Bob Alldredge welcomed all to the community lunch.

Kiwanis Club member Danny Kemerling spoke about the dream of starting the hospital in Fairfax and the club’s goal to raise $75,000.

Ann Schlueter gave an update about the new orthopedic services at Community Hospital-Fairfax.

Noah Mays, Atchison-Holt Ambulance District director, spoke about the tax levy that will be on the April 8 ballot.

ACDC Director Monica Bailey wrapped up the meeting with a quick update on job shadowing and the business improvement grants.

The Atchison County Development Corporation (ACDC) hosted its annual community lunch in Fairfax at the Fire Station Community Room on March 26, where nearly 45 attendees enjoyed a wonderful lunch by Daybreak Café.

Bob Alldredge, ACDC treasurer, welcomed all to the meeting, and Roger Martin, ACDC board member, offered a prayer of thanks and blessing for the meal.

First on the list of speakers was Kiwanis Club member Danny Kemerling. He gave everyone a quick history lesson about the dream of starting the Community Hospital-Fairfax 75 years ago. Danny also talked about the Kiwanis Club’s goal to raise $75,000 toward Community Hospital-Fairfax’s expansion to add orthopedic surgeries locally. This expansion includes the addition of an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. John Weitlich, to the CH-F staff, the purchase of a new sterilizer, and specialized instruments and equipment necessary to perform orthopedic surgeries at Community Hospital-Fairfax.

Ann Schlueter, Chief Operating Officer at Community Hospital-Fairfax, gave an update about the new orthopedic services and that they have completed three successful knee replacements. When Ann started at the hospital, they didn’t have clinic services and now they are up to eight. Ann also talked about the cost of healthcare and what it would cost to add the new service. She was quick to give thanks to everyone for all of the past community support.   

Atchison-Holt Ambulance District board member Ashlee Driskell introduced their director, Noah Mays, to talk to everyone about the tax that is on the ballot for April 8. The district has not raised its levy since 1977, and rising costs have forced their hand. Noah explained that the average cost for an ambulance is $250,000 or higher, plus adding all the necessary equipment. The Atchison-Holt Ambulance District covers Atchison and Holt counties and is one of the largest in the state of Missouri, so it is important to keep the ambulances up to date.

In conclusion, Atchison County Development Director Monica Bailey wrapped up the meeting with a quick update on job shadowing and the business improvement grants.