RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations following a weekend arrest.

Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of child endangerment, battery of a health care employee, and battery on a law enforcement officer in the 1800 block of College Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 Officers listed a 29-year-old female heathcare worker, a 43-year-old law enforcement officer and a 1-year-old male child as the victims.

Brittnee Armstrong, 31, of Manhattan, was believed to be under the influence and not adequately able to care for the minor child in her custody. 

Armstrong was arrested on requested charges of of child endangerment, battery of a healthcare employee, and battery on an LEO. Total bond was set at $6,000. Armstrong was confined at the time of this report

RILEY COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations following a weekend arrest.Just before 7p.m. Saturday, officers filed a report of child endangerment, battery of a health care employee, and battery on a law enforcement officer in the 1800 block of College Avenue in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. Officers listed a 29-year-old female heathcare worker, a 43-year-old law enforcement officer and a 1-year-old male child as the victims.Brittnee Armstrong, 31, of Manhattan, was believed to be under the influence and not adequately able to care for the minor child in her custody. Armstrong was arrested on requested charges of of child endangerment, battery of a healthcare employee, and battery on an LEO. Total bond was set at $6,000. Armstrong was confined at the time of this report

Manhattan woman accused of attack on healthcare worker, officer

Due to the weather this past weekend and the lack of internet service, I am not getting this report out until today ( Monday ).

When I left the office early on Friday afternoon to travel about 60 miles from here to watch my Granddaughter Dakota play her last softball game of the year I, like many others, had no idea what was ahead. As I sat in the hot sun at the ball game, I soon began getting alerts and texts about the weather here in Junction City. I saw reports of the damage and received pictures of the flooding, trees in the street, limbs and branches in many yards and the collapsed building downtown.

During the storm itself, the Police and Fire Departments were out in it all doing their job and taking care of the City. The Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works employees responded that evening. They have continued to work all weekend and will continue this week.

The Playground Park and Swimming Pool on Fifth Street were covered with limbs and debris. Heritage Park had very little damage as a number of older and dead and dying trees had already been taken care of earlier.

Public Works Crews will continue to pick up limbs and debris throughout the City as well as repair traffic lights that had been damaged and are not working. All we ask is for everyone to be patient.

On top of all of this Freedom Fest will be held this week and they will have everything ready to go for this annual event. The City employees are a vital component to make this event happen.

Also, I want to give a shout out to he Veolia Water crews who kept the Water and the 2 Waste Water Plants in operation. On the wastewater side they were slammed with a larger volume as storm water does enter the manholes and gets sent to the Sewer plants. No doubt the storm water system was over taxed because it can handle only so much water. They are not designed to handle that large amount of water in a short period of time.

When you see the City employees who are doing their job to take care of the City and you, give them a big Thank-you.

Enjoy this week as we celebrate the 248 Anniversary of this Country. Hope to see you all at Freedom Fest.

If you have not been to Rathert Field this year, come out on Sunday, July 6 to watch the Junction City Brigade play the US Military War Dogs at 6 P.M. The War Dogs Baseball program is made up of military-affiliated players who raise awareness to those who have served our country and deal with many challenges they face. Make sure you are there for the pre-game festivities.

Due to the weather this past weekend and the lack of internet service, I am not getting this report out until today ( Monday ).When I left the office early on Friday afternoon to travel about 60 miles from here to watch my Granddaughter Dakota play her last softball game of the year I, like many others, had no idea what was ahead. As I sat in the hot sun at the ball game, I soon began getting alerts and texts about the weather here in Junction City. I saw reports of the damage and received pictures of the flooding, trees in the street, limbs and branches in many yards and the collapsed building downtown.During the storm itself, the Police and Fire Departments were out in it all doing their job and taking care of the City. The Parks and Recreation Department and Public Works employees responded that evening. They have continued to work all weekend and will continue this week.The Playground Park and Swimming Pool on Fifth Street were covered with limbs and debris. Heritage Park had very little damage as a number of older and dead and dying trees had already been taken care of earlier.Public Works Crews will continue to pick up limbs and debris throughout the City as well as repair traffic lights that had been damaged and are not working. All we ask is for everyone to be patient.On top of all of this Freedom Fest will be held this week and they will have everything ready to go for this annual event. The City employees are a vital component to make this event happen.Also, I want to give a shout out to he Veolia Water crews who kept the Water and the 2 Waste Water Plants in operation. On the wastewater side they were slammed with a larger volume as storm water does enter the manholes and gets sent to the Sewer plants. No doubt the storm water system was over taxed because it can handle only so much water. They are not designed to handle that large amount of water in a short period of time.When you see the City employees who are doing their job to take care of the City and you, give them a big Thank-you.Enjoy this week as we celebrate the 248 Anniversary of this Country. Hope to see you all at Freedom Fest.If you have not been to Rathert Field this year, come out on Sunday, July 6 to watch the Junction City Brigade play the US Military War Dogs at 6 P.M. The War Dogs Baseball program is made up of military-affiliated players who raise awareness to those who have served our country and deal with many challenges they face. Make sure you are there for the pre-game festivities.

City manager issues the 515 Report

MANHATTAN— Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex in Manhattan.

Just before 7a.m. Monday crews were dispatched to an apartment building fire at 2514 Stagg Hill Road in Manhattan, according to a media release.

Crews found a three-story apartment building with smoke showing from the top floor. The building was searched and the fire was extinguished within 15 minutes.&nbsp; 

The fire damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started. No injuries were reported. Stagg Hill Road was closed for about an hour.

Loss is estimated at $50,000. The owner is listed as the Russell K. Briggs Trust of Manhattan.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719841906255.jpeg" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>MANHATTAN— Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire at an apartment complex in Manhattan.Just before 7a.m. Monday crews were dispatched to an apartment building fire at 2514 Stagg Hill Road in Manhattan, according to a media release.Crews found a three-story apartment building with smoke showing from the top floor. The building was searched and the fire was extinguished within 15 minutes.&nbsp; The fire damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started. No injuries were reported. Stagg Hill Road was closed for about an hour.Loss is estimated at $50,000. The owner is listed as the Russell K. Briggs Trust of Manhattan.&nbsp;

$50,000 damage after apartment fire in Manhattan

FORT RILEY, Kan. - The Army said that the winner of the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition, held from June 24-27, is the 4th Infantry Division Squad. This winning team will advance to compete in the FORSCOM Best Squad Competition at Fort Carson, Colorado, in August.

This year, Fort Riley hosted the competition, welcoming ten teams from across the III Armored Corps. These teams faced 14 challenging events designed to test their physical and combat capabilities. The competition featured a variety of mental and physical combat-related events, including the Army Combat Fitness Test, various weapons lanes, a strenuous 12-mile foot march, detailed individual warrior tasks and squad battle drills, and a Soldier knowledge board.

Over the week-long competition, each squad was assessed on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team.

“We didn’t show up for second place. If you’re showing up just to place, you’re not here for the right reason,” said SPC Felix Vazquez, a member of the 4ID Squad.

The most influential level of leadership is at the squad level, where the majority of our Soldiers reside. The concept of "squad" extends beyond a traditional infantry squad to any small-unit group of Soldiers connected by a squad leader, who is the core of the squad, and has the most direct impact on their lives.

“It was really hot and really humid. So definitely the biggest part was keeping your guys pushing through, keeping that mindset that you’re going to win.” said SGT Jamon Lacrosse, Squad Leader of the 4ID Squad.

Soldiers never fight alone; the unbreakable bonds forged through shared hardship and unwavering support for one another are the hallmark of our most successful small units. Each squad in the competition consisted of five Soldiers: a squad leader, a team leader, and three squad members.

SGM Micheal Sanchez, 3rd Armored Corps G-3 Sergent Major, was grateful for all the teams who participated in this Best Squad event.” I can’t express how proud of each and every one of you I am. And all the respect for all the organizations involved,” Sanchez said.

FORT RILEY, Kan. - The Army said that the winner of the III Armored Corps Best Squad Competition, held from June 24-27, is the 4th Infantry Division Squad. This winning team will advance to compete in the FORSCOM Best Squad Competition at Fort Carson, Colorado, in August.This year, Fort Riley hosted the competition, welcoming ten teams from across the III Armored Corps. These teams faced 14 challenging events designed to test their physical and combat capabilities. The competition featured a variety of mental and physical combat-related events, including the Army Combat Fitness Test, various weapons lanes, a strenuous 12-mile foot march, detailed individual warrior tasks and squad battle drills, and a Soldier knowledge board.Over the week-long competition, each squad was assessed on their technical and tactical proficiency, as well as their ability to work as a disciplined and cohesive team.“We didn’t show up for second place. If you’re showing up just to place, you’re not here for the right reason,” said SPC Felix Vazquez, a member of the 4ID Squad.The most influential level of leadership is at the squad level, where the majority of our Soldiers reside. The concept of "squad" extends beyond a traditional infantry squad to any small-unit group of Soldiers connected by a squad leader, who is the core of the squad, and has the most direct impact on their lives.“It was really hot and really humid. So definitely the biggest part was keeping your guys pushing through, keeping that mindset that you’re going to win.” said SGT Jamon Lacrosse, Squad Leader of the 4ID Squad.Soldiers never fight alone; the unbreakable bonds forged through shared hardship and unwavering support for one another are the hallmark of our most successful small units. Each squad in the competition consisted of five Soldiers: a squad leader, a team leader, and three squad members.SGM Micheal Sanchez, 3rd Armored Corps G-3 Sergent Major, was grateful for all the teams who participated in this Best Squad event.” I can’t express how proud of each and every one of you I am. And all the respect for all the organizations involved,” Sanchez said.

III Armored Corps’ Best Squad Announced

The Pilot club of Junction City recently installed the new executive board for the 2024-2025 service and program year.

The club is looking forward to the coming Pilot year .

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719761109645.jpeg" alt="Pictured from left: President Nichole Mader, President Elect Shelley Hopper, Treasurer Sharon Strain, Secretary Kathy Tremont, Past President Kay Gatza." />
 <figcaption>Pictured from left: President Nichole Mader, President Elect Shelley Hopper, Treasurer Sharon Strain, Secretary Kathy Tremont, Past President Kay Gatza.</figcaption>
 </figure>The Pilot club of Junction City recently installed the new executive board for the 2024-2025 service and program year.The club is looking forward to the coming Pilot year .

Pilot Club installs new executive board

Ralph Webb Davis, Junction City, who goes by his middle name of Webb, turns 100 years old on Tuesday, July 2. There was a party to celebrate his birthday Sunday at the Valley View Estates Community Room. The party was open to the community.

Webb had a chance to visit with friends during the party.

Webb sat down with JC Post this past week to talk about his life. He was born on a family farm, one and a half miles south of Aullville, Missouri and was the last of six siblings.&nbsp;

Webb lived in multiple Missouri communities when he was young and worked on the family&nbsp; farm from the age of 17 until he was 28. At&nbsp; that point he worked for Safeway Stores before moving to Junction City in 1954 to manage the A &amp; P grocery store on 7th Street. He&nbsp; has lived in Junction City ever since then.

Davis noted he liked Junction City and the people. "Of all the places I've lived it's the most friendly place I've ever been."

Davis would later work for Keintz IGA, sell insurance, purchase and operate a Western Auto store before closing it in 1979 and opening a small engine repair shop. He retired in 1985.

Following the death of his first wife, Willa, Webb would later remarry Marjorie Gatza ( Davis ) who would eventually serve as a longtime Geary County Clerk. His two stepsons Dale and Daryl Gatza, and Marjorie have all passed away. Webb's daughter, Karen Flynn, Crossville, Tennessee, is working to coordinate the birthday party.

Webb said his health is good and he takes no prescription medication, only one vitamin a day. He is looking forward to seeing his great grandchildren on Sunday.&nbsp;

Webb has enjoyed participation in multiple civic clubs including the Elks Lodge, Eagles and the former Sertoma Club. He has also attended the Presbyterian Church since 1955. 

Davis is a sports fan of the Junction City Blue Jays, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. He also points to fishing as a favorite.&nbsp; Listening to games on the radio is one of his fun activities.

Davis enjoys people, saying that those he has met have been the greatest part of his life. He said on Sunday that he would tell the people, "I love them all."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719676460466.jpeg" alt="Ralph Webb Davis" />
 <figcaption>Ralph Webb Davis</figcaption>
 </figure>Ralph Webb Davis, Junction City, who goes by his middle name of Webb, turns 100 years old on Tuesday, July 2. There was a party to celebrate his birthday Sunday at the Valley View Estates Community Room. The party was open to the community.Webb had a chance to visit with friends during the party.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719781411245.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719781484157.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Webb sat down with JC Post this past week to talk about his life. He was born on a family farm, one and a half miles south of Aullville, Missouri and was the last of six siblings.&nbsp;Webb lived in multiple Missouri communities when he was young and worked on the family&nbsp; farm from the age of 17 until he was 28. At&nbsp; that point he worked for Safeway Stores before moving to Junction City in 1954 to manage the A &amp; P grocery store on 7th Street. He&nbsp; has lived in Junction City ever since then.Davis noted he liked Junction City and the people. "Of all the places I've lived it's the most friendly place I've ever been."Davis would later work for Keintz IGA, sell insurance, purchase and operate a Western Auto store before closing it in 1979 and opening a small engine repair shop. He retired in 1985.Following the death of his first wife, Willa, Webb would later remarry Marjorie Gatza ( Davis ) who would eventually serve as a longtime Geary County Clerk. His two stepsons Dale and Daryl Gatza, and Marjorie have all passed away. Webb's daughter, Karen Flynn, Crossville, Tennessee, is working to coordinate the birthday party.Webb said his health is good and he takes no prescription medication, only one vitamin a day. He is looking forward to seeing his great grandchildren on Sunday.&nbsp;Webb has enjoyed participation in multiple civic clubs including the Elks Lodge, Eagles and the former Sertoma Club. He has also attended the Presbyterian Church since 1955. Davis is a sports fan of the Junction City Blue Jays, Kansas City Chiefs and Kansas City Royals. He also points to fishing as a favorite.&nbsp; Listening to games on the radio is one of his fun activities.Davis enjoys people, saying that those he has met have been the greatest part of his life. He said on Sunday that he would tell the people, "I love them all."

One of Junction City's long time residents prepares for a big birthday

Junction City / Geary County United Way is trying to get volunteers together to help with clean up as well as get a list of people who are needing help with clean up - elderly, disabled, disadvantaged, etc. 

 People who want to help or need help can call the United Way ( 785-238-2117 ) or message them through Facebook.

United way releaseJunction City / Geary County United Way is trying to get volunteers together to help with clean up as well as get a list of people who are needing help with clean up - elderly, disabled, disadvantaged, etc. People who want to help or need help can call the United Way ( 785-238-2117 ) or message them through Facebook.

United Way seeks storm cleanup volunteers

Doulas help new and expecting families navigate pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Studies show their intervention improves maternal health outcomes.

By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga</a> KCUR

KanCare, Kansas’ Medicaid program, will cover doula services for its pregnant beneficiaries beginning July 1. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSDHE/bulletins/3a3f697" target="_blank">release</a>&nbsp;that the policy change aims to improve maternal health outcomes in Kansas.

"Doulas play a vital role in the health and well-being of mothers and their babies, and this new coverage will ensure more families in Kansas can benefit from their services,” Janet Stanek, KDHE secretary, said in the release.

Doulas serve as advocates and educators for pregnant women. Many of them are on call 24/7, answering anxious texts and phone calls from moms-to-be or rushing to meet their clients in labor to attend their births.

Sara Skiles, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichitadoula.com/" target="_blank">Wichita Doula</a>, said doulas bridge the gap between overloaded OB-GYNs and their patients.

“Medical providers can only see the family so many times in the pregnancy and in the postpartum period,” she said. “So a lot of times they don't have anywhere to go or anyone to call for support.”

Skiles said doctors traditionally schedule a follow-up visit six weeks after a person has given birth. She said that six-week period can be a vulnerable time for new moms and their infants.

“A lot of things can go wrong with mental health, physical health, the newborn, challenges with breastfeeding,” Skiles said.

Although doulas are not physicians, they go through various training and certification courses. Skiles said doulas do home visits and talk to their clients about what is and isn’t normal and when to see a doctor.

That type of support can be lifesaving. Moms who use doulas are two times less likely to experience birth complications and four times less likely to give birth to an underweight baby, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10292163/#:~:text=The%20results%20of%20the%20study,to%20initiate%20breastfeeding%20%5B31%5D." target="_blank">National Institutes of Health</a>.

And Kansas moms need this type of support.

Severe maternal morbidity, when a person experiences extreme complications during labor and delivery that impact their long- or short-term health, increased by 6.4% annually between 2016 and 2020, according to a study from the Kansas Maternal Mortality Review Committee.

Kansas moms on Medicaid or from low-income ZIP codes and women of color disproportionately bear the brunt of pregnancy and post-pregnancy complications.

Doula care coverage was already in the works

Before KanCare’s announcement about expanding coverage to pay for doulas,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-11-28/kansas-medicaid-doesnt-cover-birth-doulas-but-one-contractor-is-footing-the-bill-to-help-moms" target="_blank">another Medicaid provider stepped up</a>. In 2022, UnitedHealthcare, one of the state’s three Medicaid providers, began a pilot program to cover doula care for moms in Wyandotte County on the UnitedHealthcare Medicaid plan.

Eventually, Kansas became&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uhc.com/news-articles/community/doula-network" target="_blank">one of 5 states</a>&nbsp;taking part in a broader pilot program, covering doula services for all moms in Kansas on UnitedHealthcare’s Medicaid program.

Various advocacy groups, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbirthjusticesociety.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Birth Justice Society</a>&nbsp;in Wichita, have pushed for years for insurance companies to cover doula services.

Jaima Saunders, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/mommydiarieskc" target="_blank">Mommy Diaries: A Doula Company</a>, primarily serves clients in Wyandotte County. She was one of the early recruits for the pilot program. Since 2022, she said she’s served more than 30 moms on Medicaid. She said she is excited the state Medicaid program will now cover doula services for its beneficiaries.

“It’s been a long time coming,” Saunders said. “I kind of knew about it in the works back in February or March of this year; I just didn't know when they were going to actually roll it out.”

Saunders said before the announcement, she helped multiple Kansas moms on Medicaid switch to UnitedHealthcare so they could access free doula care.

Doula concerns about the KanCare policy change

While the policy change is monumental for women on Medicaid in Kansas, some doulas have concerns. Skiles, the doula from Wichita, said she worries reimbursement rates will not be fair.

“We have heard in some other states the reimbursement rates were below market rate, which would make it really difficult to continue to make a living as a doula,” she said.

The National Health Law Program&nbsp;<a href="https://healthlaw.org/doula-medicaid-project-february-2024-state-roundup/" target="_blank">reports 12 other states</a>, like Oklahoma and Minnesota, and Washington, D.C., have implemented Medicaid coverage of doula care as of January. Missouri hasn't expanded coverage to the state Medicaid program, but Medicaid provider Healthy Blue has a pilot program similar to UnitedHealthcare's.

Skiles is also concerned that Kansas doesn’t have enough doulas to support the influx of clients on Medicaid.

“We're going to have to expand. We're going to have to have more people training to become doulas that want to work with and serve these populations,” Skiles said.

A spokesperson for KDHE said they’ve been working closely with the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbirthjusticesociety.org/kansas-doula-alliance/" target="_blank">Kansas Doula Alliance</a>, an arm of the Kansas Birth Justice Society, to spread information to Kansas doulas encouraging them to enroll as KanCare providers and spread the news about the policy change.

“The Alliance will also provide professional development and training to doulas that will prepare them for certification for the KanCare provider enrollment process in order to receive reimbursement for their services,” the KDHE spokesperson said in an email to the Kansas News Service.

The spokesperson said KDHE is also encouraging hospitals, clinics and medical providers in the state to add doulas to their teams.

Saunders said the policy changes are overall a step in the right direction. She said she thinks commercial insurance programs will soon start offering to cover doula services, too, and she is excited to help more moms.

“If a mom is pregnant, her mental health and her baby's mental health starts with pregnancy before the baby even is on the earth,” she said. “So just to be able to take certain stressors off of moms and their families is a total success story every single time for me.”

<h2>Doulas help new and expecting families navigate pregnancy, birth and the postpartum period. Studies show their intervention improves maternal health outcomes.</h2><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719608667349.png" alt="Sara Skiles (left), owner of Wichita Doula, sits with a client.&nbsp;Courtesy Photo/Wichita Doula" />
 <figcaption>Sara Skiles (left), owner of Wichita Doula, sits with a client.&nbsp;Courtesy Photo/Wichita Doula</figcaption>
 </figure>By&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/bek-shackelford">Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga</a> KCUR KanCare, Kansas’ Medicaid program, will cover doula services for its pregnant beneficiaries beginning July 1. The Kansas Department of Health and Environment said in a&nbsp;<a href="https://content.govdelivery.com/accounts/KSDHE/bulletins/3a3f697" target="_blank">release</a>&nbsp;that the policy change aims to improve maternal health outcomes in Kansas."Doulas play a vital role in the health and well-being of mothers and their babies, and this new coverage will ensure more families in Kansas can benefit from their services,” Janet Stanek, KDHE secretary, said in the release.Doulas serve as advocates and educators for pregnant women. Many of them are on call 24/7, answering anxious texts and phone calls from moms-to-be or rushing to meet their clients in labor to attend their births.Sara Skiles, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wichitadoula.com/" target="_blank">Wichita Doula</a>, said doulas bridge the gap between overloaded OB-GYNs and their patients.“Medical providers can only see the family so many times in the pregnancy and in the postpartum period,” she said. “So a lot of times they don't have anywhere to go or anyone to call for support.”Skiles said doctors traditionally schedule a follow-up visit six weeks after a person has given birth. She said that six-week period can be a vulnerable time for new moms and their infants.“A lot of things can go wrong with mental health, physical health, the newborn, challenges with breastfeeding,” Skiles said.Although doulas are not physicians, they go through various training and certification courses. Skiles said doulas do home visits and talk to their clients about what is and isn’t normal and when to see a doctor.That type of support can be lifesaving. Moms who use doulas are two times less likely to experience birth complications and four times less likely to give birth to an underweight baby, according to the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10292163/#:~:text=The%20results%20of%20the%20study,to%20initiate%20breastfeeding%20%5B31%5D." target="_blank">National Institutes of Health</a>.And Kansas moms need this type of support.Severe maternal morbidity, when a person experiences extreme complications during labor and delivery that impact their long- or short-term health, increased by 6.4% annually between 2016 and 2020, according to a study from the Kansas Maternal Mortality Review Committee.Kansas moms on Medicaid or from low-income ZIP codes and women of color disproportionately bear the brunt of pregnancy and post-pregnancy complications.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719608698297.png" alt="Jaima Saunders poses for a portrait in her mom's Kansas City, Kansas, home in November. Saunders meets some of her doula clients at her mom's house. Saunders said she is driven to help Black moms in Kansas City, Kansas, where she is from, because of the disparities they face.&nbsp;Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Jaima Saunders poses for a portrait in her mom's Kansas City, Kansas, home in November. Saunders meets some of her doula clients at her mom's house. Saunders said she is driven to help Black moms in Kansas City, Kansas, where she is from, because of the disparities they face.&nbsp;Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Doula care coverage was already in the worksBefore KanCare’s announcement about expanding coverage to pay for doulas,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2023-11-28/kansas-medicaid-doesnt-cover-birth-doulas-but-one-contractor-is-footing-the-bill-to-help-moms" target="_blank">another Medicaid provider stepped up</a>. In 2022, UnitedHealthcare, one of the state’s three Medicaid providers, began a pilot program to cover doula care for moms in Wyandotte County on the UnitedHealthcare Medicaid plan.Eventually, Kansas became&nbsp;<a href="https://www.uhc.com/news-articles/community/doula-network" target="_blank">one of 5 states</a>&nbsp;taking part in a broader pilot program, covering doula services for all moms in Kansas on UnitedHealthcare’s Medicaid program.Various advocacy groups, such as the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbirthjusticesociety.org/" target="_blank">Kansas Birth Justice Society</a>&nbsp;in Wichita, have pushed for years for insurance companies to cover doula services.Jaima Saunders, owner of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/mommydiarieskc" target="_blank">Mommy Diaries: A Doula Company</a>, primarily serves clients in Wyandotte County. She was one of the early recruits for the pilot program. Since 2022, she said she’s served more than 30 moms on Medicaid. She said she is excited the state Medicaid program will now cover doula services for its beneficiaries.“It’s been a long time coming,” Saunders said. “I kind of knew about it in the works back in February or March of this year; I just didn't know when they were going to actually roll it out.”Saunders said before the announcement, she helped multiple Kansas moms on Medicaid switch to UnitedHealthcare so they could access free doula care.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719608726281.png" alt="Doula Jaima Saunders shows off various items she uses to make pregnant women more comfortable before and during labor and delivery. During their birth, Saunders does things like play soft, tonal music, soak the mom's feet, and use massage tools to help ease the pain.&nbsp;Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service" />
 <figcaption>Doula Jaima Saunders shows off various items she uses to make pregnant women more comfortable before and during labor and delivery. During their birth, Saunders does things like play soft, tonal music, soak the mom's feet, and use massage tools to help ease the pain.&nbsp;Bek Shackelford-Nwanganga/Kansas News Service</figcaption>
 </figure>Doula concerns about the KanCare policy changeWhile the policy change is monumental for women on Medicaid in Kansas, some doulas have concerns. Skiles, the doula from Wichita, said she worries reimbursement rates will not be fair.“We have heard in some other states the reimbursement rates were below market rate, which would make it really difficult to continue to make a living as a doula,” she said.The National Health Law Program&nbsp;<a href="https://healthlaw.org/doula-medicaid-project-february-2024-state-roundup/" target="_blank">reports 12 other states</a>, like Oklahoma and Minnesota, and Washington, D.C., have implemented Medicaid coverage of doula care as of January. Missouri hasn't expanded coverage to the state Medicaid program, but Medicaid provider Healthy Blue has a pilot program similar to UnitedHealthcare's.Skiles is also concerned that Kansas doesn’t have enough doulas to support the influx of clients on Medicaid.“We're going to have to expand. We're going to have to have more people training to become doulas that want to work with and serve these populations,” Skiles said.A spokesperson for KDHE said they’ve been working closely with the&nbsp;<a href="https://ksbirthjusticesociety.org/kansas-doula-alliance/" target="_blank">Kansas Doula Alliance</a>, an arm of the Kansas Birth Justice Society, to spread information to Kansas doulas encouraging them to enroll as KanCare providers and spread the news about the policy change.“The Alliance will also provide professional development and training to doulas that will prepare them for certification for the KanCare provider enrollment process in order to receive reimbursement for their services,” the KDHE spokesperson said in an email to the Kansas News Service.The spokesperson said KDHE is also encouraging hospitals, clinics and medical providers in the state to add doulas to their teams.Saunders said the policy changes are overall a step in the right direction. She said she thinks commercial insurance programs will soon start offering to cover doula services, too, and she is excited to help more moms.“If a mom is pregnant, her mental health and her baby's mental health starts with pregnancy before the baby even is on the earth,” she said. “So just to be able to take certain stressors off of moms and their families is a total success story every single time for me.”

Kansas Medicaid will soon cover doulas; research shows they reduce birth complications

GEARY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Geary County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Peterson Noe, 32, Key West, Florida, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Henry Drive.

The vehicle traveled off the left side of the road due to wind. The semi tipped over on the driver's side, and came to rest in the center median.

EMS transported Noe to Ascension Via Christi. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

GEARY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just after 7p.m. Friday in Geary County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Freightliner semi driven by&nbsp; Peterson Noe, 32, Key West, Florida, was westbound on Interstate 70 just west of Henry Drive.The vehicle traveled off the left side of the road due to wind. The semi tipped over on the driver's side, and came to rest in the center median.EMS transported Noe to Ascension Via Christi. He was properly restrained, according to the KHP.

Driver hospitalized after semi overturns in the wind

The Geary County Public Works department will have the Landfill open special hours this weekend due to the recent weather damage. This Landfill is for tree and brush disposal only.&nbsp;

Saturday, June 29, the Landfill will be open 8AM - 5PMSunday, June 30, the Landfill will be&nbsp;open 10AM - 5PMThe Landfill will resume normal operation hours on Monday, July 1.&nbsp; &nbsp;

The Geary County Public Works department will have the Landfill open special hours this weekend due to the recent weather damage. This Landfill is for tree and brush disposal only.&nbsp;Saturday, June 29, the Landfill will be open 8AM - 5PMSunday, June 30, the Landfill will be&nbsp;open 10AM - 5PMThe Landfill will resume normal operation hours on Monday, July 1.&nbsp; &nbsp;

County landfill will be open over the weekend

Damage in Grandview Plaza from the Friday night storm.

Photos of the Friday night storm damage has been sent to the National Weather Service for review. They will also check radar records.

Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed the roof was torn off of a vacant building in the 1000 block of Grant Ave. during the storm.

As of 10:20 a.m. Saturday, Evergy reported 81 power outages affecting 2,708 customers in the Junction City, Milford, Wakefield area. Power crews from Evergy, DSO and Flint Hills Electric have been making repairs.&nbsp;

Downed tree limbs are being hauled to the county landfill.

Authorities said that the building that partially collapsed was located in the 600 block of North Washington. The structure was vacant and there were not any injuries.

Also in Junction City there is tree damage in addition to multiple power outages. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said rainfall recorded at McFarland Rd. and U.S 77 totaled 5.97 inches.

10 p.m. : As of 10 o'clock Friday evening there were 33 power outages, impacting 4,040 customers in Junction City.

Friday evening: Emergency Management:&nbsp;

Many areas and basements are flooding due to the large amount of rain Junction City area has received.  Unless you have medical emergency first responders are unable to assist.  If you have a utility issue please call them directly.  You will need to seek a restoration service or other means.  Be sure to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible as well.  Additional information will be coming from other agencies.&nbsp;

Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges reported that one building in downtown Junction City has collapsed. Geary County Sheriff Eric Coffman was able to report that a vacant building in the 600 block of North Washington has partially collapsed. There were not any injuries reported.

Evergy is reporting 133 power outages in the Junction City area. A total of 10, 859 customers are without electricity.

Sheriff Eric Coffman said that there were power outages in Milford State Park and Old Milford Rd areas. Those areas are served by DSO.

Please stay home, do not travel. If you have to travel and the road you are on has water and is flooded, PLEASE TURN AROUND. Police have received numerous calls from individuals who have flooded their cars and become stranded. There are powerlines down across the city and crews are working to remove debris and powerlines from the roads.

Safety Tips if You Become Stranded in a Flood:1. Stay Calm: Keep calm and try to assess the situation.2. Stay in Your Car: If the water is not too deep, it's often safer to stay in your vehicle until help arrives.3. Call for Help: Use your phone to call emergency services and inform them of your location.4. Move to Higher Ground: If water is rising inside the car, get out and move to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.5. Avoid Moving Water: Do not walk through moving water, as even a few inches can knock you off your feet.6. Turn on Hazard Lights: Make your car more visible to rescuers by turning on your hazard lights.7. Do Not Touch Power Lines: Avoid any downed power lines or electrical equipment that may be in contact with water. Remember, your safety is the most important thing. Do not take unnecessary risks by attempting to drive through floodwaters. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN! Stay safe, Junction City.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Severe thunderstorm activity has led to flash flooding throughout junction City. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges is asking motorists to stay off the streets if possible. More than three inches of rain has fallen and there are multiple downed power lines.&nbsp;

Other areas have received damage that is being assessed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719627442990.jpeg" alt="6oo block North Washington. ( Photo passed along by Geary County sheriff's Department )" />
 <figcaption>6oo block North Washington. ( Photo passed along by Geary County sheriff's Department )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostUPDATE:Damage in Grandview Plaza from the Friday night storm.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719697106050.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719697124594.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719697144354.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>---Photos of the Friday night storm damage has been sent to the National Weather Service for review. They will also check radar records.Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges confirmed the roof was torn off of a vacant building in the 1000 block of Grant Ave. during the storm.As of 10:20 a.m. Saturday, Evergy reported 81 power outages affecting 2,708 customers in the Junction City, Milford, Wakefield area. Power crews from Evergy, DSO and Flint Hills Electric have been making repairs.&nbsp;Downed tree limbs are being hauled to the county landfill.----Authorities said that the building that partially collapsed was located in the 600 block of North Washington. The structure was vacant and there were not any injuries.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719629130824.jpeg" alt="Photo by Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Photo by Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Also in Junction City there is tree damage in addition to multiple power outages. Emergency Management Director Garry Berges said rainfall recorded at McFarland Rd. and U.S 77 totaled 5.97 inches.10 p.m. : As of 10 o'clock Friday evening there were 33 power outages, impacting 4,040 customers in Junction City.UPDATE:Friday evening: Emergency Management:&nbsp;

Many areas and basements are flooding due to the large amount of rain Junction City area has received. Unless you have medical emergency first responders are unable to assist. If you have a utility issue please call them directly. You will need to seek a restoration service or other means. Be sure to contact your insurance provider as soon as possible as well. Additional information will be coming from other agencies.&nbsp;---Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges reported that one building in downtown Junction City has collapsed. Geary County Sheriff Eric Coffman was able to report that a vacant building in the 600 block of North Washington has partially collapsed. There were not any injuries reported.7:53 p.m.Evergy is reporting 133 power outages in the Junction City area. A total of 10, 859 customers are without electricity.Sheriff Eric Coffman said that there were power outages in Milford State Park and Old Milford Rd areas. Those areas are served by DSO.---JCPD:Please stay home, do not travel. If you have to travel and the road you are on has water and is flooded, PLEASE TURN AROUND. Police have received numerous calls from individuals who have flooded their cars and become stranded. There are powerlines down across the city and crews are working to remove debris and powerlines from the roads.Safety Tips if You Become Stranded in a Flood:1. Stay Calm: Keep calm and try to assess the situation.2. Stay in Your Car: If the water is not too deep, it's often safer to stay in your vehicle until help arrives.3. Call for Help: Use your phone to call emergency services and inform them of your location.4. Move to Higher Ground: If water is rising inside the car, get out and move to higher ground, if it is safe to do so.5. Avoid Moving Water: Do not walk through moving water, as even a few inches can knock you off your feet.6. Turn on Hazard Lights: Make your car more visible to rescuers by turning on your hazard lights.7. Do Not Touch Power Lines: Avoid any downed power lines or electrical equipment that may be in contact with water. Remember, your safety is the most important thing. Do not take unnecessary risks by attempting to drive through floodwaters. TURN AROUND, DON’T DROWN! Stay safe, Junction City.&nbsp;&nbsp;----Severe thunderstorm activity has led to flash flooding throughout junction City. Geary County Emergency Management Director Garry Berges is asking motorists to stay off the streets if possible. More than three inches of rain has fallen and there are multiple downed power lines.&nbsp;Other areas have received damage that is being assessed.

Severe thunderstorm hits Junction City

On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/hGjCNsEVCWs?si=hAlyHJIUTd0Ur0xS" title="YouTube video player" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>On this episode of Forward Ever: Leading in Challenging Times, host Gary Shorman speaks with&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/permalink.php?story_fbid=pfbid02476pG1zvXUF3tZFCmdBfsbNyAbJX2ZCpcW6QVSeqSQYYYFjoEUdhNH77tCR42Mxrl&amp;id=100083234953528" target="_blank">Kansas Search and Rescue Dog Association</a>&nbsp;director Deidra Stanley.

🎤Forward Ever: Search dog association director Deidra Stanley

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Friday in Riley County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Kasawaki Ninja ZX6 driven by&nbsp;&nbsp;Antrevion Leander George Watson, 22, Manhattan, was northbound on Scenic Drive negotiating the roundabout.

A 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by Errol Frank&nbsp;Remsing, 74, Manhattan, failed to yield, entered the roundabout and struck the motorcycle.

EMS transported Watson to Via Christi. Remsing was not injured. Watson was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

RILEY COUNTY —One person was injured in an accident just before 3p.m. Friday in Riley County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2024 Kasawaki Ninja ZX6 driven by&nbsp;&nbsp;Antrevion Leander George Watson, 22, Manhattan, was northbound on Scenic Drive negotiating the roundabout.A 2014 Dodge Ram 1500 driven by Errol Frank&nbsp;Remsing, 74, Manhattan, failed to yield, entered the roundabout and struck the motorcycle.EMS transported Watson to Via Christi. Remsing was not injured. Watson was wearing a helmet, according to the KHP.

Manhattan man hospitalized after crash in roundabout

Kansas Department of Health and Environment

TOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green&nbsp;algae.

A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying&nbsp;algae&nbsp;on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away.

These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.

Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.

If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae&nbsp;rinse the area with clean, fresh water.

Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.FHhBnBcSPYqvyz7qCawS37ShF1xKOYTAqSaFR3T51vM/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.

A hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;

When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.

When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

A watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.

&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:

Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.

KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;when the agency receives reports of potential&nbsp;algae&nbsp;blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;

If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;along the shore may become seriously ill or die.

For information on blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.O-iii8EecI9RCmUQhjTnWcsWU8a48BBlP23Z7wAksSg/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.BaXTO6dRhb2dyo1a1gvSOAGz9mT9i-HnJQTvtXERzHk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.sdMj1mXAb7hEIHpl1c7_3nZsc3kUE4A6wmwHnx4s3Vk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">informative video</a>.

Kansas Department of Health and EnvironmentTOPEKA — The Kansas Department of Health and Environment and the Kansas Department of Wildlife and Parks have issued a public health advisory due to blue-green&nbsp;algae.A harmful algal bloom (HAB) may look like foam, scum or paint floating on the water and be colored blue, bright green, brown or red. Blooms can develop rapidly; if the water appears suspicious or there is decaying&nbsp;algae&nbsp;on the shore, avoid contact and keep pets away.These toxins can be absorbed by ingestion, inhalation of aerosols and even skin contact.Symptoms vary depending upon the type of exposure (e.g. direct contact, ingestion, inhalation) but can include rash, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, sore throat and headache.If you, or your pets, come into contact with algae&nbsp;rinse the area with clean, fresh water.Suspected HAB-related health incidents, whether human or animal, regardless of season, should be reported at&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.FHhBnBcSPYqvyz7qCawS37ShF1xKOYTAqSaFR3T51vM/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/1163</a>.<h2>Active Advisories</h2>Warning&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>King Lake, Lyon County</li><li>Marion Lake (Reservoir), Marion County</li><li>Rooks Co. SFL, Rooks County</li><li>Webster Lake, Rooks County</li>
 </ol>Watch&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Eagle Lake (Bel Aire), Sedgwick County (Added June 28)</li><li>Harvey County East Lake, Harvey County</li><li>Lake Shawnee, Shawnee County</li><li>Lovewell Lake, Jewell County</li><li>Woodland Park Pond (Mount Hope), Sedgwick County</li>
 </ol>A hazard status&nbsp;indicates that a harmful algal bloom is present, and extreme conditions exist.&nbsp;When a hazard is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ol>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>It is recommended that either a portion of the lake or the entire lake or zone, be closed to the public.</li><li>In some cases, the adjacent land should be closed as well. Actual setback distances will be determined on a site-specific basis, if necessary.</li><li>When partial closures (i.e., beach or cove) are issued, the remaining lake or zone area will carry a warning status.</li>
 </ol>A warning status&nbsp;indicates that conditions are unsafe for human and pet exposure. Contact with the waterbody should be avoided.When a warning is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ol>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Inhalation of spray or aerosols may be harmful.</li><li>Lake water is not safe to drink for pets or livestock.&nbsp;</li><li>Lake water, regardless of blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;status, should never be consumed by humans.&nbsp;</li><li>Water contact should be avoided.&nbsp;</li><li>Fish may be eaten if they are rinsed with clean water and only the fillet portion is consumed, while all other parts are discarded.&nbsp;</li><li>Do not allow pets to eat dried&nbsp;algae.&nbsp;</li><li>If lake water contacts skin, wash with clean water as soon as possible.&nbsp;</li><li>Avoid areas of visible&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation.&nbsp;</li>
 </ol>A watch status&nbsp;means that blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;have been detected and a harmful algal bloom is present or likely to develop. People are encouraged to avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and keep pets and livestock away from the water.&nbsp;When a watch is issued, KDHE recommends the following precautions be taken:<ol>
 <li>Signage should be posted at all public access locations.</li><li>Water may be unsafe for humans/animals.</li><li>Avoid areas of&nbsp;algae&nbsp;accumulation and do not let people/pets eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;or drink contaminated water.</li><li>Swimming, wading, skiing and jet skiing are discouraged near visible blooms.</li><li>Boating and fishing are safe. However, inhalation of the spray may affect some individuals. Avoid direct contact with water, and wash with clean water after any contact.</li><li>Clean fish thoroughly with potable water and eat fillet portion only.</li>
 </ol>Advisories are&nbsp;Lifted&nbsp;when cell densities and toxin concentrations dissipate to levels below the Watch thresholds.KDHE investigates publicly accessible bodies of water for blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;when the agency receives reports of potential&nbsp;algae&nbsp;blooms in Kansas lakes. Based on credible field observation and sampling results, KDHE reports on potentially harmful conditions.&nbsp;If you observe a scum or paint-like surface on the water, small floating blue-green clumps or filaments in the water, or if the water is an opaque green, avoid contact and keep pets away. These are indications that a harmful bloom may be present. Pet owners should be aware that animals that swim in or drink water affected by a harmful algal bloom or eat dried&nbsp;algae&nbsp;along the shore may become seriously ill or die.For information on blue-green&nbsp;algae&nbsp;and reporting potential harmful algal blooms, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.O-iii8EecI9RCmUQhjTnWcsWU8a48BBlP23Z7wAksSg/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">kdhe.ks.gov/HAB</a>&nbsp;and check out our&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.BaXTO6dRhb2dyo1a1gvSOAGz9mT9i-HnJQTvtXERzHk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">interactive story</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.sdMj1mXAb7hEIHpl1c7_3nZsc3kUE4A6wmwHnx4s3Vk/s/1305913623/br/244975152642-l">informative video</a>.

9 Kansas lakes included in KDHE blue-green algae advisory

Sheriff Eric Coffman was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s meeting at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on June 26. The Sheriff told club members that he worked at the Junction City Police Department for 11 years and 8 years at the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.

Sheriff Coffman also said that “there are 102 employees that work in various capacities at the Sheriff’s Office. Some are sworn officers, others work in the correction facility and still others work with the K-9 and Water Rescue Patrols.”

One of his concerns is the age of the facility and shortage of staff. “The department is currently short 17 employees.” Compensation needs to be increased for the workers to make it possible to hire quality employees and retain them. “There are currently 110 inmates in the jail each week”, he said.

Sheriff Coffman also stated that “There is a need for a new jail facility. Repairs to the existing facility would cost approximately 29 million dollars and would be a band-aid approach. Research is being done to compare the cost of repairing the jail to that of building a new one. Another concern is the cost of prescription medication for inmates. The Department is required to pay for the medication while the inmate is in jail. Some of the medications cost $2,000 per day.” These costs put a strain on the Department’s budget.

Improvements that have recently been made in the office include the addition of a secretary to do the paperwork and having deputies serve as School Resource Officers in USD 475 schools.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719608592871.jpeg" alt="Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Geary County Sheriff, Eric Coffman." />
 <figcaption>Pictured left to right are Nita Miller, JC Breakfast Optimist Club President and Geary County Sheriff, Eric Coffman.</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dr.Ferrell MillerJC Breakfast OptimistsSheriff Eric Coffman was the guest speaker at the JC Breakfast Optimist Club’s meeting at Jim Clark’s Chevrolet showroom on June 26. The Sheriff told club members that he worked at the Junction City Police Department for 11 years and 8 years at the Geary County Sheriff’s Office.Sheriff Coffman also said that “there are 102 employees that work in various capacities at the Sheriff’s Office. Some are sworn officers, others work in the correction facility and still others work with the K-9 and Water Rescue Patrols.”One of his concerns is the age of the facility and shortage of staff. “The department is currently short 17 employees.” Compensation needs to be increased for the workers to make it possible to hire quality employees and retain them. “There are currently 110 inmates in the jail each week”, he said.Sheriff Coffman also stated that “There is a need for a new jail facility. Repairs to the existing facility would cost approximately 29 million dollars and would be a band-aid approach. Research is being done to compare the cost of repairing the jail to that of building a new one. Another concern is the cost of prescription medication for inmates. The Department is required to pay for the medication while the inmate is in jail. Some of the medications cost $2,000 per day.” These costs put a strain on the Department’s budget.Improvements that have recently been made in the office include the addition of a secretary to do the paperwork and having deputies serve as School Resource Officers in USD 475 schools.

JC Breakfast Optimist Club Learned About  The Geary County Sheriff’s Office

Maj. Gen. Monte Rone assumed command of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Friday morning. Speaking on the Cavalry Parade Field to assembled troops and community members he made a commitment. "That I will do my part on this team to earn your trust through deeds and not words. "

Rone said he would lead with pride and passion. "I will care for our Soldiers, families and civilians and my expectation is that each of&nbsp; you will do the same." The commanding general added that he would also provide purpose, a sense of belonging and set conditions so leaders could provide a path of success for all.

Outgoing 1st Infantry Division commanding general Maj. Gen. John Myer III noted that he Soldiers on the Cavalry Parade Field represented the 107 years the Division has served in the Army. Meyer thanked the troops, NCO's, families and community members for their support.

A division pass in review followed by a historic cavalry charge from the Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard&nbsp; were also part of the ceremony.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719610026213.jpeg" alt="Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp; (Photos - Fort Riley )" />
 <figcaption>Maj. Gen. Monte Rone&nbsp; (Photos - Fort Riley )</figcaption>
 </figure>By Dewey TerrillJC PostMaj. Gen. Monte Rone assumed command of the 1st Infantry Division and Fort Riley Friday morning. Speaking on the Cavalry Parade Field to assembled troops and community members he made a commitment. "That I will do my part on this team to earn your trust through deeds and not words. "Rone said he would lead with pride and passion. "I will care for our Soldiers, families and civilians and my expectation is that each of&nbsp; you will do the same." The commanding general added that he would also provide purpose, a sense of belonging and set conditions so leaders could provide a path of success for all.Outgoing 1st Infantry Division commanding general Maj. Gen. John Myer III noted that he Soldiers on the Cavalry Parade Field represented the 107 years the Division has served in the Army. Meyer thanked the troops, NCO's, families and community members for their support.A division pass in review followed by a historic cavalry charge from the Commanding General's Mounted Color Guard&nbsp; were also part of the ceremony.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719610072367.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Change of Command at Fort Riley

KSU Division of Communications and Marketing

MANHATTAN — As fireworks light up the sky and people gather for barbecues, this can cause anxiety and danger for pets across the country. Pet owners should start making plans now to keep pets safe and comfortable during the Fourth of July, said Susan Nelson, clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>, a part of the College of Veterinary Medicine.

"It is best to speak to your veterinarian now to explore medication options for your pet if needed," Nelson said. "The majority of fireworks will be set off on July 4, a day your veterinarian's office might be closed. "It is important to keep pets on a leash if they need to go outside. Owners should consider having pets wear a collar with ID tags and microchipping their pet. This helps pets be traced to their owners in case they get lost. It is also important to make sure that contact information is up to date.

Having pets stay inside can keep them safe from the heat and from people who may try to harm them with fireworks. "Keeping pets in their crate or in a secure room can help some pets feel safe and less anxious," Nelson said. "Be sure to close the blinds or use heavy curtains to block out the flashes of light. Soothing music, turning on the TV or white noise machine may help block out the noise that comes with this holiday."

Nelson also suggests the following to help a pet remain calm this Fourth of July:• Try an anxiety wrap specially made for pets as it may help calm those with mild anxiety.• Using over-the-counter supplements made for anxious pets may benefit those with mild to moderate noise anxiety. Make sure to check with your vet that there are no unsafe interactions between these and any medications they may be taking.• Consider temporarily relocating your pet to a quieter friend or relative's house or kennel during this time.• Talk to your veterinarian about prescription anti-anxiety medications if your pet has a severe fear of loud noises. Several different medications are available to help treat anxiety due to loud noises. Have the medication ready for your pet to consume on the first day that fireworks are allowed to begin in your community.• Distract your pet with items such as food puzzles and/or treat-stuffed dog toys."Even if your pet is not bothered by the fireworks and noise, it is best to leave them at home when attending firework shows," Nelson said. "The crowds filled with strangers, combined with the noise and flashes can bring out unpredictable behaviors."

Noises from fireworks are not the only thing to be conscious of to keep your pet safe. "It is important to keep dangerous things away from your pet, the same you way you would with kids," Nelson said. These hazardous items include lighters, punks, matches, lighter fluid, glow jewelry, citronella candles/oils, insect coils/repellent and unlit and lit fireworks." Do not apply products on pets that are not labeled for safe use on them. While it might be tempting to use insect repellent on your pet, find some that are pet friendly. Repellent that contains DEET is toxic for pets. "Some foods, like chocolate, macadamia nuts, onions, grapes or raisins, coffee, salt and yeast-based bread dough are all potentially toxic for pets," Nelson said. "Pets often experience vomiting and/or diarrhea when given foods they do not regularly eat." When fatty foods are ingested, it can lead to life threatening pancreatitis. Corncobs, bones and wooden barbecue skewers can cause blockage of the intestinal tracts if swallowed. Keep any foods or candies sweetened with artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, out of reach due to toxicity in pets.

Make sure to keep any alcoholic beverages out of reach from pets as well.If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, call your veterinarian, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control">ASPCA Poison Control Center</a>&nbsp;at 888-426-4435 or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/">Pet Poison Helpline</a>&nbsp;at 855-764-7661 immediately for advice.

By Rylee CoyKSU Division of Communications and MarketingMANHATTAN — As fireworks light up the sky and people gather for barbecues, this can cause anxiety and danger for pets across the country. Pet owners should start making plans now to keep pets safe and comfortable during the Fourth of July, said Susan Nelson, clinical professor at the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ksvhc.org/">Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center</a>, a part of the College of Veterinary Medicine."It is best to speak to your veterinarian now to explore medication options for your pet if needed," Nelson said. "The majority of fireworks will be set off on July 4, a day your veterinarian's office might be closed. "It is important to keep pets on a leash if they need to go outside. Owners should consider having pets wear a collar with ID tags and microchipping their pet. This helps pets be traced to their owners in case they get lost. It is also important to make sure that contact information is up to date.Having pets stay inside can keep them safe from the heat and from people who may try to harm them with fireworks. "Keeping pets in their crate or in a secure room can help some pets feel safe and less anxious," Nelson said. "Be sure to close the blinds or use heavy curtains to block out the flashes of light. Soothing music, turning on the TV or white noise machine may help block out the noise that comes with this holiday."Nelson also suggests the following to help a pet remain calm this Fourth of July:• Try an anxiety wrap specially made for pets as it may help calm those with mild anxiety.• Using over-the-counter supplements made for anxious pets may benefit those with mild to moderate noise anxiety. Make sure to check with your vet that there are no unsafe interactions between these and any medications they may be taking.• Consider temporarily relocating your pet to a quieter friend or relative's house or kennel during this time.• Talk to your veterinarian about prescription anti-anxiety medications if your pet has a severe fear of loud noises. Several different medications are available to help treat anxiety due to loud noises. Have the medication ready for your pet to consume on the first day that fireworks are allowed to begin in your community.• Distract your pet with items such as food puzzles and/or treat-stuffed dog toys."Even if your pet is not bothered by the fireworks and noise, it is best to leave them at home when attending firework shows," Nelson said. "The crowds filled with strangers, combined with the noise and flashes can bring out unpredictable behaviors."Noises from fireworks are not the only thing to be conscious of to keep your pet safe. "It is important to keep dangerous things away from your pet, the same you way you would with kids," Nelson said. These hazardous items include lighters, punks, matches, lighter fluid, glow jewelry, citronella candles/oils, insect coils/repellent and unlit and lit fireworks." Do not apply products on pets that are not labeled for safe use on them. While it might be tempting to use insect repellent on your pet, find some that are pet friendly. Repellent that contains DEET is toxic for pets. "Some foods, like chocolate, macadamia nuts, onions, grapes or raisins, coffee, salt and yeast-based bread dough are all potentially toxic for pets," Nelson said. "Pets often experience vomiting and/or diarrhea when given foods they do not regularly eat." When fatty foods are ingested, it can lead to life threatening pancreatitis. Corncobs, bones and wooden barbecue skewers can cause blockage of the intestinal tracts if swallowed. Keep any foods or candies sweetened with artificial sweeteners, such as xylitol, out of reach due to toxicity in pets.Make sure to keep any alcoholic beverages out of reach from pets as well.If you suspect your pet has ingested something toxic, call your veterinarian, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.aspca.org/pet-care/animal-poison-control">ASPCA Poison Control Center</a>&nbsp;at 888-426-4435 or the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.petpoisonhelpline.com/">Pet Poison Helpline</a>&nbsp;at 855-764-7661 immediately for advice.

K-State veterinarian shares tips to keep your dogs and cats safe this Fourth of July

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to an elevator.&nbsp;

Just after 4:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal destruction of property in the 1300 block of Laramie Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

The City of Manhattan discovered footage of a man tampering with the elevator. Total loss associated with this report is $2,600. 

Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged criminal damage to an elevator.&nbsp;Just after 4:30p.m. Thursday, officers filed a report of criminal destruction of property in the 1300 block of Laramie Street, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.The City of Manhattan discovered footage of a man tampering with the elevator. Total loss associated with this report is $2,600. Anyone with information can contact&nbsp;<a href="https://www.rileycountypolice.org/287/Crime-Stoppers">Crime Stoppers</a>. Using Crime Stoppers allows you to remain anonymous and could qualify you for a cash reward of up to $1,000.

RCPD investigating alleged criminal damage to elevator

The Junction City Police Department has issued information pertaining to the discharge of fireworks on private property.

8 AM to 10 PM:-Thursday, June 27th-Sunday, June 30th-Monday, July 1st-Tuesday, July 2nd- Wednesday, July 3rd 

8 AM to 12 AM (Midnight):-Friday, June 28th-Saturday, June 29th-Thursday, July 4th-Friday, July 5th&nbsp;&nbsp;

-Always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.

-Never allow young children to handle fireworks.

-Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.

The Junction City Police Department has issued information pertaining to the discharge of fireworks on private property.Dates &amp; Times:8 AM to 10 PM:-Thursday, June 27th-Sunday, June 30th-Monday, July 1st-Tuesday, July 2nd- Wednesday, July 3rd 8 AM to 12 AM (Midnight):-Friday, June 28th-Saturday, June 29th-Thursday, July 4th-Friday, July 5th&nbsp;&nbsp;Safety Tips:-Always have a bucket of water or a hose nearby.-Never allow young children to handle fireworks.-Light fireworks one at a time and move back quickly.<figure>
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JCPD lists fireworks times and safety tips

By AMELIA SCHATZ Kansas Wheat

This Hard White Wheat Special Edition of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Hard white (HW) winter wheat varieties continue to be popular among some western Kansas farmers for their high yields, disease resistance and quality. Kansas Wheat continues to work with the grain handling industry and Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) to revise the grain standards to facilitate the movement of hard white wheat in domestic and international markets and lessen the burden on grain handlers.&nbsp;

Hard white wheat had been growing in export demand, primarily to Nigeria out of the Texas Gulf, but the past several years of drought-stricken production shortfalls have impacted that business for Kansas farmers.

Eric Sperber from Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who has been trading hard white wheat since the late 1990s, said, “We’ve never matched up demand with supply. Either there’s more demand and not enough supply, or more supply and not enough demand.” He said, “Unless we can get Nigeria back, it’s hard to market hard white wheat.”

Although Sperber anticipates less than 10 percent of their receipts to be hard white wheat this year, down from years past, he’s pleased with the excellent quality and quantity of wheat in the area.&nbsp;

Wheat coming into his location, both hard red and hard white, have test weights of 60+ pounds per bushel, protein averaging about 12 percent, and variable yields that will likely end up above average overall. Most farmers in his draw area of Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties have been “pleasantly surprised” by this year’s wheat harvest.

Hard white wheat makes up 16.3 percent of planted acres in west central and southwest Kansas. Joe is the top seeded hard white wheat variety, making up 8.4 percent of planted acres in southwest Kansas and 7.9 percent in west central Kansas. Overall, hard white wheat was seeded on 4.3 percent of Kansas’ 7.7 million acres, accounting for&nbsp;331,100&nbsp;acres seeded to hard white wheat in the fall of 2023. KS Big Bow, being the most recent HW release and projecting to be a Joe replacement with higher yield potential, better disease package and milling and baking quality.

Overall, the quality of this year’s hard white wheat crop is excellent, in line with the quality of this year’s hard red winter wheat crop.

The Millershaskis from Lakin in Kearny County are growing both Joe and KS Big Bow, hard white wheats from the Kansas Wheat Alliance, this year.

Gary Millershaski reports that their “test weights have been unbelievable, 60 to 65 pounds per bushel.” They have very good sized berries and clean samples.

They have not tested for protein because the elevators in the area do not pay for protein.

In February, the crop looked fantastic. Kyler Millershaski said he was excited to topdress because it was looking so good.

They got a really good stand on all their acres last fall, and even had snow cover over the winter.&nbsp;

But, then the spigot turned off and they received no more moisture until late May.

“I had higher hopes,” Kyler said. "It’s disappointing.”

Even with the lack of moisture in the spring, their farm will average approximately 28 bushels per acre, down from an average in the mid-40s.

They received a major hailstorm, which resulted in one field being a total loss and a few others with yields of only 10 to 20 bushels per acre.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/6/1719550904158.png" alt="HW Special Edition-2024" />
 <figcaption>HW Special Edition-2024</figcaption>
 </figure>By AMELIA SCHATZ Kansas WheatThis Hard White Wheat Special Edition of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Hard white (HW) winter wheat varieties continue to be popular among some western Kansas farmers for their high yields, disease resistance and quality. Kansas Wheat continues to work with the grain handling industry and Federal Grain Inspection Service (FGIS) to revise the grain standards to facilitate the movement of hard white wheat in domestic and international markets and lessen the burden on grain handlers.&nbsp;Hard white wheat had been growing in export demand, primarily to Nigeria out of the Texas Gulf, but the past several years of drought-stricken production shortfalls have impacted that business for Kansas farmers.Eric Sperber from Cornerstone Ag in Colby, who has been trading hard white wheat since the late 1990s, said, “We’ve never matched up demand with supply. Either there’s more demand and not enough supply, or more supply and not enough demand.” He said, “Unless we can get Nigeria back, it’s hard to market hard white wheat.”Although Sperber anticipates less than 10 percent of their receipts to be hard white wheat this year, down from years past, he’s pleased with the excellent quality and quantity of wheat in the area.&nbsp;Wheat coming into his location, both hard red and hard white, have test weights of 60+ pounds per bushel, protein averaging about 12 percent, and variable yields that will likely end up above average overall. Most farmers in his draw area of Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties have been “pleasantly surprised” by this year’s wheat harvest.Hard white wheat makes up 16.3 percent of planted acres in west central and southwest Kansas. Joe is the top seeded hard white wheat variety, making up 8.4 percent of planted acres in southwest Kansas and 7.9 percent in west central Kansas. Overall, hard white wheat was seeded on 4.3 percent of Kansas’ 7.7 million acres, accounting for&nbsp;331,100&nbsp;acres seeded to hard white wheat in the fall of 2023. KS Big Bow, being the most recent HW release and projecting to be a Joe replacement with higher yield potential, better disease package and milling and baking quality.Overall, the quality of this year’s hard white wheat crop is excellent, in line with the quality of this year’s hard red winter wheat crop.The Millershaskis from Lakin in Kearny County are growing both Joe and KS Big Bow, hard white wheats from the Kansas Wheat Alliance, this year.Gary Millershaski reports that their “test weights have been unbelievable, 60 to 65 pounds per bushel.” They have very good sized berries and clean samples.They have not tested for protein because the elevators in the area do not pay for protein.In February, the crop looked fantastic. Kyler Millershaski said he was excited to topdress because it was looking so good.They got a really good stand on all their acres last fall, and even had snow cover over the winter.&nbsp;But, then the spigot turned off and they received no more moisture until late May.“I had higher hopes,” Kyler said. "It’s disappointing.”Even with the lack of moisture in the spring, their farm will average approximately 28 bushels per acre, down from an average in the mid-40s.They received a major hailstorm, which resulted in one field being a total loss and a few others with yields of only 10 to 20 bushels per acre.They haven’t had any issues with wheat streak mosaic virus, even though some of their neighbors have it.“Joe has been such a good staple for this area,” Gary said, referencing its wheat streak resistance.Like Millershaskis’ operation, the Suppes’ in Lane County see farming as a family affair.Ron, his son Shane, nephew Jace, and a skilled group of hired hands started cutting their hard white winter wheat crop on June 18. With dry weather, they expect to finish in the next seven days. They were using stripper headers, which maximize the use of straw left behind for moisture conservation and weed management.This year they planted Joe and KS Big Bow and have been pleasantly surprised by their resilience to the spotty weather they have had. They gave some credit to timely rains during the grain filling period.&nbsp;The family was happy to report an average of 50 bushels per acre and proteins at 12.5 percent. Their wheat crop this year faced some pressure from wheat streak mosaic virus which put a damper on yields, but was not a huge factor due to the advancements made by wheat research.“It's the genetics shining through,” said Jace as he reflected on this season’s challenges.Stewart Whitham, who farms near Leoti, in Wichita County said there was a tremendous amount of variability potential in this crop, just a few weeks before getting started cutting.&nbsp;Over the course of the weeks leading up to harvest, grain filling weather was ideal, which allowed for his crop to be “better than expected.”Whitham’s crop of KS Big Bow had average test weights of 62.7 pounds per bushel, with protein averaging 13.2 percent.&nbsp;U.S. Wheat Associates produces an annual Crop Quality Report that includes grade, flour and end-product data for all six U.S. wheat classes. The 2024 Annual Wheat Quality Report will be available at uswheat.org.The 2024 Harvest Report is brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council. To follow along with harvest updates on Twitter, use #wheatharvest24. Tag us at @kansaswheat on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to share your harvest story and photos.

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