It's almost time for the Salina Pain Clinic $1,000 Bracket Challenge to begin. Have you made your picks yet? 

All you have to do for a shot at the big money is fill out the full 64 team NCAA bracket on Salina Post. Participants must be Kansas residents and must submit picks before the first game tips on Friday at 11 a.m. A perfect bracket also makes you eligible for a $1 million national cash prize.

To sweeten the deal, District is offering this coupon:

And don't get down if your bracket busts early. You could still win cash by completing the Salina Wholesale Liquor 16 team bracket!

But remember, you can't win if you don't fill out your bracket before the first tip on Friday morning. Make your picks today!

<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b12720cd-9c66-4ca9-942c-76f22d079297?contestid=32#registration/login">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to play the Salina Pain Clinic $1,000 Bracket Challenge on Salina Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1615825007477.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>It's almost time for the Salina Pain Clinic $1,000 Bracket Challenge to begin. Have you made your picks yet? All you have to do for a shot at the big money is fill out the full 64 team NCAA bracket on Salina Post. Participants must be Kansas residents and must submit picks before the first game tips on Friday at 11 a.m. A perfect bracket also makes you eligible for a $1 million national cash prize.To sweeten the deal, District is offering this coupon:<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616085574494.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>And don't get down if your bracket busts early. You could still win cash by completing the Salina Wholesale Liquor 16 team bracket!But remember, you can't win if you don't fill out your bracket before the first tip on Friday morning. Make your picks today!<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/b12720cd-9c66-4ca9-942c-76f22d079297?contestid=32#registration/login">CLICK HERE</a>&nbsp;to play the Salina Pain Clinic $1,000 Bracket Challenge on Salina Post.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Salina Pain Clinic's Bracket Challenge is about to begin; are your picks in?

OCCK, Inc. is now accepting applications for its More Than You Think Scholarship for 2021. 

The new scholarship was established as part of the 50th&nbsp;Anniversary celebration of OCCK in 2020, as a long term reminder of the good work that past generations have done, and that future generations will do, in working with people with disabilities in north central Kansas.&nbsp;

The More Than You Think Scholarship recognizes and honors students in north central Kansas from Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth or Dickinson counties, who have a disability and are looking to further their education by enrolling in some type of post-secondary learning opportunity (college, university, community college, vocational school, cosmetology school, etc.)&nbsp;&nbsp;Any type of credentialed program will be considered.&nbsp;

“OCCK is proud to celebrate fifty years of partnerships and services in north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are excited to sponsor this scholarship fund so people with disabilities can add to their skills through education,” said Shelia Nelson-Stout, President/CEO of OCCK. “OCCK is committed to investing in our communities and we believe education is a strong tool that allows people to pursue jobs and careers.”

To apply, applicants must complete the scholarship application, and include two letters of reference.&nbsp;&nbsp;Applications are due May 1, 2021. Multiple winners may be selected in amounts up to $500 each.

The scholarship application may be found online at&nbsp;<a href="https://occk.com/scholarships/" target="_blank">https://occk.com/scholarships/</a>, or by contacting Janae Cramer at <a href="mailto:jcramer@occk.com">jcramer@occk.com</a> or 785.827.9383.

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;&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.

For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>

OCCK, Inc. is now accepting applications for its More Than You Think Scholarship for 2021. The new scholarship was established as part of the 50th&nbsp;Anniversary celebration of OCCK in 2020, as a long term reminder of the good work that past generations have done, and that future generations will do, in working with people with disabilities in north central Kansas.&nbsp;The More Than You Think Scholarship recognizes and honors students in north central Kansas from Saline, Ottawa, Cloud, Republic, Jewell, Mitchell, Lincoln, Ellsworth or Dickinson counties, who have a disability and are looking to further their education by enrolling in some type of post-secondary learning opportunity (college, university, community college, vocational school, cosmetology school, etc.)&nbsp;&nbsp;Any type of credentialed program will be considered.&nbsp;“OCCK is proud to celebrate fifty years of partnerships and services in north central Kansas.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are excited to sponsor this scholarship fund so people with disabilities can add to their skills through education,” said Shelia Nelson-Stout, President/CEO of OCCK. “OCCK is committed to investing in our communities and we believe education is a strong tool that allows people to pursue jobs and careers.”To apply, applicants must complete the scholarship application, and include two letters of reference.&nbsp;&nbsp;Applications are due May 1, 2021. Multiple winners may be selected in amounts up to $500 each.The scholarship application may be found online at&nbsp;<a href="https://occk.com/scholarships/" target="_blank">https://occk.com/scholarships/</a>, or by contacting Janae Cramer at <a href="mailto:jcramer@occk.com">jcramer@occk.com</a> or 785.827.9383.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;&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.For more information about OCCK, Inc., visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.occk.com/" target="_blank">www.occk.com</a>

OCCK taking applications for its More Than You Think Scholarship

The Kansas Department of Transportation will resume work on Monday to replace the bridges on Interstate 70 over Chapman Creek in Dickinson County. 

The westbound bridge will be replaced first, in the spring through the fall of 2021. The eastbound bridge will be replaced next, in the spring through the fall of 2022.

Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 16.5-foot lane at a reduced speed of 60 mph through the work zone. Drivers should expect minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.

Reece Construction of Salina is the primary contractor for this $5.7 million project. The contractor has scheduled work to be completed by November 2022.

KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone.&nbsp;Check <a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a> for updates and more information.

The Kansas Department of Transportation will resume work on Monday to replace the bridges on Interstate 70 over Chapman Creek in Dickinson County. The westbound bridge will be replaced first, in the spring through the fall of 2021. The eastbound bridge will be replaced next, in the spring through the fall of 2022.Construction will take place during daylight hours and traffic will be reduced to one 16.5-foot lane at a reduced speed of 60 mph through the work zone. Drivers should expect minor delays, not exceeding five minutes.Reece Construction of Salina is the primary contractor for this $5.7 million project. The contractor has scheduled work to be completed by November 2022.KDOT urges all motorists to be alert and obey the warning signs when approaching and driving through a work zone.&nbsp;Check <a href="http://kandrive.org">kandrive.org</a> for updates and more information.

Bridge replacement on I-70 in Dickinson County to resume Monday

The Smoky Hill Museum is offering free craft kits. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum</a> Facebook page:

The Smoky Hill Museum is offering free craft kits. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/SmokyHillMuseum/">Smoky Hill Museum</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FSmokyHillMuseum%2Fposts%2F3790117931036011&width=500&show_text=true&height=464&appId" width="500" height="464" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

Smoky Hill Museum offering free craft kits

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers that the most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3JlZnVuZHMifQ.TInFm6PbczDIPhb5zdZCamdqMMPX4IZQ7RmomFry0wc/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Where’s My Refund?</a>” tool at IRS.gov or through the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2lyczJnb2FwcCJ9.f4a72MFgsfU6HkXbizwWwNTVQlf1tXK0WLDi4gpoiow/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">IRS2Go Mobile App</a>.

Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed return is received. In addition, “Where’s My Refund?" provides a personalized date after the return is processed and a refund is approved.

Now more than ever, the safest and best way to file a complete and accurate tax return and get a refund is to file&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2ZpbGluZy9lLWZpbGUtb3B0aW9ucyJ9.IT7nPGZKqezJjh6s4-E8rbjD5hjMmBjXv5MAB74TFB4/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">electronically</a>&nbsp;and use direct deposit. Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov/filing for more details about IRS Free File, Free File Fillable Forms and free tax preparation sites. E-filing is also available through a trusted tax professional.

While most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, some may take longer because the return requires additional review.&nbsp;

There are several reasons a tax refund may take long:

●The return may include errors or be incomplete.

●The return could be affected by identity theft or fraud.

●The return includes a claim for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.

●The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it to an account since many banks do not process payments on weekends or holidays.

The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.&nbsp;

Taxpayers claiming the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL3JlY292ZXJ5LXJlYmF0ZS1jcmVkaXQifQ.gO91VovoWtqUT8la4BN7JIAD9evAD55u4245_qeUuKI/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Recovery Rebate Credit</a>&nbsp;on their tax return will not cause a delay in the processing of that tax return. However, it is important that taxpayers claim the correct amount. If a correction is needed, there may be a slight delay in processing the return and the IRS will send a notice explaining any change made. Refunds may be delayed while the IRS makes any necessary corrections.

Taxpayers can use “Where’s My Refund?” to start checking on the status of their return within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an electronically filed return or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper return. The tool’s tracker displays progress through three phases: (1) Return Received; (2) Refund Approved; and (3) Refund Sent. To use it a taxpayer must&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3NhLnd3dzQuaXJzLmdvdi9pcmZvZi9sYW5nL2VuL2lyZm9mZ2V0c3RhdHVzLmpzcCJ9.xpq0RVUP2dez3biliAkHH8sZ7R3cJckwtmd7UqU10Ko/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">enter</a>&nbsp;their Social security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) , their filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of their refund. The IRS updates “Where’s My Refund?” once a day, usually overnight, so there’s no need to check more frequently.

Calling IRS doesn’t speed up refund timing

Calling the IRS won’t expedite a tax refund. The information available on “Where’s My Refund?” is the same information available to IRS telephone assistors.

Most taxpayers who want to prepare their own returns can file electronically for free with&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2ZpbGluZy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZG8teW91ci1mZWRlcmFsLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIn0.vpdp48YvNjBsFGbs5EP9AUKzfL4zN3XGZAESSpwNKk0/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">IRS Free File</a>. Alternatively, taxpayers who qualify can get&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL2ZyZWUtdGF4LXJldHVybi1wcmVwYXJhdGlvbi1mb3IteW91LWJ5LXZvbHVudGVlcnMifQ.AxwZrzq8mJlZiZUWoDNoz51ZEVqlZuHvcf3MeRzyPqA/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">free tax help from trained volunteers</a>&nbsp;at community sites around the country.

Some people mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund.

Taxpayers can use several options to help find a paid tax preparer. One resource is&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheC1wcm9mZXNzaW9uYWxzL2Nob29zaW5nLWEtdGF4LXByb2Zlc3Npb25hbCJ9.CVpZqJDYhStiJzHje_MqMTONqCqPgwF9Dha1Cld0at0/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Choosing a Tax Professional</a>, which includes a list of consumer tips for selecting a tax professional.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9ycG8vcnBvLmpzZiJ9.t1Dw6GiMz-bXBTRw8ahlIIPr3atNz45fp_hOp4MEwtA/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>&nbsp;is a free searchable and sortable database. It includes the name, city, state and zip code of credentialed return preparers who are CPAs, enrolled agents or attorneys, as well as those who have completed the requirements for the IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheC1wcm9mZXNzaW9uYWxzL2FubnVhbC1maWxpbmctc2Vhc29uLXByb2dyYW0ifQ.oWWGz8CM6Md5iD1waqDOjW2P2MnZHo-brWbHLN_u0bM/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Annual Filing Season Program</a>. A search of the database can help taxpayers verify credentials and qualifications of tax professionals.

Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and easy-to-use tools online at <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> anytime. No appointment required and no waiting on hold.

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminds taxpayers that the most convenient way to check on a tax refund is by using the “<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3JlZnVuZHMifQ.TInFm6PbczDIPhb5zdZCamdqMMPX4IZQ7RmomFry0wc/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Where’s My Refund?</a>” tool at IRS.gov or through the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2lyczJnb2FwcCJ9.f4a72MFgsfU6HkXbizwWwNTVQlf1tXK0WLDi4gpoiow/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">IRS2Go Mobile App</a>.Taxpayers can start checking their refund status within 24 hours after an e-filed return is received. In addition, “Where’s My Refund?" provides a personalized date after the return is processed and a refund is approved.Go paperlessNow more than ever, the safest and best way to file a complete and accurate tax return and get a refund is to file&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2ZpbGluZy9lLWZpbGUtb3B0aW9ucyJ9.IT7nPGZKqezJjh6s4-E8rbjD5hjMmBjXv5MAB74TFB4/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">electronically</a>&nbsp;and use direct deposit. Taxpayers can visit IRS.gov/filing for more details about IRS Free File, Free File Fillable Forms and free tax preparation sites. E-filing is also available through a trusted tax professional.Refund timingWhile most tax refunds are issued within 21 days, some may take longer because the return requires additional review.&nbsp;There are several reasons a tax refund may take long:●The return may include errors or be incomplete.●The return could be affected by identity theft or fraud.●The return includes a claim for the Earned Income Tax Credit or Additional Child Tax Credit.●The time between the IRS issuing the refund and the bank posting it to an account since many banks do not process payments on weekends or holidays.The IRS will contact taxpayers by mail if more information is needed to process a return.&nbsp;Taxpayers claiming the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL3JlY292ZXJ5LXJlYmF0ZS1jcmVkaXQifQ.gO91VovoWtqUT8la4BN7JIAD9evAD55u4245_qeUuKI/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Recovery Rebate Credit</a>&nbsp;on their tax return will not cause a delay in the processing of that tax return. However, it is important that taxpayers claim the correct amount. If a correction is needed, there may be a slight delay in processing the return and the IRS will send a notice explaining any change made. Refunds may be delayed while the IRS makes any necessary corrections.Fast and easy refund updatesTaxpayers can use “Where’s My Refund?” to start checking on the status of their return within 24 hours after the IRS acknowledges receipt of an electronically filed return or four weeks after the taxpayer mails a paper return. The tool’s tracker displays progress through three phases: (1) Return Received; (2) Refund Approved; and (3) Refund Sent. To use it a taxpayer must&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3NhLnd3dzQuaXJzLmdvdi9pcmZvZi9sYW5nL2VuL2lyZm9mZ2V0c3RhdHVzLmpzcCJ9.xpq0RVUP2dez3biliAkHH8sZ7R3cJckwtmd7UqU10Ko/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">enter</a>&nbsp;their Social security number or ITIN (Individual Taxpayer Identification Number) , their filing status and the exact whole dollar amount of their refund. The IRS updates “Where’s My Refund?” once a day, usually overnight, so there’s no need to check more frequently.Calling IRS doesn’t speed up refund timingCalling the IRS won’t expedite a tax refund. The information available on “Where’s My Refund?” is the same information available to IRS telephone assistors.Most taxpayers who want to prepare their own returns can file electronically for free with&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2ZpbGluZy9mcmVlLWZpbGUtZG8teW91ci1mZWRlcmFsLXRheGVzLWZvci1mcmVlIn0.vpdp48YvNjBsFGbs5EP9AUKzfL4zN3XGZAESSpwNKk0/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">IRS Free File</a>. Alternatively, taxpayers who qualify can get&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2luZGl2aWR1YWxzL2ZyZWUtdGF4LXJldHVybi1wcmVwYXJhdGlvbi1mb3IteW91LWJ5LXZvbHVudGVlcnMifQ.AxwZrzq8mJlZiZUWoDNoz51ZEVqlZuHvcf3MeRzyPqA/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">free tax help from trained volunteers</a>&nbsp;at community sites around the country.Ignore refund mythsSome people mistakenly believe they can expedite their refund by ordering a tax transcript, calling the IRS or calling their tax preparer. Ordering a tax transcript will not help a taxpayer get their refund faster or find out when they'll get their refund.Filing optionsTaxpayers can use several options to help find a paid tax preparer. One resource is&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheC1wcm9mZXNzaW9uYWxzL2Nob29zaW5nLWEtdGF4LXByb2Zlc3Npb25hbCJ9.CVpZqJDYhStiJzHje_MqMTONqCqPgwF9Dha1Cld0at0/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Choosing a Tax Professional</a>, which includes a list of consumer tips for selecting a tax professional.The&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vaXJzLnRyZWFzdXJ5Lmdvdi9ycG8vcnBvLmpzZiJ9.t1Dw6GiMz-bXBTRw8ahlIIPr3atNz45fp_hOp4MEwtA/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Directory of Federal Tax Return Preparers with Credentials and Select Qualifications</a>&nbsp;is a free searchable and sortable database. It includes the name, city, state and zip code of credentialed return preparers who are CPAs, enrolled agents or attorneys, as well as those who have completed the requirements for the IRS&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAzMTguMzcyNTcwNDEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3RheC1wcm9mZXNzaW9uYWxzL2FubnVhbC1maWxpbmctc2Vhc29uLXByb2dyYW0ifQ.oWWGz8CM6Md5iD1waqDOjW2P2MnZHo-brWbHLN_u0bM/s/1260222507/br/100300615845-l" target="_blank">Annual Filing Season Program</a>. A search of the database can help taxpayers verify credentials and qualifications of tax professionals.Taxpayers can find answers to questions, forms and instructions and easy-to-use tools online at <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a> anytime. No appointment required and no waiting on hold.

IRS: Use the ‘Where’s My Refund?’ tool or IRS2Go app to check tax refund status

Police are looking for two suspects who used a fraudulent check to purchase items at a local store.

On Wednesday officers with the Salina Police Department were sent to Menards, 805 Virginia Court, for a belated theft report. Store management reported that on Feb. 28, unknown subjects used a fraudulent check to purchase $230 worth of miscellaneous home repair/remodeling items, Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus reported this morning.

The stolen items listed included a stainless steel door protector, door lock kit, boxes of screws, magnetic driver set, package of washers, shower diverter, package of hex nuts, package of machine screws, shower hose, charcoal starter fluid, and a safe.

Store management reported that two subjects gathered the items and proceeded to a checkout lane. While checking out, one of the subjects used a check to pay for the items. The check, allegedly from Owen’s &amp; Son Home Services, was returned to the store as a fraudulent check, Hanus reported.

Both subjects were wearing masks and baseball caps. Both appeared to be white males in their late 20s to 30s. The subjects left in an older dark colored SUV, Hanus noted.

Police are looking for two suspects who used a fraudulent check to purchase items at a local store.On Wednesday officers with the Salina Police Department were sent to Menards, 805 Virginia Court, for a belated theft report. Store management reported that on Feb. 28, unknown subjects used a fraudulent check to purchase $230 worth of miscellaneous home repair/remodeling items, Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus reported this morning.The stolen items listed included a stainless steel door protector, door lock kit, boxes of screws, magnetic driver set, package of washers, shower diverter, package of hex nuts, package of machine screws, shower hose, charcoal starter fluid, and a safe.Store management reported that two subjects gathered the items and proceeded to a checkout lane. While checking out, one of the subjects used a check to pay for the items. The check, allegedly from Owen’s &amp; Son Home Services, was returned to the store as a fraudulent check, Hanus reported.Both subjects were wearing masks and baseball caps. Both appeared to be white males in their late 20s to 30s. The subjects left in an older dark colored SUV, Hanus noted.

SPD looking for suspects who used fraudulent check at local store

A local man with an active warrant now faces additional requested charges after an incident Wednesday afternoon in north Salina.

At approximately 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, an officer with the Salina Police Department recognized Walter C. Shields in the area of North Fourth Street and Forest Avenue, Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus reported this morning. The officer confirmed that Shields had an active warrant. Shields was then arrested, put into handcuffs, searched, and placed in a patrol vehicle.  While in handcuffs, Shields spat on an officer, Hanus noted.

During a search of Shield's property, items recognized as controlled substances were identified, he added.

Shields was arrested and booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges, Hanus reported.

Possession of an opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulant

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616072933978.jpeg" alt="Walter C. Shields. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Walter C. Shields. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A local man with an active warrant now faces additional requested charges after an incident Wednesday afternoon in north Salina.At approximately 3:45 p.m. Wednesday, an officer with the Salina Police Department recognized Walter C. Shields in the area of North Fourth Street and Forest Avenue, Salina Police Captain Gary Hanus reported this morning. The officer confirmed that Shields had an active warrant. Shields was then arrested, put into handcuffs, searched, and placed in a patrol vehicle. While in handcuffs, Shields spat on an officer, Hanus noted.During a search of Shield's property, items recognized as controlled substances were identified, he added.Shields was arrested and booked into the Saline County Jail on the following requested charges, Hanus reported.Battery of a law enforcement officerPossession of an opiate, narcotic, or certain stimulantPossession of marijuanaPossession of drug paraphernaliaNo tax stamp

Man with active warrant faces requested drug, battery charges

Salina Presbyterian Manor recently hosted a come-and-go reception for the winning artists in the annual Art is Ageless® juried competition.

“We are honored to exhibit artwork by seniors,” said Cathy Boos, marketing director. “Art is Ageless is unique in featuring only the works of artists age 65 and older. Our artists prove that art, in any form, is an ageless ambition.”

Winners in the Salina Presbyterian Manor Art is Ageless juried competition were:

Best of Show professional: Craig Boyers, “Feminine Reflections within the Facets of Life’s Oriel”

Best of Show amateur: Jean Fritz, “Irresistible Iris”

People’s Choice amateur: Jan Warren, “Book Shelf Quilt”

People’s Choice professional: Glenn Knak, “Watch Your Tail”

Judge’s Choice amateur: Bill Weaver, “What Choo Lookn At”

Judge’s Choice professional: Robert Peck, “Windward Influence”

Christmas amateur: Dan Norman, “Saint Nick”

Christmas professional: Stan Lauer, “The Christmas Box”

Drawing professional: Craig Boyers, “Feminine Reflections within the Facets of Life’s Oriel”

Fiber Arts amateur: Kenneth Bridges, “Contemplation”

Fiber Arts professional: Janie Tubbs, “Rainbow Bushel Basket XL”

Mixed Media/Crafts amateur: Bill Weaver, “What Choo Lookn At”

Mixed Media/Crafts professional: William Andrews, “Keepsake Box”

Needlework amateur: Phyllis Johnson, “Monthly Calendar”

Needlework professional: Martha Oakes, “13 Days of Halloween”

Painting amateur: Wayne Keeler, “African Wild Dog”

Painting professional: Craig Boyers, “Palingenesis of Pulsars and Planets Part 1”

Photography amateur: Joyce Roe, “Evening Color”

Quilting amateur: Carol Keeler, “Just a Splash of Red”

Quilting professional: Martha Oakes, “Gorgeous Gourds”

Sculpture/3-D professional: Robert Peck, “Windward Influence”

Local competition winners will join winners from 14 other Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America communities to be judged at the masterpiece level. Winning entries at the masterpiece level are selected for publication in PMMA’s annual Art is Ageless calendar and note cards.

Art is Ageless is a copyrighted program of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America. For the competition, works must have been completed in the past five years. Started in 1980, Art is Ageless is an extension of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s wellness programs, which focus on mental, physical, social and spiritual health.

Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s Art is Ageless program encourages Salina 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616079438230.jpeg" alt="Craig Boyers' “Palingenesis of Pulsars and Planets Part 1.” Photos courtesy Salina Presbyterian Manor" />
 <figcaption>Craig Boyers' “Palingenesis of Pulsars and Planets Part 1.” Photos courtesy Salina Presbyterian Manor</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina Presbyterian Manor recently hosted a come-and-go reception for the winning artists in the annual Art is Ageless® juried competition.“We are honored to exhibit artwork by seniors,” said Cathy Boos, marketing director. “Art is Ageless is unique in featuring only the works of artists age 65 and older. Our artists prove that art, in any form, is an ageless ambition.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616079591284.jpeg" alt="Jan Warren's Book Shelf Quilt." />
 <figcaption>Jan Warren's Book Shelf Quilt.</figcaption>
 </figure>Winners in the Salina Presbyterian Manor Art is Ageless juried competition were:Best of Show professional: Craig Boyers, “Feminine Reflections within the Facets of Life’s Oriel”Best of Show amateur: Jean Fritz, “Irresistible Iris”People’s Choice amateur: Jan Warren, “Book Shelf Quilt”People’s Choice professional: Glenn Knak, “Watch Your Tail”Judge’s Choice amateur: Bill Weaver, “What Choo Lookn At”Judge’s Choice professional: Robert Peck, “Windward Influence”Christmas amateur: Dan Norman, “Saint Nick”Christmas professional: Stan Lauer, “The Christmas Box”Drawing professional: Craig Boyers, “Feminine Reflections within the Facets of Life’s Oriel”Fiber Arts amateur: Kenneth Bridges, “Contemplation”Fiber Arts professional: Janie Tubbs, “Rainbow Bushel Basket XL”Mixed Media/Crafts amateur: Bill Weaver, “What Choo Lookn At”Mixed Media/Crafts professional: William Andrews, “Keepsake Box”Needlework amateur: Phyllis Johnson, “Monthly Calendar”Needlework professional: Martha Oakes, “13 Days of Halloween”Painting amateur: Wayne Keeler, “African Wild Dog”Painting professional: Craig Boyers, “Palingenesis of Pulsars and Planets Part 1”Photography amateur: Joyce Roe, “Evening Color”Quilting amateur: Carol Keeler, “Just a Splash of Red”Quilting professional: Martha Oakes, “Gorgeous Gourds”Sculpture/3-D professional: Robert Peck, “Windward Influence”Local competition winners will join winners from 14 other Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America communities to be judged at the masterpiece level. Winning entries at the masterpiece level are selected for publication in PMMA’s annual Art is Ageless calendar and note cards.Art is Ageless is a copyrighted program of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America. For the competition, works must have been completed in the past five years. Started in 1980, Art is Ageless is an extension of Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s wellness programs, which focus on mental, physical, social and spiritual health.Presbyterian Manors of Mid-America’s Art is Ageless program encourages Salina 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.

Salina Presbyterian Manor announces art show winners

If you’re feeling crushed by your student loan debt right now, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. I get that it can feel like a huge burden you’ll never get off your shoulders.

But listen: There’s light at the end of the tunnel! There are plenty of ways to get intense about paying off debt. In addition to getting on a budget, making some extra income with another job or side hustle, selling stuff, cutting back expenses, and working the debt snowball, one option a lot of people use is refinancing.

Let’s talk about what refinancing is, and if it’s a good choice for you. What is student loan refinancing?

Student loan refinancing is the process of switching to a different lender to get a better interest rate or faster payoff—or both. If you qualify, the new lender basically pays off your current loans and gives you a better deal with better terms, which is different from loan consolidation. Refinancing gives you a new rate on a mix of either federal or private student loans, while consolidation means combining your loans, so you only have one payment (it doesn’t actually save you money).&nbsp;

Should you refinance your student loans?

Not all refinancing options are created equal, so you have to be careful about the new terms that you sign up for. You should only refinance your student loans if:

1. It’s totally free to make the change -&nbsp;That means no application fees or origination charges that would cancel out the money you’d save later. If you have to pay to refinance, it’s better to just put all that money toward paying off your debt.

2.&nbsp; You don’t end up with a higher interest rate -&nbsp;The point of a refi is to get a lower interest rate. If you get a lower monthly payment, but a higher interest rate, that defeats the purpose.

3. You don’t get a longer repayment period -&nbsp;That just means you’ll spend more time being in debt, when your goal is to be debt-free as fast as possible.

4. You don’t need a cosigner -&nbsp;Cosigning for a refinance might seem like it makes things easier in the moment. But mixing finances with relationships usually ends up being a pain for everyone involved.

5. You stay motivated to keep paying off debt -&nbsp;When your loan situation gets simpler, it can be tempting to go on autopilot since it feels like some of the weight has been lifted. But that mindset won’t get you out of debt fast.&nbsp;

Still not sure if refinancing is the best money move for you? This&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/recommends/student-loan-refinancing" target="_blank">free two-minute quiz</a>&nbsp;will help you figure out if you qualify to refinance your student loans, and help you find a trusted resource to get the job done!

Anthony ONeal&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of the popular online series “The Table” on his YouTube channel. He has appeared on&nbsp;Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, The Tom Joyner Show and Rachael Ray, among others.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2015, Anthony&nbsp;has served at Ramsey Solutions,&nbsp;where&nbsp;he&nbsp;teaches young adults how to budget, live without debt, avoid student loans, and build real wealth for their future. Follow&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyONeal" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/anthonyoneal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aoneal/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/anthonyoneal" target="_blank">YouTube</a>or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.anthonyoneal.com/" target="_blank">anthonyoneal.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/8/1597852402036.jpeg" alt="Anthony ONeal" />
 <figcaption>Anthony ONeal</figcaption>
 </figure>By ANTHONY ONEALIf you’re feeling crushed by your student loan debt right now, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. I get that it can feel like a huge burden you’ll never get off your shoulders.But listen: There’s light at the end of the tunnel! There are plenty of ways to get intense about paying off debt. In addition to getting on a budget, making some extra income with another job or side hustle, selling stuff, cutting back expenses, and working the debt snowball, one option a lot of people use is refinancing.Let’s talk about what refinancing is, and if it’s a good choice for you. What is student loan refinancing?Student loan refinancing is the process of switching to a different lender to get a better interest rate or faster payoff—or both. If you qualify, the new lender basically pays off your current loans and gives you a better deal with better terms, which is different from loan consolidation. Refinancing gives you a new rate on a mix of either federal or private student loans, while consolidation means combining your loans, so you only have one payment (it doesn’t actually save you money).&nbsp;Should you refinance your student loans?Not all refinancing options are created equal, so you have to be careful about the new terms that you sign up for. You should only refinance your student loans if:1. It’s totally free to make the change -&nbsp;That means no application fees or origination charges that would cancel out the money you’d save later. If you have to pay to refinance, it’s better to just put all that money toward paying off your debt.2.&nbsp; You don’t end up with a higher interest rate -&nbsp;The point of a refi is to get a lower interest rate. If you get a lower monthly payment, but a higher interest rate, that defeats the purpose.3. You don’t get a longer repayment period -&nbsp;That just means you’ll spend more time being in debt, when your goal is to be debt-free as fast as possible.4. You don’t need a cosigner -&nbsp;Cosigning for a refinance might seem like it makes things easier in the moment. But mixing finances with relationships usually ends up being a pain for everyone involved.5. You stay motivated to keep paying off debt -&nbsp;When your loan situation gets simpler, it can be tempting to go on autopilot since it feels like some of the weight has been lifted. But that mindset won’t get you out of debt fast.&nbsp;Still not sure if refinancing is the best money move for you? This&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/recommends/student-loan-refinancing" target="_blank">free two-minute quiz</a>&nbsp;will help you figure out if you qualify to refinance your student loans, and help you find a trusted resource to get the job done!Anthony ONeal&nbsp;is a No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of the popular online series “The Table” on his YouTube channel. He has appeared on&nbsp;Good Morning America, The Tamron Hall Show, The Tom Joyner Show and Rachael Ray, among others.&nbsp;Since&nbsp;2015, Anthony&nbsp;has served at Ramsey Solutions,&nbsp;where&nbsp;he&nbsp;teaches young adults how to budget, live without debt, avoid student loans, and build real wealth for their future. Follow&nbsp;Anthony&nbsp;on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/AnthonyONeal" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/anthonyoneal/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/aoneal/" target="_blank">Facebook</a>and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/anthonyoneal" target="_blank">YouTube</a>or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.anthonyoneal.com/" target="_blank">anthonyoneal.com</a>.

ONEAL: Should you refinance your student loans? 

Qualifying matches end in late March&nbsp;

MANHATTAN – Time is running out for Kansas youth to qualify for the state shooting sports match, scheduled for May 1 in Great Bend.&nbsp;

Shannon Rogge, a 4-H youth development program coordinator, said qualifying ends on March 27 for youth participating in BB gun, air gun and rifle competitions. Youth qualify for state competition based on their scores at local qualifying matches.&nbsp;

“Once qualifying closes, we will announce those that have qualified for the state match,” Rogge said.&nbsp;

The spring state shooting sports match was cancelled a year ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rogge said youth and instructors have been eager to get back to doing what they enjoy.&nbsp;

“There are a lot of programs that practice once a week, but some are practicing twice a week in the evenings to make sure they’re honing their skills and accomplishing the goals they want to,” she said.&nbsp;

The Kansas 4-H shooting sports program is structured to encourage increased safety and responsibility in youth, who learn to appropriately handle firearms and archery equipment. Matches include targets only.&nbsp;

“We have a training program for our volunteers before they go back to the county level and train the youth,” Rogge said. “It is a very structured process so that everybody is meeting those minimum standards.”&nbsp;

She adds: “The certified instructors are the backbone of our program. Youth have to be safe on the firing line, meet the requirements before they are considered safe to go to a match on their own. Those are all standards they have to meet and they learn a lot along the way.”&nbsp;

For information on the Kansas 4-H shooting sports program, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H website</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension agent</a>.

<h2>Qualifying matches end in late March&nbsp;</h2>MANHATTAN – Time is running out for Kansas youth to qualify for the state shooting sports match, scheduled for May 1 in Great Bend.&nbsp;Shannon Rogge, a 4-H youth development program coordinator, said qualifying ends on March 27 for youth participating in BB gun, air gun and rifle competitions. Youth qualify for state competition based on their scores at local qualifying matches.&nbsp;“Once qualifying closes, we will announce those that have qualified for the state match,” Rogge said.&nbsp;The spring state shooting sports match was cancelled a year ago due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Rogge said youth and instructors have been eager to get back to doing what they enjoy.&nbsp;“There are a lot of programs that practice once a week, but some are practicing twice a week in the evenings to make sure they’re honing their skills and accomplishing the goals they want to,” she said.&nbsp;The Kansas 4-H shooting sports program is structured to encourage increased safety and responsibility in youth, who learn to appropriately handle firearms and archery equipment. Matches include targets only.&nbsp;“We have a training program for our volunteers before they go back to the county level and train the youth,” Rogge said. “It is a very structured process so that everybody is meeting those minimum standards.”&nbsp;She adds: “The certified instructors are the backbone of our program. Youth have to be safe on the firing line, meet the requirements before they are considered safe to go to a match on their own. Those are all standards they have to meet and they learn a lot along the way.”&nbsp;For information on the Kansas 4-H shooting sports program, visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansas4-h.org/" target="_blank">Kansas 4-H website</a>, or contact your&nbsp;<a href="http://www.ksre.k-state.edu/about/stateandareamaps.html" target="_blank">local K-State Research and Extension agent</a>.

Kansas youth prepping for state shooting sports match

Today is Thursday, March 18, the 77th day of 2021. There are 288 days left in the year. 

On March 18, 1963, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Gideon v. Wainwright, ruled unanimously that state courts were required to provide legal counsel to criminal defendants who could not afford to hire an attorney on their own. 

In 1910, the first filmed adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein," a silent short produced by Thomas Edison's New York movie studio, was released.

In 1911, Irving Berlin's first major hit, "Alexander's Ragtime Band," was first published by Ted Snyder &amp; Co. of New York.

In 1922, Mohandas K. Gandhi was sentenced in India to six years' imprisonment for civil disobedience. (He was released after serving two years.) 

In 1925, the Tri-State Tornado struck southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, resulting in some 700 deaths. 

In 1937, in America's worst school disaster, nearly 300 people, most of them children, were killed in a natural gas explosion at the New London Consolidated School in Rusk County, Texas. 

In 1940, Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini met at the Brenner Pass, where the Italian dictator agreed to join Germany's war against France and Britain. 

In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order authorizing the War Relocation Authority, which was put in charge of interning Japanese-Americans, with Milton S. Eisenhower (the younger brother of Dwight D. Eisenhower) as its director. 

In 1965, the first spacewalk took place as Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov went outside his Voskhod 2 capsule, secured by a tether. 

In 1974, most of the Arab oil-producing nations ended their 5-month-old embargo against the United States that had been sparked by American support for Israel in the Yom Kippur War.

In 1996, rejecting an insanity defense, a jury in Dedham, Massachusetts, convicted John C. Salvi III of murdering two women in attacks at two Boston-area abortion clinics in December 1994. (Salvi later committed suicide in his prison cell.) 

In 2017, Chuck Berry, rock 'n' roll's founding guitar hero and storyteller who defined the music's joy and rebellion in such classics as "Johnny B. Goode," "Sweet Little Sixteen" and "Roll Over Beethoven," died at his home west of St. Louis at age 90. 

In 2018, Vladimir Putin rolled to a crushing reelection victory for six more years as Russia's president. 

Ten years ago: President Barack Obama demanded that Moammar Gadhafi halt all military attacks on civilians and said that if the Libyan leader did not stand down, the United States would join other nations in launching military action against him. At a massive demonstration against Yemen's government, snipers fired on protesters and police blocked an escape route; dozens were killed, including children. Former Secretary of State Warren M. Christopher died in Los Angeles at 85. Princess Antoinette of Monaco, the late Prince Rainier III's oldest sister and a prominent advocate for animal rights, died at 90.

Five years ago: A jury in St. Petersburg, Florida, sided with ex-pro wrestler Hulk Hogan, awarding him $115 million in compensatory damages in his sex tape lawsuit against Gawker Media. (Three days later, the jury awarded $25 million in punitive damages; Gawker, which ended up going bankrupt, finally settled with Hogan for $31 million.) Police in Brussels captured Europe's most wanted fugitive, Salah Abdeslam, who was the prime suspect in the deadly 2015 Paris attacks. North Korea ignored U.N. resolutions by firing a medium-range ballistic missile into the sea.

One year ago: The U.S. and Canada agreed to temporarily close their shared border to nonessential travel. Describing himself as a "wartime president," President Donald Trump said he would invoke emergency powers to let the government steer production of needed medical supplies by private companies. Trump signed a $100 billion aid package to boost testing for the coronavirus and guarantee sick leave to workers who become ill. As fears of a prolonged recession caused by the virus took hold, the S&amp;P 500 sank 5%; the Dow shed more than 1,300 points and had lost nearly all of the big gains posted since Trump's inauguration.

Today's Birthdays: Composer John Kander is 94. Nobel peace laureate and former South African president F.W. de Klerk is 85. Actor Brad Dourif is 71. Jazz musician Bill Frisell is 70. Singer Irene Cara is 62. Alt-country musician Karen Grotberg (The Jayhawks) is 62. Movie writer-director Luc Besson is 62. Actor Geoffrey Owens is 60. Actor Thomas Ian Griffith is 59. Singer-songwriter James McMurtry is 59. TV personality Mike Rowe is 59. Singer-actor Vanessa L. Williams is 58. Olympic gold medal speedskater Bonnie Blair is 57. Actor David Cubitt is 56. Rock musician Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains) is 55. Rock singer-musician Miki Berenyi is 54. Actor Michael Bergin is 52. Rapper-actor-talk show host Queen Latifah is 51. Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus is 49. Actor-comedian Dane Cook is 49. Country singer Philip Sweet (Little Big Town) is 47. Rock musician Stuart Zender is 47. Singers Evan and Jaron Lowenstein are 47. Actor-singer-dancer Sutton Foster is 46. Rock singer Adam Levine (Maroon 5) is 42. Rock musician Daren Taylor (Airborne Toxic Event) is 41. Olympic gold medal figure skater Alexei Yagudin is 41. Actor Adam Pally is 39. Actor Cornelius Smith Jr. is 39. Actor Duane Henry (TV: "NCIS") is 36. Actor Lily Collins is 32. Actor-dancer Julia Goldani Telles is 26. Actor Ciara Bravo is 24. Actor Blake Garrett Rosenthal is 17.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/11/1573488868914.jpeg" alt="Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a>" />
 <figcaption>Photo of old book courtesy <a href="http://shutterstock.com">shutterstock</a></figcaption>
 </figure>By THE ASSOCIATED PRESSToday is Thursday, March 18, the 77th day of 2021. There are 288 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On March 18, 1963, the U.S. Supreme Court, in Gideon v. Wainwright, ruled unanimously that state courts were required to provide legal counsel to criminal defendants who could not afford to hire an attorney on their own. On this date: In 1910, the first filmed adaptation of Mary Shelley's novel "Frankenstein," a silent short produced by Thomas Edison's New York movie studio, was released.In 1911, Irving Berlin's first major hit, "Alexander's Ragtime Band," was first published by Ted Snyder &amp; Co. of New York.In 1922, Mohandas K. Gandhi was sentenced in India to six years' imprisonment for civil disobedience. (He was released after serving two years.) In 1925, the Tri-State Tornado struck southeastern Missouri, southern Illinois and southwestern Indiana, resulting in some 700 deaths. In 1937, in America's worst school disaster, nearly 300 people, most of them children, were killed in a natural gas explosion at the New London Consolidated School in Rusk County, Texas. In 1940, Adolf Hitler and Benito Mussolini met at the Brenner Pass, where the Italian dictator agreed to join Germany's war against France and Britain. In 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed an executive order authorizing the War Relocation Authority, which was put in charge of interning Japanese-Americans, with Milton S. Eisenhower (the younger brother of Dwight D. Eisenhower) as its director. In 1965, the first spacewalk took place as Soviet cosmonaut Alexei Leonov went outside his Voskhod 2 capsule, secured by a tether. In 1974, most of the Arab oil-producing nations ended their 5-month-old embargo against the United States that had been sparked by American support for Israel in the Yom Kippur War.In 1996, rejecting an insanity defense, a jury in Dedham, Massachusetts, convicted John C. Salvi III of murdering two women in attacks at two Boston-area abortion clinics in December 1994. (Salvi later committed suicide in his prison cell.) In 2017, Chuck Berry, rock 'n' roll's founding guitar hero and storyteller who defined the music's joy and rebellion in such classics as "Johnny B. Goode," "Sweet Little Sixteen" and "Roll Over Beethoven," died at his home west of St. Louis at age 90. In 2018, Vladimir Putin rolled to a crushing reelection victory for six more years as Russia's president. Ten years ago: President Barack Obama demanded that Moammar Gadhafi halt all military attacks on civilians and said that if the Libyan leader did not stand down, the United States would join other nations in launching military action against him. At a massive demonstration against Yemen's government, snipers fired on protesters and police blocked an escape route; dozens were killed, including children. Former Secretary of State Warren M. Christopher died in Los Angeles at 85. Princess Antoinette of Monaco, the late Prince Rainier III's oldest sister and a prominent advocate for animal rights, died at 90.Five years ago: A jury in St. Petersburg, Florida, sided with ex-pro wrestler Hulk Hogan, awarding him $115 million in compensatory damages in his sex tape lawsuit against Gawker Media. (Three days later, the jury awarded $25 million in punitive damages; Gawker, which ended up going bankrupt, finally settled with Hogan for $31 million.) Police in Brussels captured Europe's most wanted fugitive, Salah Abdeslam, who was the prime suspect in the deadly 2015 Paris attacks. North Korea ignored U.N. resolutions by firing a medium-range ballistic missile into the sea.One year ago: The U.S. and Canada agreed to temporarily close their shared border to nonessential travel. Describing himself as a "wartime president," President Donald Trump said he would invoke emergency powers to let the government steer production of needed medical supplies by private companies. Trump signed a $100 billion aid package to boost testing for the coronavirus and guarantee sick leave to workers who become ill. As fears of a prolonged recession caused by the virus took hold, the S&amp;P 500 sank 5%; the Dow shed more than 1,300 points and had lost nearly all of the big gains posted since Trump's inauguration. Today's Birthdays: Composer John Kander is 94. Nobel peace laureate and former South African president F.W. de Klerk is 85. Actor Brad Dourif is 71. Jazz musician Bill Frisell is 70. Singer Irene Cara is 62. Alt-country musician Karen Grotberg (The Jayhawks) is 62. Movie writer-director Luc Besson is 62. Actor Geoffrey Owens is 60. Actor Thomas Ian Griffith is 59. Singer-songwriter James McMurtry is 59. TV personality Mike Rowe is 59. Singer-actor Vanessa L. Williams is 58. Olympic gold medal speedskater Bonnie Blair is 57. Actor David Cubitt is 56. Rock musician Jerry Cantrell (Alice in Chains) is 55. Rock singer-musician Miki Berenyi is 54. Actor Michael Bergin is 52. Rapper-actor-talk show host Queen Latifah is 51. Former White House Chief of Staff Reince Priebus is 49. Actor-comedian Dane Cook is 49. Country singer Philip Sweet (Little Big Town) is 47. Rock musician Stuart Zender is 47. Singers Evan and Jaron Lowenstein are 47. Actor-singer-dancer Sutton Foster is 46. Rock singer Adam Levine (Maroon 5) is 42. Rock musician Daren Taylor (Airborne Toxic Event) is 41. Olympic gold medal figure skater Alexei Yagudin is 41. Actor Adam Pally is 39. Actor Cornelius Smith Jr. is 39. Actor Duane Henry (TV: "NCIS") is 36. Actor Lily Collins is 32. Actor-dancer Julia Goldani Telles is 26. Actor Ciara Bravo is 24. Actor Blake Garrett Rosenthal is 17.

Today in History -- March 18

BOSTON, Mass. -- Cedar Van Tassel, a native of Gypsum, Kansas, has been named to Emerson College's Dean's List for the Fall 2020 semester.

 Van Tassel is majoring in Self-Designed and is a member of the Class of 2021. The requirement to make Emerson's Dean's List is a grade point average of 3.7 or higher.

Based in Boston, Mass., opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city's Theatre District, Emerson College educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through engaged leadership in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning. The College has 3,780 undergraduates and 670 graduate students from across the United States and 50 countries. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty, students participate in more than 90 student organizations and performance groups.

Emerson is known for its experiential learning programs in Los Angeles, Washington, DC, the Netherlands, London, China, and the Czech Republic as well as its new Global Portals, with the first program launching this fall in Paris. The College has an active network of 51,000 alumni who hold leadership positions in communication and the arts. For more information, visit <a href="http://emerson.edu">emerson.edu</a>.

BOSTON, Mass. -- Cedar Van Tassel, a native of Gypsum, Kansas, has been named to Emerson College's Dean's List for the Fall 2020 semester. Van Tassel is majoring in Self-Designed and is a member of the Class of 2021. The requirement to make Emerson's Dean's List is a grade point average of 3.7 or higher.About Emerson CollegeBased in Boston, Mass., opposite the historic Boston Common and in the heart of the city's Theatre District, Emerson College educates individuals who will solve problems and change the world through engaged leadership in communication and the arts, a mission informed by liberal learning. The College has 3,780 undergraduates and 670 graduate students from across the United States and 50 countries. Supported by state-of-the-art facilities and a renowned faculty, students participate in more than 90 student organizations and performance groups.Emerson is known for its experiential learning programs in Los Angeles, Washington, DC, the Netherlands, London, China, and the Czech Republic as well as its new Global Portals, with the first program launching this fall in Paris. The College has an active network of 51,000 alumni who hold leadership positions in communication and the arts. For more information, visit <a href="http://emerson.edu">emerson.edu</a>.

Gypsum's Van Tassel named to Emerson College Dean's List

These positions are full time with benefits. The positions available are:

To apply for these positions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.

Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 270 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923.

Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1610422205593.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>These positions are full time with benefits. The positions available are:· 2nd Shift Service Floater Part Time· 2nd Shift Material Handler/Utility· 1st Material Handler/Utility· 2nd Shift Striper· Quality Assurance Manager· 2nd Shift Service· 2nd Shift Candy MakersCheck out these jobs!To apply for these positions, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>.Russell Stover Chocolates factory and store is located right of I-70 at exit 270 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923.Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

Make your picks in the Salina Pain Clinic Bracket Challenge!

TOPEKA -- Washburn University has announced their 2020-2021 recipients of the WU's Who of Washburn Students award. 

The WU's Who of Washburn Students is one of the most highly regarded and long-standing honors programs at Washburn University. Recipients of this award are engaged on campus, involved in community service and show leadership initiative.

Baylee Wolf, of Lindsborg, was named a WU's Who for campus and community involvement, including Delta Gamma sorority, Leadership Institute, Student Leadership Council, EcoBods, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and various community service events.

Thirty-six students were selected for this award for the 2020-2021 school year. Students are nominated by a faculty or staff member and must have senior status with a 3.0 GPA.

TOPEKA -- Washburn University has announced their 2020-2021 recipients of the WU's Who of Washburn Students award. The WU's Who of Washburn Students is one of the most highly regarded and long-standing honors programs at Washburn University. Recipients of this award are engaged on campus, involved in community service and show leadership initiative.Baylee Wolf, of Lindsborg, was named a WU's Who for campus and community involvement, including Delta Gamma sorority, Leadership Institute, Student Leadership Council, EcoBods, Phi Kappa Phi Honor Society, Alpha Lambda Delta Honor Society and various community service events.Thirty-six students were selected for this award for the 2020-2021 school year. Students are nominated by a faculty or staff member and must have senior status with a 3.0 GPA.--<a href="http://washburn.edu">WU</a>--

Lindsborg's Wolf receives award from Washburn

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.

Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19.

There have been seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 15, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,024.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 157 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>

●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a>

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZa_rZLExDg319g9E5zv0pIIuXpZ6AHN38gcRoPikk-_pbCfAtR1Z2yUn4Cr1Ql9qq08JiWh5SM6U_d8IB4LCKYligbR50xDug&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,904 cases and 4,837 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;

1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;

2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;

3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;

4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;

5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.

6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp;

Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZGjDpwQT7KO13gdNp3oMZaIz1u7M5gDCyAvlWIOz8cMurPaPSNKs3tC4m8sgBDlw3kWVQ9GdqJ_G2V9uwyARAWI3eQWEthvT-&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZVVSMbwHxD0DPv8ImTBcHsB3TDX8L84uW0Px2PFIIw-OwGEUu9j5_uSKmm0o3DAnXgsiD5WMLeKA=&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616019080102.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.Thankfully, no additional deaths due to COVID-19 have been reported since our March 10 update; the total number of our community members who have lost their lives to this deadly virus is 107. Salina Regional Health Center has notified us that they currently have three patients who require hospitalization for COVID-19. There have been seven new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since our last update on March 15, which brings the total number of positive cases for Saline County to 6,024. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 157 cases. At least 5,760 have recovered. Our dashboard has been updated with the latest information:●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/ccad98556b7a46648616706b9f3e9cc4">Mobile Device Users</a>●<a href="https://sacoks.maps.arcgis.com/apps/opsdashboard/index.html#/4c3ee372c5704546b7771da303afd0a7">Desktop Users</a> According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZa_rZLExDg319g9E5zv0pIIuXpZ6AHN38gcRoPikk-_pbCfAtR1Z2yUn4Cr1Ql9qq08JiWh5SM6U_d8IB4LCKYligbR50xDug&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there have been 298,904 cases and 4,837 deaths statewide.

Following the proven public health guidance to slow the spread of COVID-19 continues to be extremely important for everyone to do. Please:&nbsp;1. Wash your hands often, for at least 20 seconds with warm soapy water. Use hand sanitizer if you do not have access to soap and water.&nbsp;2. Maintain physical distance between yourself and others of at least 6 feet or more.&nbsp;3. Wear masks in public spaces as required by City Ordinance and County Resolution. You must cover your nose and mouth for masks to be effective.&nbsp;4. By Public Health Order, gatherings are limited to 50 persons or less (with certain exceptions for establishments).&nbsp;5. Sanitize frequently touched surfaces and areas such as doorknobs, handles, cell phones, tablets, etc.6. Stay home if you are sick. Regardless if you think it may be a cold, it could be allergies, but it also could be something worse.&nbsp; Only follow official sources to obtain information:&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZGjDpwQT7KO13gdNp3oMZaIz1u7M5gDCyAvlWIOz8cMurPaPSNKs3tC4m8sgBDlw3kWVQ9GdqJ_G2V9uwyARAWI3eQWEthvT-&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001BvTQun0PCUPler6F0xFkwM9REG8K7BpgaAMGIXCj35LEuup9uyLGZ_GonNbJz4ZZVVSMbwHxD0DPv8ImTBcHsB3TDX8L84uW0Px2PFIIw-OwGEUu9j5_uSKmm0o3DAnXgsiD5WMLeKA=&amp;c=5VF2J_Lah4SVZOfu_3UajyGva3sIpxL7sToHD6MPo9GSrgzt4s7XvQ==&amp;ch=Ag4DaJGu5dIwuLYtPWwVnr0NZ9nqhm1fn2cWkbY3kF8jqAekq1_5HQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>

Saline County reports 7 new COVID-19 cases; 5,760 of 6,024 recovered

The Kansas Highway Patrol's&nbsp;Women’s History Month Trooper Spotlight looks at&nbsp;Technical Trooper Robyn Arnold. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kshighwayPatrol/">Kansas Highway Patrol</a> Facebook page:

The Kansas Highway Patrol's&nbsp;Women’s History Month Trooper Spotlight looks at&nbsp;Technical Trooper Robyn Arnold. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/kshighwayPatrol/">Kansas Highway Patrol</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FkshighwayPatrol%2Fposts%2F3926769960722013&width=500&show_text=true&height=514&appId" width="500" height="514" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

KHP Trooper Spotlight takes look at Technical Trooper Arnold

March 21-27 is National Poison Prevention Week

TOPEKA – National Poison Prevention Week is just around the corner.&nbsp; The Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind everyone that when life happens, poison centers are ready 24/7 with fast, free advice.

The theme for this year’s National Poison Prevention Week is: Prepare. Prevent. Protect.

Prepare&nbsp;– Save the Poison Control number 1-800-222-1222 in your phone in case of an emergency.

Prevent&nbsp;– More than 90 percent of poisonings happen in the home. To make your home safer, always read and follow directions on labels and keep potential poisons locked up and away in their original containers.

Protect&nbsp;– Seconds count! If you suspect a poisoning, don’t take a chance. Call right away.

Not everyone realizes that poison centers are for everyone. While poison centers get more calls about children, the calls about teens, adults, and older adults tend to be more serious. Nearly 60 percent of calls to the Kansas Poison Control in 2020 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide, and many other types of nonpharmaceutical substances.

“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home. This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or simply have questions,” said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Control Center.

Here are the different ways poison centers save time, worry, lives and money:

When seconds county, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.

Calls are answered by nurses, pharmacists, and doctors. Poison centers can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to poison centers for help every day.

Whether it’s a question or an emergency, poison centers are there with life-saving information when you need it the most.

All calls are free. More than 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.

“It’s also important to know poison centers are not just for emergencies. You can call any time for information or advice from experts to keep your family safe,” said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.

If you think someone has been poisoned, call 800-222-1222 right away. Fast, free, expert help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.GmS8JmmixOEeJ5uuDWZ3dtzn05b7KQL96s18bNJM838/s/1305914394/br/100232669360-l" target="_blank">www.kansashealthsystem.com/poison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pxPGEOOBb-H7Gg12LNuTnP-RpRdzhU-pMKDvdJeKiMU/s/1305914394/br/100232669360-l" target="_blank">www.safekidskansas.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/3/1616011239218.jpeg" alt="&nbsp; Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/openclipart-vectors-30363/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=160024">OpenClipart-Vectors</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=160024">Pixabay</a>" />
 <figcaption>&nbsp; Image by&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/users/openclipart-vectors-30363/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=160024">OpenClipart-Vectors</a>&nbsp;from&nbsp;<a href="https://pixabay.com/?utm_source=link-attribution&amp;utm_medium=referral&amp;utm_campaign=image&amp;utm_content=160024">Pixabay</a></figcaption>
 </figure><h2>March 21-27 is National Poison Prevention Week</h2>TOPEKA – National Poison Prevention Week is just around the corner.&nbsp; The Poison Center at the University of Kansas Health System and Safe Kids Kansas want to remind everyone that when life happens, poison centers are ready 24/7 with fast, free advice.The theme for this year’s National Poison Prevention Week is: Prepare. Prevent. Protect.Prepare&nbsp;– Save the Poison Control number 1-800-222-1222 in your phone in case of an emergency.Prevent&nbsp;– More than 90 percent of poisonings happen in the home. To make your home safer, always read and follow directions on labels and keep potential poisons locked up and away in their original containers.Protect&nbsp;– Seconds count! If you suspect a poisoning, don’t take a chance. Call right away.Not everyone realizes that poison centers are for everyone. While poison centers get more calls about children, the calls about teens, adults, and older adults tend to be more serious. Nearly 60 percent of calls to the Kansas Poison Control in 2020 involved medicines or pharmaceuticals. However, other common poisons include household products, plants, mushrooms, pesticides, animal bites and stings, carbon monoxide, and many other types of nonpharmaceutical substances.“The best piece of advice we can give is to program the Poison Help number, 800-222-1222, in your phone and post it visibly in your home. This way you are prepared in the event of a poisoning emergency or simply have questions,” said Stefanie Baines, education coordinator for the Kansas Poison Control Center.Here are the different ways poison centers save time, worry, lives and money:TimeWhen seconds county, calling a poison center is faster and more accurate than a confusing internet search.WorryCalls are answered by nurses, pharmacists, and doctors. Poison centers can help in more than 150 languages. Doctors and hospitals turn to poison centers for help every day.LivesWhether it’s a question or an emergency, poison centers are there with life-saving information when you need it the most.MoneyAll calls are free. More than 70 percent of people who call get the help they need right where they are – saving the cost of a trip to the doctor or hospital.“It’s also important to know poison centers are not just for emergencies. You can call any time for information or advice from experts to keep your family safe,” said Cherie Sage, state coordinator for Safe Kids Kansas.If you think someone has been poisoned, call 800-222-1222 right away. Fast, free, expert help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.For more information about preventing accidental poisoning visit&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.GmS8JmmixOEeJ5uuDWZ3dtzn05b7KQL96s18bNJM838/s/1305914394/br/100232669360-l" target="_blank">www.kansashealthsystem.com/poison</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.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.pxPGEOOBb-H7Gg12LNuTnP-RpRdzhU-pMKDvdJeKiMU/s/1305914394/br/100232669360-l" target="_blank">www.safekidskansas.org</a>.