new dollars in our economic engine. Much of that money is spent in stores and restaurants in our towns. Ranchers drive significant miles to sell cattle in our livestock auction, then eat and shop in BB while they are here. Agriculture remains, and will continue to be, a strong driver of the BB economy.
What is my point? Thank God for every farmer/rancher you encounter. React with patience when you see a livestock trailer or farm implement around town. Greet these hardworking Americans with the respect that they are due. Create promotions in your business to attract them and show your appreciation. Attend the Bourbon County Fair and buy a premium on the animal of a 4-H participant at the auction. Attend Pioneer Harvest Fiesta and learn about the history of agriculture in this region.
The BEDCO Board of Trustees, along with our new Executive Director, Rob Harrington, will be exploring ways to invest in our agriculture and agri-business communities by attracting investment and grant money to our county. We will be investing our time, talent and treasure in every sector of our county, including our number 1 industry, agriculture.
Bourbon County Commission Agenda For June 8
Agenda
Bourbon County Commission Room
1st Floor, County Courthouse
210 S. National Avenue
Fort Scott, KS 66701
Tuesdays starting at 9:00
Date: June 8, 2021
1st District-Lynne Oharah Minutes: Approved: _______________
2nd District–Jim Harris Corrected: _______________________
3rd District-Clifton Beth Adjourned at: _______________
County Clerk-Kendell Mason
MEETING WILL BE HELD IN THE COMMISSION ROOM.
Call to Order
- Flag Salute
- Approval of Minutes from previous meeting
- Eric Bailey – Road and Bridge Report
- Commissioners to Review Fireworks Permits
- Will Wallis-2022 Budget Review
- Elected Officials Comment
- County Counselor Comment
- Susan Bancroft, Finance Director
- 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.
SPARK Continues
Governor Laura Kelly Announces Bipartisan SPARK Executive Committee to Continue Economic Recovery Efforts
TOPEKA – As part of her efforts to build a better, more resilient economy in Kansas, Governor Laura Kelly today announced the bipartisan members of the executive committee of the second Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce.
The Taskforce, originally established in May 2020 to oversee the distribution of funds from the federal CARES Act, is charged with leading Kansas forward in continued recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Through the SPARK process, we have transparently and equitably allocated more than $1 billion in CARES Act funds to support businesses, keep Kansans healthy, improve access to broadband, and boost our economy,” Governor Kelly said. “I’m pleased to reignite the Taskforce this year to maintain that transparent process and show Kansans that we’re using these relief funds to make strategic investments where they are needed most.”
Similar to the CARES funding distribution process, the Kansas Office of Recovery will again be responsible for the statewide distribution of federal coronavirus relief funds allocated to Kansas through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) of March 2021.
A new and expanded seven-member executive committee will oversee the funding distribution process, assisted by an advisory committee with additional members. The advisory committee recommends investments to the executive committee, and the executive committee then makes recommendations to the State Finance Council, which makes the final determination.
Appointments to the advisory committee will be announced in the following weeks.
The members of the SPARK Executive Committee are as follows:
- Lt. Governor David Toland – Chair
- Secretary of Administration DeAngela Burns-Wallace – Governor’s Public Sector Appointee
- Jon Rolph, Governor’s Private Sector Appointee
- Speaker of the House Ron Ryckman
- Senate President Ty Masterson
- Greg Orman – Speaker Ryckman’s Appointee
- Bill Pickert – President Masterson’s Appointee
“Through its combination of public and private partners, I know that the SPARK Taskforce will look past immediate COVID-19 recovery to build a better, more inclusive and resilient economy for future generations,” Governor Kelly said. “I want to thank these leaders for their willingness to serve.”
For more information on ARPA, visit https://covid.ks.gov/arpa/.
Obituary of Eugene Farmer
Eugene L. Farmer (91) was born in the family farmhouse near Devon, Kansas, on January 5, 1930. He passed peacefully May 19, 2021, at Presbyterian Village in Fort Scott. He was the second child of Alfred and Rowena (McCrum) Farmer.
He, his older sister, Colleen, and younger brother, Don, all attended a one room country school for the first eight years. Later he graduated from Ft. Scott High School. In high school Gene excelled in both football and track. In January of 1949 he married Betty Jane Martin. On their first anniversary in January of 1950 he proudly brought home his wife and first child, Cindy. Cindy was followed by Rod in 1951, Kathy in 1952 and Marty in 1957.
Always a hard worker, he gained plumbing and heating experience from working for his father-in-law, C.C Martin of Martin Plumbing and Heating. Gene then began working in construction. Some of the buildings of which he helped build were the National Guard Armory, Mercy Hospital, and the KG&E company. He worked morning and night often milking both his father’s and his own cows, as well as sometimes farming in the moonlight.
In 1956, Gene began a new occupation as fireman, brakeman, and conductor for the Frisco railroad working between Kansas City and Fort Scott. At that point he was able to purchase his own farm just north of Bethel School and Church. He and his family moved to Overland Park in May of 1968.
In 1983 Gene married Ruth Milam Williams, a teacher and coach in the Olathe School District. After 35 years of service, Gene retired from the Burlington Northern Railroad in January 1992. Upon retirement, with his strong work ethic, Gene followed his first love and purchased a farm, built their dream home, and began farming outside of Ft. Scott.
Gene and Ruth joined the First Presbyterian Church in Ft. Scott where they were quite active. Gene served as a deacon and Ruth served on many committees. Gene moved his Shriners’ membership to Mirza Temple of Bourbon County. He particularly enjoyed activities that benefited the crippled children. Having season tickets for many years they attended KU basketball and football home games and enjoyed many vacations with the Flying Jayhawks Alumni Association. Always a farmer, he loved to plant large gardens each spring and both enjoyed giving away much of the harvest to church, family, and friends. He loved training bird dogs (mostly setters) and took pride in being one of the most passionate quail hunters in Bourbon County. In addition to a love for the outdoors, which included farming, hunting, and fishing, he also pitched fast pitch softball for the Devon Hay Bailers.
A tractor purchased by Gene’s dad, Alfred, was a 1955 Minneapolis Moline ZB. Gene had it restored and enjoyed driving it in Ft. Scott parades. He won several awards including driving the featured tractor that appeared on the collector button for the 2008 Pioneer Harvest Fiesta. Gene’s grandson (Josh) later purchased the tractor which may be seen in future Turner Day parades. Both Gene and Ruth felt honored in receiving the 2009 Bankers Conservation Award for Bourbon County.
Gene is survived by three children Cynthia Huyett, Rod (Kris) Farmer, Marty (Sandy) Farmer, a brother, Don (Paula) Farmer, two sisters-in-law, Janice (Lee) Sprinkle and Margaret (Rob) Ferriman, thirteen grandchildren, nineteen great-grandchildren, and two great-great-grandchildren.
He was preceded in death by Kathleen Bailey Oatman (daughter), Jane Martin Farmer (wife of 28 years), Ruth Milam Farmer (second wife of 37 years) and Colleen Kelley (sister).
A Celebration of Life will be held Thursday, June 10, First Presbyterian Church of Fort Scott at 308 S. Crawford under the direction of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home.
Visitation will be from 1-2 pm with the service beginning at 2 pm. Interment will follow at the Centerville Cemetery.
The family requests that in lieu of flowers, memorial contributions be made either to the Shriners Hospitals for Children or First Presbyterian Church and may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 W. Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas, 66701. Condolences may be submitted to the online guestbook at konantz-cheney.com.
Obituary of Frederick “Canaan” Smith
Frederick “Canaan” Lee Smith was born at Shawnee Mission Hospital on May 13, 1983. He died unexpectedly at the age of 38, on May 24, 2021, in Denver, Colorado.
Canaan was a current resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, and was working as a Millwright Mechanic on gas/steam turbines for power plants with Mohawk Services (MD&A).
Canaan graduated from Pleasanton High School and attended Johnson County Community College. He later moved to Wichita, Kansas where he managed several Jiffy Lube locations. He then returned to Ft. Scott where he joined his life-long friend, Steven, working for Mohawk Service. They traveled throughout our nation working on power plant turbines. While in Denver, he obtained his A Mechanic goal.
Canaan was a devoted son, loyal brother and friend. He enjoyed traveling, loved his 1967 Firebird and doted on his beloved dog, Baby. He loved to cook, watch funny movies, and spend time with friends and family. When he was not traveling, you could find him grilling a great steak with shrimp at home. Canaan had a big heart, never met a stranger, always willing to help others and was loved by all those who knew him. He will be deeply missed.
Canaan is survived by his mother, Laura, step-father, Skip Brown, his father, Fred Smith and Sue Carey, his sister, Tanya Glessner and brother-in-law, Randy Glessner, his brother, Jesse Smith and sister-in-law, Misty Smith, grandmother, Marjorie Turner, uncles and aunts, James Grubb, Aideen Grubb, Joel Grubb, Angela Grubb, a multitude of extended family and cousins, his life long friends, Steven Thomas and Christopher Brooks.
Funeral services will be held at 2:00 P.M. Saturday, June 12th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Oak Grove Cemetery.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
Obituary of Norman J. Spencer
Norman James “Shorty” Spencer, age 92, a former resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas, passed away Friday, May 21, 2021, in Arizona.
Funeral services will be held at 11:00 A.M. Saturday, June 12th at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Burial will follow in the West Liberty Cemetery. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the Cheney Witt Chapel.
Arrangements are under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
What’s Happening in Fort Scott! June 4th Weekly Newsletter
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Small Town Proud: Bronson Offers Shop Day
In a collaboration with local business owners, the Bronson Locker has started a Saturday shop day and is inviting local vendors and the public.
The street in front of the locker at 504 Clay Street, Bronson, is the venue and the dates are every other weekend: June 5th and 19th, July 3rd and 17th, and 31st, and Augusta 14th and 28th.
“The purpose of the sale is to bring local vendors and the community together to shop and support local,” Mandie Ericson, one of the sponsors of the event. “And It’s a way to bring the community together in general.”
“What this last year has taught us is that we are a strong country and small business in America is vital and the backbone of America,” she said. ” We want to keep pushing local vendors and small businesses.”
“For some people, (the COVID-19 Pandemic) negatively impacted them with a lack of farmer’s markets or events to sell at, so we want to attract more people into Bronson as well as help other vendors in need.”
“We are looking for more vendors to make this grow,” Erickson said. “We plan on continuing this every year!”
“Bronson is centrally located so we are trying to bring people in from Allen and Bourbon county to take advantage of our location being surrounded by small towns,” she said.
“So far we have the locker open for retail meats, the antique shop is open, Perry’s Pork Rinds, fresh farm honey, homemade pies, homemade jams, Super Poop and Highway 54 Buildings, and other vendors,” Ericson said.
“A local restaurant, The Chicken Shak offers a 10% discount for anyone that comes, and we match their discount if they have eaten at Chicken Shak,” she said.
