By LESLEY FAIR Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTC

There’s a new coronavirus-related scam making the rounds, but this time the crooks are targeting small businesses. 

It starts with an email that claims to come from the “Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance.” It says you’re eligible for a loan of up to $250,000 and asks for personal information like birth date and Social Security number. 

Let’s do a CSI-style investigation to spot clues that the email is a fake.

Clue No. 1.&nbsp;You got an email or phone call out of the blue that claims to be from the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or – in this case – the Small Business Administration. The FTC has warned about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0048-government-imposter-scams">government imposter scams&nbsp;</a>like this.

Clue No. 2. You were told that you’re automatically eligible for a big loan. Real lenders never do this.

Clue No. 3. You’re asked to hand over your date of birth and Social Security number. This is a tip-off that the sender is trying to steal your personal information.

Phishing attempts aren’t the only scam that business owners are reporting. We’ve heard from people who have applied for loans through websites pretending to be part of the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, which has been extended to December 31, 2021. And other people report they’ve been contacted to repay loans they never took out. The likely culprits? Criminals who illegally applied for loans in their name.

Here are steps you can take to help protect yourself.

Check your credit report.&nbsp;The worst time to learn that someone has taken out a loan in your name is when you’re applying for a loan yourself. So check your credit report first at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.annualcreditreport.com/">www.annualcreditreport.com</a>, the authorized source for the free reports consumers are guaranteed by law. In addition, the three major credit bureaus are offering free weekly online reports to consumers through April 2021. If you’re not in the market for credit or a loan,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0497-credit-freeze-faqs">freezing your credit&nbsp;</a>offers an extra – and free – measure of protection.

Look for reliable sources of information. Looking for a loan? Don’t click on a link in an unsolicited email and be careful with online search engine results. Scammers often bait their online traps with sound-alike names and URLs, phony endorsements, and professional-looking websites. For small business owners looking for COVID-relief programs, always start at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sba.gov/">www.sba.gov</a>, the official site of the Small Business Administration. Or reach out to a trusted financial institution in your community.

Check out lenders before sharing personal information.&nbsp;Scammers who impersonate lenders have the perfect excuse to ask you for lots of personal information that can be used to steal your identity. Don’t leave a trail of personal information exposed by filling out lots of applications online with lenders you don’t know. Investigate lenders first and if you spot something amiss, stop. And then file a report at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/01/target-new-covid-scam-small-business-owners?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.&nbsp;

By LESLEY FAIR Attorney, Division of Consumer and Business Education, FTCThere’s a new coronavirus-related scam making the rounds, but this time the crooks are targeting small businesses. It starts with an email that claims to come from the “Small Business Administration Office of Disaster Assistance.” It says you’re eligible for a loan of up to $250,000 and asks for personal information like birth date and Social Security number. Let’s do a CSI-style investigation to spot clues that the email is a fake.Clue No. 1.&nbsp;You got an email or phone call out of the blue that claims to be from the IRS, the Social Security Administration, or – in this case – the Small Business Administration. The FTC has warned about&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0048-government-imposter-scams">government imposter scams&nbsp;</a>like this.Clue No. 2. You were told that you’re automatically eligible for a big loan. Real lenders never do this.Clue No. 3. You’re asked to hand over your date of birth and Social Security number. This is a tip-off that the sender is trying to steal your personal information.Phishing attempts aren’t the only scam that business owners are reporting. We’ve heard from people who have applied for loans through websites pretending to be part of the SBA’s Economic Injury Disaster Loan program, which has been extended to December 31, 2021. And other people report they’ve been contacted to repay loans they never took out. The likely culprits? Criminals who illegally applied for loans in their name.Here are steps you can take to help protect yourself.Check your credit report.&nbsp;The worst time to learn that someone has taken out a loan in your name is when you’re applying for a loan yourself. So check your credit report first at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.annualcreditreport.com/">www.annualcreditreport.com</a>, the authorized source for the free reports consumers are guaranteed by law. In addition, the three major credit bureaus are offering free weekly online reports to consumers through April 2021. If you’re not in the market for credit or a loan,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/articles/0497-credit-freeze-faqs">freezing your credit&nbsp;</a>offers an extra – and free – measure of protection.Look for reliable sources of information. Looking for a loan? Don’t click on a link in an unsolicited email and be careful with online search engine results. Scammers often bait their online traps with sound-alike names and URLs, phony endorsements, and professional-looking websites. For small business owners looking for COVID-relief programs, always start at&nbsp;<a href="http://www.sba.gov/">www.sba.gov</a>, the official site of the Small Business Administration. Or reach out to a trusted financial institution in your community.Check out lenders before sharing personal information.&nbsp;Scammers who impersonate lenders have the perfect excuse to ask you for lots of personal information that can be used to steal your identity. Don’t leave a trail of personal information exposed by filling out lots of applications online with lenders you don’t know. Investigate lenders first and if you spot something amiss, stop. And then file a report at&nbsp;<a href="https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/">ReportFraud.ftc.gov</a>.&nbsp;&nbsp;The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/01/target-new-covid-scam-small-business-owners?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Small business owners are target for new COVID scam

By MILES PLANT Attorney, FTC

New health apps are popping up every day, promising to help you track your health conditions, count your calories, manage your medications, or predict your ovulation. These apps often ask for some of your most sensitive personal information, like your health history, medication list, or whether you have ever suffered a miscarriage.

Some apps use that sensitive information only to give you services. But others may use it for their own research, to target you with ads, or disclose — or even sell — your data to other companies. And, unlike your doctor, these apps may not be covered by health privacy laws like HIPAA.

For example, Flo is a health app that functions as an ovulation calendar, period tracker, and pregnancy guide. In a settlement announced today, the <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/01/developer-popular-womens-fertility-tracking-app-settles-ftc">FTC said that the makers of the Flo app </a>shared users’ personal health information with marketing and analytics companies like Facebook and Google — even though it had promised users to keep this sensitive information private. As part of the settlement, Flo Health, Inc. has agreed to get users’ consent before it can share their information in the future. The settlement also requires Flo to get an outside review of the honesty of its privacy promises.

How can you avoid the risks associated with these types of health apps? Here are some things to consider:

●Compare privacy protections.&nbsp;Many competing health apps offer similar services. When choosing between apps, compare their privacy protections. Look for a privacy notice that explains in simple terms what health information the app collects from you, as well as how it uses and shares your information with other companies and users. If the app shares your information, does it tell you why, and does it limit what others can do with it?

●Take control of your sensitive information.&nbsp;Take a look at the app’s settings to see if it gives you control over what health information it collects and shares. An app’s default settings often encourage sharing, so it can be useful to select more protective options.

●Keep your app up to date.&nbsp;App updates sometimes include important fixes for privacy or security glitches. One of the best ways to protect your information is to keep your app (and your phone’s operating system) up to date.

●Recognize the risks.&nbsp;What sensitive information will the app have access to? Are the app’s services worth the risk of someone else getting hold of that? Some companies don’t uphold their privacy promises. In this case, we said that even if you reviewed Flo’s privacy promises and looked at the settings, your information could still have been disclosed to other companies. Sharing sensitive information always carries risks, so be sure you’re comfortable with what you’ve shared, in case privacy promises aren’t kept.

●Report your concerns.&nbsp;If you think a health app isn’t keeping up its end of the bargain,&nbsp;let the FTC know. The FTC regularly brings enforcement actions against companies that misrepresent how they use or disclose people’s sensitive health information.

The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/01/does-your-health-app-protect-your-sensitive-info?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610559159158.png" alt="Image courtesy FTC" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FTC</figcaption>
 </figure>By MILES PLANT Attorney, FTCNew health apps are popping up every day, promising to help you track your health conditions, count your calories, manage your medications, or predict your ovulation. These apps often ask for some of your most sensitive personal information, like your health history, medication list, or whether you have ever suffered a miscarriage.Some apps use that sensitive information only to give you services. But others may use it for their own research, to target you with ads, or disclose — or even sell — your data to other companies. And, unlike your doctor, these apps may not be covered by health privacy laws like HIPAA.For example, Flo is a health app that functions as an ovulation calendar, period tracker, and pregnancy guide. In a settlement announced today, the <a href="https://www.ftc.gov/news-events/press-releases/2021/01/developer-popular-womens-fertility-tracking-app-settles-ftc">FTC said that the makers of the Flo app </a>shared users’ personal health information with marketing and analytics companies like Facebook and Google — even though it had promised users to keep this sensitive information private. As part of the settlement, Flo Health, Inc. has agreed to get users’ consent before it can share their information in the future. The settlement also requires Flo to get an outside review of the honesty of its privacy promises.How can you avoid the risks associated with these types of health apps? Here are some things to consider:●Compare privacy protections.&nbsp;Many competing health apps offer similar services. When choosing between apps, compare their privacy protections. Look for a privacy notice that explains in simple terms what health information the app collects from you, as well as how it uses and shares your information with other companies and users. If the app shares your information, does it tell you why, and does it limit what others can do with it?●Take control of your sensitive information.&nbsp;Take a look at the app’s settings to see if it gives you control over what health information it collects and shares. An app’s default settings often encourage sharing, so it can be useful to select more protective options.●Keep your app up to date.&nbsp;App updates sometimes include important fixes for privacy or security glitches. One of the best ways to protect your information is to keep your app (and your phone’s operating system) up to date.●Recognize the risks.&nbsp;What sensitive information will the app have access to? Are the app’s services worth the risk of someone else getting hold of that? Some companies don’t uphold their privacy promises. In this case, we said that even if you reviewed Flo’s privacy promises and looked at the settings, your information could still have been disclosed to other companies. Sharing sensitive information always carries risks, so be sure you’re comfortable with what you’ve shared, in case privacy promises aren’t kept.●Report your concerns.&nbsp;If you think a health app isn’t keeping up its end of the bargain,&nbsp;let the FTC know. The FTC regularly brings enforcement actions against companies that misrepresent how they use or disclose people’s sensitive health information.The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2021/01/does-your-health-app-protect-your-sensitive-info?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.&nbsp;

FTC: Does your health app protect your sensitive info?

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159223758558140%2F&width=500&show_text=true&height=658&appId" width="500" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

See what's new at the Salina Public Library

Salina Public Library has something special planned for the new year—the 2021 Reading Challenge! 

According to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary">library's Facebook page</a>, the 2021 Reading Challenge is a library program that encourages people to read books from different categories to discuss as a group. Each month has a challenge that is wrapped up the last Tuesday of each month with a book discussion.

Recommendations for each challenge are available at <a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/readingchallenge?fbclid=IwAR0MxFb03vj7fk_nPHnMZNADH3KXNv7tn-OeQUO-zC-mOWcrJ9K2xmZD5BU" target="_blank">salinapubliclibrary.org/readingchallenge</a>.

January's challenge is to read a book set in a different country.

Participants will qualify for monthly prize drawings with a grand prize drawing at the end of the year. Participants can also review the books they've read for a chance to win.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1609551960036.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy Salina Public Library" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Salina Public Library</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Public Library has something special planned for the new year—the 2021 Reading Challenge! According to information on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary">library's Facebook page</a>, the 2021 Reading Challenge is a library program that encourages people to read books from different categories to discuss as a group. Each month has a challenge that is wrapped up the last Tuesday of each month with a book discussion. Recommendations for each challenge are available at <a href="http://salinapubliclibrary.org/readingchallenge?fbclid=IwAR0MxFb03vj7fk_nPHnMZNADH3KXNv7tn-OeQUO-zC-mOWcrJ9K2xmZD5BU" target="_blank">salinapubliclibrary.org/readingchallenge</a>. January's challenge is to read a book set in a different country.Participants will qualify for monthly prize drawings with a grand prize drawing at the end of the year. Participants can also review the books they've read for a chance to win.&nbsp;

Library announces 2021 Reading Challenge

WASHINGTON – Today, the Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department will begin delivering a second round of Economic Impact Payments as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 to millions of Americans who received the first round of payments earlier this year. The initial direct deposit payments may begin arriving as early as tonight for some and will continue into next week. Paper checks will begin to be mailed tomorrow (Wednesday, Dec. 30). The IRS emphasizes that there is no action required by eligible individuals to receive this second payment. Some Americans may see the direct deposit payments as pending or as provisional payments in their accounts before the official payment date of Jan. 4, 2021. The IRS reminds taxpayers that the payments are automatic, and they should not contact their financial institutions or the IRS with payment timing questions. As with the first round of payments under the CARES Act, most recipients will receive these payments by direct deposit. For Social Security and other beneficiaries who received the first round of payments via Direct Express, they will receive this second payment the same way. Anyone who received the first round of payments earlier this year but doesn’t receive a payment via direct deposit will generally receive a check or, in some instances, a debit card. For those in this category, the payments will conclude in January. If additional legislation is enacted to provide for an additional amount, the Economic Impact Payments that have been issued will be topped up as quickly as possible. Eligible individuals who did not receive an Economic Impact Payment this year – either the first or the second payment – will be able to claim it when they file their 2020 taxes in 2021. The IRS urges taxpayers who didn’t receive a payment this year to review the eligibility criteria when they file their 2020 taxes; many people, including recent college graduates, may be eligible to claim it. People will see the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) referred to as the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR since the EIPs are an advance payment of the RRC. “Throughout this challenging year, the IRS has worked around the clock to provide Economic Impact Payments and critical taxpayer services to the American people,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “We are working swiftly to distribute this second round of payments as quickly as possible. This work continues throughout the holidays and into the new year as we prepare for the upcoming filing season. We urge everyone to visit IRS.gov in the coming days for the latest information on these payments and for important information and assistance with filing their 2021 taxes.” Authorized by the newly enacted COVID-relief legislation, the second round of payments, or “EIP 2,” is generally $600 for singles and $1,200 for married couples filing a joint return. In addition, those with qualifying children will also receive $600 for each qualifying child. Dependents who are 17 and older are not eligible for the child payment. Payments are automatic for eligible taxpayers Payments are automatic for eligible taxpayers who filed a 2019 tax return, those who receive Social Security retirement, survivor or disability benefits (SSDI), Railroad Retirement benefits as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries who didn’t file a tax return. Payments are also automatic for anyone who successfully registered for the first payment online at IRS.gov using the agency’s Non-Filers tool by Nov. 21, 2020 or who submitted a simplified tax return that has been processed by the IRS. Who is eligible for the second Economic Impact Payment? Generally, U.S. citizens and resident aliens who are not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s income tax return are eligible for this second payment. Eligible individuals will automatically receive an Economic Impact Payment of up to $600 for individuals or $1,200 for married couples and up to $600 for each qualifying child. Generally, if you have adjusted gross income for 2019 up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns and surviving spouses, you will receive the full amount of the second payment. For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced.

How do I find out if the IRS is sending me a payment? People can check the status of both their first and second payments by using the Get My Payment tool, available in English and Spanish only on IRS.gov. The tool is being updated with new information, and the IRS anticipates the tool will be available again in a few days for taxpayers.

How will the IRS know where to send my payment? What if I changed bank accounts? The IRS will use the data already in our systems to send the new payments. Taxpayers with direct deposit information on file will receive the payment that way. For those without current direct deposit information on file, they will receive the payment as a check or debit card in the mail. For those eligible but who don’t receive the payment for any reason, it can be claimed by filing a 2020 tax return in 2021. Remember, the Economic Impact Payments are an advance payment of what will be called the Recovery Rebate Credit on the 2020 Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR.

Will people receive a paper check or a debit card? For those who don’t receive a direct deposit by early January, they should watch their mail for either a paper check or a debit card. To speed delivery of the payments to reach as many people as soon as possible, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service, part of the Treasury Department, will be sending a limited number of payments out by debit card. Please note that the form of payment for the second mailed EIP may be different than for the first mailed EIP. Some people who received a paper check last time might receive a debit card this time, and some people who received a debit card last time may receive a paper check. IRS and Treasury urge eligible people who don’t receive a direct deposit to watch their mail carefully during this period for a check or an Economic Impact Payment card, which is sponsored by the Treasury Department’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service and is issued by Treasury’s financial agent, MetaBank®, N.A. The Economic Impact Payment Card will be sent in a white envelope that prominently displays the U.S. Department of the Treasury seal. It has the Visa name on the front of the Card and the issuing bank, MetaBank®, N.A. on the back of the card. Information included with the card will explain that this is your Economic Impact Payment. More information about these cards is available at EIPcard.com. Are more people eligible now for a payment than before? Under the earlier CARES Act, joint returns of couples where only one member of the couple had a Social Security number were generally ineligible for a payment – unless they were a member of the military. But this month’s new law changes and expands that provision, and more people are now eligible. In this situation, these families will now be eligible to receive payments for the taxpayers and qualifying children of the family who have work-eligible SSNs. People in this group who don’t receive an Economic Impact Payment can claim this when they file their 2020 taxes under the Recovery Rebate Credit. Is any action needed by Social Security beneficiaries, railroad retirees and those receiving veterans’ benefits who are not typically required to file a tax return? Most Social Security retirement and disability beneficiaries, railroad retirees and those receiving veterans’ benefits do not need take any action to receive a payment. Earlier this year, the IRS worked directly with the relevant federal agencies to obtain the information needed to send out the new payments the same way benefits for this group are normally paid. For eligible people in this group who didn’t receive a payment for any reason, they can file a 2020 tax return. I didn’t file a tax return and didn’t register with the IRS.gov non-filers tool. Am I eligible for a payment? Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirement. While you won’t receive an automatic payment now, you can still claim the equivalent Recovery Rebate Credit when you file your 2020 federal income tax return.

Will I receive anything for my tax records showing I received a second Economic Impact Payment? Yes. People will receive an IRS notice, or letter, after they receive a payment telling them the amount of their payment. They should keep this for their tax records.

Where can I get more information? For more information about Economic Impact Payments and the 2020 Recovery Rebate, key information will be posted on <a href="http://IRS.gov/eip">IRS.gov/eip</a>. Later this week, you may check the status of your payment at <a href="http://IRS.gov/GetMyPayment">IRS.gov/GetMyPayment</a>. For other COVID-19-related tax relief, visit <a href="http://IRS.gov/Coronavirus">IRS.gov/Coronavirus</a>.

WASHINGTON – Today, the Internal Revenue Service and the Treasury Department will begin delivering a second round of Economic Impact Payments as part of the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2021 to millions of Americans who received the first round of payments earlier this year. The initial direct deposit payments may begin arriving as early as tonight for some and will continue into next week. Paper checks will begin to be mailed tomorrow (Wednesday, Dec. 30). The IRS emphasizes that there is no action required by eligible individuals to receive this second payment. Some Americans may see the direct deposit payments as pending or as provisional payments in their accounts before the official payment date of Jan. 4, 2021. The IRS reminds taxpayers that the payments are automatic, and they should not contact their financial institutions or the IRS with payment timing questions. As with the first round of payments under the CARES Act, most recipients will receive these payments by direct deposit. For Social Security and other beneficiaries who received the first round of payments via Direct Express, they will receive this second payment the same way. Anyone who received the first round of payments earlier this year but doesn’t receive a payment via direct deposit will generally receive a check or, in some instances, a debit card. For those in this category, the payments will conclude in January. If additional legislation is enacted to provide for an additional amount, the Economic Impact Payments that have been issued will be topped up as quickly as possible. Eligible individuals who did not receive an Economic Impact Payment this year – either the first or the second payment – will be able to claim it when they file their 2020 taxes in 2021. The IRS urges taxpayers who didn’t receive a payment this year to review the eligibility criteria when they file their 2020 taxes; many people, including recent college graduates, may be eligible to claim it. People will see the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) referred to as the Recovery Rebate Credit (RRC) on Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR since the EIPs are an advance payment of the RRC. “Throughout this challenging year, the IRS has worked around the clock to provide Economic Impact Payments and critical taxpayer services to the American people,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “We are working swiftly to distribute this second round of payments as quickly as possible. This work continues throughout the holidays and into the new year as we prepare for the upcoming filing season. We urge everyone to visit IRS.gov in the coming days for the latest information on these payments and for important information and assistance with filing their 2021 taxes.” Authorized by the newly enacted COVID-relief legislation, the second round of payments, or “EIP 2,” is generally $600 for singles and $1,200 for married couples filing a joint return. In addition, those with qualifying children will also receive $600 for each qualifying child. Dependents who are 17 and older are not eligible for the child payment. Payments are automatic for eligible taxpayers Payments are automatic for eligible taxpayers who filed a 2019 tax return, those who receive Social Security retirement, survivor or disability benefits (SSDI), Railroad Retirement benefits as well as Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Veterans Affairs beneficiaries who didn’t file a tax return. Payments are also automatic for anyone who successfully registered for the first payment online at IRS.gov using the agency’s Non-Filers tool by Nov. 21, 2020 or who submitted a simplified tax return that has been processed by the IRS. Who is eligible for the second Economic Impact Payment? Generally, U.S. citizens and resident aliens who are not eligible to be claimed as a dependent on someone else’s income tax return are eligible for this second payment. Eligible individuals will automatically receive an Economic Impact Payment of up to $600 for individuals or $1,200 for married couples and up to $600 for each qualifying child. Generally, if you have adjusted gross income for 2019 up to $75,000 for individuals and up to $150,000 for married couples filing joint returns and surviving spouses, you will receive the full amount of the second payment. For filers with income above those amounts, the payment amount is reduced. How do I find out if the IRS is sending me a payment? People can check the status of both their first and second payments by using the Get My Payment tool, available in English and Spanish only on IRS.gov. The tool is being updated with new information, and the IRS anticipates the tool will be available again in a few days for taxpayers.How will the IRS know where to send my payment? What if I changed bank accounts? The IRS will use the data already in our systems to send the new payments. Taxpayers with direct deposit information on file will receive the payment that way. For those without current direct deposit information on file, they will receive the payment as a check or debit card in the mail. For those eligible but who don’t receive the payment for any reason, it can be claimed by filing a 2020 tax return in 2021. Remember, the Economic Impact Payments are an advance payment of what will be called the Recovery Rebate Credit on the 2020 Form 1040 or Form 1040-SR. Will people receive a paper check or a debit card? For those who don’t receive a direct deposit by early January, they should watch their mail for either a paper check or a debit card. To speed delivery of the payments to reach as many people as soon as possible, the Bureau of the Fiscal Service, part of the Treasury Department, will be sending a limited number of payments out by debit card. Please note that the form of payment for the second mailed EIP may be different than for the first mailed EIP. Some people who received a paper check last time might receive a debit card this time, and some people who received a debit card last time may receive a paper check. IRS and Treasury urge eligible people who don’t receive a direct deposit to watch their mail carefully during this period for a check or an Economic Impact Payment card, which is sponsored by the Treasury Department’s Bureau of the Fiscal Service and is issued by Treasury’s financial agent, MetaBank®, N.A. The Economic Impact Payment Card will be sent in a white envelope that prominently displays the U.S. Department of the Treasury seal. It has the Visa name on the front of the Card and the issuing bank, MetaBank®, N.A. on the back of the card. Information included with the card will explain that this is your Economic Impact Payment. More information about these cards is available at EIPcard.com. Are more people eligible now for a payment than before? Under the earlier CARES Act, joint returns of couples where only one member of the couple had a Social Security number were generally ineligible for a payment – unless they were a member of the military. But this month’s new law changes and expands that provision, and more people are now eligible. In this situation, these families will now be eligible to receive payments for the taxpayers and qualifying children of the family who have work-eligible SSNs. People in this group who don’t receive an Economic Impact Payment can claim this when they file their 2020 taxes under the Recovery Rebate Credit. Is any action needed by Social Security beneficiaries, railroad retirees and those receiving veterans’ benefits who are not typically required to file a tax return? Most Social Security retirement and disability beneficiaries, railroad retirees and those receiving veterans’ benefits do not need take any action to receive a payment. Earlier this year, the IRS worked directly with the relevant federal agencies to obtain the information needed to send out the new payments the same way benefits for this group are normally paid. For eligible people in this group who didn’t receive a payment for any reason, they can file a 2020 tax return. I didn’t file a tax return and didn’t register with the IRS.gov non-filers tool. Am I eligible for a payment? Yes, if you meet the eligibility requirement. While you won’t receive an automatic payment now, you can still claim the equivalent Recovery Rebate Credit when you file your 2020 federal income tax return.Will I receive anything for my tax records showing I received a second Economic Impact Payment? Yes. People will receive an IRS notice, or letter, after they receive a payment telling them the amount of their payment. They should keep this for their tax records.Where can I get more information? For more information about Economic Impact Payments and the 2020 Recovery Rebate, key information will be posted on <a href="http://IRS.gov/eip">IRS.gov/eip</a>. Later this week, you may check the status of your payment at <a href="http://IRS.gov/GetMyPayment">IRS.gov/GetMyPayment</a>. For other COVID-19-related tax relief, visit <a href="http://IRS.gov/Coronavirus">IRS.gov/Coronavirus</a>.--<a href="http://irs.gov">IRS</a>--

Treasury, IRS begin delivering second round of economic impact payments

Artists age 65 and older are sought for the annual Art is Ageless® juried exhibit sponsored by Salina Presbyterian Manor March 3 – 7, 2021.

The exhibit will continue the 40th anniversary of the Art is Ageless program, which produced its first calendar in 1981. This year, due to COVID-19, the exhibit will be at the Salina Art Center, 242 S. Santa Fe.

Entries of artistic works will be accepted from any area artist who is 65 years of age or older to exhibit and/or compete for an opportunity to be featured in the 2022 Art is Ageless calendar.

Artists may choose to enter works for exhibit only. For the competition, works must be completed after age 65 and have been completed in the past five years (since January 2016). There are nine categories, as well as designations of amateur or professional. Entries are due to Salina Presbyterian Manor, 2600 E. Crawford, by 5 p.m. Feb. 19. Contact Cathy Boos at 785-825-1366 to arrange a drop-off time.

The Art is Ageless® program encourages Presbyterian Manor residents and other area seniors to express their creativity through its annual competition, as well as art classes, musical and dramatic events, educational opportunities and current events discussions throughout the year.

Local competition winners will join winners from 14 other PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America) communities to be judged at the systemwide level.

Entry forms and information can be obtained by contacting Cathy Boos at 785-825-1366 or <a href="mailto:cboos@pmma.org">cboos@pmma.org</a>, or accessed online at <a href="http://ArtIsAgeless.org">ArtIsAgeless.org</a>.

Artists age 65 and older are sought for the annual Art is Ageless® juried exhibit sponsored by Salina Presbyterian Manor March 3 – 7, 2021.The exhibit will continue the 40th anniversary of the Art is Ageless program, which produced its first calendar in 1981. This year, due to COVID-19, the exhibit will be at the Salina Art Center, 242 S. Santa Fe.Entries of artistic works will be accepted from any area artist who is 65 years of age or older to exhibit and/or compete for an opportunity to be featured in the 2022 Art is Ageless calendar.Artists may choose to enter works for exhibit only. For the competition, works must be completed after age 65 and have been completed in the past five years (since January 2016). There are nine categories, as well as designations of amateur or professional. Entries are due to Salina Presbyterian Manor, 2600 E. Crawford, by 5 p.m. Feb. 19. Contact Cathy Boos at 785-825-1366 to arrange a drop-off time.The Art is Ageless® program encourages Presbyterian Manor residents and other area seniors to express their creativity through its annual competition, as well as art classes, musical and dramatic events, educational opportunities and current events discussions throughout the year.Local competition winners will join winners from 14 other PMMA (Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America) communities to be judged at the systemwide level.Entry forms and information can be obtained by contacting Cathy Boos at 785-825-1366 or <a href="mailto:cboos@pmma.org">cboos@pmma.org</a>, or accessed online at <a href="http://ArtIsAgeless.org">ArtIsAgeless.org</a>.

Art is Ageless: Call for entries; exhibit at Salina Art Center in 2021

The City of Salina has announced its locations for Christmas tree recycling.

Four park locations in Salina will accept and recycle Christmas trees into mulch through Jan. 31, 2021. The mulch will be used around newly planted trees and to surface nature trails.

Christmas trees must be free of ornaments, stands, netting and plastic bags. Yard waste will not be accepted.

Drop-off locations include the following.

For more information about Christmas tree recycling, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> or call (785) 826-7275.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1577473633457.jpeg" alt="The City of Salina is accepting Christmas trees at four locations. File photo" />
 <figcaption>The City of Salina is accepting Christmas trees at four locations. File photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The City of Salina has announced its locations for Christmas tree recycling.Four park locations in Salina will accept and recycle Christmas trees into mulch through Jan. 31, 2021. The mulch will be used around newly planted trees and to surface nature trails.Christmas trees must be free of ornaments, stands, netting and plastic bags. Yard waste will not be accepted.Drop-off locations include the following.●Lakewood Park, 1323 East Iron Avenue●Jerry Ivey Park, 2465 Edward Street●Centennial Park, 764 Commanche Avenue●Thomas Park, 1525 North Ninth Street For more information about Christmas tree recycling, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> or call (785) 826-7275.

City announces Christmas tree recycling locations

Older Kansans interested in politics and public policy issues are encouraged to register to become a candidate for the Kansas Silver Haired Legislature (KSHL).

“The KSHL is an important voice for older Kansans and caregivers as our state’s population continues to age,” said Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA). “Each year, KSHL delegates learn political processes as they identify and discuss issues, develop and craft bills and resolutions and present priority bills to Kansas Legislators.”

a. Be age 60 or over when filing for candidacy.

b. Reside in the county and/or district in which candidacy is sought.

c. Be registered to vote in the State of Kansas

d. Be willing to participate in all activities required and expected of the KSHL including attending regional and state meetings and the annual legislative session that normally occurs in Topeka the first week of October.

e. File for candidacy by obtaining, completing and returning required registration forms to their Agency on Aging. The filing deadline for the NC-FH AAA region is Feb. 12, 2021.

Registration forms and more information are available by calling the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging at 800-432-2703.

A total of 125 delegates are eligible to serve for two years in the unicameral KSHL. Those elected are responsible for meeting with older adults and caregivers in their counties/districts, attending scheduled meetings, advocating for their legislation, and testifying at hearings on KSHL legislation. Fifteen people currently serve as KSHL delegates in the NC-FH AAA region.

Older Kansans interested in politics and public policy issues are encouraged to register to become a candidate for the Kansas Silver Haired Legislature (KSHL).“The KSHL is an important voice for older Kansans and caregivers as our state’s population continues to age,” said Julie Govert Walter, executive director of the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging (NC-FH AAA). “Each year, KSHL delegates learn political processes as they identify and discuss issues, develop and craft bills and resolutions and present priority bills to Kansas Legislators.”To be eligible, a candidate must:a. Be age 60 or over when filing for candidacy.b. Reside in the county and/or district in which candidacy is sought.c. Be registered to vote in the State of Kansasd. Be willing to participate in all activities required and expected of the KSHL including attending regional and state meetings and the annual legislative session that normally occurs in Topeka the first week of October.e. File for candidacy by obtaining, completing and returning required registration forms to their Agency on Aging. The filing deadline for the NC-FH AAA region is Feb. 12, 2021.Registration forms and more information are available by calling the North Central-Flint Hills Area Agency on Aging at 800-432-2703.A total of 125 delegates are eligible to serve for two years in the unicameral KSHL. Those elected are responsible for meeting with older adults and caregivers in their counties/districts, attending scheduled meetings, advocating for their legislation, and testifying at hearings on KSHL legislation. Fifteen people currently serve as KSHL delegates in the NC-FH AAA region.

Candidates sought for Kansas Silver Haired Legislature

December may be the season of giving – but it’s typically a challenging time to collect enough blood donations. Add in a pandemic, and this year could be even tougher than usual. That’s why the American Red Cross is urging those who are feeling well to give the gift of life by&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DRMgl_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSLwOwOsEqOyh-2Bet3krA5-2Bb3XdEkmCnqh6-2FbTH4kPyJhFZEdBbD8YZ7wwayjdme-2FLaq1gmXmTyzIGEaA2QMU-2F5mkuXo3Dc6DX31xI52EUsKzhu9-2B2En9szqDoGkFZvnA8hFlPcJyqG7W0BqsJZLrgBiG9qK3yXqDEgJBEQQNPSzxA" target="_blank">donating blood</a>&nbsp;this holiday season.

The need for blood doesn’t stop for holidays. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, more than 1 million blood transfusions will be given in the United States. Donations of all blood types are needed to ensure hospital shelves remain stocked to meet patient blood needs.

Make your appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by downloading the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcW0AWgbjPlOXwDMNzvwpJqgNAEfj-2F6QzWqOUlUOFSHpwA-3D-3DDBPX_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSJ3wDqKovm9VcZ-2F5Q7EctQpUSlYOFAH84wpAloO2dDLLYltUiWLcrn-2BEgVJt9o1EooX7QGTIxGkoftOzavWpbajqPNDeC8eNDc3aTaNGx8bYTHeoKqb0RcB6vAsceoUttoKqFYqqnlbPIok1A4KlQKVGzUrgDmKBiEhBLzqnlJut" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DPrUy_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSOiPGWNpi0ntGwqPlq50UXLwVgnBcAlEtpR1owdKJMKgG9p7Qq43GBLjrwqddEAT-2FRIcMZ-2B8cTcnZiPhoYgxv2-2BKvZ8t1m-2BbmL0jUpD7XfgrNtt9LMaGTHgy-2FKhnpcKaULG4cmm-2FeipDF-2BnUWFoi0l-2Bz97vOuXiHFOXRMHIldXms" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

To encourage donations this holiday season, those who come to donate blood with the Red Cross Dec.18-Jan. 4 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.

Important COVID-19 information for donors

As COVID-19 hospitalizations increase, hospital demand for convalescent plasma has also grown. COVID-19 convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation given by those who've recovered from this coronavirus. Their plasma contains antibodies that may help patients actively fighting the virus.

The Red Cross&nbsp;is&nbsp;testing blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test may indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of whether an individual developed COVID-19 symptoms.&nbsp;Red Cross antibody tests will be helpful to identify individuals who have COVID-19 antibodies and may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions. Convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation collected from COVID-19 survivors that have antibodies that may help patients who are actively fighting the virus.

COVID-19 antibody test results will be available&nbsp;within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity.&nbsp;The Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness, referred to as a diagnostic test. To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff and donors, it is important that individuals who do not feel well or believe they may be ill with COVID-19 postpone donation.

Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcW8o7gbhRQhu3-2BrGY78VBTVSe8Uh37tl7ceXQ2Xthz-2Fsb4n5lZsZ-2BHdiarUOgYP2JxWT1Rd-2FjbStjGbij2z9PCtIHxLsrILwTuuagtQlfNWJA-3D-3DrMNQ_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSJ-2B28aPbwAv1inUJZIfCV2HuiteIVxluE0xuElPCGfg9wHdi9U5FHU0Re5vYBW5-2B-2Fwk37dyQnXng5fRp-2BQvw0CsIYEarZHVhAWPEKjQ9SUDtF54qBfnoECJnKDb-2F1mMME2npMOCn4rZ8TmS0-2Bu-2BBkurbZCsF2TSoKxjkvqv9JjgC" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.

Upcoming local and area blood donation opportunities Dec. 16-Jan. 4

12/17/2020: noon-6 p.m., Catholic Church, 307 East Fifth

12/21/2020: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., OCCK Inc, 1502 Lincoln Street

12/17/2020: 12:30-5:30 p.m., EMS/FIRE Building, 117 Star

12/16/2020: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Jewell Community Building, 214 Delaware

12/18/2020: 1:30-6 p.m., Christian Community Center, 137 N. 4th Street

12/21/2020: noon-6 p.m., Hillsboro City Hall, 118 E. Grand

12/18/2020: noon-6 p.m., St Peters United Church of Christ, 111 Pine

12/18/2020: noon-6 p.m., West Zion Church, 101 S. Washington

12/30/2020: noon-5:30 p.m., Republic County 4-H Building, 901 O Street

12/24/2020: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., The Temple, 336 South Santa Fe Avenue

12/28/2020: noon-7 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue

12/29/2020: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Choices Network, 120 West Prescott Avenue

12/29/2020: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., OCCK, 1710 West Schilling Road

12/29/2020: noon-7 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue

12/30/2020: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue

1/4/2021: 1 p.m.-6 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, 845 South Ohio Street

Simply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit  <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DLU4V_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSGm1CeRrrxGI-2Fja-2FHG25yW63MqQ5m2RYjflZ-2BAHpXwxHECsfpiedhXpAJKAGOv-2FuQkqQlpTwJ0LbbynFouYoauyxxgQnfOxKx2MOuzj3hY7NAOlbRxxN5Okz3hPiJzgBMnnQBAX7FF34sRs24cbyssd3k-2Fzi8LSb0M3hGo6sP2gy" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>,&nbsp;call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)&nbsp;or enable&nbsp;the&nbsp;Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device&nbsp;to make an appointment or for more information.&nbsp;All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphvM0ydae5TdhaeqY7dxOnew-3D-3DdPkl_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSIn7SP-2BTOJRxAJH-2BgclfdTqIkIzCa0E-2BqQz7sqIhEy0bWe0UjxKboILGSxkvGcy9K2Q9g-2FkG1kNwHe1prGEmiY9yvJCNAN9hyTCOdTjuPyqiX0O0jo4ymgfRrfpr7rOBaw1krVdvILD8C0K5Z1rUAC-2FF59zmvqQlrZFL3nJakbds" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.

Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjKz3J0zXbVc9qtWAkoVrOU7eUw_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSHMrunLIu4i-2B-2FmQC9fCiKSot9TYct92GDhuJqF-2BuDeb4hbVUstSFmx-2FYpm5XyaxhtFl1OdBpYxJh-2B9-2FJj6e0Yi-2BRp3RcqQwQ-2BabGY474i-2BbIs3pUyML5jb9iFa-2BwXM9cg8pN1w8oK50-2FpA-2BZvwgBwUcq-2Fb9zKn05VblpwVxNkjSw" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8-3Dyym8_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSIf0DKoNRTR03V6raA3-2BiO4wa-2Bx5YoaLCso40UI2hxGqoHieOqiVIZPS3fX5OGpckTFCp15DGlBeEQfo8haedlWQoPY-2FWZiL-2FLH5-2B7cyuzhM0-2BMV5Mi7bSStTgQVEp8egeXIm3dVlO0lP99WszK5dYk0R-2BCjydK3YflF2X3MDfGL" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9hg41TxzbcaEuXbjP9P1v-2F1xHqem5iGAmJXa3rg2nfp-2BiauL_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSL-2B-2FQAfIPvACBP5dFEN1YQXjrfTe3ftIZP4FE81GAygLlm3rRqZnmnCqXWhFXmeR2aBLPOGsDQJnqdfcjCsLL-2B3AeHCUHdUmfgLfjydxwNoyhiVlsd1RD9wCpLo3Lv6eGgkom7lZabfPtxAc2SrVXGGDOxIWZAziocrcvLbOOLfg" target="_blank">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9tNcW8nFOa0fbFI9LCJ31zm7rtXTZjurfNvosIt6suLSdVjt_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSADKRD1ud6aSSu7eRL1ajLTDFpZtomKSRsUOa9xxddD5WcdG8nNIIKOrJ2H1J0qoU6b8eDnemHFAS51EdKyNdp1WMe6dtELocREI4-2B-2BN6mveWvpRa1vSQVdJ3DQMXXmA72VacY0xfg8xRY1SXstyMOHCwY3mDtj0-2FIYwE5LoBCDq" target="_blank">@RedCross</a>.

December may be the season of giving – but it’s typically a challenging time to collect enough blood donations. Add in a pandemic, and this year could be even tougher than usual. That’s why the American Red Cross is urging those who are feeling well to give the gift of life by&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DRMgl_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSLwOwOsEqOyh-2Bet3krA5-2Bb3XdEkmCnqh6-2FbTH4kPyJhFZEdBbD8YZ7wwayjdme-2FLaq1gmXmTyzIGEaA2QMU-2F5mkuXo3Dc6DX31xI52EUsKzhu9-2B2En9szqDoGkFZvnA8hFlPcJyqG7W0BqsJZLrgBiG9qK3yXqDEgJBEQQNPSzxA" target="_blank">donating blood</a>&nbsp;this holiday season.The need for blood doesn’t stop for holidays. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas, more than 1 million blood transfusions will be given in the United States. Donations of all blood types are needed to ensure hospital shelves remain stocked to meet patient blood needs.Make your appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by downloading the&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcW0AWgbjPlOXwDMNzvwpJqgNAEfj-2F6QzWqOUlUOFSHpwA-3D-3DDBPX_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSJ3wDqKovm9VcZ-2F5Q7EctQpUSlYOFAH84wpAloO2dDLLYltUiWLcrn-2BEgVJt9o1EooX7QGTIxGkoftOzavWpbajqPNDeC8eNDc3aTaNGx8bYTHeoKqb0RcB6vAsceoUttoKqFYqqnlbPIok1A4KlQKVGzUrgDmKBiEhBLzqnlJut" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, visiting&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DPrUy_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSOiPGWNpi0ntGwqPlq50UXLwVgnBcAlEtpR1owdKJMKgG9p7Qq43GBLjrwqddEAT-2FRIcMZ-2B8cTcnZiPhoYgxv2-2BKvZ8t1m-2BbmL0jUpD7XfgrNtt9LMaGTHgy-2FKhnpcKaULG4cmm-2FeipDF-2BnUWFoi0l-2Bz97vOuXiHFOXRMHIldXms" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>, calling 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767) or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.To encourage donations this holiday season, those who come to donate blood with the Red Cross Dec.18-Jan. 4 will receive a long-sleeved Red Cross T-shirt, while supplies last.Important COVID-19 information for donorsAs COVID-19 hospitalizations increase, hospital demand for convalescent plasma has also grown. COVID-19 convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation given by those who've recovered from this coronavirus. Their plasma contains antibodies that may help patients actively fighting the virus.The Red Cross&nbsp;is&nbsp;testing blood, platelet and plasma donations for COVID-19 antibodies. The test may indicate if the donor’s immune system has produced antibodies to this coronavirus, regardless of whether an individual developed COVID-19 symptoms.&nbsp;Red Cross antibody tests will be helpful to identify individuals who have COVID-19 antibodies and may now help current coronavirus patients in need of convalescent plasma transfusions. Convalescent plasma is a type of blood donation collected from COVID-19 survivors that have antibodies that may help patients who are actively fighting the virus.COVID-19 antibody test results will be available&nbsp;within one to two weeks in the Red Cross Blood Donor App or donor portal at RedCrossBlood.org. A positive antibody test result does not confirm infection or immunity.&nbsp;The Red Cross is not testing donors to diagnose illness, referred to as a diagnostic test. To protect the health and safety of Red Cross staff and donors, it is important that individuals who do not feel well or believe they may be ill with COVID-19 postpone donation.Each Red Cross blood drive and donation center follows the highest standards of safety and infection control, and&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcW8o7gbhRQhu3-2BrGY78VBTVSe8Uh37tl7ceXQ2Xthz-2Fsb4n5lZsZ-2BHdiarUOgYP2JxWT1Rd-2FjbStjGbij2z9PCtIHxLsrILwTuuagtQlfNWJA-3D-3DrMNQ_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSJ-2B28aPbwAv1inUJZIfCV2HuiteIVxluE0xuElPCGfg9wHdi9U5FHU0Re5vYBW5-2B-2Fwk37dyQnXng5fRp-2BQvw0CsIYEarZHVhAWPEKjQ9SUDtF54qBfnoECJnKDb-2F1mMME2npMOCn4rZ8TmS0-2Bu-2BBkurbZCsF2TSoKxjkvqv9JjgC" target="_blank">additional precautions&nbsp;</a>– including temperature checks, social distancing and face coverings for donors and staff – have been implemented to help protect the health of all those in attendance. Donors are&nbsp;asked to schedule an appointment prior to arriving at the drive and are required to wear a&nbsp;face covering or mask while at the drive, in alignment with&nbsp;Centers for Disease Control and Prevention&nbsp;public guidance.Upcoming local and area blood donation opportunities Dec. 16-Jan. 4<h2>CLOUD COUNTY</h2>Concordia12/17/2020: noon-6 p.m., Catholic Church, 307 East Fifth12/21/2020: 9 a.m.-4 p.m., OCCK Inc, 1502 Lincoln StreetMiltonvale12/17/2020: 12:30-5:30 p.m., EMS/FIRE Building, 117 Star<h2>JEWELL COUNTY</h2>Jewell12/16/2020: 11:30 a.m.-4 p.m., Jewell Community Building, 214 Delaware<h2>LINCOLN COUNTY</h2>Lincoln12/18/2020: 1:30-6 p.m., Christian Community Center, 137 N. 4th Street<h2>MARION COUNTY</h2>Hillsboro12/21/2020: noon-6 p.m., Hillsboro City Hall, 118 E. Grand<h2>MCPHERSON COUNTY</h2>Inman12/18/2020: noon-6 p.m., St Peters United Church of Christ, 111 PineMoundridge12/18/2020: noon-6 p.m., West Zion Church, 101 S. Washington<h2>REPUBLIC COUNTY</h2>Belleville12/30/2020: noon-5:30 p.m., Republic County 4-H Building, 901 O Street<h2>SALINE COUNTY</h2>Salina12/24/2020: 9 a.m.-1 p.m., The Temple, 336 South Santa Fe Avenue12/28/2020: noon-7 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue12/29/2020: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., Choices Network, 120 West Prescott Avenue12/29/2020: 9 a.m.-3 p.m., OCCK, 1710 West Schilling Road12/29/2020: noon-7 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue12/30/2020: 8 a.m.-2 p.m., Sunrise Presbyterian, 825 East Beloit Avenue1/4/2021: 1 p.m.-6 p.m., The Church of Jesus Christ Latter Day Saints, 845 South Ohio StreetAbout blood donationSimply download the American Red Cross Blood Donor App, visit  <a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphR3CgU-2Br9dyNJIniqwyVk4tCN1pJAF8xwGvRHoS8DiPbUkpWg5G9KvKv37XVAuDDq9U1DcsN-2BW-2FP-2B74EH2lxMGibDkoeoKFGbOmPudm5zPuU-3DLU4V_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSGm1CeRrrxGI-2Fja-2FHG25yW63MqQ5m2RYjflZ-2BAHpXwxHECsfpiedhXpAJKAGOv-2FuQkqQlpTwJ0LbbynFouYoauyxxgQnfOxKx2MOuzj3hY7NAOlbRxxN5Okz3hPiJzgBMnnQBAX7FF34sRs24cbyssd3k-2Fzi8LSb0M3hGo6sP2gy" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>,&nbsp;call 1-800-RED CROSS (1-800-733-2767)&nbsp;or enable&nbsp;the&nbsp;Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device&nbsp;to make an appointment or for more information.&nbsp;All blood types are needed to ensure a reliable supply for patients. A blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age&nbsp;in most states&nbsp;(16 with parental consent&nbsp;where allowed by state law), weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=4tNED-2FM8iDZJQyQ53jATUXB8DBR7Jr5TcFyyqp8VCcUhCBRb6TtLBWEBUqw6ksphvM0ydae5TdhaeqY7dxOnew-3D-3DdPkl_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSIn7SP-2BTOJRxAJH-2BgclfdTqIkIzCa0E-2BqQz7sqIhEy0bWe0UjxKboILGSxkvGcy9K2Q9g-2FkG1kNwHe1prGEmiY9yvJCNAN9hyTCOdTjuPyqiX0O0jo4ymgfRrfpr7rOBaw1krVdvILD8C0K5Z1rUAC-2FF59zmvqQlrZFL3nJakbds" target="_blank">donate blood</a>. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also have to meet certain height and weight requirements.Blood and platelet donors can save time at their next donation by using RapidPass®&nbsp;to complete their pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of their donation, before arriving at the blood drive. To get started, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9nAk-2BdoMpFHABCOsrA-2BSZnjKz3J0zXbVc9qtWAkoVrOU7eUw_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSHMrunLIu4i-2B-2FmQC9fCiKSot9TYct92GDhuJqF-2BuDeb4hbVUstSFmx-2FYpm5XyaxhtFl1OdBpYxJh-2B9-2FJj6e0Yi-2BRp3RcqQwQ-2BabGY474i-2BbIs3pUyML5jb9iFa-2BwXM9cg8pN1w8oK50-2FpA-2BZvwgBwUcq-2Fb9zKn05VblpwVxNkjSw" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the Blood Donor App.About the American Red CrossThe American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9geTRvg6gONCxWCfsFRiiR8-3Dyym8_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSIf0DKoNRTR03V6raA3-2BiO4wa-2Bx5YoaLCso40UI2hxGqoHieOqiVIZPS3fX5OGpckTFCp15DGlBeEQfo8haedlWQoPY-2FWZiL-2FLH5-2B7cyuzhM0-2BMV5Mi7bSStTgQVEp8egeXIm3dVlO0lP99WszK5dYk0R-2BCjydK3YflF2X3MDfGL" target="_blank">redcross.org</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9hg41TxzbcaEuXbjP9P1v-2F1xHqem5iGAmJXa3rg2nfp-2BiauL_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSL-2B-2FQAfIPvACBP5dFEN1YQXjrfTe3ftIZP4FE81GAygLlm3rRqZnmnCqXWhFXmeR2aBLPOGsDQJnqdfcjCsLL-2B3AeHCUHdUmfgLfjydxwNoyhiVlsd1RD9wCpLo3Lv6eGgkom7lZabfPtxAc2SrVXGGDOxIWZAziocrcvLbOOLfg" target="_blank">cruzrojaamericana.org</a>, or visit us on Twitter at&nbsp;<a href="https://u7061146.ct.sendgrid.net/ls/click?upn=TeZUXWpUv-2B6TCY38pVLo9tNcW8nFOa0fbFI9LCJ31zm7rtXTZjurfNvosIt6suLSdVjt_6kyJuRoUnmvCB1a16096Mn2eJZOhmBwdl6u-2F3e7vncM2LrUJDwK9KSu1RUc8GFlyfK2ZGVifG9xagvh4urZno-2FqR7DFQzyYFMOo8YSQItZdNThXuRqDKhts2kmIR11oerBS594oG06LGAyrVZmh6-2BaDeCiklLqwjSiRlRisaL9cI7-2Fhl3pylqo4dSSTmL6mVU3X1YiLhGZEsxhjNSR8PSADKRD1ud6aSSu7eRL1ajLTDFpZtomKSRsUOa9xxddD5WcdG8nNIIKOrJ2H1J0qoU6b8eDnemHFAS51EdKyNdp1WMe6dtELocREI4-2B-2BN6mveWvpRa1vSQVdJ3DQMXXmA72VacY0xfg8xRY1SXstyMOHCwY3mDtj0-2FIYwE5LoBCDq" target="_blank">@RedCross</a>.

During the season of giving, Red Cross urges blood donation

&nbsp;See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary/">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:

&nbsp;See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary/">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159135082048140%2F&show_text=true&width=552&height=658&appId" width="552" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Check out what's new at the Salina Public Library!

The Salina Souperbowl of Hope needs your help.

"We are asking businesses and churches to help us with our goal of collecting 55,000 cans of soup to be distributed between the Salina Food Bank, Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, Ashby House, and DVACK," Superbowl of Hope coordinators noted in a news release.  

Cans of soup and donations are being collected until Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021.

In addition to cans of soup, monetary donations also will be accepted.

"$25 will allow us to buy 60 cans of soup," the organization noted in the news release. 

Donations may be taken to the Salina Emergency Food Bank or call 785-452-5008 for pickup.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/12/1607035548610.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@callemac?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Calle Macarone</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/cans-of-soup?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a>" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/@callemac?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Calle Macarone</a>&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://unsplash.com/s/photos/cans-of-soup?utm_source=unsplash&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_content=creditCopyText">Unsplash</a></figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Souperbowl of Hope needs your help."We are asking businesses and churches to help us with our goal of collecting 55,000 cans of soup to be distributed between the Salina Food Bank, Salvation Army, Rescue Mission, Ashby House, and DVACK," Superbowl of Hope coordinators noted in a news release. Cans of soup and donations are being collected until Super Bowl Sunday, Feb. 7, 2021.In addition to cans of soup, monetary donations also will be accepted."$25 will allow us to buy 60 cans of soup," the organization noted in the news release. Donations may be taken to the Salina Emergency Food Bank or call 785-452-5008 for pickup.

Souperbowl of Hope collecting soup, donations

The City of Salina is currently accepting expression of interest forms for vacancies that currently or will soon exist on the following citizen boards, commissions, and committees.

Animal Control Advisory &amp; Appeals Board

Business Improvement District Design Review

•Property Owner within Business Improvement District

Convention &amp; Tourism Advisory Board

Parks &amp; Recreation Advisory Board

•Outside Representative but within 3 miles of the City Limits

Salina Community Economic Development Organization

*The Youth on Board program allows for individuals between the ages of 15-20 attending a secondary or post-secondary school to serve on certain boards that are noted above.

If you are interested in serving the community by becoming a member of one of these boards, commissions, or committees, you are asked to fill out an expression-of-interest form by Jan. 4, 2021, for all boards except Salina Airport Authority and Feb. 8, 2021, for the Salina

Airport Authority. An expression-of-interest form or more information may be obtained from the City of Salina website at http://www.salinaks.gov/boards or by visiting the City Clerk’s Office, room 206 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. For questions, please call (785) 309-5735.

The City of Salina is currently accepting expression of interest forms for vacancies that currently or will soon exist on the following citizen boards, commissions, and committees.Accessibility Advisory Board•Youth Member*Animal Control Advisory &amp; Appeals Board•Youth Member*Arts &amp; Humanities Commission•Youth Member*Board of Zoning Appeals•Citizen-at-Large within City Limits•Youth Member*Building Advisory Board•RealtorBusiness Improvement District Design Review•Citizen-at-Large•Design Professional•Property Owner within Business Improvement DistrictCitizen Review Board•Citizen-at-LargeConvention &amp; Tourism Advisory Board•Citizen-at-LargeDisciplinary Advisory Board•Citizen-at-Large within City LimitsHeritage Commission•Citizen-at-Large•Youth Member*Housing Authority•Client/TenantHuman Relations Commission•Youth Member*Parks &amp; Recreation Advisory Board•Youth Member*Planning Commission•Outside Representative but within 3 miles of the City Limits•Youth Member*Salina Airport Authority•Citizen-at-LargeSalina Community Economic Development Organization•Citizen-at-LargeSolid Waste Management Committee•Citizen-at-Large within City Limits•County At-Large Representative•County Unincorporated Representative•3rd Class City Representative•Youth Member*Tree Advisory Board•Citizen-At-Large•Youth Member**The Youth on Board program allows for individuals between the ages of 15-20 attending a secondary or post-secondary school to serve on certain boards that are noted above.If you are interested in serving the community by becoming a member of one of these boards, commissions, or committees, you are asked to fill out an expression-of-interest form by Jan. 4, 2021, for all boards except Salina Airport Authority and Feb. 8, 2021, for the SalinaAirport Authority. An expression-of-interest form or more information may be obtained from the City of Salina website at http://www.salinaks.gov/boards or by visiting the City Clerk’s Office, room 206 of the City-County Building, 300 West Ash Street. For questions, please call (785) 309-5735.

City of Salina seeks volunteers for boards, commissions

Here's what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:

Here's what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159082845853140%2F&show_text=true&width=552&height=658&appId" width="552" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Check out what's new at the Salina Public Library

The Smoky Hill Museum staff is in the planning process for upcoming exhibits for the spring of 2022 and beyond, and seeks the opinion of community members to help guide their decisions. 

The museum staff is asking community members to take the survey titled "Upcoming SHM Exhibits" at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23VCYKC?fbclid=IwAR13fAeN9eS63lHLnH6Y_Z09vFEzPwUWp4XN21FjOHybk4YDE-pUD1yE1CI" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23VCYKC</a>.&nbsp;

The survey should only take a couple of minutes. Everyone’s feedback is important, the museum staff noted in a news release.

Visitors can currently see the special exhibit,&nbsp;The 1950s Part 2: Beyond the American Dream, through April 10, 2021. The museum typically produces two special exhibits a year and plans exhibits anywhere from two to four years out.

“It is important to stay relevant and the best way to do that is through community input,” said Museum Director Susan Hawksworth.

The museum, 211 West Iron Avenue, is open to the public Tuesdays-Fridays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free.

The Smoky Hill Museum staff is in the planning process for upcoming exhibits for the spring of 2022 and beyond, and seeks the opinion of community members to help guide their decisions. The museum staff is asking community members to take the survey titled "Upcoming SHM Exhibits" at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23VCYKC?fbclid=IwAR13fAeN9eS63lHLnH6Y_Z09vFEzPwUWp4XN21FjOHybk4YDE-pUD1yE1CI" target="_blank">https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/23VCYKC</a>.&nbsp; The survey should only take a couple of minutes. Everyone’s feedback is important, the museum staff noted in a news release.Visitors can currently see the special exhibit,&nbsp;The 1950s Part 2: Beyond the American Dream, through April 10, 2021. The museum typically produces two special exhibits a year and plans exhibits anywhere from two to four years out.“It is important to stay relevant and the best way to do that is through community input,” said Museum Director Susan Hawksworth.The museum, 211 West Iron Avenue, is open to the public Tuesdays-Fridays 11 a.m.-4 p.m. and Saturdays 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Admission is free.

Smoky Hill Museum staff seeks input about exhibits

Here's what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159064129283140%2F&show_text=true&width=552&height=639&appId" width="552" height="639" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:

Not feeling well? Here's what you need to know:<figure>
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Is it COVID-19, a cold, the flu, or allergies? Symptom need-to-knows

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the tax industry today warned of a new text scam created by thieves that trick people into disclosing bank account information under the guise of receiving the $1,200 Economic Impact Payment.

The IRS, states and industry, working together as the Security Summit, remind taxpayers that neither the IRS nor state agencies will ever text taxpayers asking for bank account information so that an EIP deposit may be made.

“Criminals are relentlessly using COVID-19 and Economic Impact Payments as cover to try to trick taxpayers out of their money or identities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “This scam is a new twist on those we’ve been seeing much of this year. We urge people to remain alert to these types of scams.”

The scam text message states: “You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS FUND. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue here to accept this payment …” The text includes a link to a fake phishing web address.

This fake phishing URL, which appears to come from a state agency or relief organization, takes recipients to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS.gov Get My Payment website. Individuals who visit the fraudulent website and then enter their personal and financial account information will have their information collected by these scammers.

People who receive this text scam should take a screen shot of the text message that they received and then include the screenshot in an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov" target="_blank">phishing@irs.gov</a>&nbsp;with the following information:

●Date/Time/Timezone that they received the text message. 

●The number that appeared on their Caller ID. 

●The number that received the text message

The IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. The IRS does not call people with threats of jail or lawsuits, nor does it demand tax payments on gift cards.

People who believe they are eligible for the Economic Impact Payment should go directly to IRS.gov. People who do not have a filing requirement but who are eligible for EIP can use a non-filers tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> until Nov. 21 to claim their payment.

WASHINGTON – The Internal Revenue Service, state tax agencies and the tax industry today warned of a new text scam created by thieves that trick people into disclosing bank account information under the guise of receiving the $1,200 Economic Impact Payment.The IRS, states and industry, working together as the Security Summit, remind taxpayers that neither the IRS nor state agencies will ever text taxpayers asking for bank account information so that an EIP deposit may be made.“Criminals are relentlessly using COVID-19 and Economic Impact Payments as cover to try to trick taxpayers out of their money or identities,” said IRS Commissioner Chuck Rettig. “This scam is a new twist on those we’ve been seeing much of this year. We urge people to remain alert to these types of scams.”The scam text message states: “You have received a direct deposit of $1,200 from COVID-19 TREAS FUND. Further action is required to accept this payment into your account. Continue here to accept this payment …” The text includes a link to a fake phishing web address.This fake phishing URL, which appears to come from a state agency or relief organization, takes recipients to a fraudulent website that impersonates the IRS.gov Get My Payment website. Individuals who visit the fraudulent website and then enter their personal and financial account information will have their information collected by these scammers.People who receive this text scam should take a screen shot of the text message that they received and then include the screenshot in an email to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:phishing@irs.gov" target="_blank">phishing@irs.gov</a>&nbsp;with the following information:●Date/Time/Timezone that they received the text message. ●The number that appeared on their Caller ID. ●The number that received the text messageThe IRS does not send unsolicited texts or emails. The IRS does not call people with threats of jail or lawsuits, nor does it demand tax payments on gift cards.People who believe they are eligible for the Economic Impact Payment should go directly to IRS.gov. People who do not have a filing requirement but who are eligible for EIP can use a non-filers tool on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> until Nov. 21 to claim their payment.--<a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>--

IRS, state tax agencies warn taxpayers of new COVID-related text scam

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary/">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:

See what's new at the Salina Public Library. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinapubliclibrary/">Salina Public Library</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159045795353140%2F&show_text=true&width=552&height=658&appId" width="552" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

By COLLEEN TRESSLER Consumer Education Specialist, FTC

Imposter scams often begin with a call, text message, or email. <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0037-imposter-scams">The scams may vary</a>, but work the same way – a scammer pretends to be someone you trust to convince you to send them money or share personal information.

Scammers may ask you to transfer money from you bank, wire money using a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, put money on a gift card, or send cryptocurrency, because they know these types of payments can be hard to reverse. Scammers call, email, or text and claim to be:&nbsp;

●A family member&nbsp;(or someone acting for them), saying your relative is sick, has been arrested, or is in serious trouble and needs money right away.

●From Social Security, claiming that COVID-19-related office closures mean your benefits have been suspended.

●From your bank, claiming they need to verify personal information before they can send you a new debit or credit card.

Follow these tips to help protect your money and personal information:

●Be suspicious of any call from a government agency asking for money or information.&nbsp;Government agencies don’t use threats and they don’t call you with promises of – or demands for – money.

●Don’t trust caller ID&nbsp;– it can be faked.

●Never pay with a gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency&nbsp;to anyone who tells you to.

●Check with the real agency, person, or company.&nbsp;Don’t use the phone number they give you. Look it up yourself.

Please share this information and the <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/money-mule-scams-infographic">FTC’s new infographic</a>, developed with the American Bankers Association Foundation.

If you spot an imposter scam, report it to the FTC at <a href="https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&amp;panel1-1">ftc.gov/complaint</a>. Your report can help the FTC’s investigators identify and stop imposters. To get notifications about new scams and tips to avoid them, <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=USFTCCONSUMER_8">sign up for our consumer alert.</a>

The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/10/how-spot-avoid-and-report-imposter-scams?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.

By COLLEEN TRESSLER Consumer Education Specialist, FTCImposter scams often begin with a call, text message, or email. <a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/features/feature-0037-imposter-scams">The scams may vary</a>, but work the same way – a scammer pretends to be someone you trust to convince you to send them money or share personal information.Scammers may ask you to transfer money from you bank, wire money using a company like Western Union or MoneyGram, put money on a gift card, or send cryptocurrency, because they know these types of payments can be hard to reverse. Scammers call, email, or text and claim to be:&nbsp;●A family member&nbsp;(or someone acting for them), saying your relative is sick, has been arrested, or is in serious trouble and needs money right away.●From Social Security, claiming that COVID-19-related office closures mean your benefits have been suspended.●From your bank, claiming they need to verify personal information before they can send you a new debit or credit card.Follow these tips to help protect your money and personal information:●Be suspicious of any call from a government agency asking for money or information.&nbsp;Government agencies don’t use threats and they don’t call you with promises of – or demands for – money.●Don’t trust caller ID&nbsp;– it can be faked.●Never pay with a gift card, wire transfer, or cryptocurrency&nbsp;to anyone who tells you to.●Check with the real agency, person, or company.&nbsp;Don’t use the phone number they give you. Look it up yourself.Please share this information and the <a href="https://consumer.ftc.gov/articles/money-mule-scams-infographic">FTC’s new infographic</a>, developed with the American Bankers Association Foundation.If you spot an imposter scam, report it to the FTC at <a href="https://www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov/#crnt&amp;panel1-1">ftc.gov/complaint</a>. Your report can help the FTC’s investigators identify and stop imposters. To get notifications about new scams and tips to avoid them, <a href="https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/USFTCCONSUMER/subscriber/new?topic_id=USFTCCONSUMER_8">sign up for our consumer alert.</a><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/10/1603328652923.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The above information is from the Federal Trade Commission Consumer Information&nbsp;<a href="https://www.consumer.ftc.gov/blog/2020/10/how-spot-avoid-and-report-imposter-scams?utm_source=govdelivery">blog</a>.

FTC: How to spot, avoid, and report imposter scams

Check out what's new at the Salina Public Library! From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:

Check out what's new at the Salina Public Library! From the Salina Public Library Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinapubliclibrary%2Fphotos%2Fa.435863323139%2F10159009870803140%2F&show_text=true&width=552&height=658&appId" width="552" height="658" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Do you wish you could save time&nbsp;investigating&nbsp;the memes and questionable news stories filling your social media feeds?&nbsp;Ever wish the person who shared it had fact-checked it&nbsp;before they shared?&nbsp;&nbsp;

Fortunately, librarians at K-State Libraries are sharing resources and tools you can use to identify false news stories that run across your feed.

First, it can help to remember that social media was not designed as a news outlet.&nbsp;

"If your feeds have become&nbsp;flooded with content that makes you feel more emotional&nbsp;than informed,&nbsp;you can choose to hide those posts and get your news from legitimate news outlets and research organizations," said Sara K. Kearns, professor and academic services librarian with K-State Libraries.

If you do want to run down the fact-checking road, Kearns recommends that you find out if someone has already done the work for you&nbsp;before you lace up your shoes. The following sites not only investigate the stories, but they also provide you with more information to back up their claims.

<a href="http://www.factcheck.org">FactCheck.org&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

FactCheck.org is a nonpartisan organization that has investigated politics since 2003. They also fact-check science claims. FactCheck.org is a project of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank">Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania.</a>&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.poynter.org/channels/fact-checking/">Poynter Institute — Fact-Checking Research&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>

Journalists at the Poynter Institute collect and explain major studies and events related to fact-checking, fake news and misinformation.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.politifact.com/">PolitiFact</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;

Politifact&nbsp;is a Pulitzer Prize-winning website created by the&nbsp;Tampa Bay Times&nbsp;and now operates as part of the Poynter Institute.&nbsp;The&nbsp;site focuses on political news and statements made by elected officials.&nbsp;

<a href="http://www.snopes.com/">Snopes&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;

Originally a debunker of urban myths, Snopes now investigates memes, tweets and the news.&nbsp;You can go straight to its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/">fact-checking page</a>.

Kearns says these fact-checking sites establish, publish and follow their own investigation guidelines. Sometimes, the researchers clearly confirm or refute the stories. They also provide enough information for the user to come to their own conclusions about more nuanced issues.

For more&nbsp;resources,&nbsp;visit K-State Libraries'&nbsp;<a href="https://guides.lib.k-state.edu/breakingyournewsbubble">Breaking Your News Bubble research guide</a>.

The above story -- written by&nbsp;Cailin Riley,&nbsp;writer/editor, Communication &amp; Marketing, Kansas State University Libraries -- was republished with permission from K-State Today,&nbsp;a daily email providing faculty and staff a single source of timely K-State announcements.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1601502896707.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/memyselfaneye-331664/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4881488">memyselfaneye</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4881488">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Photo by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/memyselfaneye-331664/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4881488">memyselfaneye</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=4881488">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure>Do you wish you could save time&nbsp;investigating&nbsp;the memes and questionable news stories filling your social media feeds?&nbsp;Ever wish the person who shared it had fact-checked it&nbsp;before they shared?&nbsp;&nbsp;Fortunately, librarians at K-State Libraries are sharing resources and tools you can use to identify false news stories that run across your feed.First, it can help to remember that social media was not designed as a news outlet.&nbsp;"If your feeds have become&nbsp;flooded with content that makes you feel more emotional&nbsp;than informed,&nbsp;you can choose to hide those posts and get your news from legitimate news outlets and research organizations," said Sara K. Kearns, professor and academic services librarian with K-State Libraries.If you do want to run down the fact-checking road, Kearns recommends that you find out if someone has already done the work for you&nbsp;before you lace up your shoes. The following sites not only investigate the stories, but they also provide you with more information to back up their claims.<a href="http://www.factcheck.org">FactCheck.org&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>FactCheck.org is a nonpartisan organization that has investigated politics since 2003. They also fact-check science claims. FactCheck.org is a project of the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.annenbergpublicpolicycenter.org/" target="_blank">Annenberg Public Policy Center of the University of Pennsylvania.</a>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.poynter.org/channels/fact-checking/">Poynter Institute — Fact-Checking Research&nbsp;&nbsp;</a>Journalists at the Poynter Institute collect and explain major studies and events related to fact-checking, fake news and misinformation.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.politifact.com/">PolitiFact</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;Politifact&nbsp;is a Pulitzer Prize-winning website created by the&nbsp;Tampa Bay Times&nbsp;and now operates as part of the Poynter Institute.&nbsp;The&nbsp;site focuses on political news and statements made by elected officials.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.snopes.com/">Snopes&nbsp;</a>&nbsp;Originally a debunker of urban myths, Snopes now investigates memes, tweets and the news.&nbsp;You can go straight to its&nbsp;<a href="https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/">fact-checking page</a>.Kearns says these fact-checking sites establish, publish and follow their own investigation guidelines. Sometimes, the researchers clearly confirm or refute the stories. They also provide enough information for the user to come to their own conclusions about more nuanced issues.For more&nbsp;resources,&nbsp;visit K-State Libraries'&nbsp;<a href="https://guides.lib.k-state.edu/breakingyournewsbubble">Breaking Your News Bubble research guide</a>.The above story -- written by&nbsp;Cailin Riley,&nbsp;writer/editor, Communication &amp; Marketing, Kansas State University Libraries -- was republished with permission from K-State Today,&nbsp;a daily email providing faculty and staff a single source of timely K-State announcements.

How to avoid the fake news trap

OCCK Transportation will continue free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit, City of Abilene, and KanConnect through the end of 2020.

“2020 has been one for the books and unlike anything we’ve ever experienced,” said Michelle Griffin, Mobility Manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Offering free fares for the remainder of the year will give new and returning passengers some freedom to try our services.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even with the global pandemic, public transit offers a safe and easy alternative to driving.”

Counties served include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth, Osborne, Smith, McPherson, Marion, Dickinson, Clay.

OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.

OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, City of Abilene public transportation and the newest program, KanConnect.

For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit www.occk.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>. Or, contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-1583.

OCCK Transportation will continue free fares for all public transit services, including CityGo, 81 Connection, Paratransit, City of Abilene, and KanConnect through the end of 2020.“2020 has been one for the books and unlike anything we’ve ever experienced,” said Michelle Griffin, Mobility Manager.&nbsp;&nbsp;“Offering free fares for the remainder of the year will give new and returning passengers some freedom to try our services.&nbsp;&nbsp;Even with the global pandemic, public transit offers a safe and easy alternative to driving.”Counties served include:&nbsp;&nbsp;Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth, Osborne, Smith, McPherson, Marion, Dickinson, Clay.OCCK, Inc. provides services in north central Kansas to anyone with any type of long or short-term disability, starting as early as birth and following people through their whole lives.&nbsp; OCCK provides an array of supports for success at home and in the community, including independent living skills and supports, employment and career training, Alzheimer’s supports, autism services, assistive technology, children’s services, transportation, specialized therapies, and home health care.OCCK is committed to providing transportation services to the general public, seniors, and persons with disabilities, through a variety of programs, including a fixed route service in Salina, CityGo, a regional paratransit service that serves fourteen counties, non emergency medical transportation for people with Medicaid, as well as non emergency medical transportation for clients of Salina Regional Health Center, a regional fixed route service, 81 Connection, KANcycle – the regional bike sharing program, City of Abilene public transportation and the newest program, KanConnect.For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit www.occk.com.&nbsp;&nbsp;For more information about CityGo and OCCK Transportation, visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.salinacitygo.com/" target="_blank">www.salinacitygo.com</a>. Or, contact the OCCK Transportation Center at 785-826-1583.

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