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

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="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </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.

Dickinson Co. District Court offices to close for temporary relocation

MCPHERSON COUNTY -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 41 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the county total to 2,889.

Of that total, 1,693 cases have either met recovery guidelines or have died, and 16 of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.

Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.

• New cases since last public release: 41

• Deaths: 50 -Male: 86, 90, 96, 78, 90, 81, 66, 39, 91, 92, 52, 80, 30, 72, 82, 88, 85, 77, 89, 82, 78, 64, 85, 86, 48, 87, 92, 61, 85, 80, 81, 61, 88 -Female: 92, 89, 94, 66, 82, 91, 84, 90, 89, 81, 62, 83, 62, 98, 81, 84, 80

MCPHERSON COUNTY -- The McPherson County Health Department today reported 41 new confirmed COVID-19 cases, bringing the county total to 2,889.Of that total, 1,693 cases have either met recovery guidelines or have died, and 16 of the active cases are hospitalized, the health department noted.Following is the updated case data as provided by the health department.• New cases since last public release: 41• Asymptomatic: 63• Unknown exposure: 1365• Cases 60 years old and above: 903• Cases 50-59 years old: 404• Cases 40-49 years old: 367• Cases 30-39 years old: 361• Cases 18-29 years old: 573• Cases under 18 years old: 281• Female cases: 1527• Male cases: 1362• Total hospitalizations: 112• Total ventilated cases: 16• Deaths: 50 -Male: 86, 90, 96, 78, 90, 81, 66, 39, 91, 92, 52, 80, 30, 72, 82, 88, 85, 77, 89, 82, 78, 64, 85, 86, 48, 87, 92, 61, 85, 80, 81, 61, 88 -Female: 92, 89, 94, 66, 82, 91, 84, 90, 89, 81, 62, 83, 62, 98, 81, 84, 80

McPherson County reports 41 new cases of COVID-19

Saline County has announced that it will begin Phase 2 of COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday.

At this time, only residents age 65 and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine, according to information released this afternoon by the Saline County Health Department.

"Local health experts determined that due to their high mortality and hospitalization rate that senior citizens are the highest priority group included in Phase 2," the health department noted.

After approximately a third of the over-65 population has been vaccinated, the community health partners will evaluate the ability to move to the next step of Phase 2, according to the health department. Phase 2 also includes high-contact critical workers and those in congregate settings, the health department explained.

"Phases and priority groups within each phase will be determined by supply and demand – not time. Phases will move forward as quickly as possible," the health department noted.

A temporary vaccination location has been set up in the former JC Penney store in the Central Mall to allow the community health partners a single site from which to operate with minimal impact on daily operations, the health department noted.

Vaccines will be given by appointment only and will only be available to those over 65 years old and those in Phase 1 who have yet to be vaccinated.

Due to the limited number of vaccines provided to Saline County each week, mandatory waiting time, vaccine storage requirements, social distancing protocols, and staffing challenges, there will be no walk-in appointments, the health department explained.

Appointment scheduling is only available online. Appointments cannot be taken over the phone or in person at this time.

The county website to sign up for vaccinations is scheduled to be available at 10 a.m. Friday.

Persons under age 65 or those who have not been told they are in Phase 1 are urged to not make appointments at this time.

"Appointments will open up as vaccines become available," the health department noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611271366268.png" alt="Image provided by Saline County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Image provided by Saline County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>Saline County has announced that it will begin Phase 2 of COVID-19 vaccinations on Monday.At this time, only residents age 65 and older will be eligible to receive the vaccine, according to information released this afternoon by the Saline County Health Department."Local health experts determined that due to their high mortality and hospitalization rate that senior citizens are the highest priority group included in Phase 2," the health department noted.After approximately a third of the over-65 population has been vaccinated, the community health partners will evaluate the ability to move to the next step of Phase 2, according to the health department. Phase 2 also includes high-contact critical workers and those in congregate settings, the health department explained."Phases and priority groups within each phase will be determined by supply and demand – not time. Phases will move forward as quickly as possible," the health department noted.A temporary vaccination location has been set up in the former JC Penney store in the Central Mall to allow the community health partners a single site from which to operate with minimal impact on daily operations, the health department noted.Vaccines will be given by appointment only and will only be available to those over 65 years old and those in Phase 1 who have yet to be vaccinated.Due to the limited number of vaccines provided to Saline County each week, mandatory waiting time, vaccine storage requirements, social distancing protocols, and staffing challenges, there will be no walk-in appointments, the health department explained.Appointment scheduling is only available online. Appointments cannot be taken over the phone or in person at this time.The county website to sign up for vaccinations is scheduled to be available at 10 a.m. Friday.Persons under age 65 or those who have not been told they are in Phase 1 are urged to not make appointments at this time."Appointments will open up as vaccines become available," the health department noted.

Local COVID-19 vaccinations moving to Phase 2 on Monday

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of six state universities in Kansas will have more flexibility in deciding to suspend or fire employees, including tenured faculty, under a temporary policy approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.

The regents said Thursday that the new policy, which will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2022, was necessary because of costs associated with the coronavirus pandemic, a reduction in state funding and declining enrollment. Last week, Gov. Laura Kelly released a budget that included a $27 million cut for higher education.

The board gave CEOs of the universities 45 days to create frameworks they would use to determine whether to suspend, dismiss or fire employees. The frameworks could include factors such as performance evaluations, productivity, low enrollment or reduction in revenues for departments and schools.

Aleksander Sternfeld-Dunn, a Wichita State University associate professor representing the Council of Faculty Senate Presidents, told the regents the new policy essentially suspends tenure and will damage faculty morale, “which is already struggling under the pressures of teaching during the pandemic.”

“We also believe it will open up universities to potential abuses of power and could lead to numerous lawsuits around discrimination and harassment,” he said. “We believe that the policy as stated is really using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, and we think there are far more positive ways to go about managing financial difficulties.”

Under the policy, an employee will have the right to appeal a decision by a CEO affecting their employment, with the burden of proof on the employee. After the CEO responds to the appeal, the state’s Office of Administrative Hearings would have a hearing and make a final decision.

The board would reverse a CEO’s decision only if it was inconsistent with the university’s decision-making framework, was the result of bias or discrimination or was “otherwise unreasonable, arbitrary or capricious.”

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Leaders of six state universities in Kansas will have more flexibility in deciding to suspend or fire employees, including tenured faculty, under a temporary policy approved by the Kansas Board of Regents.The regents said Thursday that the new policy, which will be in effect until Dec. 31, 2022, was necessary because of costs associated with the coronavirus pandemic, a reduction in state funding and declining enrollment. Last week, Gov. Laura Kelly released a budget that included a $27 million cut for higher education.The board gave CEOs of the universities 45 days to create frameworks they would use to determine whether to suspend, dismiss or fire employees. The frameworks could include factors such as performance evaluations, productivity, low enrollment or reduction in revenues for departments and schools.Aleksander Sternfeld-Dunn, a Wichita State University associate professor representing the Council of Faculty Senate Presidents, told the regents the new policy essentially suspends tenure and will damage faculty morale, “which is already struggling under the pressures of teaching during the pandemic.”“We also believe it will open up universities to potential abuses of power and could lead to numerous lawsuits around discrimination and harassment,” he said. “We believe that the policy as stated is really using a sledgehammer to crack a nut, and we think there are far more positive ways to go about managing financial difficulties.”Under the policy, an employee will have the right to appeal a decision by a CEO affecting their employment, with the burden of proof on the employee. After the CEO responds to the appeal, the state’s Office of Administrative Hearings would have a hearing and make a final decision.The board would reverse a CEO’s decision only if it was inconsistent with the university’s decision-making framework, was the result of bias or discrimination or was “otherwise unreasonable, arbitrary or capricious.”

Regents give university CEOs more power to fire employees

SculptureTour Salina plans to announce its latest winner on Friday, and you can watch it live!

The winner of the 2020 People's Choice Award is scheduled to be announced at 11 a.m. Friday on SculptureTour Salina's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sculpturetoursalina">Facebook page</a>.

"The SculptureTour Salina People's Choice program was such a fun and exciting competition this year! This was the first time we had so many local artists enter the competition, and the votes were very close! It was fun to see the community get behind the People's Choice program and get out and vote," said Penny Bettles, executive director of Salina Downtown, Inc.

To see all of the 2020 sculptures, <a href="https://www.sculpturetoursalina.net/copy-of-2019-sculptures">click here</a>.

SculptureTour Salina is an annual juried competition and exhibition. Approximately 20 sculptures are selected and carefully sited in downtown Salina. The sculptures remain installed for one year. 

To date, 41 sculptures have been purchased or donated, including works purchased by the City of Salina through the People's Choice Award initiative. The city designates up to $15,000 for the purchase of the People's Choice Award winner. The sculpture is then installed in a public environment within the community selected by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities along with the SculptureTour Salina committee.

Previous People's Choice Award winners include the following.

2011 -- Watch Dog by Louise Peterson, Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden

2012 -- Sweet Kisses by Marianne Caroselli, Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden

2013 -- Farmer by Lawrence Starck, downtown Salina's Campbell Plaza

2014 -- Next Up by James Haire, KWU tennis courts

2015 -- Daughters of Peace by Benjamin Victor, second floor of the City-County Building

2016 -- Slim by Dale Lewis, Tony's Pizza Events Center

2017 -- Picasso's Violin by Jodie Bliss, The Salina Innovation Foundation

2018 -- Patches by Dale Lewis, outside The Smoky Hill Museum

2019 -- Wheat Harvest by James Mages, in front of the City-County Building

"SculptureTour Salina is entering its 11th year," Bettles said. "We had some big hopes and dreams for the 10th anniversary of the program, but much like everything else, COVID-19 put a stop to that. However, we decided to move forward with the outdoor exhibit and give the community something fun and safe they could continue to look forward to, and we're happy we did."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611255717235.png" alt="Some of the 2020 sculptures. Photos courtesy SculptureTour Salina" />
 <figcaption>Some of the 2020 sculptures. Photos courtesy SculptureTour Salina</figcaption>
 </figure>SculptureTour Salina plans to announce its latest winner on Friday, and you can watch it live!The winner of the 2020 People's Choice Award is scheduled to be announced at 11 a.m. Friday on SculptureTour Salina's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sculpturetoursalina">Facebook page</a>."The SculptureTour Salina People's Choice program was such a fun and exciting competition this year! This was the first time we had so many local artists enter the competition, and the votes were very close! It was fun to see the community get behind the People's Choice program and get out and vote," said Penny Bettles, executive director of Salina Downtown, Inc.To see all of the 2020 sculptures, <a href="https://www.sculpturetoursalina.net/copy-of-2019-sculptures">click here</a>.SculptureTour Salina is an annual juried competition and exhibition. Approximately 20 sculptures are selected and carefully sited in downtown Salina. The sculptures remain installed for one year. To date, 41 sculptures have been purchased or donated, including works purchased by the City of Salina through the People's Choice Award initiative. The city designates up to $15,000 for the purchase of the People's Choice Award winner. The sculpture is then installed in a public environment within the community selected by Salina Arts &amp; Humanities along with the SculptureTour Salina committee.Previous People's Choice Award winners include the following.2011 -- Watch Dog by Louise Peterson, Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden2012 -- Sweet Kisses by Marianne Caroselli, Oakdale Park Sculpture Garden2013 -- Farmer by Lawrence Starck, downtown Salina's Campbell Plaza2014 -- Next Up by James Haire, KWU tennis courts2015 -- Daughters of Peace by Benjamin Victor, second floor of the City-County Building2016 -- Slim by Dale Lewis, Tony's Pizza Events Center2017 -- Picasso's Violin by Jodie Bliss, The Salina Innovation Foundation2018 -- Patches by Dale Lewis, outside The Smoky Hill Museum2019 -- Wheat Harvest by James Mages, in front of the City-County Building"SculptureTour Salina is entering its 11th year," Bettles said. "We had some big hopes and dreams for the 10th anniversary of the program, but much like everything else, COVID-19 put a stop to that. However, we decided to move forward with the outdoor exhibit and give the community something fun and safe they could continue to look forward to, and we're happy we did."

SculptureTour Salina to announce 2020 People's Choice winner Friday

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for USD 306 Southeast Saline School.

The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to an equipment failure. A failure to maintain adequate pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.

Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.

Laboratory testing samples collected from USD 306 Southeast Saline School indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;

For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjEuMzM3MDczODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.mqeV6H-t6uuItUlvpmqipDKR1O_dCeDa16FchLxmngU/s/1305935158/br/93429113582-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

TOPEKA –&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has rescinded a boil water advisory for USD 306 Southeast Saline School.The advisory was issued because of a loss of pressure in the system due to an equipment failure. A failure to maintain adequate pressure can lead to a loss of chlorine residuals and bacterial contamination.Public water suppliers in Kansas take all measures necessary to notify customers quickly after a system failure or shutdown. Regardless of whether it’s the supplier or KDHE that announces a boil water advisory, KDHE will issue the rescind order following testing at a certified laboratory.Laboratory testing samples collected from USD 306 Southeast Saline School indicate no evidence of bacteriological contamination and all other conditions that placed the system at risk of contamination are deemed by KDHE officials to be resolved. &nbsp;For consumer questions, please contact the water system or you may call KDHE at 785-296-5514. For consumer information please visit KDHE’s PWS Consumer Information webpage:&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMDAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjEuMzM3MDczODEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwOi8vd3d3LmtkaGVrcy5nb3YvcHdzL2VtZXJnZW5jeXJlc3BvbnNlL3dhdGVyX2Rpc3J1cHRpb24uaHRtP3V0bV9tZWRpdW09ZW1haWwmdXRtX3NvdXJjZT1nb3ZkZWxpdmVyeSJ9.mqeV6H-t6uuItUlvpmqipDKR1O_dCeDa16FchLxmngU/s/1305935158/br/93429113582-l" target="_blank">http://www.kdheks.gov/pws/emergencyresponse/water_disruption.htm</a>

Boil water advisory rescinded for USD 306 Southeast Saline

One person was injured in a two-vehicle accident early Wednesday afternoon in south Salina.

Anthony Williams, 25, of Salina, was northbound in a 2007 Mercedes Benz in the 3400 block of South Ninth Street and waiting to turn when a northbound Ford F150 pickup driven by a 16-year-old Salina boy struck the rear of the Mercedes Benz, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The accident occurred at approximately 12:40 p.m.

Williams was treated by paramedics and then went to Salina Regional Health Center on his own, Forrester noted.

According to Forrester, the teenage boy was cited for driver's license and following too closely, and Williams was cited for ignition interlock.

One person was injured in a two-vehicle accident early Wednesday afternoon in south Salina.Anthony Williams, 25, of Salina, was northbound in a 2007 Mercedes Benz in the 3400 block of South Ninth Street and waiting to turn when a northbound Ford F150 pickup driven by a 16-year-old Salina boy struck the rear of the Mercedes Benz, Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester reported this morning. The accident occurred at approximately 12:40 p.m.Williams was treated by paramedics and then went to Salina Regional Health Center on his own, Forrester noted.Both vehicles were towed from the scene.According to Forrester, the teenage boy was cited for driver's license and following too closely, and Williams was cited for ignition interlock.

One person injured in two-vehicle accident in south Salina

MINNEAPOLIS -- The Bennington State Bank (BSB) has announced the hiring of Damon McKinney as loan officer at the BSB Minneapolis location. 

As Loan Officer, McKinney will assist with administering credit needs and opportunities in the Minneapolis and surrounding markets. McKinney brings over 20 years of professional experience in the insurance industry and is a graduate of Kansas State University.

“I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to work at BSB as a loan officer. Serving the Minneapolis and surrounding community is very important to me,” said McKinney, who is a long-time resident of Minneapolis. I’m honored to be a part of the Bennington State Bank. BSB has a great presence in our community and is known as being a local business that invests in their community.”

McKinney’s experience and dedication to customers and community make him the perfect complement to BSB’s progressive lending focus.

“Damon brings an extremely high level of professionalism and community focus to the BSB team that will be very beneficial to our customers,” said Ryan McMillan, VP of the Bennington State Bank Minneapolis location.

For 130 years, BSB has been proudly serving central Kansas with deep roots in the Agricultural and Commercial sectors, as well as becoming a leading hometown bank for Consumers. BSB is locally owned, managed and staffed and has grown to one of the largest independent banks in Kansas with locations in Salina, Bennington, Minneapolis, Lucas, Sylvan Grove, Abilene, and Wamego. For more information visit www.bsbks.com. Member FDIC.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611197025487.jpeg" alt="Damon McKinney. Photo courtesy BSB" />
 <figcaption>Damon McKinney. Photo courtesy BSB</figcaption>
 </figure>MINNEAPOLIS -- The Bennington State Bank (BSB) has announced the hiring of Damon McKinney as loan officer at the BSB Minneapolis location. As Loan Officer, McKinney will assist with administering credit needs and opportunities in the Minneapolis and surrounding markets. McKinney brings over 20 years of professional experience in the insurance industry and is a graduate of Kansas State University.“I’m extremely excited for the opportunity to work at BSB as a loan officer. Serving the Minneapolis and surrounding community is very important to me,” said McKinney, who is a long-time resident of Minneapolis. I’m honored to be a part of the Bennington State Bank. BSB has a great presence in our community and is known as being a local business that invests in their community.”McKinney’s experience and dedication to customers and community make him the perfect complement to BSB’s progressive lending focus.“Damon brings an extremely high level of professionalism and community focus to the BSB team that will be very beneficial to our customers,” said Ryan McMillan, VP of the Bennington State Bank Minneapolis location.About Bennington State BankFor 130 years, BSB has been proudly serving central Kansas with deep roots in the Agricultural and Commercial sectors, as well as becoming a leading hometown bank for Consumers. BSB is locally owned, managed and staffed and has grown to one of the largest independent banks in Kansas with locations in Salina, Bennington, Minneapolis, Lucas, Sylvan Grove, Abilene, and Wamego. For more information visit www.bsbks.com. Member FDIC.

Bennington State Bank announces new loan officer

No school on Friday for USD 305 students. Teachers have a work day scheduled. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD305/">USD 305</a>&nbsp;Facebook page:

No school on Friday for USD 305 students. Teachers have a work day scheduled. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/USD305/">USD 305</a>&nbsp;Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FUSD305%2Fposts%2F3644602955588169&width=500&show_text=true&height=245&appId" width="500" height="245" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen="true" allow="autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; picture-in-picture; web-share"></iframe></div>

No school for USD 305 students on Friday

Today is Thursday, Jan. 21, the 21st day of 2021. There are 344 days left in the year. 

On Jan. 21, 2020, the U.S. reported its first known case of the new virus circulating in China, saying a Washington state resident who had returned the previous week from the outbreak's epicenter was hospitalized near Seattle; U.S. officials stressed that they believed the overall risk of the virus to the American public remained low. 

In 1793, during the French Revolution, King Louis XVI, condemned for treason, was executed on the guillotine. 

In 1915, the first Kiwanis Club, dedicated to community service, was founded in Detroit.

In 1924, Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin died at age 53. 

In 1942, pinball machines were banned in New York City after a court ruled they were gambling devices that relied on chance rather than skill (the ban was lifted in 1976).

In 1954, the first atomic submarine, the USS Nautilus, was launched at Groton, Connecticut (however, the Nautilus did not make its first nuclear-powered run until nearly a year later). 

In 1976, British Airways and Air France inaugurated scheduled passenger service on the supersonic Concorde jet. 

In 1977, on his first full day in office, President Jimmy Carter pardoned almost all Vietnam War draft evaders. 

In 1997, Speaker Newt Gingrich was reprimanded and fined as the House voted for the first time in history to discipline its leader for ethical misconduct. 

In 2003, the Census Bureau announced that Hispanics had surpassed blacks as America's largest minority group. 

In 2007, Lovie Smith became the first Black head coach to make it to the Super Bowl when his Chicago Bears won the NFC championship, beating the New Orleans Saints 39-14; Tony Dungy became the second when his Indianapolis Colts took the AFC title over the New England Patriots, 38-34. 

In 2010, a bitterly divided U.S. Supreme Court, in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, vastly increased the power of big business and labor unions to influence government decisions by freeing them to spend their millions directly to sway elections for president and Congress. Former Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards finally admitted fathering a daughter during an affair before his second White House bid.

In 2019, first-term senator and former California attorney general Kamala Harris entered the Democratic presidential race. (Harris would withdraw from the race in December; she would be chosen the following August as the party's vice presidential nominee.) A light aircraft carrying Argentine soccer player Emiliano Sala to his new team in Wales went missing over the English Channel. (Sala's body was recovered from the wreckage two weeks later.) 

Ten years ago: Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, seriously wounded in a shooting rampage, was transferred from the University Medical Center trauma center in Tucson to Texas Medical Center in Houston to undergo months of therapy. President Barack Obama visited Schenectady, New York, the birthplace of the General Electric Co., to declare that his job was "putting our economy into overdrive." South Korean special forces stormed a hijacked freighter in the Arabian Sea, rescuing all 21 crew members and killing eight Somali pirates. Ed Mauser, the oldest living member of a 101st Airborne Division company that became known as the "Band of Brothers" during World War II, died in Omaha, Nebraska, at age 94.

Five years ago: The Obama administration tightened restrictions on European and other travelers who had visited Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan in the previous five years. Daniel Holtzclaw, a former police officer convicted of raping and sexually victimizing women while on his beat in a low-income Oklahoma City neighborhood, was ordered to spend the rest of his life in prison.

One year ago: A rancorous dispute over rules marked the first full day of President Donald Trump's Senate impeachment trial; Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell added an extra day for opening arguments and agreed that evidence from the House impeachment proceedings would be included in the record. Terry Jones, a founding member of the Monty Python comedy troupe, died at his London home at the age of 77 after suffering from dementia. Derek Jeter came within one vote of being a unanimous pick for baseball's Hall of Fame, while Larry Walker earned baseball's highest honor in his last chance on the ballot. Heavy metal music legend Ozzy Osbourne announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.

Today's Birthdays: World Golf Hall of Famer Jack Nicklaus is 81. Opera singer-conductor Placido Domingo is 80. Actor Jill Eikenberry is 74. Country musician Jim Ibbotson is 74. Singer-songwriter Billy Ocean is 71. Former U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke is 71. Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder is 70. Actor-director Robby Benson is 65. Actor Geena Davis is 65. Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., is 60. Basketball Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon is 58. Actor Charlotte Ross is 53. Actor John Ducey is 52. Actor Karina Lombard is 52. Actor Ken Leung is 51. Rock musician Mark Trojanowski (Sister Hazel) is 51. Rock singer-songwriter Cat Power is 49. Rock DJ Chris Kilmore (Incubus) is 48. Actor Vincent Laresca is 47. Singer Emma Bunton (Spice Girls) is 45. Actor Jerry Trainor is 44. Country singer Phil Stacey is 43. R&amp;B singer Nokio is 42. Actor Izabella Miko is 40. Actor Luke Grimes is 37. Actor Feliz Ramirez is 29.

<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, Jan. 21, the 21st day of 2021. There are 344 days left in the year. Today's Highlight in History: On Jan. 21, 2020, the U.S. reported its first known case of the new virus circulating in China, saying a Washington state resident who had returned the previous week from the outbreak's epicenter was hospitalized near Seattle; U.S. officials stressed that they believed the overall risk of the virus to the American public remained low. On this date: In 1793, during the French Revolution, King Louis XVI, condemned for treason, was executed on the guillotine. In 1915, the first Kiwanis Club, dedicated to community service, was founded in Detroit.In 1924, Russian revolutionary Vladimir Lenin died at age 53. In 1942, pinball machines were banned in New York City after a court ruled they were gambling devices that relied on chance rather than skill (the ban was lifted in 1976).In 1954, the first atomic submarine, the USS Nautilus, was launched at Groton, Connecticut (however, the Nautilus did not make its first nuclear-powered run until nearly a year later). In 1976, British Airways and Air France inaugurated scheduled passenger service on the supersonic Concorde jet. In 1977, on his first full day in office, President Jimmy Carter pardoned almost all Vietnam War draft evaders. In 1997, Speaker Newt Gingrich was reprimanded and fined as the House voted for the first time in history to discipline its leader for ethical misconduct. In 2003, the Census Bureau announced that Hispanics had surpassed blacks as America's largest minority group. In 2007, Lovie Smith became the first Black head coach to make it to the Super Bowl when his Chicago Bears won the NFC championship, beating the New Orleans Saints 39-14; Tony Dungy became the second when his Indianapolis Colts took the AFC title over the New England Patriots, 38-34. In 2010, a bitterly divided U.S. Supreme Court, in Citizens United v. Federal Election Commission, vastly increased the power of big business and labor unions to influence government decisions by freeing them to spend their millions directly to sway elections for president and Congress. Former Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards finally admitted fathering a daughter during an affair before his second White House bid.In 2019, first-term senator and former California attorney general Kamala Harris entered the Democratic presidential race. (Harris would withdraw from the race in December; she would be chosen the following August as the party's vice presidential nominee.) A light aircraft carrying Argentine soccer player Emiliano Sala to his new team in Wales went missing over the English Channel. (Sala's body was recovered from the wreckage two weeks later.) Ten years ago: Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, seriously wounded in a shooting rampage, was transferred from the University Medical Center trauma center in Tucson to Texas Medical Center in Houston to undergo months of therapy. President Barack Obama visited Schenectady, New York, the birthplace of the General Electric Co., to declare that his job was "putting our economy into overdrive." South Korean special forces stormed a hijacked freighter in the Arabian Sea, rescuing all 21 crew members and killing eight Somali pirates. Ed Mauser, the oldest living member of a 101st Airborne Division company that became known as the "Band of Brothers" during World War II, died in Omaha, Nebraska, at age 94.Five years ago: The Obama administration tightened restrictions on European and other travelers who had visited Iran, Iraq, Syria or Sudan in the previous five years. Daniel Holtzclaw, a former police officer convicted of raping and sexually victimizing women while on his beat in a low-income Oklahoma City neighborhood, was ordered to spend the rest of his life in prison.One year ago: A rancorous dispute over rules marked the first full day of President Donald Trump's Senate impeachment trial; Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell added an extra day for opening arguments and agreed that evidence from the House impeachment proceedings would be included in the record. Terry Jones, a founding member of the Monty Python comedy troupe, died at his London home at the age of 77 after suffering from dementia. Derek Jeter came within one vote of being a unanimous pick for baseball's Hall of Fame, while Larry Walker earned baseball's highest honor in his last chance on the ballot. Heavy metal music legend Ozzy Osbourne announced that he had been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.Today's Birthdays: World Golf Hall of Famer Jack Nicklaus is 81. Opera singer-conductor Placido Domingo is 80. Actor Jill Eikenberry is 74. Country musician Jim Ibbotson is 74. Singer-songwriter Billy Ocean is 71. Former U.S. Ambassador to China Gary Locke is 71. Former U.S. Attorney General Eric Holder is 70. Actor-director Robby Benson is 65. Actor Geena Davis is 65. Sen. Kevin Cramer, R-N.D., is 60. Basketball Hall of Famer Hakeem Olajuwon is 58. Actor Charlotte Ross is 53. Actor John Ducey is 52. Actor Karina Lombard is 52. Actor Ken Leung is 51. Rock musician Mark Trojanowski (Sister Hazel) is 51. Rock singer-songwriter Cat Power is 49. Rock DJ Chris Kilmore (Incubus) is 48. Actor Vincent Laresca is 47. Singer Emma Bunton (Spice Girls) is 45. Actor Jerry Trainor is 44. Country singer Phil Stacey is 43. R&amp;B singer Nokio is 42. Actor Izabella Miko is 40. Actor Luke Grimes is 37. Actor Feliz Ramirez is 29.

Today in History -- Jan. 21

WINFIELD -- Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the fall 2020 semester. 

Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.

Local and area students earning academic honors include the following.

Hillsboro Breanna Dittert Lindsborg Alyssa Patrick Salina Kallie Albrecht Samuel Beck Jessica Coleman&nbsp;&nbsp;

Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college, founded in 1885 by Methodists in south central Kansas. Today its Winfield campus is the residential hub that guides students to lives of meaning and service, with well-rounded academic and extra-curricular offerings attracting traditional-aged students from throughout the nation and world. Southwestern College Professional Studies provides options for online students in any location and has been named a top provider for persons serving in the military. The college continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

WINFIELD -- Top scholars at Southwestern College in Winfield and at Southwestern College Professional Studies have been announced with the release of the Dean's Honor Roll for the fall 2020 semester. Full-time students who earned grade point averages of at least 3.70 (4.0 equals an A) were eligible for the honor.Local and area students earning academic honors include the following.Hillsboro Breanna Dittert Lindsborg Alyssa Patrick Salina Kallie Albrecht Samuel Beck Jessica Coleman&nbsp;&nbsp;Southwestern College is a private liberal arts college, founded in 1885 by Methodists in south central Kansas. Today its Winfield campus is the residential hub that guides students to lives of meaning and service, with well-rounded academic and extra-curricular offerings attracting traditional-aged students from throughout the nation and world. Southwestern College Professional Studies provides options for online students in any location and has been named a top provider for persons serving in the military. The college continues to be affiliated with the United Methodist Church and is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission to offer bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees.

Local, area students earn academic honors at Southwestern

Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The Network / Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;

Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;

For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;

Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586196165303.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Midwest Energy, Inc., Kansas’ largest electric and natural gas cooperative, is seeking a Network/Telecommunications Administrator at its Hays office.&nbsp;&nbsp;The Network / Telecommunications Administrator is to design, implement, maintain, and monitor the LAN/WAN/VPN Network and to provide an efficient and cost-effective telecommunications system.&nbsp; The position is responsible for implementing and maintaining all IP based telecommunication for the various corporate data and telephony systems.&nbsp; The administrator will work to obtain the highest level of network performance, consistent uptime and adhere to best practice network and telecommunication standards while working with the IT Security Administrator to guard against cyber-attacks or breaches.&nbsp;Bachelor’s degree in an IT field of networking operating systems, computer science, data processing or related field preferred, or combination of work experience and education will be considered.&nbsp; Valid Kansas Driver’s license required.&nbsp;For more information on job requirements and responsibilities, and to submit an application, visit <a href="http://www.mwenergy.com/careers">www.mwenergy.com/careers</a>.&nbsp; Interested candidates should submit a resume with an application for employment to Midwest Energy Recruitment Services: recruitment@mwenergy.com.&nbsp; The application deadline is Feb. 3, 2021.&nbsp;Midwest Energy, Inc is an equal opportunity employer. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit and business need.

Saline County Health Dept.: Public health order to be extended to Feb. 21

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

Sadly, we have been notified of three additional deaths due to COVID-19 since our last update on January 15. Eighty-six members of our community have lost their lives to this virus.&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they currently have 21 hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

There have been 176 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since January 15. The total number of positive cases for Saline County has risen to 5,252.

The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,900 cases. At least 3,266 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>

This is an ever-evolving situation. Please continue to follow official sources to obtain the most accurate information possible.

If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3PhOUAF55Qc9TOBMP9J_vc0Hbvhfk7Lj2attz4XwkCCtltNch_-79KctlI-_abyjUTOLLMxoOEO50Ow9_ZbUoHqNjimEyUvio&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions.

Health Department staff continue to be overwhelmed and several days behind with contacting new positive cases and close contacts and we are unable to produce the necessary documentation immediately. We have added staff and some cases being routed to contact tracers at KDHE, but with cases rising every day we continue to be behind. Thank you for your patience.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3Cd3WlCncChLuHVrBlJFLZqJby0F6gHtvcQMBQfgeZPaemDObH2xAI_QgDQ7xCXh1O7QxNkj2O0h3_raF-zPKuuns605zSj3y&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 263,412 cases and 3,575 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 15 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=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu36YO2rvs0x1yPen-FSinOLobag3vBS-b3ZsvQKxLe0JaVyH41WnsgK0PmiKbTO_4T4IXCUw6YtRuRL7s2bvt6HimCs8d7QxGl&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3IejsKbWvx6ft-J_s_cmx51PilcWkfXTZIfKajyV_QCznkqLKCLs4mV8LoMTDrBBgrwHhtA2VGiY=&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611181497730.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday.Sadly, we have been notified of three additional deaths due to COVID-19 since our last update on January 15. Eighty-six members of our community have lost their lives to this virus.&nbsp;Salina Regional Health Center notified us that they currently have 21 hospitalized COVID-19 patients. There have been 176 new positive COVID-19 cases reported in Saline County since January 15. The total number of positive cases for Saline County has risen to 5,252. The Health Department staff are now actively monitoring 1,900 cases. At least 3,266 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>This is an ever-evolving situation. Please continue to follow official sources to obtain the most accurate information possible. If you have tested positive or you are known to be a close contact, please do not call the Health Department unless it has been at least five days since you received your results and you have not heard from us. We understand that for both employees and employers, quarantine or isolation documentation may be necessary to verify a leave of absence. Please refer to our&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3PhOUAF55Qc9TOBMP9J_vc0Hbvhfk7Lj2attz4XwkCCtltNch_-79KctlI-_abyjUTOLLMxoOEO50Ow9_ZbUoHqNjimEyUvio&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">FAQ Section</a>&nbsp;for additional questions. Health Department staff continue to be overwhelmed and several days behind with contacting new positive cases and close contacts and we are unable to produce the necessary documentation immediately. We have added staff and some cases being routed to contact tracers at KDHE, but with cases rising every day we continue to be behind. Thank you for your patience.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; According to the&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3Cd3WlCncChLuHVrBlJFLZqJby0F6gHtvcQMBQfgeZPaemDObH2xAI_QgDQ7xCXh1O7QxNkj2O0h3_raF-zPKuuns605zSj3y&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">Kansas Department of Health &amp; Environment Coronavirus Website</a>, there are now 263,412 cases and 3,575 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 15 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=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu36YO2rvs0x1yPen-FSinOLobag3vBS-b3ZsvQKxLe0JaVyH41WnsgK0PmiKbTO_4T4IXCUw6YtRuRL7s2bvt6HimCs8d7QxGl&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001738Y0EuhRXfTV2NSjVZO_uIo4jLSpG7L8AWotms4K8R1ow5bvfhM-lPziAV_VJu3IejsKbWvx6ft-J_s_cmx51PilcWkfXTZIfKajyV_QCznkqLKCLs4mV8LoMTDrBBgrwHhtA2VGiY=&amp;c=nyk0RZbyVhJ7iWZjI2pMh3GDmjm1ffYgdo4hPKP-AjQcRbQB3kiqsA==&amp;ch=wRBMikCcdsTAtMdMx0_PfLkEdjqSeRlj6njMP-GjPnb1cm27wMIryQ==" target="_blank">www.kdheks.gov</a>.

Saline County: 3 additional deaths, 176 new COVID-19 cases

TOPEKA --&nbsp;The Kansas State High School Activities Association has announced that Gary Harmon, longtime debate and speech coach has been selected for the 2020-21 NFHS “Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award” and Susan Laushman, Pittsburg High School Choir Director for the past 16 years,&nbsp;has been selected as the 2020-21 NFHS “Outstanding Music Educator Award” recipient.

NFHS Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award - Gary Harmon

Nominations for the NFHS Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS’s state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for State, Sectional or Citation awards.&nbsp; When reviewing the nominations, the NFHS Speech Committee looks at a number of criteria: 1) overall contributions, 2) years of service both curricular and co-curricular, 3) organization and continuance of an activity program, 4) significant and on-going contribution to the field, and 5) contributions to the profession both in and out of the state.

The award represents NFHS Section 5 (Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.) Section winners are eligible for the National Citation award, which is the highest award given by the NFHS.

Harmon has been teaching and coaching since 1965 and will be retiring from Kansas Wesleyan University at the conclusion of this school year. His career in education has exceeded five decades beginning in the Spring of 1965 at Hutchinson Central Junior High School where he taught English, was the pep club sponsor and directed the all school play. His profession led him to several schools teaching, coaching and mentoring thousands of students along his educational path. He had a major impact at Wellington High School, Manhattan High School, Chaparral High School, Salina Central High School, Kansas State University and has spent the past 16 years at Kansas Wesleyan University.

Harmon has received numerous awards and honors. From 1982 to 1993, he coached five State Champions in 4-Speaker, 2-Speaker and Lincoln-Douglas Debate. In 1988, he coached the NFL Student Congress Senator National Champion. He is a Salina Teacher of the Year, two time Kansas Speech Communications Teacher of the Year, and is a member of the National NFL Coaches Hall of Fame (National Speech and Debate Association) and the Kansas Speech Hall of Fame (Kansas Speech Communications Association).

Harmon started a high school Debate camp in 1986 that still operates today. He created the Kansas State Fair Debates in 1992, which has grown immensely over the years. Harmon has also hosted numerous speech, debate, basketball, and volleyball clinics as well as numerous KSHSAA rules meetings from the late 1960’s to the present year. Harmon co-authored a high school Debate textbook titled, “Argumentation &amp; Debate: A Strategic Perspective,” published through Linus Publications.

Harmon recently wrote the following essay, “I have found that every student whom I have come in contact during my teaching career could learn, although sometimes it did not seem like what they could learn was what I was teaching them. I finally figured out that the learning belonged to them and not me. My job was to figure out how they learned. A counselor told me once while we were discussing a student with whom I was having difficulties, that he had more hell given to him before breakfast than I could deal out to him all day. That was in my first semester of teaching. I asked for details and was told to listen; he would tell me. I did and in a couple of months he began to show me what he needed to learn. I discovered a unique and fine young man instead of a frustrated angry teen that the world was failing. The first tenant of my educational philosophy is to listen, not necessarily to the words, but listen.

"My second tenant is to care.&nbsp; I had a professor that told us a good teacher physically touched each student every day. I know that in today’s environment that sounds dangerous, but if you take the physical part out and replace it with the act of showing you really care; it makes perfect sense. I will bet that everyone had a favorite teacher in elementary school. One that made a difference, one that really cared. I do not mean the one that over did it and called you sweetheart. The one I remember hit my leg with a ruler when I stuck my foot in the aisle to trip Roseann Clutter. She would also stay after school until you understood those fractions. You knew she cared. School was not about her; it was about me.

"Finally, I have always called teaching a profession. I figured this out by the time my first freshmen class became seniors. I had taught them most everything I learned in college about the subject being taught. I needed to know more 'stuff.'&nbsp; Our world is forever revolving so fast that when it comes to knowledge, it is very difficult to keep pace. I went back to school in the summer and sometimes in the winter for night classes.&nbsp; I was not very smart. I did not go after degrees. I sought out classes that advanced my knowledge of the subject matter I was paid to teach. I have lots of hours, but not a lot of diplomas. I did; however, learn and as I discovered knowledge, I became excited to pass it on to my students. The courses I teach continually change in substance and still do today.&nbsp;

Another factor towards being a qualified teacher is that you need to know other colleagues in your area. Join your professional organization and attend their conferences. My personal educational philosophy is to listen, care, and be an ultimate professional."

The NFHS Speech, Debate and Theatre Association (NFHS SDTA) Outstanding Speech/Theatre/Debate Educator Award was first given in 1988 when seven individuals received sectional awards. Since that time, 230 sectional and 372 state awards have been presented. Added to those totals for 2020-2021 are seven sectional awards and thirteen state awards. An annual selection of a NFHS National Citation recipient began in 1989. Nominations for the NFHS SDTA Outstanding Speech/ Theatre/Debate Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS’s state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for state, sectional or Citation awards.

NFHS Outstanding Music Educator Award Recipient - Susan Laushman

The National Federation of State High School Association’s (NFHS) Outstanding Music Educator Award recognizes high school or college band, choral or orchestral directors, supervisors, and adjudicators.&nbsp; It is awarded to individuals whose contributions have impacted high school activities programs.&nbsp; Nominees must exemplify the highest standards of ethical conduct and carry the endorsement of their respective state high school association. Significant and/or long-term contributions to interscholastic high school music activities are important criterion in evaluating candidates.

The award represents NFHS Section 5 (Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.)&nbsp;

In the fall of 1985, she began her teaching career in Pittsburg High School as the vocal music teacher. From 1997-2004, Susan taught vocal music at Carl Junction, MO Junior/Senior High School. She then moved her career back to Pittsburg High School where she currently teaches Vocal Music, Piano Lab and Music Theatre.

In the May 2003, Laushman prepared an ensemble of 40 Carl Junction High School vocal music students and traveled to New York City to perform with Dr. John Leavitt at Carnegie Hall through Mid-America Productions. The choir was comprised of 250 high school students from across the country. Leavitt made special arrangements for her to serve as rehearsal accompanist, assist throughout the process, sing with the mass choir for the performance, and was featured pianist with the orchestra during the finale. Once again in Nov 2005 and May 2008, she rehearsed and prepared ensembles of Pittsburg High School vocal music students who traveled to New York City to perform with Leavitt at Carnegie Hall.

Laushman’s choral ensembles consistently receive 1 ratings at KSHSAA State Music Festivals. These groups include: Encore (Mixed); Pittsburg Women’s Chorus and the Pittsburg Men’s Chorus. Pittsburg High School annually has 35-40 choir students selected to the KMEA District Honor Choir and 8-14 vocal students selected each year to the KMEA All-State Honor Choir.

In 2009, Laushman created and developed the Pittsburg Multigenerational Choir program to represent the District’s Mission Statement of partnership with home, school and community that work collaboratively to empower all students to learn while promoting respect for self and others. She also designed the fall curriculum to invite community members into her vocal music classroom three times a week for nine weeks to sing along side her high school students in preparation for a public concert. Laushman arranged all the choral music for the group over the summer and the season runs from the beginning of school through October. The choir has exceeded 175 members in recent years, incorporating over 75 high school faculty, parents and community members.

The NFHS Music Association Outstanding Music Educator Award was first given in 1989 when seven individuals received sectional awards. Since that time, 190 sectional and 349 state awards have been presented. Added to those totals for 2020-2021 are seven sectional awards and fifteen state awards. Also, 1989 marked the beginning of an annual selection of a NFHS Citation recipient. The Citation is one of the highest awards presented by the NFHS in the fine arts.

Nominations for the NFHS Music Association Outstanding Music Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for state, sectional or Citation awards. Once selected by the NFHS Music Committee, nominators are notified of the status of their nominee and are afforded the opportunity to make the award presentation at a suitable event.

TOPEKA --&nbsp;The Kansas State High School Activities Association has announced that Gary Harmon, longtime debate and speech coach has been selected for the 2020-21 NFHS “Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award” and Susan Laushman, Pittsburg High School Choir Director for the past 16 years,&nbsp;has been selected as the 2020-21 NFHS “Outstanding Music Educator Award” recipient.NFHS Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award - Gary HarmonNominations for the NFHS Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS’s state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for State, Sectional or Citation awards.&nbsp; When reviewing the nominations, the NFHS Speech Committee looks at a number of criteria: 1) overall contributions, 2) years of service both curricular and co-curricular, 3) organization and continuance of an activity program, 4) significant and on-going contribution to the field, and 5) contributions to the profession both in and out of the state.The award represents NFHS Section 5 (Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, and South Dakota.) Section winners are eligible for the National Citation award, which is the highest award given by the NFHS.Harmon has been teaching and coaching since 1965 and will be retiring from Kansas Wesleyan University at the conclusion of this school year. His career in education has exceeded five decades beginning in the Spring of 1965 at Hutchinson Central Junior High School where he taught English, was the pep club sponsor and directed the all school play. His profession led him to several schools teaching, coaching and mentoring thousands of students along his educational path. He had a major impact at Wellington High School, Manhattan High School, Chaparral High School, Salina Central High School, Kansas State University and has spent the past 16 years at Kansas Wesleyan University.Harmon has received numerous awards and honors. From 1982 to 1993, he coached five State Champions in 4-Speaker, 2-Speaker and Lincoln-Douglas Debate. In 1988, he coached the NFL Student Congress Senator National Champion. He is a Salina Teacher of the Year, two time Kansas Speech Communications Teacher of the Year, and is a member of the National NFL Coaches Hall of Fame (National Speech and Debate Association) and the Kansas Speech Hall of Fame (Kansas Speech Communications Association).Harmon started a high school Debate camp in 1986 that still operates today. He created the Kansas State Fair Debates in 1992, which has grown immensely over the years. Harmon has also hosted numerous speech, debate, basketball, and volleyball clinics as well as numerous KSHSAA rules meetings from the late 1960’s to the present year. Harmon co-authored a high school Debate textbook titled, “Argumentation &amp; Debate: A Strategic Perspective,” published through Linus Publications.Harmon recently wrote the following essay, “I have found that every student whom I have come in contact during my teaching career could learn, although sometimes it did not seem like what they could learn was what I was teaching them. I finally figured out that the learning belonged to them and not me. My job was to figure out how they learned. A counselor told me once while we were discussing a student with whom I was having difficulties, that he had more hell given to him before breakfast than I could deal out to him all day. That was in my first semester of teaching. I asked for details and was told to listen; he would tell me. I did and in a couple of months he began to show me what he needed to learn. I discovered a unique and fine young man instead of a frustrated angry teen that the world was failing. The first tenant of my educational philosophy is to listen, not necessarily to the words, but listen."My second tenant is to care.&nbsp; I had a professor that told us a good teacher physically touched each student every day. I know that in today’s environment that sounds dangerous, but if you take the physical part out and replace it with the act of showing you really care; it makes perfect sense. I will bet that everyone had a favorite teacher in elementary school. One that made a difference, one that really cared. I do not mean the one that over did it and called you sweetheart. The one I remember hit my leg with a ruler when I stuck my foot in the aisle to trip Roseann Clutter. She would also stay after school until you understood those fractions. You knew she cared. School was not about her; it was about me."Finally, I have always called teaching a profession. I figured this out by the time my first freshmen class became seniors. I had taught them most everything I learned in college about the subject being taught. I needed to know more 'stuff.'&nbsp; Our world is forever revolving so fast that when it comes to knowledge, it is very difficult to keep pace. I went back to school in the summer and sometimes in the winter for night classes.&nbsp; I was not very smart. I did not go after degrees. I sought out classes that advanced my knowledge of the subject matter I was paid to teach. I have lots of hours, but not a lot of diplomas. I did; however, learn and as I discovered knowledge, I became excited to pass it on to my students. The courses I teach continually change in substance and still do today.&nbsp;Another factor towards being a qualified teacher is that you need to know other colleagues in your area. Join your professional organization and attend their conferences. My personal educational philosophy is to listen, care, and be an ultimate professional."The NFHS Speech, Debate and Theatre Association (NFHS SDTA) Outstanding Speech/Theatre/Debate Educator Award was first given in 1988 when seven individuals received sectional awards. Since that time, 230 sectional and 372 state awards have been presented. Added to those totals for 2020-2021 are seven sectional awards and thirteen state awards. An annual selection of a NFHS National Citation recipient began in 1989. Nominations for the NFHS SDTA Outstanding Speech/ Theatre/Debate Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS’s state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for state, sectional or Citation awards.NFHS Outstanding Music Educator Award Recipient - Susan LaushmanThe National Federation of State High School Association’s (NFHS) Outstanding Music Educator Award recognizes high school or college band, choral or orchestral directors, supervisors, and adjudicators.&nbsp; It is awarded to individuals whose contributions have impacted high school activities programs.&nbsp; Nominees must exemplify the highest standards of ethical conduct and carry the endorsement of their respective state high school association. Significant and/or long-term contributions to interscholastic high school music activities are important criterion in evaluating candidates.The award represents NFHS Section 5 (Kansas, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota and South Dakota.)&nbsp;In the fall of 1985, she began her teaching career in Pittsburg High School as the vocal music teacher. From 1997-2004, Susan taught vocal music at Carl Junction, MO Junior/Senior High School. She then moved her career back to Pittsburg High School where she currently teaches Vocal Music, Piano Lab and Music Theatre.In the May 2003, Laushman prepared an ensemble of 40 Carl Junction High School vocal music students and traveled to New York City to perform with Dr. John Leavitt at Carnegie Hall through Mid-America Productions. The choir was comprised of 250 high school students from across the country. Leavitt made special arrangements for her to serve as rehearsal accompanist, assist throughout the process, sing with the mass choir for the performance, and was featured pianist with the orchestra during the finale. Once again in Nov 2005 and May 2008, she rehearsed and prepared ensembles of Pittsburg High School vocal music students who traveled to New York City to perform with Leavitt at Carnegie Hall.Laushman’s choral ensembles consistently receive 1 ratings at KSHSAA State Music Festivals. These groups include: Encore (Mixed); Pittsburg Women’s Chorus and the Pittsburg Men’s Chorus. Pittsburg High School annually has 35-40 choir students selected to the KMEA District Honor Choir and 8-14 vocal students selected each year to the KMEA All-State Honor Choir.In 2009, Laushman created and developed the Pittsburg Multigenerational Choir program to represent the District’s Mission Statement of partnership with home, school and community that work collaboratively to empower all students to learn while promoting respect for self and others. She also designed the fall curriculum to invite community members into her vocal music classroom three times a week for nine weeks to sing along side her high school students in preparation for a public concert. Laushman arranged all the choral music for the group over the summer and the season runs from the beginning of school through October. The choir has exceeded 175 members in recent years, incorporating over 75 high school faculty, parents and community members.The NFHS Music Association Outstanding Music Educator Award was first given in 1989 when seven individuals received sectional awards. Since that time, 190 sectional and 349 state awards have been presented. Added to those totals for 2020-2021 are seven sectional awards and fifteen state awards. Also, 1989 marked the beginning of an annual selection of a NFHS Citation recipient. The Citation is one of the highest awards presented by the NFHS in the fine arts.Nominations for the NFHS Music Association Outstanding Music Educator Award are solicited from the NFHS state contacts. All new nominations, plus selected past recipients, are considered for state, sectional or Citation awards. Once selected by the NFHS Music Committee, nominators are notified of the status of their nominee and are afforded the opportunity to make the award presentation at a suitable event.--KSHSAA--

KWU's Harmon receives Outstanding Speech/Debate/Theatre Educator Award

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers participated in today's United States presidential inauguration activities. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:

Kansas Highway Patrol troopers participated in today's United States presidential inauguration activities. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KHPTroopC">Kansas Highway Patrol Troop C</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKHPTroopC%2Fposts%2F2862907114024480&width=500&show_text=true&height=664&appId" width="500" height="664" 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 troopers participate in inauguration activities

Salina’s popular Comic Con event is scheduled to return to Tony’s Pizza Events Center on July 10 and 11.

Vendors will be on hand for attendees who want to buy, sell, and trade comic books, toys and pop culture memorabilia. Also returning is the popular cosplay contest. Additional character and prop appearances may be announced closer to the event.

The show hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on July 10 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on July 11. Saturday tickets will be $10, and Sunday tickets will be $8. Kids ages 8 and under are free with a paying adult.&nbsp; Tickets will go on sale at a later date. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611170472835.png" alt="Image courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Tony's Pizza Events Center</figcaption>
 </figure>Salina’s popular Comic Con event is scheduled to return to Tony’s Pizza Events Center on July 10 and 11.Vendors will be on hand for attendees who want to buy, sell, and trade comic books, toys and pop culture memorabilia. Also returning is the popular cosplay contest. Additional character and prop appearances may be announced closer to the event.The show hours are 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. on July 10 and 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. on July 11. Saturday tickets will be $10, and Sunday tickets will be $8. Kids ages 8 and under are free with a paying adult.&nbsp; Tickets will go on sale at a later date.

Salina Comic Con returning this summer

Kansas Wesleyan University is honoring one of its most distinguished alumni with its latest announcement, the launch of the Dr. Rebecca Chopp Transfer Scholarship Competition.

The competition will be an annual event, held in March, for students who have completed at least 24 hours of transfer-eligible coursework with at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA. It is designed to recognize&nbsp;new transfer students who exhibit academic achievement, community service, and leadership. The winner, if they choose to live on campus, will receive the full cost of tuition for the 2021-22 academic year. An off-campus recipient would receive 75% of tuition costs.

Applicants must participate in a virtual interview and submit an essay to be eligible to receive the scholarship.&nbsp;

The 2020-21 competition is currently scheduled for March 6, 2021.

“I transferred to Kansas Wesleyan not knowing much about myself, the world or education,” Chopp said. “I did, however, know that I wanted a college degree. KWU taught me how to ask questions and find answers, how to develop myself and to help improve the world. The professors knew my name, supported my interests and challenged me to grow – both personally and professionally. The small classes let me learn to collaborate with different types of people. All I have ever learned, and all I ever accomplished, was built on the foundation of knowledge and respect that KWU gave me.”

“Transfer students face unique challenges in today’s collegiate landscape,” said Ken Oliver, vice president of advancement, admissions and marketing. “They also, however, offer a different perspective on college life, because they’ve already gained some collegiate experience. We are excited to honor one of our most famous transfers with this competition, and maybe discover the next Dr. Rebecca Chopp among students looking for new educational opportunities.”

Chopp ’74 was the first person in her family to attain a college degree, and went on to earn a masters from Saint Paul School of Theology (1977) and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (1983). Her distinguished career in higher education includes time spent as a dean at Yale University, the provost of Emory University, and the president of Swarthmore College and Colgate University. She would go on to serve as the first female chancellor at the University of Denver, where she served until 2019. Chopp remains DU’s&nbsp;Chancellor Emerita.

For more information on the Dr. Rebecca Chopp Transfer Scholarship Competition, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/admissions" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/admissions</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/1/1611169790316.png" alt="Dr. Rebecca Chopp. Photo courtesy KWU" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Rebecca Chopp. Photo courtesy KWU</figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas Wesleyan University is honoring one of its most distinguished alumni with its latest announcement, the launch of the Dr. Rebecca Chopp Transfer Scholarship Competition.The competition will be an annual event, held in March, for students who have completed at least 24 hours of transfer-eligible coursework with at least a 2.75 cumulative GPA. It is designed to recognize&nbsp;new transfer students who exhibit academic achievement, community service, and leadership. The winner, if they choose to live on campus, will receive the full cost of tuition for the 2021-22 academic year. An off-campus recipient would receive 75% of tuition costs.Applicants must participate in a virtual interview and submit an essay to be eligible to receive the scholarship.&nbsp;The 2020-21 competition is currently scheduled for March 6, 2021.“I transferred to Kansas Wesleyan not knowing much about myself, the world or education,” Chopp said. “I did, however, know that I wanted a college degree. KWU taught me how to ask questions and find answers, how to develop myself and to help improve the world. The professors knew my name, supported my interests and challenged me to grow – both personally and professionally. The small classes let me learn to collaborate with different types of people. All I have ever learned, and all I ever accomplished, was built on the foundation of knowledge and respect that KWU gave me.”“Transfer students face unique challenges in today’s collegiate landscape,” said Ken Oliver, vice president of advancement, admissions and marketing. “They also, however, offer a different perspective on college life, because they’ve already gained some collegiate experience. We are excited to honor one of our most famous transfers with this competition, and maybe discover the next Dr. Rebecca Chopp among students looking for new educational opportunities.”Chopp ’74 was the first person in her family to attain a college degree, and went on to earn a masters from Saint Paul School of Theology (1977) and a Ph.D. from the University of Chicago (1983). Her distinguished career in higher education includes time spent as a dean at Yale University, the provost of Emory University, and the president of Swarthmore College and Colgate University. She would go on to serve as the first female chancellor at the University of Denver, where she served until 2019. Chopp remains DU’s&nbsp;Chancellor Emerita.For more information on the Dr. Rebecca Chopp Transfer Scholarship Competition, please visit&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kwu.edu/admissions" target="_blank">www.kwu.edu/admissions</a>.

KWU launches Dr. Rebecca Chopp Transfer Scholarship competition

A new year means a fresh start. One way people can get the new tax year off to a good start is by checking their federal income tax withholding. They can do this using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>. This online tool helps employees avoid having too much or too little tax withheld from their wages. It also helps self-employed people make accurate estimated tax payments. Having too little withheld can result in an unexpected tax bill or even a penalty at tax time. Having too much withheld results in less money in their pocket. All taxpayers can use the results from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;to determine if they should: •&nbsp; Complete a new&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS13LTQifQ.7QVy9f5U51s9UP-ccK9xD5A0y_OYYUgiduke95vAn9o/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form W-4</a>,&nbsp;Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate&nbsp;and submit it to their employer. •&nbsp; Complete a new&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS13LTQtcCJ9.gJfMSiX2VOuB-0gj73pzOVsvYvkApDZc-3xq0_n1Vq8/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form W-4P</a>,&nbsp;Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments&nbsp;and submit it to their payer. •&nbsp; Make an additional or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2VzdGltYXRlZC10YXhlcy1mb3ItaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMifQ.kg3my98jznR723qvhwZFAXWPfACqOCr1-LnIGGa0tXo/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">estimated tax</a>&nbsp;payment to the IRS. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;asks taxpayers to estimate: •&nbsp; Their 2021 income. •&nbsp; The number of children to be claimed for the child tax credit and earned income tax credit. •&nbsp; Other items that will affect their 2021 taxes. The&nbsp;Tax Withholding Estimator&nbsp;does not ask for personally-identifiable information, such as a name, Social Security number, address and bank account numbers. The IRS doesn't save or record the information entered in the Estimator.

Before using the Estimator, taxpayers should gather their 2019 tax return, most recent pay stubs and income documents including: •&nbsp; Form W-2 from employers. •&nbsp; Form 1099 from banks and other payers. •&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS0xMDk1LWEifQ.hBMQ2BogoAME3QZjf1JqqRj_pmiXts7BEpF1Y7LBYuw/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Forms 1095-A</a>&nbsp;from the marketplace for those claiming the premium tax credit. •&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS0xMDk5LW5lYyJ9.NA4TZCh0duiaxeiOlUNLg8ckG5u0G7egUPl-56gCJZU/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form 1099-NEC</a>,&nbsp;Nonemployee Compensation. Most income is taxable, including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2lycy11bmVtcGxveW1lbnQtY29tcGVuc2F0aW9uLWlzLXRheGFibGUtaGF2ZS10YXgtd2l0aGhlbGQtbm93LWFuZC1hdm9pZC1hLXRheC10aW1lLXN1cnByaXNlIn0.uGmBBE7jsFpREXrDxSzOLJfyefXrh2YTcQeimgPm1FE/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">unemployment compensation</a>, refund interest and income from the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvZ2lnLWVjb25vbXktdGF4LWNlbnRlciJ9._Hgz6hlIMEMlgEt1aHx92QckuHcakIP_cSJliRCFLM8/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">gig economy</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvc21hbGwtYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy1zZWxmLWVtcGxveWVkL3ZpcnR1YWwtY3VycmVuY2llcyJ9.lzgmFCXWXqaWJ3n9faN2I8S7j-gZlqvpk4NL-58BQ6E/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">virtual currencies</a>. Therefore, taxpayers should also gather any documents from these types of earnings. These documents will help taxpayers estimate 2021 income and answer other questions asked during the process. The&nbsp;Tax Withholding Estimator&nbsp;results will only be as accurate as the information entered by the taxpayer. People with more complex tax situations should use the instructions in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtcHVibGljYXRpb24tNTA1In0.XIiOIds35hPpIUUAYx12OTDExccQN0sgEFBcaG4oIF0/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Publication 505</a>,&nbsp;Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax. This includes taxpayers who owe alternative minimum tax or certain other taxes, and people with long-term capital gains or qualified dividends.

A new year means a fresh start. One way people can get the new tax year off to a good start is by checking their federal income tax withholding. They can do this using the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;on <a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>. This online tool helps employees avoid having too much or too little tax withheld from their wages. It also helps self-employed people make accurate estimated tax payments. Having too little withheld can result in an unexpected tax bill or even a penalty at tax time. Having too much withheld results in less money in their pocket. All taxpayers can use the results from the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;to determine if they should: •&nbsp; Complete a new&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMjksInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS13LTQifQ.7QVy9f5U51s9UP-ccK9xD5A0y_OYYUgiduke95vAn9o/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form W-4</a>,&nbsp;Employee's Withholding Allowance Certificate&nbsp;and submit it to their employer. •&nbsp; Complete a new&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzAsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS13LTQtcCJ9.gJfMSiX2VOuB-0gj73pzOVsvYvkApDZc-3xq0_n1Vq8/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form W-4P</a>,&nbsp;Withholding Certificate for Pension or Annuity Payments&nbsp;and submit it to their payer. •&nbsp; Make an additional or&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzEsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2VzdGltYXRlZC10YXhlcy1mb3ItaW5kaXZpZHVhbHMifQ.kg3my98jznR723qvhwZFAXWPfACqOCr1-LnIGGa0tXo/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">estimated tax</a>&nbsp;payment to the IRS. The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/tax-withholding-estimator">Tax Withholding Estimator</a>&nbsp;asks taxpayers to estimate: •&nbsp; Their 2021 income. •&nbsp; The number of children to be claimed for the child tax credit and earned income tax credit. •&nbsp; Other items that will affect their 2021 taxes. The&nbsp;Tax Withholding Estimator&nbsp;does not ask for personally-identifiable information, such as a name, Social Security number, address and bank account numbers. The IRS doesn't save or record the information entered in the Estimator.Before using the Estimator, taxpayers should gather their 2019 tax return, most recent pay stubs and income documents including: •&nbsp; Form W-2 from employers. •&nbsp; Form 1099 from banks and other payers. •&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzIsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS0xMDk1LWEifQ.hBMQ2BogoAME3QZjf1JqqRj_pmiXts7BEpF1Y7LBYuw/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Forms 1095-A</a>&nbsp;from the marketplace for those claiming the premium tax credit. •&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzMsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtZm9ybS0xMDk5LW5lYyJ9.NA4TZCh0duiaxeiOlUNLg8ckG5u0G7egUPl-56gCJZU/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Form 1099-NEC</a>,&nbsp;Nonemployee Compensation. Most income is taxable, including&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzQsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L25ld3Nyb29tL2lycy11bmVtcGxveW1lbnQtY29tcGVuc2F0aW9uLWlzLXRheGFibGUtaGF2ZS10YXgtd2l0aGhlbGQtbm93LWFuZC1hdm9pZC1hLXRheC10aW1lLXN1cnByaXNlIn0.uGmBBE7jsFpREXrDxSzOLJfyefXrh2YTcQeimgPm1FE/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">unemployment compensation</a>, refund interest and income from the&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzUsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvZ2lnLWVjb25vbXktdGF4LWNlbnRlciJ9._Hgz6hlIMEMlgEt1aHx92QckuHcakIP_cSJliRCFLM8/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">gig economy</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzYsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2J1c2luZXNzZXMvc21hbGwtYnVzaW5lc3Nlcy1zZWxmLWVtcGxveWVkL3ZpcnR1YWwtY3VycmVuY2llcyJ9.lzgmFCXWXqaWJ3n9faN2I8S7j-gZlqvpk4NL-58BQ6E/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">virtual currencies</a>. Therefore, taxpayers should also gather any documents from these types of earnings. These documents will help taxpayers estimate 2021 income and answer other questions asked during the process. The&nbsp;Tax Withholding Estimator&nbsp;results will only be as accurate as the information entered by the taxpayer. People with more complex tax situations should use the instructions in&nbsp;<a href="https://lnks.gd/l/eyJhbGciOiJIUzI1NiJ9.eyJidWxsZXRpbl9saW5rX2lkIjoxMzcsInVyaSI6ImJwMjpjbGljayIsImJ1bGxldGluX2lkIjoiMjAyMTAxMjAuMzM2Mjg2MzEiLCJ1cmwiOiJodHRwczovL3d3dy5pcnMuZ292L2Zvcm1zLXB1YnMvYWJvdXQtcHVibGljYXRpb24tNTA1In0.XIiOIds35hPpIUUAYx12OTDExccQN0sgEFBcaG4oIF0/s/1260222507/br/93362399303-l" target="_blank">Publication 505</a>,&nbsp;Tax Withholding and Estimated Tax. This includes taxpayers who owe alternative minimum tax or certain other taxes, and people with long-term capital gains or qualified dividends.--<a href="http://IRS.gov">IRS.gov</a>--