Category Archives: Uncategorized

Breaking News: Bourbon County Clerk Resigns

Susan Walker announced her resignation at the  Bourbon County commission meeting at 6:33 pm on Monday August 10th, 2026. Her last day will be August 31st.

She specifically pointed to  incompetent leadership and lack of integrity on the part of Commissioner Tran as one of the reasons for resignation.

The staff from the clerks office will also be transferring elsewhere.

Susan said Deputy Clerk Michael Hoyt will finish the meeting and fill the office until another clerk is appointed by the Republican party.

Bourbon County Coalition August 2026 Meeting Minutes

Bourbon County Inter-Agency Coalition

General Membership Meeting Minutes — August 5, 2026

Welcome: Fourteen members from twelve agencies attended the meeting in the Scottview Apartments Conference Room.

Coalition Board News: There is an open seat on the Coalition Board. Reach out to Nick if you are interested.

Member Introductions and Announcements

  • Aslee Reeder – Southeast Kansas Mental Health Center
  • Rene Hibdon – CHC SEK, Patient Resource Specialist. Rene was previously working with young clients and their families. She is now working with clients of all ages.
  • Henry Coronado – SER Corporation. The SER Corporation facilitates grants for students in the tech field, especially agriculture. They work frequently with the John Deere and welding programs at FSCC.
  • Amanda Portwood – Ward Kraft Recruiter
  • Alyssa Hess – Safehouse Crisis Center. Alyssa can provide presentations on healthy relationships to students in grades 6–12.
  • Janelle Tate – Early Childhood Block Grant. The grant is starting up the school year and getting ready to serve multiple counties in Southeast Kansas.
  • Michelle Stevenson – Early Childhood Program Coordinator. Michelle works with families who have children prenatal through age 6. She works with families to encourage a child’s development and track progress toward milestones.
  • Star Culp – Parents As Teachers. Star serves USD 234 Fort Scott, USD 235 Uniontown, and USD 256 Marmaton Valley.
  • Shelby Moore – FAST Program. Shelby works with families providing special education assistance.
  • Kathy Romero – Manager, Angels Care Home Health. Angels Care offers PT, OT, speech, nursing, and education services. Angels does not accept Medicaid but will help find services.
  • Theresa Amershek – Child Exchange & Visitation Center (CEVC). CEVC provides services for anyone who needs visitation with their kids. They have security available to assist with difficult visitation situations and work with the domestic violence center.
  • Shelby Blagg – Victim Advocate at Safehouse Crisis Center. The Safehouse provides shelter and advocacy for domestic and sexual violence victims.

Program

Dr. Zach Johnson, Superintendent, USD 234 Fort Scott

Dr. Johnson is beginning his fifth year at USD 234. Previously, he was the middle school principal for three years and Assistant Superintendent for one year. He has also taught, coached, and been an administrator in the Springfield area and Coffeyville school district. Dr. Johnson’s wife is a clinician at KRI.

USD 234 is beginning a strategic planning process to develop a mission and vision. Four community events will be held this fall. The school district is inviting community members to participate in these strategic planning sessions to learn more about the school district and provide input into the planning process. Surveys will also be available for the community. Dr. Johnson is working to develop partnerships between the school district and community through this process. The plan will guide the district for the next 3–5 years.

School begins Friday, August 14. Staff will return to work Monday to prepare classrooms and attend professional development sessions, including a guest speaker, Dave Burgess, who will speak to staff the following Wednesday.

Strategic Planning Sessions (all held at FSHS Commons Area, 5:00–8:00 PM):

  • August 27, 2026
  • September 17, 2026
  • October 8, 2026
  • October 29, 2026

Amanda Portwood, Ward/Kraft Recruiter

Ward/Kraft has developed a priority of recruiting within a 30-mile radius of Fort Scott. Amanda was hired to lead this recruiting initiative. She has been working with churches, schools, teams, and organizations to identify potential employees and help them begin the application and interview process.

Ward/Kraft has a paid apprenticeship program for some jobs — apprentices can earn $15 per hour while learning a new job. Multiple positions are currently available, ranging from IT and Account Managing to entry-level jobs, including housekeeping, machinist, production worker, and account manager. The production division runs three shifts Monday–Friday and rotates every three weeks. Office jobs are 8:00 AM–5:00 PM, Monday–Friday. Ward/Kraft will work with people who have had difficulties in the past.

Reach out to Amanda for more information: aportwood@wardkraft.com

Open Forum

Nothing further came before the coalition.

Adjournment

The next General Membership meeting will be September 2, 2026.

Documents:

USD 235 BOE Meeting Monday, Aug. 10 at 7 p.m.

Uniontown USD 235 Regular Board of Education Meeting

Monday, August 10, 2026 at 7:00 p.m.
UJHS/UHS Commons Area, Uniontown, Kansas

Agenda

I. Call to Order

  • A. District Mission Statement
  • B. Approve the Agenda
  • C. Review and approve the July 13, 2026 Regular meeting minutes

II. Consent Agenda

  • A. Approve and pay bills on the computer printout $742,419.53

III. Informational Items

  • A. Audience with patrons
  • B. Preliminary Budget Review
  • C. Set Revenue Neutral and Budget Hearing
  • D. 2026-27 USD 235 Negotiated Agreement
  • E. KASB Annual Convention – November 6–8 (Wichita)
  • F. Strategic Plan
  • G. Bond/Capital Projects
  • H. Approve Food Service Procurement Plan
  • I. Administrative Reports – Mr. Onelio, Mrs. Mason, Mr. Miller, and Mr. Eden

IV. Action Items

  • A. Approve Food Service Procurement Plan
  • B. Approve 2026-27 Strategic Plan
  • C. Approve Revenue Neutral Rate Hearing and Budget Hearing for September 14, 2026
  • D. Approve 2026-27 USD 235 Negotiated Agreement

VI. Executive Session – Supt.

VIII. Adjournment

Next Regular board meeting date is Monday, September 14, 2026 at 7:00. Revenue Neutral Hearing at 6:45 p.m. and Budget Hearing at 6:50 p.m.

The full agenda packet is attached as a PDF: BOEAug2026.pdf

ARTEFFECT Announces 2026 Spotlight Prize Large Format Winners

2026 Summer Art Competition – Innovation Generation Info Session

Wednesday, August 5 | 4:00–5:00 PM PT

Join ARTEFFECT online to learn more about the ARTEFFECT Summer Art Competition, INNOVATION GENERATION, open to students in grades 9–12! This Info Session will explore the Unsung Heroes who were innovators, tips for submitting, award categories, and more. Hear from previously participating young artists and educators! Bring your questions! Free to join – registration required.

Register for the Info Session

The 2026 Summer Competition, open through September 15, 2026, offers multiple awards, totaling over $20,000 in financial prizes. No submission can win more than one award or prize. Free to enter. Read the FAQs for more details about eligibility.


2026 Spotlight Prize Winners – Large Format Category

In 2026, four students received a $1,000 Spotlight Prize for their Large Format projects—works greater than 24 x 36 inches. The Spotlight Prize – Media category encourages students to create artworks in selected mediums and formats. Congratulations to these students for their spectacular projects!

  • Bea Holmberg, an 11th grade student from Washington Waldorf School in Bethesda, Maryland, for Leavitt’s Standard Candle, commemorating astronomer Henrietta Swan Leavitt.
  • Marilyn Sommerville, an 11th grade student working with 2024–25 ARTEFFECT Ambassador Corina Alvarezdelugo from King School in Stamford, Connecticut, for The Heart of a Hero, depicting pediatric cardiologist Dr. Helen Taussig.
  • Eva Aistė Špokaitė, a 12th grade student from Vilnius, Lithuania, for A “No” that Saved Thousands, honoring pharmacologist Dr. Frances Kelsey.
  • Joey Szpilczak, an 11th grade student at Germantown Friends School in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, for The Resonance of Care, inspired by physician and cancer researcher Dr. May Edward Chinn.

Congratulations to these students and all 2026 ARTEFFECT Awardees! View all 2026 winners.


ARTEFFECT Ambassadors – Visual Arts Online Fellowship 2026–2027

Call for Applications Now Open!

ARTEFFECT Ambassadors is an online fellowship for educators working directly with students in grades 6–12 to foster the visual arts. Ambassadors learn alongside other high-level practitioners through visual arts-focused, project-based lessons centered on the inspiring and diverse stories of Unsung Heroes from history.

Applications due Monday, September 14 at 11:59 PM Pacific Time.

Learn More & Apply


Ambassadors in Action!

Meet our 2025–2026 Ambassador Nakimer Foreman, Ed.S., a Visual Art Teacher from Monroe Comprehensive High School in Albany, Georgia.

Each ARTEFFECT Ambassador culminates their visual arts online fellowship with a capstone project that brings the inspiring stories of the LMC Unsung Heroes into their classrooms and communities.

Here is an excerpt from Nakimer’s Capstone Project report:

“Through their ARTEFFECT projects, students demonstrated increased confidence in discussing historical topics, interpreting symbolism, and explaining the purpose behind their artistic decisions. Many students expressed that they felt empowered knowing their artwork could educate others and bring recognition to individuals who deserved greater acknowledgment.”

Congratulations to Nakimer and her students at Monroe Comprehensive High School for your inspiring ARTEFFECT projects!

Read more about Nakimer’s capstone project

Congratulations to Nakimer’s students for being selected as Finalists in the 2026 ARTEFFECT annual competition!


For inquiries, contact: arteffect@lowellmilken.org

Schmidt Opens Service Academy Nomination Applications

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: August 3, 2026

Derek Schmidt. Submitted photo.

Congressman Derek Schmidt Announces Service Academy Nomination Applications Now Open

TOPEKA – Congressman Derek Schmidt is now accepting applications for Kansas Second District students seeking a congressional nomination to attend one of the nation’s prestigious U.S. Service Academies.

“One of the greatest honors I have as a member of Congress is nominating outstanding young men and women from the Second District to our nation’s service academies,” Congressman Schmidt said. “These institutions develop the next generation of military leaders who are committed to serving our country with honor, integrity, and excellence. I encourage every eligible student who has a passion for leadership and a desire to serve our nation to apply.”

Members of Congress may nominate candidates to the following U.S. Service Academies:

  • U.S. Military Academy at West Point, New York
  • U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Maryland
  • U.S. Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs, Colorado
  • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, New York

To be eligible for a nomination, applicants must, as of July 1 of the year of admission:

  • Be at least 17 years old but not yet 23.
  • Be a United States citizen.
  • Be unmarried with no legal obligation to support a child or dependent.
  • Be a legal resident of Kansas’ Second Congressional District.

Completed nomination application materials must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on October 15, 2026. Required materials include an online application, essay, recent photograph, résumé, official transcripts, standardized test score verification, and three letters of recommendation.

Applicants who submit a complete nomination file and meet all eligibility requirements will be invited to interview before Congressman Schmidt’s independent, nonpartisan Service Academy Nomination Board on Saturday, November 7, 2026.

Click here for more information about the application process.

BCSO Arrest & Release Report: July 31 – Aug. 3, 2026

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Arrest Summary Report

Period: 07/31/2026 – 08/03/2026
Report Printed: 08/03/2026 8:21 AM

Inmate Name Case No. Agency Arrest Date Released Date Age Charges Bond Type Bond Amt.
MERCER-KENT, SANDRA JANE 2026-000613 Fort Scott Police Department 7/31/2026 7:07 AM 49 Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor No Cash/Surety $500.00
RICHARDS, LEVI KENT 2026-000614 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 2:40 PM 41 Warrant – KS Dept. of Corrections No Bond $0.00
HOSMAN, HEIDI RENEE 2026-000615 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 3:41 PM 8/1/2026 12:41 AM 51 Possession of Certain Hallucinogenics w/1 Prior Conv; Possess Opiates/Opium/Narc Drug and Certain Stimulants No Cash/Surety $5,000.00
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000616 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/31/2026 6:00 PM 8/2/2026 6:00 PM 46 Sanction $0.00
MARTINEZ, LESLIE GERALDINE 2026-000617 Fort Scott Police Department 8/1/2026 3:00 AM 8/1/2026 9:24 AM 21 Transporting an Open Container Own Recognizance $2,500.00
REEVES, WANITA LOUISE 2026-000618 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/1/2026 3:07 AM 62 Possession of Certain Hallucinogenic Drugs; Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body; Violation of Offender Registration Act, 1st Conv Cash/Surety $5,000.00
JOHNSON, MATTHIAS ANDREW 2026-000620 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 8/1/2026 11:06 PM 20 DUI; Misdemeanor; Possession of Certain Illegal Drugs; Use/Poss Drug Paraphernalia/Human Body; Veh: Display of License Plates No Bond $0.00
WINDSOR, GAIL RENAE 2026-000622 Fort Scott Police Department 8/2/2026 6:05 PM 62 Criminal Damage to Property; Misdemeanor Cash/Surety $2,500.00

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Inmate Released List

Period: 07/31/2026 – 08/03/2026

Inmate Name Case No. Booked Date Age Race Sex Released Date/Time Release Type Released To
CREEK, BROOKELYNN MARIE 2026-000611 07/30/2026 20 W F 8/1/2026 11:38 AM Surety Bond Able
EISENBRANDT, JONAH ISAIAH 2026-000616 07/31/2026 46 B M 8/2/2026 6:00 PM Time Served Self
GUFFIN, AUGAIO 2026-000610 07/30/2026 40 B M 8/1/2026 2:05 PM Cash Bond Andrew Lorimer
HOSMAN, HEIDI RENEE 2026-000615 07/31/2026 51 W F 8/1/2026 12:41 AM Surety Bond Able Bonding
MARTINEZ, LESLIE GERALDINE 2026-000617 08/01/2026 21 H F 8/1/2026 9:24 AM Own Recognizance Self
MIRANDA-PEREZ, EDWIN ALEXIS 2026-000619 08/01/2026 24 H M 8/1/2026 9:35 AM Own Recognizance Self
ROWDEN, LESLIE GEAN 2026-000612 07/30/2026 54 W M 8/1/2026 12:02 PM Surety Bond Larry Lamb

Total Inmates Released: 7

Documents:

Miners Hall Museum Program: “The Tables that Built Us” Aug. 2

Special Program at Miners Hall Museum: “The Tables that Built Us” — Sunday, August 2

Join us Sunday, August 2 at 2 pm for a special program at Miners Hall Museum, “The Tables that Built Us.” Doors open at 1:30. Free admission.

Chuckie Hessong from Laughing Rooster Eats will celebrate the flavors, traditions, and stories that helped shape Southeast Kansas. Guests will have the opportunity to sample a few of the recipes in Chuckie’s new book being published this year in honor of Pittsburg’s 150th Anniversary! Refreshments will be served.

We would appreciate a call if you will be attending in order for us to provide adequate seating: (620) 347-4220.

Participants will explore the rich culinary heritage passed down through generations of immigrant families, miners, settlers, and community builders.

This program is presented in conjunction with the quarterly exhibit, “Blueprints of American Grit: McNally and 150 Years of Pittsburg Progress,” on display July 1–September 26. The exhibit is hosted by Celebrate Pittsburg/Pittsburg 150, Sarah Runyon, President.

Food has always been more than nourishment—it tells the story of who we are. From treasured handwritten recipes to family traditions brought from around the world, this program celebrates the diverse cultures that helped build our communities. It honors the immigrants and families whose heritage contributed to the remarkable cultural tapestry of Southeast Kansas, where more than 50 languages were once spoken. This event is also part of 2026 programming commemorating Pittsburg 150, the 250th Anniversary of the United States, and the enduring spirit, determination, and heritage of our region.

Bring your friends and discover the stories behind the meals that brought generations together. After the program, guests are invited to view the special quarterly exhibit.

To learn more about Chuckie Hessong and Laughing Rooster Eats, or to subscribe to her newsletter, visit: https://laughingroostereats.com/subscribe/

Follow “Miners Hall Museum” on Facebook to stay abreast of the latest news on all projects and events.

Miners Hall Museum
701 S. Broadway, Franklin, KS 66735
Phone: (620) 347-4220
Free admission to museum and programs. Open Monday–Saturday, 10 am–4 pm.

Located along the historic Jefferson Highway and adjacent to the National and State Historic Site “Franklin/Arma Sidewalk.”

Miners Hall Museum is dedicated to preserving and sharing Southeast Kansas coal mining history and its diverse immigrant culture.

Uniontown Council Draft Minutes — July 14, 2026

City of Uniontown Regular Council Meeting — July 14, 2026

The Regular Council Meeting on July 14, 2026 at Uniontown Community Center was called to order at 7:00 PM by Mayor Jurgensen. Council members present were Amber Kelly, Mary Pemberton, and Bradley Stewart. Also in attendance for all or part of the meeting were Lou Howard, Joe George, Loretta George, Betty Dennis, Mary Pillion, Codes Officer Doug Coyan, City Superintendent Bobby Rich, City Treasurer Sally Johnson, and City Clerk Haley Arnold.

Special Considerations / Citizens Requests

Bourbon County Emergency Manager Lou Howard addressed the Council regarding the Genasys text alert system available to the public. She explained that the City of Uniontown is eligible to establish its own account for the service. Council members asked questions about how text alerts are distributed, including how notification boundaries are established and how recipients within those boundaries receive alerts.

Moved by Pemberton, Second by Kelly, Approved 3-0, to set up an account for the City of Uniontown on the Genasys text alert system provided by the Bourbon County Emergency Management Team.

Loretta George expressed concerns about standing water at 402 2nd Street and a potentially plugged culvert. Superintendent Rich stated that he would inspect the culvert to determine whether it is blocked.

Betty Dennis requested an update on the proposed leash law that she had previously asked to be added to the City’s ordinances. The Council informed her that dog-related ordinances would be discussed later in the meeting.

Mary Pillion provided information regarding the annual Old Settlers Day Picnic, held around Labor Day. She asked whether the Council would approve holding a street dance again this year.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to allow the street dance and to block off Sherman St between 2nd and 3rd Sts.

A sponsorship form for the Old Settlers Day Picnic was presented. The City will continue to support the event by providing a trash dumpster, staff to maintain the public restrooms, water, and electricity used during the event.

Financial Report

Treasurer Johnson presented the June 2026 Treasurer’s Report. Beginning Checking Account Balance for all funds was $248,172.75; Receipts $51,578.08; Transfers Out $3,024.25; Expenditures $46,926.52; Checking Account Closing Balance $249,800.06. Bank Statement Balance $272,010.36, including Checking Account Interest of $55.44; Outstanding Deposits $0; Outstanding Checks $22,210.30; Reconciled Balance $249,800.06. Water Utilities Certificates of Deposit $43,707.59; Sewer Utilities Certificate of Deposit $24,599.14; Gas Utilities Certificates of Deposit $51,241.51; Total All Funds including Certificates of Deposit $369,348.30. Year-to-Date Interest in Checking Account $307.00 and Utility CDs $1,401.25 for a Total Year-to-Date Interest of $1,708.25.

Projects Checking Account for June 2026: Beginning Balance $0; Receipts $0; Expenditures $0; Ending Balance $0. June Transfers: from Sewer Utility Fund to Sewer Revolving Loan $1,400.25; from Water Utility Fund to GO Water Bond & Interest $1,624.00; Total Transfers $3,024.25. Net income for the month of June $1,627.31; Year-to-Date Net Income $49,054.60.

Budget vs. Actual: Gas Fund YTD Revenue $85,824.20 (66.3%), Expenditures $53,150.35 (40.3%); Sewer Fund YTD Revenue $20,637.73 (57.2%), Expenditures $16,255.40 (38.1%); Water Fund YTD Revenue $61,169.28 (49.2%), Expenditures $50,430.47 (35.4%); General Fund YTD Revenue $88,134.02 (59.8%), Expenditures $87,557.20 (37.3%); Special Highway YTD Revenue $3,968.83 (54.4%), Expenditures $4,193.45 (37.5%). July 2026 payables to date: $41,546.04.

Consent Agenda

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to approve the Consent Agenda:

  • Minutes of June 9, 2026 Regular Meeting
  • June Treasurer’s Report, Profit & Loss Report by Class & July Accounts Payables

Treasurer Johnson proposed setting the budget hearing for the August 11 meeting.

Moved by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to set the budget hearing for August 11 at 7:00 p.m.

Department Reports

Code Enforcement Officer Doug Coyan commended USB for organizing a successful Independence Day Celebration and thanked Superintendent Bobby Rich for preparing the park for the event. Coyan reported that the property at 202 4th Street had been cited and was awaiting a court date. Treasurer Johnson noted that significant improvements had been made to the property. Coyan also provided an update on the property at 101 Washington and reported that the property at 201 Fulton was in much better condition than it had been at the previous meeting.

Mayor Jurgensen stated that Clerk Arnold wrote a well-presented article for Bandera Stone in last month’s newsletter. He added that the upcoming month’s newsletter would feature a thank-you message to USB for its Independence Day celebration.

Superintendent Bobby Rich presented pricing comparisons for cold patch asphalt with fiber and without fiber. The Council discussed several areas throughout town in need of cold patch repairs.

Moved by Kelly, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, for Rich to purchase 18 ton of cold patch with fiber.

Mayor Jurgensen asked when the town-wide cleanup was scheduled. Johnson stated it would be held August 31 through September 3.

Councilmember Pemberton complimented Superintendent Rich on the newly repainted basketball goal posts in the park.

City Clerk Haley Arnold informed the Council that the audit for DBB, Inc. was scheduled for July 28 and 29.

Councilmember Kelly thanked Arnold for all her hard work.

Council Report

  • Councilman Knight — absent
  • Councilwoman Kelly — asked Superintendent Bobby Rich to repair or remove the damaged window screens at the Community Center and relocate screens still in good condition to the front of the building. Superintendent Rich stated he would complete the work the following day.
  • Councilwoman Pemberton — none
  • Councilwoman Pritchett — absent
  • Councilman Stewart — stated that publishing an article thanking the bank for sponsoring the Independence Day celebration was a good idea.
  • Mayor Jurgensen — presented the Council with a letter of resignation from Councilwoman Savannah Pritchett.

Moved by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to accept the resignation of Councilwoman Savannah Pritchett.

Mayor Jurgensen reported that he spoke with the NRCS regarding funding for the project on the north side of town. He was informed that it would likely be about a year before funding availability is determined. Mayor Jurgensen also stated that he is continuing discussions with Herschel George and Jared Pollock to determine the best approach for addressing the flooding issue.

Mayor Jurgensen reported that he is in the process of setting up park security cameras. He presented information on a camera system identified as a possible purchase. After discussion, the Council agreed to purchase four cameras for the park and discussed preferred camera types and potential installation locations.

Old Business

FEMA Flooding — Johnson reported that a closeout meeting was scheduled for July 23 to discuss the completion of the project and determine which completed repairs would be eligible for reimbursement. She stated she is hopeful the City will receive reimbursement for 85% of the project’s eligible costs.

Dog Ordinance No. 85 Review and Discussion — Councilman Stewart presented his draft of a revised animal control ordinance. Additional draft ordinances were also presented and discussed. By consensus, the Council agreed to combine all existing dog ordinances into a single comprehensive ordinance to be discussed at next month’s Council meeting.

Community Center Deposit and Rent Review — The Council reviewed existing fees and discussed the possibility of increasing rental and deposit rates.

Moved by Kelly, seconded by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to increase the Community Center security deposit to $25, the rental fee to $25 for up to 4 hours, and $50 for up to 8 hours.

New Business

Building Safety Concern — Discussion was held regarding potential safety concerns associated with the building located north of City Hall. After review and consideration, no action will be taken at this time.

Motion by Kelly, Second by Stewart, Approved 3-0, to enter into executive session pursuant to non-elected personnel exception, KSA 75-4319(b)(1), in order to discuss performance of non-elected personnel; the open meeting to resume at 9:05 PM.

Meeting resumed at 9:05 PM. The Council decided to seek out one or two young men to assist Rich with a variety of jobs and projects to be completed throughout the City. The Council also discussed the types of work to be completed and the number of hours each worker would be able to work per week.

Moved by Stewart, Second by Pemberton, Approved 3-0, to adjourn at 9:15 PM.

Documents:

Sen. Moran Now Accepting 2026 Service Academy Applications

U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) announced that applications are now open for Kansas students to apply to a United States Service Academy for the Class of 2031.

Senator Moran noted that one of his favorite duties as a U.S. Senator is appointing Kansans to the following academies:

  • U.S. Military Academy — West Point, New York
  • U.S. Naval Academy — Annapolis, Maryland
  • U.S. Air Force Academy — Colorado Springs, Colorado
  • U.S. Merchant Marine Academy — Kings Point, New York

Applications must be submitted by 11:59 p.m. CT on September 18, 2026. After applications are reviewed, applicants will be notified of interviews with Senator Moran’s Service Academy Selection Board.

For the full list of requirements and to apply, visit Senator Moran’s website.

Contact Senator Moran’s offices:

Washington, D.C.
Dirksen Senate Office Building, Room 521
Washington, D.C. 20510
Phone: (202) 224-6521 | Fax: (202) 228-6966

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

You can also contact Senator Moran by email through his website: www.moran.senate.gov.

Get the Scoop on Senior Living at Fort Scott Presbyterian Village

Get The Scoop: The Sweet Side of Senior Living

Fort Scott, Kan. – Curious about what life is really like inside a senior living community? Fort Scott Presbyterian Village is serving up the inside scoop — with sprinkles on top.

Residents, families, and community members are invited to Get The Scoop on Senior Living, a lively ice cream social designed to showcase the warmth, connection, and everyday joy that fill the halls of the community.

The event will feature residents and team members who will share their personal experiences and insights.

Join us from 4–6 p.m. on Monday, August 24 at Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, 2401 S. Horton St. in Fort Scott.

Guests can enjoy a variety of ice cream flavors from Lu’s Ice Cream, 523 S. Main, Fort Scott – a new sweet spot in town – while mingling with residents, chatting with staff, and discovering what makes senior living at Presbyterian Manor feel like home.

RSVP by August 17 by calling Angela Carpenter at 620-223-5550 or emailing acarpenter@pmma.org to reserve your spot.

Whether you’re exploring options for yourself, a loved one, or simply want to enjoy a sweet summer afternoon, come for the ice cream — stay for the stories.


Fort Scott Presbyterian Village, a Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America community, has been offering independent and assisted living apartments for seniors from southeast Kansas and southwest Missouri since 1994. Learn more at FortScottPresbyterianVillage.org.

Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization with 15 locations in Kansas and Missouri, a new community opening soon in Colorado Springs, and a hospice in Farmington, Missouri. Learn more at PresbyterianManors.org.

Documents:

Nexstar Kansas Stations to Air Live Democratic Governor’s Debate

Nexstar’s Kansas Television Stations to Air Exclusive Live Debate Between Candidates for the Democratic Party’s Nomination for Governor of Kansas

Debate Will Take Place on July 31 at 7 p.m. CT

KANSAS CITY, MO (July 23, 2026)—Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXST), today announced that its television stations serving Kansas will air an exclusive live, multi-market telecast of a debate between candidates seeking the Democratic Party’s nomination for Governor of Kansas. The debate, titled “Debate Night in Kansas,” will take place on July 31st from 7 p.m. CT to 8 p.m. CT, and originate from WDAF-TV FOX4 in Kansas City.

The debate will be moderated by FOX4’s John Holt, who has deep experience covering Kansas politics and statewide issues. The debate will focus on topics most important to voters, including economic growth, education, and healthcare.

Participating candidates include Kansas State Senator Ethan Corson, Kansas State Senator Cindy Holscher, and Overland Park, KS, Mayor Curt Skoog.

“This is Nexstar’s second live statewide debate in Kansas, reaching a potential audience of two million registered voters, offering them an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates running for the Democratic party’s nomination for Governor,” said Andrew Alford, President of Nexstar’s broadcasting division. “Nexstar is pleased to offer this debate as a public service to the voters of Kansas, just as we have done in several other states across the country.”

The debate will be carried live on four Nexstar television stations serving Kansas, including FOX 4, WDAF (Kansas City), KSN 16, KSNF (Joplin, MO), KSNT 27 (Topeka), and KSN News, KSNW (Wichita).

The event will also be streamed live on Nexstar’s digital platforms, with excerpts airing nationally on NewsNation and The Hill.

The following television stations will carry the debate live on July 31:

Station Network Market Website
WDAF FOX Kansas City FOX4KC.com
KSNF NBC Joplin, MO FourStatesHomepage.com
KSNT NBC Topeka KSNT.com
KSNW NBC Wichita KSN.com

About Nexstar Media Group, Inc.

Nexstar Media Group, Inc. (NASDAQ: NXST) is a leading diversified media company that produces and distributes engaging local and national news, sports and entertainment content across its television and digital platforms. For more information, please visit nexstar.tv.

Media Credentials

https://ksdebate.wufoo.com/forms/qt2kwdz0lxge5m/

Media Contact

Chris Berg
VP/Local Content Development
Nexstar Media Group, Inc.
cberg@nexstar.tv

Documents:

BCSO Arrest & Release Report: July 24–27, 2026

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Arrest Summary Report (07/24/2026–07/27/2026)

Inmate Name Case No. Agency Held For Arrest Date Released Date Age Charges Bond Type Bond Amt.
Shields, Edward 2026-000593 Douglas County 7/24/2026 12:06 PM 31 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Salazar, Joshua None 2026-000594 Douglas County 7/24/2026 12:21 PM 32 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Roberson, Malcolm 2026-000595 Douglas County 7/24/2026 12:34 PM 32 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Heffner, Evan 2026-000596 Douglas County 7/24/2026 12:53 PM 21 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Edwards, Robert 2026-000597 Douglas County 7/24/2026 1:04 PM 40 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Hoyman, Rusty 2026-000598 Douglas County 7/24/2026 1:21 PM 38 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Kerron, Dakota 2026-000599 Douglas County 7/24/2026 1:37 PM 28 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Pyzer, Travis 2026-000600 Douglas County 7/24/2026 1:54 PM 40 Other Agency Hold $0.00
Eisenbrandt, Jonah 2026-000601 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/24/2026 6:00 PM 7/26/2026 6:00 PM 46 Sanction No Bond $0.00
Thurston, Steven Austin Ray 2026-000602 Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office 7/25/2026 2:16 AM 7/26/2026 9:45 PM 25 DUI; Misdemeanor Cash/Surety $1,500.00

Bourbon County Sheriff’s Office — Inmate Released List (07/24/2026–07/27/2026)

Inmate Name Case No. Booked Date Released Date/Time Age Race Sex Release Type Released To
Brown, Shelby Denise 2026-000577 07/18/2026 7/24/2026 11:29 AM 33 W F Cash Bond Self
Crites, David McArthur 2026-000477 06/12/2026 7/24/2026 11:54 AM 36 W M Own Recognizance Self
Edwards, Sawyer Wayne 2026-000534 07/02/2026 7/24/2026 5:54 PM 39 W M Surety Bond Able Bonding
Eisenbrandt, Jonah 2026-000601 07/24/2026 7/26/2026 6:00 PM 46 B M Time Served Self
Guffin, Augaio 2026-000544 07/05/2026 7/24/2026 5:57 PM 40 B M Surety Bond Able Bonding
Prewitt, Carter Maxwell 2026-000582 07/19/2026 7/24/2026 8:04 PM 27 W M Surety Bond American Western
Thurston, Steven Austin Ray 2026-000602 07/25/2026 7/26/2026 9:45 PM 25 W M Surety Bond Able Bonding

Total Inmates Released: 7

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