90th annual pancake feed slated

For nine decades, the annual Fort Scott Kiwanis Club Pancake Feed has nourished the masses and raised money to benefit youth in Bourbon County.

The 90th annual fundraiser is scheduled to take place from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 8, at the Scottish Rite Temple, 110 S. Main St. The feed raises money for several area youth-related organizations, programs and groups, as well as schools and charitable events in Bourbon County.

Event co-chairman Steve Floyd said while the Kiwanis Club conducts other fundraisers throughout the year, the pancake feed is "by far the largest."

"It's definitely the biggest," he said.

The Kiwanis Club gets support from several area organizations and businesses, Fort Scott Key Club members and other volunteers who give of their time to work at the meal by preparing, cooking and serving food. The club will also get help this year from about 35-40 corporate sponsors.

"We get a lot of good support from the community and great support from corporate sponsors," Floyd said.

Floyd added he has been involved with the Kiwanis Club for at least 15 years. While the pancake feed has changed somewhat over the years, it remains a popular community event where many people gather to socialize.

He said the event was "more of a production" years ago before the economy changed and the number of downtown businesses dwindled.

"People enjoy it," he said. "It's a great thing for people to attend, for sure."

While he wasn't sure exactly how many attended last year's event, Floyd said organizers are prepared to serve 2,000 people this year.

Club treasurer Phil Gorman said $4,000 was budgeted for last year's pancake feed and the event brought in about $3,600. The same amount has been budgeted for this year's event.

The club has contributed nearly $6,000 to the community this year, Gorman said.

Gorman said the economy, fewer downtown businesses and weather have all been factors in a decline in attendance at the fundraiser in recent years.

The Fort Scott Kiwanis Club is part of a global organization of volunteers that works each year to provide funding for worthwhile local and international projects. Money raised through the pancake feed has been used to fund a variety of youth-related educational needs, activities and events.

Tickets for the pancake feed, which cost $5, can be purchased from any Kiwanis member or at the door the day of the event. Children 5 years of age and younger will be served free of charge. Patrons will be served pancakes, sausage and his or her choice of juice or coffee.