Bourbon County

State of Kansas vs. Mika Milburn-Kee

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The State of Kansas has filed criminal charges against Mika Milburn-Kee in Bourbon County District Court. The complaint, filed on March 24, 2026 by Assistant Attorney General Olivia R. Higdon of the Criminal Division’s Economic Crimes unit, stems from an incident that allegedly took place on October 25, 2025 in Bourbon County.

Count One charges Milburn-Kee with Interference with the Conduct of Public Business in Public Buildings under Kansas statute K.S.A. 21-5922(a)(5). This law makes it a crime to knowingly disrupt, impede, or hinder the normal work of a government official by intruding into a chamber or area set aside for that official’s use. This charge is classified as a Class A Nonperson Misdemeanor and carries potential penalties of up to 12 months confinement, a fine of up to $2,500, or both. This appears to be related to areas designated for use in the election that was underway at the time.

Count Two charges Milburn-Kee with Disorderly Election Conduct under Kansas statutes K.S.A. 25-2413(c) and K.S.A. 25-2432. The complaint alleges that she unlawfully and willfully approached or remained closer than three feet to a table being used by an election board without the admitted purpose of voting or without the authority of the supervising judge, contrary to the form of the statutes in such case made and provided against the peace and dignity of the State of Kansas. This charge is classified as a Class B Nonperson Misdemeanor and carries potential penalties of up to 6 months confinement, a fine of up to $1,000, or both. Additionally, under K.S.A. 25-2432, if convicted of this offense, the defendant would be required to forfeit any public office or public employment.

The case is being prosecuted not by the local county attorney, but by an assistant attorney general out of the state office in Topeka.

Witnesses

The State has identified 15 witnesses in this case:

  1. Jacqueline K. Beatty – Special Agent, Office of the Kansas Attorney General
  2. Daryl Ludolph – Former Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Office of the Kansas Attorney General
  3. James Birket, #137 – Detective, Fort Scott Police Department
  4. Brian Thurston, #112 – Detective Sergeant, Fort Scott Police Department
  5. Susan Walker – County Clerk, Bourbon County
  6. Amber Page – Deputy County Clerk, Bourbon County
  7. Shane Walker – Employee, Bourbon County
  8. Lora Holdridge – Register of Deeds, Bourbon County
  9. Dianne Keating – Early Voting Supervisor, Bourbon County
  10. Anthony George – Advance Polling Supervisor, Bourbon County
  11. Clay Barker – Chief Counsel, Office of the Kansas Secretary of State
  12. Bryan Caskey – Kansas Director of Elections
  13. Brandi Ross
  14. Joan Page
  15. Patty Holman

This case is in its early stages. The complaint has been filed and assigned case number BB-2026-CR-000079, but the court process is just beginning. Being charged with a crime is not the same as being found guilty. The defendant is presumed innocent and has the right to legal representation and to contest the charges through the court system. What follows from here will likely include an initial court appearance, and the case may ultimately be resolved through trial, a plea agreement, or dismissal.

Commissioner Mika Milburn-Kee was asked if she had any comments on this case, but no reply has been received at this time.

State of KS vs Mika Milburn-Kee

Uncategorized

CFSEK Announces Kayley Hartman as new Accounting Manager

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The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas (CFSEK) is excited to announce the hiring of Kayley Hartman as its new Accounting Manager!

Kayley comes to CFSEK and its affiliates in Columbus, Fort Scott, and Girard with a passion for helping those in need, and great hopes and aspirations for the future of our communities in Southeast Kansas. She is actively training with current CFSEK Accounting Manager, Kim Lynch, who will be retiring in April.

“We are excited to welcome Kayley to our team,” said Devin Gorman, CFSEK Executive Director. “As a Pittsburg native with a strong background in accounting and finance, she is a great fit for this role. Her enthusiasm for our community is evident, and I know she will be a strong advocate for our work throughout Southeast Kansas.”

After graduating from Pittsburg High School, Kayley attended Pittsburg State University earning a double major in Finance and Accounting. After several years in business accounting and management, Kayley has made the transition to nonprofit work, wanting to make an impact in her community.

“I want to make sure our children thrive because they are the driving force of tomorrow,” Kayley said. “It’s great to be able to work with a like-minded team to support our communities to make our future brighter in Southeast Kansas.”

When outside of the office, Kayley spends her time with her 6-month-old daughter and her fiancé. She is also a self-described bibliophile and is currently creating her own personal library. With 4 dogs and 2 cats, Kayley says walks are a necessity for her.

When asked about her new position, Kayley had this to say: “Accounting is more than just numbers, it’s about the big picture and making sure everything runs smoothly. Working and learning alongside Kim is helpful, and I look forward to this new and exciting challenge supporting our communities in Southeast Kansas!”

The Community Foundation of Southeast Kansas has awarded over $2.8 million in grants from all foundation funds in 2025 and has facilitated over $28 million in grants since its inception in 2001. CFSEK serves the region by providing donors with a wide variety of charitable interests and encouraging charitable giving, which addresses present and future needs in our area. More information about CFSEK is available at SoutheastKansas.org.

 

 

Government, Housing, Kansas

Cold Weather Rule and LIEAP application period end soon

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TOPEKA – The Kansas Corporation Commission (KCC) wants to remind utility customers that there are two important dates coming up next week.  First, the Cold Weather Rule ends on Tuesday, March 31. The Cold Weather Rule protects residential customers, served by KCC regulated utilities, from disconnection when temperatures are forecast to drop below 35 degrees.

When the Cold Weather Rule is in effect, regulated utilities are required to offer a 12-month payment plan upon request, even if a previous payment plan has been broken. When that protection ends on Tuesday, failure to make arrangements or failure to adhere to an already established payment plan could result in disconnection. Reconnection after March 31 may require past due balances to be paid in full, depending on the utility’s policy. That is why it is important to call now – while regulated utilities are still required to offer the Cold Weather Rule 12-month payment plan.

In addition, March 31 is the deadline to apply for the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program, known as LIEAP. Applications for the federally funded program must be received by the Kansas Department of Children and Families by 5 p.m. on Tuesday, March 31.  Information about the program is available at https://www.dcf.ks.gov/services/ees/Pages/EnergyAssistance.aspx.

The Commission urges all customers facing financial difficulties to act now to stay connected. To find out more about utility assistance programs in your area, please contact your utility or the KCC Consumer Protection Office at 800-662-0027 or 785-271-3140. Utility assistance program information is also posted on the KCC’s website.

It is important to note that the Commission does not regulate co-ops or municipal utilities, although many of those utilities also offer a cold weather payment plan. For a complete list of utilities regulated by the KCC visit: http://kcc.ks.gov/about-us/jurisdiction.

 

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Bourbon County, Youth

Bourbon County CASA is currently in need of volunteers

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member
Bourbon County CASA

When a child enters foster care, everything changes — their home, their school, their routines… and often the adults in their life.

A CASA Volunteer may be the only consistent adult showing up just for them.

Be the steady voice.

Be the one who shows up.

Bourbon County CASA is currently in need of volunteers who are willing to make a difference in a child’s life. Your time and compassion can provide stability, advocacy, and hope when it matters most.

If you feel called to serve, we would love to visit with you about how you can get involved.

Contact Christa at

(620) 215-2769

or email

[email protected]

to learn more.

One caring adult can change everything.

Will it be you?

Click HERE to visit the

Bourbon County CASA

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit the

Kansas CASA Association

website!
Thank you to our Chamber Champion members shown below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Food, Fort Scott, Fort Scott Community College

FSCC’s Annual Women’s Free Luncheon is April 16

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Sending on behalf of Chamber Member

Fort Scott Community College

FSCC’s Annual

Women’s Luncheon

Thursday, April 16th

10am-2pm

Ellis Fine Arts Building

2108 Horton St.

FREE Event!

$10 with the pasta bar lunch

Questions:

Taylor Bailey

620-223-2700 x 4600

Email: [email protected]

Attendees can look forward to a day of presentations, giveaways, and community engagement!
CLICK HERE FOR TICKETS

A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below!
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Government, Kansas

The Kansas Water Authority (KWA) will meet April 8,

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 Kansas Water Authority Meeting in Great Bend

April 8, Camp Aldrich Dining & Events Center

The Kansas Water Authority (KWA) will meet Wednesday, April 8, 2026, outside of Great Bend at the Camp Aldrich Dining and Events Center located at 884 NE 110 Ave, Claflin, KS 67525. The meeting will begin at 9 a.m.

For additional meeting information and the online meeting link, visit the Kansas Water Office website calendar at kwo.ks.gov or call (785) 296-3185.

The KWA is responsible for advising the Governor, Legislature and Director of the Kansas Water Office on water policy issues. They also ensure that water policies and programs address the needs of all Kansans as well as serve as advisors of the Kansas Water Plan. The KWA was established in 1981 and consists of 13 voting members who are appointed by the Governor or Legislative leadership. State agency directors serve as ex-officio members.

If accommodations are needed for a person with disabilities, please notify the Kansas Water Office at 900 SW Jackson Street, Suite 404, Topeka, KS 66611-1249 or call (785) 296-3185 at least five working days prior to the meeting.

Note to Editor: The Americans with Disabilities Act, (42 U.S.C. 12101), requires the Kansas Water Office to print the reasonable accommodations messages.
Business, Fort Scott Chamber of Commerce

Bids & Dibs Hosts Chamber Coffee on March 26

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Join us for Chamber Coffee

hosted by

Bids & Dibs
Thursday, March 26th

 

8am

Bids & Dibs
121 E. 2nd St.

We hope to see you there!

The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to attend a Chamber Coffee celebration on Thursday, March 26th at 8 a.m., hosted by Bids & Dibs, 121 E. 2nd St. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize drawing.

Bids & Dibs is celebrating 14 years in business and continues to stand out as one of Fort Scott’s favorite shopping destinations. Since opening in 2012, the boutique has grown into the largest resale boutique in Kansas, offering a fun, ever-changing selection where style meets savings.

As they celebrate this milestone, Bids & Dibs remains dedicated to creating a welcoming, community-driven shopping experience that keeps customers coming back. In addition, Bids & Dibs will be recognized as a Family Friendly Workplace by the Kansas Children’s Service League. This recognition helps reinforce the purpose of the initiative by acknowledging employers who are taking meaningful steps to support employees and families.

For more information, contact the Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566. Visit the Events Calendar at fortscott.com and click on the “Chamber Coffees” category for upcoming hosts and locations.

Click HERE to visit

Bid & Dibs

Facebook Page!

Click HERE to visit

Bid & Dibs

website!
A special thank you to our Chamber Champion members below…
Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce

231 E. Wall St., Fort Scott, KS 66701

620-223-3566

fortscott.com
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Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce | 231 E. Wall Street | Fort Scott, KS 66701 US
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Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes

Newsletter of Lowell Milken Center for March 25, 2026

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Fort Scott Community College

Higher Learning Commission Commends FSCC Faculty for Academic Assessment

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 Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) is pleased to announce that the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) recognized the college’s efforts in improving the academic assessment process. HLC is an accreditation agency for over 1,000 colleges and universities in the United States. Following a comprehensive peer review in October 2025, HLC commended FSCC for implementing a “systemic, integrated, organized, collaborative and structured approach to academic assessment.”

 

FSCC faculty transformed academic assessment into a robust, data-informed process for improved student outcomes. Another key to success is the innovative use of a data analytics program and the Learning Management System (LMS) as a centralized repository for collaborative assessment reports, which provide insights guiding instructional strategies for improved student learning outcomes.

 

The HLC Peer Review Team noted the scope of FSCC’s strategy that ensures quality across student learning experiences. Per HLC’s report, “FSCC developed a comprehensive assessment plan which describes the process for assessing student learning outcomes at the institutional, general education, program/department, course, and co-curricular level.”

 

The HLC Institutional Action Council (IAC) continued and reaffirmed the accreditation of Fort Scott Community College with interim monitoring with the next Reaffirmation of Accreditation in 2035-2036.

 

HLC’s recognition confirms FSCC’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable education, meeting the needs of students and community through academic, technical, and occupational programs to prepare students for a global workforce.

 

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Fort Scott Community College, Uncategorized

FSCC Expands Commercial Driver’s License Training to Miami County Campus

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Fort Scott, KS – Fort Scott Community College (FSCC) is expanding its Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) training program to the FSCC Miami County Campus, with the first class scheduled to begin in March 2026. Enrollment is now open.

 

The expansion follows the successful re-establishment of the CDL program at the Fort Scott campus in 2025 and is part of the college’s continued commitment to workforce development and addressing the regional and national shortage of professional truck drivers.

 

The six-week training program prepares students to obtain a Commercial Driver’s License and enter high-demand careers in the transportation and logistics industry. Students receive classroom instruction, range practice, and behind-the-wheel driving experience using industry-standard equipment while meeting all Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) requirements.

 

“This expansion allows us to bring career training directly to more students and employers in our service area,” said J.D. Handly, CDL Instructor. “The trucking industry is essential to our economy, and employers need safe, well-trained drivers. Our goal is to remove barriers and provide a clear pathway to a strong, well-paying career.”

 

Graduates of the program may qualify for positions in local, regional, and over-the-road trucking, as well as employment with construction companies, agriculture operations, and municipal fleets. Many employers offer tuition assistance, sign-on bonuses, and immediate job placement opportunities.

 

The FSCC CDL program emphasizes safety, compliance, and real-world driving skills. Students train on modern tractor-trailer equipment and receive instruction from experienced industry professionals. The FSCC CDL Training Program offers a variety of options: Class A or Class B CDL, Manual or Automatic transmissions, as well as additional training options with Passenger, School Bus, HazMat, Tanker and Doubles/Triples endorsements.

 

The Miami County expansion increases training accessibility for residents of Paola, Osawatomie, Louisburg, and surrounding communities while supporting regional employers seeking qualified drivers.

 

Classes are limited in size to maximize behind-the-wheel training time. Interested students are encouraged to enroll early.

 

For enrollment information or to apply, contact Fort Scott Community College at (620) 223-2700 or visit www.fortscott.edu.

 

Fort Scott Community College

Fort Scott Community College to Host 49th Annual Aggie Day on March 27

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Fort Scott Community College will welcome nearly 1,500 high school students from across the four-state region for its 49th Annual Aggie Day, taking place on Friday, March 27, 2026.

This long-standing tradition remains one of the largest and most impactful agriculture education events in the region.

Students representing Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma, and Arkansas will compete in a variety of Career Development Events (CDE) designed to build leadership skills, technical knowledge, and career readiness. These contests include entomology, agricultural speech, floriculture, meat evaluation, livestock judging, poultry evaluation, milk quality and products, veterinary science, food science, farm management, and nursery landscape.

Registration for the event will take place from 7:30 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. in Arnold Arena on the west side of the FSCC campus, with competitions running throughout the day across multiple campus locations.

“Aggie Day is more than just a competition—it’s an opportunity for students to experience agriculture at a higher level and see the many career paths available to them,” said Conner Vernon, FSCC Agriculture Instructor and Livestock Judging Coach. “We enjoy watching students apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios and take pride in creating an environment where they can grow, compete, and connect with others who share similar interests.”

Sara Sutton, FSCC Agriculture Department Chair, emphasized the broader impact of the event. “Aggie Day is one of the most rewarding days of the year for our department. Hosting nearly 1,500 students on our campus provides a unique opportunity to showcase not only our agriculture programs, but the college as a whole. These students represent future leaders in many different fields, and we are proud to give them a hands-on, high-quality experience that reflects what FSCC has to offer.”

While rooted in agriculture, Aggie Day attracts a diverse group of students with interests that extend beyond the agricultural industry, including science, business, communications, and technical fields. The event provides students with exposure to a college campus environment while highlighting Fort Scott Community College’s commitment to hands-on learning and workforce development.

The success of Aggie Day is made possible through the collaboration of FSCC agriculture faculty and students, college employees, and area FFA advisors, extension agents, and 4-H leaders who assist in coordinating and hosting the contests.

Fort Scott Community College is proud to continue this 49-year tradition and remains committed to supporting the development of the next generation of leaders through experiential learning opportunities.

For more information about Aggie Day or FSCC Agriculture programs, please contact the Fort Scott Community College Agriculture Department.

 

Bourbon County Local News