TOPEKA -- The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Kansas has risen to 55, and includes one case in Mitchell County. Of those 55, two people -- one from Johnson County and one from Wyandotte County -- have died.

Here's the latest information from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment:

TOPEKA -- The number of confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state of Kansas has risen to 55, and includes one case in Mitchell County. Of those 55, two people -- one from Johnson County and one from Wyandotte County -- have died.Here's the latest information from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment:<figure>
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1 COVID-19 case in Mitchell County, 55 total in KS

Here is the best estimate of precipitation so far this year across the state, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita.

According to NWS, the amounts are based on a combination of radar estimates and measurements. 

Amounts range from around an inch along the Colorado border to over 10 inches in far southeast Kansas, NWS noted.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584817068943.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Here is the best estimate of precipitation so far this year across the state, according to the National Weather Service (NWS) in Wichita.According to NWS, the amounts are based on a combination of radar estimates and measurements. Amounts range from around an inch along the Colorado border to over 10 inches in far southeast Kansas, NWS noted.

NWS: KS Year-to-date rainfall more than 10 inches in places

Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas announced earlier today that as of now, it plans to distribute&nbsp;food boxes and hygiene items from its mobile outreach vans on Wednesday. From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/catholiccharitiesofnorthernks/">Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas</a> Facebook page:

Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas announced earlier today that as of now, it plans to distribute&nbsp;food boxes and hygiene items from its mobile outreach vans on Wednesday. From the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/catholiccharitiesofnorthernks/">Catholic Charities of Northern Kansas</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcatholiccharitiesofnorthernks%2Fposts%2F2698329863596180&width=500" width="500" height="633" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Catholic Charities plans distributions on Wednesday

CONCORDIA -- The City of Concordia has&nbsp;implemented warning situation protocols in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; According to the post, "Effective at 5:00PM, Friday, March 20, 2020, only essential personnel are to report to work for two weeks, or through April 5, 2020. While this applies only to City of Concordia employees, we believe it is a prudent and responsible approach, and we encourage other entities to consider doing so as well." From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cityofconcordia/">City of Concordia, Kansas</a> Facebook page:

CONCORDIA -- The City of Concordia has&nbsp;implemented warning situation protocols in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.&nbsp; According to the post, "Effective at 5:00PM, Friday, March 20, 2020, only essential personnel are to report to work for two weeks, or through April 5, 2020. While this applies only to City of Concordia employees, we believe it is a prudent and responsible approach, and we encourage other entities to consider doing so as well." From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/cityofconcordia/">City of Concordia, Kansas</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fcityofconcordia%2Fposts%2F3098088766896644&width=500" width="500" height="266" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

City of Concordia takes precautions in wake of COVID-19 

BY CRISTINA JANNEYHays Post

As school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic.

"I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health.

"They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on.

"Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."

Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19

Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Some of the association's recommendations include:

Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.

The association also recommends the following talking points.

Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children

To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.

The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.

BY CRISTINA JANNEYHays PostAs school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic."I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health."They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on."Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."<h2>Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19</h2>Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.Some of the association's recommendations include:<ol>
 <li>Remain calm and reassuring</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Make yourself available. Children may need extra attention.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Avoid excessive blaming</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Monitor television viewing and social media</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Maintain a normal routine to the extent possible</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Be honest and accurate</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Know the symptoms of COVID-19</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Review and model basic hygiene and healthy lifestyle practices and protection</li>
 </ol>Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.The association also recommends the following talking points.<h2>Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children</h2><ol>
 <li>Adults at home and school are taking care of your health and safety. If you have concerns, please talk to an adult you trust.</li><li>Not everyone will get the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. School and health officials are being especially careful to make sure as few people as possible get sick.</li><li>It is important that all students treat each other with respect and not jump to conclusions about who may or may not have COVID-19.</li><li>There are things you can do to stay health and avoid spreading the disease</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Avoid close contact with people who are sick.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Stay home when you are sick.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Wash hands often with soap and water (20 seconds).</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>If you don’t have soap, use hand sanitizer (60–95 percent alcohol based).</li>
 </ol><ol>
 <li>Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.</li>
 </ol>To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists&nbsp;<a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Tips for talking to children about COVID-19

WICHITA – The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;

Healthy&nbsp;individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.

Individuals can schedule an appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326522&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>,&nbsp;using the&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326521&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device.

As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., blood drive cancellations have grown at an alarming rate. To date,&nbsp;nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood donations. More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.

Here in Kansas, 19 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 728 fewer blood donations.&nbsp;The Red&nbsp;Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community&nbsp;blood drives across the country over the next few weeks to ensure ample opportunities for donors to give.

Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in need

The Red Cross expects the number of cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country. This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suffering from cancer.

“I am looking at the refrigerator that contains only one day’s supply of blood for the hospital,” said Dr. Robertson Davenport, director of transfusion medicine at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor. “The hospital is full. There are patients who need blood and cannot wait.”

“In our experience, the American public comes together to support those in need during times of shortage and that support is needed now more than ever during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Chris Hrouda, president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Unfortunately, when people stop donating blood, it forces doctors to make hard choices about patient care, which is why we need those who are healthy and well to roll up a sleeve and give the gift of life.”

The Red Cross is committed to blood drive safety

“We know that people want to help, but they may be hesitant to visit a blood drive during this time. We want to assure the public that blood donation is a safe process, and we have put additional precautions in place at our blood drives and donation centers to protect all who come out,” said Hrouda.

The Red Cross has implemented new measures to ensure blood drives and donation centers are even safer for our donors and staff, including:&nbsp;

•Checking the temperature of staff and donors&nbsp;before&nbsp;entering a drive to make sure they are healthy.

•Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process.

•Spacing beds, where possible, to follow social distancing practices between blood donors.

•Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.

At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees already follow thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including:

•Wearing gloves and changing gloves with each donor.

•Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas.

•Using sterile collection sets for every donation.

•Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub.

There is no data or evidence that this coronavirus can be transmitted by blood transfusion, and there have been no reported cases of transfusion transmission for any respiratory virus including this coronavirus worldwide.

“Volunteer donors are the unsung heroes for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. If you are healthy, feeling well and eligible to give, please schedule an appointment to give now,” added Hrouda.

To donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.

Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326519&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326518&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>.

WICHITA – The American Red Cross now faces a severe blood shortage due to an unprecedented number of blood drive cancellations in response to the coronavirus outbreak.&nbsp;Healthy&nbsp;individuals are needed now to donate to help patients counting on lifesaving blood.Individuals can schedule an appointment to give blood with the Red Cross by visiting&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326522&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org</a>,&nbsp;using the&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326521&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>, calling 1-800-RED-CROSS or enabling the Blood Donor Skill on any Alexa Echo device. As the coronavirus pandemic has grown here in the U.S., blood drive cancellations have grown at an alarming rate. To date,&nbsp;nearly 2,700 Red Cross blood drives have been canceled across the country due to concerns about congregating at workplaces, college campuses and schools amidst the coronavirus outbreak. These cancellations have resulted in some 86,000 fewer blood donations. More than 80% of the blood the Red Cross collects comes from drives held at locations of this type.Here in Kansas, 19 blood drives have been canceled, resulting in 728 fewer blood donations.&nbsp;The Red&nbsp;Cross is adding appointment slots at donation centers and expanding capacity at many community&nbsp;blood drives across the country over the next few weeks to ensure ample opportunities for donors to give.Volunteer donors are the only source of blood for those in needThe Red Cross expects the number of cancellations to continue to increase, which is causing heightened concern for blood collection organizations and hospitals across the country. This blood shortage could impact patients who need surgery, victims of car accidents and other emergencies, or patients suffering from cancer.“I am looking at the refrigerator that contains only one day’s supply of blood for the hospital,” said Dr. Robertson Davenport, director of transfusion medicine at Michigan Medicine in Ann Arbor. “The hospital is full. There are patients who need blood and cannot wait.”“In our experience, the American public comes together to support those in need during times of shortage and that support is needed now more than ever during this unprecedented public health crisis,” said Chris Hrouda, president, Red Cross Biomedical Services. “Unfortunately, when people stop donating blood, it forces doctors to make hard choices about patient care, which is why we need those who are healthy and well to roll up a sleeve and give the gift of life.”The Red Cross is committed to blood drive safety“We know that people want to help, but they may be hesitant to visit a blood drive during this time. We want to assure the public that blood donation is a safe process, and we have put additional precautions in place at our blood drives and donation centers to protect all who come out,” said Hrouda.The Red Cross has implemented new measures to ensure blood drives and donation centers are even safer for our donors and staff, including:&nbsp;•Checking the temperature of staff and donors&nbsp;before&nbsp;entering a drive to make sure they are healthy.•Providing hand sanitizer for use before the drive, as well as throughout the donation process.•Spacing beds, where possible, to follow social distancing practices between blood donors.•Increasing enhanced disinfecting of surfaces and equipment.At each blood drive and donation center, Red Cross employees already follow thorough safety protocols to help prevent the spread of any type of infection, including:•Wearing gloves and changing gloves with each donor.•Routinely wiping down donor-touched areas.•Using sterile collection sets for every donation.•Preparing the arm for donation with an aseptic scrub.There is no data or evidence that this coronavirus can be transmitted by blood transfusion, and there have been no reported cases of transfusion transmission for any respiratory virus including this coronavirus worldwide.“Volunteer donors are the unsung heroes for patients in need of lifesaving blood transfusions. If you are healthy, feeling well and eligible to give, please schedule an appointment to give now,” added Hrouda.Blood donation processTo donate blood, individuals need to bring a blood donor card or driver’s license or two other forms of identification that are required at check-in. Individuals who are 17 years of age in most states (16 with parental consent where allowed by state law, weigh at least 110 pounds and are in generally good health may be eligible to donate blood. High school students and other donors 18 years of age and younger also must meet certain height and weight requirements.Donors can also save up to 15 minutes at the blood drive by completing a RapidPass®. With RapidPass®, donors complete the pre-donation reading and health history questionnaire online, on the day of donation, from a mobile device or computer. To complete a RapidPass®, follow the instructions at&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326519&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">RedCrossBlood.org/RapidPass</a>&nbsp;or use the&nbsp;<a href="http://americanredcrossbiomed.pr-optout.com/Tracking.aspx?Data=HHL%3d9%2b62%3e7-%3eLCE3%3a368%3e9-GLCE17.6&amp;RE=MO&amp;RI=2033087&amp;Preview=False&amp;DistributionActionID=326518&amp;Action=Follow+Link" target="_blank">Red Cross Blood Donor App</a>.

COVID-19: Red Cross faces severe blood shortage

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COVID-19? Flu? Cold? Allergies? Know the symptoms

Today is Saturday, March 21, the 81st day of 2020. There are 285 days left in the year.

On March 21, 1685, composer Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Eisenach, Germany.

In 1871, journalist Henry M. Stanley began his famous expedition in Africa to locate the missing Scottish missionary David Livingstone.

In 1918, during World War I, Germany launched its Spring Offensive on the Western Front, hoping to break through the Allied lines before American reinforcements could arrive. (Although successful at first, the Spring Offensive ultimately failed.)

In 1945, during World War II, Allied bombers began four days of raids over Germany.

In 1963, the Alcatraz federal prison island in San Francisco Bay was emptied of its last inmates and closed at the order of Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy.

In 1972, the Supreme Court, in Dunn v. Blumstein, ruled that states may not require at least a year's residency for voting eligibility.

In 1976, champion skier Vladimir "Spider" Sabich was shot and killed by his girlfriend, actress-singer Claudine Longet, in the home they had shared in Aspen, Colorado; Longet, who maintained the shooting was an accident, served 30 days in jail for negligent homicide.

In 1981, Michael Donald, a black teenager in Mobile, Alabama, was abducted, tortured and killed by members of the Ku Klux Klan. (A lawsuit brought by Donald's mother, Beulah Mae Donald, later resulted in a landmark judgment that bankrupted one Klan organization.)

In 1990, Namibia became an independent nation as the former colony marked the end of 75 years of South African rule.

In 1997, President Bill Clinton and Russian President Boris Yeltsin wrapped up their summit in Helsinki, Finland, still deadlocked over NATO expansion, but able to agree on slashing nuclear weapons arsenals.

In 2006, the social media website Twitter was established with the sending of the first "tweet" by co-founder Jack Dorsey, who wrote: "just setting up my twttr."

In 2007, former Vice President Al Gore made an emotional return to Congress as he pleaded with House and Senate committees to fight global warming; skeptical Republicans questioned the science behind his climate-change documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth."

In 2017, on the second day of his Senate confirmation hearing, Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch declared he'd made no promises to President Donald Trump or anyone else about how he would vote on abortion or other issues.

Ten years ago: Frustrated with the pace of action to overhaul the country's immigration system, thousands of immigrant rights supporters descended on the nation's capital, waving American flags and holding homemade signs in English and Spanish. France's long-flailing political left made a big comeback, crushing President Nicolas Sarkozy's conservatives in regional elections.

Five years ago: President Barack Obama, in an interview with The Huffington Post, said he took Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "at his word" for saying an independent Palestinian state would never co-exist with Israel as long as he was in office, yet another sign of the strained relations between longtime allies. A super tide turned France's famed Mount Saint-Michel into an island and then retreated out of sight, delighting thousands of visitors who had come to see the rare phenomenon. In Meribel, France, Marcel Hirscher of Austria became the first skier to win the men's World Cup overall title for a fourth straight year.

One year ago: President Donald Trump abruptly declared that the U.S. would recognize Israel's sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights, a major shift in American policy. A Florida man, Cesar Sayoc, pleaded guilty to sending pipe bombs to CNN and prominent critics of President Donald Trump in the days before the 2018 midterm elections; no one was harmed. (Sayoc was later sentenced to 20 years in prison by a judge who concluded that the bombs were not designed to explode.) Facebook acknowledged that it had left hundreds of millions of user passwords readable by its employees for years, storing them in readable plain text. Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant signed one of the nation's strictest abortion laws, one that would ban most abortions once a fetal heartbeat could be detected, about six weeks into pregnancy. (A federal judge blocked the law from taking effect.) Ichiro Suzuki, a batting star in Japan and with the Seattle Mariners, played in his final game at the age of 45; it was the second of two games in Japan between the Mariners and the Oakland Athletics.

Today's Birthdays: Actress Kathleen Widdoes is 81. Songwriter Chip Taylor ("Wild Thing") is 80. Folk-pop singer-musician Keith Potger (The Seekers) is 79. Actress Marie-Christine Barrault is 76. Singer-musician Rose Stone (Sly and the Family Stone) is 75. Actor Timothy Dalton is 74. Singer Ray Dorset (Mungo Jerry) is 74. Rock singer-musician Roger Hodgson (Supertramp) is 70. Rock musician Conrad Lozano (Los Lobos) is 69. Rhythm-and-blues singer Russell Thompkins Jr. is 69. Comedy writer-performer Brad Hall is 62. Actress Sabrina LeBeauf is 62. Actor Gary Oldman is 62. Actress Kassie Depaiva is 59. Actor Matthew Broderick is 58. Comedian-actress Rosie O'Donnell is 58. Actress Cynthia Geary is 55. Hip-hop DJ Premier (Gang Starr) is 54. Rock musician Jonas "Joker" Berggren (Ace of Base) is 53. Rock MC Maxim (Prodigy) is 53. Rock musician Andrew Copeland (Sister Hazel) is 52. Actress Laura Allen is 46. Rapper-TV personality Kevin Federline is 42. Actress Sonequa Martin-Green (TV: "The Walking Dead") is 35. Actor Scott Eastwood is 34. Tennis player Karolina Pliskova is 28. Actress Jasmin Savoy Brown is 26. Actor Forrest Wheeler is 16.

Thought for Today: "Is it worse to be scared than to be bored, that is the question." — Gertrude Stein, American writer (1874-1946).

<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>Today is Saturday, March 21, the 81st day of 2020. There are 285 days left in the year.Today's Highlight in History:On March 21, 1685, composer Johann Sebastian Bach was born in Eisenach, Germany.On this date:In 1871, journalist Henry M. Stanley began his famous expedition in Africa to locate the missing Scottish missionary David Livingstone.In 1918, during World War I, Germany launched its Spring Offensive on the Western Front, hoping to break through the Allied lines before American reinforcements could arrive. (Although successful at first, the Spring Offensive ultimately failed.)In 1945, during World War II, Allied bombers began four days of raids over Germany.In 1963, the Alcatraz federal prison island in San Francisco Bay was emptied of its last inmates and closed at the order of Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy.In 1972, the Supreme Court, in Dunn v. Blumstein, ruled that states may not require at least a year's residency for voting eligibility.In 1976, champion skier Vladimir "Spider" Sabich was shot and killed by his girlfriend, actress-singer Claudine Longet, in the home they had shared in Aspen, Colorado; Longet, who maintained the shooting was an accident, served 30 days in jail for negligent homicide.In 1981, Michael Donald, a black teenager in Mobile, Alabama, was abducted, tortured and killed by members of the Ku Klux Klan. (A lawsuit brought by Donald's mother, Beulah Mae Donald, later resulted in a landmark judgment that bankrupted one Klan organization.)In 1990, Namibia became an independent nation as the former colony marked the end of 75 years of South African rule.In 1997, President Bill Clinton and Russian President Boris Yeltsin wrapped up their summit in Helsinki, Finland, still deadlocked over NATO expansion, but able to agree on slashing nuclear weapons arsenals.In 2006, the social media website Twitter was established with the sending of the first "tweet" by co-founder Jack Dorsey, who wrote: "just setting up my twttr."In 2007, former Vice President Al Gore made an emotional return to Congress as he pleaded with House and Senate committees to fight global warming; skeptical Republicans questioned the science behind his climate-change documentary, "An Inconvenient Truth."In 2017, on the second day of his Senate confirmation hearing, Supreme Court nominee Neil Gorsuch declared he'd made no promises to President Donald Trump or anyone else about how he would vote on abortion or other issues.Ten years ago: Frustrated with the pace of action to overhaul the country's immigration system, thousands of immigrant rights supporters descended on the nation's capital, waving American flags and holding homemade signs in English and Spanish. France's long-flailing political left made a big comeback, crushing President Nicolas Sarkozy's conservatives in regional elections.Five years ago: President Barack Obama, in an interview with The Huffington Post, said he took Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu "at his word" for saying an independent Palestinian state would never co-exist with Israel as long as he was in office, yet another sign of the strained relations between longtime allies. A super tide turned France's famed Mount Saint-Michel into an island and then retreated out of sight, delighting thousands of visitors who had come to see the rare phenomenon. In Meribel, France, Marcel Hirscher of Austria became the first skier to win the men's World Cup overall title for a fourth straight year.One year ago: President Donald Trump abruptly declared that the U.S. would recognize Israel's sovereignty over the disputed Golan Heights, a major shift in American policy. A Florida man, Cesar Sayoc, pleaded guilty to sending pipe bombs to CNN and prominent critics of President Donald Trump in the days before the 2018 midterm elections; no one was harmed. (Sayoc was later sentenced to 20 years in prison by a judge who concluded that the bombs were not designed to explode.) Facebook acknowledged that it had left hundreds of millions of user passwords readable by its employees for years, storing them in readable plain text. Mississippi Gov. Phil Bryant signed one of the nation's strictest abortion laws, one that would ban most abortions once a fetal heartbeat could be detected, about six weeks into pregnancy. (A federal judge blocked the law from taking effect.) Ichiro Suzuki, a batting star in Japan and with the Seattle Mariners, played in his final game at the age of 45; it was the second of two games in Japan between the Mariners and the Oakland Athletics.Today's Birthdays: Actress Kathleen Widdoes is 81. Songwriter Chip Taylor ("Wild Thing") is 80. Folk-pop singer-musician Keith Potger (The Seekers) is 79. Actress Marie-Christine Barrault is 76. Singer-musician Rose Stone (Sly and the Family Stone) is 75. Actor Timothy Dalton is 74. Singer Ray Dorset (Mungo Jerry) is 74. Rock singer-musician Roger Hodgson (Supertramp) is 70. Rock musician Conrad Lozano (Los Lobos) is 69. Rhythm-and-blues singer Russell Thompkins Jr. is 69. Comedy writer-performer Brad Hall is 62. Actress Sabrina LeBeauf is 62. Actor Gary Oldman is 62. Actress Kassie Depaiva is 59. Actor Matthew Broderick is 58. Comedian-actress Rosie O'Donnell is 58. Actress Cynthia Geary is 55. Hip-hop DJ Premier (Gang Starr) is 54. Rock musician Jonas "Joker" Berggren (Ace of Base) is 53. Rock MC Maxim (Prodigy) is 53. Rock musician Andrew Copeland (Sister Hazel) is 52. Actress Laura Allen is 46. Rapper-TV personality Kevin Federline is 42. Actress Sonequa Martin-Green (TV: "The Walking Dead") is 35. Actor Scott Eastwood is 34. Tennis player Karolina Pliskova is 28. Actress Jasmin Savoy Brown is 26. Actor Forrest Wheeler is 16.Thought for Today: "Is it worse to be scared than to be bored, that is the question." — Gertrude Stein, American writer (1874-1946).Copyright 2020, The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

Today in History -- March 20

The Salina Parks and Recreation Department wants people to know that city parks are still open. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the department has issued an advisory for park patrons.

"Although City of Salina parks remain open for outdoor activities and exercise, users are advised to avoid contact with common surfaces, playground equipment, and benches. Plastic is used extensively within our playgrounds and COVID-19 can live up to three days on its surface," Parks and Rec noted in a news release issued this afternoon.

That wording also appears on signs with the heading of "PLEASE BE ADVISED OF COVID-19 SURFACE CONTAGION" that are posted in the parks. The signs also contain the following graphic.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584751042083.jpeg" alt="The playground area at Jerry Ivey Park. Salina Post photo" />
 <figcaption>The playground area at Jerry Ivey Park. Salina Post photo</figcaption>
 </figure>The Salina Parks and Recreation Department wants people to know that city parks are still open. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the department has issued an advisory for park patrons."Although City of Salina parks remain open for outdoor activities and exercise, users are advised to avoid contact with common surfaces, playground equipment, and benches. Plastic is used extensively within our playgrounds and COVID-19 can live up to three days on its surface," Parks and Rec noted in a news release issued this afternoon.That wording also appears on signs with the heading of "PLEASE BE ADVISED OF COVID-19 SURFACE CONTAGION" that are posted in the parks. The signs also contain the following graphic.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584750629576.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

City parks remain open; caution urged

Here's the March 20 update from Saline County:

As of 5 pm, March 20th, 2020, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

First off, our agencies want to express our deepest gratitude to the business community. This is an unprecedented situation across the globe. We continue to be impressed by the measures that many of our businesses are taking to continue serving the citizens but also taking the guidance and recommendations from our Federal, State, and Local partners seriously. Thank you. The Salina Area Chamber’s website is a great resource for everyone: <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html">www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html</a>.

This situation continues to change rapidly with the number of cases of COVID-19 in Kansas that is growing each day. Our State and Federal partners issued information that is important to pass along:

· Governor Kelly announced the HIRE Fund (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund. This is available for existing for-profit businesses located in Kansas offering loans of up to $20,000 at 0% interest.

· KDHE issued an informational flyer that describes and compares the symptoms of the flu, allergies, and COVID-19.

· U.S. Treasury Secretary announced that the deadline for filing U.S. income taxes has been moved from April 15 to July 15.

Guidance and information are constantly being updated by KDHE. Please visit their site to see the most current information: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>.

We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:

· Staying at home if you are sick.

· Covering your sneezes and coughs.

· If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

As stated before, this is a rapidly changing situation. Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees. Additional press releases will be issued from our individual agencies and shared through our social media channels for any additional cancellations, closures, or modified services.

Here's the March 20 update from Saline County:As of 5 pm, March 20th, 2020, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.First off, our agencies want to express our deepest gratitude to the business community. This is an unprecedented situation across the globe. We continue to be impressed by the measures that many of our businesses are taking to continue serving the citizens but also taking the guidance and recommendations from our Federal, State, and Local partners seriously. Thank you. The Salina Area Chamber’s website is a great resource for everyone: <a href="http://www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html">www.salinakansas.org/salina-strong.html</a>.This situation continues to change rapidly with the number of cases of COVID-19 in Kansas that is growing each day. Our State and Federal partners issued information that is important to pass along:· Governor Kelly announced the HIRE Fund (Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency) Fund. This is available for existing for-profit businesses located in Kansas offering loans of up to $20,000 at 0% interest.· KDHE issued an informational flyer that describes and compares the symptoms of the flu, allergies, and COVID-19.· U.S. Treasury Secretary announced that the deadline for filing U.S. income taxes has been moved from April 15 to July 15.Guidance and information are constantly being updated by KDHE. Please visit their site to see the most current information: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>.We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:· Staying at home if you are sick.· Washing your hands.· Covering your sneezes and coughs.· If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.As stated before, this is a rapidly changing situation. Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees. Additional press releases will be issued from our individual agencies and shared through our social media channels for any additional cancellations, closures, or modified services.

No confirmed positive COVID-19 cases in Salina County yet

ABILENE -- The Dickinson County health officer is limiting the number of people who can gather at one time in the county. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Dickinson-County-Kansas-183363591711637/">Dickinson County, Kansas</a> Facebook page:

ABILENE -- The Dickinson County health officer is limiting the number of people who can gather at one time in the county. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Dickinson-County-Kansas-183363591711637/">Dickinson County, Kansas</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fpermalink.php%3Fstory_fbid%3D3006502329397735%26id%3D183363591711637&width=500" width="500" height="593" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Dickinson County health officer limits size of crowds

Salina USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline was in the 99KG studio to visit with Shane McClintock about the district's efforts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you missed it, you can listen here:

Salina USD 305 Superintendent Linn Exline was in the 99KG studio to visit with Shane McClintock about the district's efforts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. If you missed it, you can listen here:<div><iframe width="100%" height="300" scrolling="no" frameborder="no" allow="autoplay" src="https://w.soundcloud.com/player/?url=https%3A//api.soundcloud.com/tracks/779653867&color=%23ff5500&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false&show_teaser=true&visual=true"></iframe></div>

USD 305's Exline stops by the 99KG studio to discuss district efforts

Salina USD 305 has provided an update about what the district is doing in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic.

According to information from the district, Salina Public Schools will host seven grab-and-go food sites that will be open between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. from March 23-27.

The sites will be available&nbsp;to all children ages 1-18.

No signup, eligibility, or paperwork will be required.

Children must be present per federal government (USDA) requirements.

Participants may visit any site regardless of school attended.

Drive-through distribution of meals will be offer at seven school sites:

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schilling Elementary, 3121 Canterbury

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sunset Elementary, 1510 W. Republic

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cottonwood Elementary, 215 S. Phillips

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Oakdale Elementary, 811 E. Iron

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; South Middle School, 2015 Simmons

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Central High School, 650 E. Crawford

•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Heartland Early Education, 700 Jupiter

Additionally, Salina Public Schools’ teachers are working with Kansas State Department of Education guidelines to create a new learning model for Salina students. Small groups of teachers have been meeting since Thursday to review the new guidelines and develop recommendations. More teachers will be involved in the development during the week of March 23. Information will be shared with parents as soon as it is available.

Salina Public Schools will continue to communicate through parent notifications, our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>, local media outlets and on social media.

Salina USD 305 has provided an update about what the district is doing in regard to the COVID-19 pandemic.According to information from the district, Salina Public Schools will host seven grab-and-go food sites that will be open between 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. from March 23-27.The sites will be available&nbsp;to all children ages 1-18.No signup, eligibility, or paperwork will be required.Children must be present per federal government (USDA) requirements.Participants may visit any site regardless of school attended.Drive-through distribution of meals will be offer at seven school sites:•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Schilling Elementary, 3121 Canterbury•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Sunset Elementary, 1510 W. Republic•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Cottonwood Elementary, 215 S. Phillips•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Oakdale Elementary, 811 E. Iron•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; South Middle School, 2015 Simmons•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Central High School, 650 E. Crawford•&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Heartland Early Education, 700 JupiterAdditionally, Salina Public Schools’ teachers are working with Kansas State Department of Education guidelines to create a new learning model for Salina students. Small groups of teachers have been meeting since Thursday to review the new guidelines and develop recommendations. More teachers will be involved in the development during the week of March 23. Information will be shared with parents as soon as it is available.Salina Public Schools will continue to communicate through parent notifications, our <a href="http://usd305.com">website</a>, local media outlets and on social media.

USD 305 announces 7 free grab-and-go food sites

Choices Network, Inc., has announced that it will temporarily close its office through April 3.  Staff is available for appointments by calling 785-820-8018.

Choices Network, Inc., has announced that it will temporarily close its office through April 3. Staff is available for appointments by calling 785-820-8018.

Choices Network, Inc., temporarily closes its office

KANOPOLIS LAKE -- Kanopolis State Park remains open for now. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:

KANOPOLIS LAKE -- Kanopolis State Park remains open for now. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/KanopolisStatePark/">Kanopolis State Park - Kansas Wildlife, Parks &amp; Tourism</a> Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FKanopolisStatePark%2Fposts%2F2582604288673807&width=500" width="500" height="266" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Kanopolis State Park remains open for now

ABILENE -- Following is an update from Memorial Health System (MHS) concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.

MHS is now screening everyone who enters the building. (screening tool attached)

Heartland Health Care Clinic (HHCC) is temporarily suspending the walk-in clinic. HHCC providers will see patients in person or via telemedicine. In order to schedule an appointment, patients must call in advance (785) 263-4131. 

All patients who call in with respiratory complaints, cold symptoms, cough and/or fever, will be phone triaged by clinic nurses prior to an appointment being made. 

A nurse from HHCC will contact patients via phone for triage, to determine the type of visit (in person vs. telemedicine) that is necessary. MHS noted that it was optimistic that telemedicine visits should be ready to go by early next week.

Patients who are suspected to be COVID-19 patients are being advised to treat their symptoms at home. Treatment instructions will be provided to these patients. HHCC will not be doing "in-person" suspected COVID-19 visits in the clinic.

If a person is suspected to have COVID-19, they will be advised to stay at home at treat symptomatically. If condition worsens, or they have trouble breathing, etc. they will be advised to go to the Emergency Room or call 911. Only those patients critical enough for the ED, and who meet criteria, will be tested for COVID-19.

Patients who are ill (not suspected COVID-19, and need to be seen in person, will be scheduled in the morning between 7:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.

The clinic will be thoroughly cleaned mid-day.

Patients who are well, and need to be seen in person, will be scheduled in the afternoon between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.

HHCC waiting room will still be divided into “well” and “not well” sections.

The tent set up near the Emergency Department is not being utilized at this time. It has been set up as part of the disaster preparedness protocol. MHS would like to thank Dickinson County for working in cooperation with us during this time.

Specialty Clinics: MHS is leaving that up those individual providers to decide if they want to hold a clinic at MHS at this time

All elective (non-emergent) surgical procedures, including epidural steroid injections, are being postponed for at least two weeks.

Waiting areas are arranged to keep people six feet apart.

The Pain Clinic will be calling its scheduled patients to pre-screen for risk factors, and reschedule if indicated.

ABILENE -- Following is an update from Memorial Health System (MHS) concerning the COVID-19 pandemic.MHS is now screening everyone who enters the building. (screening tool attached)Heartland Health Care Clinic (HHCC) is temporarily suspending the walk-in clinic. HHCC providers will see patients in person or via telemedicine. In order to schedule an appointment, patients must call in advance (785) 263-4131. All patients who call in with respiratory complaints, cold symptoms, cough and/or fever, will be phone triaged by clinic nurses prior to an appointment being made. A nurse from HHCC will contact patients via phone for triage, to determine the type of visit (in person vs. telemedicine) that is necessary. MHS noted that it was optimistic that telemedicine visits should be ready to go by early next week.Patients who are suspected to be COVID-19 patients are being advised to treat their symptoms at home. Treatment instructions will be provided to these patients. HHCC will not be doing "in-person" suspected COVID-19 visits in the clinic.If a person is suspected to have COVID-19, they will be advised to stay at home at treat symptomatically. If condition worsens, or they have trouble breathing, etc. they will be advised to go to the Emergency Room or call 911. Only those patients critical enough for the ED, and who meet criteria, will be tested for COVID-19.Patients who are ill (not suspected COVID-19, and need to be seen in person, will be scheduled in the morning between 7:15 a.m. and 11 a.m.The clinic will be thoroughly cleaned mid-day.Patients who are well, and need to be seen in person, will be scheduled in the afternoon between 1 p.m. and 3 p.m.HHCC waiting room will still be divided into “well” and “not well” sections.The tent set up near the Emergency Department is not being utilized at this time. It has been set up as part of the disaster preparedness protocol. MHS would like to thank Dickinson County for working in cooperation with us during this time.Specialty Clinics: MHS is leaving that up those individual providers to decide if they want to hold a clinic at MHS at this timeAll elective (non-emergent) surgical procedures, including epidural steroid injections, are being postponed for at least two weeks.Waiting areas are arranged to keep people six feet apart.The Pain Clinic will be calling its scheduled patients to pre-screen for risk factors, and reschedule if indicated.

MHS provides update in wake of COVID-19

A car stolen from a central Salina residence Thursday afternoon was recovered later in the day in the west part of the city.

Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Torry Ward, 44, of Salina, reported at about 1 p.m. Thursday that someone had stolen his 1999 Toyota Camry, valued at $3,800, from his residence in the 400 block of South Ninth Street while he was home eating lunch. 

Ward said he had stopped at Casey's at Ninth and Crawford to get some food and then went home to eat, Forrester explained. Ward told police that he was in a hurry and accidently left his keys and cell phone in the car, Forrester said. Ward said he thought he heard his car start and when he went outside to check, it was gone, Forrester said. A neighbor told him that the car was headed south on South Ninth Street, Forrester added.

Approximately 30 minutes later, officers located the stolen car at the intersection of West Crawford Street and Beverly Drive and made a traffic stop in the 1700 block of West Crawford Street, Forrester said. 

The driver, Justine Buster, 33, of Salina, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.

Forrester said that when Ward picked up the car on West Crawford Street, he advised officers that he had seen Buster coming out of Casey's when he left there to go home to eat.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584711208833.jpeg" alt="Justine Buster. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Justine Buster. Photo courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>A car stolen from a central Salina residence Thursday afternoon was recovered later in the day in the west part of the city.Salina Police Captain Paul Forrester said this morning that Torry Ward, 44, of Salina, reported at about 1 p.m. Thursday that someone had stolen his 1999 Toyota Camry, valued at $3,800, from his residence in the 400 block of South Ninth Street while he was home eating lunch. Ward said he had stopped at Casey's at Ninth and Crawford to get some food and then went home to eat, Forrester explained. Ward told police that he was in a hurry and accidently left his keys and cell phone in the car, Forrester said. Ward said he thought he heard his car start and when he went outside to check, it was gone, Forrester said. A neighbor told him that the car was headed south on South Ninth Street, Forrester added.Approximately 30 minutes later, officers located the stolen car at the intersection of West Crawford Street and Beverly Drive and made a traffic stop in the 1700 block of West Crawford Street, Forrester said. The driver, Justine Buster, 33, of Salina, was arrested on suspicion of the following, Forrester said.Felony theftDriving while suspendedForrester said that when Ward picked up the car on West Crawford Street, he advised officers that he had seen Buster coming out of Casey's when he left there to go home to eat.

Salina woman arrested after car taken from residence

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, EatStreet has launched a new feature that allows customers to have their orders left at their doors, never needing to make contact with a delivery driver.

The new no-contact delivery option is available for all customers in Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan and Salina.

“More than 400 restaurants across these cities are available on EatStreet, and delivery remains a viable option for customers wanting to support their favorite businesses during these unprecedented times,” said Matt Howard, EatStreet CEO. “We’ve taken a number of proactive measures to keep our customers, restaurant partners and drivers safe when using EatStreet.”

When you place your order, check the box to indicate “leave my order at the door, please” or type “please leave my food at the door” in the Order Instructions box at Checkout.

Your driver will work to confirm where you want your order placed and when it has arrived.

At no time will you have direct contact with your driver.

EatStreet also will continue to offer free delivery for 30 days to all new customers in Kansas. Currently, EatStreet provides delivery for local and national restaurants in&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/topeka-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Topeka</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/manhattan-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Manhattan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/lawrence-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Lawrence</a>,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/salina-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Salina</a>.

To see if your favorite local restaurant offers delivery, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/" target="_blank">EatStreet.com</a>&nbsp;or download the EatStreet app on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apple.com/ios/app-store/" target="_blank">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps?utm_source=na_Med&amp;utm_medium=hasem&amp;utm_content=Jan0219&amp;utm_campaign=Evergreen&amp;pcampaignid=MKT-DR-na-us-1000189-Med-hasem-ap-Evergreen-Jan0219-Text_Search_BKWS-id_100470_%7cEXA%7cONSEM_kwid_43700023142507520&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwsMzzBRACEiwAx4lLG4qvMZk2kMDTNiyxIwH5RFwkp-A5wUWLoJhWU0QGEiuH5nf8M_m_cRoCz28QAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Google Play</a>.

To help prevent the spread of COVID-19, EatStreet has launched a new feature that allows customers to have their orders left at their doors, never needing to make contact with a delivery driver.The new no-contact delivery option is available for all customers in Topeka, Lawrence, Manhattan and Salina.“More than 400 restaurants across these cities are available on EatStreet, and delivery remains a viable option for customers wanting to support their favorite businesses during these unprecedented times,” said Matt Howard, EatStreet CEO. “We’ve taken a number of proactive measures to keep our customers, restaurant partners and drivers safe when using EatStreet.”How no-contact deliveries workWhen you place your order, check the box to indicate “leave my order at the door, please” or type “please leave my food at the door” in the Order Instructions box at Checkout.Your driver will work to confirm where you want your order placed and when it has arrived.At no time will you have direct contact with your driver.EatStreet also will continue to offer free delivery for 30 days to all new customers in Kansas. Currently, EatStreet provides delivery for local and national restaurants in&nbsp;&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/topeka-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Topeka</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/manhattan-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Manhattan</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/lawrence-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Lawrence</a>,&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/salina-ks/restaurants" target="_blank">Salina</a>.To see if your favorite local restaurant offers delivery, visit&nbsp;<a href="https://eatstreet.com/" target="_blank">EatStreet.com</a>&nbsp;or download the EatStreet app on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.apple.com/ios/app-store/" target="_blank">App Store</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps?utm_source=na_Med&amp;utm_medium=hasem&amp;utm_content=Jan0219&amp;utm_campaign=Evergreen&amp;pcampaignid=MKT-DR-na-us-1000189-Med-hasem-ap-Evergreen-Jan0219-Text_Search_BKWS-id_100470_%7cEXA%7cONSEM_kwid_43700023142507520&amp;gclid=CjwKCAjwsMzzBRACEiwAx4lLG4qvMZk2kMDTNiyxIwH5RFwkp-A5wUWLoJhWU0QGEiuH5nf8M_m_cRoCz28QAvD_BwE&amp;gclsrc=aw.ds" target="_blank">Google Play</a>.

EatStreet launches no-contact delivery in Salina

Due to concerns about the COVID-19 outbreak, the Salvation Army Family Thrift Store is closed.

According to Captain Lynn S. Lopez, the store, located at 157 South Fifth Street, will be closed temporarily beginning today. Additionally, donations to the store will not be able to be processed until further notice, according to Lopez.

"We will reopen as soon as we receive the all clear. Thank you for your understanding. We value our community's support," Lopez noted.

Due to concerns about the COVID-19 outbreak, the Salvation Army Family Thrift Store is closed.According to Captain Lynn S. Lopez, the store, located at 157 South Fifth Street, will be closed temporarily beginning today. Additionally, donations to the store will not be able to be processed until further notice, according to Lopez."We will reopen as soon as we receive the all clear. Thank you for your understanding. We value our community's support," Lopez noted.

Salvation Army thrift store closes temporarily

Three teens were injured in a single-vehicle accident Thursday evening east of Salina.

Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that at 6:15 p.m Thursday, emergency personnel were dispatched to the intersection of Country Club Road and Woodward Road for the report of a single-vehicle accident. A 2002 Ford Taurus stationwagon driven by Kylah Pittenger, 17, of Salina, was traveling too fast and missed the turn south onto Woodward Road from eastbound Country Club Road, Soldan said. The car went into the ditch and struck an AT&amp;T utility box, he said.

Pittenger and two passengers, a 13-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy, were transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries, Soldan said. Two other passengers, two 14-year-old boys, were not injured, he said.

The car sustained front end and right side damage, he said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721549649.jpeg" alt="Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office" />
 <figcaption>Photos courtesy Saline County Sheriff's Office</figcaption>
 </figure>Three teens were injured in a single-vehicle accident Thursday evening east of Salina.Saline County Sheriff Roger Soldan said this morning that at 6:15 p.m Thursday, emergency personnel were dispatched to the intersection of Country Club Road and Woodward Road for the report of a single-vehicle accident. A 2002 Ford Taurus stationwagon driven by Kylah Pittenger, 17, of Salina, was traveling too fast and missed the turn south onto Woodward Road from eastbound Country Club Road, Soldan said. The car went into the ditch and struck an AT&amp;T utility box, he said.Pittenger and two passengers, a 13-year-old boy and 14-year-old boy, were transported by EMS to Salina Regional Health Center with non-life-threatening injuries, Soldan said. Two other passengers, two 14-year-old boys, were not injured, he said.The car sustained front end and right side damage, he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721518647.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

Three teens injured in single-vehicle accident

The City of Salina has authorized restaurants in the downtown district to place private signs reserving up to four public parking spaces per restaurant for 15 minute takeout customer parking.

This decision was made due to the following:

• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

• Governor Laura Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

The City of Salina has authorized restaurants in the downtown district to place private signs reserving up to four public parking spaces per restaurant for 15 minute takeout customer parking.This decision was made due to the following:• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.• Governor Laura Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

Additional parking spaces for carryout OK'd for downtown

On March 16, 2020, Salina Police received a report of unlawful use of a financial card. 

The victim reported that she participated in the Pub Crawl on March 14, 2020, and misplaced her debit card. This card was used at several Pub Crawl locations in Salina on March 14, 2020.

Surveillance photos captured a possible person involved. Police are seeking to identify the person shown in the photograph. 

If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow the Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584706481495.jpeg" alt="The Salina Police Department is trying to ID this person. Photo courtesy Crimestoppers" />
 <figcaption>The Salina Police Department is trying to ID this person. Photo courtesy Crimestoppers</figcaption>
 </figure>On March 16, 2020, Salina Police received a report of unlawful use of a financial card. The victim reported that she participated in the Pub Crawl on March 14, 2020, and misplaced her debit card. This card was used at several Pub Crawl locations in Salina on March 14, 2020.Surveillance photos captured a possible person involved. Police are seeking to identify the person shown in the photograph. If you have any information concerning this event, call Crimestoppers at 825-TIPS, text SATIPS to CRIMES (274637, or visit <a href="http://www.pd.salina.org">www.pd.salina.org</a> and follow the Crimestoppers link to submit a web tip. You may receive a cash reward of up to $1,000, and you are not required to give your name.

Crimestoppers seeks ID of person who used card

CONCORDIA -- In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the Cloud County Community College Foundation has announced that its annual scholarship auction, scheduled for April 25, will be postponed.

“This is not a decision that we have taken lightly,” said Heather Gennette, director of the foundation. “As much as we would like to carry on with the event, the health, safety and security of our attendees, staff, volunteers, and students is of upmost importance to us. We intend to reschedule the event as soon as conditions allow.”

--<a href="http://cloud.edu">CCCC</a>--

CONCORDIA -- In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19, the Cloud County Community College Foundation has announced that its annual scholarship auction, scheduled for April 25, will be postponed.“This is not a decision that we have taken lightly,” said Heather Gennette, director of the foundation. “As much as we would like to carry on with the event, the health, safety and security of our attendees, staff, volunteers, and students is of upmost importance to us. We intend to reschedule the event as soon as conditions allow.”--<a href="http://cloud.edu">CCCC</a>--

CCCC Foundation postpones annual scholarship auction

The tobacco cessation classes offered by the Tammy Walker Cancer Center beginning later this month will be offered via phone or computer, rather than in person.

According to information from TWCC, the classes scheduled to begin on March 31 will now be available for participants to attend on their phone or computer via Zoom. There will be no class held at Tammy Walker Cancer Center. 

Participants who are interested in the tobacco cessation classes can call or email Daniel Craig, TWCC cancer outreach coordinator, to receive the Zoom connection information and the group materials via email that they will need to participate in the class. Craig can be reached at dacraig@srhc.com or 785-452-4848.

Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 31-June 2 (no sessions May 12 and May 26)

According to Craig, another great tobacco cessation program is the Kansas Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) which provides free phone counseling to any Kansan ready to quit tobacco.  The Kansas Tobacco Quitline provides help setting a quit date, tips to change your habits related to smoking or chewing, and ways to cope with cravings and withdrawal.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584669213645.jpeg" alt="Image courtesy Tammy Walker Cancer Center" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy Tammy Walker Cancer Center</figcaption>
 </figure>The tobacco cessation classes offered by the Tammy Walker Cancer Center beginning later this month will be offered via phone or computer, rather than in person.According to information from TWCC, the classes scheduled to begin on March 31 will now be available for participants to attend on their phone or computer via Zoom. There will be no class held at Tammy Walker Cancer Center. Participants who are interested in the tobacco cessation classes can call or email Daniel Craig, TWCC cancer outreach coordinator, to receive the Zoom connection information and the group materials via email that they will need to participate in the class. Craig can be reached at dacraig@srhc.com or 785-452-4848.Tobacco Cessation Classes&nbsp;Tuesdays, 5:30-6:30 p.m. March 31-June 2 (no sessions May 12 and May 26)According to Craig, another great tobacco cessation program is the Kansas Tobacco Quitline (1-800-QUIT-NOW) which provides free phone counseling to any Kansan ready to quit tobacco. The Kansas Tobacco Quitline provides help setting a quit date, tips to change your habits related to smoking or chewing, and ways to cope with cravings and withdrawal.