BROWN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has canceled the Endangered Persons Advisory issued for 16-year-old Tia Howard.

The Brown County Sheriff’s Office reported that Tia Howard was located Monday afternoon in Rulo, Nebraska and is being returned home.

BROWN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Brown County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing 16-year-old, according to a media release from the agency.

We request the public’s help in locating 16-year-old Tia Howard. Tia is believed to have run away. She was last seen on Sunday, March 27 at approximately 10:30 p.m. at her home in rural Hiawatha. Tia is believed to have left in an unknown vehicle near 260th&nbsp;Rd. and Linden in Hiawatha. The Brown County Sheriff’s Office is concerned for her welfare.

Tia is a white female, approximately 5-foot-6 in. tall and weighs approximately 120 pounds She has reddish brown hair and blue eyes. Tia was last seen wearing black yoga pants, a black Under Armour hoodie with pink lettering, and white Crocs shoes.

If you know the whereabouts of Tia, or have seen her, please call 911 immediately. For all other information, call the Brown County Sheriff’s Office at (785) 742-7125.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648485358229.png" alt="Howard photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Howard photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) has canceled the Endangered Persons Advisory issued for 16-year-old Tia Howard.The Brown County Sheriff’s Office reported that Tia Howard was located Monday afternoon in Rulo, Nebraska and is being returned home.——-BROWN COUNTY –&nbsp;The Brown County Sheriff’s Office requested that the Kansas Bureau of Investigation (KBI) issue an endangered persons advisory for a missing 16-year-old, according to a media release from the agency.We request the public’s help in locating 16-year-old Tia Howard. Tia is believed to have run away. She was last seen on Sunday, March 27 at approximately 10:30 p.m. at her home in rural Hiawatha. Tia is believed to have left in an unknown vehicle near 260th&nbsp;Rd. and Linden in Hiawatha. The Brown County Sheriff’s Office is concerned for her welfare.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648485338730.png" alt="Howard-photo KBI" />
 <figcaption>Howard-photo KBI</figcaption>
 </figure>Tia is a white female, approximately 5-foot-6 in. tall and weighs approximately 120 pounds She has reddish brown hair and blue eyes. Tia was last seen wearing black yoga pants, a black Under Armour hoodie with pink lettering, and white Crocs shoes.If you know the whereabouts of Tia, or have seen her, please call 911 immediately. For all other information, call the Brown County Sheriff’s Office at (785) 742-7125.

KBI: 16-year-old Kansas teen found safe in Nebraska 

MARION COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; the death of a man in Marion County.

On Sunday, the Marion County sheriff's deputies responded to an address in Lehigh reference a person unresponsive, according to a media release.

  Through their investigation, it was determined an altercation occurred in McPherson County around in the 1000 of 21st Avene.

 The McPherson County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the altercation that occurred in McPherson County.  The Marion County Sheriff’s Office informed the sheriff's office a 32-year-old man was found deceased. 

Authorities released no additional details on Monday afternoon. Anyone with information on this incident, please contact the McPherson County Sheriff’s office.

MARION COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating&nbsp; the death of a man in Marion County.On Sunday, the Marion County sheriff's deputies responded to an address in Lehigh reference a person unresponsive, according to a media release. Through their investigation, it was determined an altercation occurred in McPherson County around in the 1000 of 21st Avene. The McPherson County Sheriff’s Office was notified of the altercation that occurred in McPherson County. The Marion County Sheriff’s Office informed the sheriff's office a 32-year-old man was found deceased. Authorities released no additional details on Monday afternoon. Anyone with information on this incident, please contact the McPherson County Sheriff’s office.

Sheriff: Man found dead after altercation in McPherson Co.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Monday asserted it is “more likely than not” that former President Donald Trump committed crimes in his attempt to stop the certification of the 2020 election, ruling to order&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-crime-donald-trump-united-states-presidential-elections-d6f316446682ea36e85e2fc4e0581a87">the release of more than 100 emails from Trump adviser John Eastman&nbsp;</a>to the committee investigating the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.

The ruling by U.S. District Court Judge David Carter marked a major legal win for the House panel as it looks to correspondence from Eastman, the lawyer who was consulting with Trump as he attempted to overturn the presidential election.

“Based on the evidence, the Court finds it more likely than not that President Trump corruptly attempted to obstruct the Joint Session of Congress on January 6, 2021,” Carter, who was nominated by former President Bill Clinton, wrote in the ruling submitted in the federal Central District of California.

Eastman was trying to withhold documents from the committee on the basis of an attorney-client privilege claim between him and the former president. The committee responded earlier this month, arguing that there is a legal exception allowing the disclosure of communications regarding ongoing or future crimes.

An attorney representing Eastman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The March 3 filing from the committee was their most formal effort to link the former president to a federal crime. Lawmakers do not have the power to bring criminal charges on their own and can only make a referral to the Justice Department. The department has been investigating last year’s riot, but it has not given any indication that it is considering seeking charges against Trump.

The committee argued in the court documents that Trump and his associates engaged in a “criminal conspiracy” to prevent Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College. Trump and those working with him then spread false information about the outcome of the presidential election and pressured state officials to overturn the results, potentially violating multiple federal laws, the panel said.

The trove of documents the nine-member panel has publicly released so far, which include some emails already retrieved from Eastman, offers an early look at some of the panel’s likely conclusions, which are expected to be submitted in the coming months. The committee says it has interviewed more than 650 witnesses as it investigates the violent siege by Trump supporters, the worst attack on the Capitol in more than two centuries.

WASHINGTON (AP) — A federal judge on Monday asserted it is “more likely than not” that former President Donald Trump committed crimes in his attempt to stop the certification of the 2020 election, ruling to order&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/capitol-siege-crime-donald-trump-united-states-presidential-elections-d6f316446682ea36e85e2fc4e0581a87">the release of more than 100 emails from Trump adviser John Eastman&nbsp;</a>to the committee investigating the insurrection at the U.S. Capitol.The ruling by U.S. District Court Judge David Carter marked a major legal win for the House panel as it looks to correspondence from Eastman, the lawyer who was consulting with Trump as he attempted to overturn the presidential election.“Based on the evidence, the Court finds it more likely than not that President Trump corruptly attempted to obstruct the Joint Session of Congress on January 6, 2021,” Carter, who was nominated by former President Bill Clinton, wrote in the ruling submitted in the federal Central District of California.Eastman was trying to withhold documents from the committee on the basis of an attorney-client privilege claim between him and the former president. The committee responded earlier this month, arguing that there is a legal exception allowing the disclosure of communications regarding ongoing or future crimes.An attorney representing Eastman did not immediately respond to a request for comment.The March 3 filing from the committee was their most formal effort to link the former president to a federal crime. Lawmakers do not have the power to bring criminal charges on their own and can only make a referral to the Justice Department. The department has been investigating last year’s riot, but it has not given any indication that it is considering seeking charges against Trump.The committee argued in the court documents that Trump and his associates engaged in a “criminal conspiracy” to prevent Congress from certifying Democrat Joe Biden’s victory in the Electoral College. Trump and those working with him then spread false information about the outcome of the presidential election and pressured state officials to overturn the results, potentially violating multiple federal laws, the panel said.The trove of documents the nine-member panel has publicly released so far, which include some emails already retrieved from Eastman, offers an early look at some of the panel’s likely conclusions, which are expected to be submitted in the coming months. The committee says it has interviewed more than 650 witnesses as it investigates the violent siege by Trump supporters, the worst attack on the Capitol in more than two centuries.

Judge: Trump likely committed crimes related to election

Having traveled the world leading medical mission trips, I have never seen a larger, more efficient and impactful humanitarian rescue than what myself and nine fellow U.S. Senators witnessed at the Ukraine-Poland border. These efforts are driven by the outpouring of love and compassion from the entire nation of Poland.

First and foremost, the basics of human dignity and the base of Maslow’s Pyramid: shelter, warmth, food, water, and a place for the weary to rest their heads were respectfully provided. Additionally, by opening up their homes, delivering healthcare, and arranging transportation to their next destination the Poles were giving hope and guidance to those so desperate for help. In fact, over half of the Poles have welcomed fleeing Ukrainians into their homes.

Just miles away, these refugees experienced the worst of humanity. All of the refugees&nbsp;we met, mostly moms and young children, told stories&nbsp;of war-torn homes and communities. They shared accounts of the deafening sounds of bombing,&nbsp;the never-ending ring of air raid sirens, and cries of their frightened children. Tears ran down their faces as they wondered about their brave husbands who vowed to fight for freedom and to defend what was left of their homeland. Their voices cracked and became faint as they mourned for parents and grandparents too feeble to make the dangerous trek. It was clear, they longed to go back to their home but mostly, they longed for peace.&nbsp;

One in four Ukrainians had their home destroyed by a war criminal – Vladimir Putin. Nearly 10 million Ukrainians are now refugees – roughly six and a half million still nomads in their own country while the rest have completely fled to neighboring nations. At the Polish refugee camp we visited – about 2.5 miles from the Ukrainian border – over 800,000 people have been processed, fed, and assisted in reaching another location. Thanks to the orchestrated efforts of the Poles,&nbsp;most refugees only stay for a few days until transportation is arranged for their next destination, often times heading to relatives or fellow countrymen in nearby countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In addition to the Poles’ heroic efforts, we saw the ground shaking actions of the Germans who with a $100 billion addition to their military budget this year will now meet their NATO pledge of committing more than two percent of their GDP towards defense. As&nbsp;the economic leader of the EU, and fourth largest economy in the world, this was a shot heard around the world.&nbsp;We met with leaders from the German parliament – their commitment&nbsp;to help Ukrainians was evident. This staunch commitment will create a renaissance&nbsp;of transatlantic relationships and inspire freedom-loving nations&nbsp;to follow in their footsteps in making the world a safer place.&nbsp;

My trust and confidence in Ukraine’s neighboring nations was not the only thing confirmed and bolstered on this trip. Our own military’s strength and presence in Europe is evident. With over 100,000 American troops in the European theatre, and having spent decades of training with our NATO partners, I’m confident in NATO’s ability to contain the madman that is Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;

America should be proud of our military – they are doing incredible work to assure allies and deter Russian aggression against NATO. The U.S. military’s previous efforts to help train the Ukrainian military has been instrumental in their ability to hold off Russia’s advances. No doubt, this training increased Ukraine’s odds of success in having shot down Russian planes. Like American soldiers tell us over and over, we are grateful for what our allies have taught us and for the opportunity to train with their soldiers, as well as within these NATO nations’ borders.&nbsp;

Many have asked about Putin’s willingness to use nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;While it’s impossible to predict the&nbsp;actions of a paranoid, over-confident war monger, we cannot hesitate to do the right thing. And the right thing is to assist the brave Ukrainians in every way we can short of a direct American-Russian conflict. Putin will not respond to rhetoric. He knows only actions. We must lead by encouraging the free world to isolate Russia, and encouraging our NATO Allies to step up.&nbsp;

But, there is more we can do: all businesses around the world must immediately halt all business with Russia;&nbsp;President Biden&nbsp;must put an end to Russian imports and enforce all sanctions now; an international tribunal must immediately be formed, and war crime charges be drawn up against Putin and leaders of his military; Russian assets must be seized to rebuild Ukraine; all weapons requests from Ukraine must be honored immediately; and we must find a way to mass communicate to the people&nbsp;of Russia to expose Putin’s demonic actions.

The Ukrainian people don’t need speeches, they don’t need words, and they don’t need resolutions. They need action. They can win this war. But, the world has to step up. To whom much is given, much will be required. The U.S. has been given so much. We are still the leader of the free world. We need to start acting like it.

Republican Roger Marshall, M.D., represents Kansas in the U.S. Senate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648497543006.png" alt="Senator Marshall visiting with U.S. troops in eastern Europe on March 20-courtesy photo" />
 <figcaption>Senator Marshall visiting with U.S. troops in eastern Europe on March 20-courtesy photo</figcaption>
 </figure>By United State's Senator Roger MarshallHaving traveled the world leading medical mission trips, I have never seen a larger, more efficient and impactful humanitarian rescue than what myself and nine fellow U.S. Senators witnessed at the Ukraine-Poland border. These efforts are driven by the outpouring of love and compassion from the entire nation of Poland.First and foremost, the basics of human dignity and the base of Maslow’s Pyramid: shelter, warmth, food, water, and a place for the weary to rest their heads were respectfully provided. Additionally, by opening up their homes, delivering healthcare, and arranging transportation to their next destination the Poles were giving hope and guidance to those so desperate for help. In fact, over half of the Poles have welcomed fleeing Ukrainians into their homes.Just miles away, these refugees experienced the worst of humanity. All of the refugees&nbsp;we met, mostly moms and young children, told stories&nbsp;of war-torn homes and communities. They shared accounts of the deafening sounds of bombing,&nbsp;the never-ending ring of air raid sirens, and cries of their frightened children. Tears ran down their faces as they wondered about their brave husbands who vowed to fight for freedom and to defend what was left of their homeland. Their voices cracked and became faint as they mourned for parents and grandparents too feeble to make the dangerous trek. It was clear, they longed to go back to their home but mostly, they longed for peace.&nbsp;One in four Ukrainians had their home destroyed by a war criminal – Vladimir Putin. Nearly 10 million Ukrainians are now refugees – roughly six and a half million still nomads in their own country while the rest have completely fled to neighboring nations. At the Polish refugee camp we visited – about 2.5 miles from the Ukrainian border – over 800,000 people have been processed, fed, and assisted in reaching another location. Thanks to the orchestrated efforts of the Poles,&nbsp;most refugees only stay for a few days until transportation is arranged for their next destination, often times heading to relatives or fellow countrymen in nearby countries.&nbsp;&nbsp;In addition to the Poles’ heroic efforts, we saw the ground shaking actions of the Germans who with a $100 billion addition to their military budget this year will now meet their NATO pledge of committing more than two percent of their GDP towards defense. As&nbsp;the economic leader of the EU, and fourth largest economy in the world, this was a shot heard around the world.&nbsp;We met with leaders from the German parliament – their commitment&nbsp;to help Ukrainians was evident. This staunch commitment will create a renaissance&nbsp;of transatlantic relationships and inspire freedom-loving nations&nbsp;to follow in their footsteps in making the world a safer place.&nbsp;My trust and confidence in Ukraine’s neighboring nations was not the only thing confirmed and bolstered on this trip. Our own military’s strength and presence in Europe is evident. With over 100,000 American troops in the European theatre, and having spent decades of training with our NATO partners, I’m confident in NATO’s ability to contain the madman that is Vladimir Putin.&nbsp;America should be proud of our military – they are doing incredible work to assure allies and deter Russian aggression against NATO. The U.S. military’s previous efforts to help train the Ukrainian military has been instrumental in their ability to hold off Russia’s advances. No doubt, this training increased Ukraine’s odds of success in having shot down Russian planes. Like American soldiers tell us over and over, we are grateful for what our allies have taught us and for the opportunity to train with their soldiers, as well as within these NATO nations’ borders.&nbsp;Many have asked about Putin’s willingness to use nuclear or other weapons of mass destruction.&nbsp;While it’s impossible to predict the&nbsp;actions of a paranoid, over-confident war monger, we cannot hesitate to do the right thing. And the right thing is to assist the brave Ukrainians in every way we can short of a direct American-Russian conflict. Putin will not respond to rhetoric. He knows only actions. We must lead by encouraging the free world to isolate Russia, and encouraging our NATO Allies to step up.&nbsp;But, there is more we can do: all businesses around the world must immediately halt all business with Russia;&nbsp;President Biden&nbsp;must put an end to Russian imports and enforce all sanctions now; an international tribunal must immediately be formed, and war crime charges be drawn up against Putin and leaders of his military; Russian assets must be seized to rebuild Ukraine; all weapons requests from Ukraine must be honored immediately; and we must find a way to mass communicate to the people&nbsp;of Russia to expose Putin’s demonic actions.The Ukrainian people don’t need speeches, they don’t need words, and they don’t need resolutions. They need action. They can win this war. But, the world has to step up. To whom much is given, much will be required. The U.S. has been given so much. We are still the leader of the free world. We need to start acting like it.Republican Roger Marshall, M.D., represents Kansas in the U.S. Senate.

Marshall: Ukrainians can win this war but the world has to step up

HUTCHINSON—Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire that destroyed a home in Hutchinson on Monday.

Just after 5a.m., crews responded to 315 Walker Street where they found approximately 1000 square feet of a home on fire, according to Fire Chief Steven Beer.

Firefighters initially had to attack the fire from outside. Once the fire was knocked down, as they put out the fire inside they found a large amount of debris and material in the structure that hampered their search.

One dog was rescued from the fire and turned over to animal control in good condition, according to Beer.&nbsp; There were no other injuries.&nbsp; Beer did not release an estimated damage loss.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648493838396.png" alt="Photo Hutchinson Fire Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Hutchinson Fire Department</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON—Authorities are working to determine the cause of a fire that destroyed a home in Hutchinson on Monday.Just after 5a.m., crews responded to 315 Walker Street where they found approximately 1000 square feet of a home on fire, according to Fire Chief Steven Beer.Firefighters initially had to attack the fire from outside. Once the fire was knocked down, as they put out the fire inside they found a large amount of debris and material in the structure that hampered their search.One dog was rescued from the fire and turned over to animal control in good condition, according to Beer.&nbsp; There were no other injuries.&nbsp; Beer did not release an estimated damage loss.

Fire Chief: Dog rescued in fire that destroyed Kansas home

WASHINGTON (AP) — The FBI is warning that it has seen increased interest by Russian hackers in energy companies since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine, though it is offering no indication that a specific cyberattack is planned.

An FBI advisory obtained by The Associated Press says Russian hackers have scanned at least five energy companies for vulnerabilities and at least 18 other companies in sectors including the defense industrial base and financial services. The advisory does not identify any of the companies.

Scanning a network for flaws or vulnerabilities is common and does not indicate that an attack is forthcoming, though the activity can sometimes be a precursor of one. Still, the warning by the FBI, dated Friday, underscores the Biden administration’s heightened cybersecurity concerns due to Russia’s war with Ukraine.

On Monday, the White House said there was “evolving intelligence” indicating that Russia was considering launching cyberattacks against critical infrastructure in the U.S. Anne Neuberger, the White House’s deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technologies, expressed frustration at a White House press briefing that some critical infrastructure entities have failed to fix known software flaws that could be exploited by Russian hackers.

Meanwhile, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency convened a call Tuesday with more than 13,000 industry stakeholders to warn about the potential for future cyberattacks and to reinforce the need to act now to protect themselves.

The FBI advisory shares 140 internet protocol, or IP, addresses that it says have been previously associated with the scanning of critical infrastructure in the U.S. since at least March 2021. That scanning has increased since the start of the war last month, the alert says, “leading to a greater possibility of future intrusions.”

The advisory says that though the FBI recognizes that scanning activity is common, the IP addresses are associated with cyber actors who have previously “conducted destructive cyber activity against foreign critical infrastructure.” In this instance, the advisory said, the scanning activity “likely indicates early stages of reconnaisance.”

WASHINGTON (AP) — The FBI is warning that it has seen increased interest by Russian hackers in energy companies since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine, though it is offering no indication that a specific cyberattack is planned.An FBI advisory obtained by The Associated Press says Russian hackers have scanned at least five energy companies for vulnerabilities and at least 18 other companies in sectors including the defense industrial base and financial services. The advisory does not identify any of the companies.Scanning a network for flaws or vulnerabilities is common and does not indicate that an attack is forthcoming, though the activity can sometimes be a precursor of one. Still, the warning by the FBI, dated Friday, underscores the Biden administration’s heightened cybersecurity concerns due to Russia’s war with Ukraine.On Monday, the White House said there was “evolving intelligence” indicating that Russia was considering launching cyberattacks against critical infrastructure in the U.S. Anne Neuberger, the White House’s deputy national security adviser for cyber and emerging technologies, expressed frustration at a White House press briefing that some critical infrastructure entities have failed to fix known software flaws that could be exploited by Russian hackers.Meanwhile, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency convened a call Tuesday with more than 13,000 industry stakeholders to warn about the potential for future cyberattacks and to reinforce the need to act now to protect themselves.The FBI advisory shares 140 internet protocol, or IP, addresses that it says have been previously associated with the scanning of critical infrastructure in the U.S. since at least March 2021. That scanning has increased since the start of the war last month, the alert says, “leading to a greater possibility of future intrusions.”The advisory says that though the FBI recognizes that scanning activity is common, the IP addresses are associated with cyber actors who have previously “conducted destructive cyber activity against foreign critical infrastructure.” In this instance, the advisory said, the scanning activity “likely indicates early stages of reconnaisance.”____

FBI: Growing Russian hacker interest in US energy firms

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 150 to a total of 769,850 the state health department reported Monday.

The state reported 1 additional COVID-19 death for a total of 8,222 and 17 new hospitalizations since Friday.

<a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.

As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;

Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

TOPEKA — The number of confirmed coronavirus cases* (see below) in Kansas increased by 150 to a total of 769,850 the state health department reported Monday.The state reported 1 additional COVID-19 death for a total of 8,222 and 17 new hospitalizations since Friday.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648486476465.png" alt="Monday March 28, 2022 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>Monday March 28, 2022 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://www.kansasvaccine.gov/158/Data">Click here for Data</a> about the COVID-19 vaccine.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional virus numbers from the KDHE.As of August 1, 2021, in accordance with an&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">updated CDC/CSTE surveillance case definition</a>, a confirmed case is defined as a person who tested positive by molecular detection (e.g., PCR, NAA) or identification of SARS-CoV-2 through genetic sequencing. A probable case is defined as a person with: a) presumptive lab evidence (antigen) or b) no lab testing but meeting clinical case criteria and is epi-linked. A person will be counted as a new surveillance case (e.g. reinfection) if they test positive for SARS-CoV-2 by a diagnostic test (i.e., molecular, antigen) and it has been greater than 90 days since the previous positive diagnostic test. In addition, a person with sequencing results identifying different SARS-CoV-2 lineages regardless of the time since the previous specimen sequenced will be counted as a new surveillance case.&nbsp;Cases occurring between&nbsp;September 1, 2020&nbsp;and July 29, 2021 were classified by&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/conditions/coronavirus-disease-2019-covid-19/" target="_blank">previous CDC/CSTE case definition,&nbsp;</a>and cases prior to September 1, 2020 were classified by the&nbsp;<a href="https://ndc.services.cdc.gov/case-definitions/coronavirus-disease-2019-2020/" target="_blank">original case definition</a>.

KDHE: Latest COVID-19 numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden intends to propose a minimum tax of 20% on households worth more than $100 million and cut projected budget deficits by more than $1 trillion over the next decade, according to a fact sheets released Saturday by the White House budget office.

The introduction of the minimum tax on the wealthiest Americans would represent a significant reorienting of the tax code. It would apply to the top 0.01% of households with half of the expected revenue coming from households worth $1 billion or more. The minimum tax would effectively prevent the wealthiest sliver of America from paying lower rates than families who think of themselves as middle class, while helping to generate revenues to fuel Biden’s domestic ambitions and keep the deficit in check relative to the U.S. economy.

In his proposal expected Monday, the lower deficits also reflect the economy’s resurgence as the United States emerges from the pandemic. It’s a sign that the government’s balance sheet will improve after a historic burst of spending to combat the coronavirus.

The fading of the pandemic and the growth has enabled the deficit to fall from $3.1 trillion in fiscal 2020 to $2.8 trillion last year and a projected $1.4 trillion this year. That deficit spending paid off in the form of the economy expanding at a 5.7% pace last year, the strongest growth since 1984. But inflation at a 40-year high also accompanied those robust gains as high prices have weighed on Biden’s popularity.

For the Biden administration, the proposal for the budget year that begins Oct. 1 shows that the burst of spending helped to fuel growth and put government finances in a more stable place for years to come as a result. One White House official, insisting on anonymity because the budget has yet to be released, said the proposal shows that Democrats can deliver on what Republicans have promised before without much success: faster growth and falling deficits.

Yet the Biden budget would pledge to do so through a kind of wealth tax that many Republicans say would hurt the economy by diminishing private investment in companies that create jobs and cause the wealthy to put their fortunes to work abroad.

Republican lawmakers have said that the Biden administration’s spending over the past year has led to greater economic pain in the form of higher prices. The inflation that came with reopening the U.S. economy as the closures from the pandemic began to end has been amplified by supply chain issues, low interest rates and, now, disruptions in the oil and natural gas markets because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky pinned the blame solely on Biden’s coronavirus relief as well as his push to move away from fossil fuels.

“Washington Democrats’ response to these hardships has been as misguided as the war on American energy and runaway spending that helped create them,” McConnell said last week. “The Biden administration seems to be willing to try anything but walking back their own disastrous economic policies.”

Biden inherited from the Trump administration a budget deficit that was equal in size to 14.9% of the entire U.S. economy. But the deficit starting in the upcoming budget year will be below 5% of the economy, putting the country on a more sustainable path, according to people familiar with the budget proposal who insisted on anonymity to discuss forthcoming details.

The lower deficit totals will also be easier to manage even if interest rates rise.

The expected deficit decrease for fiscal 2022 reflects the solid recovery in hiring that occurred in large part because of Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package. The added jobs mean additional tax revenue, with the government likely collecting $300 billion more in revenues compared to fiscal 2021, a 10% increase.

Still, the country will face several uncertainties that could reshape Biden’s proposed budget, which will have figures that don’t include the spending omnibus recently signed into law. Biden and U.S. allies are also providing aid to Ukrainians who are fighting against Russian forces, a war that could possibly reshape spending priorities and the broader economic outlook.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647908095685.png" alt="The introduction of the minimum tax on the wealthiest Americans would represent a significant reorienting of the tax code.-White House photo&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>The introduction of the minimum tax on the wealthiest Americans would represent a significant reorienting of the tax code.-White House photo&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden intends to propose a minimum tax of 20% on households worth more than $100 million and cut projected budget deficits by more than $1 trillion over the next decade, according to a fact sheets released Saturday by the White House budget office.The introduction of the minimum tax on the wealthiest Americans would represent a significant reorienting of the tax code. It would apply to the top 0.01% of households with half of the expected revenue coming from households worth $1 billion or more. The minimum tax would effectively prevent the wealthiest sliver of America from paying lower rates than families who think of themselves as middle class, while helping to generate revenues to fuel Biden’s domestic ambitions and keep the deficit in check relative to the U.S. economy.In his proposal expected Monday, the lower deficits also reflect the economy’s resurgence as the United States emerges from the pandemic. It’s a sign that the government’s balance sheet will improve after a historic burst of spending to combat the coronavirus.The fading of the pandemic and the growth has enabled the deficit to fall from $3.1 trillion in fiscal 2020 to $2.8 trillion last year and a projected $1.4 trillion this year. That deficit spending paid off in the form of the economy expanding at a 5.7% pace last year, the strongest growth since 1984. But inflation at a 40-year high also accompanied those robust gains as high prices have weighed on Biden’s popularity.For the Biden administration, the proposal for the budget year that begins Oct. 1 shows that the burst of spending helped to fuel growth and put government finances in a more stable place for years to come as a result. One White House official, insisting on anonymity because the budget has yet to be released, said the proposal shows that Democrats can deliver on what Republicans have promised before without much success: faster growth and falling deficits.Yet the Biden budget would pledge to do so through a kind of wealth tax that many Republicans say would hurt the economy by diminishing private investment in companies that create jobs and cause the wealthy to put their fortunes to work abroad.Republican lawmakers have said that the Biden administration’s spending over the past year has led to greater economic pain in the form of higher prices. The inflation that came with reopening the U.S. economy as the closures from the pandemic began to end has been amplified by supply chain issues, low interest rates and, now, disruptions in the oil and natural gas markets because of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky pinned the blame solely on Biden’s coronavirus relief as well as his push to move away from fossil fuels.“Washington Democrats’ response to these hardships has been as misguided as the war on American energy and runaway spending that helped create them,” McConnell said last week. “The Biden administration seems to be willing to try anything but walking back their own disastrous economic policies.”Biden inherited from the Trump administration a budget deficit that was equal in size to 14.9% of the entire U.S. economy. But the deficit starting in the upcoming budget year will be below 5% of the economy, putting the country on a more sustainable path, according to people familiar with the budget proposal who insisted on anonymity to discuss forthcoming details.The lower deficit totals will also be easier to manage even if interest rates rise.The expected deficit decrease for fiscal 2022 reflects the solid recovery in hiring that occurred in large part because of Biden’s $1.9 trillion coronavirus relief package. The added jobs mean additional tax revenue, with the government likely collecting $300 billion more in revenues compared to fiscal 2021, a 10% increase.Still, the country will face several uncertainties that could reshape Biden’s proposed budget, which will have figures that don’t include the spending omnibus recently signed into law. Biden and U.S. allies are also providing aid to Ukrainians who are fighting against Russian forces, a war that could possibly reshape spending priorities and the broader economic outlook.

Biden budget seeks minimum tax on the wealthiest Americans

PAWNEE COUNTY, Nebraska —The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a three-day search operation as part of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Linda Dillard. Although the search effort did not locate Dillard’s remains, significant ground was covered that will assist in the investigation, according to a media release from the patrol.

“What our investigators learned this week directs the case into the next phase,” said Lt. Eric Jones, of NSP Investigative Services. “We are now confident that Linda is not in this large area. Our investigators continue to believe Linda may have been the victim of a crime. We urge anyone with information or anyone who was involved in her disappearance to come forward.”

Numerous tips have been received through Nebraska Crime Stoppers and other avenues in recent days.&nbsp;Nebraska Crime Stoppers continues to offer a reward for information in this investigation. Tips can be made anonymously through Nebraska Crime Stoppers via the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnebraskacrimestoppers.com%2Fsitemenu.aspx%3FID%3D450%26&amp;data=04%7C01%7CCody.Thomas%40nebraska.gov%7C6739601934704ed3192e08da0dda4284%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637837528319241270%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=80IHHxHzkjz80pimGYGjKx7ochIEyG0sg7%2Fpy2U9%2BuU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.

Throughout the three-day operation, teams searched more than 1,100 acres of land in and around the Table Rock State Wildlife Management Area, 24 miles of roadside ditches, 1.5 miles of river, 2 local farms, and a local lake area. The search team consisted of 44 law enforcement officers, 65 volunteers and support personnel, 15 mounted patrol teams, and 8 dog teams trained for human remains detection.

“We’d like to thank our partners in this week’s operation,” said Lt. Jones. “This large effort would not have been possible without their assistance.”

The search operation included partners from multiple states, including the Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, NecroSearch International, Brown County (KS) Mounted Search and Rescue, Saline County (KS) Mounted Patrol and Rescue, Sedgwick County (KS) Emergency Management, HRD Canine Search and Rescue Teams, University of Nebraska Department of Forensic Anthropology, Kawasaki of Lincoln, and the Tiger Pride Community Group of Table Rock.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648235986587.jpeg" alt="The Saline County Mounted Patrol and Rescue assisted with the search" />
 <figcaption>The Saline County Mounted Patrol and Rescue assisted with the search</figcaption>
 </figure>PAWNEE COUNTY, Nebraska —The Nebraska State Patrol has completed a three-day search operation as part of the ongoing investigation into the disappearance of Linda Dillard. Although the search effort did not locate Dillard’s remains, significant ground was covered that will assist in the investigation, according to a media release from the patrol.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648419914185.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>“What our investigators learned this week directs the case into the next phase,” said Lt. Eric Jones, of NSP Investigative Services. “We are now confident that Linda is not in this large area. Our investigators continue to believe Linda may have been the victim of a crime. We urge anyone with information or anyone who was involved in her disappearance to come forward.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648420084724.png" alt="photo courtesy Nebraska State patrol" />
 <figcaption>photo courtesy Nebraska State patrol</figcaption>
 </figure>Numerous tips have been received through Nebraska Crime Stoppers and other avenues in recent days.&nbsp;Nebraska Crime Stoppers continues to offer a reward for information in this investigation. Tips can be made anonymously through Nebraska Crime Stoppers via the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc02.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fnebraskacrimestoppers.com%2Fsitemenu.aspx%3FID%3D450%26&amp;data=04%7C01%7CCody.Thomas%40nebraska.gov%7C6739601934704ed3192e08da0dda4284%7C043207dfe6894bf6902001038f11f0b1%7C0%7C0%7C637837528319241270%7CUnknown%7CTWFpbGZsb3d8eyJWIjoiMC4wLjAwMDAiLCJQIjoiV2luMzIiLCJBTiI6Ik1haWwiLCJXVCI6Mn0%3D%7C3000&amp;sdata=80IHHxHzkjz80pimGYGjKx7ochIEyG0sg7%2Fpy2U9%2BuU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Nebraska Crime Stoppers website,</a>&nbsp;the “P3 Tips” mobile app, or by calling 1-800-422-1494.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648153611035.png" alt="The Sedgwick County Emergency Management’s K9 Search and Rescue Team" />
 <figcaption>The Sedgwick County Emergency Management’s K9 Search and Rescue Team</figcaption>
 </figure>Throughout the three-day operation, teams searched more than 1,100 acres of land in and around the Table Rock State Wildlife Management Area, 24 miles of roadside ditches, 1.5 miles of river, 2 local farms, and a local lake area. The search team consisted of 44 law enforcement officers, 65 volunteers and support personnel, 15 mounted patrol teams, and 8 dog teams trained for human remains detection.“We’d like to thank our partners in this week’s operation,” said Lt. Jones. “This large effort would not have been possible without their assistance.”The search operation included partners from multiple states, including the Nebraska State Patrol, Nebraska Game and Parks Commission, Nebraska Emergency Management Agency, NecroSearch International, Brown County (KS) Mounted Search and Rescue, Saline County (KS) Mounted Patrol and Rescue, Sedgwick County (KS) Emergency Management, HRD Canine Search and Rescue Teams, University of Nebraska Department of Forensic Anthropology, Kawasaki of Lincoln, and the Tiger Pride Community Group of Table Rock.

No remains found after 3-day search for missing Neb. woman

LAWRENCE, Kan., Plastikon Healthcare, LLC is voluntarily recalling three (3) lots of Milk of Magnesia 2400 mg/30 mL Oral Suspension, one (1) lot of Acetaminophen 650mg/ 20.3mL, and six (6) lots of Magnesium Hydroxide 1200mg/Aluminum Hydroxide 1200mg/Simethicone 120mg per 30 mL to the hospital, clinic and patient level, according to a statement from the USDA. The products are being recalled due to microbial contamination and failure to properly investigate failed microbial testing.

Risk Statement: This product potentially could result in illness due to intestinal distress, such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.&nbsp; Individuals with a compromised immune system have a higher probability of developing a wide-spread, potentially life-threatening infection when ingesting or otherwise orally exposed to products contaminated by micro-organisms. To date, Plastikon has not received any customer complaints related to microbial concerns or reports of adverse events related to this recall.

Product indication, lot numbers, expiration dates and NDC information <a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/plastikon-healthcare-issues-voluntary-nationwide-recall-milk-magnesia-oral-suspension-2400-mg30-ml-0#recall-photos">are listed here. </a>The product is packaged for institutional use and is sold to clinics and hospitals nationwide in single use cups with a foil lid.&nbsp; The affected lots were distributed to Major Pharmaceuticals Distribution Center (wholesaler) between 5/1/2020 and 6/28/2021, who shipped to hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics nationwide.&nbsp; The products are private labeled for Major Pharmaceuticals.

Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Plastikon by phone at 785-330-7109 or email address (<a href="mailto:sdixon@plastikon.com">sdixon@plastikon.com</a>) Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm CST.&nbsp; Patients are advised to contact their doctor or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.

Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.

This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648462934041.png" alt="Image courtesy FDA" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy FDA</figcaption>
 </figure>LAWRENCE, Kan., Plastikon Healthcare, LLC is voluntarily recalling three (3) lots of Milk of Magnesia 2400 mg/30 mL Oral Suspension, one (1) lot of Acetaminophen 650mg/ 20.3mL, and six (6) lots of Magnesium Hydroxide 1200mg/Aluminum Hydroxide 1200mg/Simethicone 120mg per 30 mL to the hospital, clinic and patient level, according to a statement from the USDA. The products are being recalled due to microbial contamination and failure to properly investigate failed microbial testing.Risk Statement: This product potentially could result in illness due to intestinal distress, such as diarrhea or abdominal pain.&nbsp; Individuals with a compromised immune system have a higher probability of developing a wide-spread, potentially life-threatening infection when ingesting or otherwise orally exposed to products contaminated by micro-organisms. To date, Plastikon has not received any customer complaints related to microbial concerns or reports of adverse events related to this recall.Product indication, lot numbers, expiration dates and NDC information <a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/recalls-market-withdrawals-safety-alerts/plastikon-healthcare-issues-voluntary-nationwide-recall-milk-magnesia-oral-suspension-2400-mg30-ml-0#recall-photos">are listed here. </a>The product is packaged for institutional use and is sold to clinics and hospitals nationwide in single use cups with a foil lid.&nbsp; The affected lots were distributed to Major Pharmaceuticals Distribution Center (wholesaler) between 5/1/2020 and 6/28/2021, who shipped to hospitals, nursing homes, and clinics nationwide.&nbsp; The products are private labeled for Major Pharmaceuticals.Consumers with questions regarding this recall can contact Plastikon by phone at 785-330-7109 or email address (<a href="mailto:sdixon@plastikon.com">sdixon@plastikon.com</a>) Monday through Friday from 9 am to 4 pm CST.&nbsp; Patients are advised to contact their doctor or healthcare provider if they have experienced any problems that may be related to taking or using this drug product.Adverse reactions or quality problems experienced with the use of this product may be reported to the FDA's MedWatch Adverse Event Reporting program either online, by regular mail or by fax.<ul>
 <li>Complete and submit the report&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medwatch-fda-safety-information-and-adverse-event-reporting-program/reporting-serious-problems-fda">Online</a></li><li>Regular Mail or Fax:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.fda.gov/safety/medical-product-safety-information/medwatch-forms-fda-safety-reporting">Download form</a>&nbsp;or call 1- 800-332-1088 to request a reporting form, then complete and return to the address on the pre-addressed form, or submit by fax to 1-800-FDA-0178</li>
 </ul>This recall is being conducted with the knowledge of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

FDA: Milk of Magnesia recalled due to bacterial contamination

BROWN COUNTY —A Kansas man died from injuries an accident just before 11:30am. Saturday in Brown County.

A 2007 RAV 4 driven by Catherine Martinez was northbound on U.S. 73 near 140th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.

The SUV traveled to the shoulder of the road. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle rolled. Martinez and a passenger identified as Lincoln Brown of Horton were ejected.&nbsp;

Lifestar transported Martinez and Brown to KU Medical Center where he died, according to Merchant.&nbsp;

EMS transported a child in the SUV to Amberwell for treatment of minor injuries. She was properly restrained according to Merchant. The accident remains under investigation.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648464218544.png" alt="Photo Brown County Sheriff" />
 <figcaption>Photo Brown County Sheriff</figcaption>
 </figure>BROWN COUNTY —A Kansas man died from injuries an accident just before 11:30am. Saturday in Brown County.A 2007 RAV 4 driven by Catherine Martinez was northbound on U.S. 73 near 140th Road, according to Sheriff John Merchant.The SUV traveled to the shoulder of the road. The driver overcorrected and the vehicle rolled. Martinez and a passenger identified as Lincoln Brown of Horton were ejected.&nbsp;Lifestar transported Martinez and Brown to KU Medical Center where he died, according to Merchant.&nbsp;EMS transported a child in the SUV to Amberwell for treatment of minor injuries. She was properly restrained according to Merchant. The accident remains under investigation.

Kansas man dead after ejected in rollover crash

LVIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused the West of cowardice Sunday while another top official said Russia was trying to split the nation in two, like North and South Korea.

Zelenskyy made an exasperated plea for fighter jets and tanks to sustain a defense as his country continues battling Russia’s invading troops. Russia now says its main focus is on taking control of the eastern Donbas region, an apparent pullback from its earlier, more expansive goals, but one which is raising fears of a divided Ukraine.

Speaking after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-migration-world-war-ii-warsaw-652da1c2ab1c88de3032241089bfa516">U.S. President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said in a lacerating speech that Russian President Vladimir Putin could not stay in power —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-ketanji-brown-jackson-state-of-the-union-address-2022-midterm-elections-46757d4b4b7d4297245d7e6de8f2b290">words the White House immediately sought to downplay&nbsp;</a>— Zelenskyy lashed out at the West’s “ping-pong about who and how should hand over jets” and other weapons while Russian missile attacks kill and trap civilians.

“I’ve talked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-edf7240a9d990e7e3e32f82ca351dede">to the defenders of Mariupol&nbsp;</a>today. I’m in constant contact with them. Their determination, heroism and firmness are astonishing,” Zelenskyy said in a video address, referring to the besieged southern city that has suffered some of the war’s greatest deprivations and horrors. “If only those who have been thinking for 31 days on how to hand over dozens of jets and tanks had 1% of their courage.”

Zelenskyy also told independent Russian journalists Sunday that his government would consider declaring neutrality and offering security guarantees to Russia, repeating earlier statements. That would include keeping Ukraine nuclear-free, he said.

He told the reporters that the issue of neutrality – and agreeing to stay out of NATO – should be put to Ukrainian voters in a referendum after Russian troops withdraw. He said a vote could take place within a few months of the troops leaving.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has stalled in many areas. Its aim to quickly encircle the capital, Kyiv, and force its surrender has faltered against staunch Ukrainian resistance — bolstered by weapons from the U.S. and other Western allies.

Britain’s Defense Ministry said Russia’s troops are trying to encircle Ukrainian forces facing the two separatist-held areas in the country’s east. That would cut the bulk of Ukraine’s military off from the rest of the country.

Moscow claims its focus is on wresting the entire eastern Donbas region, which has been partially controlled by Russia-backed separatists since 2014. A high-ranking Russian military official on Friday said that troops were being redirected to the east from other parts of the country.

Russia has supported the separatist rebels in Luhansk and neighboring Donetsk since the insurgency erupted there shortly after Moscow annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine. In talks with Ukraine, Moscow has demanded Kyiv acknowledge the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk.

Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence, accused Russia of seeking to split Ukraine in two, making the comparison to North and South Korea.

“The occupiers will try to pull the occupied territories into a single quasi-state structure and pit it against independent Ukraine,” Budanov said in a statement released by the Defense Ministry. He predicted that guerrilla warfare by Ukrainians would derail such plans.

A Ukrainian delegate in talks with Russia on ending the war, Davyd Arakhamia, said in a Facebook post the countries would meet in Turkey beginning Monday. However, the Russians then announced the talks would start Tuesday. The sides have met previously with no deal reached.

Ukraine’s priorities at the Ukrainian-Russian talks in Turkey this week will be “sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Zelenskyy told his nation Sunday in his nightly address.

“We are looking for peace, really, without delay,” he said. “There is an opportunity and a need for a face-to-face meeting in Turkey.”

Zelenskyy also signed a law Sunday that bans reporting on troop and equipment movements that haven’t been announced or approved by the military. Journalists who violate the law could face three to eight years in prison. The law does not differentiate between Ukrainian and foreign reporters.

Ukraine says that to defeat Russia, the West must provide fighter jets and not just missiles and other military equipment. A proposal to transfer Polish planes to Ukraine via the United States was scrapped amid NATO concerns about being drawn into direct fighting.

In his pointed remarks, Zelenskyy accused Western governments of being “afraid to prevent this tragedy. Afraid to simply make a decision.”

His plea was echoed Sunday by a priest in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/explosions-in-lviv-ukraine-russia-war-d19574a99afeb4bf964be7c3276c084c">western city of Lviv,&nbsp;</a>which was struck by rockets a day earlier. The aerial assault illustrated that Moscow, despite assertions that it intends to shift the war eastward, is willing to strike anywhere in Ukraine.

“When diplomacy doesn’t work, we need military support,” said the Rev. Yuri Vaskiv, who said fearful parishioners were staying away from his Greek Catholic church.

On the road to Kyiv, residents of a village combed through the wreckage of Russia’s ongoing attacks. Locals in Byshiv, about 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Kyiv. walked through buildings torn open and destroyed by shelling to salvage what they could, including books, shelving and framed pictures. .

Standing in what used to be a kindergarten classroom, teacher Svetlana Grybovska said too many children have fallen victim.

“It’s not right” Grybovska told British broadcaster Sky News. “Children are not guilty of anything.”

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov confirmed Russia used air-launched cruise missiles to hit a fuel depot and a defense plant in Lyiv, about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from the Polish border. He said another strike with sea-launched missiles destroyed a depot in Plesetske just west of Kyiv, where Ukraine stored air defense missiles.

On Sunday night, a rocket attack hit an oil base in the far northwestern region of Volyn, whose capital, Lutsk, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Lviv.

A chemical smell lingered in Lyiv on Sunday as firefighters trained hoses on flames and black smoke poured from oil storage tanks hit in the attack.

Russia’s back-to-back airstrikes shook the city that has become a haven for an estimated 200,000 people who have fled bombarded towns and cities. Lviv, which has largely been spared bombardment, also has been a waystation for most of the 3.8 million refugees who have left Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24.

In a dim, crowded bomb shelter under an apartment block near the first blast site, Olana Ukrainets, a 34-year-old information technology professional, said she couldn’t believe she had to hide again after fleeing from the northeastern city of Kharkiv, one of the most bombarded cities.

“We were on one side of the street and saw it on the other side,” she said. “We saw fire. I said to my friend, ‘What’s this?’ Then we heard the sound of an explosion and glass breaking.”

Also in Kharkiv, Ukrainian firefighters used axes and chainsaws to dig through concrete and other debris Sunday searching for victims of a Russian military strike on the regional administration building. One body was found Saturday, a firefighter said. At least six people died in the March 1 attack — the first time Russian forces hit the center of Kharkiv, once home to 1.5 million people.

In his video address, Zelenskyy angrily warned Moscow that it was sowing a deep hatred for Russia among Ukrainians.

“You are doing everything so that our people themselves leave the Russian language, because the Russian language will now be associated only with you, with your explosions and murders, your crimes,” Zelenskyy said.

Along with the millions of people who have fled Ukraine, the invasion has driven more than 10 million people from their homes, almost one-quarter of Ukraine’s population. Thousands of civilians are believed to have been killed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648213777649.png" alt="Britain’s Defense Ministry said Russia’s troops are trying to encircle Ukrainian forces facing the two separatist-held areas in the country’s east. That would cut the bulk of Ukraine’s military off from the rest of the country.-Photo courtesy NATO" />
 <figcaption>Britain’s Defense Ministry said Russia’s troops are trying to encircle Ukrainian forces facing the two separatist-held areas in the country’s east. That would cut the bulk of Ukraine’s military off from the rest of the country.-Photo courtesy NATO</figcaption>
 </figure>LVIV, Ukraine (AP) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused the West of cowardice Sunday while another top official said Russia was trying to split the nation in two, like North and South Korea.Zelenskyy made an exasperated plea for fighter jets and tanks to sustain a defense as his country continues battling Russia’s invading troops. Russia now says its main focus is on taking control of the eastern Donbas region, an apparent pullback from its earlier, more expansive goals, but one which is raising fears of a divided Ukraine.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1647393225414.png" alt="Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy-photo courtesy Ukraine Presidential press office" />
 <figcaption>Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy-photo courtesy Ukraine Presidential press office</figcaption>
 </figure>Speaking after&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-biden-migration-world-war-ii-warsaw-652da1c2ab1c88de3032241089bfa516">U.S. President Joe Biden</a>&nbsp;said in a lacerating speech that Russian President Vladimir Putin could not stay in power —&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-putin-ketanji-brown-jackson-state-of-the-union-address-2022-midterm-elections-46757d4b4b7d4297245d7e6de8f2b290">words the White House immediately sought to downplay&nbsp;</a>— Zelenskyy lashed out at the West’s “ping-pong about who and how should hand over jets” and other weapons while Russian missile attacks kill and trap civilians.“I’ve talked&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-europe-edf7240a9d990e7e3e32f82ca351dede">to the defenders of Mariupol&nbsp;</a>today. I’m in constant contact with them. Their determination, heroism and firmness are astonishing,” Zelenskyy said in a video address, referring to the besieged southern city that has suffered some of the war’s greatest deprivations and horrors. “If only those who have been thinking for 31 days on how to hand over dozens of jets and tanks had 1% of their courage.”Zelenskyy also told independent Russian journalists Sunday that his government would consider declaring neutrality and offering security guarantees to Russia, repeating earlier statements. That would include keeping Ukraine nuclear-free, he said.He told the reporters that the issue of neutrality – and agreeing to stay out of NATO – should be put to Ukrainian voters in a referendum after Russian troops withdraw. He said a vote could take place within a few months of the troops leaving.Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has stalled in many areas. Its aim to quickly encircle the capital, Kyiv, and force its surrender has faltered against staunch Ukrainian resistance — bolstered by weapons from the U.S. and other Western allies.Britain’s Defense Ministry said Russia’s troops are trying to encircle Ukrainian forces facing the two separatist-held areas in the country’s east. That would cut the bulk of Ukraine’s military off from the rest of the country.Moscow claims its focus is on wresting the entire eastern Donbas region, which has been partially controlled by Russia-backed separatists since 2014. A high-ranking Russian military official on Friday said that troops were being redirected to the east from other parts of the country.Russia has supported the separatist rebels in Luhansk and neighboring Donetsk since the insurgency erupted there shortly after Moscow annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine. In talks with Ukraine, Moscow has demanded Kyiv acknowledge the independence of Donetsk and Luhansk.Kyrylo Budanov, the head of Ukrainian military intelligence, accused Russia of seeking to split Ukraine in two, making the comparison to North and South Korea.“The occupiers will try to pull the occupied territories into a single quasi-state structure and pit it against independent Ukraine,” Budanov said in a statement released by the Defense Ministry. He predicted that guerrilla warfare by Ukrainians would derail such plans.A Ukrainian delegate in talks with Russia on ending the war, Davyd Arakhamia, said in a Facebook post the countries would meet in Turkey beginning Monday. However, the Russians then announced the talks would start Tuesday. The sides have met previously with no deal reached.Ukraine’s priorities at the Ukrainian-Russian talks in Turkey this week will be “sovereignty and territorial integrity,” Zelenskyy told his nation Sunday in his nightly address.“We are looking for peace, really, without delay,” he said. “There is an opportunity and a need for a face-to-face meeting in Turkey.”Zelenskyy also signed a law Sunday that bans reporting on troop and equipment movements that haven’t been announced or approved by the military. Journalists who violate the law could face three to eight years in prison. The law does not differentiate between Ukrainian and foreign reporters.Ukraine says that to defeat Russia, the West must provide fighter jets and not just missiles and other military equipment. A proposal to transfer Polish planes to Ukraine via the United States was scrapped amid NATO concerns about being drawn into direct fighting.In his pointed remarks, Zelenskyy accused Western governments of being “afraid to prevent this tragedy. Afraid to simply make a decision.”His plea was echoed Sunday by a priest in the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/explosions-in-lviv-ukraine-russia-war-d19574a99afeb4bf964be7c3276c084c">western city of Lviv,&nbsp;</a>which was struck by rockets a day earlier. The aerial assault illustrated that Moscow, despite assertions that it intends to shift the war eastward, is willing to strike anywhere in Ukraine.“When diplomacy doesn’t work, we need military support,” said the Rev. Yuri Vaskiv, who said fearful parishioners were staying away from his Greek Catholic church.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648213754283.png" alt="Russia’s back-to-back airstrikes shook the city that has become a haven for an estimated 200,000 people who have fled bombarded towns and cities.-photo courtesy NATO" />
 <figcaption>Russia’s back-to-back airstrikes shook the city that has become a haven for an estimated 200,000 people who have fled bombarded towns and cities.-photo courtesy NATO</figcaption>
 </figure>On the road to Kyiv, residents of a village combed through the wreckage of Russia’s ongoing attacks. Locals in Byshiv, about 22 miles (35 kilometers) from Kyiv. walked through buildings torn open and destroyed by shelling to salvage what they could, including books, shelving and framed pictures. .Standing in what used to be a kindergarten classroom, teacher Svetlana Grybovska said too many children have fallen victim.“It’s not right” Grybovska told British broadcaster Sky News. “Children are not guilty of anything.”Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov confirmed Russia used air-launched cruise missiles to hit a fuel depot and a defense plant in Lyiv, about 45 miles (75 kilometers) from the Polish border. He said another strike with sea-launched missiles destroyed a depot in Plesetske just west of Kyiv, where Ukraine stored air defense missiles.On Sunday night, a rocket attack hit an oil base in the far northwestern region of Volyn, whose capital, Lutsk, about 120 kilometers (75 miles) north of Lviv.A chemical smell lingered in Lyiv on Sunday as firefighters trained hoses on flames and black smoke poured from oil storage tanks hit in the attack.Russia’s back-to-back airstrikes shook the city that has become a haven for an estimated 200,000 people who have fled bombarded towns and cities. Lviv, which has largely been spared bombardment, also has been a waystation for most of the 3.8 million refugees who have left Ukraine since Russia invaded on Feb. 24.In a dim, crowded bomb shelter under an apartment block near the first blast site, Olana Ukrainets, a 34-year-old information technology professional, said she couldn’t believe she had to hide again after fleeing from the northeastern city of Kharkiv, one of the most bombarded cities.“We were on one side of the street and saw it on the other side,” she said. “We saw fire. I said to my friend, ‘What’s this?’ Then we heard the sound of an explosion and glass breaking.”Also in Kharkiv, Ukrainian firefighters used axes and chainsaws to dig through concrete and other debris Sunday searching for victims of a Russian military strike on the regional administration building. One body was found Saturday, a firefighter said. At least six people died in the March 1 attack — the first time Russian forces hit the center of Kharkiv, once home to 1.5 million people.In his video address, Zelenskyy angrily warned Moscow that it was sowing a deep hatred for Russia among Ukrainians.“You are doing everything so that our people themselves leave the Russian language, because the Russian language will now be associated only with you, with your explosions and murders, your crimes,” Zelenskyy said.Along with the millions of people who have fled Ukraine, the invasion has driven more than 10 million people from their homes, almost one-quarter of Ukraine’s population. Thousands of civilians are believed to have been killed.___

Ukrainian President accused the west of cowardice

By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

Dance instructors from across the state met with state officials in Hays last week to talk about statewide promotion of dance and training for dance instructors.

Mina Estrada, conference facilitator, bemoaned dance tends to be the low rung on the arts ladder in terms of funding behind visual arts and theater.

There are no statewide education credentials for dance teachers, and there are a few dance programs in the state associated with the K-12 public school programs. Even where there are, however, those teachers are working under substitute licenses. 

The participants said any credentials or education programs would need to take into account that dance education in rural areas is different that in metro areas.

Studios in rural areas often offer some type of combination classes in which multiple styles are taught. In metro areas, students can choose classes focusing on specific dance styles.

Studio owners also said location in rural areas can limit both the number of students a studio might be able to draw, as well as qualified dance instructors.

Tim Gregory, owner of a ballroom dance studio in Manhattan, said he has struggled to find space large enough for his classes that he can afford. He has a small studio at his home. His space, however, limits the number of students he can have at any one time.

Kansas colleges have dance programs, but dance scholarships are scarce compared to sports scholarships.

"With dance, you can go teach,"&nbsp; one of the participants said. "If you graduate college and you play basketball, there's not really jobs. You could be a coach. [Dancers] can go teach at a studio a lot easier than if you build up a sports career.

"With dance, you've really learned a skill. I work hard to ensure my dancers have a skill they can carry on."

The dance representatives extolled the benefits of dance, not only as a means of artistic expression, but as a lifelong passion.

Gregory said his life was changed when he attended a swing class with a friend. He intended to just watch, but the class need another person because they had an odd number of dancers.

"To me, if you really&nbsp; catch that dance bug, it changes your life. It changes your perspective in life," he said.

Students as young as preschool are learning manners, sharing and basic math. Children through adults learn social skills, build confidence and learn an appreciation for music.

Chris Hernandez, who teaches traditional Mexican dance in Topeka, said his students learn about the cultures that spawned the dances. He said dance also helps teach youth discipline.

One of the younger participants said she didn't start taking dance until she was in the eighth grade because her parents couldn't afford the lessons. She said she wished there was more financial support of studios so they could offer scholarships.

The conference participants also expressed concern about the lack of music education in K-12 schools. A lack of exposure to music in public education means prospective dancers come to them unprepared to work with music, participants said.

The instructors said they want to maintain creative freedom and freedom from regulations, but more education opportunities would be welcome.

Several of the dance instructors discussed the importance on including kinesiology and safety training into dance curriculum.

Mina Estrada, conference facilitator, said as a girl, she and other dance students practiced jump splits on concrete floors. That has had repercussions on her body as an adult.

The team had no other place to practice, and she believed her instructor was good-intentioned but had no idea of the damage that was being caused.

Sarah Burkhead of Danceography in Great Bend has a degree in kinseology. She said bringing in strength training, as well as educating students on the muscles in their bodies, is important.

 Many said they wanted more education opportunities for themselves and their students, but said a lack of funding and cooperation between studios made that difficult.

The group discussed the possibility of having a statewide conference at which education opportunities could be provided.

The National Dance Education Organization already has curriculum for classes. If Kansas had a state affiliate, they could draw on that agency for curriculum for classes that have already been developed.

Individual instructors also discussed sharing talent on a more local level. Some instructors specialize in ballet or jazz, but they might have students who are interested in hip-hop classes. They expressed interest in bringing in instructors from other studios to offer more diversity in class schedules.

Becky Schaeffer, owner of Becky's School of Dance in Hays, said she would like events to be local or regional, which she said would help bring more exposure to local studios.

Burkhead said paying for a conference and the associated travel would be a financial burden and she doubted she would be able to attend.

She said she makes less than people who work at McDonald's, and&nbsp; suggested offering scholarships for instructors for conferences.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648152566251.jpg" alt="Photo courtesy of Pixabay " />
 <figcaption>Photo courtesy of Pixabay </figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostDance instructors from across the state met with state officials in Hays last week to talk about statewide promotion of dance and training for dance instructors.Mina Estrada, conference facilitator, bemoaned dance tends to be the low rung on the arts ladder in terms of funding behind visual arts and theater.There are no statewide education credentials for dance teachers, and there are a few dance programs in the state associated with the K-12 public school programs. Even where there are, however, those teachers are working under substitute licenses. The participants said any credentials or education programs would need to take into account that dance education in rural areas is different that in metro areas.Studios in rural areas often offer some type of combination classes in which multiple styles are taught. In metro areas, students can choose classes focusing on specific dance styles.Studio owners also said location in rural areas can limit both the number of students a studio might be able to draw, as well as qualified dance instructors.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648245907039.jpeg" alt="Dance instructors from across the state met in Hays last week to discuss dance education and challenges the dance industry faces in the state. Courtesy photo " />
 <figcaption>Dance instructors from across the state met in Hays last week to discuss dance education and challenges the dance industry faces in the state. Courtesy photo </figcaption>
 </figure>Tim Gregory, owner of a ballroom dance studio in Manhattan, said he has struggled to find space large enough for his classes that he can afford. He has a small studio at his home. His space, however, limits the number of students he can have at any one time.Kansas colleges have dance programs, but dance scholarships are scarce compared to sports scholarships."With dance, you can go teach,"&nbsp; one of the participants said. "If you graduate college and you play basketball, there's not really jobs. You could be a coach. [Dancers] can go teach at a studio a lot easier than if you build up a sports career."With dance, you've really learned a skill. I work hard to ensure my dancers have a skill they can carry on."The dance representatives extolled the benefits of dance, not only as a means of artistic expression, but as a lifelong passion.Gregory said his life was changed when he attended a swing class with a friend. He intended to just watch, but the class need another person because they had an odd number of dancers.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648246219902.jpeg" alt="Dance instructors said during a conference in Hays last week funding is a challenge to expanding dance offerings in Kansas. Courtesy photo. " />
 <figcaption>Dance instructors said during a conference in Hays last week funding is a challenge to expanding dance offerings in Kansas. Courtesy photo. </figcaption>
 </figure>"To me, if you really&nbsp; catch that dance bug, it changes your life. It changes your perspective in life," he said. Students as young as preschool are learning manners, sharing and basic math. Children through adults learn social skills, build confidence and learn an appreciation for music.Chris Hernandez, who teaches traditional Mexican dance in Topeka, said his students learn about the cultures that spawned the dances. He said dance also helps teach youth discipline.One of the younger participants said she didn't start taking dance until she was in the eighth grade because her parents couldn't afford the lessons. She said she wished there was more financial support of studios so they could offer scholarships.The conference participants also expressed concern about the lack of music education in K-12 schools. A lack of exposure to music in public education means prospective dancers come to them unprepared to work with music, participants said. The instructors said they want to maintain creative freedom and freedom from regulations, but more education opportunities would be welcome.Several of the dance instructors discussed the importance on including kinesiology and safety training into dance curriculum.Mina Estrada, conference facilitator, said as a girl, she and other dance students practiced jump splits on concrete floors. That has had repercussions on her body as an adult.The team had no other place to practice, and she believed her instructor was good-intentioned but had no idea of the damage that was being caused.Sarah Burkhead of Danceography in Great Bend has a degree in kinseology. She said bringing in strength training, as well as educating students on the muscles in their bodies, is important. Many said they wanted more education opportunities for themselves and their students, but said a lack of funding and cooperation between studios made that difficult.The group discussed the possibility of having a statewide conference at which education opportunities could be provided.The National Dance Education Organization already has curriculum for classes. If Kansas had a state affiliate, they could draw on that agency for curriculum for classes that have already been developed. Individual instructors also discussed sharing talent on a more local level. Some instructors specialize in ballet or jazz, but they might have students who are interested in hip-hop classes. They expressed interest in bringing in instructors from other studios to offer more diversity in class schedules. Becky Schaeffer, owner of Becky's School of Dance in Hays, said she would like events to be local or regional, which she said would help bring more exposure to local studios.Burkhead said paying for a conference and the associated travel would be a financial burden and she doubted she would be able to attend.She said she makes less than people who work at McDonald's, and&nbsp; suggested offering scholarships for instructors for conferences.

Dance conference in NW Kan. explores expanded education opportunities

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded retirees who
 turned 72 during the last half of 2021 that, in most cases, Friday, 
April 1, 2022, is the last day to begin receiving payments from 
Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), 401(k)s and similar workplace
 retirement plans.

The payments, called <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-required-minimum-distributions-rmds">required minimum distributions (RMDs)</a>,
 are normally made by the end of the year. But anyone who reached age 72
 after June 30, 2021, is covered by a special rule that allows IRA 
account owners and participants in workplace retirement plans to wait 
until as late as April 1, 2022, to take their first RMD. In other words,
 in general, the special April 1 rule applies to IRA owners and other 
participants in these plans who were born after June 30, 1949.

The April 1 RMD deadline only applies to the required distribution 
for the first year. For all later years, the RMD must be made by 
December 31.

This means that taxpayers who turned 72 after June 30, 2021, and 
receive their first required distribution (for 2021) in 2022 on or 
before April 1, must receive their second RMD (for 2022) by December 31,
 2022. Even though the first distribution is actually the required 2021 
distribution, it's taxable in 2022 and reported on the 2022 tax return -
 along with the regular 2022 distribution.

These required distribution rules apply to owners of traditional, SEP
 and SIMPLE IRAs while the original owner is alive. They also apply to 
participants in various workplace retirement plans, including 401(k), 
403(b) and 457(b) plans. RMDs don't apply to Roth IRAs.

An IRA trustee must either report the amount of the RMD to the IRA 
owner or offer to calculate it. Often, the trustee shows the RMD amount 
on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-5498">Form 5498</a>
 in Box 12b. For a 2021 RMD, required by April 1, 2022, the RMD amount 
is shown on the 2020 Form 5498, normally issued to the owner during the 
first part of 2021.

Though the April 1 deadline is mandatory for all owners of 
traditional IRAs and most participants in workplace retirement plans, 
some people with workplace plans can wait longer to receive their RMD.

Most participants who are still working for that employer can wait 
until April 1 of the year after they retire to start receiving these 
distributions, if their workplace plan allows. This RMD exception does 
not apply to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-required-minimum-distributions">5% owners</a>
 of the business sponsoring the retirement plan or to participants in 
SEP and SIMPLE IRA plans. See Tax on Excess Accumulation in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-575">Publication 575</a> for details.

Employees of public schools and certain tax-exempt organizations with
 403(b) plan accruals before 1987 should check with their employer, plan
 administrator or provider to see how to treat these accruals.

IRS online tools and publications can help

Many answers to questions about RMDs can be found at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-required-minimum-distributions">RMD FAQs</a>
 on IRS.gov. Most taxpayers use Table III (Uniform Lifetime) to figure 
their RMD. Married taxpayers whose spouse is more than 10 years younger 
and is their only beneficiary use Table II.

Because this and other life expectancy tables were updated for 2022, 
recipients need to use a different version of this table to figure their
 2021 RMD, compared to their 2022 RMD. The required withdrawals in 2022 
and future years will generally be smaller.

For a 2021 RMD (due April 1, 2022), use the life expectancy tables in Appendix B of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/p590b--2020.pdf">Pub. 590-B</a>&nbsp;PDF
 used for preparing 2020 returns. As shown in Table III, the RMD for a 
person age 72 in 2021 will normally be based on a distribution period of
 25.6 years. Divide the December 31, 2020, balance by 25.6 to get the 
RMD for 2021.

For a 2022 RMD (due December 31, 2022), use the revised life expectancy tables in Appendix B of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/p590b--2021.pdf">Pub. 590-B</a>&nbsp;PDF
 used for preparing 2021 returns. As shown in the revised Table III, the
 RMD for a person age 72 in 2022 will normally be based on a 
distribution period of 27.4 years. Divide the December 31, 2021, balance
 by 27.4 to get the RMD for 2022.

Pub. 590-B has worksheets, examples and other information that can 
help anyone figure their RMD. Visit IRS.gov for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service today reminded retirees who
 turned 72 during the last half of 2021 that, in most cases, Friday, 
April 1, 2022, is the last day to begin receiving payments from 
Individual Retirement Arrangements (IRAs), 401(k)s and similar workplace
 retirement plans.The payments, called <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/plan-participant-employee/retirement-topics-required-minimum-distributions-rmds">required minimum distributions (RMDs)</a>,
 are normally made by the end of the year. But anyone who reached age 72
 after June 30, 2021, is covered by a special rule that allows IRA 
account owners and participants in workplace retirement plans to wait 
until as late as April 1, 2022, to take their first RMD. In other words,
 in general, the special April 1 rule applies to IRA owners and other 
participants in these plans who were born after June 30, 1949.<h2>Two payments in the same year</h2>The April 1 RMD deadline only applies to the required distribution 
for the first year. For all later years, the RMD must be made by 
December 31.This means that taxpayers who turned 72 after June 30, 2021, and 
receive their first required distribution (for 2021) in 2022 on or 
before April 1, must receive their second RMD (for 2022) by December 31,
 2022. Even though the first distribution is actually the required 2021 
distribution, it's taxable in 2022 and reported on the 2022 tax return -
 along with the regular 2022 distribution.<h2>Types of retirement plans requiring RMDs</h2>These required distribution rules apply to owners of traditional, SEP
 and SIMPLE IRAs while the original owner is alive. They also apply to 
participants in various workplace retirement plans, including 401(k), 
403(b) and 457(b) plans. RMDs don't apply to Roth IRAs.An IRA trustee must either report the amount of the RMD to the IRA 
owner or offer to calculate it. Often, the trustee shows the RMD amount 
on <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-5498">Form 5498</a>
 in Box 12b. For a 2021 RMD, required by April 1, 2022, the RMD amount 
is shown on the 2020 Form 5498, normally issued to the owner during the 
first part of 2021.<h2>Some can delay RMDs</h2>Though the April 1 deadline is mandatory for all owners of 
traditional IRAs and most participants in workplace retirement plans, 
some people with workplace plans can wait longer to receive their RMD.Most participants who are still working for that employer can wait 
until April 1 of the year after they retire to start receiving these 
distributions, if their workplace plan allows. This RMD exception does 
not apply to <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-required-minimum-distributions">5% owners</a>
 of the business sponsoring the retirement plan or to participants in 
SEP and SIMPLE IRA plans. See Tax on Excess Accumulation in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-575">Publication 575</a> for details.Employees of public schools and certain tax-exempt organizations with
 403(b) plan accruals before 1987 should check with their employer, plan
 administrator or provider to see how to treat these accruals.<h2>IRS online tools and publications can help</h2>Many answers to questions about RMDs can be found at <a href="https://www.irs.gov/retirement-plans/retirement-plans-faqs-regarding-required-minimum-distributions">RMD FAQs</a>
 on IRS.gov. Most taxpayers use Table III (Uniform Lifetime) to figure 
their RMD. Married taxpayers whose spouse is more than 10 years younger 
and is their only beneficiary use Table II.Because this and other life expectancy tables were updated for 2022, 
recipients need to use a different version of this table to figure their
 2021 RMD, compared to their 2022 RMD. The required withdrawals in 2022 
and future years will generally be smaller.For a 2021 RMD (due April 1, 2022), use the life expectancy tables in Appendix B of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/p590b--2020.pdf">Pub. 590-B</a>&nbsp;PDF
 used for preparing 2020 returns. As shown in Table III, the RMD for a 
person age 72 in 2021 will normally be based on a distribution period of
 25.6 years. Divide the December 31, 2020, balance by 25.6 to get the 
RMD for 2021.For a 2022 RMD (due December 31, 2022), use the revised life expectancy tables in Appendix B of the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-prior/p590b--2021.pdf">Pub. 590-B</a>&nbsp;PDF
 used for preparing 2021 returns. As shown in the revised Table III, the
 RMD for a person age 72 in 2022 will normally be based on a 
distribution period of 27.4 years. Divide the December 31, 2021, balance
 by 27.4 to get the RMD for 2022.Pub. 590-B has worksheets, examples and other information that can 
help anyone figure their RMD. Visit IRS.gov for more information.

IRS: April 1 is last day to start taking money out of IRAs, 401(k)s

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — A 65-year-old Kansas City truck driver has been arrested in connection with the crash that killed an assistant fire chief while he was working an accident scene.

The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article259835735.html">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Missouri Highway Patrol arrested Kevin Lee Brunson on Friday in Clay County. According to court documents, he was indicted on a charge of first-degree involuntary manslaughter earlier this month.

Boone County assistant fire chief Bryant Gladney died in an accident that occurred early on Dec. 22 on Interstate 70 near Columbia, as he was working at the scene of a previous accident. Authorities say a tractor-trailer traveling at a high rate of speed struck Gladney’s vehicle, then struck an ambulance and the truck involved in the earlier crash.

Gladney was extricated from his vehicle and taken to a hospital, where he died.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2021/12/1640189981402.png" alt="Boone County assistant fire chief Bryant Gladney died in an accident that occurred early on Dec. 22 on Interstate 70-photo courtesy KOMU TV" />
 <figcaption>Boone County assistant fire chief Bryant Gladney died in an accident that occurred early on Dec. 22 on Interstate 70-photo courtesy KOMU TV</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — A 65-year-old Kansas City truck driver has been arrested in connection with the crash that killed an assistant fire chief while he was working an accident scene.The Kansas City Star&nbsp;<a href="https://www.kansascity.com/article259835735.html">reports&nbsp;</a>that the Missouri Highway Patrol arrested Kevin Lee Brunson on Friday in Clay County. According to court documents, he was indicted on a charge of first-degree involuntary manslaughter earlier this month.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648428948452.png" alt="Brunson photo Boone Co." />
 <figcaption>Brunson photo Boone Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>Boone County assistant fire chief Bryant Gladney died in an accident that occurred early on Dec. 22 on Interstate 70 near Columbia, as he was working at the scene of a previous accident. Authorities say a tractor-trailer traveling at a high rate of speed struck Gladney’s vehicle, then struck an ambulance and the truck involved in the earlier crash.Gladney was extricated from his vehicle and taken to a hospital, where he died.

KC truck driver arrested in crash that killed fire official

ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A rising middle school football player in Missouri, only 14 but already 6 feet, 5 inches tall and well over 300 pounds, Tyre Sampson fell to his death from a towering Florida amusement ride. Lawyers for his family want to know if negligence about his size, or other factors, played a role.

“This young man, he was athletic and he was big. He had no way of knowing,” said Bob Hilliard, a Texas&nbsp;<a href="https://hmglawfirm.com/robert-c-hilliard/">attorney&nbsp;</a>who represents Tyre's mother, Nekia Dodd, in an interview Saturday. “This is going to be an issue of a lack of supervision and lack of training. A straight-up negligence case."

Investigators on Saturday continued to examine what happened Thursday night when Sampson dropped out of his seat from a 430-foot, free-fall&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/">amusement park ride</a>&nbsp;that is taller than the Statue of Liberty along a busy street in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district not far from Disney World.

The ride takes patrons up to that height, tilts so they face the ground for a moment or two, and then plummets toward the ground at speeds of 75 mph (about 121 kph) or more.

The well-known civil rights attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://bencrump.com/">Ben Crump</a>, who is working with Hilliard and represents Tyre's father, Yarnell Sampson, said the family is “shocked and heartbroken at the loss of their son.”

“This young man was the kind of son everyone hopes for — an honor roll student, an aspiring athlete, and a kind-hearted person who cared about others,” Crump said in a statement Saturday.

The Orange County Sheriff's Office and the state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which regulates amusement rides in Florida at all but the major theme parks, declined comment Saturday other than to say the investigation is ongoing.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/media/">Icon Park</a>&nbsp;attraction said in a statement it is fully cooperating with investigators and that the Orlando FreeFall ride will be closed indefinitely. It opened late last year on International Drive, a major tourist mecca.

“We are heartbroken with the incident that took the life of one of our guests. We extend our condolences and deepest sympathy to his family and friends," said a statement from the SlingShot Group, which operates the ride.

Tyre was a giant for his age, already the size of an NFL offensive lineman. His family says he aspired to play pro football, like many kids with athletic ability who see a way to buy their mother a house and lift everyone in the family to a new level.

“That was his dream, and he was on his way,” Wendy Wooten, his stepmother, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/st-louis-county-teen-who-fell-to-his-death-at-florida-amusement-ride-dreamed-of/article_b86b02e4-7415-5365-b7d0-73949c837819.html">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>. “He had so many scouts looking at him. He was going to be a great football player.”

Tyre was part of a group called the St. Louis Bad Boyz football club who were in Orlando for a weeklong training camp, the Post-Dispatch reported. The group had chaperones and, by all accounts, were doing what millions do every year during spring break in Orlando: enjoying the theme parks and rides.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1648251123999.png" alt="Investigators on Saturday continued to examine what happened Thursday night when Sampson dropped out of his seat from a 430-foot, free-fall&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/">amusement park ride</a>&nbsp;that is taller than the Statue of Liberty along a busy street in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district not far from Disney World-photo courtesy WFTV" />
 <figcaption>Investigators on Saturday continued to examine what happened Thursday night when Sampson dropped out of his seat from a 430-foot, free-fall&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/">amusement park ride</a>&nbsp;that is taller than the Statue of Liberty along a busy street in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district not far from Disney World-photo courtesy WFTV</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. (AP) — A rising middle school football player in Missouri, only 14 but already 6 feet, 5 inches tall and well over 300 pounds, Tyre Sampson fell to his death from a towering Florida amusement ride. Lawyers for his family want to know if negligence about his size, or other factors, played a role.“This young man, he was athletic and he was big. He had no way of knowing,” said Bob Hilliard, a Texas&nbsp;<a href="https://hmglawfirm.com/robert-c-hilliard/">attorney&nbsp;</a>who represents Tyre's mother, Nekia Dodd, in an interview Saturday. “This is going to be an issue of a lack of supervision and lack of training. A straight-up negligence case."Investigators on Saturday continued to examine what happened Thursday night when Sampson dropped out of his seat from a 430-foot, free-fall&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/">amusement park ride</a>&nbsp;that is taller than the Statue of Liberty along a busy street in the heart of Orlando’s tourist district not far from Disney World.The ride takes patrons up to that height, tilts so they face the ground for a moment or two, and then plummets toward the ground at speeds of 75 mph (about 121 kph) or more.The well-known civil rights attorney&nbsp;<a href="https://bencrump.com/">Ben Crump</a>, who is working with Hilliard and represents Tyre's father, Yarnell Sampson, said the family is “shocked and heartbroken at the loss of their son.”“This young man was the kind of son everyone hopes for — an honor roll student, an aspiring athlete, and a kind-hearted person who cared about others,” Crump said in a statement Saturday.The Orange County Sheriff's Office and the state Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, which regulates amusement rides in Florida at all but the major theme parks, declined comment Saturday other than to say the investigation is ongoing.The&nbsp;<a href="https://iconparkorlando.com/media/">Icon Park</a>&nbsp;attraction said in a statement it is fully cooperating with investigators and that the Orlando FreeFall ride will be closed indefinitely. It opened late last year on International Drive, a major tourist mecca.“We are heartbroken with the incident that took the life of one of our guests. We extend our condolences and deepest sympathy to his family and friends," said a statement from the SlingShot Group, which operates the ride.Tyre was a giant for his age, already the size of an NFL offensive lineman. His family says he aspired to play pro football, like many kids with athletic ability who see a way to buy their mother a house and lift everyone in the family to a new level.“That was his dream, and he was on his way,” Wendy Wooten, his stepmother, told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.stltoday.com/news/local/crime-and-courts/st-louis-county-teen-who-fell-to-his-death-at-florida-amusement-ride-dreamed-of/article_b86b02e4-7415-5365-b7d0-73949c837819.html">St. Louis Post-Dispatch</a>. “He had so many scouts looking at him. He was going to be a great football player.”Tyre was part of a group called the St. Louis Bad Boyz football club who were in Orlando for a weeklong training camp, the Post-Dispatch reported. The group had chaperones and, by all accounts, were doing what millions do every year during spring break in Orlando: enjoying the theme parks and rides.He was a student at the City Garden Montessori School in St. Louis. The school sent a letter to parents Friday saying counseling would be available for students on Monday.“Tyre has been a City Garden student for many years,” the school said in a statement from its principal and CEO. “We will miss him tremendously and our hearts go out to his family and friends during this extremely difficult time.”No criminal charges have been filed but a negligence or wrongful death lawsuit, or both, seem likely. Crump said boy's parents “intend to get answers for Tyre's grieving family.”“A fun theme park visit with his football team should not have ended in tragedy,” Crump said.