Bourbon County, Housing

How To Apply For Low Income Energy Assistance Program Benefits

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Applying for LIEAP?
The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) can help eligible households pay a portion of their primary home heating costs by providing a one-time per year benefit. LIEAP can help restore or maintain electricity, natural gas, propane and other home heating bills.
The application period begins
Jan. 20, 2026, at 8 a.m. and ends March 31, 2026 at 5 p.m.
Apply online at dcfapp.kees.ks.gov or get help in-person at an upcoming LIEAP event:
January 29 from 1-6 p.m. at the Fort Scott Public Library, at 2nd and National Avenue.
See the full schedule of LIEAP events at LIEAP.dcf.ks.gov
Please bring copies of the following information:
• Proof of income (earned and unearned) for anyone living in
the residence.
• Copy of all fuel bills (gas, electric, propane, etc.)
• Proof of child support payments received or the court order.
• If in subsidized housing, provide a copy of your rental
agreement.
• If your primary heating costs are included in your rent, provide
a copy of your rental agreement.
*Other information may be requested as needed.
LIEAP
**If your utility bills are in the landlord’s name, a copy of the lease
agreement must be provided.
LIEAP
Government

U.S. Congressman Derek Schmidt Legislative Update Jan. 12

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The second session of the 119th Congress is underway. This week, I joined in supporting the passage of the Affordable Homes Act (H.R. 5184), which would help communities build more homes and make homeownership more attainable for working families by eliminating redundant federal regulations that drive up housing costs for manufactured homes. The availability and affordability of housing for working families is a concern throughout our Second Congressional District, and steps like this can help with both. The House passed the bill, and I’m hopeful the Senate will follow suit.

The House also took another step toward finishing annual funding of the federal government by passing three more appropriations bills for Fiscal Year 2026: Commerce, Justice, and Science; Energy and Water; and, Interior and Environment. Together, the bills stop the continued increase in federal spending (actually reducing overall spending by about $2 billion) while also aligning more closely with President Trump’s priorities rather than President Biden’s. I am hopeful the Senate will approve these three bills next week, sending them to President Trump for his signature and enabling us to move on to the next several funding bills.

On Thursday, the House passed a 3-year extension of Obamacare COVID-era enhanced subsidies. I voted no. While I would be open to a reasonable compromise that temporarily extends enhanced subsidies while putting in place reforms that could help bring down healthcare costs for everybody – not just for people who buy insurance through the Obamacare exchange – extending these subsidies without reforms just kicks the can down the road. This bill already had been rejected by the Senate, so it stands little chance of becoming law. Perhaps the Senate can fashion a reasonable compromise; we will monitor what they do next. My goal is to take steps that can truly lower premiums and other healthcare costs and improve the quality of care for all Kansans, not just continue the same policies that have been in place while costs have soared.

Last week, the United States executed an arrest warrant for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. In my view, the operation was a remarkable testament to the professionalism and dedication of the men and women involved. There is no doubt Maduro’s regime supported the drug trade poisoning Americans in our communities, welcomed American adversaries from around the world into our hemisphere, and contributed to the deadly chaos at our southern border in recent years. I am carefully monitoring the situation as the Trump Administration proceeds with post-Maduro engagement in Venezuela.
Constituent Services

My team stands ready to help Kansans in the Second Congressional District who are dealing with unresolved federal issues. This includes assistance with the VA, Social Security, the IRS, and other federal agencies.

 

If you are experiencing an issue with a federal agency and need assistance, please call my office at (785) 205-5253 or fill out the form on our website.

As always, my office is here to serve you. Please do not hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns you may have. Be sure to also follow me on social media at the links below for timely updates from my office.

 

It’s a tremendous honor to represent our Second Congressional District in Congress!

Derek Schmidt

Member of Congress

Washington D.C. Office
1223 Longworth

House Office Building

Washington, DC 20515

Topeka Office

3550 SW 5th St.

Suite B

Topeka, KS 66606

Pittsburg Office

402 North Broadway St.

Suite B

Pittsburg, KS  66762
Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas

CHC/SEK Receives National Recognition for Excellence in Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention

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PITTSBURG, Kan. – The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) has received three American Heart Association achievement awards for its commitment to reducing the risk of heart disease and stroke by improving high cholesterol, Type 2 diabetes, and blood pressure management. The awards recognize a commitment to following the latest evidence-based care guidelines.

CHC/SEK received three achievement awards:

  • The American Heart Association’s Check. Change. Control. Cholesterol™ Gold Recognition
  • The American Heart Association’s Target: Type 2 Diabetes℠ Participation Recognition
  • Target: BP™ Gold+ Recognition jointly presented by the American Heart Association and the American Medical Association.

“We are proud to be recognized by the American Heart Association for our focus on Type 2 diabetes, cholesterol, and high blood pressure management and care,” said Brenda Stokes, CHC/SEK Vice President of Nursing and Quality Improvement. “We care for more than 15,000 patients with hypertension and almost 7,000 with diabetes. These recognitions underscore the incredible work of our staff and their commitment to providing quality healthcare to everyone.”

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, over 14% have diabetes, and more than 11% have high cholesterol. Research shows that these conditions occur at higher rates in rural communities and are significantly more likely to go uncontrolled.

“Unmanaged, these conditions can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke,” said Stokes. “At CHC/SEK, we focus on early detection, prevention, and helping patients take charge of their health. Often, small changes like taking the right medications or making simple lifestyle adjustments can make a big impact.”

Patients can receive comprehensive care for high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol at any CHC/SEK clinic. To find the nearest clinic, visit chcsek.org/our-communities.

###


About Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas
The Community Health Center of Southeast Kansas (CHC/SEK) serves as a healthcare hub for communities in Kansas and Oklahoma. CHC/SEK delivers quality, integrated care to nearly 90,000 patients each year with a goal of improving health, sustaining rural communities, and providing purpose-driven work to 950 staff members. Beyond healthcare, CHC/SEK finds innovative ways to improve lives by focusing on education, housing, and transportation. Regardless of income or insurance status, CHC/SEK ensures everyone receives the care they need. For more information, visit chcsek.org.

 

Fort Scott, Schools, Youth

FSHS Thespians Receive State Honors

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The Fort Scott High School Thespian Troupe #7365 brought home a number of honors from the 2026 Kansas Thespian Festival (KTF).

 

Students attended the festival with nearly 2,000 other students from across the state on Jan. 8-10 at the Century II Performing Arts and Convention Center in Wichita.

 

Sixteen students performed in the Thespy individual events competition with a record number of FSHS students receiving Superior ratings and qualifying to compete at the International Thespian Festival at Indiana University on June 21-26. Superior achievers include senior Levi Fairchild in both Duet Acting and Musical Solo, senior Junie Fisher – Musical Solo, senior Lily Brown – Short Film, senior Grace Walker – Stage Management, junior Ava Johnson – Solo Acting, junior Clark Uttinger – Duet Acting, and sophomore Gianna Gorman – Musical Solo.

 

“Kansas Thespian Festival has always been so fun and is always a great reminder of why I love theater,” Fisher said. “This year’s festival was truly a great way to close out my senior year!”

 

The troupe received the Gold Honor Troupe Award, the highest level of achievement for Thespian troupes in Kansas, based on performances, community, outreach, advocacy, and service from the past school year.

 

The Advanced Drama class performed the one-act play “When Bad Things Happen to Good Actors” by Ian McWethy and Jason Pizzarello. The troupe also presented a Lobby Display featuring photos and events from the past school year.

 

FSHS State Thespian Festival Board Members, senior Chris Newman and Juniors Ava Johnson and Allie Wards helped organize the festival as leaders.

 

“KTF taught me, challenged me, and reminded me why theatre matters so much to me. It’s not just something I love to do, it’s something that’s continuously changing my life,” said Wards.

 

FSHS Theatre Director Angie Bin taught a workshop entitled “From Burnout to Balance: Wellness for Theatre Teachers” and Bin as well as Assistant Theatre Directors Mesa Jones and Abby Starkey judged Thespy events performing at the festival. Bin, a member of the Kansas State Festival Board, also led the Competitive Improv Event and the Honor Troupe competition.

 

Students participated in a variety of workshops and classes throughout the festival learning about acting, technical theatre, dance, playwriting, and other theatre-related topics. Workshops were taught by theatre professionals from all over the country. Thespians also viewed mainstage and one-act productions from schools throughout the state. Students competed in events including Competitive Improv, Speed Charades, and Creative Costuming. Attendees also had the opportunity to meet with college theatre programs from across the country.

 

Brown said, “At KTF, I learned to embrace failure, and to use failure to my advantage, whether it be humorous or serious, I can use my failures as a way to bring life to my performances. In fact, failure is no longer a word I use to describe mishaps in my performances anymore, now I call them moments of opportunity.”

 

Sophomore Theodore Bowman added, “Going to KTF is more than an experience, it’s a bonding adventure full of new friends, incredible workshops, lots of laughs, and mind-blowing performances. KTF isn’t a theatre-filled field trip, it’s a weekend where emotions are inevitable, friends are everywhere, laughing is plenty, and memories are made.”

 

FSHS Theatre’s next event is auditions for Clue High School Edition on Jan. 12 and 13 with performances on March 5-7, 2026.

 

Photos and information about Troupe #7365 can be found at the Fort Scott High School Thespians Facebook page.

 

# # #

 

Contact: Angie Bin, [email protected], 620-719-9622.

 

International Thespian Festival qualifiers from left to right: Top – Clark Uttinger, Levi Fairchild, Lily Brown. Bottom – Ava Johnson, Junie Fisher, Gianna Gorman, Grace Walker.

 

 

Fort Scott High School Thespians attending the Kansas Thespian Festival from left to right: Top – Junie Fisher, Chris Newman, Clark Uttinger, Tray Maloun, Aimee Hardwick, Levi Fairchild, Tyffani Bolden, Michael Stevenson II. Middle – Abby Starkey, Theodore Bowman, Emma Marshall, Isis Patton, Lily Brown, Bonnie Esgar, Angie Bin. Bottom – Mesa Jones, Ava Johnson, Gianna Gorman, Allie Wards, Grace Walker, Landon McDaniel, Trinity Leihsing.

 

FSHS students compete in the Creative Costuming event: (from left to right) Isis Patton, Ava Johnson, Grace Walker.

 

Chris Newman and Ava Johnson in the one-act play “When Bad Things Happen To Good Actors.”

Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes

Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes Celebrates Highest Attendance Ever

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Jan 9, 2026

Vol. 1

Another Year of Impact:

Welcoming More Visitors Than Ever in 2025 🎉

In 2025, the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes welcomed almost 19,000 visitors, marking the highest attendance year in the Center’s history. Educators, students, families, community groups, and travelers from across the country and beyond came to Fort Scott to engage with stories of courage, compassion, and quiet leadership that continue to resonate across generations.

Nearly 19,000 visitors in 2025 —

The highest attendance year in LMC history! 📊

This milestone year reflected more than growing numbers—it reflected growing connections. Through guided group tours, educator visits, community gatherings, and special events, the Center became a place where people didn’t just learn history—they experienced it.

From the moving Anne Frank exhibition to educator events and new exhibit unveilings,

2025 brought new audiences together through the power of Unsung Heroes’ stories.

🚗❄️ A Winter Road Trip Favorite in Kansas

We’re excited to share that the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes was recently named one of the Top 5 Fun Winter Road Trip Stops in Kansas by The Topeka Capital-Journal.

This recognition reflects what visitors experience every day at the Center—engaging exhibits, powerful stories, and opportunities to connect with Unsung Heroes who shaped history. Whether you’re planning a family outing, an educator visit, or a winter road trip through southeast Kansas, we’d love to welcome you to Fort Scott.

👉 Plan your visit today:

📞 Phone: 620-223-1312

✉️ Email: [email protected]

🌟 The Discovery Award Keeps Growing

Over the past few years, the Discovery Award Competition has continued to grow—reaching more classrooms, inspiring more students, and bringing powerful Unsung Hero stories to life through project-based learning.

Each year, we’re amazed by the creativity, depth of research, and passion that students bring to their projects—whether through documentaries, performances, or websites. That momentum is what makes this competition so special, and we’re thrilled to begin receiving 2026 Discovery Award projects.

📚 Do you know an educator or student who would love this opportunity?

Please help us spread the word!

Share the Discovery Award with teachers, students, and schools in your circle and invite them to discover a hero, create a project, and make an impact.

Your Generosity Fuels Our Mission

For just $100, you can create a unique and enduring tribute to honor a hero in your life. By purchasing a brick, you not only create a lasting memorial but also support the Lowell Milken Center’s mission to share the remarkable stories of Unsung Heroes throughout history.

Your purchase is tax-deductible, as the Lowell Milken Center is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. We’ll promptly email you a printable certificate, making it a hassle-free and meaningful gift option.

Secure your brick today by visiting the Lowell Milken Center at 1 S. Main, Fort Scott, KS, or by submitting this form: https://bit.ly/brick_form. For more information, contact LMC at 620-223-1312.
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Opinion

Stay in Sync by Carolyn Tucker

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Keys to the Kingdom
By Carolyn Tucker

Stay in Sync

Have you ever watched a movie where the sound was not in sync with the actor’s lips? That drives me nuts! Or have you ever ridden at night with someone who didn’t use their headlights on high beam? That drives me bonkers and scares me all at the same time. One of the important rules I learned in driver’s ed was to not overdrive your headlights. If you’re driving faster than the distance your headlights allow you to see clearly, you’re overdriving your headlights; so you might not have enough time to react to that unexpected deer crossing the highway. If your speed and headlights are not in sync with each other, you may find yourself calling 911 and your friendly insurance agent.

When Christ followers run into a patch of spiritual fog, we need to slow down and get in sync with God. We don’t want to overdrive our life and speed past God as He waves a yellow flag at us. He knows the perfect lane of life that we’re supposed to travel upon. Whether we’re two steps ahead, or two steps behind, our goal should be to match God’s speed. When we’re in sync with Him, the peace of God quiets our minds and rests our hearts. We can put our hand in His and feel safe like a little child. God knows the way out of the fog and we can wholeheartedly trust Him to work on our behalf. “The Lord my God holds my right hand; He is the Lord, Who says to me, Fear not; I will help you!” (Isaiah 41:13).

In this new year, it’s good to be excited about new beginnings. However, believers need to be careful that we don’t go off half-cocked! We need to avoid the mistake of not praying about a new venture simply because of our enthusiasm. It’s vital to pause and ask God what He thinks about it. “I am one of God’s sheep and His sheep hear His voice” (John 10:27). He’s faithful to give us either a green light or a red light.

Christ followers shouldn’t give in to the temptation of arrogantly thinking we’re smart enough to run our lives by ourselves. Life will see to it that we don’t have what it takes to drive solo. “Pride lands me flat on my face, but humility prepares me for honor” (Proverbs 29:23 MSG).

When we’re presented with a new opportunity or need to make an important decision, many times a friend will say, “Sleep on it and see how you feel in the morning.” This is excellent advice because when we’re asleep, our minds are peaceful, clear, and at rest from thinking. Right before you fall asleep, you can ask God to give you the answer you need. “When I am deficient in wisdom, I ask of the giving God [Who gives] to everyone liberally and ungrudgingly, without reproaching or faultfinding, and it will be given to me” (James 1:5 AMP). It’s possible that when you awaken in the night, God will reveal the answer to you because your mind is at rest and ready to hear.

As believers read God’s Word, listen for His voice and obey, we are better able to stay in sync with Him. He is faithful to keep His promises and we can trust in His plan and purpose for our lives. Even when we’re in the dark, our heavenly Father knows every bend and hill on our journey.

The Key: Stay in sync with God and you’ll never overdrive your life.

Bourbon County

Jan. 12 Bourbon County Commission Agenda Summary

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The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.

Bourbon County Commission Meeting Agenda 01.12.26 Agenda

January 12, 2026 | 5:30 PM

Agenda Outline

  • 1. Call Meeting To Order (Page 1)

  • 2. Roll Call (Page 1)

  • 3. Pledge of Allegiance (Page 1)

  • 4. Prayer (Page 1)

  • 5. Oaths of Office (Page 1)

    • a. Commission District 5 – Mika Milburn-Kee

    • b. Commission District 4 – Greg Motley

  • 6. Reorganization of Board (Page 1)

    • a. Appoint Vice Chairman

    • b. Appoint Chairman

  • 7. Board Memberships (Page 1)

    • a. Fair Board

    • b. Juvenile Detention Center

    • c. SEK Area on Aging

    • d. SEK Regional Planning Commission

    • e. Soil Conservation (Advisory Only)

    • f. Southeast Kansas Health Department

    • g. SEK Mental Health Department (2 Positions)

    • h. Bourbon County Senior Citizens

  • 8. Liaison Assignments (Page 1)

    • a. Public Safety (EMS, Sheriff/Corrections, Emergency Management)

    • b. Public Works

    • c. Courthouse

    • d. Finance

  • 9. Approval of Agenda (Page 1)

  • 10. Approval of Minutes (Page 1)

  • 11. Approval of Consent Agenda (Page 1)

    • a. Tax Corrections

    • b. Accounts Payable (01.09.26) – $102,704.29

  • 12. Public Comments (Page 1)

  • 13. Executive Session (Page 2)

    • a. Personnel matters (K.S.A. 75-4319 (b)(1))

  • 14. Old Business (Page 2)

    • a. Handbook Review

  • 15. New Business (Page 2)

    • a. Disposition of Body (K.S.A. 22a-215) – Susan Walker, County Clerk

    • b. November 2025 Financials

  • 16. Build Agenda for Following Meeting (Page 2)

  • 17. Commission Comments (Page 2)

  • 18. Adjournment (Page 2)

Detailed Information Packet Summary

Commissioner Board Memberships (Page 3)

This section lists current Bourbon County representatives for various boards, including Samuel Tran for Senior Citizens and Mika Milburn for the Fair Board. These memberships are reviewed annually during the board reorganization.

Minutes from January 5, 2026 Meeting (Pages 4–9)

  • Introductions & Attendance: The meeting included a roll call of commissioners and a significant list of attending citizens.

  • Public Comments: * David Ranes submitted a noise complaint regarding Evolution Technology with supporting decibel readings.

    • Lora Holdridge (Register of Deeds) reported securing a deed from Legacy Health for the EMS building and expressed concerns regarding courthouse space allocation and an unresolved judgment against Waldrop Wireless.

    • Ben Hall discussed issues regarding a gas well on his property and alleged bullying/harassment by Evotech.

  • Executive Sessions: Several sessions were held to discuss attorney-client privileged information and non-elected personnel matters. No action was taken during most sessions, though one resulted in a motion to allow Commissioner Milburn to work with the new executive assistant.

  • Old Business:

    • Handbook Review: Discussion focused on Public Works policies regarding wearing shorts and taking vehicles home.

    • Sanitation & Moratorium: The Counselor provided updates on a sanitation violation and presented a draft resolution for a 180-day moratorium on new utility-scale power generation and data centers.

  • Resolutions Passed:

    • Res. 01-26: Adopted the Section 125 Plan (including retirees) and named Laura Krom as administrator.

    • Res. 02-26: Established 2026 holidays and paydays (passed 2-1).

    • Res. 03-26: Annual waiver of GAAP (Generally Accepted Accounting Principles).

    • Res. 04-26: Designated official depositories and publications.

    • Res. 05-26: Participation in the Rural Opportunity Zone student loan program.

    • Res. 06-26: Set weekly meeting times for Mondays at 5:30 PM.

    • Res. 07-26: Established a temporary 180-day moratorium on crypto mining, data centers, and specific power generation.

Financial Reports (Pages 10–136)

The packet contains extensive financial documentation for November 2025 and early January 2026:

  • Accounts Payable: Detailed lists of expenditures by department (e.g., Appraiser, Treasurer).

  • Fund Status Reports: Summaries of beginning balances, receipts, and disbursements for various county funds (General, Diversion, Employee Benefits).

  • Revenue and Expense Reports: A line-by-line breakdown of current budget versus actual year-to-date spending for all county departments and taxing districts (USD 234, local libraries, and townships).

Obituary

Obituary of Lorna L’Deana Slater

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Lorna L’Deana (DeVilbiss) Slater, 80, of rural Fort Scott, Kansas, passed away Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Mercy Hospital in Joplin, Missouri. She was born Tuesday, May 29, 1945, in Waynoka, Oklahoma, to Loren V. and Jesse M. (Buckland) DeVilbiss.

Lorna grew up on the family farm near Waynoka, helping raise Hereford cattle. She graduated from Waynoka High School in 1963 and later from the Oklahoma School of Banking and Business in Oklahoma City.

On October 22, 1964, she married Larry “John” Slater. They began their married life in Cashion, Oklahoma, followed by three years in Waynoka before making a big move in 1974 to a farm near Chetopa in southeast Kansas, where they lived for 30 years. They later moved to rural Fort Scott.

Over the years, Lorna worked for several school districts, including Cashion and Waynoka, Oklahoma, and later Chetopa, Kansas. Her most fulfilling work, however, was raising dogs on the farm. She raised Dachshunds, Corgis, and her favorite breed, the West Highland White Terrier. She especially enjoyed meeting the many people who came into her life through selling her puppies.

In addition to her love of farm life, Lorna and her family raised show lambs, an endeavor that connected her to 4-H and FFA kids and families. For many years, she clerked the annual show project sale, where she enjoyed visiting with families and encouraging young people. These show kids and their parents became an extension of her own family, and she took great pride in watching them succeed with their projects they purchased.

Lorna was an active member and Sunday School teacher at First Baptist Church in Edna, Kansas, and later the Hiattville Methodist Church in rural Fort Scott.

She treasured time spent with family, which often included a competitive game of dominoes. She enjoyed bus trips with local friends and never passed up a good garage sale, especially when accompanied by her friend Phyllis. Lorna proudly embraced her role as “Aunt Lorna,” always front and center at family gatherings to inspect the new prospective members.

She is survived by her husband, Larry “John” Slater, of the home; her daughter, Diane (Mark) Brillhart of Fort Scott, Kansas; her son, Daren (Tiffany) Slater of Dacoma, Oklahoma; grandsons Clay Brillhart of Fort Scott, Kaden Slater of Dacoma, and Kolby (Kaytin) Slater of American Fork, Utah; and great-grandson Emmett Slater. She is also survived by four step-granddaughters and their families: Jenny Brillhart (Joseph and Peyton) of Santa Rosa, Florida; Megan Brillhart (Vander and Jagger) of Fort Scott; Brianne Brillhart (Cooper) and Cameron Brillhart (Riley, Trevor, and Moe), all of Nevada, Missouri. She is further survived by her brother, Mac DeVilbiss of Yukon, Oklahoma, and numerous extended family members.

She was preceded in death by her parents and two brothers, Adrian and Glenn DeVilbiss.

A memorial service will be held at 10:30 A.M. Friday, January 23rd at the Grace Baptist Tabernacle, 502 S. Margrave St., in Ft. Scott, Kansas. On Saturday, January 24th family and friends will gather at 12:00 P.M. at the Waynoka Methodist Church, 110 Flynn St. Waynoka, Oklahoma. A graveside service will follow at 1:30 P.M. at the Memorial Hill Cemetery in Waynoka, Oklahoma. Memorials are suggested to the Hiattville United Methodist Church or the Memorial Hill Cemetery Association 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.

Fort Scott, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

What’s Happening In Fort Scott Jan. 9 Edition

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What’s Happening in Fort Scott! January 9th Weekly Newsletter

❄️The Glide Skating Rink is still open for winter hours! ⛸️ Bring your friends and family out to skate while the season lasts. Plus, the Hay Climb Slides are still up — enjoy them before they’re gone! ❄️

SAVE THE DATE!

Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce Chamber Coffees

Every Thursday at 8am

UPCOMING CALENDAR OF EVENTS

________________

Fort Scott National Historic Site

Visit your National Park! Visitor Center and historic buildings are open Friday through Tuesday, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. The grounds continue to be open daily from ½ hour before sunrise until ½ hour after sunset

** Guided tours Saturday & Sunday 10am & 1pm! **

Click HERE to visit the website.

Click here to see all the FUN classes at The Artificers, classes for ALL ages!

BINGO hosted by the American Legion Post 25 every 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month unless it falls on a holiday. Doors open at 6pm and Bingo starts at 7pm at Memorial Hall. (Taking the month of August off for BINGO & will start again in September)

KANSASWORKS in Fort Scott

Every Tuesday 9am-4pm

Office located at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team, 104 N. National Ave.

620-231-4250

FS Public Library

*Wednesday Writers every Wed. @ 1:30-3pm

201 S. National Ave.

Kansas Small Business Development Center

at the Chamber, 231 E. Wall St.

Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of the month from 9am-4pm.

Grief Share Support Grp – Mondays 5-7pm – Mary Queen of Angels Church, Rm 203 –

Jan 2nd – March 30th.

$3 Tuesdays at Fort Cinema!

Follow their Facebook Page HERE for updates!

UPCOMING EVENTS

Recurring Event
RETHL 2026 Ladies Doe Hunt “WEWE”

📆 Jan. 2 – Jan. 11

Enjoy this outdoor hunting event for ladies of all skill levels at Timber Hills Lake Ranch. Includes mentoring, meals, and lodging.

👉 More info & registration click HERE!

Saturday, Jan. 10

Pilates & Parfaits @ The Parlor🧘
🕛 10am

📍 The Parlor – next to The Kitchen C+C, 10 South Main St.

Recreation & healthy living session.

Learn how to Bake a Pie

🕛 12:00 PM – 2:00 PM

📍 First Southern Baptist Church, 1818 S. Main St.

A hands-on pie baking workshop (limit 16 participants, $10).

👉 RSVP/Info: Call Sandy Haggard at 620-365-2242 or email [email protected].

Sunday, January 11

Mahjong 101 – SOLD OUT

🕛2-4pm

📍 The Kitchen C+C

Introductory class on the classic tile game — fun and social learning.

👉 Details: https://thekitchencc.com/products/mahjong-101-beginner-class

Wednesday, January 14

KOMB/KMDO 103.9 Radio Auction Begins

📅 Jan. 14 | Time: TBD

📍 Local radio broadcast

Fundraising auction with unique items.
👉 Details: https://radioauction.kombfm.com/

Thursday, Jan. 15

Chamber Coffee hosted by FSCC – Martin Luther King Jr Celebration

Start your Thursday with coffee, connections, and community conversation with Friends of the Fort.

🕗 8:00 AM

📍 FSCC Ellis Fine Arts Center – 2108 S. Horton St.

Celebrate the Birthday of Dr. Martin Luther

King Jr.

🕛 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM

📍FSCC – Ellis Fine Arts Center

Tribute reading of Dr. King’s “Letter from Birmingham Jail” plus free lunch.

👉 Event page: https://www.facebook.com/events/1635207231196431

January Book & Cook Club

@ The Kitchen C+C

🕕 6:00 PM

📍 The Kitchen C+C

Community book discussion with 1960s-inspired hors d’oeuvres.

👉 Details & RSVP: https://thekitchencc.com/products/january-book-cook-club

Bourbon Country Conservation District 80th Annual Meeting

🕕 6:30 PM

📍 Cloverleaf Event Center 4-H Building at the BBCO Fairgrounds

Hors d’oeuvres sponsored by: City State Bank

NO RSVP Required.

BINGO hosted by the American Legion

🕖 7:00 PM – 9:00 PM

📍 Memorial Hall

Bingo & concessions (American Legion Post 25).

Saturday, Jan. 17

Self-Care Fair at Bourbon County Fair🎪

🕙 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM

📍 Cloverleaf Event Center – Bourbon County Fairgrounds

Health and wellness expo featuring self-care products and services.

👉 Event details: https://www.facebook.com/events/1338939541322018

Sunday, Jan. 18

Double Feat. Film Screening

🕟 4:30 PM – 6:00 PM

📍 Fort Scott Nazarene Church, 1728 Horton St.

Free community film screening event featuring two local films.

Monday, Jan. 19

Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday Celebration Event

🕘 9:00 AM – 2:00 PM

📍 Fort Scott Community College – Ellis Fine Arts Center

A day of service including a food drive, a free PBS documentary screening, and a Lunch & Learn on the Dockum Drugstore Sit-In with free gumbo lunch.

👉 Full Schedule: https://www.visitkc.com/events/martin-luther-king-jr-celebration-2026-schedule-of-events/

Junior Chefs Cozy Chicken Pot Pie Night

🕘 4-5:30pm

📍 The Kitchen C+C

Family cooking event for comfort food creation.👉 Details: Click HERE to RSVP!

Thursday, January 22

Chamber Coffee hosted by Brickstreet BBQ

Start your Thursday with coffee, connections, and community conversation with Friends of the Fort.

🕗 8:00 AM

📍 3 W. Oak St.

Thursday, Jan 23

Friendship Soup Luncheon in

Fellowship Hall
🕗 11:30am-1pm

📍 First United Methodist Church

Saturday, January 24

Little Chefs January Saturday Morning Cartoon Pancakes🥞

🕗 Time: Morning (check calendar for exact start)

📍 The Kitchen C+C

A fun Saturday morning event for kids — pancakes and cartoons! Great for families.

👉 More info: https://fortscott.com/events/calendar

Thursday, January 29

Chamber Coffee hosted by The Friends of the Fort

Start your Thursday with coffee, connections, and community conversation with Friends of the Fort.

🕗 8:00 AM

📍 FS National Historic Site, 199 Old Fort Blvd.

Kansas Day Celebration

📆 All day – Thursday, Jan. 29

🌟 Celebrate Kansas history and heritage with community activities marking Kansas Day.

👉 Event details & reminders: https://fortscott.com/events/details/kansas-day-01-29-2026-33180

January Book & Cook Club

@ The Kitchen C+C (Meeting 2)

🕕 6:00 PM

📍 The Kitchen C+C

Community book discussion with 1960s-inspired hors d’oeuvres.

👉 Details & RSVP: https://thekitchencc.com/products/january-book-cook-club

SHOPPING ~ SUPPORT LOCAL!

Boutiques-Antiques-Flea Markets & more!

Click here for Chamber member

specialty shopping & other retail in

Downtown & other areas of the community.
Fort Scott Area
Chamber of Commerce
In This Issue

Calendar of Events

Special Event Features

THANK YOU Chamber Champion members!!
Chamber Highlights
Click here for our
Membership Directory.
We THANK our members for their support! Interested in joining the Chamber?
Click here for info.
Thinking of doing business in or relocating to Fort Scott?
Contact us for a relocation packet, information on grants & incentives, and more!
Seeking a job/career?
We post a Job of the Day daily on our Facebook page, distribute a monthly job openings flyer, and post jobs on our website.
Many opportunities available!
Housing needs?
Click here for a listing of our Chamber member realtors.
Click here for our rental listing.

Upcoming Movie Schedule @ Fort Cinema
THANK YOU TO OUR CHAMBER CHAMPION MEMBERS!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce
231 E. Wall Street
Fort Scott, KS 66701
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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 U

Obituary

Obituary of William Homer “Bill” Douglas

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William Homer “Bill” Douglas Jr., 88, passed away on January 8, 2026, in Overland Park, Kansas. A beloved husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather and good friend to many, Bill lived a full and vibrant life.

Bill was born on December 14, 1937, in Rich Hill, MO, to William and Edith Douglas. Bill graduated from Rich Hill High School in 1955 before embarking on a career that spanned several decades. He began his professional journey with the Bank of Warsaw in Warsaw, MO. After moving to Fort Scott, KS in 1962, he began a job at Security State Bank followed by an 11-year tenure with the Western Insurance Companies. He later joined Citizens National Bank and served as a vice president and loan officer for 25 years until he retired in 1999. Alongside his civilian career, Bill served in the Army National Guard followed by the Army Reserves.

In 1960, Bill married Donna Carolyn (Goodenough), with whom he shared 65 years of love and companionship. Together they built a life filled with adventure and shared experiences. In their younger years, they enjoyed camping trips with their daughters to a range of locations, from Farlington Lake to Yellowstone to Florida. He and Donna later traveled to Hawaii, Alaska and every other state but North Dakota plus several European destinations and popular cruise locales. They wintered for nineteen years in Weslaco, TX, returning each year to reunite with their Texas friends and family. Of course, many trips were also made to Branson to sight-see, enjoy music, and take a few whirls on the dance floor to his favorite country song, “All My Exes Live in Texas.”

A man of faith, Bill was a founding member of Community Christian Church in Fort Scott, KS, where he served as both deacon and elder and often lent his voice to the church choir.  He and Donna later attended Rinehart Christian Church in Richards, MO.

Known for his wit and fun-loving spirit, Bill had a gift for bringing laughter into any room. Whether at work or among friends, he was always ready with a joke or light-hearted comment. His enthusiasm also extended into the outdoors—he had a passion for motorcycles and often took weekend biking trips with his buddies.

In addition to his wife, Donna (Goodenough) Douglas, other survivors include daughters Carolyn (Tom Blau) Jaqua, Kansas City, MO; Marilyn (Mitch) Yung, Springfield, MO. Surviving grandchildren and great-grandchildren include Lauren (Aaron) Hannon of Shawnee, KS and their three children, Hayes, Jane, and Ivy; Katherine (Andrija) Markovic, Overland Park, KS and their son, Matija; Collin (Gabby) Yung, Kansas City, MO; Ryan Jaqua, Lenexa, KS.

Rev. Kevin Moyers will conduct funeral services at 11:00 AM Monday, January 12th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. Burial will follow in the Evergreen Cemetery. The family will receive friends from 10:00 until service time Monday at the funeral home.  Memorials are suggested to Rinehart Christian Church and may be left in care of Cheney Witt Funeral Chapel, PO Box 347, 201 S. Main St., Fort Scott, KS 66701.  Words of remembrance may be submitted online at cheneywitt.com.

Bourbon County Local News