USD 383 has announced that Whitney George and Jamie Schnee were selected as the district nominees for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year. Whitney George is at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School while Jamie Schnee is at Manhattan High School.

USD 383 has announced that Whitney George and Jamie Schnee were selected as the district nominees for the 2026 Kansas Teacher of the Year. Whitney George is at Theodore Roosevelt Elementary School while Jamie Schnee is at Manhattan High School.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730327839990.jpeg" alt=" " />
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USD 383 Teacher of the Year nominees

Election Day is right around the corner. Even for non-political scientists it’s the most important day of the year. It’s the day when Kansans get to put democracy into practice and choose their elected officials.

Thanks to the efforts of IKE Lab at Wichita State University to make Kansas voter registration and election data available to the public, it’s fairly easy to track early voting data.

Early voting began 15 days before Election Day on October 21.

As of October 30, 163,634 mail ballots had been sent out statewide, and 97,634 had been returned. Of those, 43,533 were returned by Democrats, 39,460 by Republicans, and 14,140 by unaffiliated voters.

An additional 294,081 Kansans have voted early in-person — 157,567 Republicans, 93,314 Democrats, and 41,220 unaffiliated voters.

Kansans are turning out to early vote in droves, particularly voters in the state’s largest counties.

Typically, high levels of early voting means it’s going to be a high turnout election overall.

As for who is going to win…? I’m a political scientist, not a forecaster, but we do have new public opinion data to give us some insight.

Kansas Speaks, conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, surveyed Kansans in mid-October.

First, Laura Kelly remains the most popular elected official in the state with a 46.4% satisfaction rating. While not on the ballot, her continued popularity does signal hope for other moderate Democrats running for office this year who have taken a leaf out of her middle-of-the-road playbook.

Second, only 29% of Kansans are satisfied with the Kansas Legislature. While Republicans are all but guaranteed to maintain the majority in both houses, Democrats are working hard to break the supermajority by flipping at least 3 seats in the Senate and 2 in the House. The legislature’s low approval rating may potentially help Democrats flip these seats.

Third, among likely voters who answered the survey, 48% said they plan to vote for Donald Trump while 43% said they plan to vote for Kamala Harris — a 5 point difference. Among all registered voters, there’s a 10 point difference.

The actual vote is likely going to be somewhere in between.

In 2020, Trump won Kansas by over 14 points and Republicans have carried the state in 19 of the last 20 presidential elections. I don’t think these polling results mean Kansas is a swing state. But they may indicate that Kansas is becoming less conservative.

Harris is polling slightly higher than Biden’s 2020 vote count, and any increase in the margins could bode well for Democrats in tight races at the state and county levels.

This is a good reminder that while 2024 is a “presidential” election year, there’s so much more on the ballot than just the president. Don’t forget to also vote in down-ballot races like US Congress; Kansas House, Senate, and Board of Education; and various judicial and county races!

These elections impact your everyday life much more than the race for president.

Check out the Kansas Secretary of State’s website, including your specific voting information on the VoterView page. VoterView shows your polling location and hours, sample ballot, and much more!

Check with your county election office for early voting hours and locations. All early in-person voting ends on Monday, November 4 at noon.

Mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by your county election office by the close of business on Friday, November 8. Mail ballots can also be

returned in-person to a polling location, ballot drop box, or county election office on or before Election Day.

______________________________________________________________________

Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

Alexandra MiddlewoodElection Day is right around the corner. Even for non-political scientists it’s the most important day of the year. It’s the day when Kansans get to put democracy into practice and choose their elected officials.Thanks to the efforts of IKE Lab at Wichita State University to make Kansas voter registration and election data available to the public, it’s fairly easy to track early voting data.Early voting began 15 days before Election Day on October 21.As of October 30, 163,634 mail ballots had been sent out statewide, and 97,634 had been returned. Of those, 43,533 were returned by Democrats, 39,460 by Republicans, and 14,140 by unaffiliated voters.An additional 294,081 Kansans have voted early in-person — 157,567 Republicans, 93,314 Democrats, and 41,220 unaffiliated voters.Kansans are turning out to early vote in droves, particularly voters in the state’s largest counties.Typically, high levels of early voting means it’s going to be a high turnout election overall.As for who is going to win…? I’m a political scientist, not a forecaster, but we do have new public opinion data to give us some insight.Kansas Speaks, conducted by the Docking Institute of Public Affairs at Fort Hays State University, surveyed Kansans in mid-October.First, Laura Kelly remains the most popular elected official in the state with a 46.4% satisfaction rating. While not on the ballot, her continued popularity does signal hope for other moderate Democrats running for office this year who have taken a leaf out of her middle-of-the-road playbook.Second, only 29% of Kansans are satisfied with the Kansas Legislature. While Republicans are all but guaranteed to maintain the majority in both houses, Democrats are working hard to break the supermajority by flipping at least 3 seats in the Senate and 2 in the House. The legislature’s low approval rating may potentially help Democrats flip these seats.Third, among likely voters who answered the survey, 48% said they plan to vote for Donald Trump while 43% said they plan to vote for Kamala Harris — a 5 point difference. Among all registered voters, there’s a 10 point difference.The actual vote is likely going to be somewhere in between.In 2020, Trump won Kansas by over 14 points and Republicans have carried the state in 19 of the last 20 presidential elections. I don’t think these polling results mean Kansas is a swing state. But they may indicate that Kansas is becoming less conservative.Harris is polling slightly higher than Biden’s 2020 vote count, and any increase in the margins could bode well for Democrats in tight races at the state and county levels.This is a good reminder that while 2024 is a “presidential” election year, there’s so much more on the ballot than just the president. Don’t forget to also vote in down-ballot races like US Congress; Kansas House, Senate, and Board of Education; and various judicial and county races!These elections impact your everyday life much more than the race for president.Make sure you get out and vote!Need voting information?Check out the Kansas Secretary of State’s website, including your specific voting information on the VoterView page. VoterView shows your polling location and hours, sample ballot, and much more!Check with your county election office for early voting hours and locations. All early in-person voting ends on Monday, November 4 at noon.Mail ballots must be postmarked on or before Election Day and received by your county election office by the close of business on Friday, November 8. Mail ballots can also bereturned in-person to a polling location, ballot drop box, or county election office on or before Election Day.______________________________________________________________________Alexandra Middlewood, PhD is an associate professor and chair of the Political Science Department at Wichita State University.

Election Preview from a Political Scientist

Don't forget to "fall back" an hour early Sunday morning, November 3.&nbsp; This is also a time to get the batteries changed in your smoke detectors and other alarms plus the batteries in your flashlight or emergency kit.

Daylight Savings Time begins Sunday.Don't forget to "fall back" an hour early Sunday morning, November 3.&nbsp; This is also a time to get the batteries changed in your smoke detectors and other alarms plus the batteries in your flashlight or emergency kit.Set your clocks back one hour.

Prepare for Daylight Savings Time

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted murder in Manhattan.

Just before 11p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 400 block of Walters Drive in Manhattan, according to a media release.

&nbsp;It was reported a 53-year-old man identified as Marcus Washington of Manhattan stabbed a 39-year-old victim with a knife. The victim is being treated for his injuries and is reported to be in stable condition.

Police arrested Washington on requested charges of attempted murder and aggravated battery. He is being held on a bond of $250,000.

Police also arrested 41-year-old Alvin Love of and 26-year-old Nichole Cochrun both Manhattan on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and obstructing apprehension of prosecution in connection with the stabbing, according to the RCPD. Both are being held on separate $10,000 bonds.

Just before 11p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery in the 400 block of Walters Dr in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

Police have not reported an arrest and released no additional details early Wednesday.

RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted murder in Manhattan.Just before 11p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; police responded to a report of a stabbing in the 400 block of Walters Drive in Manhattan, according to a media release.&nbsp;It was reported a 53-year-old man identified as Marcus Washington of Manhattan stabbed a 39-year-old victim with a knife. The victim is being treated for his injuries and is reported to be in stable condition.Police arrested Washington on requested charges of attempted murder and aggravated battery. He is being held on a bond of $250,000.Police also arrested 41-year-old Alvin Love of and 26-year-old Nichole Cochrun both Manhattan on requested charges of interference with law enforcement and obstructing apprehension of prosecution in connection with the stabbing, according to the RCPD. Both are being held on separate $10,000 bonds.---------------RILEY COUNTY — Law enforcement are investigating an alleged attempted murder in Manhattan.Just before 11p.m. Tuesday, officers filed a report for attempted first degree murder and aggravated battery in the 400 block of Walters Dr in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.Police have not reported an arrest and released no additional details early Wednesday.

Police: 3 in custody after violent knife attack in Manhattan

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.

Just before 5p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; Riley County Police arrested 29-year-old Damion Huff of Overland Park on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. 

Huff was issued no bond and remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.&nbsp; On Monday, he was jailed in Johnson County for on a requested charge that included interference with a law enforcement officer, according to online jail records.&nbsp; On Oct. 6, he was jailed in Johnson County for alleged battery of a law enforcement officer.&nbsp; April he was jailed for alleged domestic violence.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is scheduled to make a court appearance in Johnson County Wednesday, according to online jail records.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730302699866.png" alt="Huff photo from an arrest in Johnson County" />
 <figcaption>Huff photo from an arrest in Johnson County</figcaption>
 </figure>RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after an arrest.Just before 5p.m. Tuesday,&nbsp; Riley County Police arrested 29-year-old Damion Huff of Overland Park on a Riley County District Court warrant for probation violation. Huff was issued no bond and remains confined in the Riley County Jail at the time of this report.&nbsp; On Monday, he was jailed in Johnson County for on a requested charge that included interference with a law enforcement officer, according to online jail records.&nbsp; On Oct. 6, he was jailed in Johnson County for alleged battery of a law enforcement officer.&nbsp; April he was jailed for alleged domestic violence.&nbsp;&nbsp;He is scheduled to make a court appearance in Johnson County Wednesday, according to online jail records.

Kansas man with a history of violent crime jailed in Riley County

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.

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730298019138.png" alt="" />
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 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report Oct. 30

&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
  Southeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
  Southeastern Geary County in east central Kansas...
  Morris County in east central Kansas...

* Until 430 PM CDT.

* 

At 402 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 5 miles north of
  Burdick, moving northeast at 50 mph.

  HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

  SOURCE...Radar indicated.

  IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* 

Locations impacted include...
  Herington, Council Grove, White City, Dwight, Wilsey, Parkerville,
  Latimer, Council Grove Lake, and Burdick.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The National Weather Service said that thunderstorms will develop along a cold front as it moves southeast across the area today.

● The potential hazards with the storms include damaging winds, a few tornadoes, and hail.

● Storms will occur throughout the morning across north-central KS before moving east during the afternoon, and are expected to exit east central KS by 10-11 pm. The greatest severe threat is expected to be between 4 and 10 pm over northeast and east central KS.

Confidence in thunderstorms is high today. Damaging winds are the most likely hazard. But there may be enough ingredients for a strong tornado or two. The risk for tornadoes is a low probability / high impact setup in that it’s not ideal, but there are enough ingredients to be on alert.

● The tornado threat, particularly for any strong tornado, will be highest with any discrete or embedded supercells.

○ The main uncertainty with this is if the cold front will help reduce this potential by undercutting storms

● A brief tornado or two will also be possible within the larger scale line of storms, but at a lower potential than with any supercell.

The National Weather Service provided more storm forecast information for Wednesday.

Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson-

Severe thunderstorms are possible mainly late this afternoon through this evening. Large hail, damaging wind, and a few tornadoes are all possible.

The National Weather Service has issued a prediction for severe weather on Wednesday. 

You can expect windy conditions with gusts around 50 mph Tuesday night as well.

For Wednesday thunderstorms will develop along a cold front as it moves southeast across the area. The severe weather threat continues to increase, with damaging winds, hail, and a few tornadoes all possible.

The severe threat will generally last from 1-10 PM, peaking at 5-9 pm in northeast and east-central Ks..

UPDATE:&nbsp;The National Weather Service in Topeka has issued a

* Severe Thunderstorm Warning for...
 Southeastern Dickinson County in central Kansas...
 Southeastern Geary County in east central Kansas...
 Morris County in east central Kansas...

* Until 430 PM CDT.

* At 402 PM CDT, a severe thunderstorm was located 5 miles north of
 Burdick, moving northeast at 50 mph.

 HAZARD...60 mph wind gusts.

 SOURCE...Radar indicated.

 IMPACT...Expect damage to roofs, siding, and trees.

* Locations impacted include...
 Herington, Council Grove, White City, Dwight, Wilsey, Parkerville,
 Latimer, Council Grove Lake, and Burdick.&nbsp;&nbsp;---The National Weather Service said that thunderstorms will develop along a cold front as it moves southeast across the area today.● The potential hazards with the storms include damaging winds, a few tornadoes, and hail.● Storms will occur throughout the morning across north-central KS before moving east during the afternoon, and are expected to exit east central KS by 10-11 pm. The greatest severe threat is expected to be between 4 and 10 pm over northeast and east central KS.Confidence in thunderstorms is high today. Damaging winds are the most likely hazard. But there may be enough ingredients for a strong tornado or two. The risk for tornadoes is a low probability / high impact setup in that it’s not ideal, but there are enough ingredients to be on alert.● The tornado threat, particularly for any strong tornado, will be highest with any discrete or embedded supercells.○ The main uncertainty with this is if the cold front will help reduce this potential by undercutting storms● A brief tornado or two will also be possible within the larger scale line of storms, but at a lower potential than with any supercell.The National Weather Service provided more storm forecast information for Wednesday.Republic-Washington-Marshall-Nemaha-Brown-Cloud-Clay-Riley-Pottawatomie-Jackson-Jefferson-Ottawa-Dickinson-Geary-Morris-Wabaunsee-Shawnee-Douglas-Lyon-Osage-Franklin-Coffey-Anderson-Today and tonight.Severe thunderstorms are possible mainly late this afternoon through this evening. Large hail, damaging wind, and a few tornadoes are all possible.---The National Weather Service has issued a prediction for severe weather on Wednesday. You can expect windy conditions with gusts around 50 mph Tuesday night as well.For Wednesday thunderstorms will develop along a cold front as it moves southeast across the area. The severe weather threat continues to increase, with damaging winds, hail, and a few tornadoes all possible.The severe threat will generally last from 1-10 PM, peaking at 5-9 pm in northeast and east-central Ks..

Severe weather update

There will be trick or treating at Manhattan Town Center on Thursday.

According to a social media post by Town Center, Businesses will be handing out candy to trick-or-treaters from 4-6pb at their entrances. This is a free community event and no tickets are needed.

There will be trick or treating at Manhattan Town Center on Thursday.According to a social media post by Town Center, Businesses will be handing out candy to trick-or-treaters from 4-6pb at their entrances. This is a free community event and no tickets are needed.

Town Center will host trick or treating

(Riley County, KS - October 29, 2024) Riley County voters have more opportunities to cast their ballots early with longer polling hours this week. The Riley County Office Building will be open for advance voting from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through Thursday, October 31st, giving voters more flexibility to vote at their convenience.

 See the full schedule for both polling places below. As of close of business on Monday, October 28, 2024, a total of 7,763 voters in Riley County have cast their ballots, either in person or by mail.&nbsp;

By Vivienne Leyva&nbsp;Riley County PIO(Riley County, KS - October 29, 2024) Riley County voters have more opportunities to cast their ballots early with longer polling hours this week. The Riley County Office Building will be open for advance voting from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. through Thursday, October 31st, giving voters more flexibility to vote at their convenience. See the full schedule for both polling places below. As of close of business on Monday, October 28, 2024, a total of 7,763 voters in Riley County have cast their ballots, either in person or by mail.&nbsp;

Advance Voting Continues This Week with Extended Hours

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two cases of alleged domestic violence in Manhattan.

Just after 2a.m. Monday. officers filed a report for aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, criminal restraint and criminal deprivation of property in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.

 A 35-year-old woman reported a 32-year-old man hit her causing significant injury, restrained her and withheld property from her. &nbsp;Kaleb Murphy, 32, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, criminal restraint, domestic battery, and criminal deprivation of property. Murphy is being held on a $10,000 bond.

Just before 11p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated domestic battery, robbery, violation of a protection order, and theft in Manhattan, according to&nbsp; the Riley County Police Department Activity Report.

 A 36-year-old woman reported a 39-year-old man violated a protection order, battered her, and took her property by force. &nbsp;Evan Lied, 39, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, robbery, violation of a protection order, and theft. Lied is being held on a $20,000 bond.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating two cases of alleged domestic violence in Manhattan.Just after 2a.m. Monday. officers filed a report for aggravated domestic battery, domestic battery, criminal restraint and criminal deprivation of property in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report. A 35-year-old woman reported a 32-year-old man hit her causing significant injury, restrained her and withheld property from her. &nbsp;Kaleb Murphy, 32, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, criminal restraint, domestic battery, and criminal deprivation of property. Murphy is being held on a $10,000 bond.Just before 11p.m. Monday, officers filed a report for aggravated domestic battery, robbery, violation of a protection order, and theft in Manhattan, according to&nbsp; the Riley County Police Department Activity Report. A 36-year-old woman reported a 39-year-old man violated a protection order, battered her, and took her property by force. &nbsp;Evan Lied, 39, was arrested for aggravated domestic battery, robbery, violation of a protection order, and theft. Lied is being held on a $20,000 bond.

2 jailed in separate violent attacks on women in Manhattan

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730210879141.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report Oct. 29

The FTC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/lyft_complaint.pdf">is taking action</a>&nbsp;against rideshare operator Lyft for making deceptive earnings claims about how much money drivers could expect to make per hour and how much they could earn in special incentives.

Lyft has agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/lyft_proposed_order.pdf">a proposed settlement</a>&nbsp;that would require its claims about drivers’ pay to be based on typical earnings. In addition, Lyft has agreed to back up with evidence any claims it makes about drivers’ pay, clearly notify drivers about the terms of its “earnings guarantee” offers, and pay a $2.1 million civil penalty.

The U.S. Department of Justice filed the lawsuit and proposed settlement upon notification and referral from the FTC.

“It is illegal to lure workers with misleading claims about how much they will earn on the job,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The FTC will keep using all its tools to hold businesses accountable when they violate the law and exploit American workers.”

The complaint against Lyft alleges that as demand for rideshare services increased in 2021 and 2022, Lyft made numerous false and misleading claims in its advertising and marketing about how much money consumers could make if they chose to drive for Lyft.

Ads for Lyft advertised that drivers around the country could make specific hourly amounts. For example, potential drivers in Atlanta were offered up to $33 an hour, potential drivers in Portland were offered $41 an hour and potential drivers in Los Angeles were offered up to $43 an hour. Lyft failed to disclose that these amounts did not represent the income an average driver could expect to earn, but instead were based on the earnings of the top one-fifth of drivers. The complaint notes that these figures overinflated the actual earnings achieved by most drivers by as much as 30%.

In addition, the complaint notes that the hourly earnings claims Lyft made in its ads included tips paid by passengers, even though many drivers would assume any tips they received would be in addition to an hourly pay figure.

In its advertisements, Lyft also tried to entice drivers by touting “earnings guarantees,” which supposedly guaranteed that drivers would be paid a set amount if they completed a specific number of rides in a certain time. For example, one guarantee promised drivers they would make $975 if they completed 45 rides in a weekend. But these guarantees did not clearly disclose that drivers were only paid the difference between what they actually earned, and Lyft’s advertised guaranteed amount. Drivers complained to the company in large numbers that they believed the amount Lyft guaranteed would be paid as a bonus on top of whatever pay they received for completing the assigned number of rides.

One driver complained to the FTC that: “…This [is] unacceptable and not fair. . . . [Lyft] is misleading their drivers. [Lyft] should pay their driver[s] as stated, it shows I completed the task. As the driver, I expected to be paid for the service I rendered.”

The court complaint notes that Lyft continued to make these deceptive earnings claims even after receiving the FTC’s Notice of Penalty Offenses that put the company on notice that deceptive earnings claims were unlawful.

In addition to requiring the company to pay a $2.1 million civil penalty, the proposed settlement also will prohibit Lyft from making any earnings claim unless they have meaningful evidence to back that claim up. In addition, Lyft will be prohibited from making any claims about hourly earnings that include tips as part of the stated hourly amount. The settlement will also require Lyft to clearly disclose to drivers that, under its earnings guarantees, drivers will receive only the difference between their regular earnings and the guaranteed amount. The settlement also requires Lyft to provide notice to its drivers about the settlement.

Today’s action is part of the FTC’s ongoing efforts to protect workers in the gig economy. In 2021, the FTC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2021/02/amazon-pay-617-million-settle-ftc-charges-it-withheld-some-customer-tips-amazon-flex-drivers">reached a settlement with Amazon</a>&nbsp;returning more than $60 million to Amazon Flex drivers whose tips were illegally withheld. In 2022, the FTC took action against HomeAdvisor for misleading service providers, and the following year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/01/ftc-order-requires-homeadvisor-pay-72-million-stop-deceptively-marketing-its-leads-home-improvement">obtained an order</a>&nbsp;barring false claims and providing millions in redress. This year, the FTC challenged deceptive earnings claims and other unlawful practices by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/07/ftc-takes-action-against-gig-work-company-arise-virtual-solutions-deceiving-consumers-about-pay">Arise</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/08/ftc-takes-action-against-carecom-deceiving-caregivers-about-wages-availability-jobs-its-site">Care.com</a>, securing conduct relief and more than $15 million for affected workers. The FTC has detailed how its authorities apply in the gig economy in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/09/ftc-crack-down-companies-taking-advantage-gig-workers">Policy Statement on Enforcement Related to Gig Work</a>. &nbsp;

The Commission vote to authorize the staff to refer the complaint to the DOJ and to approve the proposed consent decree was 3-2, with Commissioners Melissa Holyoak and Andrew Ferguson dissenting. Chair Lina M. Khan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/statement-chair-lina-m-khan-joined-commissioner-rebecca-kelly-slaughter-commissioner-alvaro-m-bedoya-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>&nbsp;joined by Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro M. Bedoya. Commissioner Holyoak&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/dissenting-statement-commissioner-melissa-holyoak-matter-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>. Commissioner Andrew N. Ferguson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/statement-commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-concurring-part-dissenting-part-matter-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>. The DOJ filed the complaint and proposed consent decree upon notification and referral from the Commission in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.

NOTE:&nbsp;The Commission authorizes the filing of a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Consent decrees have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.

The staff attorneys on this matter were Evan Rose and Abdiel T. Lewis of the FTC’s Western Region San Francisco.

The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. &nbsp;The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/">consumer.ftc.gov</a>, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media">FTC on social media</a>, read&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts">consumer alerts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog">business blog</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected">sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/4/1619632629588.png" alt=" " />
 <figcaption> </figcaption>
 </figure>Federal Trade CommissionThe FTC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/lyft_complaint.pdf">is taking action</a>&nbsp;against rideshare operator Lyft for making deceptive earnings claims about how much money drivers could expect to make per hour and how much they could earn in special incentives.Lyft has agreed to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/ftc_gov/pdf/lyft_proposed_order.pdf">a proposed settlement</a>&nbsp;that would require its claims about drivers’ pay to be based on typical earnings. In addition, Lyft has agreed to back up with evidence any claims it makes about drivers’ pay, clearly notify drivers about the terms of its “earnings guarantee” offers, and pay a $2.1 million civil penalty.The U.S. Department of Justice filed the lawsuit and proposed settlement upon notification and referral from the FTC.“It is illegal to lure workers with misleading claims about how much they will earn on the job,” said FTC Chair Lina M. Khan. “The FTC will keep using all its tools to hold businesses accountable when they violate the law and exploit American workers.”The complaint against Lyft alleges that as demand for rideshare services increased in 2021 and 2022, Lyft made numerous false and misleading claims in its advertising and marketing about how much money consumers could make if they chose to drive for Lyft.Ads for Lyft advertised that drivers around the country could make specific hourly amounts. For example, potential drivers in Atlanta were offered up to $33 an hour, potential drivers in Portland were offered $41 an hour and potential drivers in Los Angeles were offered up to $43 an hour. Lyft failed to disclose that these amounts did not represent the income an average driver could expect to earn, but instead were based on the earnings of the top one-fifth of drivers. The complaint notes that these figures overinflated the actual earnings achieved by most drivers by as much as 30%.In addition, the complaint notes that the hourly earnings claims Lyft made in its ads included tips paid by passengers, even though many drivers would assume any tips they received would be in addition to an hourly pay figure.In its advertisements, Lyft also tried to entice drivers by touting “earnings guarantees,” which supposedly guaranteed that drivers would be paid a set amount if they completed a specific number of rides in a certain time. For example, one guarantee promised drivers they would make $975 if they completed 45 rides in a weekend. But these guarantees did not clearly disclose that drivers were only paid the difference between what they actually earned, and Lyft’s advertised guaranteed amount. Drivers complained to the company in large numbers that they believed the amount Lyft guaranteed would be paid as a bonus on top of whatever pay they received for completing the assigned number of rides.One driver complained to the FTC that: “…This [is] unacceptable and not fair. . . . [Lyft] is misleading their drivers. [Lyft] should pay their driver[s] as stated, it shows I completed the task. As the driver, I expected to be paid for the service I rendered.”The court complaint notes that Lyft continued to make these deceptive earnings claims even after receiving the FTC’s Notice of Penalty Offenses that put the company on notice that deceptive earnings claims were unlawful.In addition to requiring the company to pay a $2.1 million civil penalty, the proposed settlement also will prohibit Lyft from making any earnings claim unless they have meaningful evidence to back that claim up. In addition, Lyft will be prohibited from making any claims about hourly earnings that include tips as part of the stated hourly amount. The settlement will also require Lyft to clearly disclose to drivers that, under its earnings guarantees, drivers will receive only the difference between their regular earnings and the guaranteed amount. The settlement also requires Lyft to provide notice to its drivers about the settlement.Today’s action is part of the FTC’s ongoing efforts to protect workers in the gig economy. In 2021, the FTC&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2021/02/amazon-pay-617-million-settle-ftc-charges-it-withheld-some-customer-tips-amazon-flex-drivers">reached a settlement with Amazon</a>&nbsp;returning more than $60 million to Amazon Flex drivers whose tips were illegally withheld. In 2022, the FTC took action against HomeAdvisor for misleading service providers, and the following year&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2023/01/ftc-order-requires-homeadvisor-pay-72-million-stop-deceptively-marketing-its-leads-home-improvement">obtained an order</a>&nbsp;barring false claims and providing millions in redress. This year, the FTC challenged deceptive earnings claims and other unlawful practices by&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/07/ftc-takes-action-against-gig-work-company-arise-virtual-solutions-deceiving-consumers-about-pay">Arise</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2024/08/ftc-takes-action-against-carecom-deceiving-caregivers-about-wages-availability-jobs-its-site">Care.com</a>, securing conduct relief and more than $15 million for affected workers. The FTC has detailed how its authorities apply in the gig economy in its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/news/press-releases/2022/09/ftc-crack-down-companies-taking-advantage-gig-workers">Policy Statement on Enforcement Related to Gig Work</a>. &nbsp;The Commission vote to authorize the staff to refer the complaint to the DOJ and to approve the proposed consent decree was 3-2, with Commissioners Melissa Holyoak and Andrew Ferguson dissenting. Chair Lina M. Khan&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/statement-chair-lina-m-khan-joined-commissioner-rebecca-kelly-slaughter-commissioner-alvaro-m-bedoya-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>&nbsp;joined by Rebecca Kelly Slaughter and Alvaro M. Bedoya. Commissioner Holyoak&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/dissenting-statement-commissioner-melissa-holyoak-matter-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>. Commissioner Andrew N. Ferguson&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/legal-library/browse/cases-proceedings/public-statements/statement-commissioner-andrew-n-ferguson-concurring-part-dissenting-part-matter-lyft-inc">issued a statement</a>. The DOJ filed the complaint and proposed consent decree upon notification and referral from the Commission in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of California.NOTE:&nbsp;The Commission authorizes the filing of a complaint when it has “reason to believe” that the named defendants are violating or are about to violate the law and it appears to the Commission that a proceeding is in the public interest. Consent decrees have the force of law when approved and signed by the District Court judge.The staff attorneys on this matter were Evan Rose and Abdiel T. Lewis of the FTC’s Western Region San Francisco.The Federal Trade Commission works to promote competition and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/about-ftc/bureaus-offices/bureau-consumer-protection">protect and educate consumers</a>. &nbsp;The FTC will never demand money, make threats, tell you to transfer money, or promise you a prize. Learn more about consumer topics at&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/">consumer.ftc.gov</a>, or report fraud, scams, and bad business practices at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>. Follow the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected/social-media">FTC on social media</a>, read&nbsp;<a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/consumer-alerts">consumer alerts</a>&nbsp;and the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/business-guidance/blog">business blog</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/stay-connected">sign up to get the latest FTC news and alerts</a>.

FTC takes action to stop Lyft from deceiving drivers with misleading earnings claims

Riley County Clerk Rich Vargo informed members of the County Commission Monday that as of last Saturday 6,690 people have participated in Advance In-Person voting. It continues until noon on Monday, Nov. 4. Tuesday, Oct. 29 is the last day for a ballot to be sent to you by mail.

Advance In-Person voting can be done at 110 Courthouse Plaza and in the Bluemont Room at the K-State Student Union.

Riley County Clerk Rich Vargo informed members of the County Commission Monday that as of last Saturday 6,690 people have participated in Advance In-Person voting. It continues until noon on Monday, Nov. 4. Tuesday, Oct. 29 is the last day for a ballot to be sent to you by mail.Advance In-Person voting can be done at 110 Courthouse Plaza and in the Bluemont Room at the K-State Student Union.The upcoming election is Nov. 5.

Advance In-Person voting continues in Riley County

DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement in Dickinson County are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest.

Just before 5p.m. Sunday, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office received a call for service regarding an unknown woman attempting to break into a residence in the 700 Block of Kansas 18 Highway, according to Undersheriff&nbsp;Jeff Vaughan.

 A Deputy responded and made contact with the suspect later identified as 54-year-old Denise Sheffield of Junction City, outside the residence. 

Sheffield was uncooperative and raised a fist to hit a deputy. She was quickly handcuffed at that time but continued flailing around and kicked a deputy and also refused to identify herself.

During the investigation, it was learned that Sheffield yelled profanities and threats at the resident who remained inside the house. It was also learned that Sheffield pulled up her dress and exposed herself to the resident who was watching her through a window.

Deputies booked Sheffield into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Attempted Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Threat, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730142045781.png" alt="Sheffield photo Dickinson County" />
 <figcaption>Sheffield photo Dickinson County</figcaption>
 </figure>DICKINSON COUNTY—Law enforcement in Dickinson County are investigating a suspect on multiple allegations after a weekend arrest.Just before 5p.m. Sunday, the Dickinson County Sheriff’s Office received a call for service regarding an unknown woman attempting to break into a residence in the 700 Block of Kansas 18 Highway, according to Undersheriff&nbsp;Jeff Vaughan. A Deputy responded and made contact with the suspect later identified as 54-year-old Denise Sheffield of Junction City, outside the residence. Sheffield was uncooperative and raised a fist to hit a deputy. She was quickly handcuffed at that time but continued flailing around and kicked a deputy and also refused to identify herself.During the investigation, it was learned that Sheffield yelled profanities and threats at the resident who remained inside the house. It was also learned that Sheffield pulled up her dress and exposed herself to the resident who was watching her through a window.Deputies booked Sheffield into the Dickinson County Detention Facility on requested charges of Attempted Aggravated Burglary, Criminal Trespass, Disorderly Conduct, Criminal Threat, Battery on a Law Enforcement Officer and Interference with a Law Enforcement Officer.

Home burglary suspect kicked deputy, exposed herself to resident

The City of Manhattan has announced that Fremont Street has been fully reopened to through traffic.

&nbsp; Fremont Street had been closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic between 12th and 14th Streets to relocate a water main and storm sewer, rebuild the street, and add a new Flint Hills ATA bus stop.&nbsp;

The City of Manhattan has announced that Fremont Street has been fully reopened to through traffic.&nbsp; Fremont Street had been closed to vehicular and pedestrian traffic between 12th and 14th Streets to relocate a water main and storm sewer, rebuild the street, and add a new Flint Hills ATA bus stop.&nbsp;

Fremont Street reopens

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged arson.

Just before 12:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report for arson and interference with law enforcement in the 2700 block of Brookglen Circle in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp;

 A 23 -year-old man and Howie’s Recycling Center were listed as the victims when it was reported a 50-year-old woman started a fire and damaged a dumpster.

 Joanne Burnett, 50, of Manhattan was arrested for arson and interference with law enforcement. Burnett met the requirement of a $6,000 bond and&nbsp; and is no longer in custody.&nbsp;

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating a suspect for alleged arson.Just before 12:30p.m. Saturday, police filed a report for arson and interference with law enforcement in the 2700 block of Brookglen Circle in Manhattan, according to the Riley County Police Department activity report.&nbsp; A 23 -year-old man and Howie’s Recycling Center were listed as the victims when it was reported a 50-year-old woman started a fire and damaged a dumpster. Joanne Burnett, 50, of Manhattan was arrested for arson and interference with law enforcement. Burnett met the requirement of a $6,000 bond and&nbsp; and is no longer in custody.&nbsp;

Manhattan woman accused of starting a fire

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged aggravated child endangerment in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 19-year-old woman and a 25-year-old woman left a 1-year-old boy&nbsp; unattended at a residence. 

Police arrested Madyson Green, 19 and&nbsp;Alisia Green, 25, both of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated child endangerment.&nbsp;

They both remain in custody on bonds of $6,000 each.

RILEY COUNTY —Law enforcement are investigating alleged aggravated child endangerment in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report, a 19-year-old woman and a 25-year-old woman left a 1-year-old boy&nbsp; unattended at a residence. Police arrested Madyson Green, 19 and&nbsp;Alisia Green, 25, both of Manhattan on requested charges of aggravated child endangerment.&nbsp;They both remain in custody on bonds of $6,000 each.

RCPD: 2 Manhattan women left a 1-year-old home alone

RILEY COUNTY—A teen bicyclist was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Manhattan.

According to the Riley County Police Department activity report a 2015 Honda Accord driven by a 15-year-old boy struck a 16-year-old pedestrian on a bicycle near the intersection of Lee Street and Anderson Avenue.

&nbsp; EMS transported the pedestrian went to Via Christi for treatment of his injuries. The accident remains under investigation.

RILEY COUNTY—A teen bicyclist was injured in an accident just after 7:30a.m. Friday in Manhattan.According to the Riley County Police Department activity report a 2015 Honda Accord driven by a 15-year-old boy struck a 16-year-old pedestrian on a bicycle near the intersection of Lee Street and Anderson Avenue.&nbsp; EMS transported the pedestrian went to Via Christi for treatment of his injuries. The accident remains under investigation.

Teen bicyclist struck by car in Manhattan

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730124268694.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report Oct. 28

Put safety first when getting into a vehicle and participate in Buckle Up Phone Down (BUPD) Day, recognized across the country on Oct. 30. The Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero (DTZ) Coalition challenge all travelers to ditch distractions and focus on safety.

Drivers will see increased enforcement of seat belt and child restraint usage as well as texting laws across the state as law enforcement officials are partnering in this effort. The goal is to bring awareness to these two simple actions – buckling up and putting the phone down – to help reduce traffic fatalities.

“I’m asking all Kansans to join me in this special day. This simple reminder is something we can all do and should continue to do,” said KDOT Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “Buckle up, put the phone down. Every trip. Every time.”

In Kansas, 387 people died in crashes in 2023. According to KDOT stats, 134 were not belted or restrained.

“These numbers are concerning. All passengers should be buckled up and children should be properly restrained in car seats,” said Secretary Reed. “It only takes a few moments to make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, then put the phone away. It’s the most effective thing you can do to prevent injury in a traffic crash.”

Distracted driving is another problem throughout the state. Last year there were nearly 14,000 crashes involving distracted driving. Driving while using cell phones, eating, reading, applying makeup or distractions from others in the vehicle resulted in more than 300 serious injuries and 99 fatalities.

The DTZ Coalition and KDOT take part in safety education campaigns throughout the year to encourage everyone to actively support these lifesaving messages. Follow KDOT social media and join the BUPD promotion by using hashtags #BUPD and #BUPDDay.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730127234720.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>SubmittedPut safety first when getting into a vehicle and participate in Buckle Up Phone Down (BUPD) Day, recognized across the country on Oct. 30. The Kansas Department of Transportation and the Drive To Zero (DTZ) Coalition challenge all travelers to ditch distractions and focus on safety.Drivers will see increased enforcement of seat belt and child restraint usage as well as texting laws across the state as law enforcement officials are partnering in this effort. The goal is to bring awareness to these two simple actions – buckling up and putting the phone down – to help reduce traffic fatalities.“I’m asking all Kansans to join me in this special day. This simple reminder is something we can all do and should continue to do,” said KDOT Transportation Secretary Calvin Reed. “Buckle up, put the phone down. Every trip. Every time.”In Kansas, 387 people died in crashes in 2023. According to KDOT stats, 134 were not belted or restrained.“These numbers are concerning. All passengers should be buckled up and children should be properly restrained in car seats,” said Secretary Reed. “It only takes a few moments to make sure everyone in the vehicle is properly restrained, then put the phone away. It’s the most effective thing you can do to prevent injury in a traffic crash.”Distracted driving is another problem throughout the state. Last year there were nearly 14,000 crashes involving distracted driving. Driving while using cell phones, eating, reading, applying makeup or distractions from others in the vehicle resulted in more than 300 serious injuries and 99 fatalities.The DTZ Coalition and KDOT take part in safety education campaigns throughout the year to encourage everyone to actively support these lifesaving messages. Follow KDOT social media and join the BUPD promotion by using hashtags #BUPD and #BUPDDay.

KDOT: Safety first in vehicles: Buckle up, phone down

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1730047369319.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report Oct. 27

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a new Youth Leadership Manhattan program to cultivate the next generation of business and community leaders in the Manhattan area. This initiative builds upon the success of the Chamber's&nbsp;<a href="https://url.avanan.click/v2/r01/___https:/manhattanareachamberofcommerceks.growthzoneapp.com/ap/r/bad39158cc0a41ef90514c019e17c3bb___.YXAzOm1hbmhhdHRhbmNoYW1iZXI6YTpvOjg2ODFlN2M5YjFjNGNkMTUxZTIyNzY5OGNmMzliMmJiOjc6MWNiMjpkMjQzYzYyOWQ2NjM4YzM0MTUzNDRhZWMwMmM5ZTZmOWY2M2YyMmVjZDQ5YjE3Yzg0YTIyY2NkYjg3MzJmOGEwOmg6VDpO">Leadership Manhattan</a>&nbsp;program for professionals, extending similar opportunities to high school sophomores.

The mission of the program is to ensure the vitality of the community by creating a pipeline of skilled, motivated, and community-minded young leaders who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the workforce, engage actively in civic affairs, and drive positive change in the Manhattan community. The Chamber’s goal is to showcase various educational and career opportunities to the students in hopes that they consider the Manhattan region as a place to grow personally and professionally in the future.

Participants will engage in various real-world experiences, including workshops, site visits to local businesses, and community service projects.&nbsp;

For more information or to have students apply for the program, please visit the&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://url.avanan.click/v2/r01/___https:/manhattanareachamberofcommerceks.growthzoneapp.com/ap/r/8756140747e245d8aed702adab341009___.YXAzOm1hbmhhdHRhbmNoYW1iZXI6YTpvOjg2ODFlN2M5YjFjNGNkMTUxZTIyNzY5OGNmMzliMmJiOjc6OTJlMDoxN2ZhNzg5YjAyZjViNDRjMWQ4MDY1NjI5NDQ3ODcxZjBiMGZjZmQxNmZkYzAwM2JjYmMzYzI3Y2RkNjQyZmRjOmg6VDpO" target="_blank">website</a>.

The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has launched a new Youth Leadership Manhattan program to cultivate the next generation of business and community leaders in the Manhattan area. This initiative builds upon the success of the Chamber's&nbsp;<a href="https://url.avanan.click/v2/r01/___https:/manhattanareachamberofcommerceks.growthzoneapp.com/ap/r/bad39158cc0a41ef90514c019e17c3bb___.YXAzOm1hbmhhdHRhbmNoYW1iZXI6YTpvOjg2ODFlN2M5YjFjNGNkMTUxZTIyNzY5OGNmMzliMmJiOjc6MWNiMjpkMjQzYzYyOWQ2NjM4YzM0MTUzNDRhZWMwMmM5ZTZmOWY2M2YyMmVjZDQ5YjE3Yzg0YTIyY2NkYjg3MzJmOGEwOmg6VDpO">Leadership Manhattan</a>&nbsp;program for professionals, extending similar opportunities to high school sophomores.The mission of the program is to ensure the vitality of the community by creating a pipeline of skilled, motivated, and community-minded young leaders who are ready to contribute meaningfully to the workforce, engage actively in civic affairs, and drive positive change in the Manhattan community. The Chamber’s goal is to showcase various educational and career opportunities to the students in hopes that they consider the Manhattan region as a place to grow personally and professionally in the future.Participants will engage in various real-world experiences, including workshops, site visits to local businesses, and community service projects.&nbsp;For more information or to have students apply for the program, please visit the&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://url.avanan.click/v2/r01/___https:/manhattanareachamberofcommerceks.growthzoneapp.com/ap/r/8756140747e245d8aed702adab341009___.YXAzOm1hbmhhdHRhbmNoYW1iZXI6YTpvOjg2ODFlN2M5YjFjNGNkMTUxZTIyNzY5OGNmMzliMmJiOjc6OTJlMDoxN2ZhNzg5YjAyZjViNDRjMWQ4MDY1NjI5NDQ3ODcxZjBiMGZjZmQxNmZkYzAwM2JjYmMzYzI3Y2RkNjQyZmRjOmg6VDpO" target="_blank">website</a>.

Chamber begins a new youth leadership program

Operation Santa Claus provides toys and gifts for needy children during the holiday season. Those attending a Military Affairs Council meeting in Junction City on Thursday earned that this is the 40th year for the program on Fort Riley. Soldiers with the rank of E-5 and below and their families are served.

One year ago approximately 800 families were served by the program.

Operation Santa Claus provides toys and gifts for needy children during the holiday season. Those attending a Military Affairs Council meeting in Junction City on Thursday earned that this is the 40th year for the program on Fort Riley. Soldiers with the rank of E-5 and below and their families are served.One year ago approximately 800 families were served by the program.

Operation Santa Claus prepares for a new year

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.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729955110744.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Riley County Arrest Report Oct. 26

BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Two former educators who are vying for a Manhattan-area state Senate seat are drawing lines in the sand on religion and partisan politics ahead of the Nov. 5 election.

Incumbent Sen. Usha Reddi, a Democrat and former school teacher, faces a challenge from Republican Brad Starnes, a former district superintendent. In the undercurrent of their race is an effort by Democrats&nbsp; to break Republican supermajorities in the Kansas House and Senate. A Republican hasn’t won the 22nd District seat in Riley County since 2008.

Reddi has expressed concerns about Starnes’ stance on the separation of church and state. He said at a recent forum “there is no such thing in the law.”

“At every forum and discussion, the topic of public education and school vouchers comes up,” Reddi told Kansas Reflector. “One of my concerns is my opponent’s stance on the separation of church and state. He denies this principle, which raises serious questions about the kind of policies he would promote.”

She suggested Starnes would prioritize “his personal beliefs over the constitution” as a decision-maker.

Those are pure speculations, Starnes told Kansas Reflector.

“The bottom line is I’m a constitutionalist,” he said.

He said no state should dictate what religion ought to be practiced or how and where someone should worship, which is guaranteed by the First Amendment. Instead, he sees the topic of religion in campaign conversations as a way to “educate people about their constitutional rights,” he said.

However, he added the United States is “founded on Judeo-Christian values. We pledge allegiance to the republic under God.”

While superintendent of Wabaunsee public schools, Starnes supported a program focused on religion in education. The RESPECT&nbsp;<a href="https://whschargercom.wordpress.com/2022/05/10/329-board-approves-staff-changes-6th-grade-sports-respect-program/" target="_blank">project</a>, which stands for Religious Expression Supports Positive Equity-Centered Teaching, was aimed at educating teachers and students about their First Amendment right to freedom of religion, Starnes said.

Reddi called out the project as problematic at an Oct. 9 candidate debate at Kansas State University.

“My concern is this blurs the lines between separation of church especially when there are private schools and churches that are set up for this purpose,” she wrote in an email.

Reddi, a Hindu, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article234491367.html" target="_blank">Kansas City Star in 2019</a>&nbsp;that religion rarely came up in her campaign for Manhattan City Commission. Now, as she seeks to retain her state senate seat, religion and the separation of church and state have differentiated her and her opponent.

Reddi was an Ogden Elementary School teacher. She was first elected to the city commission in 2013. She served as Manhattan’s mayor between 2016 and 2017 and again in 2020 before unsuccessfully seeking the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. She was appointed to the Riley County district seat in the Kansas Senate in 2023 after her predecessor, Tom Hawk, retired on the first day of the session.&nbsp;

In the 2024 session, Reddi co-sponsored a bill to abolish the death penalty and a bill to allow local governments to set their own minimum wage rates, both of which died in committee. She has promised to support Medicaid expansion if reelected.

Starnes, who is active in K-State’s Catholic student center, was the superintendent of the Wabaunsee Unified School District 329 from 2015 until 2022 after serving as superintendent of Riley County Unified School District 328. He lost a 2022 primary bid for the district’s House seat. He has said he’s in favor of less government and more local control.

He and Reddi have both made promises on the campaign trail to fully fund public schools and defend abortion. Starnes also said he supports “school choice” but is against tax dollars following students from public to private schools.&nbsp;

Starnes said in an interview Republicans and Democrats can often agree on 60-80% of issues.&nbsp;

“We’re so caught in these political gains,” he said. “We’ve got to move things forward.”&nbsp;

If Reddi retains her seat, Democrats could break the veto-proof Republican supermajority in the Senate by flipping three other districts. Starnes said retaining the Republican supermajority has been on the back of his mind but that he is focused on “running to help people.”

Reddi said breaking the supermajority ensures “good governance.”&nbsp;

“If the supermajority remains intact, we are likely to see more&nbsp;extreme legislation, including expanded voucher programs that undermine public education, zero corporate income tax, blocked Medicaid expansion, and additional restrictions on women’s health care,” she said. “Without the need to work across the aisle, the majority party would have little incentive to compromise, making it difficult to stop harmful legislation.“

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2024/10/1729943477064.jpeg" alt="Sen. Usha Reddi, D-Manhattan, talks with Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, left, and Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, on Jan. 17, 2024, on the Senate floor. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Usha Reddi, D-Manhattan, talks with Sen. Jeff Pittman, D-Leavenworth, left, and Sen. Ethan Corson, D-Fairway, on Jan. 17, 2024, on the Senate floor. (Sherman Smith/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>BY:&nbsp;<a href="https://kansasreflector.com/author/akaminski/">ANNA KAMINSKI</a> <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Two former educators who are vying for a Manhattan-area state Senate seat are drawing lines in the sand on religion and partisan politics ahead of the Nov. 5 election.Incumbent Sen. Usha Reddi, a Democrat and former school teacher, faces a challenge from Republican Brad Starnes, a former district superintendent. In the undercurrent of their race is an effort by Democrats&nbsp; to break Republican supermajorities in the Kansas House and Senate. A Republican hasn’t won the 22nd District seat in Riley County since 2008.Reddi has expressed concerns about Starnes’ stance on the separation of church and state. He said at a recent forum “there is no such thing in the law.”“At every forum and discussion, the topic of public education and school vouchers comes up,” Reddi told Kansas Reflector. “One of my concerns is my opponent’s stance on the separation of church and state. He denies this principle, which raises serious questions about the kind of policies he would promote.”She suggested Starnes would prioritize “his personal beliefs over the constitution” as a decision-maker.Those are pure speculations, Starnes told Kansas Reflector.“The bottom line is I’m a constitutionalist,” he said.He said no state should dictate what religion ought to be practiced or how and where someone should worship, which is guaranteed by the First Amendment. Instead, he sees the topic of religion in campaign conversations as a way to “educate people about their constitutional rights,” he said.However, he added the United States is “founded on Judeo-Christian values. We pledge allegiance to the republic under God.”While superintendent of Wabaunsee public schools, Starnes supported a program focused on religion in education. The RESPECT&nbsp;<a href="https://whschargercom.wordpress.com/2022/05/10/329-board-approves-staff-changes-6th-grade-sports-respect-program/" target="_blank">project</a>, which stands for Religious Expression Supports Positive Equity-Centered Teaching, was aimed at educating teachers and students about their First Amendment right to freedom of religion, Starnes said.Reddi called out the project as problematic at an Oct. 9 candidate debate at Kansas State University.“My concern is this blurs the lines between separation of church especially when there are private schools and churches that are set up for this purpose,” she wrote in an email.Reddi, a Hindu, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/news/politics-government/article234491367.html" target="_blank">Kansas City Star in 2019</a>&nbsp;that religion rarely came up in her campaign for Manhattan City Commission. Now, as she seeks to retain her state senate seat, religion and the separation of church and state have differentiated her and her opponent.Reddi was an Ogden Elementary School teacher. She was first elected to the city commission in 2013. She served as Manhattan’s mayor between 2016 and 2017 and again in 2020 before unsuccessfully seeking the Democratic nomination for the U.S. Senate. She was appointed to the Riley County district seat in the Kansas Senate in 2023 after her predecessor, Tom Hawk, retired on the first day of the session.&nbsp;In the 2024 session, Reddi co-sponsored a bill to abolish the death penalty and a bill to allow local governments to set their own minimum wage rates, both of which died in committee. She has promised to support Medicaid expansion if reelected.Starnes, who is active in K-State’s Catholic student center, was the superintendent of the Wabaunsee Unified School District 329 from 2015 until 2022 after serving as superintendent of Riley County Unified School District 328. He lost a 2022 primary bid for the district’s House seat. He has said he’s in favor of less government and more local control.He and Reddi have both made promises on the campaign trail to fully fund public schools and defend abortion. Starnes also said he supports “school choice” but is against tax dollars following students from public to private schools.&nbsp;Starnes said in an interview Republicans and Democrats can often agree on 60-80% of issues.&nbsp;“We’re so caught in these political gains,” he said. “We’ve got to move things forward.”&nbsp;If Reddi retains her seat, Democrats could break the veto-proof Republican supermajority in the Senate by flipping three other districts. Starnes said retaining the Republican supermajority has been on the back of his mind but that he is focused on “running to help people.”Reddi said breaking the supermajority ensures “good governance.”&nbsp;“If the supermajority remains intact, we are likely to see more&nbsp;extreme legislation, including expanded voucher programs that undermine public education, zero corporate income tax, blocked Medicaid expansion, and additional restrictions on women’s health care,” she said. “Without the need to work across the aisle, the majority party would have little incentive to compromise, making it difficult to stop harmful legislation.“

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