Following is the Thursday COVID-19 vaccine update from the Saline County Health Department.

In our ongoing efforts to improve efficiency in scheduling for the COVID-19 vaccine, those who provided an email address at the time of registration will receive an email notice when it is time for them to schedule their appointment.

Not providing an email address does not affect your placement on the list or the timeframe in which you will receive a call to schedule your appointment.

When an appointment is available for you, you will receive an email from Salina Family Healthcare Center with a unique link to schedule your appointment. Please add&nbsp;<a href="mailto:medfrontdesk@salinahealth.org">medfrontdesk@salinahealth.org</a> to your safe list to prevent the email from going to your SPAM or Junk folder.

Scheduling via this link will only be available for a limited time.&nbsp;To avoid missing this opportunity, please do not delay in scheduling this appointment. Sharing your link will hinder your ability to schedule an appointment.&nbsp;&nbsp;

We are aware of the governor’s announcement about the K-12 vaccination program; however, we have not been provided any additional information at this time.

More than 6,500 people who live or work in Saline County have been vaccinated against COVID-19. This marks another important milestone in our community as more people have been vaccinated than have tested positive for the virus.

KDHE has updated their guidance regarding quarantine after vaccination.&nbsp;

Vaccinated persons with an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not required to quarantine if they meet all of the following criteria:

●Are fully vaccinated (i.e., ≥2 weeks following receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series, or ≥2 weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine)

●Are within 3 months following receipt of the last dose in the series

●Have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure&nbsp;

Persons who do not meet all 3 of the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.&nbsp;

As an exception to the above guidance,&nbsp;vaccinated inpatients and residents in healthcare settings should continue to quarantine following an exposure&nbsp;to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19; outpatients should be cared for using appropriate transmission-based precautions. This exception is due to the unknown vaccine effectiveness in this population, the higher risk of severe disease and death, and challenges with social distancing in healthcare settings.&nbsp;

If you believe you are an eligible member of a Phase 2 population and have not yet registered please do so immediately.

If you have already registered, please do not register again.

Senior citizens remain the priority Phase 2 population.

Other Phase 2 populations currently being scheduled for their vaccinations include:

●First responders and law enforcement, and

●City and county critical infrastructure workers.

For more information on how vaccine doses are allocated, please watch the latest edition of FAQ Friday.

Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community.

Unfortunately due to the state allocation process local staff members are unable to tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient and someone will call you as soon as we have vaccine available for you.

You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001d1ci956pVS2I3q4QgQWYcvk_wUQqRtgwOB1qeFNw_DA58Luvnn0WIL25pKnmC5pcFRHAXzywPc5zTiB0uH3Q_UUwXO4TIi_yNFYOPJzlU322SkMIjfSdXNV5Pf7mNhV0bsCoxJpVKe99SGnZitLUE-vgb8Q4UrBGt1M3R5GjD-M=&amp;c=mPl1GR9vbUp1iONiNKDcC1jiSp6B5R6eOHqHFEVk74VTTg6jwJAg7w==&amp;ch=NESCJ3V3rmxjVUo3a0LsFT2st0dCGA5ZrZTyVmRFV0-Wt6yI3Hxxnw==" target="_blank">KansasVaccine.gov data page.</a>

Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center.

Please remember to be cordial with the medical personnel who are working tirelessly to serve the Saline County Community.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Following is the Thursday COVID-19 vaccine update from the Saline County Health Department.In our ongoing efforts to improve efficiency in scheduling for the COVID-19 vaccine, those who provided an email address at the time of registration will receive an email notice when it is time for them to schedule their appointment. Not providing an email address does not affect your placement on the list or the timeframe in which you will receive a call to schedule your appointment. When an appointment is available for you, you will receive an email from Salina Family Healthcare Center with a unique link to schedule your appointment. Please add&nbsp;<a href="mailto:medfrontdesk@salinahealth.org">medfrontdesk@salinahealth.org</a> to your safe list to prevent the email from going to your SPAM or Junk folder. Scheduling via this link will only be available for a limited time.&nbsp;To avoid missing this opportunity, please do not delay in scheduling this appointment. Sharing your link will hinder your ability to schedule an appointment.&nbsp;&nbsp;We are aware of the governor’s announcement about the K-12 vaccination program; however, we have not been provided any additional information at this time.More than 6,500 people who live or work in Saline County have been vaccinated against COVID-19. This marks another important milestone in our community as more people have been vaccinated than have tested positive for the virus.KDHE has updated their guidance regarding quarantine after vaccination.&nbsp; Vaccinated persons with an exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19 are not required to quarantine if they meet all of the following criteria: ●Are fully vaccinated (i.e., ≥2 weeks following receipt of the second dose in a 2-dose series, or ≥2 weeks following receipt of one dose of a single-dose vaccine)●Are within 3 months following receipt of the last dose in the series ●Have remained asymptomatic since the current COVID-19 exposure&nbsp;Persons who do not meet all 3 of the above criteria should continue to follow current quarantine guidance after exposure to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19.&nbsp; As an exception to the above guidance,&nbsp;vaccinated inpatients and residents in healthcare settings should continue to quarantine following an exposure&nbsp;to someone with suspected or confirmed COVID-19; outpatients should be cared for using appropriate transmission-based precautions. This exception is due to the unknown vaccine effectiveness in this population, the higher risk of severe disease and death, and challenges with social distancing in healthcare settings.&nbsp;

If you believe you are an eligible member of a Phase 2 population and have not yet registered please do so immediately.If you have already registered, please do not register again.Senior citizens remain the priority Phase 2 population. Other Phase 2 populations currently being scheduled for their vaccinations include:●K12 teachers and staff,●Childcare workers,●First responders and law enforcement, and●City and county critical infrastructure workers.For more information on how vaccine doses are allocated, please watch the latest edition of FAQ Friday.<div><iframe width="560" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rixmMZOdFXs" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>Vaccine supply remains the primary barrier to vaccinating our community. Unfortunately due to the state allocation process local staff members are unable to tell you when you can expect a vaccine at the time of your registration. Please be patient and someone will call you as soon as we have vaccine available for you. You can track KDHE's weekly vaccination allocation to each county on the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001d1ci956pVS2I3q4QgQWYcvk_wUQqRtgwOB1qeFNw_DA58Luvnn0WIL25pKnmC5pcFRHAXzywPc5zTiB0uH3Q_UUwXO4TIi_yNFYOPJzlU322SkMIjfSdXNV5Pf7mNhV0bsCoxJpVKe99SGnZitLUE-vgb8Q4UrBGt1M3R5GjD-M=&amp;c=mPl1GR9vbUp1iONiNKDcC1jiSp6B5R6eOHqHFEVk74VTTg6jwJAg7w==&amp;ch=NESCJ3V3rmxjVUo3a0LsFT2st0dCGA5ZrZTyVmRFV0-Wt6yI3Hxxnw==" target="_blank">KansasVaccine.gov data page.</a>Those without access to the internet can register via phone or by visiting the Salina Senior Services Center. Please remember to be cordial with the medical personnel who are working tirelessly to serve the Saline County Community.&nbsp;&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613516312548.png" alt="" />
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🎥Saline County update for COVID-19 vaccinations

In 2020, many people joined the gig economy to help make ends meet during the pandemic. Whether it’s a side business or a primary source of income, all taxpayers need to understand how their gig work affects their taxes. The bottom line is taxpayers must report gig economy income on their tax return.

Here's a quick overview of the gig economy:

The gig economy is also referred to as the on-demand, sharing or access economy. People involved in the gig economy earn income as a freelancer, independent worker or employee. They use technology known as online platforms to connect them with customers to provide goods or services. This includes things like renting out a home or spare bedroom and providing delivery services.

Here are some things taxpayers should know about the gig economy and taxes:

•&nbsp;Money earned through this work is usually taxable.

•&nbsp;There are tax implications for both the company providing the platform and the individual performing the services.

•&nbsp;This income is usually taxable even if the: - Taxpayer providing the service doesn't receive an information return, like a Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, Form 1099-K, or Form W-2. - Activity is only part-time or side work. - Taxpayer is paid in cash.

•&nbsp;People working in the gig economy are generally&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL3AxNzc5LnBkZiJ9.LFGhULFdFUcc5MYRvID6nJiMdrkZVVrg706qmVifBvE/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">required to pay</a>: -&nbsp;Income taxes. -&nbsp;Federal Insurance Contribution Act or Self-Employment&nbsp;Contribution Act tax. -&nbsp;Additional Medicare taxes.

• Independent contractors may be able to deduct business expenses. These taxpayers should double check the rules around deducting expenses related to use of things like their car or house. They should remember to keep records of their business expenses.

•&nbsp;Special rules usually apply to rental property also used as a residence during the tax year. Taxpayers should remember that rental income is generally fully taxable.

•&nbsp;Workers who do not have taxes withheld from their pay have two ways to pay their taxes in advance. Here are these two options: -&nbsp;Gig economy workers who have another job where their employer withholds taxes from their paycheck can fill out and submit a new Form W-4. The employee does this to request that the other employer withholds additional taxes from their paycheck. This additional withholding can help cover the taxes owed from their gig economy work. -&nbsp;The gig economy worker can make quarterly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvc21hbGwtYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy1zZWxmLWVtcGxveWVkL2VzdGltYXRlZC10YXhlcyJ9.Xg5WazudbLpMQRFFz7Kh65xLUriv5NEMLaHyYgRTHMg/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">estimated tax payments</a>. They do this to pay their taxes and any self-employment taxes owed throughout the year.

For more information on the gig economy, taxpayers can visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvZ2lnLWVjb25vbXktdGF4LWNlbnRlciJ9.-OMQoQ0DV7-wOXuswuQKmWK4KL6yq3N6yPNCH0oevog/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">Gig Economy Tax Center</a>.

In 2020, many people joined the gig economy to help make ends meet during the pandemic. Whether it’s a side business or a primary source of income, all taxpayers need to understand how their gig work affects their taxes. The bottom line is taxpayers must report gig economy income on their tax return.Here's a quick overview of the gig economy:The gig economy is also referred to as the on-demand, sharing or access economy. People involved in the gig economy earn income as a freelancer, independent worker or employee. They use technology known as online platforms to connect them with customers to provide goods or services. This includes things like renting out a home or spare bedroom and providing delivery services.Here are some things taxpayers should know about the gig economy and taxes:•&nbsp;Money earned through this work is usually taxable. •&nbsp;There are tax implications for both the company providing the platform and the individual performing the services. •&nbsp;This income is usually taxable even if the: - Taxpayer providing the service doesn't receive an information return, like a Form 1099-NEC, Form 1099-MISC, Form 1099-K, or Form W-2. - Activity is only part-time or side work. - Taxpayer is paid in cash.•&nbsp;People working in the gig economy are generally&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjgsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L3B1Yi9pcnMtcGRmL3AxNzc5LnBkZiJ9.LFGhULFdFUcc5MYRvID6nJiMdrkZVVrg706qmVifBvE/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">required to pay</a>: -&nbsp;Income taxes. -&nbsp;Federal Insurance Contribution Act or Self-Employment&nbsp;Contribution Act tax. -&nbsp;Additional Medicare taxes.• Independent contractors may be able to deduct business expenses. These taxpayers should double check the rules around deducting expenses related to use of things like their car or house. They should remember to keep records of their business expenses. •&nbsp;Special rules usually apply to rental property also used as a residence during the tax year. Taxpayers should remember that rental income is generally fully taxable. •&nbsp;Workers who do not have taxes withheld from their pay have two ways to pay their taxes in advance. Here are these two options: -&nbsp;Gig economy workers who have another job where their employer withholds taxes from their paycheck can fill out and submit a new Form W-4. The employee does this to request that the other employer withholds additional taxes from their paycheck. This additional withholding can help cover the taxes owed from their gig economy work. -&nbsp;The gig economy worker can make quarterly&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvc21hbGwtYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy1zZWxmLWVtcGxveWVkL2VzdGltYXRlZC10YXhlcyJ9.Xg5WazudbLpMQRFFz7Kh65xLUriv5NEMLaHyYgRTHMg/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">estimated tax payments</a>. They do this to pay their taxes and any self-employment taxes owed throughout the year.For more information on the gig economy, taxpayers can visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NzY3MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvZ2lnLWVjb25vbXktdGF4LWNlbnRlciJ9.-OMQoQ0DV7-wOXuswuQKmWK4KL6yq3N6yPNCH0oevog/s/1260222507/br/97828516879-l" target="_blank">Gig Economy Tax Center</a>.--<a href="http://irs.gov">IRS</a>--

Taxpayers must report gig economy income on their tax return

Monday through March 5, the Salina Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma with increased enforcement near high schools to raise awareness on roadway safety. 

Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for persons ages 15 to 18 years old in the United States – ahead of all other types of injury, disease, or violence.

Officers will issue citations to any individual who refuses to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for speeding, texting, or failing to buckle up. Adults are asked to remind teens that driving is a privilege and encourage them to learn about the importance of driving safely.

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9f4eabdc-9527-466c-aaa8-d551a9a980ac">Sheriff's office to begin teen traffic safety campaign Monday</a>

Monday through March 5, the Salina Police Department will join other law enforcement agencies in Kansas, Missouri and Oklahoma with increased enforcement near high schools to raise awareness on roadway safety. Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for persons ages 15 to 18 years old in the United States – ahead of all other types of injury, disease, or violence.Officers will issue citations to any individual who refuses to obey the traffic laws, whether it is for speeding, texting, or failing to buckle up. Adults are asked to remind teens that driving is a privilege and encourage them to learn about the importance of driving safely.READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/9f4eabdc-9527-466c-aaa8-d551a9a980ac">Sheriff's office to begin teen traffic safety campaign Monday</a>

SPD to conduct enforcement campaign near high schools

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 1st Shift 5am - 5:30pm

Thursday, Friday and Saturday 2nd Shift is 5pm - 5:30am

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

Russell Stover Chocolates factory is located right off I-70 at exit 272 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="" />
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 </figure>This position is full time with benefitsWork 36 hours get paid for 40Thursday, Friday and Saturday 1st Shift 5am - 5:30pmThursday, Friday and Saturday 2nd Shift is 5pm - 5:30amTo apply for this position, go to&nbsp;<a href="http://www.russellstover.com/careers">www.russellstover.com/careers</a>Russell Stover Chocolates factory is located right off I-70 at exit 272 on the west side of Abilene, Kansas and has been in business nationally since 1923.Russell Stover Chocolates is an equal opportunity employer.

Evergy announces that it has returned to normal operations

TOPEKA — Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson has created a task force to offer guidance and oversight of school districts’ plans for expenditure of federal funds focused on supporting student learning and student needs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.

The Commissioner’s Task Force on Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and Emergency Assistance for Nonpublic Schools (EANS) Funding Oversight is comprised of 19 people, including superintendents, legislators, teachers, local school board members, business managers and private school personnel.

The task force will give direct oversight to $368 million in ESSER II funds and $26 million in EANS funds.

The amount provided to each district varies across the state.

ESSER II funds have to be spent on pandemic-related expenses by September 2023.

The task force will provide oversight and approval of school district plans for expenditure of the ESSER and EANS funds and will be in place until summer 2023.

The group will first meet on Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, to establish protocols and processes. The group will then meet from 3 to 5 p.m. every Friday.

Group members and the positions they hold include the following.

Dr. Mike Argabright, superintendent, Southern Lyon County Unified School District 252.

Brad Bergsma, board member, Goodland USD 352.

Tracy Callard, gifted teacher, Wichita USD 259.

Dr. Nick Compagnone, superintendent, Catholic Diocese of Salina.

Sen. Brenda Dietrich, Kansas Legislature, District 20.

Janet Eaton, superintendent, Catholic Diocese of Wichita.

Dr. Frank Harwood, superintendent, De Soto USD 232.

Roberta Lewis, social science teacher, Fort Scott USD 234.

Lisa Peters, executive director of business, Salina USD 305.

Sen. Pat Pettey, Kansas Legislature, District 6.

Jim Porter, chair, Kansas State Board of Education.

Adam Proffitt, director of budget, State of Kansas.

Melissa Rooker, executive director, Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.

Jamie Rumford, superintendent, Scott County USD 466.

Simeon Russell, executive director of business and operations, Dodge City USD 443.

Rep. Adam Thomas, Kansas Legislature, District 26.

Dr. Alicia Thompson, superintendent, Wichita USD 259.

Janet Waugh, vice chair of the State Board of Education.

Jason Winbolt, school board member, Spring Hill USD 230.

TOPEKA — Kansas Commissioner of Education Dr. Randy Watson has created a task force to offer guidance and oversight of school districts’ plans for expenditure of federal funds focused on supporting student learning and student needs associated with the COVID-19 pandemic.The Commissioner’s Task Force on Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief (ESSER) and Emergency Assistance for Nonpublic Schools (EANS) Funding Oversight is comprised of 19 people, including superintendents, legislators, teachers, local school board members, business managers and private school personnel.The task force will give direct oversight to $368 million in ESSER II funds and $26 million in EANS funds.The amount provided to each district varies across the state.ESSER II funds have to be spent on pandemic-related expenses by September 2023.The task force will provide oversight and approval of school district plans for expenditure of the ESSER and EANS funds and will be in place until summer 2023.The group will first meet on Friday, Feb. 26, 2021, to establish protocols and processes. The group will then meet from 3 to 5 p.m. every Friday.Group members and the positions they hold include the following.Dr. Mike Argabright, superintendent, Southern Lyon County Unified School District 252.Brad Bergsma, board member, Goodland USD 352.Tracy Callard, gifted teacher, Wichita USD 259.Dr. Nick Compagnone, superintendent, Catholic Diocese of Salina.Sen. Brenda Dietrich, Kansas Legislature, District 20.Janet Eaton, superintendent, Catholic Diocese of Wichita.Dr. Frank Harwood, superintendent, De Soto USD 232.Roberta Lewis, social science teacher, Fort Scott USD 234.Lisa Peters, executive director of business, Salina USD 305.Sen. Pat Pettey, Kansas Legislature, District 6.Jim Porter, chair, Kansas State Board of Education.Adam Proffitt, director of budget, State of Kansas.Melissa Rooker, executive director, Kansas Children’s Cabinet and Trust Fund.Jamie Rumford, superintendent, Scott County USD 466.Simeon Russell, executive director of business and operations, Dodge City USD 443.Rep. Adam Thomas, Kansas Legislature, District 26.Dr. Alicia Thompson, superintendent, Wichita USD 259.Janet Waugh, vice chair of the State Board of Education.Jason Winbolt, school board member, Spring Hill USD 230.

Salina's Compagnone, Peters part of school COVID funding task force

OTTAWA&nbsp;– Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz today visited the site of two connecting Kansas State Parks trail systems to announce the awarding of $13.5 million for 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2022-23.

“The projects we announced today will help our communities make the kinds of improvements that will ensure that Kansas remains the best state in the nation to work, live, and raise a family,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“These are projects that make it safer for children to walk and bike to school, they will add sidewalks for Kansans to walk, bike or use a wheelchair, and they continue to build on our efforts to improve access to our state’s many outdoor recreational opportunities.”

The Transportation Alternatives Program funds projects focused almost entirely on planning for and building infrastructure for safe, accessible and connected pedestrian and cycling networks. Becoming a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly state is a top priority for Governor Kelly, KDOT and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism.

“One of my favorite things about being the Secretary of Transportation is getting to talk to Kansans about how transportation improvements can help support the health, education and economic goals of their communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said. “Today we celebrate federal, state and local resources coming together to deliver more for Kansans in all those areas.”

Funds for this program come from the Federal Highway Administration and are currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds surface transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.

Secretary Lorenz said interest in this TA grants cycle was high with 35 applications submitted from eligible project sponsors requesting over $50 million in federal funds. She said KDOT made selections based on criteria such as safety and network improvements, connectivity, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The City of Ottawa, the site of today’s announcement, was used as an example by Governor Kelly to demonstrate how a TA grant will extend and provide greater access to two of the state’s most developed and popular trails, the Prairie Spirit Trail and Flint Hills Trails. KDOT and the KDPWT have worked together to improve the Flint Hills Trail that, once complete, will connect six counties, span from Herrington to Osawatomie, and connect to the Prairie Spirit in Ottawa.

"The improvements to the Flint Hills Trail and many other trails would not be possible without the partnership of KDOT and the Federal Transportation Alternative Program,”&nbsp;KDWPT Secretary Loveless said.&nbsp;“We want to express our gratitude for all the partners in making this vision a reality."

TA funding awarded to KDWPT will be used to eliminate a detour on the Flint Hills Trail just outside of Ottawa that has caused much frustration for travelers. The elimination of this detour covers 2.3 miles of trail and include improvements on three bridges and the construction of another bridge that will cross over the active BNSF railroad tracks.

A full list of TA projects that are selected to receive an award is shown in the table below.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613668387818.png" alt="Governor Laura&nbsp; Kelly announces the 18 projects selected for&nbsp; Transportation Alternatives program funding this morning.&nbsp; Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GovLauraKelly">Governor Laura Kelly</a> Facebook page" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura&nbsp; Kelly announces the 18 projects selected for&nbsp; Transportation Alternatives program funding this morning.&nbsp; Photo courtesy the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/GovLauraKelly">Governor Laura Kelly</a> Facebook page</figcaption>
 </figure>OTTAWA&nbsp;– Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Department of Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz today visited the site of two connecting Kansas State Parks trail systems to announce the awarding of $13.5 million for 18 projects selected for inclusion in its Transportation Alternatives (TA) program for Federal Fiscal Year 2022-23.“The projects we announced today will help our communities make the kinds of improvements that will ensure that Kansas remains the best state in the nation to work, live, and raise a family,”&nbsp;Governor Kelly said.&nbsp;“These are projects that make it safer for children to walk and bike to school, they will add sidewalks for Kansans to walk, bike or use a wheelchair, and they continue to build on our efforts to improve access to our state’s many outdoor recreational opportunities.”The Transportation Alternatives Program funds projects focused almost entirely on planning for and building infrastructure for safe, accessible and connected pedestrian and cycling networks. Becoming a more bicycle and pedestrian-friendly state is a top priority for Governor Kelly, KDOT and the Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism.“One of my favorite things about being the Secretary of Transportation is getting to talk to Kansans about how transportation improvements can help support the health, education and economic goals of their communities,”&nbsp;Secretary Lorenz said. “Today we celebrate federal, state and local resources coming together to deliver more for Kansans in all those areas.”Funds for this program come from the Federal Highway Administration and are currently the primary source of KDOT funding for bicycle and pedestrian projects statewide, including Safe Routes to School. The program also funds surface transportation projects of a historical nature and scenic and environmental projects, including Main Street beautification projects.Secretary Lorenz said interest in this TA grants cycle was high with 35 applications submitted from eligible project sponsors requesting over $50 million in federal funds. She said KDOT made selections based on criteria such as safety and network improvements, connectivity, cost estimates, project readiness, public support and other factors. Each project sponsor must commit to providing at least 20 percent of the cost of the project as a local cash match.&nbsp;&nbsp;The City of Ottawa, the site of today’s announcement, was used as an example by Governor Kelly to demonstrate how a TA grant will extend and provide greater access to two of the state’s most developed and popular trails, the Prairie Spirit Trail and Flint Hills Trails. KDOT and the KDPWT have worked together to improve the Flint Hills Trail that, once complete, will connect six counties, span from Herrington to Osawatomie, and connect to the Prairie Spirit in Ottawa."The improvements to the Flint Hills Trail and many other trails would not be possible without the partnership of KDOT and the Federal Transportation Alternative Program,”&nbsp;KDWPT Secretary Loveless said.&nbsp;“We want to express our gratitude for all the partners in making this vision a reality."TA funding awarded to KDWPT will be used to eliminate a detour on the Flint Hills Trail just outside of Ottawa that has caused much frustration for travelers. The elimination of this detour covers 2.3 miles of trail and include improvements on three bridges and the construction of another bridge that will cross over the active BNSF railroad tracks.A full list of TA projects that are selected to receive an award is shown in the table below.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613668060995.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Salina project included in $13.5M funding for transportation alternatives 

A Salina man was arrested Wednesday afternoon in connection to two theft cases.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that an officer driving by StuJo's Carwash, 120 North Broadway Boulevard, a little after 3 p.m. Wednesday noticed a person and vehicle that matched the description of a person and vehicle involved in a theft from Menards, 805 Virginia Court, on Monday. In that case, the suspect entered the store and left with two Schlage Sense Bluetooth door handle locks, valued at $400. The suspect, described as a male wearing a red Nike hoodie, gray sweatpants, a black hat, and black facemask, left Menards in a silver four-door hatchback station wagon type vehicle, Forrester noted. 

When the officer attempted to make contact with the male subject at StuJo's, the subject left in a 1997 silver Ford Escort station wagon with a temporary tag, disobeying orders from the officer, Forrester explained.

Another officer located the vehicle parked in the alley behind a residence in the 100 block of South 11th Street. According to Forrester, officers made contact with the resident and learned the male subject, identified as Dillon Sonnier, 22, Salina, was hiding inside the house. He was located by officers hiding in a closet. 

Officers then learned that on Jan. 24, other officers responded to Walmart, 2900 South Ninth Street, for the report of a theft. In that case, a subject had taken two barcode stickers from two 10-cent tumbler cups, placed them onto two speakers valued at $288, and purchased those speakers for 20 cents, Forrester explained. The person named as the suspect in that case was Sonnier.

According to Forrester, Sonnier was arrested on the following requested charges. 

Felony theft, two or more prior convictions

Theft by deception, two or more convictions

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613655792892.jpeg" alt="Dillon Sonnier. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Dillon Sonnier. Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A Salina man was arrested Wednesday afternoon in connection to two theft cases.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning that an officer driving by StuJo's Carwash, 120 North Broadway Boulevard, a little after 3 p.m. Wednesday noticed a person and vehicle that matched the description of a person and vehicle involved in a theft from Menards, 805 Virginia Court, on Monday. In that case, the suspect entered the store and left with two Schlage Sense Bluetooth door handle locks, valued at $400. The suspect, described as a male wearing a red Nike hoodie, gray sweatpants, a black hat, and black facemask, left Menards in a silver four-door hatchback station wagon type vehicle, Forrester noted. When the officer attempted to make contact with the male subject at StuJo's, the subject left in a 1997 silver Ford Escort station wagon with a temporary tag, disobeying orders from the officer, Forrester explained.Another officer located the vehicle parked in the alley behind a residence in the 100 block of South 11th Street. According to Forrester, officers made contact with the resident and learned the male subject, identified as Dillon Sonnier, 22, Salina, was hiding inside the house. He was located by officers hiding in a closet. Officers then learned that on Jan. 24, other officers responded to Walmart, 2900 South Ninth Street, for the report of a theft. In that case, a subject had taken two barcode stickers from two 10-cent tumbler cups, placed them onto two speakers valued at $288, and purchased those speakers for 20 cents, Forrester explained. The person named as the suspect in that case was Sonnier.According to Forrester, Sonnier was arrested on the following requested charges. Felony theft, two or more prior convictionsTheft by deception, two or more convictionsInterference with law enforcementDriving while suspendedFailure to stop at stop signImproper signal

Salina man arrested in connection to two local theft cases

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Burns public water supply system, located in Marion County. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.

Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:

●If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.

●Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.

●Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.

●Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.

●Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.

The advisory took effect on February 18 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system. &nbsp;A loss of pressure may lead to inadequate&nbsp;chlorine residuals&nbsp;and&nbsp;bacterial contamination.&nbsp;

Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NjM0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-UhxclIdGSH8nehgZeWioVfleu6RDxPTHH1RIFNxVLs/s/1305935158/br/97818303704-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov" target="_blank">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has issued a boil water advisory for the City of Burns public water supply system, located in Marion County. This advisory is not related to COVID-19.Customers should observe the following precautions until further notice:●If your tap water appears dirty, flush the water lines by letting the water run until it clears.●Boil water for one minute prior to drinking or food preparation or use bottled water.●Dispose of ice cubes and do not use ice from a household automatic ice maker.●Disinfect dishes and other food contact surfaces by immersion for at least one minute in clean tap water that contains one teaspoon of unscented household bleach per gallon of water.●Water used for bathing does not generally need to be boiled. Supervision of children is necessary while bathing so that water is not ingested. Persons with cuts or severe rashes may wish to consult their physicians.The advisory took effect on February 18 and will remain in effect until the conditions that placed the system at risk of bacterial contamination are resolved. KDHE issued the advisory because of a loss of pressure in the distribution system. &nbsp;A loss of pressure may lead to inadequate&nbsp;chlorine residuals&nbsp;and&nbsp;bacterial contamination.&nbsp;Regardless of whether the public water supplier or KDHE announced a boil water advisory, only KDHE can issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.For consumer questions, please contact the water system or KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAyMTguMzU0NjM0MTEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.-UhxclIdGSH8nehgZeWioVfleu6RDxPTHH1RIFNxVLs/s/1305935158/br/97818303704-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>Restaurants and other food establishments that have questions about the impact of the boil water advisory on their business can contact the Kansas Department of Agriculture’s food safety &amp; lodging program at&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="mailto:kda.fsl@ks.gov" target="_blank">kda.fsl@ks.gov</a>&nbsp;or call 785-564-6767.

Boil water advisory issued for City of Burns

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Click&nbsp;<a href="https://salinapost.com/category/obituaries" target="_blank">HERE</a>&nbsp;to view the most recent obituaries and service times from our funeral home partners.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Recent obituaries

The Kansas Department of Transportation has announced employees celebrating state service anniversaries in March. 

"KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas," the department noted in a news release.

Randy Brittain, Environmental Compliance &amp; Regulations Specialist I,&nbsp;Great Bend

Steven Brown, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;Columbus

James Fulkerson, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Benton

Bradley Holzhey, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;Denton

Jason Lawrence, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;Dighton

Alan Perry, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;Clearwater

Matthew Watkins, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;Whiting

Gary Wirtz, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Council Grove

DeeDee Becker, Human Resource Professional II,&nbsp;Salina

Jason Bonar, Applications Developer III,&nbsp;Topeka

Dominick Ciccarelli, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;Lebo

Marty Easley, Equipment Operator Midpoint,&nbsp;Independence

Samantha Linder, Management Analyst I,&nbsp;Topeka

Dallis Schober, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Vermillion

Anthony Thomas, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Prairie View

Robert Tomlinson, Engineering Technician Midpoint,&nbsp;Great Bend

The Kansas Department of Transportation has announced employees celebrating state service anniversaries in March. "KDOT is proud to acknowledge them for the long-term dedication they have provided to the state of Kansas," the department noted in a news release.Those celebrating 30 yearsRandy Brittain, Environmental Compliance &amp; Regulations Specialist I,&nbsp;Great BendThose celebrating 20 yearsSteven Brown, Equipment Operator Senior,&nbsp;ColumbusJames Fulkerson, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;BentonBradley Holzhey, Equipment Mechanic Specialist,&nbsp;DentonJason Lawrence, Highway Maintenance Supervisor,&nbsp;DightonAlan Perry, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;ClearwaterMatthew Watkins, Highway Maintenance Superintendent,&nbsp;WhitingGary Wirtz, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;Council GroveThose celebrating 10 yearsDeeDee Becker, Human Resource Professional II,&nbsp;SalinaJason Bonar, Applications Developer III,&nbsp;TopekaDominick Ciccarelli, Engineering Technician,&nbsp;LeboMarty Easley, Equipment Operator Midpoint,&nbsp;IndependenceSamantha Linder, Management Analyst I,&nbsp;TopekaDallis Schober, Equipment Operator Specialist,&nbsp;VermillionAnthony Thomas, Equipment Operator,&nbsp;Prairie ViewRobert Tomlinson, Engineering Technician Midpoint,&nbsp;Great Bend

KDOT employees celebrate service anniversaries

Last year, we dealt with a lot of unknowns because of the coronavirus situation. Taxes were no exception. From the federal tax deadline being moved up to new legislation being passed, there were loopholes coming at us left and right.

Now that the dust is starting to settle, let’s get some clarity about what we can expect on our 2020 tax returns. That way, we can remain in control and focus our energy on making our financial dreams a reality. Here are four unique situations you need to be aware of:

Maybe you lost your job, or a loved one got sick with COVID-19, and you needed a lot of cash—fast. I hope you didn’t find yourself in this situation, but if you decided to drain your 401(k) to pay for life’s expenses, you need to be aware of the tax implications.

Although the CARES Act did waive the 10% penalty for early 401(k) withdrawals, you will still owe income tax on any money you took out. However, you can avoid paying the IRS if you return the money you withdrew within three years and file for an amended return.<a href="https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/hr748/BILLS-116hr748enr.pdf" target="_blank">1</a>&nbsp;

Here’s what I suggest. As quickly as you can, put that money back in your 401(k). Avoid paying those income taxes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;get your future financial dreams back on track.&nbsp;

Unemployment benefits count as taxable income. When receiving unemployment benefits, you can opt to have 10% withheld for income tax purposes. You can also pay quarterly estimated taxes on your benefits, so you’re not hit with a big tax bill all at once. But if you haven’t paid income tax on your unemployment benefits yet, be aware they’re due on April 15.

The Trump Administration signed an executive order allowing employers to defer Social Security taxes from Sept. 1-Dec. 31, 2020.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-11.pdf" target="_blank">2</a>&nbsp;If your company opted in, you saw a 6.2% increase in your paycheck during those months—which was a nice cushion at the time.&nbsp;

But there’s one word we need to pay attention to:&nbsp;deferred. Uncle Sam won’t forget! Those taxes will need to be repaid during January - April of 2021, so expect a smaller paycheck during these months.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-11.pdf" target="_blank">3</a>&nbsp;If you’re wondering about the specifics, schedule a meeting with your human resources department.&nbsp;

Last year, a lot of people took on part-time work or started a side hustle when things got tight. If you’re in that boat, you’ll owe state income taxes, as well as the federal self-employment tax of 15.3% (if you made more than $400 in self-employment income in 2020).<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/self-employed-individuals-tax-center" target="_blank">4</a>&nbsp;You’ll probably receive 1099 forms from the people you worked for and you’ll need to fill out a Schedule SE form to report any other self-employment income you made. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes for the year, the IRS wants you to pay quarterly estimated taxes.

A good rule of thumb for contract and self-employed work is to set aside 25 to 30% of every paycheck for taxes.

I’ve tried to make this as simple as possible, but the reality is, taxes are always confusing. If you’re wondering whether you should self-file, or work with a tax professional,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/elp/tax-preparation" target="_blank">take our five-minute quiz</a>&nbsp;to learn the best way for you to file this year.

Chris Hogan&nbsp;is a two-time No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Chris Hogan Show. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, Fox Business, Yahoo! Finance, and the&nbsp;Rachael Ray Show.&nbsp;Since 2005, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he gives practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth. Follow Chris on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrishogan360/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChrisHogan360" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chrishogan360.com/" target="_blank">chrishogan360.com</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1598993777573.jpeg" alt="Chris Hogan" />
 <figcaption>Chris Hogan</figcaption>
 </figure>By CHRIS HOGANLast year, we dealt with a lot of unknowns because of the coronavirus situation. Taxes were no exception. From the federal tax deadline being moved up to new legislation being passed, there were loopholes coming at us left and right.Now that the dust is starting to settle, let’s get some clarity about what we can expect on our 2020 tax returns. That way, we can remain in control and focus our energy on making our financial dreams a reality. Here are four unique situations you need to be aware of:A 401(k) withdrawalMaybe you lost your job, or a loved one got sick with COVID-19, and you needed a lot of cash—fast. I hope you didn’t find yourself in this situation, but if you decided to drain your 401(k) to pay for life’s expenses, you need to be aware of the tax implications.Although the CARES Act did waive the 10% penalty for early 401(k) withdrawals, you will still owe income tax on any money you took out. However, you can avoid paying the IRS if you return the money you withdrew within three years and file for an amended return.<a href="https://www.congress.gov/116/bills/hr748/BILLS-116hr748enr.pdf" target="_blank">1</a>&nbsp;Here’s what I suggest. As quickly as you can, put that money back in your 401(k). Avoid paying those income taxes,&nbsp;and&nbsp;get your future financial dreams back on track.&nbsp;Unemployment benefitsUnemployment benefits count as taxable income. When receiving unemployment benefits, you can opt to have 10% withheld for income tax purposes. You can also pay quarterly estimated taxes on your benefits, so you’re not hit with a big tax bill all at once. But if you haven’t paid income tax on your unemployment benefits yet, be aware they’re due on April 15.Deferred payroll taxesThe Trump Administration signed an executive order allowing employers to defer Social Security taxes from Sept. 1-Dec. 31, 2020.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-11.pdf" target="_blank">2</a>&nbsp;If your company opted in, you saw a 6.2% increase in your paycheck during those months—which was a nice cushion at the time.&nbsp;But there’s one word we need to pay attention to:&nbsp;deferred. Uncle Sam won’t forget! Those taxes will need to be repaid during January - April of 2021, so expect a smaller paycheck during these months.<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-drop/n-21-11.pdf" target="_blank">3</a>&nbsp;If you’re wondering about the specifics, schedule a meeting with your human resources department.&nbsp;Contract workLast year, a lot of people took on part-time work or started a side hustle when things got tight. If you’re in that boat, you’ll owe state income taxes, as well as the federal self-employment tax of 15.3% (if you made more than $400 in self-employment income in 2020).<a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/self-employed-individuals-tax-center" target="_blank">4</a>&nbsp;You’ll probably receive 1099 forms from the people you worked for and you’ll need to fill out a Schedule SE form to report any other self-employment income you made. If you expect to owe more than $1,000 in taxes for the year, the IRS wants you to pay quarterly estimated taxes.A good rule of thumb for contract and self-employed work is to set aside 25 to 30% of every paycheck for taxes.I’ve tried to make this as simple as possible, but the reality is, taxes are always confusing. If you’re wondering whether you should self-file, or work with a tax professional,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.daveramsey.com/elp/tax-preparation" target="_blank">take our five-minute quiz</a>&nbsp;to learn the best way for you to file this year.Chris Hogan&nbsp;is a two-time No. 1 national best-selling author, financial expert and host of&nbsp;The Chris Hogan Show. He is a frequent guest on Fox News, Fox Business, Yahoo! Finance, and the&nbsp;Rachael Ray Show.&nbsp;Since 2005, Hogan has served at Ramsey Solutions, where he gives practical money advice on retirement, investing and building wealth. Follow Chris on&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Twitter</a>,<a href="https://www.instagram.com/chrishogan360/" target="_blank">&nbsp;Instagram</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/chrishogan360" target="_blank">Facebook</a>, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/ChrisHogan360" target="_blank">YouTube</a>&nbsp;or online at&nbsp;<a href="https://www.chrishogan360.com/" target="_blank">chrishogan360.com</a>.

HOGAN: Four ways 2020 might impact your tax return

Today is Thursday, Feb. 18, the 49th day of 2021. There are 316 days left in the year. 

On Feb. 18, 1970, the "Chicago Seven" defendants were found not guilty of conspiring to incite riots at the 1968 Democratic national convention; five were convicted of violating the Anti-Riot Act of 1968 (those convictions were later reversed). 

In 1546, Martin Luther, leader of the Protestant Reformation in Germany, died in Eisleben. 

In 1564, artist Michelangelo died in Rome. 

In 1930, photographic evidence of Pluto (now designated a "dwarf planet") was discovered by Clyde W. Tombaugh at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. 

In 1943, Madame Chiang Kai-shek, wife of the Chinese leader, addressed members of the Senate and then the House, becoming the first Chinese national to address both houses of the U.S. Congress. 

In 1960, the 8th Winter Olympic Games were formally opened in Squaw Valley, California, by Vice President Richard M. Nixon.

In 1967, American theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer died in Princeton, New Jersey, at age 62.

In 1972, the California Supreme Court struck down the state's death penalty.

In 1983, 13 people were shot to death at a gambling club in Seattle's Chinatown in what became known as the Wah Mee Massacre. (Two men were convicted of the killings and are serving life sentences; a third was found guilty of robbery and assault.) 

In 1988, Anthony M. Kennedy was sworn in as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. 

In 1997, astronauts on the space shuttle Discovery completed their tune-up of the Hubble Space Telescope after 33 hours of spacewalking; the Hubble was then released using the shuttle's crane. 

In 2001, veteran FBI agent Robert Philip Hanssen was arrested, accused of spying for Russia. (Hanssen later pleaded guilty to espionage and attempted espionage and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.) Auto racing star Dale Earnhardt Sr. died in a crash at the Daytona 500; he was 49. 

In 2003, an arson attack involving two South Korean subway trains in the city of Daegu claimed 198 lives. (The arsonist was sentenced to life in prison, where he died in 2004.) 

Ten years ago: The United States vetoed a U.N. resolution that would have condemned Israeli settlements as illegal and called for a halt in all settlement building; the 14 other Security Council members voted in favor of the measure.

Five years ago: In what was seen as a criticism of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, Pope Francis said that a person who advocated building walls was "not Christian"; Trump quickly retorted it was "disgraceful" to question a person's faith. (A Vatican spokesman said the next day that the pope's comment was not intended as a "personal attack" on Trump.) Dallas-based Heritage Auctions said a rare copy of a comic book featuring the first appearance of Spider-Man had been sold to an anonymous collector for $454,100.

One year ago: Japanese health authorities confirmed 88 more cases of the coronavirus aboard the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess, bringing the number of cases on board to 542; U.S. officials said Americans who chose to remain on board could not return home for at least two weeks after coming ashore. Health officials in the Chinese city of Wuhan announced that a hospital director who'd mobilized the hospital's resources to deal with the thousands of sick people arriving daily had died from the virus. President Donald Trump commuted the 14-year prison sentence of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich for political corruption; Blagojevich left prison hours later and returned home to Chicago. (Trump also issued pardons or clemency to former New York City police commissioner Bernie Kerik, financier Michael Milken, and a long list of others.) The Boy Scouts of America filed for bankruptcy protection in the first step toward creating a huge compensation fund for men who were molested as youngsters decades ago by scoutmasters or other leaders; the organization urged victims to come forward.

Today's Birthdays: Former Sen. John Warner, R-Va., is 94. Singer Yoko Ono is 88. Singer-songwriter Bobby Hart is 82. Singer Irma Thomas is 80. Singer Herman Santiago (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 80. Actor Jess Walton is 75. Singer Dennis DeYoung is 74. Actor Sinead Cusack is 73. Actor Cybill Shepherd is 71. Singer Randy Crawford is 69. Rock musician Robbie Bachman is 68. Actor John Travolta is 67. Actor John Pankow is 66. Game show host Vanna White is 64. Actor Jayne Atkinson is 62. Actor Greta Scacchi is 61. Actor Matt Dillon is 57. Rock musician Tommy Scott (Space) is 57. Rapper Dr. Dre is 56. Actor Molly Ringwald is 53. Actor Sarah Brown is 46. Country musician Trevor Rosen (Old Dominion) is 46. Actor Ike Barinholtz is 44. Actor Kristoffer Polaha is 44. Singer-musician Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek) is 44. Rock-singer musician Regina Spektor is 41. Opera singer Isabel Leonard is 39. Roots rock musician Zac Cockrell (Alabama Shakes) is 33. Actor Shane Lyons is 33. Actor Sarah Sutherland is 33. Actor Maiara Walsh is 33.

<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, Feb. 18, the 49th day of 2021. There are 316 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Feb. 18, 1970, the "Chicago Seven" defendants were found not guilty of conspiring to incite riots at the 1968 Democratic national convention; five were convicted of violating the Anti-Riot Act of 1968 (those convictions were later reversed). On this date: In 1546, Martin Luther, leader of the Protestant Reformation in Germany, died in Eisleben. In 1564, artist Michelangelo died in Rome. In 1930, photographic evidence of Pluto (now designated a "dwarf planet") was discovered by Clyde W. Tombaugh at Lowell Observatory in Flagstaff, Arizona. In 1943, Madame Chiang Kai-shek, wife of the Chinese leader, addressed members of the Senate and then the House, becoming the first Chinese national to address both houses of the U.S. Congress. In 1960, the 8th Winter Olympic Games were formally opened in Squaw Valley, California, by Vice President Richard M. Nixon.In 1967, American theoretical physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer died in Princeton, New Jersey, at age 62.In 1972, the California Supreme Court struck down the state's death penalty.In 1983, 13 people were shot to death at a gambling club in Seattle's Chinatown in what became known as the Wah Mee Massacre. (Two men were convicted of the killings and are serving life sentences; a third was found guilty of robbery and assault.) In 1988, Anthony M. Kennedy was sworn in as an associate justice of the U.S. Supreme Court. In 1997, astronauts on the space shuttle Discovery completed their tune-up of the Hubble Space Telescope after 33 hours of spacewalking; the Hubble was then released using the shuttle's crane. In 2001, veteran FBI agent Robert Philip Hanssen was arrested, accused of spying for Russia. (Hanssen later pleaded guilty to espionage and attempted espionage and was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole.) Auto racing star Dale Earnhardt Sr. died in a crash at the Daytona 500; he was 49. In 2003, an arson attack involving two South Korean subway trains in the city of Daegu claimed 198 lives. (The arsonist was sentenced to life in prison, where he died in 2004.) Ten years ago: The United States vetoed a U.N. resolution that would have condemned Israeli settlements as illegal and called for a halt in all settlement building; the 14 other Security Council members voted in favor of the measure.Five years ago: In what was seen as a criticism of Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, Pope Francis said that a person who advocated building walls was "not Christian"; Trump quickly retorted it was "disgraceful" to question a person's faith. (A Vatican spokesman said the next day that the pope's comment was not intended as a "personal attack" on Trump.) Dallas-based Heritage Auctions said a rare copy of a comic book featuring the first appearance of Spider-Man had been sold to an anonymous collector for $454,100.One year ago: Japanese health authorities confirmed 88 more cases of the coronavirus aboard the quarantined cruise ship Diamond Princess, bringing the number of cases on board to 542; U.S. officials said Americans who chose to remain on board could not return home for at least two weeks after coming ashore. Health officials in the Chinese city of Wuhan announced that a hospital director who'd mobilized the hospital's resources to deal with the thousands of sick people arriving daily had died from the virus. President Donald Trump commuted the 14-year prison sentence of former Illinois Gov. Rod Blagojevich for political corruption; Blagojevich left prison hours later and returned home to Chicago. (Trump also issued pardons or clemency to former New York City police commissioner Bernie Kerik, financier Michael Milken, and a long list of others.) The Boy Scouts of America filed for bankruptcy protection in the first step toward creating a huge compensation fund for men who were molested as youngsters decades ago by scoutmasters or other leaders; the organization urged victims to come forward. Today's Birthdays: Former Sen. John Warner, R-Va., is 94. Singer Yoko Ono is 88. Singer-songwriter Bobby Hart is 82. Singer Irma Thomas is 80. Singer Herman Santiago (Frankie Lymon and the Teenagers) is 80. Actor Jess Walton is 75. Singer Dennis DeYoung is 74. Actor Sinead Cusack is 73. Actor Cybill Shepherd is 71. Singer Randy Crawford is 69. Rock musician Robbie Bachman is 68. Actor John Travolta is 67. Actor John Pankow is 66. Game show host Vanna White is 64. Actor Jayne Atkinson is 62. Actor Greta Scacchi is 61. Actor Matt Dillon is 57. Rock musician Tommy Scott (Space) is 57. Rapper Dr. Dre is 56. Actor Molly Ringwald is 53. Actor Sarah Brown is 46. Country musician Trevor Rosen (Old Dominion) is 46. Actor Ike Barinholtz is 44. Actor Kristoffer Polaha is 44. Singer-musician Sean Watkins (Nickel Creek) is 44. Rock-singer musician Regina Spektor is 41. Opera singer Isabel Leonard is 39. Roots rock musician Zac Cockrell (Alabama Shakes) is 33. Actor Shane Lyons is 33. Actor Sarah Sutherland is 33. Actor Maiara Walsh is 33.

Today in History -- Feb. 18

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is giving incoming fall 2021 undergraduate students more time to apply for admission and still be considered for general university scholarships and awards. The university's undergraduate priority application date for its Manhattan, Polytechnic, and Olathe campuses has been extended to March 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/" target="_blank">Applying by the priority date</a>&nbsp;allows future freshmen and transfer students to maximize their consideration for general university scholarships and awards, including K-State's test-optional scholarships and awards for incoming U.S. freshmen. "K-State understands the uncertainty created by the pandemic, and we want to provide the extra time needed to assist with completing the application for admission," said Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management. Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as admission to the university will also grant students access to apply for additional scholarships through the K-State Scholarship Network, or KSN, by the same priority date of March 15. Students can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/" target="_blank">apply for admission online</a>&nbsp;and can also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/aid/scholarships/future-students/" target="_blank">preview scholarship opportunities</a>&nbsp;available to them. Questions about the admission application can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:apply@k-state.edu" target="_blank">apply@k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

MANHATTAN — Kansas State University is giving incoming fall 2021 undergraduate students more time to apply for admission and still be considered for general university scholarships and awards. The university's undergraduate priority application date for its Manhattan, Polytechnic, and Olathe campuses has been extended to March 15.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/" target="_blank">Applying by the priority date</a>&nbsp;allows future freshmen and transfer students to maximize their consideration for general university scholarships and awards, including K-State's test-optional scholarships and awards for incoming U.S. freshmen. "K-State understands the uncertainty created by the pandemic, and we want to provide the extra time needed to assist with completing the application for admission," said Karen Goos, vice provost for enrollment management. Students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as admission to the university will also grant students access to apply for additional scholarships through the K-State Scholarship Network, or KSN, by the same priority date of March 15. Students can&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/admissions/undergrad/manhattan/apply/" target="_blank">apply for admission online</a>&nbsp;and can also&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/sfa/aid/scholarships/future-students/" target="_blank">preview scholarship opportunities</a>&nbsp;available to them. Questions about the admission application can be directed to&nbsp;<a href="mailto:apply@k-state.edu" target="_blank">apply@k-state.edu</a>.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;

K-State extends fall undergraduate priority admission date

Economists give early estimate and projections for 2021

MANHATTAN – Kansas farms appear to be moving out of the shadow of the global pandemic, according to two Kansas State University agricultural economists.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

Ad hoc government payments made because of the pandemic and higher than expected grain prices since last summer boosted average estimates for 2020 Kansas net farm income to $137,000, a 7% increase over $128,000 the previous year. &nbsp;

Even though 2020 is past, the $137,000 is still an estimate. K-State economists will not have final numbers from the KFMA until the end of May. &nbsp;

The outlook is a far cry from what was expected late last spring. In May 2020, an initial estimate of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma" target="_blank">Kansas Farm Management Association</a>&nbsp;net farm income was produced, said K-State associate professor Gregg Ibendahl. Using KFMA member farms as a baseline at that time, K-State economists predicted an 87% drop in net farm income. &nbsp;

KFMA member farmers work with agricultural economists across the state to enhance members’ production and financial management skills. &nbsp;

“At the time, COVID-19 was starting to spread across the U.S. and the economic effect on much of the country was devastating,” Ibendahl said. “Prices for both grains and livestock had dropped, leading to questions about how severe the crisis might be for farmers.”&nbsp;

Since then, the profitability outlook changed course on two key developments, according to Ibendahl, an agricultural economist with K-State Research and Extension. First, the USDA announced programs to help both livestock and grain producers affected by the pandemic. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) provided $23.6 billion to producers through the first two rounds of the program. Additionally, grain prices rose last summer and are now at levels not seen since before the pandemic. &nbsp;

In developing their estimates, Ibendahl and extension agricultural economist Dan O’Brien addressed seven major areas, including yields, prices, crop acres, expenses, crop insurance, government payments from the farm bill, and CFAP or ad hoc government payments. Each area was projected down to the farm level to estimate net farm income for each of the 588 KFMA grain farms for 2020 and 2021. &nbsp;

Their full preliminary report issued Feb. 3 is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma/research-articles/preliminary-estimate-2020-kansas-net-farm-income-and-projection-2021" target="_blank">available online</a>. A more complete analysis of 2020 Kansas net farm income based on KFMA data will be available this spring. &nbsp;

“While it originally appeared that COVID-19 was going to play havoc with net farm income, the average grain farm at least will come through the year (2020) with higher profitability,” Ibendahl said, but noted that not all farms will weather the market effects of the pandemic as well as the average grain farm. &nbsp;

The economists projected that net farm income in 2021 could increase another 35% to $185,000, based on futures prices. Those projections are uncertain, however, and hinge at least in part on whether futures prices translate to actual higher farm prices and if rainfall amounts are normal enough to allow for average yields.&nbsp;

The team also cautioned that the western United States is in a La Nina drought, so the prospect of average yields is questionable. In addition, higher grain prices tend to lead to higher expenses for fuel, fertilizer and seeds, which could cut into farm profitability. &nbsp;

An Agriculture Today podcast featuring Ibendahl speaking on this topic, plus other speakers and topics is&nbsp;<a href="https://agtodayksu.libsyn.com/2021-net-farm-income-projectionsnew-wheat-and-sorghum-research" target="_blank">available online</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/2/1613594003681.jpeg" alt="Harvest photo courtesy KSRE" />
 <figcaption>Harvest photo courtesy KSRE</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Economists give early estimate and projections for 2021</h2>MANHATTAN – Kansas farms appear to be moving out of the shadow of the global pandemic, according to two Kansas State University agricultural economists.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Ad hoc government payments made because of the pandemic and higher than expected grain prices since last summer boosted average estimates for 2020 Kansas net farm income to $137,000, a 7% increase over $128,000 the previous year. &nbsp;Even though 2020 is past, the $137,000 is still an estimate. K-State economists will not have final numbers from the KFMA until the end of May. &nbsp;The outlook is a far cry from what was expected late last spring. In May 2020, an initial estimate of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma" target="_blank">Kansas Farm Management Association</a>&nbsp;net farm income was produced, said K-State associate professor Gregg Ibendahl. Using KFMA member farms as a baseline at that time, K-State economists predicted an 87% drop in net farm income. &nbsp;KFMA member farmers work with agricultural economists across the state to enhance members’ production and financial management skills. &nbsp;“At the time, COVID-19 was starting to spread across the U.S. and the economic effect on much of the country was devastating,” Ibendahl said. “Prices for both grains and livestock had dropped, leading to questions about how severe the crisis might be for farmers.”&nbsp;Since then, the profitability outlook changed course on two key developments, according to Ibendahl, an agricultural economist with K-State Research and Extension. First, the USDA announced programs to help both livestock and grain producers affected by the pandemic. The Coronavirus Food Assistance Program (CFAP) provided $23.6 billion to producers through the first two rounds of the program. Additionally, grain prices rose last summer and are now at levels not seen since before the pandemic. &nbsp;In developing their estimates, Ibendahl and extension agricultural economist Dan O’Brien addressed seven major areas, including yields, prices, crop acres, expenses, crop insurance, government payments from the farm bill, and CFAP or ad hoc government payments. Each area was projected down to the farm level to estimate net farm income for each of the 588 KFMA grain farms for 2020 and 2021. &nbsp;Their full preliminary report issued Feb. 3 is&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/kfma/research-articles/preliminary-estimate-2020-kansas-net-farm-income-and-projection-2021" target="_blank">available online</a>. A more complete analysis of 2020 Kansas net farm income based on KFMA data will be available this spring. &nbsp;“While it originally appeared that COVID-19 was going to play havoc with net farm income, the average grain farm at least will come through the year (2020) with higher profitability,” Ibendahl said, but noted that not all farms will weather the market effects of the pandemic as well as the average grain farm. &nbsp;The economists projected that net farm income in 2021 could increase another 35% to $185,000, based on futures prices. Those projections are uncertain, however, and hinge at least in part on whether futures prices translate to actual higher farm prices and if rainfall amounts are normal enough to allow for average yields.&nbsp;The team also cautioned that the western United States is in a La Nina drought, so the prospect of average yields is questionable. In addition, higher grain prices tend to lead to higher expenses for fuel, fertilizer and seeds, which could cut into farm profitability. &nbsp;An Agriculture Today podcast featuring Ibendahl speaking on this topic, plus other speakers and topics is&nbsp;<a href="https://agtodayksu.libsyn.com/2021-net-farm-income-projectionsnew-wheat-and-sorghum-research" target="_blank">available online</a>.&nbsp;--KSRE--

Kansas net farm income climbed in 2020; 2021 looks promising

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<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611761229655.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Riverview Estates in Marquette is now hiring for career minded people who care about their jobs.We are now hiring for a full time RN or LPN and full time CNA's and offering a sign on bonus for these positions. A full time Laundry Aide position is also available.Please apply in person at 202 S. Washington in Marquette or download an application at&nbsp;<a href="http://riverviewestatesks.com/">riverviewestatesks.com</a>. Call 785-546-2211 to inquire!Riverview Estates in Marquette, where we care for your family like one of our family. Join our team today!

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