Minutes of the USD 234 Board of Education on March 10

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

NEWS RELEASE

Monday, March 9, 2026

 

Members of the USD 234 Board of Education met at 5:30 p.m. on Monday, March 2026, for their regular monthly meeting at 424 S Main St.

 

Vice President Stewart Gulager opened the meeting.

 

The board approved the official agenda, and the consent agenda as follows:

Board Minutes

                        02-09-2026

02-11-2026

Financials – Cash Flow Report

Check Register

Payroll – February 20, 2026 – $1,842,624.59

Activity Funds Accounts

USD 234 Gifts

Food Service Fundraiser

Archery Club Fundraiser

Boys Golf Fundraiser

 

Students, Junie Fisher, Clark Uttinger, and Levi Fairchild, from Fort Scott High School along with teacher, Angie Bin presented to the Board about their performances, events, and services.  They went through each of their performances and events that have happened over the last year. Also, the students have helped with the Food Bank and help lead the Middle School Drama Club. Angie Bin brought a few items that need updated and thanked the Board for their continued support.

Assistant Superintendent Terry Mayfield provided a shared document. Mr. Mayfield reviewed budget projections and summer projects. There was discussion with the Board about the Preschool building and construction that is happening.

 

Assistant Superintendent Zach Johnson updated the Board on State Assessment preparations that are underway.  He also discussed a couple bills and propositions that are being brought up by the state, he will keep the board updated as his is given information.

 

Special Education Director Tonya Barnes shared an update on Special Olympics on March 25.  Everyone was invited. She also updated on reports and payments that are happening soon.

 

The Board approved the following:

  • Health Insurance Refund
  • 10 Passenger Van Purchase
  • 2026-27 School Calendar (Pending Negotiations)
  • Approval of Graduation Requirements
  • High School Activity/Athletic Director Mentor Contract
  • KASB Membership Renewal 26-27
  • KASB Legal Assistance Fund Renewal 26-27
  • Sparkwheel MOU 26-28

 

The Board received an informational overview of Fort Scott USD 234’s Cost Containment planning. No board action was requested.

 

There were none present for the public forum.

 

The Board went into an executive session for personnel matters.

 

Vice President Stewart Gulager adjourned the meeting.

 

PERSONNEL REPORT – APPROVED

March 9, 2026

 

RESIGNATIONS/TERMINATIONS/RETIREMENTS:

Campbell, Marjorie – Resignation – SPED Teacher – High School

Dare, Jeremy – Resignation – Bus Driver

Lemcke, Hailey – Resignation – Paraprofessional – High School

Stewart, Mya – Resignation – Speech Paraprofessional – Winfield Scott

Coen, Jessica – Resignation – Teacher – PreSchool

Howard, Paulette – Retirement – Gifted/ESOL Teacher – MS/HS

Ables, Andrew – Resignation – Science – Middle School

Rainey, Taylor – Resignation – Special Education Teacher – Eugene Ware

Feeback, Brennen – Resignation – Social Studies – High School

Judy, Mercedes – Resignation – Teacher – Winfield Scott

 

SUPPLEMENTAL RESIGNATIONS:

Horton, Curtis – Assistant Football, Summer Conditioning – High School

Glades, Matt – Assistant Football, Summer Conditioning – High School

Feeback, Brennen – Head Boys Basketball, Assistant Football, Assistant Track, Summer Conditioning – High School

 

EMPLOYMENT:

 

Certified Recommendations for 2026-27 School Year:

Hughes, Madison – Physical Education Teacher – Winfield Scott

 

Classified Recommendations for 2025-26 School year:

Karleskint, Josh – Bus Driver

 

SUPPLEMENTAL RECOMMENDATIONS

Eastwood, Kim – K-5 Summer School Administrator

Farrington, Jannah – ESY Coordinator – grades 6-12

Hendricks, Caleb – 6-12 Summer School Administrator

Jones, Mesa – Assistant Play – Spring

Shoemaker, Billi Jo – ESY Coordinator – grades K-5

 

Administrator Contracts – Extended 27-28

Terry Mayfield – Assistant Superintendent

Tonya Barnes – Director of Special Education

Jeff Johnson – High School Principal

Josh Regan – High School Assistant Principal

Daniel (DJ) Brown – Middle School Principal

Matt Harris – Middle School Assistant Principal

Yasmina Query – Eugene Ware Elementary Principal

Brandon Boyd – Eugene Ware Elementary Assistant Principal

Chris Garzone – Winfield Scott Elementary Principal

Nick Johnson – Preschool Principal

 

K-State Extension Launcehs “Passport to Fun: Spring Break Edition” for Local Youth by Kendal Henson

As spring break approaches, families across the Southwind District have a new reason to get excited. k_State Extension is rolling out Passport to Fun: Spring Break Edition,k an immersive, hands-on learning adventure designed especially for youth ages 7 to 12.

This four-day program invites young explorers to “travel the world” without ever leaving their community. Each session highlights four different countries and blends movement, creativity, science, and cuisine to give participants a rich, memorable cultural experience. From crafting and cooking to interactive activities and global discovery, the camp aims to spark curiosity and broaden horizons.

A Four-City Tour Across the District

To make the program accessible to families throughout the region, the K-State4 Extension team is hosting sessions in four different communities:

  • March 16 – Ft. Scott @Buck Run, 1010 Park Avenue
  • March 17 – Chanute @ City Park pavilion, 101 S. Forest Avenue
  • March 18 – Yates Center @ Community Building, 711 S. Fry St.
  • March 19 – Moran @ Iola extension office, 1006 N. State St.

Each session runs from 1-4 PM, offering an afternoon packed with global exploration and hands-on fun.

Encouraging Curiosity Through Experience

The program’s design reflects K-State Extension’s commitment to experiential learning. By blending physical activity, creative expression, scientific inquiry, and culinary exploration,k Passport to Fun gives kids a chance to learn in ways that fell like play. It’s an opportunity for youth to build confidence, try new things, and develop a broader understanding of the world.

Registration Now Open

Families interested in securing a spot can register online at the following link provided by K-State Extension: https://bit.ly/PassportToFunCamp. Space is limited, and registration closes March 10, 2026.

With its blend of education and adventure, Passport to Fun: Spring Break Edition promises to be a highlight of the season for young learners across the Southwind District.

Obituary of Patricia Ann Price

PATRICIA  ANN  PRICE

Patricia Ann (Mudd) Price, 94, of Fort Scott passed away Saturday, March 7, 2026, at the Creedo Senior Living Center in Fort Scott. She was born in Fort Scott, the daughter of Burton J. and Eunice Louise Shelton Allen. She graduated with the Class of 1949 from Fort Scott High School. She married Carl A. Price on August 26, 1951, in Fort Scott, Kansas, He preceded her in death on September 2, 2006.

She served as Clerk for the Probate and Juvenile Bourbon County Judge for 12 years, and she served as Head Teller for Citizens National Bank for 22 years, retiring on July 1, 1999. She and Carl enjoyed Square Dancing with the Iza Stompers Square Dance Club of Fort Scott for many years. She was a member of the Community Christian Church.

Pat is survived by her daughter, Amy Ann Bass of Joplin, Missouri, a son, Randy Lee Price of Deerwood, Minnesota, six grandchildren, eleven great-grandchildren, and one great great-grandchild. In addition to her husband, Carl, Pat was preceded in death by an infant daughter, Mary Beth Price, a son, Terry Allen Price, a daughter-in-law, Melissa Price, and a granddaughter, Megan (Price) Werner.

Pastor Tim Woodring will officiate funeral service for Pat on Wednesday, March 11, 2026, at the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home. The Family will receive friends from 1:00 pm Wednesday until 2:00 pm. The funeral will begin at 2:00 pm Wednesday. Private burial will be in the Memory Gardens of Bourbon County Cemetery.

The family suggests memorial contributions to the Multiple Sclerosis Society, donations may be left in the care of the Konantz-Cheney Funeral Home, 15 West Wall Street, P.O. Box 309, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701.  Friends and family may sign the online guest book and share memories at www.konantzcheney.com.

Obituary of Dr. George Phillip Barker

Dr. George Phillip Barker, PhD, affectionately known as Phil to his friends and family, passed away peacefully on March 2, 2026, in Ft. Scott, Kansas. Born on April 3, 1941, in Atlanta, Georgia, Phil’s journey through life was marked by his insatiable curiosity, his love for learning, and his dedication to sharing his knowledge with others.

Phil was predeceased by his mother, Nellie Mae Latham, his father, George Scott Barker, and his step-father, Clarence Cullen Wofford. He leaves behind his beloved wife, Janice, his cherished step-children, and adored step-grandchildren, who will forever remember his gentle guidance and unwavering support.

Phil’s academic journey began at Tulane University in New Orleans, where he received his Bachelor of Science in 1963. His passion for mathematics led him to the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a Master of Science in Mathematics in 1964, and later, a Doctor of Philosophy in 1969. His pursuit of excellence in mathematics was recognized by his induction as a charter member of the Pi Mu Epsilon Fraternity Louisiana Gamma and his association with the Sigma Xi Wisconsin Chapter in 1969.

For over three decades, Dr. Barker served as a professor at the University of Missouri UMKC, where he inspired countless students with his love for mathematics. His commitment to education was paralleled by his sense of civic duty, as he also served the community as a reserve officer for the Miami County Kansas Sheriff’s Department in Paola.

Phil’s interests extended far beyond the classroom. He was an avid traveler, embarking on educational trips to China, Turkey, Ireland, Germany, and Mexico, where he visited his graduate students and participated in mathematics conferences. His intellectual pursuits were complemented by his passion for history and his role as a registered gun collector, a hobby that allowed him to connect with fellow enthusiasts and preserve pieces of history.

Those who knew Phil would describe him as loving, kind, and intelligent—a man who approached every situation with a warm heart and a sharp mind. His legacy is one of dedication to his family, his students, and his community.

Dr. Barker’s life was a tapestry woven with the threads of academia, service, and personal interests, creating a rich and vibrant legacy. He will be deeply missed by all who had the privilege of knowing him, yet his spirit will continue to inspire those who walk the path he once did.

Phil’s life story is a testament to the impact one individual can have on the lives of many. His memory will be cherished and his contributions to the world of mathematics and to the hearts of his loved ones will endure. Dr. George Phillip Barker’s life was a beacon of knowledge and kindness, illuminating the way for future generations. Rest in peace, Phil, knowing that your journey was meaningful, your presence valued, and your memory everlasting.

At Phil’s request, there was cremation and no formal services will be held at this time.  Arrangements were under the direction of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, Ft. Scott, Kansas.

Newsletter From U.S. Senator Jerry Moran

 


Capitol Tour

David Huddleston of Tribune

Joyce Huddleston of Tribune

Kay Klassen of Hillsboro

Adam McElroy of Overland Park

Elizabeth McElroy of Overland Park

Greg Schulewitz of Overland Park

Henry Schulewitz of Overland Park

Karol Schulewitz of Overland Park

Agriculture Retailers Association

Ted Behring of Isabel

Jami Loecker of Manhattan

Scott Morris of Senneca

Devin Schierling of Inman

Dave Spears of Valley Center

AMA Medical Students

Ella Wright of Kansas City

Lauren St. Peter of Kansas City

American College of Surgeons

Josh Brughamm of Farway

Katelyn Sanner Dixon of Gardner

John Sullivan of Kansas City

American Endurance Ride Conference

Monica Champan-Pickett of Pleasanton

Ducks Unlimited

Mike Bulk of Sabetha

Jeff Irvine of Easton

Lynne Rozine of Kansas City

GO2 Lung Cancer Voices Summit

Michael Scanlon of Overland Park

FAST and ASF

Colin Sargent of Leawood

Laura Sargent of Mission Hills

Patrick Sargent of Mission Hills

Fight Colorectal Cancer

Beth Kornegay of Shawnee

Gold Star Wife of America

Barbara Burt of Manhattan

Harvesters

Karla Hagemeister of Manhattan

Elizabeth Keever of Lawrence

Brian Walker of Wichita

Humanities Kansas

Julie Mulvihill of Topeka

Tracy Quillin of Topeka

Ginger Williams of Hays

Kansas Association of Broadcasters

Justin Antoniotte of Kansas City

Brook Arnold of Pittsburg

Ross Brokke of Olathe

Roxanne Marati of Mission

Philip McComb of Wellington

Kansas Chapter of The Nature Conservancy

Mandy Frank of Topeka

Kansas State Historical Society

Elizabeth Rosin of Kansas City

Kansas Veterans of Foreign Wars

Jay Boyle of Wichita

Charlie Cravens of Winfield

David J. Huddleston of Tribune
Rick McKenna of Springhill

John Muckelbauer of Kansas City

Joyce Huddleston of Tribune

Kansas YMCA

Jennifer Bruning of Kansas City

Jackie Regan-Gaucin of Dodge City

Kelly Hills/Thales/Onaga Hospital

Lukas Koch of Seneca

Mindy Olberding of Onaga

Leavenworth Waterworks

Lisa Haack of Leavenworth

Joel Mahnken of Leavenworth

Eric Peterson of Leavenworth

Chad Tenpenny of Leavenworth

Livestock Marketing Association

Kevin Thielen of Lebo

National Association of Chain Drug Stores

Mercy Chepleting of Leavenworth

National Association of Insurance and Financial Advisors

Hilary Aubey of Topeka

Cassie Johnson of Olathe

Brittany Williams of Topeka

National Bleeding Disorders Foundation

Kelly Wornall of Lenexa

National Council of Juvenile and Family Court Judges

Jenifer Ashford of Olathe

National Parent Teacher Association

Devin Wilson of Shawnee

National Treasury Employees Union

Jennifer Chapin of Mission Hills

Megan Hayes of Overland Park

Aisha Obiri King of Overland Park

Daniel Scharpenburg of Overland Park

Barrett Woods of Mission Hills

National Wildlife Federation

Cory Hatcher of Syracuse

Treg Hatcher of Syracuse

One Voice Against Cancer

Christina Coward of Lawrence

Anne Zajic of Topeka

PKD Foundation

Susan Bushnell of Overland Park

Nicole Harr of Overland Park

Stephen Parnell of Shawnee

Gabriella Sage of Lawrence

PrairieStar Health

Bryant Anderson of Hutchinson

Tourette Association of America

Laurel Jenson of Overland Park

Robin Jenson of Overland Park

Kaden Mielitz of Manhattan

Tuberous Sclerosis Complex Advocates

Alexandra Dahlgren of Prairie Village

Sikorsky

Jarrod Bartlett of Wichita

Malissa Nesmith of Wichita

State Library of Kansas

Allie Lousch of Topeka

University of Kansas Education Dean

Rick Ginsberg of Lawrence

Lisa Wolf-Wendel of Lawrence


 

Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
Manhattan
1880 Kimball Avenue,
Suite 270
Manhattan, KS 66052
Phone: (785) 539-8973
Fax: (785) 587-0789
Olathe
23600 College Blvd.,
Suite 201
P.O. Box 1154
Olathe, KS 66061
Phone: (913) 393-0711
Fax: (913) 768-1366
Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building
Room 521
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-6521
Fax: (202) 228-6966
Wichita
100 North Broadway,
Suite 210
Wichita, KS 67202
Phone: (316) 269-9257
Fax: (316) 269-9259

Garden City
312 N. 8th Street, Suite B
Garden City, KS 67846
Phone: (620) 260-3025

Pittsburg
306 N. Broadway, Suite 125 (rear entrance of bank)
P.O. Box 1372
Pittsburg, KS 66762
Phone: (620) 232-2286
Fax: (620) 232-2284

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FORT SCOTT MEN’S BASKETBALL WINS THREE STRAIGHT GAMES

ADVANCES WITH MOMENTUM

Fort Scott, KS – Fort Scott Community College closed a pivotal week with three consecutive victories, capped by a 65–62 win over Allen County on Saturday, continuing a late-season surge that has the Greyhounds playing their best basketball of the year.

Fort Scott opened the week with a 76–63 home win over Kansas City Kansas Community College. Hollis led the way with 16 points and seven assists, while Hastings added 22 points, including four three-pointers. The Greyhounds shot 48 percent from the field and 50 percent from beyond the arc. Fort Scott controlled both halves, leading 38–31 at halftime and maintaining its advantage throughout. Miles McMonigle contributed 11 points off the bench.

Head Coach Matt Glover praised the team’s effort and unity throughout the run.

“Our guys came to play; they’ve come together and done this all year. We’re built different!” Glover said.

On March 6, Fort Scott handed Johnson County a rare defeat, pulling away in the second half for a 73–61 upset. Hastings delivered another standout performance with 26 points and five three-pointers. Jadyn Hollis added 14 points, and Noah Porter scored 13 on efficient 5-of-7 shooting. The Greyhounds overcame a 34–32 halftime deficit by outscoring the Cavaliers 41–27 after the break. Defensively, Fort Scott limited Johnson County to just 1-of-21 shooting from three-point range.

Assistant Coach Caleb Ligon said the team’s chemistry and resilience have been key to the recent success.

“The guys played a phenomenal game; this is a testament to them. We’ve been through the heart of it, through ups and downs, and they’ve stayed together. The chemistry is probably the best I’ve ever been around, we’re just fighting for another chance to play together,” Ligon said.

The Greyhounds completed the three-game stretch on March 7 with a hard-fought 65–62 victory over Allen County. Makaen Hastings once again led the way with 23 points, knocking down three three-pointers and going a perfect 2-for-2 at the line. Fort Scott built a 31–22 halftime lead and held off a late push from Allen County to secure the win. J’Twane Mike added seven points and dominated the glass with 13 rebounds, while Miles McMonigle chipped in nine points off the bench. Fort Scott finished the game 23-of-57 from the field.

Assistant Coach Dominick Budy said the team’s response to adversity during the season helped prepare them for this moment.

“This game showed a lot about our team. We faced adversity through the middle of conference, but our guys battled and showed what they’re about,” Budy said.

Fort Scott, now 18–14, has produced one of its strongest stretches of the season, highlighted by balanced scoring, improved three-point shooting, and consistent defensive pressure. Hastings averaged more than 23 points across the three wins, while Hollis directed the offense with 16 total assists during the stretch.

Sophomore guard Jaylen Calloway reflected on the journey the team has taken this season and the opportunity that still lies ahead.

“I want to speak on the whole season. We had a lot of rainy days, but our thing as a team is to not let the rainy days turn into floods. God believed in us and we earned another day to compete. We plan to keep proving why we deserve to be here. Go Hounds!” Calloway said.

With the three-game winning streak, the Greyhounds advance further into the Region VI postseason and will await their next tournament opponent.

 

Legislative Update by State Senator Caryn Tyson

Caryn Tyson

March 6, 2026

 

Budget Overspending continues.  As with any budget, there seems to always be good, bad, and just downright ugly.  This budget wasn’t as bad as we have seen in the past, but it still spends more than is projected to be collected in taxes.  The legislature must pass a budget, and doing so responsibly means confronting an uncomfortable truth: there is a pattern of spending increases that outpaced taxes to be collected, especially in discretionary programs that lack clear performance metrics.  Some of this spending is a result of the billions of federal COVID dollars that we were assured were one time spends and would not burden Kansas taxpayers.  The budget passed the Senate 21 to 19.  I voted no on this government growth.  The Senate and House budget committee leaders will now meet to work out differences for a final budget.

 

Welfare benefits were established to help those in need.  The fraud and abuse of these programs is occurring at a staggering rate.  Just look at Minnesota, where billions of dollars were fraudulently stolen.  Kansas is acting to stop fraud and abuse by strengthening the eligibility rules and work requirements of programs such as SNAP (food stamps), Medicaid, TANF and other programs.  Another provision in SB 363 makes it so people who are permanently disabled would only have to file once, not annually as they do now.  Kansans support safety net programs to be preserved for those who truly need them, and SB 363 does that.  It passed the Senate 25 to 13.  I voted yes.

 

An Emergency Declaration for the wildfires in south central and southwestern Kansas.  There were some counties in the 12th Senate district also included in HCR 5033, allowing for exemptions on weight limits and other such restrictions to transport hay and items needed because of the fires.  It passed the Senate unanimously.

 

Elections would be more secure by verifying signatures of mail-in ballots.  While it may seem obvious that such a safeguard should already be standard practice, legislation is needed to codify it.  SB 394 would also allow another individual to sign a voter’s ballot envelope when the voter is unable to sign personally.  It passed 26 to 11.  I voted yes.

 

Electronic devices would be prohibited in Kansas schools by requiring each district to adopt a policy that removes cell phones, tablets, smart watches, and other personal communication devices from classroom use.  Senate Substitute for HB 2299 would also require district policies governing social‑media platforms. Limited exceptions would be permitted.  For example, when a student needs a device to remind them to take medication or when a school‑issued device is required for instructional purposes.  Research consistently shows that reading on paper yields better comprehension and retention than reading on most electronic devices.  The legislation was drafted to avoid excessive bureaucracy while delivering safety benefits by restricting non‑educational electronic devices use at school.  Parents, school administrators, and other stakeholders can help refine the policy at the local level.  It passed 32 to 4.  I voted yes.

 

Federal Law Enforcement and their vehicles would be treated as Kansas law‑enforcement officers if SB 452 becomes law. The bill also creates a new misdemeanor that prohibits anyone from approaching within 25 feet of a police officer, EMT, or firefighter after being given a visual or audible signal to stay back.  Proponents say the measure closes gaps between state and federal policing authority, while critics argue it could impinge on civil liberties because it criminalizes proximity to officers who are performing their duties. Although individuals may still be present in the vicinity and may record the activity, they must remain at least 25 feet away once an officer signals them to do so.  The bill passed 31 to 7.  I voted yes.

 

It is an honor and a privilege to serve as your 12th District State Senator.

Caryn

From the Bleachers – 754 by Dr. Jack Welch

FROM THE BLEACHERS-754

BY DR. JACK WELCH

The GED That Changed Everything

Sometimes success doesn’t start with a scholarship, a draft pick, or a headline. Sometimes it starts with one simple step, a person realizing they are capable of more than they ever believed. Javon Kinlaw’s story reminds us of that.

Before he became a first-round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, Kinlaw was a kid growing up in Washington, D.C., often without a stable place to live. His family struggled financially, and there were times when home meant a friend’s basement or wherever they could find shelter. Some nights there was no electricity. At times he rode the subway just to stay warm.

Life was survival. School wasn’t always a priority, and like many young people facing difficult circumstances, Kinlaw fell behind academically. Opportunities began slipping away, even though he had the physical talent that college football programs wanted.

Something happened that changed the direction of his life. Someone gave him a chance, and it began with a GED program at a junior college in Mississippi. For Kinlaw, that step mattered far more than people might realize. Earning his GED did something powerful. It showed him that he could do it. It gave him proof that he was capable of finishing something that once felt impossible.

That moment created belief. Once he had that belief, things began to change. He enrolled at Jones College, continued his education, and developed his football skills. Soon after, he transferred to the University of South Carolina, where he became one of the best defensive linemen in college football.

Not long after that, his name was called in the first round of the NFL Draft. This is amazing, but the real turning point wasn’t the draft stage or the million-dollar contract. It was the moment he earned his GED and realized his future didn’t have to look like his past.

Community colleges and GED programs change lives every day because they give people that same moment of realization. They give someone who may have stumbled a second chance to discover their own ability. Sometimes all it takes is one open door and the courage to walk through it. For Javon Kinlaw, that door was a GED program.

Once he walked through it, everything changed.

 

Thought for the Week,Never underestimate what can happen when opportunity meets perseverance and someone is willing to believe in you before you fully believe in yourself.” Ronnie Vinklarek, professional coach and motivational speaker.

 

Dr. Jack Welch serves as President of Fort Scott Community College. With a career spanning professional sports, public education, and rural community development, he brings a servant-leader mindset and a passion for building trust-driven cultures that empower people to thrive in the classroom, on the field, and in life. He is also the author of Foundations of Coaching: The Total Coaching Manual.

Embarrassingly Honest by Carolyn Tucker

Keys to the Kingdom

By Carolyn Tucker

Embarrassingly Honest

I had purchased an item at a department/grocery store and needed to return it. I slipped it into the original bag with the receipt, as required. When I entered the store, I headed toward the friendly greeter. As I approached he asked, “Do you have a return?” I said, “Yes.” I was hoping he would just place the sticker on the bag and send me on my way. But no, he opened the bag and asked, “What have we here?” I answered, “Well, it’s a bra and it won’t fit you either.” When I’m backed into a corner with no way out, I usually respond with humor because it helps with the embarrassment of being bluntly honest.

When the truth of God’s Word or the conviction of the Holy Spirit backs me into a corner,  there’s only one way to move forward – repent. And this is no laughing matter because prayer is serious business. When Christ followers realize we’ve sinned, the only option is to admit the sin, ask for forgiveness, and pray for grace to not do “it” again. Thankfully, we have hope when we fail to please God: “…if we confess our sins to Him, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all wickedness” (1 John 1:9 NLT).

Believers have to be embarrassingly honest when we confess our sin to God. Beating around the bush just doesn’t cut the mustard. God already knows what we’ve done, so it’s for our own good and spiritual progress to make a truthfully-blunt confession out loud to God. I appreciate the following scripture penned by John the beloved apostle: “My dear children, I am writing this to you so that you will not sin. But if anyone does sin, we have an advocate who pleads our case before the Father, He is Jesus Christ, the One who is truly righteous. He Himself is the sacrifice that atones for our sins – and not only our sins but the sins of all the world” (1 John 2:1-2 NLT).

John’s letter was inspired of God to bring truth and hope to our hearts and to keep us from evil. Christ followers should be thankful that we have Jesus as our advocate to plead our case before God. When a stumbling Christian asks for forgiveness, Lawyer Jesus never loses a case – He wins every time. God isn’t looking for believers with perfect outward performances, He’s looking for those with perfect hearts. “For the eyes of the Lord run to and fro throughout the whole earth, to show Himself strong in the behalf of them whose heart is perfect toward Him” (2 Chronicles 16:9 KJV).

A perfect heart is one that wants to please God, and one that is grieved over personal sin when it occurs. Other identifiers of a perfect heart include a desire for inner purity, alignment with God’s will, complete loyalty to God, and a lifelong commitment to seek God wholeheartedly. And, in the deepest part of our heart, it’s important to know without a doubt that God is patiently waiting to forgive and will restore all who are truly sorry and genuinely repent. Having a perfect heart doesn’t mean believers will flawlessly follow Christ. But it does mean we’ll commit to loving Him with all our heart, soul, mind, and strength.

“…let’s approach the throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace for help at the time of our need” (Hebrews 4:16 NASB). Sometimes our greatest need is God’s forgiveness.

The Key: You can’t pull the wool over God’s eyes, so you might as well be embarrassingly honest with Him.

First Farmers Market Vendors Meeting of the Season In April 7

It’s almost that time again! The Fort Scott Farmers Market vendors are excited for a new Market Season and can’t wait to see you!
They will be meeting Tuesday, April 7, from 6 – 8 pm,
at the Healthy Bourbon County Action Team (HBCAT) Offices,
104 North National Avenue, Fort Scott, Kansas 66701 
 
April 7th, 6-8pm Vendors’ Meeting is for new and returning vendors.
Items to discuss:
Electing new officers
Market Guidelines
Various voucher programs
SNAP and Double Up Food Bucks
Applications and Fees 
They will be discussing last year’s season to see what worked, what can be improved, and what you’d like to see happen this year. 
They will elect new officers for leadership of the market.
Please look over the attached roles and consider volunteering, or someone you’d like to nominate. A smooth transition will keep the momentum established for a successful market, so President Teri Hamilton will be operating in a training/support/transitional role this year.
They will be accepting your application and fees. Please print and fill out your application, and be prepared to pay by cash or check.
2026 Fees are:
$5.00 Registration Fee
$5.00 per week
$30 (1 week per month)
$60 (2 weeks per month)
$108 (27 weeks Full Season)
Please feel free to pass this information on to anyone who may be interested in joining this year. And please reach out if any questions or comments.
“We look forward to seeing you and we can’t wait to see what you’ve got in store for the coming Market Season! It’s going to be a great year!”
Sincerely,
Teri Hamilton, President
Ethan Holly, Treasurer
Leanna Cain, Secretary

— 

Fort Scott Farmers’ Market
The Gathering Square Pavilion
111 N National Ave
Fort Scott, KS 66701

Bourbon County Local News