The north wing, east side of the Bourbon County Courthouse.
At the beginning of the Bourbon County Commission meeting the approval of the minutes from eight previous meetings was put on hold when Commissioner Mika Milburn said she had several revisions to make to the minutes before approval and asked to bring them back at the next meeting. She also asked that greater attention be paid to the minutes before they are sent to commission.
County Clerk Susan Walker addressed Commissioner Samuel Tran’s questions about redundancy he saw in the minutes, saying she had run the minutes through a program called Copilot, which summarized each speaker’s words, allowing for attribution.
From the audience, Michael Hoyt addressed the commission regarding the motion to wait to approve the minutes until after Milburn edits them. He said thought they aren’t supposed to be verbatim, the minutes should not be untruthful
“What I said is not what was written down,” he said of the minutes’ record of his remarks at the Sept. 15 meeting.
Consent Agenda Approval of 10.10.25 Accounts Payable $161,009.81
Milburn asked if they could change the current format of approval for payroll. Payroll goes out before commission meetings.
Attorney Bob Johnson said the commission is required to approve all expenditures at some point.
Approval of tax corrections
Milburn asked for an explanation of the tax corrections, and said she wants to see them.
Walker said that the corrections are for those who have appeals or changes in property. They contain personal identifiable information and cannot leave the courthouse. Corrections are started with the appraiser’s office, moved to the clerk’s office, are approved by the commission, then sent to the treasurer’s office.
Johnson said that most tax corrections are handled by the county’s appraiser.
Trailer Reconsideration
Dustin Hall & Kenny Allen from public works came to the commission because they found they can buy a new trailer for $8,000 more than the used one they were given approval for last week. It’s the exact same trailer model as they have now. The new trailer has a 2-year 100% warranty. It will cost $93,000 with $2,500 shipping cost. Last week the commission approved the purchase of a used trailer at $85,000.
Milburn confirmed with Hall that it is within the landfill’s budget.
The commission approved the purchase.
Tran asked them to pass on to their department that folks in Uniontown are pleased with the work that Public Works has done on their roads.
Bitcoin Mining Discussion
Commissioner David Beerbower mentioned the moratorium sample he handed out last week. Johnson said it would only apply to new activity, stopping the growth for now. Going backward is much more difficult.
“The idea of a moratorium is generally to allow your zoning or planning commission to come up with rules and regulations to monitor what your issues are,” he said.
Beerbower asked about the effect of a noise resolution. Johnson said nuisance law would be the type of action necessary.
Jill Franklin, who lives a half-mile from the installation, thanked the commission for trying to do anything to help.
“Just saying they’re not going to get any louder” is not going to help, she said. She also said the noise is untenable.
Beerbower moved to go forward with the moratorium, published in resolution form.
Tran said that using a generator to extract natural gas is not new in Bourbon County, though using it to generate electricity to mine bitcoin is. He then asked if regulating this would be opening the county up to litigation.
Beerbower pointed out that the 12-month moratorium is only directed at cryptocurrency mining, not the production of natural gas.
David Ranes, from the audience, asked if any of the commission members agreed with “what they’re doing” regarding the noise issues. He said they shouldn’t be afraid of litigation.
Johnson said that the commission’s job is to follow the law. The current bitcoin mining operation was put in place before there was any legal requirement. He also said there are private remedies in nuisance law.
“I want you to follow the law, but I don’t want you to be afraid of the law,” said Ranes.
John Franklin, from the audience, said, “I think it would be really easy to argue that this is doing someone some harm.”
“The guy’s being aurally attacked non-stop, 24/7,” he said, encouraging the commission to look at solving the issue creatively.
The moratorium passed unanimously to be published and signed at the next meeting.
Tran asked for permission to address the audience. He recommended that they come next week. The bitcoin mine operator will be at the meeting next week. Tran encouraged civil participation in the discussion, saying he wants to give “due process” to everyone involved.
Hoyt asked if the county has the authority to ask them what they are doing on the property. Tran said the building looks like a two-story industrial building. He said the owner set it there because it’s the hub of a field of gas lines.
Hoyt asked if they are tax evading. Beerbower said he asked the appraiser to visit, but hasn’t heard back on that yet.
Tech Discussion
Milburn said she spoke with the lead at Stronghold about the project they are working on for the county. They have identified the sheriff’s office as having a major problem. They have a quote for hardware to update the sheriff’s office, which is out of compliance and three years past due for switch upgrades. There is a technology reserve that could fund the $11,333 hardware purchase.
They tabled the issue until next week so they can look at the packet.
Beerbower said the EMS director said their system went down over the holiday, and it was hard to get any help. Tran said Stronghold should have access to the courthouse for situations like that and not have to wait for a county employee to come let them in. Beerbower agreed, and Milburn, as courthouse liaison, will handle it.
Insurance Update
Milburn met with the insurance company on Oct. 13 about their rates. They provided a transcript of the meeting.
The biggest talking point of the meeting is that the county has a loss ratio of 117%, which makes their rates unaffordable on the current plans, so they will work on some new plans to present to the commission in a couple of weeks.
Tran asked what Milburn’s gut feeling on it is.
“I think they’re going to build us additional plans to make sure that everybody has something that’s affordable,” she answered.
The county’s loss ratio was 95% during the commission’s budget meetings.
They put it on the calendar for Oct. 27.
190th Street Benefit District
Johnson is still awaiting contact from the owners in the district. All the owners must agree, and they have to create an agreement with the county for repayment.
If someone defaults on that agreement, the amount is added to their tax, creating a lien on the property.
Eagle Road
Beerbower said he has heard from several residents on that road who do not want the speed limit raised, as was discussed in a previous meeting.
He moved to leave the speed limit at the current posted speed and take no further action. Motion carried.
95th & Unique
The commission decided to table it indefinitely.
Planning Commission
Jason Yount will take Brent Smith’s spot on the commission, per the county commission’s vote. Now the planning commission is full, and Johnson will reach out to the commission members to set up a meeting.
Elevator
Milburn said that the courthouse building maintenance department is working on getting quotes on repairs. To be discussed again Nov. 3.
Meetings Resolution
Beerbower read a resolution to adopt Robert’s Rules of Order to conduct commission meetings except where they conflict with the law or other procedures outlined in the resolution. The resolution also included procedures for building the meeting agenda and conducting the public comments portion of the meeting.
Sheriff Bill Martin expressed concern with the resolution section saying that his department will remove anyone who disrupts the meeting. He strongly suggested that the commissioners consider attending a training meeting to be held at the end of the month that will instruct them in how to deal with disruptive citizens in meetings.
The commission will continue discussion at the Oct. 20 meeting with the goal of passing a resolution at the Oct. 27 meeting.
Darvin Theon Willard, known affectionately to friends and family as Theon, left this world to paint the heavens on October 11, 2025. Born on August 7, 1961, in the quaint town of Ft. Scott, Kansas, Theon brought laughter and love into our lives for a wonderful 64 years before passing away of natural causes in Warrensburg, Missouri.
Theon was the life of every party, when he walked in you knew you were rocking with the best, and even in his passing, he’d want us to celebrate with joy rather than mourn with sorrow. Raised by his loving parents, Carl and Mary Helen Willard, and his stepmother, Imogene Fewell, who preceded him in death, Theon learned the value of family from an early age. His own family, including his children, Darvin Willard Jr. and Tarrell Vann, along with their spouses Amy and Erin, and his grandchildren Jade, Silas, Hannah, Malachi, Lennox, and Levik, were the apples of his eye and the punchlines to his jokes.Theon’s siblings, Shelba Williams and Gloria Mitchell, along with their husbands Frank and Charles, and his brother Craig Young. His stepbrothers, Charles “Sonny” Fewell and Mike “Frog” Fewell, and Aunt Maryetta Willard, shared in the laughter and love that Theon spread. His life was also touched by those who left before him, including his sister Peggy, brother Vincent, grandparents Mildred and Clyde, stepsister Carol, uncles Bobby and Melvin, aunts Edith and Momma Minnie, nephew Andre, and cousins Woodrow, Regina, Wayne, and Vicki.
Theon was known for his quick wit and even quicker basketball moves. His love for the game was only matched by his passion for music, cooking, and, yes, African American soap operas. The biggest lesson he gave, you had to pay attention through all the talk about food, was to be present and thoughtful about your life and your family. If you have a dollar, hide it! Pay your bills, if you don’t have anything left, at least you can go home! He loved to sit outside with his friends and family, for hours. He loved taking his great nieces and great nephews outside and letting them run wild. His relationship with his Nieces and nephews was definitely important to him. As he passed peacefully at his second home. He made sure he made fun and loving memories with the people he loved. He knew life was short and lived his life like there was no tomorrow! Today, we say goodbye to a man who was not just the heart but also the funny bone of our family. Theon’s legacy is one of joy, love, and the kind of laughter that echoes in the hearts of those he touched. While the world might be a little less bright without his physical presence, the memories of his jokes, his cooking, and his love for life will continue to shine in all of us. Darvin Theon Willard, you were a masterpiece, and like all great artists, your work will live on forever in the gallery of our hearts. Rest in peace, dear Theon, and may the angels be ready for some good old-fashioned fun. This is not our final goodbye, this is our time to say, Hey Theon, save us a seat and a plate!
Funeral service will be held at 11:00 A.M. Friday, October 17th at the Cheney Witt Chapel. The Family will receive friends from 10:00 A.M. until service time at the Cheney Witt Chapel Memorials are suggested to the Darvin Willard Memorial Fund and may be left in care of the Cheney Witt Chapel, 201 S. Main, P.O. Box 347, Ft. Scott, KS 66701. Words of remembrance may be submitted to the online guestbook at cheneywitt.com.
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Passing Annual Defense Bill to Improve Military Readiness On Thursday evening, the Senate passed the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) to make certain our servicemembers have the technology, resources and support to keep our nation safe and combat threats from our adversaries.
I introduced an amendment to improve the collaboration between the military and the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) when using Military Medical Treatment Facilities (MTFs), such as Irwin Army Hospital at Fort Riley. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and a member of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Defense, it is critical that we make certain both active duty servicemembers and veterans are provided with the opportunities to access the best possible care available to them.
I also worked to include authorizations for the construction of an air traffic control tower, automated infantry platoon battle course and new barracks at Fort Riley. This legislation advances our servicemen and women’s missions as they work tirelessly to defend our country.
You can watch my Senate floor remarks on my amendment to support access to medical care at Fort Riley here.
Speaking on Impacts of Government Shutdown on Aviation System On Thursday, I spoke on the Senate floor on the disruption the government shutdown is creating across our nation and its subsequent impacts on traveling Americans and aviation industry workers. This year, we saw how fragile our air system is when we witnessed the crash near Reagan National Airport that claimed the lives of 67 people. That accident forced Congress and our nation to reckon with airspace modernization, which we have responded to by investing $12.5 billion in air traffic control improvements, but those efforts become more difficult while Congress struggles to reach an agreement on government funding.
The federal government’s failure to pass the continuing resolution is slowly crushing our aviation system. Nine days into the shutdown, more than 17,000 flights in and out of U.S. airports were delayed. Many conflicting factors including our outdated air traffic equipment and systems, compounded with the air traffic controller workforce that is overworked and understaffed are chipping away at the sustainability and safety of our airspace. In March of this year, I introduced the Aviation Funding Stability Act, which allows the FAA to draw from the Airport and Airway Trust Fund to make certain critical operations can continue when appropriations lapse. This legislation is still important and should be passed, but the only real solution is to pass the continuing resolution. I urge my colleagues to act now to pass the short-term continuing resolution so we can alleviate pressure on our aviation system, return to doing our jobs of appropriating government funding and provide much needed certainty and stability for our nation.
You can watch my full speech on the Senate floor here.
Meeting with the Families of Flight AA5342 Victims This week, I met with families of the victims who tragically passed away aboard American Airlines Flight 5342 when it collided with an Army Black Hawk helicopter on January 29th near Ronald Reagan National Airport. During our meeting, family members provided me with updates on their meaningful efforts to advocate for improved safety in our aviation system. While investments have been made and legislation has been introduced, there is still much work to be done to keep our skies safe. I remain fully engaged in the work of supporting the ongoing investigations by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB), FAA and Army into the causes of this incident. As the NTSB works to finalize its investigation and report in the coming months, I will continue to exercise congressional oversight and consider policy changes to make certain that a tragedy like this never occurs again. Thank you to the family members who have demonstrated incredible resilience and strength in the face of profound loss and tireless dedication to the cause of aviation safety.
Discussing the Impact of a Government Shutdown on Bloomberg TV This week, I joined Bloomberg TV to discuss the importance of passing the non-partisan, short-term government funding bill to allow congressional appropriators more time to negotiate and pass all 12 full appropriations bills in a bipartisan manner.
I have never seen the value in shutting down the government. By introducing unrelated priorities into a simple, straightforward temporary funding package, Senate Democrats are causing disruptions for Americans already feeling the impacts of this government shutdown – especially those traveling and working in the aviation industry. I remain committed to working with my colleagues to reopen the government and continue the appropriations process the American people tasked us with doing.
You can watch my full interview on Bloomberg TV here.
Commemorating the October 7th Attacks on Israel On the second anniversary of Hamas’ terrorist attack against Israel, we remember the 1,200 innocent lives taken that day, including 40 Americans. Over the course of this war, countless innocent Israelis and Palestinians have endured unimaginable suffering. In the days following the October 2023 massacre, I traveled to Israel and met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other leaders to demonstrate the unbreakable bond between our nations. The United States must remain steadfast in its support for Israel and continue working toward a peace that ensures the security and lasting existence of the Jewish state while paving the way for greater stability across the region.
This week’s announcement of a ceasefire and hostage-prisoner exchange between Israel and Hamas is a long-awaited step toward that goal. President Trump’s brokered agreement offers hope for an end to the violence that has gripped the region for two years and for the safe return of all remaining hostages. While difficult challenges remain, we must stay committed to achieving a durable and lasting peace in the Middle East.
Advancing and Confirming VA Nominations This week, the U.S. Senate confirmed the nomination of James Baehr to be General Counsel at the VA and the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs advanced the nomination of Jeremiah Workman to be the Assistant Secretary for Veterans’ Employment and Training at the Department of Labor (DOL) with bipartisan support. Baehr previously served over 20 years as defense counsel and as a military judge in the U.S. Marine Corps and Reserve. With his confirmation, he will now oversee the VA’s Office of General Counsel which is essential to making certain the VA is faithfully executing the law.
Workman is also a U.S. Marine Corp veteran and has received the Navy Cross, which is the second-highest military decoration awarded to Sailors and Marines who display extraordinary heroism in combat. He followed in his family’s footsteps of serving our nation in uniform, as his grandfather served in World War II and his father served in the U.S. Army. If confirmed, he would be responsible for overseeing the implementation of strategies that would help veterans attain meaningful and fulfilling employment opportunities upon leaving military service. I look forward to confirming his nomination.
PASSED: Resolution Commemorating WWII Italian Campaign This week, the Senate passed a resolution I introduced to commemorate the Italian Campaign of World War II. This resolution recognizes the valor and gallantry of the U.S and Allied Soldiers who fought to liberate Italy from Nazi occupation and makes certain the legacy of these veterans’ sacrifices and hard-won victories endures for generations to come. As Chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs and Co-Chair of the Senate Army Caucus, I am grateful to recognize the precious few WWII veterans who are still with us today.
Discussing Aviation Priorities with the Association of Value Airlines
On Thursday, I met with the Association of Value Airlines and some of its member company CEOs, including Gregory Anderson, CEO of Allegiant; Andrew Levy, CEO of Avelo; Barry Biffle, CEO of Frontier; Dave Davis, CEO of Spirit; and Jude Bricker, CEO of Sun Country. We discussed the issues facing the industry, including market competition and fair pricing, modernization of our air traffic control system and how government shutdowns are detrimental to our nation’s airspace. While they comprise a smaller market share than major airlines, these companies serve critical routes and are committed to an industry that is vital to our economic security. I want to thank all the CEOs for their time visiting with me.
Urging FDA to Support Life
This week, I joined 50 of my Senate colleagues in expressing concerns to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the recent approval of a generic chemical abortion pill. Chemical abortion pills can pose serious health risks to women and have led to tragic outcomes. Despite these dangers, the Biden-Harris administration removed long-standing safeguards that once required in-person medical oversight and allowed these drugs to be distributed through the mail.
My colleagues and I are calling on HHS and FDA to reinstate critical protections, make certain these drugs are not distributed until their safety is thoroughly evaluated and prioritize the health and safety of women and unborn children. Life is precious and deserves our respect and protection. I will continue to stand up for the unborn and work to make certain that federal policy protects both mothers and their children.
Meeting with Kansans Manhattan Chamber of Commerce
On Tuesday, I spoke with members of the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce to discuss my recent visit to the National Bio and Agro-Defense Facility (NBAF) with U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Deputy Secretary Stephen Vaden. I shared with them the progress being made to get NBAF fully functional and my efforts to work with USDA to make certain the facility has the necessary resources to take over the work currently being done at the Plum Island Animal Disease Center.
We also spoke about the vital partnership between Fort Riley and Manhattan. With the Senate’s passage of the FY2026 National Defense Authorization Act, I introduced an amendment to the NDAA to support Irwin Army Community Hospital and bolster its capacity to deliver critical healthcare to servicemembers, their families and veterans. We also discussed opportunities for the Army to focus investments in training, equipment and personnel on Unmanned Aerial Systems technologies, specifically at Fort Riley. Bringing in more troops with these specialized skills to our communities will be a benefit for both the military and the local economy.
Finally, we discussed how federal resources have been used to support projects at Kansas State University, furthering community growth and employment opportunities. As K-State continues to grow and improve, the City of Manhattan grows along with it. I greatly appreciate the time taken by these chamber members to discuss how Manhattan can continue to thrive as a community.
Kansas City Fed President Jeff Schmid
This week, I met with Jeff Schmid, President and CEO of the Federal Reserve Bank of Kansas City, to discuss economic trends and the work being done in the Tenth Federal Reserve District. We also discussed issues across Kansas, including the need for affordable housing and the current economic challenges that farmers and ranchers are facing. I appreciate Mr. Schmid stopping by and will continue to work with him on expanding economic opportunities for Kansas.
National Down Syndrome Congress
This week, I met with representatives from the National Down Syndrome Congress, including Rachel and Jawanda Mast of Olathe. I have known Rachel and Jawanda for many years and continue to be inspired by their advocacy on behalf of individuals with Down syndrome and their families. We discussed several bills supporting individuals with Down syndrome, including my Eliminating the Marriage Penalty in SSI Act and the ABLE Employment Flexibility Act. These bills help to make certain that individuals with disabilities can live with greater independence and opportunity. As Co-chair of the Congressional Task Force on Down Syndrome, I remain committed to supporting policies that advance inclusion and improve quality of life for Kansans with disabilities.
Growth Energy
This week, I sat down with Tom Willis, Chairman of Growth Energy’s Board of Directors, and Emily Skor, Growth Energy’s CEO. Tom also serves as the CEO and President of Conestoga Energy. We discussed how Kansas agriculture and biofuels production can benefit from the 45Z Clean Fuel Production tax credit, the need for year-round availability of E15 fuel and the potential to expand ethanol exports around the world. Growth Energy is a strong advocate of the ethanol industry, and I thank them for their partnership as we work to create new markets and secure existing ones for our Kansas farmers.
The Nature Conservancy of Kansas
I had the chance to visit with the Nature Conservancy of Kansas. We discussed the conservation funding included in the Reconciliation bill as well as my CRP Improvement and Flexibility Act and the need to complete a Farm Bill that bolsters conservation programs. I appreciate the Nature Conservancy’s work with ag and natural resources stakeholders in Kansas, and I will continue to work to make certain Kansas farmers and ranchers have the tools they need to address conservation needs.
Kansas Sorghum Producers
On Wednesday, I met with Kansas representatives of National Sorghum Producers to discuss the tight margins farmers are facing and the need to expand market access. A potential record grain harvest, low prices and an uncertain amount of storage for grain only emphasize how important it is to find solutions for agricultural producers. I appreciate Amy France, Garrett Love and Craig Meeker for making the trip out to Washington and advocating for sorghum producers nationwide.
Visits Across Kansas Rawlins County Health Center
On Monday, I traveled to Atwood for a tour of Rawlins County Health Center. During my visit, I met with CEO Lucretia Stargell to discuss the Rural Health Transformation fund I helped secure in the Reconciliation bill to provide increased funding to rural hospitals in need. We also discussed how the Health Center is working to increase quality affordable care to Rawlins County. Thank you to Lucretia Stargell and all the Health Center staff for hosting me.
Following my tour, I appreciated meeting Linda Chessmore, a registered nurse (RN) at Rawlins County Health Center and the 2nd Vice District Governor of the Kansas District K Lions Club. Thank you, Linda, for your service and dedication to your community.
Cheylin High School
I visited Cheylin High School in Bird City to meet with administrators and students and receive a tour. It was great to hear from Principal Adam Wiginton about the opportunities Cheylin High School provides to bolster student success and best prepare them for the future. Thank you to Principal Wiginton, faculty, staff and students that met with me and shared their experiences.
McDonald Community
This week, I made a stop in McDonald and met with members of the community. I visited Coop Equity, McCarty Dairy and Legacy Ag Services and chatted with folks about the happenings in McDonald and priorities important to them. Thank you to the McDonald community for welcoming me and taking time to visit with me.
President Eisenhower’s Birthday
135 years ago, Kansas’ favorite son was born. An Abilene native, Dwight D. Eisenhower dedicated his life to serving Kansas and our country as a WWII five-star general & the 34th President of the United States. Today & every day, we remember his legacy & strive to keep it alive.
Now Accepting Spring 2026 Internship Applications
My own interest in public service was sparked by an internship for Kansas First District Congressman Keith Sebelius in 1974. As an intern, I had the chance to learn firsthand how a Congressional office operates and how the legislative process works. I am glad to be able to offer this same opportunity in my Senate office today, where I have interns year-round working closely with my staff to serve Kansans.
Applications for internships in my Washington, D.C. and Kansas offices for the spring 2026 session are due Sunday, October 19. Congressional internships are open to qualified undergraduate and graduate students who have an interest in public service and have achieved academic excellence. Click here for more information and to apply.
Now Accepting Spring 2026 Page Applications
Applications are now open for the Spring 2026 Senate Page Program. High school students are afforded a unique opportunity to work in the Senate and learn about Congress and the legislative process. Summer Page eligibility is limited to students who have completed their sophomore year of high school and who will be 16 or 17 years old on or before the date of appointment. The deadline to apply is Sunday, October 19. You can learn more about the Senate Page Program here.
Honored to Serve You in Washington
It is an honor to serve you in Washington, D.C. Thank you to the many Kansans who have been calling and writing in to share their thoughts and opinions on the issues our state and country face. I appreciate the words of Kansans, whether in the form of a form of letter, a Facebook comment or a phone call, who wish to make their voice heard.
Please let me know how I can be of assistance. You can contact me by email by clicking here. You can also click here to contact me through one of my Kansas offices or my Washington, D.C., office.
Very truly yours,
Jerry
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Hays
1200 Main St.,
Suite 402
P.O. Box 249
Hays, KS 67601
Phone: (785) 628-6401
TOPEKA—The Kansas Supreme Court today adopted a new rule that describes a district court’s discretion to hold a remote proceeding or allow a remote appearance, as well as the process to request either and the factors a judge may consider when deciding whether to grant such a request.
The court adopted Supreme Court Rule 103: Remote Proceedings and Appearances through Administrative Order 2025-RL-131 filed today. The rule takes effect immediately.
When developing the new rule, Acting Chief Justice Eric Rosen said the Supreme Court considered a range of scenarios a court might encounter and balanced them with feedback about the new rule it received this summer through a public comment process. Comments came from attorneys, judges, and others interested in the administration of justice.
“There are times when a remote hearing or a remote appearance will contribute to efficient case processing, just as there will be times when an in-person proceeding is absolutely essential to be fair and effective,” Rosen said. “Every case has its own set of facts and circumstances, so it was paramount the rule created a clear framework for someone to make a request while retaining a judge’s discretion whether to grant or deny the request.”
Rule 103 outlines requirements for a party to request a remote proceeding or appearance and what the district court may consider when determining whether a remote proceeding or appearance is appropriate.
A remote proceeding or appearance could be beneficial when the hearing is brief, is for a limited purpose, and conducting it remotely would increase access to justice or help offset issues related to an attorney shortage in Kansas.
Among the reasons a remote proceeding or appearance might not be appropriate are that it would undermine the integrity, fairness, or effectiveness of the proceeding, it would be inconsistent with any person’s rights under the U.S. or Kansas Constitution, or it would not allow public access.
The passage of H.R. 1 included $50 billion for the Rural Health Transformation Program. KRHIA is working with Kansas’ application development team as it prepares its plan for RHTP funding. The application must be submitted by Nov. 5. The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services will announce funding awards by Dec. 31.
The goal of the application is to support Kansas’ rural health systems, communities and patients in a holistic manner by improving access and outcomes through workforce development, education, systems change and technology.
The KRHIA held its first meeting on Oct. 9. The virtual meeting was livestreamed on YouTube and was available to view on the KDHE Rural Health Program webpage. The accessible recording will be available soon on the Kansas Rural Health Program webpage. The Oct. 16 event will be available for viewing the same way.
The final meeting will be held Oct. 20 and will also be available to view via livestream.
WHAT: Kansas Rural Health Innovation Alliance meeting
TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) and the Kansas Veterinary Diagnostic Laboratory (KVDL) at Kansas State University in collaboration with Bavarian Nordic and the One Health Commission Bat Rabies Education Team (BRET) are hosting a poster contest to educate children about rabies prevention in Kansas.
Kansas students from kindergarten to 12th grade are encouraged to participate. Winning submissions will receive a donation to their school as well as a personal prize. Submissions are due Jan. 30, 2026. More information can be found on the KVDL website.
This contest aims to raise awareness about rabies, the impacts it can have on ecosystems and how to prevent rabies transmission. Rabies is a deadly but preventable disease that can be transmitted to people by infected mammals. Wildlife such as bats, which are the origin of most human rabies cases in the United States, still play an integral role in the Kansas ecosystem through pollination and eating crop-destroying insects.
Not all wild animals have rabies, but recognizing the potential for wildlife rabies reservoirs to transmit rabies to humans and pets is crucial for rabies transmission prevention.
By following the theme, “Act Now: You, Me, Community,” the posters submitted for this contest should highlight how individuals and communities can work together to prevent rabies.
Join us to hear Turner’s performance on the church’s historic 101-year-old pipe organ.
All are welcome for an unforgettable evening of music in a remarkable setting!
Devon Turner holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Piano and Harpsichord Performance from Pittsburg State University, a Master of Music in Early Music from McGill University, and a Master of Music in Organ Performance from Pittsburg State University.
He has performed internationally in Austria and the Czech Republic, as well as in numerous early music ensembles and concerts across Canada. An active educator, he has taught private keyboard lessons since 2015.
His work as organist and music director includes positions at the First Christian Church of Pittsburg, Kansas; First United Methodist Church in Enid, Oklahoma; and First Presbyterian Church in Joplin, Missouri.
Students in grades 4–12 can bring to light an Unsung Hero, someone who made a profound and positive impact on history but whose story isn’t widely known.
Do you know a student who loves history, storytelling, or making a difference?
Encourage them to enter the
Lowell Milken Center’s Discovery Award Competition!
Students can create a documentary, performance, or website about an Unsung Hero and compete for cash prizes.
Give Your Students the Chance to Shine Beyond the Classroom
Looking for a project that combines creativity, research, and purpose through project-based learning?
The Discovery Award challenges students to uncover an Unsung Hero, an individual whose actions made a profound and positive impact on history, but who remains largely unrecognized by contemporary generations. Then bring their story to life through a documentary, performance, or website.
Perfect for grades 4–12, this competition supports project-based learning by inspiring critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
If your students are already competing in other competitions, their projects can be modified to meet the Discovery Award criteria.
Student Spotlight: Emma Manion — Bringing Ada Deer’s Story to Life
When Emma Manion, a student from Kettle Moraine High School, began researching Unsung Hero Ada Deer, she discovered far more than a history project — she found inspiration that changed the way she sees leadership, courage, and advocacy.
In this short video, Emma and her teacher, Terry Kaldhusdal, share how creating her award-winning Discovery Award performance, “Ada Deer: The Unsung Hero of Native American Advocacy,” shaped both of their lives and deepened their understanding of what one person’s actions can achieve.
Video courtesy of Kettle Moraine Communications Coordinator, Sara Otto
Each year, thousands of visitors walk through the doors of the Lowell Milken Center for Unsung Heroes—and they leave inspired. From teachers and students to lifelong learners, guests share how meaningful and powerful the Unsung Hero stories are. Their remarks just a glimpse of the impact the Center is making.
Want to experience it for yourself? Schedule a group tour or plan your visit today! Call us at 620-223-1312 or email: [email protected] for more information.
Bourbon County Community Theatre, LLC presents their annual Voices from the Grave Tour in downtown Fort Scott.
Voices from the Grave takes place from 7-9 p.m. on Oct. 25 in downtown Fort Scott, KS. Guests will enjoy a guided walking tour of short acting vignettes centering around stories of murder and mayhem in Fort Scott. Scenes were written by members of the BBCO Community Theatre Board and are based off of stories from local authors.
Tickets are $10 for adults and $7 for students and are available from bcct.ludus.com or from the Chamber of Commerce in Fort Scott. Tour times must be pre-scheduled and tours will meet at the former St. Andrew’s Chapel located at the northeast corner of National and 2nd Street. Tours will travel north to the Fort Scott National Historic Site and return back to the chapel. Parents must accompany children under the age of 14.
New this year, tour participants can purchase spirits along the route of the tour. Businesses providing drinks include Main Street Vintage & Co. at 23 S. Main, Cohn’s Cafe at 110 S. Main, and La Hacienda at 24 N. Main in Fort Scott.
More information can be found on the Bourbon County Community Theatre Facebook page or by contacting Regen Wells at 620-215-3510.
The Fort Scott Area Chamber of Commerce invites members and guests to a Chamber Coffee this Thursday, October 16th at 8am hosted by Labconco Corporation, 2500 Liberty Bell Rd. Coffee, juice, and light refreshments will be served, and attendees will have the opportunity to win a door prize drawing. There will be plant tours offered at the end of the Coffee for anyone interested.
Labconco is proud to celebrate 100 years of advancing scientific discovery, having begun in a small Kansas City garage in 1925. Over the past century, the company has grown into a global leader in lab equipment, serving researchers in more than 130 countries with solutions that support breakthroughs in medicine, forensics, environmental science, and more.
An important part of Labconco’s legacy is their facility in Fort Scott, which opened in 1988 and continues to play a key role in the company’s manufacturing operations. As Labconco looks ahead to its next century, it remains committed to innovation, sustainability, and supporting the scientific community with high‑quality instruments and service.
Contact the Chamber of Commerce at (620) 223-3566 for more information. Visit the Events Calendar and category of Chamber Coffees on fortscott.com for upcoming locations.
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Want to experience it for yourself? Schedule a group tour or plan your visit today! Call us at 620-223-1312 or email: 
