RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.

According to the Riley County Police department activity report Laura Zill, 61, Manhattan, failed to yield the right of way to Glady Schroeder, 84, Manhattan&nbsp;at the corner of Claflin Road and Wreath Avenue in Manhattan.

EMS transported Zill to the Via Christi&nbsp; for treatment of non life-threatening injuries. Zill was issued a citation for failure to yield the right of way.

The RCPD did not released details on the vehicles the women were driving, their direction of travel and whether they were properly restrained at the time of the accident.

RILEY COUNTY—One person was injured in an accident just after 11:30a.m. Tuesday in Riley County.According to the Riley County Police department activity report Laura Zill, 61, Manhattan, failed to yield the right of way to Glady Schroeder, 84, Manhattan&nbsp;at the corner of Claflin Road and Wreath Avenue in Manhattan.EMS transported Zill to the Via Christi&nbsp; for treatment of non life-threatening injuries. Zill was issued a citation for failure to yield the right of way.The RCPD did not released details on the vehicles the women were driving, their direction of travel and whether they were properly restrained at the time of the accident.

Manhattan woman injured after 2-vehicle crash

WASHINGTON D.C. — The U. S. Postal Service filed notice in April with the Postal Regulatory Commission of mailing services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents.

The proposed adjustments, approved by the governors of the Postal Service, would raise mailing services product prices approximately 7.8 percent. If favorably reviewed by the commission, the price changes would include:

U.S. Postal Service Recommends New Prices for July 2024

Letters (1 oz.) will go from 68 cents to 73 cents.

Letters (metered 1 oz.) will go from 64 cents to 69 cents.

Domestic Postcards will go from 53 cents to 56 cents.&nbsp;

International Postcards will go from $1.55 to $1.65.&nbsp;

International Letter (1 oz.) will go from $1.55 to $1.65.&nbsp;

The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters increases from 24 cents to 28 cents.

The Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for Special Services products, including Certified Mail and money order fees. Notably, there will be no price increase for Post Office Box rental fees, and the Postal Service will apply a price reduction of 10 percent for postal insurance when mailing an item.

As changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace continue, these price adjustments are needed to achieve the financial stability sought by the organization’s&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/?_gl=1*63lmng*_ga*MTU2OTA3OTA5MC4xNjU2NTIwNTUx*_ga_3NXP3C8S9V*MTY2NDk4ODA1NS40NDIuMS4xNjY0OTg4MDkyLjAuMC4w">Delivering for America</a>&nbsp;10-year plan. USPS prices remain among the most affordable in the world.

The complete Postal Service price filing, with prices for all products, can be found on the commission’s website under the&nbsp;<a href="https://prc.arkcase.com/portal/docket-search/daily-listings" target="_blank">Daily Listings section</a>.&nbsp;The Mailing Services filing is Docket No. R2024-2. The price tables are also available on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at&nbsp;<a href="https://pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index" target="_blank">pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index</a>.

WASHINGTON D.C. — The U. S. Postal Service filed notice in April with the Postal Regulatory Commission of mailing services price changes to take effect July 14, 2024. The new rates include a 5-cent increase in the price of a First-Class Mail Forever stamp from 68 cents to 73 cents.The proposed adjustments, approved by the governors of the Postal Service, would raise mailing services product prices approximately 7.8 percent. If favorably reviewed by the commission, the price changes would include:U.S. Postal Service Recommends New Prices for July 2024Letters (1 oz.) will go from 68 cents to 73 cents.Letters (metered 1 oz.) will go from 64 cents to 69 cents.Domestic Postcards will go from 53 cents to 56 cents.&nbsp;International Postcards will go from $1.55 to $1.65.&nbsp;International Letter (1 oz.) will go from $1.55 to $1.65.&nbsp;The additional-ounce price for single-piece letters increases from 24 cents to 28 cents.The Postal Service is also seeking price adjustments for Special Services products, including Certified Mail and money order fees. Notably, there will be no price increase for Post Office Box rental fees, and the Postal Service will apply a price reduction of 10 percent for postal insurance when mailing an item.As changes in the mailing and shipping marketplace continue, these price adjustments are needed to achieve the financial stability sought by the organization’s&nbsp;<a href="https://about.usps.com/what/strategic-plans/delivering-for-america/?_gl=1*63lmng*_ga*MTU2OTA3OTA5MC4xNjU2NTIwNTUx*_ga_3NXP3C8S9V*MTY2NDk4ODA1NS40NDIuMS4xNjY0OTg4MDkyLjAuMC4w">Delivering for America</a>&nbsp;10-year plan. USPS prices remain among the most affordable in the world.The complete Postal Service price filing, with prices for all products, can be found on the commission’s website under the&nbsp;<a href="https://prc.arkcase.com/portal/docket-search/daily-listings" target="_blank">Daily Listings section</a>.&nbsp;The Mailing Services filing is Docket No. R2024-2. The price tables are also available on the Postal Service’s Postal Explorer website at&nbsp;<a href="https://pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index" target="_blank">pe.usps.com/PriceChange/Index</a>.

Price of stamps going up again this month

This is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

Summer rains that leave behind humid air are keeping farmers out of the fields until late in the day, but producers are just glad to be able to climb in the cab and cut some wheat this year. After a multi-year drought, the showers and sprinkles are welcome, even if they delay the final stretch of the 2024 Kansas wheat harvest.&nbsp;

“Nuisance sprinkles” on Tuesday, July 2, didn’t amount to enough to benefit fall crops, but when coupled with high humidity, kept combines from running in Rooks and Graham counties, where Mike McClellan has just one day left of cutting his hard red winter wheat.&nbsp;

Fall moisture was limited to just a couple of fields and some of his wheat didn’t emerge until spring - making the wheat look very patchy coming out of dormancy. With fields spread out over two counties, some of his fields would pick up a rain, but two miles away, the field wouldn’t receive anything. McClellan remarked he has never seen such a “weather variable year.”

During spring grainfill, his area had mostly decent cool temperatures and moisture, which benefitted the wheat. By mid-June, the temperature got hot.&nbsp;

Harvest started on June 22. Test weights started at 60 pounds per bushel, but have decreased with recent showers. Protein is averaging 12 percent and higher with limited testing. Yields have ranged from 20 to 50 bushels per acre but the average hits in the low to mid 30s. While this is a below-average year of yields, McClellan’s harvest is still better than last year, when he abandoned all of his wheat due to drought.&nbsp;

“I’m tickled to be able to run the combines this year,” he said. “The wheat is surprisingly good for how it looked at the first of March. There was some I didn’t think I’d cut, but I have been able to.”

The area is now 75 percent complete with harvest. When those final few acres are finished, McClellan will start harvesting 500 acres of spring wheat.&nbsp;

Overnight showers and high humidity have kept farmers out of the fields until late over the last couple of days in northwest Kansas, according to Eric Sperber with Cornerstone Ag in Colby. Their draw area includes Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties. Harvest in the area began on June 21 but didn’t really pick up until June 25. With custom harvest crews arriving mid-last week and cutting through the weekend, harvest pace is picking up as the weather allows.&nbsp;

Sperber noted Cornerstone Ag expects overall receipts to be up from last year at about average. Yields are highly variable, dependent on whether or not they had moisture at drilling last fall, ranging from 20 bushels per acre up to nearly 100 bushels per acre. Average yields look to be better than average overall.&nbsp;

Quality is excellent, with test weights over 60 pounds per bushel and proteins averaging about 12.5 percent.&nbsp;

“This is the best quality we’ve had for several years,” Sperber said.&nbsp;

In Clay County in northeast Kansas, Richard Cott remarked that “my wife Jodi and I will probably never see a crop this good again in our lifetime.” Having three generations help out with harvest - including his wife, son Kyle and granddaughter - makes this year’s harvest even more memorable.&nbsp;

Harvest started the week of June 12 and wrapped up on June 28. The Cotts’ farm seemed to catch rain at the perfect times, especially a good rain in October that established a good stand going into winter. Even with a super dry spring, Kyle described their area like a small vein that followed their fields with rain that allowed the wheat crop to prosper. They applied fungicide and did not see any headscab or rust in any of their fields.&nbsp;

Yields are well above average with proteins in the 11 and 12 percent range. Even with recent rains, test weights have held steady from 59 to 63 pounds per bushel. Overall, the family has been feeling “blessed, to say the least” about this year’s harvest.&nbsp;

Their best wheat came from a field planted behind failed corn and wheat following soybeans also came in above average. The early harvest will help them get their double-cropped corn or soybeans in the ground sooner.&nbsp;

“It’s the best wheat I’ve ever seen,” Kyle said. “We’ve had a very blessed wheat harvest this year. It was actually fun cutting wheat this year. Compared to the past two years, this has been amazing.”&nbsp;

The Kansas Wheat crew will take a break from harvest reporting for the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, July 8 - and put on good fireworks show for the farmers who will continue to work through the festivities!&nbsp;

The 2024 Harvest Reports are 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, use #<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23wheatharvest24&amp;src=typed_query&amp;f=live">wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansaswheat">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kswheat">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/KansasWheat">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719967189163.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>JULIA DEBES&nbsp; Kansas WheatThis is day 11 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.Summer rains that leave behind humid air are keeping farmers out of the fields until late in the day, but producers are just glad to be able to climb in the cab and cut some wheat this year. After a multi-year drought, the showers and sprinkles are welcome, even if they delay the final stretch of the 2024 Kansas wheat harvest.&nbsp;“Nuisance sprinkles” on Tuesday, July 2, didn’t amount to enough to benefit fall crops, but when coupled with high humidity, kept combines from running in Rooks and Graham counties, where Mike McClellan has just one day left of cutting his hard red winter wheat.&nbsp;Fall moisture was limited to just a couple of fields and some of his wheat didn’t emerge until spring - making the wheat look very patchy coming out of dormancy. With fields spread out over two counties, some of his fields would pick up a rain, but two miles away, the field wouldn’t receive anything. McClellan remarked he has never seen such a “weather variable year.”During spring grainfill, his area had mostly decent cool temperatures and moisture, which benefitted the wheat. By mid-June, the temperature got hot.&nbsp;Harvest started on June 22. Test weights started at 60 pounds per bushel, but have decreased with recent showers. Protein is averaging 12 percent and higher with limited testing. Yields have ranged from 20 to 50 bushels per acre but the average hits in the low to mid 30s. While this is a below-average year of yields, McClellan’s harvest is still better than last year, when he abandoned all of his wheat due to drought.&nbsp;“I’m tickled to be able to run the combines this year,” he said. “The wheat is surprisingly good for how it looked at the first of March. There was some I didn’t think I’d cut, but I have been able to.”The area is now 75 percent complete with harvest. When those final few acres are finished, McClellan will start harvesting 500 acres of spring wheat.&nbsp;Overnight showers and high humidity have kept farmers out of the fields until late over the last couple of days in northwest Kansas, according to Eric Sperber with Cornerstone Ag in Colby. Their draw area includes Rawlins, Thomas, Sheridan and Logan counties. Harvest in the area began on June 21 but didn’t really pick up until June 25. With custom harvest crews arriving mid-last week and cutting through the weekend, harvest pace is picking up as the weather allows.&nbsp;Sperber noted Cornerstone Ag expects overall receipts to be up from last year at about average. Yields are highly variable, dependent on whether or not they had moisture at drilling last fall, ranging from 20 bushels per acre up to nearly 100 bushels per acre. Average yields look to be better than average overall.&nbsp;Quality is excellent, with test weights over 60 pounds per bushel and proteins averaging about 12.5 percent.&nbsp;“This is the best quality we’ve had for several years,” Sperber said.&nbsp;In Clay County in northeast Kansas, Richard Cott remarked that “my wife Jodi and I will probably never see a crop this good again in our lifetime.” Having three generations help out with harvest - including his wife, son Kyle and granddaughter - makes this year’s harvest even more memorable.&nbsp;Harvest started the week of June 12 and wrapped up on June 28. The Cotts’ farm seemed to catch rain at the perfect times, especially a good rain in October that established a good stand going into winter. Even with a super dry spring, Kyle described their area like a small vein that followed their fields with rain that allowed the wheat crop to prosper. They applied fungicide and did not see any headscab or rust in any of their fields.&nbsp;Yields are well above average with proteins in the 11 and 12 percent range. Even with recent rains, test weights have held steady from 59 to 63 pounds per bushel. Overall, the family has been feeling “blessed, to say the least” about this year’s harvest.&nbsp;Their best wheat came from a field planted behind failed corn and wheat following soybeans also came in above average. The early harvest will help them get their double-cropped corn or soybeans in the ground sooner.&nbsp;“It’s the best wheat I’ve ever seen,” Kyle said. “We’ve had a very blessed wheat harvest this year. It was actually fun cutting wheat this year. Compared to the past two years, this has been amazing.”&nbsp;The Kansas Wheat crew will take a break from harvest reporting for the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Monday, July 8 - and put on good fireworks show for the farmers who will continue to work through the festivities!&nbsp;The 2024 Harvest Reports are 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, use #<a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23wheatharvest24&amp;src=typed_query&amp;f=live">wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media. Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/kansaswheat">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/kswheat">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/KansasWheat">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 11, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report 2024

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;

CHASE RYAN SMITH, 32, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for misdemeanor case; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $3,000

DYLAN CODY SMITH, 33, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Bond $6,000

JACOB MICHEL SHIPP, 33, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $500

DEBORAH LYNNE COBLER, 35, Manhattan, Failure to appear;&nbsp;

LEONADRIN MAURICE SANDERS, 51, Topeka, Theft by deception; Value less than $1,500; Making false information; Bond $3,000

ANISSA MARIE MILLER, 51, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $2,500

BRITTNEE NICOLE ARMSTRONG, 31, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $2,500

DEVON ALEXIS ROMERO, 20, Clay Center, Failure to appear; Arrested and released by Clay County Sheriff's Office on 6/18/2024

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;CHASE RYAN SMITH, 32, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value &lt; $1000; Interference with LEO; knowingly flee by means other than motor vehicle for misdemeanor case; Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $3,000DYLAN CODY SMITH, 33, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing rude physical contact w/family member or dating relationship; Bond $6,000JACOB MICHEL SHIPP, 33, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $500DEBORAH LYNNE COBLER, 35, Manhattan, Failure to appear;&nbsp;LEONADRIN MAURICE SANDERS, 51, Topeka, Theft by deception; Value less than $1,500; Making false information; Bond $3,000ANISSA MARIE MILLER, 51, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $2,500BRITTNEE NICOLE ARMSTRONG, 31, Manhattan, Probation Violation; Bond $2,500DEVON ALEXIS ROMERO, 20, Clay Center, Failure to appear; Arrested and released by Clay County Sheriff's Office on 6/18/2024

Riley County Arrest Report July 2

By BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

MANHATTAN - On Monday morning, Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce, David Toland, was joined by leaders from across the state of Kansas to unveil the '<a href="https://lovekansas.com/">Love, Kansas</a>' campaign.

'Love, Kansas' is intended to boost Kansas' population and workforce by inviting past Kansas residents to return to the Sunflower State for work and residency.

The crowd, from across Kansas, was hyped up by Wyatt Thompson, voice of the K-State Wildcats, who served as emcee during the event.

"Today we are launching a new campaign that is going to bring these people home to Kansas by helping them rediscover why this state is the best place to call home," Thompson said.

Lt. Gov. Toland shared his experience of returning to Kansas to live and work by sharing an inspiring phone call from a family friend during the campaign launch at the Flint Hills Discovery Center.

"I am a 1995 graduate of Iola High School in Allen County. I have two degrees from KU, I married a girl at KU who is from Pittsburg and as soon as we finished graduate school, we moved out of the state," Toland said. "We went to the East Coast and we were there for the better part of a decade."

After the birth of their daughter, Caroline, Toland said, he and his wife decided to come back to Kansas.

"Caroline was learning to walk in our 16-foot wide row house, when one night, I got a phone call from somebody back in Iola, a friend who said, 'I'm sure you've never considered this. It's kind of a crazy idea. You'd have to move.' and  he said, 'Well, I wonder if you would ever consider coming back to Kansas, and specifically to Iola.'"

As a seventh-generation Kansan, Toland said he felt Kansas has always been in his heart, however, he didn't always think of it as a place of opportunity.

"It wasn't until that phone call that it clicked and I realized that we should be back home. We should be building our life for our daughter back in Kansas," Toland said. "And that's just what we did. It's been 16 years, and that was the best decision we've ever made."

The goal of 'Love, Kansas' is to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family, emphasizing the term, 'boomerang'&nbsp; - those individuals who have previously lived in Kansas, who are returning.

This locally driven campaign will target key markets in the U.S., including digital and social media platforms. Love Kansas will focus on the abundant job opportunities across the state, the high quality of life, education system and affordable communities.

"It's simple: we need more humans in Kansas to keep up with the phenomenal economic growth our state is experiencing," Lt. Gov. Toland said. "The best way to do that is to first approach Kansans who left the state for economic opportunities elsewhere and invite them to build a life in a place they know and have connections to, whether in their hometown or elsewhere in the state. With the Love, Kansas campaign, we aren't just extending an invitation to those who once called Kansas home to come back--we re also inviting families from around the country to build their lives in the Sunflower State."

As part of the launch, Toland announced the first 50 communities to partner with the 'Love Kansas' initiative will be eligible to receive a $5,000 grant to assist with attracting new residents to their community.&nbsp;

Nineteen pilot communities and seven universities have joined the initiative and are planning events following the campaign theme.

Use of influencer and journalist engagement and targeted in-person events as ways for the communities to reach out to potential boomerangs.

A primary goal for the campaign is for communities across the state to do direct outreach to past residents they have a personal connection with, inviting them to return home.

"The collaboration already on display between so many partners underscores the enthusiasm for this campaign," Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. "There are so many amazing things happening in Kansas right now; Love, Kansas gives us the chance to let people throughout the country know about them."

To close the launch, Toland invited all Kansans to call a friend or family member, making a pitch to get them return to the state they once called home.

"The most important thing for you to say might just be, 'Hey, there's good things happening in town and we miss you,'" Toland said. "We want you to come home. We want you to love Kansas. That's what's most important. Make that call. Send that text. Get out there and together we're gonna change Kansas."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864760130.jpeg" alt="Volunteers dump balloons and empty letters on attendees of the kick off event for the Love Kansas campaign that aims to bring Kansans back to the state who have moved away, on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Volunteers dump balloons and empty letters on attendees of the kick off event for the Love Kansas campaign that aims to bring Kansans back to the state who have moved away, on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Monday morning, Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce, David Toland, was joined by leaders from across the state of Kansas to unveil the '<a href="https://lovekansas.com/">Love, Kansas</a>' campaign.'Love, Kansas' is intended to boost Kansas' population and workforce by inviting past Kansas residents to return to the Sunflower State for work and residency.The crowd, from across Kansas, was hyped up by Wyatt Thompson, voice of the K-State Wildcats, who served as emcee during the event.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864954195.jpeg" alt="Wyatt Thompson, K-State Sports Voice of the Wildcats introduces the kick off event for the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Wyatt Thompson, K-State Sports Voice of the Wildcats introduces the kick off event for the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Today we are launching a new campaign that is going to bring these people home to Kansas by helping them rediscover why this state is the best place to call home," Thompson said.Lt. Gov. Toland shared his experience of returning to Kansas to live and work by sharing an inspiring phone call from a family friend during the campaign launch at the Flint Hills Discovery Center."I am a 1995 graduate of Iola High School in Allen County. I have two degrees from KU, I married a girl at KU who is from Pittsburg and as soon as we finished graduate school, we moved out of the state," Toland said. "We went to the East Coast and we were there for the better part of a decade."After the birth of their daughter, Caroline, Toland said, he and his wife decided to come back to Kansas.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719864857581.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor/Secretary of Commerce&nbsp;David Toland addresses the room of attendees to kick off the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor/Secretary of Commerce&nbsp;David Toland addresses the room of attendees to kick off the new Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>"Caroline was learning to walk in our 16-foot wide row house, when one night, I got a phone call from somebody back in Iola, a friend who said, 'I'm sure you've never considered this. It's kind of a crazy idea. You'd have to move.' and he said, 'Well, I wonder if you would ever consider coming back to Kansas, and specifically to Iola.'"As a seventh-generation Kansan, Toland said he felt Kansas has always been in his heart, however, he didn't always think of it as a place of opportunity."It wasn't until that phone call that it clicked and I realized that we should be back home. We should be building our life for our daughter back in Kansas," Toland said. "And that's just what we did. It's been 16 years, and that was the best decision we've ever made."<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mPPk35Ld8hQ?si=720o5Gjt_8FiChgE" 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>The goal of 'Love, Kansas' is to highlight Kansas as an exceptional place to live, work, and raise a family, emphasizing the term, 'boomerang'&nbsp; - those individuals who have previously lived in Kansas, who are returning.This locally driven campaign will target key markets in the U.S., including digital and social media platforms. Love Kansas will focus on the abundant job opportunities across the state, the high quality of life, education system and affordable communities.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719862504244.png" alt="Kansas by the numbers.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Kansas Department of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Kansas by the numbers.&nbsp;Image Courtesy Kansas Department of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>"It's simple: we need more humans in Kansas to keep up with the phenomenal economic growth our state is experiencing," Lt. Gov. Toland said. "The best way to do that is to first approach Kansans who left the state for economic opportunities elsewhere and invite them to build a life in a place they know and have connections to, whether in their hometown or elsewhere in the state. With the Love, Kansas campaign, we aren't just extending an invitation to those who once called Kansas home to come back--we re also inviting families from around the country to build their lives in the Sunflower State."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865112662.jpeg" alt="Representatives from rural pilot communities for the Love Kansas campaign cheer as Wyatt Thomspon, Voice of the K-State Wildcats, announces the name of their counties during the kick off event for Love Kansas on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Representatives from rural pilot communities for the Love Kansas campaign cheer as Wyatt Thomspon, Voice of the K-State Wildcats, announces the name of their counties during the kick off event for Love Kansas on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>As part of the launch, Toland announced the first 50 communities to partner with the 'Love Kansas' initiative will be eligible to receive a $5,000 grant to assist with attracting new residents to their community.&nbsp;Nineteen pilot communities and seven universities have joined the initiative and are planning events following the campaign theme.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865031911.jpeg" alt="Mascots from the pilot schools for Love Kansas dance outside the Flint Hills Discover Center with the Topeka High School Drumline on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Mascots from the pilot schools for Love Kansas dance outside the Flint Hills Discover Center with the Topeka High School Drumline on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>Use of influencer and journalist engagement and targeted in-person events as ways for the communities to reach out to potential boomerangs.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719865154626.jpeg" alt="Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland inserts the first letter to kick off the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland inserts the first letter to kick off the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>A primary goal for the campaign is for communities across the state to do direct outreach to past residents they have a personal connection with, inviting them to return home."The collaboration already on display between so many partners underscores the enthusiasm for this campaign," Kansas Tourism Director Bridgette Jobe said. "There are so many amazing things happening in Kansas right now; Love, Kansas gives us the chance to let people throughout the country know about them."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719866665325.jpeg" alt="Kansas State University mascot Willie the Wildcat encourages the crowd to yell, "K-S-U!" during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier" />
 <figcaption>Kansas State University mascot Willie the Wildcat encourages the crowd to yell, "K-S-U!" during the kickoff event for the Love Kansas campaign on Monday, July 1, at the Flint Hills Discover Center in Manhattan, Kan. Photo by Olivia Bergmeier</figcaption>
 </figure>To close the launch, Toland invited all Kansans to call a friend or family member, making a pitch to get them return to the state they once called home."The most important thing for you to say might just be, 'Hey, there's good things happening in town and we miss you,'" Toland said. "We want you to come home. We want you to love Kansas. That's what's most important. Make that call. Send that text. Get out there and together we're gonna change Kansas."

Love Kansas campaign aims to draw past residents back to the Sunflower State

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson at an apartment in Manhattan.

Just before 7a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of arson in the 2500 block of Stagg Hill Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Russ Briggs, who owns the apartment complex property, reported apartment #5 sustained fire damage of an unknown origin.

Total loss associated with this report is approximately $50,000. 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719841906255.jpeg" alt="Photo Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating alleged arson at an apartment in Manhattan.Just before 7a.m. Monday, officers filed a report of arson in the 2500 block of Stagg Hill Road, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Russ Briggs, who owns the apartment complex property, reported apartment #5 sustained fire damage of an unknown origin.Total loss associated with this report is approximately $50,000. 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: Arson alleged in apartment fire in Manhattan

&nbsp; By Julia Debes, Kansas WheatKansas Wheat

This is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.

As the calendar flips over to July, the combines keep rolling across western Kansas, albeit getting a late start on Monday due to lingering moisture from rain over the weekend. Better than expected final yields can mean of one of two things to western producers — either that they are actually cutting fields they expected to zero out due to drought or they are seeing yields above last year or the county average in fields that caught spotty rains or winter snows. While yields are highly variable, test weights, protein and optimism remain strong.&nbsp;

Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 80 percent complete, well ahead of 39 percent complete last year and 49 percent on average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 30, 2024.

Wheat harvest is nearly complete in Ness County, according to Gary Gantz, president of D.E. Bondurant Grain Co. Inc.in Ness City. The Gantz family has operated the last remaining private grain elevator in Kansas for nearly four generations and reported this year’s wheat crop is nearly double what they took in last year.&nbsp;

Great stands going into winter had area farmers feeling optimistic for a good crop, but a lack of moisture over the winter and into the spring put a damper on final results. Still, Gantz said most folks are “happy with the way things have shaken out” with average yields at about 30 bushels per acre, adequate test weights from 57 to 60 pounds per bushel and strong average protein at 12 percent. Standout varieties for the year include KS Western Star and KS Hamilton.&nbsp;

This year’s wheat crop is also performing better than expected in far western Kansas, according to Clay Schemm, who farms with his parents in Wallace, Logan and Greeley counties.&nbsp;

“I would not say it’s a great year, by any means, but definitely above what we had anticipated. We anticipated a pretty rough year,” he said. “I’d say we’re looking at an average to maybe slightly below average year on the wheat yield.”

Harvest started in the area on June 20. With four or five days left, showers overnight on Sunday, June 30, meant combines were getting a late start on Monday, July 1. Whether or not a field got a good stand during the dry planting season is making the difference between yields.&nbsp;

“We were really dry last fall; it was hard to get the wheat up and get a good stand,” Schemm said. “If you were able to get that decent stand, the wheat seemed to have enough legs under it this year to finish off. The wheat that had trouble last fall has been yielding — across the farm — lower than the wheat that did get that decent fall stand.”

The places that did catch spotty rains or winter snow are yielding up to 45 bushels per acre, but average yields are closer to 35 to 40 bushels per acre. Quality is also variable, but test weights are excellent at a 62 to 63 pounds-per-bushel average and average protein is strong at 12 to 13 percent.&nbsp;

He noted area farmers have not had issues with Wheat Streak Mosiac Virus (WSMV) this year because they did a good job keeping volunteer wheat under control and choosing resistant varieties like KS Dallas.&nbsp;

Scattered rains and accompanying humidity also kept producers from starting cutting until early afternoon in Hamilton County. Jason Ochs, who farms near Syracuse, reported he started cutting on June 21, but was delayed the following week by rain. Rain chances every night is stretching out a normal two-week harvest window, but the bigger theme of this year’s harvest is variability — within and between fields.&nbsp;

When local farmers say wheat is yielding better than expected, that may be only 20 bushels per acre on fields they didn’t even expect to cut. Others are seeing yields up to 60 bushels per acre.&nbsp;

“We’ve covered the bases for sure,” Ochs said. “We have short-rated wheat that never came up last fall. We’ve zeroed wheat out that just didn’t get the rains. We’ve had fields that caught on fire that we didn’t get cut. We have fields that are hailed out 80 to 90 percent. And yields are ranging up to well above 50 bushels to the acre. I have a really big spectrum.”

Across the county, Ochs guessed most people will end harvest above the county average of 30 to 32 bushels per acre across their entire operations. Test weights indicate good quality, coming in at or above 60 pounds per bushel. Proteins are ranging from 11.8 to 13 percent.&nbsp;

Ochs delivers his wheat to Scoular Grain in Coolidge. Ellie Katzer, senior originator at that location, reported seeing good quality wheat so far with yields higher than anticipated. The rains have not hit test weights and quality has hung on with the lingering harvest. Test weights are averaging 60 to 61 pounds per bushel. Average protein is 12 percent, but the range is from 8 to 15 percent.&nbsp;

The elevator took in their first load on June 12 but harvest did not kick into full gear until June 17. Katzer expects to harvest to have a “long tail” and finish up in mid-July.&nbsp;

“Everyone is pretty content with harvest this year,” she said. “It’s nice to see good quality, and there are some good yields out there.”&nbsp;

The return of heat advisories on Monday is likely to dry up lingering moisture from the weekend and keep the combines running for the rest of the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Tuesday, July 2.&nbsp;

The 2024 Harvest Reports are 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, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEjB2OzO3bwWhXD181MoC82nMrEcQ7KIivQvMXAv3tM8mFBz3I6wRJF911LhNGJM7y42ocaUHhFbfngPwIklKziQ-qQMwuE1p2UV2hK4WjtJYy5NVxaPS1ZjWgw77HWQVrBj72AI3LPVGEL_Ma-Xivbm_GWwpUvH1M48mp7TENtJR8a8UnhUXAvk=&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEsGaotS2-DauffTVvNFyGXievH_A9Py-epNPLfNt24m4vxvJ6oiJXZ_UkWWDSerLjHPAU_K8Opt4E_jxad4DSjqbtUvl9ZT5Bu8fCSuNO2pMyvG9gIMPJCU=&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEkkRAS14H69E7toneO8-oZgdw3jTNnS2aipW0_5h8Jdgpy2MU83RyFwI4f_n-njmuCQiQtAwIe0CGAi-YzDeA42n8imxi2ULabKaSucA2qXp&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEjq2D9XeOQ4PmX4PIyoHynjirnyft-9h2a9DPQ_enMgdxEPBMg3Rz5XZ5uQRcOfQpCBtPYFWVjTQaS6VRDnYybdyoXXD41o3i3NcYEx6rD55&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719877963854.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp; By Julia Debes, Kansas WheatKansas WheatThis is day 10 of the Kansas Wheat Harvest Reports, brought to you by the Kansas Wheat Commission, Kansas Association of Wheat Growers, Kansas Grain and Feed Association and the Kansas Cooperative Council.As the calendar flips over to July, the combines keep rolling across western Kansas, albeit getting a late start on Monday due to lingering moisture from rain over the weekend. Better than expected final yields can mean of one of two things to western producers — either that they are actually cutting fields they expected to zero out due to drought or they are seeing yields above last year or the county average in fields that caught spotty rains or winter snows. While yields are highly variable, test weights, protein and optimism remain strong.&nbsp;Officially, the Kansas wheat harvest is 80 percent complete, well ahead of 39 percent complete last year and 49 percent on average, according to the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service crop progress report for the week ending June 30, 2024.Wheat harvest is nearly complete in Ness County, according to Gary Gantz, president of D.E. Bondurant Grain Co. Inc.in Ness City. The Gantz family has operated the last remaining private grain elevator in Kansas for nearly four generations and reported this year’s wheat crop is nearly double what they took in last year.&nbsp;Great stands going into winter had area farmers feeling optimistic for a good crop, but a lack of moisture over the winter and into the spring put a damper on final results. Still, Gantz said most folks are “happy with the way things have shaken out” with average yields at about 30 bushels per acre, adequate test weights from 57 to 60 pounds per bushel and strong average protein at 12 percent. Standout varieties for the year include KS Western Star and KS Hamilton.&nbsp;This year’s wheat crop is also performing better than expected in far western Kansas, according to Clay Schemm, who farms with his parents in Wallace, Logan and Greeley counties.&nbsp;“I would not say it’s a great year, by any means, but definitely above what we had anticipated. We anticipated a pretty rough year,” he said. “I’d say we’re looking at an average to maybe slightly below average year on the wheat yield.”Harvest started in the area on June 20. With four or five days left, showers overnight on Sunday, June 30, meant combines were getting a late start on Monday, July 1. Whether or not a field got a good stand during the dry planting season is making the difference between yields.&nbsp;“We were really dry last fall; it was hard to get the wheat up and get a good stand,” Schemm said. “If you were able to get that decent stand, the wheat seemed to have enough legs under it this year to finish off. The wheat that had trouble last fall has been yielding — across the farm — lower than the wheat that did get that decent fall stand.”The places that did catch spotty rains or winter snow are yielding up to 45 bushels per acre, but average yields are closer to 35 to 40 bushels per acre. Quality is also variable, but test weights are excellent at a 62 to 63 pounds-per-bushel average and average protein is strong at 12 to 13 percent.&nbsp;He noted area farmers have not had issues with Wheat Streak Mosiac Virus (WSMV) this year because they did a good job keeping volunteer wheat under control and choosing resistant varieties like KS Dallas.&nbsp;Scattered rains and accompanying humidity also kept producers from starting cutting until early afternoon in Hamilton County. Jason Ochs, who farms near Syracuse, reported he started cutting on June 21, but was delayed the following week by rain. Rain chances every night is stretching out a normal two-week harvest window, but the bigger theme of this year’s harvest is variability — within and between fields.&nbsp;When local farmers say wheat is yielding better than expected, that may be only 20 bushels per acre on fields they didn’t even expect to cut. Others are seeing yields up to 60 bushels per acre.&nbsp;“We’ve covered the bases for sure,” Ochs said. “We have short-rated wheat that never came up last fall. We’ve zeroed wheat out that just didn’t get the rains. We’ve had fields that caught on fire that we didn’t get cut. We have fields that are hailed out 80 to 90 percent. And yields are ranging up to well above 50 bushels to the acre. I have a really big spectrum.”Across the county, Ochs guessed most people will end harvest above the county average of 30 to 32 bushels per acre across their entire operations. Test weights indicate good quality, coming in at or above 60 pounds per bushel. Proteins are ranging from 11.8 to 13 percent.&nbsp;Ochs delivers his wheat to Scoular Grain in Coolidge. Ellie Katzer, senior originator at that location, reported seeing good quality wheat so far with yields higher than anticipated. The rains have not hit test weights and quality has hung on with the lingering harvest. Test weights are averaging 60 to 61 pounds per bushel. Average protein is 12 percent, but the range is from 8 to 15 percent.&nbsp;The elevator took in their first load on June 12 but harvest did not kick into full gear until June 17. Katzer expects to harvest to have a “long tail” and finish up in mid-July.&nbsp;“Everyone is pretty content with harvest this year,” she said. “It’s nice to see good quality, and there are some good yields out there.”&nbsp;The return of heat advisories on Monday is likely to dry up lingering moisture from the weekend and keep the combines running for the rest of the holiday week. Stay tuned for the next Kansas wheat harvest report on Tuesday, July 2.&nbsp;The 2024 Harvest Reports are 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, use&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEjB2OzO3bwWhXD181MoC82nMrEcQ7KIivQvMXAv3tM8mFBz3I6wRJF911LhNGJM7y42ocaUHhFbfngPwIklKziQ-qQMwuE1p2UV2hK4WjtJYy5NVxaPS1ZjWgw77HWQVrBj72AI3LPVGEL_Ma-Xivbm_GWwpUvH1M48mp7TENtJR8a8UnhUXAvk=&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">#wheatharvest24</a>&nbsp;on social media.&nbsp;Tag us at @kansaswheat on&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEsGaotS2-DauffTVvNFyGXievH_A9Py-epNPLfNt24m4vxvJ6oiJXZ_UkWWDSerLjHPAU_K8Opt4E_jxad4DSjqbtUvl9ZT5Bu8fCSuNO2pMyvG9gIMPJCU=&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Facebook</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEkkRAS14H69E7toneO8-oZgdw3jTNnS2aipW0_5h8Jdgpy2MU83RyFwI4f_n-njmuCQiQtAwIe0CGAi-YzDeA42n8imxi2ULabKaSucA2qXp&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Instagram</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sfdzp7cab.cc.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0017b-ohsDdLJmHeHGzHKl8tQYZHI1--heDt64MOASC4QBcU2g9VHPMEjq2D9XeOQ4PmX4PIyoHynjirnyft-9h2a9DPQ_enMgdxEPBMg3Rz5XZ5uQRcOfQpCBtPYFWVjTQaS6VRDnYybdyoXXD41o3i3NcYEx6rD55&amp;c=oYNQUASlUyddsQ_odAmJz2B3eTUTvybRQVB9WujxjijW6GtUL5eNvA==&amp;ch=MatN5tygeEbsy1TsPQpRWG1t_x4utVr7gpjv332Z6cJxUt5LvybTzA==">Twitter</a>&nbsp;to share your harvest story and photos.

Day 10, Kansas Wheat Harvest Report

The Kansas Department of Transportation has closed the eastbound and westbound I-70 rest areas at mile marker 310 in Geary County until further notice. A water main has broken at the facility and barricades have been placed at the entrance ramps.

By Ashley Perez&nbsp;KDOTThe Kansas Department of Transportation has closed the eastbound and westbound I-70 rest areas at mile marker 310 in Geary County until further notice. A water main has broken at the facility and barricades have been placed at the entrance ramps.

I-70 rest areas closed in Geary County

by BECKY GOFF Little Apple Post

RILEY, KS - Starting on Monday, July 15th, Kansas Avenue, heading west out of Riley will be closed to through traffic.

A structure replacement project will have Kansas Avenue closed from West Street to the intersection with Crooked Creek Road(Hwy 24).

The project is estimated to be completed by Wednesday, July 24th, weather permitting.

If you have questions about this project or other projects, contact the Riley County Public Works Department at 785-537-6330 or go to their office at 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719844907118.jpeg" alt="Kansas Ave closure in Riley, map courtesy of Riley County Public Works Department" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Ave closure in Riley, map courtesy of Riley County Public Works Department</figcaption>
 </figure>by BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostRILEY, KS - Starting on Monday, July 15th, Kansas Avenue, heading west out of Riley will be closed to through traffic.A structure replacement project will have Kansas Avenue closed from West Street to the intersection with Crooked Creek Road(Hwy 24).The project is estimated to be completed by Wednesday, July 24th, weather permitting.If you have questions about this project or other projects, contact the Riley County Public Works Department at 785-537-6330 or go to their office at 6215 Tuttle Creek Blvd, Manhattan, Kansas.

Kansas Avenue to close on July 15 for structure replacement

LYLE ARTHUR PHINNEY, 72, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $500

SARAH ELIZABETH NORRIS, 32, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; DUI causing bodily harm; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $6,000

MANFRED ADRIEN ELOCKA NGOM, 29, Manhattan, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Bond $5,000

JACOB ALLEN TABER, 26, Manhattan, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of stimulant; Bond $4,000

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;LYLE ARTHUR PHINNEY, 72, Manhattan, Criminal trespass; Remain in defiance of order by owner; Bond $500SARAH ELIZABETH NORRIS, 32, Manhattan, Aggravated battery; DUI causing bodily harm; Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $6,000MANFRED ADRIEN ELOCKA NGOM, 29, Manhattan, Criminal threat; Cause terror, evacuation or disruption; Bond $5,000JACOB ALLEN TABER, 26, Manhattan, Use/possess w/intent to use drug paraphernalia into human body; Possession of stimulant; Bond $4,000

Riley County Arrest Report July 1

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

MANHATTAN - On Monday morning, fire crews from the Manhattan Fire Department were dispatched to 2514 Stagg Hill Road on the report of a structure fire, just before 7:00 am, according to a media release.

When crews arrived, they found the three-story apartment building with smoke coming from the third floor.

After searching the building, crews had the fire extinguished within 15 minutes.&nbsp;

Damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started.

Seventeen firefighters on 5 fire apparatus responded to the scene with the final crews clearing the scene just before 9:00 am.

Stagg Hill Road was closed for about an hour as crews fought the fire, but has since reopened.

Loss is estimated at $50,000, the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The 3-story building contains 12 apartments and the owner is listed as the Russell K. Briggs Trust of Manhattan.

The Manhattan Fire Department is an ISO Class I, career fire department, serving the City of Manhattan from five fire stations.  The department provides fire, emergency medical first response, technician-level hazardous material response, and technical rescue including vehicle extrication, trench, high and low angle, surface water, structural collapse, and wide area search.  The department serves as a Type I regional hazardous materials response team through the State Fire Marshal primarily serving 8 counties in the surrounding area.  MFD is part of Northeast Task Force 2, a search and rescue/water rescue team with other area departments, and is tasked to cover 23 counties for urban search and rescue response

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/7/1719841906255.jpeg" alt="picture courtesy Manhattan Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>picture courtesy Manhattan Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY GOFF Little Apple PostMANHATTAN - On Monday morning, fire crews from the Manhattan Fire Department were dispatched to 2514 Stagg Hill Road on the report of a structure fire, just before 7:00 am, according to a media release.When crews arrived, they found the three-story apartment building with smoke coming from the third floor.After searching the building, crews had the fire extinguished within 15 minutes.&nbsp;Damage was contained to the apartment where the fire started.Seventeen firefighters on 5 fire apparatus responded to the scene with the final crews clearing the scene just before 9:00 am.Stagg Hill Road was closed for about an hour as crews fought the fire, but has since reopened.No injuries were reported with the fire.Loss is estimated at $50,000, the cause of the fire remains under investigation.The 3-story building contains 12 apartments and the owner is listed as the Russell K. Briggs Trust of Manhattan.The Manhattan Fire Department is an ISO Class I, career fire department, serving the City of Manhattan from five fire stations. The department provides fire, emergency medical first response, technician-level hazardous material response, and technical rescue including vehicle extrication, trench, high and low angle, surface water, structural collapse, and wide area search. The department serves as a Type I regional hazardous materials response team through the State Fire Marshal primarily serving 8 counties in the surrounding area. MFD is part of Northeast Task Force 2, a search and rescue/water rescue team with other area departments, and is tasked to cover 23 counties for urban search and rescue response

Fire causes $50K in damages to apartment building on Stagg Hill Road

By RYLEE COY.&nbsp;K-State News Service

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 Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center, 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 ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately for advice.

For more information, contact the Veterinary Health Center at 785-532-5690.

By RYLEE COY.&nbsp;K-State News ServiceAs 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 Kansas State University Veterinary Health Center, 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 ASPCA Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435 or the Pet Poison Helpline at 855-764-7661 immediately for advice.For more information, contact the Veterinary Health Center at 785-532-5690.

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

TIERRA KIRSTIN JACKSON, 33, Manhattan, Interference with LEO, obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Failure to appear; Bond $500

JAROD CHANDLER PETTY, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $2,000

DONNITHAN MAURICE JONES, 31, Dodge City, Probation Violation; Remains confined to Riley County Jail

BRYCE DWANE QUINN, 25, Fort Riley, Aggravated battery; Recklessly can cause body harm/disfig/death w/deadly weapon; Bond $15,000

DOMINIC LAWRENCEJ JELOVNIK, 26, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $2,500

JOANNE ELIZABETH BURNETT, 50, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000

KEITH MITCHELL PEEKS, 27, Marysville, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750

BRITTNEE NICOLE ARMSTRONG, 31, Manhattan, Battery; Health care employee; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Endangering a child; Bond $6,000

CHRISTOPHER GEORGE SUMMERS, 28, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $4,000

The following is a summary of arrests, citations by the Riley County Police Department. Those arrested are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.&nbsp;Arrest Report June 29:TIERRA KIRSTIN JACKSON, 33, Manhattan, Interference with LEO, obstruct/resist/oppose misdemeanor warrant service or execution; Failure to appear; Bond $500JAROD CHANDLER PETTY, 19, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $2,000DONNITHAN MAURICE JONES, 31, Dodge City, Probation Violation; Remains confined to Riley County JailBRYCE DWANE QUINN, 25, Fort Riley, Aggravated battery; Recklessly can cause body harm/disfig/death w/deadly weapon; Bond $15,000DOMINIC LAWRENCEJ JELOVNIK, 26, Manhattan, Criminal damage to property; Without consent value $1000 to $25,000; Bond $2,500JOANNE ELIZABETH BURNETT, 50, Manhattan, Domestic battery; Knowing or reckless bodily harm to family/person in dating relationship; Bond $2,000Arrest Report June 30:KEITH MITCHELL PEEKS, 27, Marysville, Driving under the influence of drugs/alcohol; 1st conv; blood/breath .08 or &gt;; Bond $750BRITTNEE NICOLE ARMSTRONG, 31, Manhattan, Battery; Health care employee; Battery on LEO; Physical contact with county or city officer on duty; Endangering a child; Bond $6,000CHRISTOPHER GEORGE SUMMERS, 28, Manhattan, Failure to appear; Bond $4,000

Riley County Arrest Report June 29/30

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.

<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.”

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