The May meeting of the Starlite FCE was held May 20th at the Yeager building at the Fairgrounds. President Glenda Miller called the meeting to order, the Flag Salute and Club Collect were led by Deb Lust. Ten members were in attendance and reported that they had volunteered for ten hours and had recycled eighty pounds of cardboard.
The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved. Doris Ericson presented the Treasurer’s report. Glenda Miller read a thank you card from Betty Johnson. Glenda also announced that the Aging with Attitude sessions are available on line if you missed them.
Deb Lust announced that the Master Gardeners had assisted Presbyterian Village with their vegetable beds. Starlite members Clarice Russell, Noleen Whiteside and Letha Johnson, residents of Presbyterian Village, assisted the Master Gardeners.
Jackie Warren updated the club on the Bourbon County Fair, this year’s theme is “Fun for the whole Herd.” Deb Lust announced the Memorial Day service activities, which include a service on the Court House lawn at 9:30 at the veteran’s memorial, a 10:30 service at Memorial Hall and a reinternment of a WW11 veteran at the National Cemetery at 1:30.
New business consisted of the club voting to participate in the Scarecrow and Hay Bale decorating contests at the fair. Doris Ericson made the motion to participate in both contests, Deb Lust seconded the motion, motion carried Glenda Miller asked for volunteers to bring wrapped candy to the next meeting to make firecracker treats for Tri-Valley, Karen Peery, Letha Johnson, Doris Ericson volunteered. Glenda also announced that the Recognition Day has been cancelled, but Fall Follies will be held in Bronson this year.
Doris Ericson moved the meeting be adjourned, Deb Lust seconded the motion, motion carried, meeting adjourned. After the meeting Terri Williams presented the lesson on “Where is the Top of the world. Refreshments of food from that area was provided by Glenda Miller and Terri Williams.
Allen Schellack unboxes a fan at the ministry storage room.
EVERGY DONATES FANS TO THE SALVATION ARMY
Annual Donation Helps Those In Need
For the 5th year, The Salvation Army will be distributing fans for those without access to air conditioning or other means of staying cool during hot and humid weather. Fans are distributed by appointment at the local Salvation Army Extension Unit located at Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries Center/Bourbon County Senior Center, 26 N Main.
The fans are intended for elderly, disabled, and those who do not have a fan or air conditioning in their home and cannot afford to purchase one. To help the most people, each household is eligible for one fan. Applicants will need to provide ID and proof of address. Distribution will continue until all fans are distributed.
Evergy’s local gift of fans is part of a large contribution distributed throughout the communities it serves.
For further information, contact Allen Schellack at Fort Scott Compassionate Ministries, 620-223-2212.
Fans help relieve sweltering summer heat, but some days finding an air-conditioned space is the safest option. Stay aware of these heat safety tips and signs of heat illness.
Never leave children or pets alone in enclosed vehicles.
Slow down, stay indoors and avoid strenuous exercise during the hottest part of the day.
Take frequent breaks if working outdoors.
Use a buddy system when working in excessive heat.
Check on family, friends and neighbors who do not have air conditioning, who spend much of their time alone or who are more likely to be affected by the heat.
Check on animals frequently to ensure that they are not suffering from the heat. Ensure they have water and a shady place to rest.
Excessive heat can lead to sunburn, heat cramps, heat exhaustion and heat stroke. Avoid problems by drinking plenty of fluids and limiting drinks with caffeine or alcohol.
If someone is experiencing heat cramps in the legs or abdomen, get them to a cooler place, have them rest, lightly stretch the affected muscle and replenish their fluids with a half a glass (about 4 ounces) of cool water every 15 minutes.
If a person is exhibiting signs of heat exhaustion (cool, moist, pale or flushed skin, heavy sweating, headache, nausea, dizziness, weakness exhaustion), move them to a cooler place, remove or loosen tight clothing and spray the person with water or apply cool, wet cloths or towels to the skin. Fan the person. If they are conscious, give small amounts of cool water to drink. Make sure the person drinks slowly. Watch for changes in condition. If the person refuses water, vomits or begins to lose consciousness, call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number.
Signs include hot, red skin which may be dry or moist; changes in consciousness; vomiting; and high body temperature. Call 9-1-1 or the local emergency number immediately if some shows signs of heat stroke. Move the person to a cooler place. Quickly cool the person’s body by immersing them up to their neck in cold water if possible. Otherwise, douse or spray the person with cold water, or cover the person with cold, wet towels or bags of ice.
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About Westar Energy
As Kansas’ largest electric utility, Westar Energy, Inc. (NYSE:WR) provides customers the safe, reliable electricity needed to power their businesses and homes. We have 7,800 MW of electric generation capacity that includes renewables and traditional power sources with half the electricity supplied to our more than 700,000 customers from emissions free sources: nuclear, wind and solar, with a third coming from renewables. We are a leader in electric transmission in Kansas coordinating a network of lines and substations that supports one of the largest consolidations of wind energy in the nation. Our employees live, volunteer and work in the communities we serve. For more information about Westar Energy, visit us on the Internet at http://www.WestarEnergy.com. Westar Energy is on Facebook: www.Facebook.com/westarenergy and Twitter: www.Twitter.com/WestarEnergy. Westar Energy media line 888-613-0003.
About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army of Kansas and Western Missouri is and evangelical part of the universal Christian church established in 1865, supporting those in need in His name without discrimination. The organization provides assistance through a board array of social services ranging from food for the hungry, relief for disaster victims, assistance for the disabled, outreach to the elderly and ill, clothing and shelter to the homeless and opportunities for underprivileged children. For more information about the Kansas and Western Missouri Division of The Salvation Army, visit www.salarmymokan.org.
Governor Laura Kelly Announces $42 Million Investment to Support 30 Transportation Projects Statewide
TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly and Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz today announced that more than $42 million will support 30 transportation construction projects across Kansas through an expanded list of recipients of the Kansas Department of Transportation’s Cost Share Program for Spring 2021.
Cost Share is a component of the Kelly administration’s 10-year, bipartisan Eisenhower Legacy Transportation Program, or IKE. Cost Share is designed to help both rural and urban areas advance transportation projects to improve safety, support job retention and growth, relieve congestion and improve access and mobility.
“Infrastructure projects like the ones funded through Cost Share are a perfect example of how government can make smart investments that not only make our economy more dynamic and competitive, but also make Kansas a better place to live, work, and play,” Governor Kelly said. “Through this $42 million investment, 30 communities from every corner of our state will have safer roads, increased access to outdoor recreation, and the opportunity to modernize important historical landmarks.”
KDOT took advantage of 2020 federal coronavirus relief funds by doubling the available Cost Share funding for this round. Selection criteria was adjusted to take into account hardships caused by the pandemic and points were added to communities that endured above-average economic loss.
KDOT is investing $21 million in this cycle of Cost Share with recipients contributing a 50/50 match of $21 million.
Secretary Lorenz said demand for Cost Share transportation dollars remains strong, especially after the “long, tough year we’ve been through.” She said 117 communities requested more than $103 million in funding for this, the fourth round of the Cost Share program.
“Despite that tough year, I couldn’t be more impressed with the record level of local contribution – proving we are stronger when we work together,” Secretary Lorenz said. “Thanks to the KDOT team and our local partners, we are moving quickly to expedite the delivery of projects.”
Today’s announcement was made via video (VIEW HERE) highlighting the wide range of investments made possible under the IKE program.
Voters at Bourbon County Clerk’s Office in a prior election…
Next Tuesday, June 1, is the last day for candidates to file for the upcoming Bourbon County elections. The deadline is noon.
“We have the paperwork for anyone wanting to file,” Kendell Mason, Bourbon County Clerk said.
As of May 25, the following have filed to run:
For the Fort Scott City Commission – Matthew Wells and Michael Hoyt.
For the Bronson City Council – Clearsia Botts.
For Uniontown Mayor – Bill Marlow.
For Redfield Mayor – Wilma K. Graham.
For Redfield City Council – Kirby Martin and Michael Beerbower.
For Mapleton Mayor – Ronald B. Burton Jr.
For Mapleton City Council – Mike Blevins and Homer Wisdom.
For USD 234 Position #4 – David Stewart
For USD 235 Position #6 – Tyler J. Martin
For FSCC Board of Trustees- John Bartelsmeyer and Bill Meyer.
The following is information for the 2021 Bourbon County Election and the positions up for election supplied by the county clerk.
All the filing deadlines, for each entity, is noon June 1st, 2021.
The filing location is the Bourbon County Clerk office, 210 S. National, Fort Scott.
The General Election will be on November 2, 2021.
In the city of Fort Scott, there are three city commission members, two of which are for four-year terms and one for two years. The filing fee is $20 or petition signed by not less than 25 qualified electors of Fort Scott and state filing fee of $50.
If more than 9 qualified candidates file there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
Up for election in Bronson is the mayor position and two council members, all four-year terms. There is a filing fee of $20 or a petition signed by no less than 10 qualified electors of Bronson for Bronson.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for Mayor or more than 6 qualified candidates file for Council, then there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
Those positions up for election in Fulton are the mayor and five council members, all four-year terms.
The filing fee of $20 or a petition signed by no less than 5 qualified electors of Fulton.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for mayor or more than 15 qualified candidates file for council then there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
For Uniontown and Redfield the positions of mayor and two council members are up for election, all four-year terms. There is a filing fee of $20 or a petition signed by no less than 20 (10%) of qualified electors of Uniontown for Uniontown.
A petition signed by no less than 10 qualified electors of Redfield for Redfield.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for mayor or more than 6 qualified candidates file for council, then there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
For Mapleton, the mayor and two council members are up for election, all four-year terms.
There is a filing fee of $20 or a petition signed by no less than 2 qualified electors of Mapleton for Mapleton.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for Mayor or more than 6 qualified candidates file for council, then there will be a Primary on
For the Southwind Extension District, there are 2 positions, both for four-year terms. There is a filing fee of $20.
For the Fort Scott School District, there are three positions, all for four-year terms.
The filing fee is $20 or a petition signed by no less than 50 qualified signatures of registered voters in the position for the USD #234 District.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for any one position, then there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
For the Uniontown School District, there are three positions, all four-year terms.
There is a filing fee of $20 or a petition signed by no less than 50 qualified signatures of registered voters in the position for the USD #235 District.
If more than 3 qualified candidates file for any one position, then there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
For Fort Scott Community College there are three positions, all four-year terms. The filing fee is $20.
If more than 9 qualified candidates file there will be a Primary on August 3, 2021.
Any person wishing to file for any office must be a qualified elector of the corresponding city or school district.
If filing by petition, the petition must be turned in within 180 days after the first signature was collected, but no later than noon on June 1st, 2021.
Governor Laura Kelly Directs Flags be Flown at Half-staff for Memorial Day
TOPEKA – In accordance with Executive Order #20-30, Governor Laura Kelly has directed that flags be lowered to half-staff throughout the state effective from sunup until noon on Monday, May 31, 2021, in recognition of Memorial Day.
“On Memorial Day, let us all come together to honor and remember the women and men in the U.S. Armed Forces who lost their lives protecting our freedom and our way of life,” Governor Kelly said. “Today and every day, we owe them our gratitude.”
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee hosted by the Fort Scott High School Strength & Performance Program, Thursday, May 27th at 8 a.m. located at the FSHS Gymnasium, 1005 S. Main St. Attendees should enter through the northwest doors of the gym facing 10th Street.
Jared Martin, FSHS Strength & Performance Coach, is excited to showcase the program’s top-notch facility at Fort Scott High School. The USD-234 school board and administrators have made a considerable investment in the development of student’s health and performance. A summer program will be starting soon and for students ranging from 11-18 years of age. The focus for middle school students is to provide high quality opportunities for them to learn how to train properly in a fun and exciting environment. The high school age group will focus on performance enhancement as we build team chemistry and comradery through training together.
Homemade sticky bun-style cinnamon rolls and homemade sausage rolls reminiscent of Johnson’s at the old Daylight Donuts will be served. Fresh fruit and coffee from Common Ground will be provided as well. Along with that, there will be a variety of Tiger gear giveaways.
Chamber members and guests are invited to Chamber Coffee events each Thursday at 8 a.m. to network, make announcements, hear about happenings in the community as well as learn about the host business or organization.
Norman J. “Shorty” Spencer, age 92, a former resident of Ft. Scott, Kansas and more recently of Prescott, Arizona, passed away Friday, May 21, 2021, in Arizona. Funeral services will be announced by the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.
Kansas Leaders Highlight Benefits of Renewable Energy on the State’s Workforce
Panel addressed job creation and economic benefits through wind and solar energy growth
Wichita, KS – Boost Kansas hosted a panel discussion today that took a closer look at job creation and career development in the clean energy sector. The virtual event, “Boosting Kansas’ Workforce Through Renewable Energy,” featured local leaders in education, industry, and workforce experts today who highlighted that Kansas is well-positioned to lead the nation’s transition to renewable energy generation.
The Kansas Department of Commerce’s International Deputy Director, Randi Tveitaraas Jack, kicked off the conversation, “Renewable energy has brought remarkable economic opportunity to Kansas. It has put us on the map as a hub for specialized manufacturing and helped attract new business in search of clean energy to our state.”
Kansas ranks second in the nation in share of electricity generated by renewables, accounting for 42 percent of the state’s energy generation – enough to power 2.2 million homes.
“In a time of uncertainty with the pandemic on our heels, one thing the state can count on is renewables and its expected growth at the national scale,” said Riley Scott, Executive Director of Boost Kansas.” Our state’s natural resources along with the advancing renewable energy sector will play an integral role in boosting the state’s economy, setting an example for other states to follow.”
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that wind and solar technicians are two of the fastest growing jobs in the nation. Supporting 3,000 jobs in Kansas, wind and solar energy provide unparalleled opportunities for workforce expansion.
Kristin Brighton, founder of HirePaths added, “By providing young Kansans with the right opportunities and proper training, the renewable energy sector can provide opportunities to retain young people in our state while adding diversity to our local economies.”
“Renewable energy not only creates direct jobs, it creates workforce opportunities up and down the supply chain,” said Michael White of The Kansas Contractors Association. “The benefits of renewables in Kansas extend far beyond what meets the eye.”
With more than $13 billion invested in the state, clean energy industry provides $52.5 million in annual revenue for state and local governments and another $32.3 million in annual lease payments to landowners – offering a stable source of income for farmers and ranchers during unprecedented weather events.
Kansas has 41 wind projects and 1,104 solar installations across the state. With more projects in the works, renewable energy will play an integral role in creating jobs and stimulating economic activity in local communities.
“Pitt State does its part to keep Kansas on the map for its renewable energy excellence by helping to fuel its workforce,” said Shawn Naccarato, Chief Strategy Officer at Pittsburg State University. “I am proud to be a part of an institution that champions the renewable energy sector and all of its benefits for future generations.”
To set up an interview with a panelist or speak with a Boost Kansas representative, please contact Riley Scott at [email protected] or (785) 766-3885.
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About Boost Kansas
Boost Kansas, an initiative of the American Clean Power Association, is a statewide coalition of civic and business leaders supporting innovative policies that expand renewable and wind energy investment in the state. With commonsense federal and state policies, Kansas can continue to be a national leader in harnessing the power of wind and renewable energy development. Learn more at BoostKansas.com
About the American Clean Power Association
The American Clean Power Association (ACP) is the voice of companies from across the clean power sector that are providing cost-effective solutions to the climate crisis while creating jobs, spurring massive investment in the American economy and driving high tech innovation across the United States. ACP works to transform the U.S. power grid to a low-cost, reliable and renewable power system. By uniting the power of wind, solar, transmission and storage companies, along with manufacturers and construction companies, developers and owners/operators, utilities, financial firms and corporate purchasers, we are championing policies that enable the continued and aggressive growth in renewable energy in the United States. Visit ACP’swebsite to learn more about the enormous economic benefits renewable energy brings to America and be sure to follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
The City Commission will meet for a special meeting at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 25th, 2021 at City Hall in the City Commission meeting room at 123 South Main Street, Fort Scott, Kansas. The City Commission will meet to discuss the Taxable Industrial Revenue Bonds for Fort Scott Lofts, LLC. They will also discuss potentially amending the agreement that was previous awarded to Bettis Asphalt for the mill and overlay of National Avenue from 13th to Highway 69. An Executive Session for attorney-client privilege exception in K.S.A. 75-4319(b)(2) will also be held.
After the special meeting, at 7:00 p.m. the 2022 Budget Work session will begin.
