Photos taken from 2016 Veteran’s Day Program at Fort Scott National Historic Site.
Help Us Welcome Our Honor Flight Heroes Home!
This evening (June 4th), join others on the east side of Fort Scott High School as we welcome home our Honor Flight veterans and their high school guardians who have spent the last three days in Washington.
The expected time of arrival is 7:15 p.m. , possibly earlier.
Please consider arriving a little early, as they may be running ahead of schedule.
Let’s line the street, wave our flags, and show these heroes just how much their service and sacrifice mean to our community. There is nothing quite like seeing our veterans return home to a crowd of grateful Americans.
Bring your family. Let’s give them the welcome home they deserve!
THOMPSON, MICHAEL WAYNE, 58
Arrested: 6/3/2026 12:28 AM
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Charges:
– DUI; Misdemeanor ($2,000 cash/surety)
– Ignition Interlock Device; Operate Car W/O Device
– License Restrictions
– Transporting an Open Container
Bond Total: $2,000
HALL, ANGELA MARIE, 44
Arrested: 6/3/2026 1:02 AM
Agency: Fort Scott PD
Charges:
– Possess Opiates/Opium/Narc Drug and Certain Stim ($2,000 cash/surety)
– Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body
Bond Total: $2,000
GONZALEZ, MARSHA ANN, 58
Arrested: 6/3/2026 1:49 PM
Agency: Kansas Highway Patrol
Charges:
– DUI; 1st Conviction
– Transporting an Open Container
Bond: $0
MEECH, BILLY JAMES, 56
Arrested: 6/3/2026 4:15 PM
Agency: Fort Scott PD
Charge: Warrant: Fort Scott Municipal (warrant #025742, $175 cash) *
Bond Total: $175
ROBERTS, VERONICA BROOKLYN, 24
Arrested: 6/2/2026 11:24 AM
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Charge: Warrant: Bourbon County (Probation Violation) * (NO BOND)
Bond: $0
BASSETT, TIMOTHY ANDREW, 44
Arrested: 6/2/2026 12:08 PM
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Charge: Warrant: Bourbon County (Failure to Appear) * ($10,000 cash/surety)
Bond Total: $10,000
THOMPSON, MICHAEL WAYNE, 58
Arrested: 6/3/2026 12:28 AM
Agency: Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office
Charges:
– DUI; Misdemeanor
– Ignition Interlock Device; Operate Car W/O Device
– License Restrictions
– Transporting an Open Container
Bond: $0
HALL, ANGELA MARIE, 44
Arrested: 6/3/2026 1:02 AM
Agency: Fort Scott PD
Charges:
– Possess Opiates/Opium/Narc Drug and Certain Stim
– Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body
Bond: $0
Inmate Released List
BROWN, ANDREW TAYLOR, 24
Booked: 06/01/2026
Released: 6/2/2026 at 6:34 PM
Type: Surety bond
Released to: Able Bonding
GARZA, JOHNNY N, 46
Booked: 05/06/2026
Released: 6/2/2026 at 11:08 AM
Type: Transferred out
Released to: DGCO
MCCARTY, JAMES, 44
Booked: 04/27/2026
Released: 6/2/2026 at 11:07 AM
Type: Transferred out
Released to: DGCO
VILLAZON, VINCENT J, 28
Booked: 05/08/2026
Released: 6/2/2026 at 2:56 PM
Released to: Self
from left: State Treasurer Baron Rodvold; Lieutenant Governor Beckett Romain; Governor Bo Barkley; Attorney General Raj Gugnani; and Secretary of State Jackson Roberts. Submitted photo.
June 2, 2025 — Bo Barkley, a resident of McPherson, Kan., and a senior-to-be at McPherson High School, has been elected governor of the 2026 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas. The announcement was made this evening during the Kansas Boys State evening retreat at Kansas State University in Manhattan.
Barkley, the Kansas Boys State Federalist Party governor candidate, and his lieutenant governor running mate, Beckett Romain, a resident of Wichita, Kan., and a junior-to-be at Kapaun Mt. Carmel Catholic High School, won the election over the Nationalist Party governor candidate Burklee Jackson, a resident of Concordia, Kan., and a senior-to-be at Concordia High School and his lieutenant governor running mate, Alexander Caldwell, a resident of Overland Park, Kan., and a senior-to-be at St. Thomas Aquinas High School.
Election results for other state offices:
(Name, Party, Hometown, High School – all cities/high schools in Kansas unless noted; all are seniors-to-be)
Secretary of State — Jackson Roberts, Nationalist, Spring Hill, senior-to-be at Spring Hill High School, defeated Keaden Yim, Federalist, Lenexa, senior-to-be at Olathe Northwest High School.
Attorney General — Raj Gugnani, Federalist, Fort Scott, senior-to-be at Fort Scott High School, defeated Jace Daugherty, Nationalist, Andover, senior-to-be at Andover High School.
State Treasurer — Baron Rodvold, Federalist, Wichita, senior-to-be at Derby High School, defeated Alex Ray, Nationalist, Winfield, senior-to-be at Winfield High School.
Kansas Boys State Governor Barkley will give his inaugural address tomorrow (Wednesday, June 3) at 8 p.m. at K-State’s McCain Auditorium. The event will conclude with the Kansas Boys State band, chorus and talent show.
Wednesday evening’s festivities kickoff at 7:30 p.m. with a flag retirement ceremony at the World War II Memorial in front of McCain Auditorium. The event is an observance of the proper respect for the American flag and how unserviceable flags are properly disposed. The honor guard from the American Legion Pearce-Keller Post No.17 in Manhattan will present the ceremony. Dr. John Lindholm, a 1949 KSU graduate who provided the dog tags as a model for the “Tags of Honor” sculpture at the World War II Memorial, was a longtime Kansas Boys State staff member as a Legionnaire advisor before passing away in January 2020. Both events on Wednesday night are open to the public.
High school students from across the State of Kansas are participating in the 2026 session of the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, which started on Sunday (May 31) and ends Saturday, June 6, at Kansas State University in Manhattan. This is the program’s 34th consecutive session at KSU and 88th overall. The Kansas Boys State program includes students who have just completed their junior year of high school (will be seniors in the fall) and sophomore year of high school (will be juniors in the fall).
The objective of the ALBSK is to inculcate a sense of individual obligation to community, state and nation. Kansas Boys State provides a relevant, interactive, problem-solving experience in leadership and teamwork that develops self-identity, promotes mutual respect and instills civic responsibility. Boys State is a “learning by doing” political exercise that simulates elections, political parties and government at the state, county and local levels, providing opportunities to lead under pressure, showcasing character and working effectively within a team. It’s also an opportunity to gain pride and respect for government and the price paid by members of the military to preserve democracy.
— #KSBoysState —
The American Legion Boys State of Kansas is an interactive simulation that teaches high school seniors-to-be the value of democracy and civic duty. Participants form mock governments and campaign for positions at the city, county and state levels. After the elections, participants find out firsthand the difficult decisions made daily by those in government through a series of challenging simulations. Delegates, nominated to attend by their high school counselors and other influential people in their lives, are sponsored by American Legion posts and various civic organizations from across the state. All delegates demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities in student government, athletics and/or other activities.
The Boys State program was founded by Legionnaires Hayes Kennedy and Harold Card in Illinois in 1935, and was first held in Kansas two years later in Wichita. The Kansas program moved to the University of Kansas in Lawrence in 1963 and remained there until 1991. The following year, it moved to its current location at Kansas State University in Manhattan. For more information about the American Legion Boys State of Kansas, visit ksbstate.org.
PERRY’S PORK RINDS ANNOUNCES USDA FEDERAL INSPECTION EXPANSION, POSITIONING COMPANY FOR NATIONWIDE GROWTH
BRONSON, Kansas — Perry’s Pork Rinds, a family-owned food manufacturing company based in rural Southeast Kansas, announced a major milestone in its growth journey as the company moves forward with USDA Federal Inspection, paving the way for expanded wholesale distribution throughout the United States.
Founded in 2017 by husband-and-wife team Kelly and Thaddeus Perry, Perry’s Pork Rinds began with a simple idea, a few recipes, and the last $250 in the family’s savings account. What started as a small local venture has grown into one of Kansas’ fastest-growing handcrafted snack brands.
Today, Perry’s Pork Rinds products can be found in more than 200 retail locations across Kansas and are shipped directly to customers nationwide. The company has built a loyal following through its commitment to quality, bold flavors, customer service, and small-town values.
The transition to USDA Federal Inspection slated for July 2026 represents one of the most significant milestones in company history. Federal inspection will allow Perry’s Pork Rinds to wholesale products beyond Kansas state lines and pursue larger retail, distribution, and food service opportunities throughout the country.
“This is a dream that has been years in the making,” said Kelly Perry, co-owner of Perry’s Pork Rinds. “We’ve faced plenty of challenges along the way, including rapid growth, cash flow struggles, long hours, and moments where we weren’t sure how we were going to keep moving forward. But we’ve continued to invest in our business, our customers, and our vision. Federal inspection opens the door to opportunities we’ve been working toward since day one.”
The company currently produces ten flavors of handcrafted pork rinds and has become a familiar presence at farmers markets, fairs, festivals, sporting events, fundraisers, and retail stores throughout Kansas.
As part of its growth strategy, Perry’s Pork Rinds is investing in upgraded production equipment, enhanced packaging capabilities, expanded manufacturing systems, and increased distribution infrastructure designed to support long-term national growth.
“Our goal has never been to become the biggest,” said Thaddeus Perry, co-owner of Perry’s Pork Rinds. “Our goal has always been to build something we could be proud of, create jobs, support our community, and make a quality product people enjoy. We’re excited to show the rest of the country what our Kansas company can do.”
In addition to its business growth, Perry’s Pork Rinds remains heavily involved in community development efforts throughout Southeast Kansas. The company regularly supports local fundraisers, nonprofit organizations, schools, youth programs, and rural economic development initiatives.
The Perry family credits much of the company’s success to faith, perseverance, loyal customers, and the support of the communities that have rallied behind the business since its founding.
“Whether people remember us for our pork rinds or simply for our determination and faith, we hope they remember that we gave this everything we had,” Kelly Perry said. “We’re proud of how far we’ve come, and we’re even more excited about where we’re headed.”
For additional information, wholesale inquiries, retail opportunities, or media interviews, please contact:
Founded in 2017, Perry’s Pork Rinds is a family-owned food manufacturing company headquartered in Bronson, Kansas. Specializing in handcrafted pork rinds made in small batches, the company offers ten unique flavors and serves customers through retail partners, special events, fundraisers, and direct-to-consumer online sales. Perry’s Pork Rinds is committed to quality, customer service, community involvement, and creating opportunities in rural America. —
I hope this message finds you well. I’m writing to invite you to join me for a live teletown hall tonight, where I’ll be discussing the latest developments in Congress and answering your questions directly.
This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts, hear updates on the issues that matter most to our community, and engage in an open conversation about the direction of our country.
Teletown Hall Details: Date: Tonight (June 2) Time: 5:30 p.m. CDT How to Join: You can participate by answering the call if you receive it, or by dialing in at 855-920-0552.
I always value hearing from you, and your input helps guide my work in Washington. I hope you’ll be able to join me for this important conversation.
VACANCIES FOR LIBRARY BOARD – (1) opening for a (4)-year term.
This board meets the second Tuesday of each month at the Fort Scott Public Library.
For further information please contact the library director, Jennifer Gum-Fowler at (620) 223-2882
. DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION IS MONDAY, JUNE 8 AT 5:00pm.
Please submit ALL Letters of Interest to the City Clerk by the deadlines indicated either in person at City Hall, 123 S. Main Street or by email.
PLEASE BE SURE TO INCLUDE CONTACT INFORMATION.
All letters will be verified, and all candidates must appear before the City Commission when scheduled by agenda.
If letters cannot be verified, they will not be considered. For questions, please contact Lisa Lewis, City Clerk at [email protected] or (620) 223-0550 ext. 507.
Fort Scott, Kan. June. 2, 2026 – The Gordon Parks Museum, in partnership with photojournalist and documentary filmmaker D. Michael Cheers, recipient of the 2025 Choice of Weapons Award, proudly presents the encore screening of Fort Scott Stories, the theatrical version. The feature-length documentary is inspired by Gordon Parks.
The screening will take place on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as part of the 23rd Annual Gordon Parks Celebration that is taking place October 1 – 3, 2026. General admission doors will open at 12:30 p.m., followed by the film screening at 1:00 p.m. Admission is free and open to the public; however, advance registration is required.
Fort Scott Stories offers a compelling and intimate portrait of present-day Fort Scott, capturing the heartbeat, character, and vibrancy of a community rich in history, resilience, and diverse cultural experiences. Through the voices of residents spanning generations, from youth to elders, business owners to church members, the documentary weaves together authentic narratives that reflect both the ordinary and extraordinary moments of life in Fort Scott that reflects the city’s enduring spirt.
“Fort Scott Stories is about honoring the everyday lives that shape a community,” said D. Michael Cheers. “Gordon Parks taught us that there is power, dignity, and beauty in telling people’s stories with honesty and care. This film is my creative way of continuing that conversation, by listening deeply, bearing witness, and allowing Fort Scott to speak for itself.”
Inspired by Gordon Parks’ unpublished LIFE magazine assignment in Fort Scott in 1950, this film continues his legacy of truth-telling through art, empathy, and vision.
“We are very fortunate to have this film being shown once again here in Fort Scott with the shortened length theatrical version.” said Kirk Sharp, Executive Director of the Gordon Parks Museum. “We had a had packed house for the premiere of the film this past April, and we expect even a larger crowd for the encore screening. Fort Scott Stories will make you smile, cry, and feel inspired and empowered. It is an honest and deeply human reflection of a community, seen through compassion, memory, and hope. The film is both a continuation of history and a living conversation about where we came from, and who we are today.”
The documentary also features actor Kyle Johnson, who portrayed Gordon Parks in the 1968 film The Learning Tree and is a 2021 Choice of Weapons Award recipient.
Ticket registration is available through the Gordon Parks Museum website event page at https://www.gordonparkscenter.org/events or by calling 620-223-2700, ext. 5850.
Running Time: 1 hour, 40 minutes.
Limited Edition DVDs will be on sale following the showing.
For more information about the Fort Scott Stories Feature Documentary Premiere in Fort Scott, Kansas, please contact the Gordon Parks Museum at 620-223-2700, ext. 5850, or email [email protected].
Commissioners Gregg Motley and Mika Milburn-Key in person, and Samuel Tran and Joe Allen via video chat attended the County Commission Meeting which lasted less than 6 minutes.
TUSA was removed from the agenda for lack of attendance at Sheriff Bill Martin’s request.
Approval of Minutes 05.11.26, Special 05.18.26, 05.18.26
Minutes were approved pending changes to attribution requested by Milburn-Key.
Approval of April 2026 Financials
Approved
Approval of Tax Corrections
Approved
Approval of Accounts Payable 5.22.26 $139,611.15, 5.29.26 $456,069.98
Approved, Tran abstaining.
Allen and Tran asked that Motley sign the AP checks in absence of Allen. Motion approved.
There were no Public Comments, Department Updates, Old Business, Future Agenda Topics, New Business, or Commissioner Comments.
Submitted photo. Back row – John Doherty, Father Yancey Burgess, Faber White; middle row – Kendrick Simon, Jake Lewis, Cole Casper, David Regan, Beckham Fox; front row – Jhett Lyons, Avery Meeks, Jaxon Lyons
A spring tradition at St. Mary’s Catholic School is for the outgoing students to help beautify the area. These projects have included planting spring bulbs and annuals in front of the building, tending a pollinator garden behind the school, and filling pots with blooming flowers. Each group has learned about gardening while adding to the beauty of the school grounds. This year’s group is particularly noteworthy because these ten boys have been together as St. Mary’s students since they started kindergarten.
ARTEFFFECT is excited to announce 46 winners in the 11th annual competition. In total, $49,750 in prizes were awarded to the 46 winners across the middle and high school divisions.
In this year’s international competition, students in grades 6-12 explored and championed the stories of LMC Unsung Heroes—role models who made a positive and profound, yet previously unrecognized, impact on the course of history. For their entries, these young artists created original works of art and wrote reflective impact statements to reframe these untold stories in an array of artistic expressions and reflections.
“In bringing these overlooked stories to life through art, students deepen their understanding of history and demonstrate the power of creativity as a tool for empathy, reflection and positive change,” says ARTEFFECT Executive Director Dr. Toni Guglielmo. “These visual arts projects highlight how individual acts of courage and compassion can inspire future generations to thoughtfully interact with the world around them.”
Thank you to all sponsoring classroom educators, art instructors, families, and communities for supporting these talented young artists through the 2026 competition. ARTEFFECT looks forward to celebrating these achievements over the coming weeks!
Congratulations to the
2026 ARTEFFECT Competition Winners!
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Stay connected with ARTEFFECT and spread the word about the 2026 competition winners. Be sure follow us on these platforms for announcements, news, professional development, resources and more!
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