MANHATTAN —Effective March 2, Kansas State University will strongly encourage — but not require — that everyone wear masks while indoors on university property, according to a statement from the university.

&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/guidance/health/face-covering.html">Read the university's updated mask guidance</a>.

The university's updated face mask guidance is based on the newest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance</a>&nbsp;for determining face mask requirements.

The CDC is changing the way it measures community levels of disease. Rather than focusing solely on COVID-19 cases, the CDC is now including additional metrics, such as hospital beds and hospital admissions. While face masks are now optional for all individuals on K-State campuses and at university events, mask requirements do remain in effect for university shuttles because of United States Department of Transportation policy.

The CDC is using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html">COVID-19 Community Levels</a>&nbsp;to help communities determine what prevention steps are needed. All three Kansas State University campus host counties — Riley County, Saline County and Johnson County — are at medium risk levels, where face masks are not required. If COVID-19 conditions change in the future, the university may return to mitigation measures, including masking, physical distancing and other measures.

According to the CDC guidance, people may choose to mask at any time, and high-risk individuals should consult with their health care providers, as should those who live with or care for higher risk people. Individuals who had exposure to someone with COVID-19 should also wear a mask. People with symptoms or a positive test should stay home.&nbsp;

Vaccination against COVID-19 is an effective way for individuals to support their own health and the health and wellness of the K-State community and our host communities. There are multiple ways for K-State students, faculty and staff to find a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/how-to-find/">COVID-19 vaccine or booster.</a>

Signage and the university COVID-19 website will be updated soon. Read more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/">vaccine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;university guidance on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">COVID-19 website</a>.

MANHATTAN —Effective March 2, Kansas State University will strongly encourage — but not require — that everyone wear masks while indoors on university property, according to a statement from the university.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/guidance/health/face-covering.html">Read the university's updated mask guidance</a>. The university's updated face mask guidance is based on the newest&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/prevent-getting-sick/about-face-coverings.html">Centers for Disease Control and Prevention guidance</a>&nbsp;for determining face mask requirements.The CDC is changing the way it measures community levels of disease. Rather than focusing solely on COVID-19 cases, the CDC is now including additional metrics, such as hospital beds and hospital admissions. While face masks are now optional for all individuals on K-State campuses and at university events, mask requirements do remain in effect for university shuttles because of United States Department of Transportation policy.The CDC is using&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/covid-by-county.html">COVID-19 Community Levels</a>&nbsp;to help communities determine what prevention steps are needed. All three Kansas State University campus host counties — Riley County, Saline County and Johnson County — are at medium risk levels, where face masks are not required. If COVID-19 conditions change in the future, the university may return to mitigation measures, including masking, physical distancing and other measures.According to the CDC guidance, people may choose to mask at any time, and high-risk individuals should consult with their health care providers, as should those who live with or care for higher risk people. Individuals who had exposure to someone with COVID-19 should also wear a mask. People with symptoms or a positive test should stay home.&nbsp;Vaccination against COVID-19 is an effective way for individuals to support their own health and the health and wellness of the K-State community and our host communities. There are multiple ways for K-State students, faculty and staff to find a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/how-to-find/">COVID-19 vaccine or booster.</a>Signage and the university COVID-19 website will be updated soon. Read more about the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/vaccine/">vaccine</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;university guidance on the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.k-state.edu/covid-19/">COVID-19 website</a>.

K-State removes mask requirement on all campuses, effective March 2

Ibendahl suggests farmers buy diesel in summer to save on costs&nbsp;

By SHELBY VARNER K-State Research and Extension News&nbsp;

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl said the average price of gasoline and diesel the past five years gives a good indication of when to expect higher and lower prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“You can really see the seasonality the most if you look at (past) gasoline prices,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

He said gas prices are almost guaranteed to be higher during summer when people are going on vacations. On the other hand, the lowest gasoline prices will be during the winter.&nbsp;

According to Ibendahl, that trend still holds and will likely continue.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“On the diesel side, we also see some seasonality,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;&nbsp;

The seasonality of diesel has changed over the last decade or two because diesel used to be a close substitute for heating oil, which caused diesel prices to be highest in the winter.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/production-economics/energy/fuel-price-outlook-2022">recent analysis</a>, Ibendahl said the best time to buy diesel would probably be during the summer.&nbsp;

“(Now) we see more of a seasonal demand for diesel fuel in the spring and fall,” Ibendahl said. “Prices are probably 15- 20 cents higher in October and November, but the rest of the year it is probably just a little bit below average.” Higher diesel prices during those times can be a bad thing for farmers as they are trying to get the crop in or out.&nbsp; “Diesel fuel doesn’t show strong seasonality like gasoline does, but it’s still there,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;

Ibendahl said current events – such as the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine -- could push diesel and oil prices higher and result in even more price variability.&nbsp;

<h2>Ibendahl suggests farmers buy diesel in summer to save on costs&nbsp;</h2>By SHELBY VARNER K-State Research and Extension News&nbsp;MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State University farm management economist Gregg Ibendahl said the average price of gasoline and diesel the past five years gives a good indication of when to expect higher and lower prices.&nbsp;&nbsp;“You can really see the seasonality the most if you look at (past) gasoline prices,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;&nbsp;He said gas prices are almost guaranteed to be higher during summer when people are going on vacations. On the other hand, the lowest gasoline prices will be during the winter.&nbsp;According to Ibendahl, that trend still holds and will likely continue.&nbsp;&nbsp;“On the diesel side, we also see some seasonality,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;&nbsp;The seasonality of diesel has changed over the last decade or two because diesel used to be a close substitute for heating oil, which caused diesel prices to be highest in the winter.&nbsp;&nbsp;In a&nbsp;<a href="https://www.agmanager.info/production-economics/energy/fuel-price-outlook-2022">recent analysis</a>, Ibendahl said the best time to buy diesel would probably be during the summer.&nbsp;“(Now) we see more of a seasonal demand for diesel fuel in the spring and fall,” Ibendahl said. “Prices are probably 15- 20 cents higher in October and November, but the rest of the year it is probably just a little bit below average.” Higher diesel prices during those times can be a bad thing for farmers as they are trying to get the crop in or out.&nbsp; “Diesel fuel doesn’t show strong seasonality like gasoline does, but it’s still there,” Ibendahl said.&nbsp;Ibendahl said current events – such as the armed conflict between Russia and Ukraine -- could push diesel and oil prices higher and result in even more price variability.&nbsp;

K-State farm management economist tracks fuel price trends

By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/28/heres-what-you-will-hear-biden-talk-about-in-his-debut-state-of-the-union/">States Newsroom</a>

WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden’s 
first State of the Union address is set to focus significantly on the 
economy, with the former member of the U.S. Senate calling on Congress 
to pass much of the agenda stalled in the so-called Build Back Better 
bill.

<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-background-on-president-bidens-remarks-on-the-economy-during-his-first-state-of-the-union-address/">During the Tuesday night speech</a>,
 which begins at 8 p.m. Kansas time, Biden will urge lawmakers to send 
him legislation that would lower prescription drug prices, reduce how 
much families pay for child care and create a national paid family and 
medical leave program, administration officials told reporters in a 
Monday briefing.

He’ll also call on Congress to pass 
tax legislation that would require corporations and the wealthiest 
Americans to “pay their fair share,” but not raise tax rates on people 
making less than $400,000, according to senior administration 
officials.&nbsp;

The policies made up the bulk of 
Democrats’ Build Back Better legislation, but administration officials 
said Biden might not actually use the name of the proposal during his 
speech.&nbsp;

“It’s not about the name of the bill, it’s about the ideas, it’s about lowering costs for families,” one official said.&nbsp;

Biden’s speech is expected to focus on global issues as well, particularly the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;

But the part of the speech focused on
 domestic policy issues will give Biden another opportunity to try to 
rally support for initiatives that have been on ice since West Virginia 
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin III declared the $1.5 trillion climate and 
social spending package dead late last year.&nbsp;

Senior administration officials said 
Biden’s comments on the economy will focus on his “vision” for the 
country, particularly his proposals to lower costs for families while 
reducing the federal deficit.&nbsp;

To bolster U.S. economic 
competitiveness globally, Biden is expected to appeal to House and 
Senate leaders to reach a conference agreement on legislation that would
 authorize billions in additional funding for science and technology 
research to help the U.S. compete against China.&nbsp;

Biden will also call for a federal 
minimum wage of $15 an hour, a proposal that Democrats tried to enact 
last year when they drafted a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package.&nbsp;

The proposal was ultimately stripped 
from the bill after the Senate parliamentarian ruled it didn’t fit 
within the bounds of the budget process Democrats used to advance the 
package without Republican support.&nbsp;

In addition to calling on Congress to pass initiatives, Biden will focus on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-administration-announces-new-actions-to-address-the-needs-of-people-with-disabilities-and-older-adults-in-response-to-and-recovery-from-covid-19-2/">how his administration is working to implement </a>the roughly $550 billion bipartisan infrastructure law Congress approved last year.&nbsp;

Biden is expected to detail how the 
law will lead to improvements in 65,000 miles of roads; 1,500 bridges; 
15,000 new buses, ferries and subway cars; and 600 airport 
infrastructure projects.&nbsp;

He will then tell members of Congress
 how the law will allow the Environmental Protection Agency to fund more
 than 400 water projects and let the Army Corps of Engineers advance 
more than 500 projects.&nbsp;

Biden will also detail numerous <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-protecting-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities-by-improving-safety-and-quality-of-care-in-the-nations-nursing-homes/">ways his administration hopes to improve nursing home care, </a>including asking Congress to boost spending on health and safety inspections to $500 million, a nearly 25% increase.&nbsp;

The initiative through the Centers 
for Medicare and Medicaid Services will require nursing homes to have a 
minimum number of staff, promote individual rooms for residents, explore
 increasing fines on facilities not in line with standards and create a 
database to keep track of owners’ previous violations.&nbsp;

The administration officials didn’t 
mention if Biden would detail his climate change initiatives in the 
speech. Those proposals made up a significant portion of the Build Back 
Better plans.&nbsp;

The atmosphere of this year’s address
 will be significantly different from last year’s, which technically 
wasn’t a State of the Union, but a speech to a joint session of 
Congress.

The number of attendees won’t be 
nearly as limited as they were last year and members of Congress are no 
longer required to wear masks.&nbsp;

Immediately afterward, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/gov-kim-reynolds-to-deliver-state-of-the-union-response/">will deliver from Des Moines</a> the Republican response to Biden’s State of the Union address.

On Wednesday, Biden is scheduled to 
travel to Superior, Wisconsin, to “discuss Building a Better America,” 
according to the White House.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646093398965.png" alt="President Joe Biden delivers remarks on Dec. 8, 2021, at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in Kansas City, Missouri. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>President Joe Biden delivers remarks on Dec. 8, 2021, at the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority in Kansas City, Missouri. (Allison Kite/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure>By JENNIFER SHUTT <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2022/02/28/heres-what-you-will-hear-biden-talk-about-in-his-debut-state-of-the-union/">States Newsroom</a>WASHINGTON — President Joe Biden’s 
first State of the Union address is set to focus significantly on the 
economy, with the former member of the U.S. Senate calling on Congress 
to pass much of the agenda stalled in the so-called Build Back Better 
bill.<a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-background-on-president-bidens-remarks-on-the-economy-during-his-first-state-of-the-union-address/">During the Tuesday night speech</a>,
 which begins at 8 p.m. Kansas time, Biden will urge lawmakers to send 
him legislation that would lower prescription drug prices, reduce how 
much families pay for child care and create a national paid family and 
medical leave program, administration officials told reporters in a 
Monday briefing.He’ll also call on Congress to pass 
tax legislation that would require corporations and the wealthiest 
Americans to “pay their fair share,” but not raise tax rates on people 
making less than $400,000, according to senior administration 
officials.&nbsp;The policies made up the bulk of 
Democrats’ Build Back Better legislation, but administration officials 
said Biden might not actually use the name of the proposal during his 
speech.&nbsp;“It’s not about the name of the bill, it’s about the ideas, it’s about lowering costs for families,” one official said.&nbsp;Biden’s speech is expected to focus on global issues as well, particularly the Russian invasion of Ukraine.&nbsp;But the part of the speech focused on
 domestic policy issues will give Biden another opportunity to try to 
rally support for initiatives that have been on ice since West Virginia 
Democratic Sen. Joe Manchin III declared the $1.5 trillion climate and 
social spending package dead late last year.&nbsp;Senior administration officials said 
Biden’s comments on the economy will focus on his “vision” for the 
country, particularly his proposals to lower costs for families while 
reducing the federal deficit.&nbsp;To bolster U.S. economic 
competitiveness globally, Biden is expected to appeal to House and 
Senate leaders to reach a conference agreement on legislation that would
 authorize billions in additional funding for science and technology 
research to help the U.S. compete against China.&nbsp;Biden will also call for a federal 
minimum wage of $15 an hour, a proposal that Democrats tried to enact 
last year when they drafted a $1.9 trillion COVID-19 relief package.&nbsp;The proposal was ultimately stripped 
from the bill after the Senate parliamentarian ruled it didn’t fit 
within the bounds of the budget process Democrats used to advance the 
package without Republican support.&nbsp;In addition to calling on Congress to pass initiatives, Biden will focus on <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-administration-announces-new-actions-to-address-the-needs-of-people-with-disabilities-and-older-adults-in-response-to-and-recovery-from-covid-19-2/">how his administration is working to implement </a>the roughly $550 billion bipartisan infrastructure law Congress approved last year.&nbsp;Biden is expected to detail how the 
law will lead to improvements in 65,000 miles of roads; 1,500 bridges; 
15,000 new buses, ferries and subway cars; and 600 airport 
infrastructure projects.&nbsp;He will then tell members of Congress
 how the law will allow the Environmental Protection Agency to fund more
 than 400 water projects and let the Army Corps of Engineers advance 
more than 500 projects.&nbsp;Biden will also detail numerous <a target="_blank" href="https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/statements-releases/2022/02/28/fact-sheet-protecting-seniors-and-people-with-disabilities-by-improving-safety-and-quality-of-care-in-the-nations-nursing-homes/">ways his administration hopes to improve nursing home care, </a>including asking Congress to boost spending on health and safety inspections to $500 million, a nearly 25% increase.&nbsp;The initiative through the Centers 
for Medicare and Medicaid Services will require nursing homes to have a 
minimum number of staff, promote individual rooms for residents, explore
 increasing fines on facilities not in line with standards and create a 
database to keep track of owners’ previous violations.&nbsp;The administration officials didn’t 
mention if Biden would detail his climate change initiatives in the 
speech. Those proposals made up a significant portion of the Build Back 
Better plans.&nbsp;The atmosphere of this year’s address
 will be significantly different from last year’s, which technically 
wasn’t a State of the Union, but a speech to a joint session of 
Congress.The number of attendees won’t be 
nearly as limited as they were last year and members of Congress are no 
longer required to wear masks.&nbsp;Immediately afterward, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds <a target="_blank" href="https://iowacapitaldispatch.com/briefs/gov-kim-reynolds-to-deliver-state-of-the-union-response/">will deliver from Des Moines</a> the Republican response to Biden’s State of the Union address.On Wednesday, Biden is scheduled to 
travel to Superior, Wisconsin, to “discuss Building a Better America,” 
according to the White House.&nbsp;

Here’s what you will hear Biden talk about in State of the Union

FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with several hit and run accidents in Finney County.

Just before 12:30a.m. Sunday, sheriff' deputies observed a hit and run accident in the 1700 Block of North Taylor in Garden City where an electronic crosswalk sign was destroyed, according to a media release.

A short time later, police were notified of an other hit and run in the 1800 Block of West Campbell in Garden City where a utility pole was damaged.

Sheriff's deputies and police worked together and located a suspect identified as 34-year-old Zachary Roth at his residence. They took him into custody in connection with both accidents. He was jailed on requested charges of DUI and failure to report an accident.&nbsp; Roth was not injured.&nbsp; The damage to the cross walk sign and utility pole is estimated at $25,000, according to Garden City Police.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646065242666.png" alt="Roth-photo Finney County" />
 <figcaption>Roth-photo Finney County</figcaption>
 </figure>FINNEY COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities are investigating a suspect in connection with several hit and run accidents in Finney County.Just before 12:30a.m. Sunday, sheriff' deputies observed a hit and run accident in the 1700 Block of North Taylor in Garden City where an electronic crosswalk sign was destroyed, according to a media release.A short time later, police were notified of an other hit and run in the 1800 Block of West Campbell in Garden City where a utility pole was damaged.Sheriff's deputies and police worked together and located a suspect identified as 34-year-old Zachary Roth at his residence. They took him into custody in connection with both accidents. He was jailed on requested charges of DUI and failure to report an accident.&nbsp; Roth was not injured.&nbsp; The damage to the cross walk sign and utility pole is estimated at $25,000, according to Garden City Police.

Police: Kan. man caused $25K damage after hit-and-run accidents

Seeking to tighten the financial squeeze on Russia over its war against Ukraine, governors and lawmakers in numerous U.S. states were taking actions Monday to pull state investments from Russian companies while encouraging private entities to do the same.

The effect of sanctions by U.S. states often pales in comparison to national ones, but state officials said they wanted to show solidarity with Ukraine and do what they could to build upon the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-japan-9fbeb1c66c523f4018abb8ebc6580839">penalties imposed on Russia&nbsp;</a>by the U.S. government and other Western nations.

Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on Monday condemned the unprovoked invasion in Ukraine. "We stand with all those impacted by the violence. Kansas has much in common with Ukraine, including a strong agriculture industry. We’ve collaborated with Ukraine on best practices for water conservation and land stewardship and the most efficient large-scale agricultural production equipment and innovative technology."

“We have been, and continue to be, reviewing continuity of operations plans to ensure we remain vigilant in the event of cyber security attacks on Kansas. In addition, we’ll continue to monitor the developments in Ukraine closely and work to protect Kansans from any potential international economic impacts.”

Georgia House Speaker David Ralston, a Republican, got a bipartisan standing ovation Monday when he told representatives he would seek to have the state’s retirement funds quickly divested from any Russian assets.

“I don’t know about y’all, but I don’t want one penny of Georgians’ money going to subsidize Vladimir Putin,” Ralston said. “While our role in international affairs is limited, we make clear we stand with those who want to live in peace.”

Some actions have been largely symbolic. The capitols in Arizona, Pennsylvania and Tennessee and the governor’s mansion in South Carolina were lit with the blue and yellow colors of Ukraine’s flag. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat, and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as co-chairs of the presidentially appointed Council of Governors. Oklahoma’s Republican-controlled Senate passed a resolution affirming the historical ties between the state and the people of Ukraine and supporting their fight against what it described as “an illegal and violent” Russian invasion.

On Monday, the Indiana House passed legislation that would block Russian-controlled businesses and nonprofits from acquiring property in Indiana for one year. It now goes to the Senate.

“Indiana will not be a safe haven for ill-gotten Russian funds, nor for its oligarchs trying to find financial shelter in the wake of Putin’s unconscionable invasion of Ukraine,” Democratic state Rep. Ryan Dvorak said while proposing the amendment last week.

Pennsylvania lawmakers said Monday they will file legislation requiring state pension funds to pull investments connected to the Russian government and its critical supporters. The state Treasury Department also has begun divesting its minimal holdings in Russian-based companies.

In a memo to fellow senators, Democratic state Sen. Sharif Street said Pennsylvania “must wield our economic power to ensure that Russia faces grave consequences for their flagrant violations of international law and human cooperation.”

Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, a Republican seeking co-sponsors for the legislation, said state lawmakers “have a moral obligation to ensure that our public fund investments are not inadvertently supporting those who are engaging in an unprovoked invasion of their democratically elected neighbors.”

Arkansas lawmakers have filed proposals authorizing banks in the state to freeze the assets of Russian oligarchs and to require a boycott of Russian-made goods. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson declared Tuesday through Thursday “special days of prayer for Ukraine.”

A bipartisan group of California lawmakers said Monday they also will introduce legislation to divest public money from Russian state entities.

New York Gov. Kathy Hochul&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kathy-hochul-europe-new-york-albany-801e565e66a64d9146e76cf3a1f635d2">signed an executive order Sunday</a>&nbsp;forbidding her state from doing business with Russia. She ordered state agencies to divest money and assets from companies or institutions aiding Russia in its war against Ukraine. The Democratic governor also said New York would welcome Ukrainian refugees, noting that New York already is home to the largest Ukrainian population in the U.S.

On Monday, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, ordered state offices under his control to terminate government contracts that benefit Russian businesses.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, also has banned state agencies from doing business with Russian state-owned firms and their subcontractors. Colorado’s $61 billion state pension fund is pulling $8 million from a Russian state-owned bank identified in federal sanctions.

Governors or other state officials in Connecticut, Indiana, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia and Washington also have ordered a review of whether any state money is going to Russian companies or investments supporting the Russian government. A North Dakota investment board was due to meet later this week to discuss its investments in Russia.

“If our state can put one brick in the wall around Putin, it will be a good thing, and we intend to do all that we can in this regard,” said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat.

Two prominent Republican governors, Florida’s Ron DeSantis and South Dakota’s Kristi Noem, who are widely seen as angling for a White House bid, mostly took aim at President Joe Biden rather than issuing executive orders targeting Russia. They criticized his energy policies and said that had made it difficult to slap sanctions on Russia’s exports of oil and gas.

Other governors are seeking to sever good-will relationships between their home states and those in Russia.

Republican Gov. Larry Hogan announced Monday that he’s dissolving Maryland’s decades-old sister-state relationship with Russia’s Leningrad region after the invasion of Ukraine. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, asked the cities of Norfolk and Roanoke to end their sister city partnerships with Russian cities. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican, called for an end to its sister state relationship with Stavrapol Krai, Russia, and a strengthening of its sister state relationship with Cherkasy Oblast, Ukraine.

Several states have expressed a willingness to provide housing to Ukranian refugees. The Washington state House and Senate each have added amendments to their budget proposals setting aside $19 million to provide services and temporary housing to refugees who come from Ukraine.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, posted on Twitter over the weekend that he has asked restaurants and retailers “&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GregAbbott_TX/status/1497659463892934662?s=20&amp;t=w7eDHOCwmXeFXphGIz_HEQ" target="_blank">to voluntarily remove all Russian products from their shelves.”</a>

Officials in Alabama, Iowa, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia — all states that control the sale of alcohol — have directed Russian-sourced alcohol to be removed from store shelves.

“Utah stands in solidarity with Ukraine and will not support Russian enterprises, no matter how small the exchange,” Republican Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646135225245.png" alt="Wichita City Hall lit up in blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag on Monday night to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine. 🇺🇦 -photo by Nolan Roth courtesy City of Wichita" />
 <figcaption>Wichita City Hall lit up in blue and yellow, the colors of the Ukrainian flag on Monday night to show solidarity with the people of Ukraine. 🇺🇦 -photo by Nolan Roth courtesy City of Wichita</figcaption>
 </figure>By DAVID A. LIEBSeeking to tighten the financial squeeze on Russia over its war against Ukraine, governors and lawmakers in numerous U.S. states were taking actions Monday to pull state investments from Russian companies while encouraging private entities to do the same.The effect of sanctions by U.S. states often pales in comparison to national ones, but state officials said they wanted to show solidarity with Ukraine and do what they could to build upon the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-japan-9fbeb1c66c523f4018abb8ebc6580839">penalties imposed on Russia&nbsp;</a>by the U.S. government and other Western nations.Kansas Governor Laura Kelly on Monday condemned the unprovoked invasion in Ukraine. "We stand with all those impacted by the violence. Kansas has much in common with Ukraine, including a strong agriculture industry. We’ve collaborated with Ukraine on best practices for water conservation and land stewardship and the most efficient large-scale agricultural production equipment and innovative technology."“We have been, and continue to be, reviewing continuity of operations plans to ensure we remain vigilant in the event of cyber security attacks on Kansas. In addition, we’ll continue to monitor the developments in Ukraine closely and work to protect Kansans from any potential international economic impacts.”Georgia House Speaker David Ralston, a Republican, got a bipartisan standing ovation Monday when he told representatives he would seek to have the state’s retirement funds quickly divested from any Russian assets.“I don’t know about y’all, but I don’t want one penny of Georgians’ money going to subsidize Vladimir Putin,” Ralston said. “While our role in international affairs is limited, we make clear we stand with those who want to live in peace.”Some actions have been largely symbolic. The capitols in Arizona, Pennsylvania and Tennessee and the governor’s mansion in South Carolina were lit with the blue and yellow colors of Ukraine’s flag. Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, a Democrat, and Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine, a Republican, issued a joint statement condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine as co-chairs of the presidentially appointed Council of Governors. Oklahoma’s Republican-controlled Senate passed a resolution affirming the historical ties between the state and the people of Ukraine and supporting their fight against what it described as “an illegal and violent” Russian invasion.On Monday, the Indiana House passed legislation that would block Russian-controlled businesses and nonprofits from acquiring property in Indiana for one year. It now goes to the Senate.“Indiana will not be a safe haven for ill-gotten Russian funds, nor for its oligarchs trying to find financial shelter in the wake of Putin’s unconscionable invasion of Ukraine,” Democratic state Rep. Ryan Dvorak said while proposing the amendment last week.Pennsylvania lawmakers said Monday they will file legislation requiring state pension funds to pull investments connected to the Russian government and its critical supporters. The state Treasury Department also has begun divesting its minimal holdings in Russian-based companies.In a memo to fellow senators, Democratic state Sen. Sharif Street said Pennsylvania “must wield our economic power to ensure that Russia faces grave consequences for their flagrant violations of international law and human cooperation.”Pennsylvania House Majority Leader Kerry Benninghoff, a Republican seeking co-sponsors for the legislation, said state lawmakers “have a moral obligation to ensure that our public fund investments are not inadvertently supporting those who are engaging in an unprovoked invasion of their democratically elected neighbors.”Arkansas lawmakers have filed proposals authorizing banks in the state to freeze the assets of Russian oligarchs and to require a boycott of Russian-made goods. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson declared Tuesday through Thursday “special days of prayer for Ukraine.”A bipartisan group of California lawmakers said Monday they also will introduce legislation to divest public money from Russian state entities.New York Gov. Kathy Hochul&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-kathy-hochul-europe-new-york-albany-801e565e66a64d9146e76cf3a1f635d2">signed an executive order Sunday</a>&nbsp;forbidding her state from doing business with Russia. She ordered state agencies to divest money and assets from companies or institutions aiding Russia in its war against Ukraine. The Democratic governor also said New York would welcome Ukrainian refugees, noting that New York already is home to the largest Ukrainian population in the U.S.On Monday, North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, ordered state offices under his control to terminate government contracts that benefit Russian businesses.Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat, also has banned state agencies from doing business with Russian state-owned firms and their subcontractors. Colorado’s $61 billion state pension fund is pulling $8 million from a Russian state-owned bank identified in federal sanctions.Governors or other state officials in Connecticut, Indiana, New Jersey, Oregon, Virginia and Washington also have ordered a review of whether any state money is going to Russian companies or investments supporting the Russian government. A North Dakota investment board was due to meet later this week to discuss its investments in Russia.“If our state can put one brick in the wall around Putin, it will be a good thing, and we intend to do all that we can in this regard,” said Washington Gov. Jay Inslee, a Democrat.Two prominent Republican governors, Florida’s Ron DeSantis and South Dakota’s Kristi Noem, who are widely seen as angling for a White House bid, mostly took aim at President Joe Biden rather than issuing executive orders targeting Russia. They criticized his energy policies and said that had made it difficult to slap sanctions on Russia’s exports of oil and gas.Other governors are seeking to sever good-will relationships between their home states and those in Russia.Republican Gov. Larry Hogan announced Monday that he’s dissolving Maryland’s decades-old sister-state relationship with Russia’s Leningrad region after the invasion of Ukraine. Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin, a Republican, asked the cities of Norfolk and Roanoke to end their sister city partnerships with Russian cities. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, a Republican, called for an end to its sister state relationship with Stavrapol Krai, Russia, and a strengthening of its sister state relationship with Cherkasy Oblast, Ukraine.Several states have expressed a willingness to provide housing to Ukranian refugees. The Washington state House and Senate each have added amendments to their budget proposals setting aside $19 million to provide services and temporary housing to refugees who come from Ukraine.Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, posted on Twitter over the weekend that he has asked restaurants and retailers “&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/GregAbbott_TX/status/1497659463892934662?s=20&amp;t=w7eDHOCwmXeFXphGIz_HEQ" target="_blank">to voluntarily remove all Russian products from their shelves.”</a>Officials in Alabama, Iowa, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Utah, Vermont, Virginia and West Virginia — all states that control the sale of alcohol — have directed Russian-sourced alcohol to be removed from store shelves.“Utah stands in solidarity with Ukraine and will not support Russian enterprises, no matter how small the exchange,” Republican Utah Gov. Spencer Cox said.

Kan. Gov. condemns Russian invasion as US states add to financial squeeze 

WASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of their 
reporting and potential tax obligations from working in the gig economy,
 making virtual currency transactions, earning foreign-source income or 
holding certain foreign assets. Information available on IRS.gov and 
instructions on Form 1040 can help taxpayers in understanding and 
meeting these reporting and tax requirements.

Generally, income earned from the gig economy is taxable and must be 
reported to the IRS. The gig economy is activity where people earn 
income providing on-demand work, services or goods. Often, it's through a
 digital platform like an app or website. Taxpayers must report income 
earned from the gig economy on a tax return, even if the income is:

For more information on the gig economy, visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy tax center</a>.

Understand virtual currency reporting and tax requirements

The IRS reminds taxpayers that once again there is a question at the 
top of Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR asking about virtual currency 
transactions. All taxpayers filing these forms must check the box 
indicating either "yes" or "no." A transaction involving virtual 
currency includes, but is not limited to:

If an individual disposed of any virtual currency that was held 
as a capital asset through a sale, exchange or transfer, they should 
check "Yes" and use Form 8949 to figure their capital gain or loss and 
report it on Schedule D (Form 1040).

If they received any virtual currency as compensation for services or
 disposed of any virtual currency they held for sale to customers in a 
trade or business, they must report the income as they would report 
other income of the same type (for example, W-2 wages on Form 1040 or 
1040-SR, line 1, or inventory or services from Schedule C on Schedule 
1). More information on virtual currency can be found in Instruction for
 Form 1040 and on IRS.gov.

A U.S. citizen or resident alien's worldwide income is generally 
subject to U.S. income tax, regardless of where they live. They're also 
subject to the same income tax filing requirements that apply to U.S. 
citizens or resident aliens living in the United States.

U.S. citizens and resident aliens must report unearned income, such 
as interest, dividends, and pensions, from sources outside the United 
States unless exempt by law or a tax treaty. They must also report 
earned income, such as wages and tips, from sources outside the United 
States. An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a 
taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.

A taxpayer is allowed an automatic 2-month extension to June 15 if 
both their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto 
Rico. Even if allowed an extension, a taxpayer will have to pay interest
 on any tax not paid by the regular due date of April 18, 2022.

Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the
 regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply. More information can be found in the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf"> Instructions for Form 1040 and 1040-SR</a>&nbsp;PDF, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p519">Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens</a>.

Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets

Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report 
their worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign
 bank and other financial accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers 
need to complete and attach <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>
 to their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of
 foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.

In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.

Further, separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets 
on their tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or 
other authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value 
exceeded $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with 
the Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) <a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the <a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.

The deadline for filing the annual <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>
 is the same as that of Form 1040. FinCEN grants filers who missed the 
original deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2022, to file
 the FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.

This news release is part of a series called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p17">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/9/1599869632873.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>IRSWASHINGTON — The Internal Revenue Service reminds taxpayers of their 
reporting and potential tax obligations from working in the gig economy,
 making virtual currency transactions, earning foreign-source income or 
holding certain foreign assets. Information available on IRS.gov and 
instructions on Form 1040 can help taxpayers in understanding and 
meeting these reporting and tax requirements.<h2>Gig economy earnings are taxable</h2>Generally, income earned from the gig economy is taxable and must be 
reported to the IRS. The gig economy is activity where people earn 
income providing on-demand work, services or goods. Often, it's through a
 digital platform like an app or website. Taxpayers must report income 
earned from the gig economy on a tax return, even if the income is:<ul>
 <li>From part-time, temporary or side work,</li><li>Not reported on an information return form - like a Form 1099-K, 1099-MISC, W-2 or other income statement or</li><li>Paid in any form, including cash, property, goods or virtual currency.</li>
 </ul>For more information on the gig economy, visit the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/gig-economy-tax-center">gig economy tax center</a>.<h2>Understand virtual currency reporting and tax requirements</h2>The IRS reminds taxpayers that once again there is a question at the 
top of Form 1040 and Form 1040-SR asking about virtual currency 
transactions. All taxpayers filing these forms must check the box 
indicating either "yes" or "no." A transaction involving virtual 
currency includes, but is not limited to:<ul>
 <li>The receipt of virtual currency as payment for goods or services provided;</li><li>The receipt or transfer of virtual currency for free (without 
providing any consideration) that does not qualify as a bona fide gift;</li><li>The receipt of new virtual currency as a result of mining and staking activities;</li><li>The receipt of virtual currency as a result of a hard fork;</li><li>An exchange of virtual currency for property, goods or services;</li><li>An exchange/trade of virtual currency for another virtual currency;</li><li>A sale of virtual currency; and</li><li>Any other disposition of a financial interest in virtual currency.</li>
 </ul>If an individual disposed of any virtual currency that was held 
as a capital asset through a sale, exchange or transfer, they should 
check "Yes" and use Form 8949 to figure their capital gain or loss and 
report it on Schedule D (Form 1040).If they received any virtual currency as compensation for services or
 disposed of any virtual currency they held for sale to customers in a 
trade or business, they must report the income as they would report 
other income of the same type (for example, W-2 wages on Form 1040 or 
1040-SR, line 1, or inventory or services from Schedule C on Schedule 
1). More information on virtual currency can be found in Instruction for
 Form 1040 and on IRS.gov.<h2>Report Foreign Source Income</h2>A U.S. citizen or resident alien's worldwide income is generally 
subject to U.S. income tax, regardless of where they live. They're also 
subject to the same income tax filing requirements that apply to U.S. 
citizens or resident aliens living in the United States.U.S. citizens and resident aliens must report unearned income, such 
as interest, dividends, and pensions, from sources outside the United 
States unless exempt by law or a tax treaty. They must also report 
earned income, such as wages and tips, from sources outside the United 
States. An income tax filing requirement generally applies even if a 
taxpayer qualifies for tax benefits, such as the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-earned-income-exclusion">Foreign Earned Income Exclusion</a> or the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/individuals/international-taxpayers/foreign-tax-credit">Foreign Tax Credit</a>,
 which substantially reduce or eliminate U.S. tax liability. These tax 
benefits are only available if an eligible taxpayer files a U.S. income 
tax return.A taxpayer is allowed an automatic 2-month extension to June 15 if 
both their tax home and abode are outside the United States and Puerto 
Rico. Even if allowed an extension, a taxpayer will have to pay interest
 on any tax not paid by the regular due date of April 18, 2022.Those serving in the military outside the U.S. and Puerto Rico on the
 regular due date of their tax return also qualify for the extension to 
June 15. IRS recommends attaching a statement if one of these two 
situations apply. More information can be found in the<a href="https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/i1040gi.pdf"> Instructions for Form 1040 and 1040-SR</a>&nbsp;PDF, <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-publication-54">Publication 54, Tax Guide for U.S. Citizens and Resident Aliens Abroad</a> and <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p519">Publication 519, U.S. Tax Guide for Aliens</a>.<h2>Reporting required for foreign accounts and assets</h2>Federal law requires U.S. citizens and resident aliens to report 
their worldwide income, including income from foreign trusts and foreign
 bank and other financial accounts. In most cases, affected taxpayers 
need to complete and attach <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-schedule-b-form-1040">Schedule B</a>
 to their tax return. Part III of Schedule B asks about the existence of
 foreign accounts, such as bank and securities accounts, and usually 
requires U.S. citizens to report the country in which each account is 
located.In addition, certain taxpayers may also have to complete and attach to their return <a href="https://www.irs.gov/forms-pubs/about-form-8938">Form 8938, Statement of Foreign Financial Assets</a>.
 Generally, U.S. citizens, resident aliens and certain nonresident 
aliens must report specified foreign financial assets on this form if 
the aggregate value of those assets exceeds certain thresholds. See the 
instructions for this form for details.Further, separate from reporting specified foreign financial assets 
on their tax return, taxpayers with an interest in, or signature or 
other authority over foreign financial accounts whose aggregate value 
exceeded $10,000 at any time during 2020, must file electronically with 
the Treasury Department a Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) <a href="https://bsaefiling.fincen.treas.gov/NoRegFBARFiler.html">Form 114, Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>.
 Because of this threshold, the IRS encourages taxpayers with foreign 
assets, even relatively small ones, to check if this filing requirement 
applies to them. The form is only available through the <a href="https://www.fincen.gov/bsa-e-filing-system">BSA E-filing System website</a>.The deadline for filing the annual <a href="https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/report-of-foreign-bank-and-financial-accounts-fbar">Report of Foreign Bank and Financial Accounts (FBAR)</a>
 is the same as that of Form 1040. FinCEN grants filers who missed the 
original deadline an automatic extension until October 15, 2022, to file
 the FBAR. There is no need to request this extension.This news release is part of a series called the <a href="https://www.irs.gov/newsroom/tax-time-guide">Tax Time Guide</a>, a resource to help taxpayers file an accurate tax return. Additional help is available in <a href="https://www.irs.gov/publications/p17">Publication 17, Your Federal Income Tax</a>.

IRS: Report gig economy income, virtual currency transactions

By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/03/01/bill-would-make-nebraska-a-bidder-to-become-a-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/">Nebraska Examiner</a>

LINCOLN
 — Could Nebraska lure $2 billion in federal funds and become one of 
four national hubs to expand development of clean hydrogen?

State
 lawmakers think so, after giving 43-0 first-round approval to a bill 
that would set up a working group to seek Nebraska’s designation as one 
of four “regional clean hydrogen hubs” in the U.S. working to expand use
 of the green fuel.

The federal Infrastructure
 Investment and Jobs Act set aside $8 billion to create four national 
hydrogen hubs to link up producers of hydrogen with industrial users and
 expand the use of hydrogen to generate power or fuel planes and 
vehicles.

State
 Sen. Bruce Bostelman of Brainard, who sponsored Legislative Bill 1099, 
called Nebraska a “prime candidate” to become one of the hubs, in large 
part due to the large-scale production of clean hydrogen by Monolith 
Materials and because of the state’s central location.

If
 LB 1099 passes, as expected, Nebraska would be the first state to show 
its support of becoming a clean hydrogen hub, according to State Sen. 
Anna Wishart of Lincoln, who works for Monolith.&nbsp;

That
 company, which moved from California to Nebraska in 2018, produces 
clean hydrogen and carbon black using natural gas. Carbon black has a 
variety of uses, including in tires and other rubber products. But 
Bostelman said carbon black has traditionally been produced using oil, 
which is a much dirtier process than using natural gas.&nbsp;

Monolith
 plans to use most of its hydrogen to produce anhydrous ammonia 
fertilizer as part of a $1 billion expansion of its Hallam, Nebraska, 
plant later this year. It would become the state’s largest user of 
electricity, officials said.&nbsp;

Plymouth
 Sen. Tom Brandt, who is a farmer, praised the Monolith project, which 
is in his legislative district. Not only has the company created 90 
good-paying, “clean energy” jobs and invested $100 million in its 
existing plant, he said, but it will create another 200 jobs with its 
expansion.

“It’s an economic success story for the State of Nebraska,” Brandt said.

Monolith
 initially wanted to use its hydrogen to create electricity at a nearby 
NPPD power station in Hallam. But when that proved not to be feasible, 
the business model was changed to produce anhydrous ammonia.

Brandt said that will benefit farmers, who have seen costs of the fertilizer rise from $400 a ton to $1,500 a ton. The U.S. is the largest importer of anhydrous ammonia in the world.

Wishart
 said developing and expanding the production of clean hydrogen is one 
of the keys if the nation is to be carbon-free by 2050. Hydrogen is 
being eyed as a fuel to power jet airplanes as well as heavy machinery.

Under
 an amendment to LB 1099 adopted Tuesday, local industries would pay the
 cost of hiring a consultant to prepare Nebraska’s bid to become a 
hydrogen hub. The bill had originally called for expenditures of 
$250,000 to hire a consultant.

The
 working group, Bostelman said, will include representatives of the 
Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the clean hydrogen industry
 and the manufacturing, transportation and agriculture sectors.&nbsp;

&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Energy is scheduled to name the four hubs by May 2023.&nbsp; 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169655870.png" alt="Monolith Materials says its plant south of Lincoln is the largest facility of its kind in the world in producing clean hydrogen from natural gas (photo courtesy of Monolith Materials via Nebraska Reflector) " />
 <figcaption>Monolith Materials says its plant south of Lincoln is the largest facility of its kind in the world in producing clean hydrogen from natural gas (photo courtesy of Monolith Materials via Nebraska Reflector) </figcaption>
 </figure>By PAUL HAMMEL <a href="https://nebraskaexaminer.com/2022/03/01/bill-would-make-nebraska-a-bidder-to-become-a-regional-clean-hydrogen-hub/">Nebraska Examiner</a>LINCOLN
 — Could Nebraska lure $2 billion in federal funds and become one of 
four national hubs to expand development of clean hydrogen?State
 lawmakers think so, after giving 43-0 first-round approval to a bill 
that would set up a working group to seek Nebraska’s designation as one 
of four “regional clean hydrogen hubs” in the U.S. working to expand use
 of the green fuel.The federal Infrastructure
 Investment and Jobs Act set aside $8 billion to create four national 
hydrogen hubs to link up producers of hydrogen with industrial users and
 expand the use of hydrogen to generate power or fuel planes and 
vehicles.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169718923.jpeg" alt="State Sen. Bruce L. Bostelman of Brainard (Gregory Nathan/University Communication)" />
 <figcaption>State Sen. Bruce L. Bostelman of Brainard (Gregory Nathan/University Communication)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>‘A prime candidate’</h2>State
 Sen. Bruce Bostelman of Brainard, who sponsored Legislative Bill 1099, 
called Nebraska a “prime candidate” to become one of the hubs, in large 
part due to the large-scale production of clean hydrogen by Monolith 
Materials and because of the state’s central location.If
 LB 1099 passes, as expected, Nebraska would be the first state to show 
its support of becoming a clean hydrogen hub, according to State Sen. 
Anna Wishart of Lincoln, who works for Monolith.&nbsp;That
 company, which moved from California to Nebraska in 2018, produces 
clean hydrogen and carbon black using natural gas. Carbon black has a 
variety of uses, including in tires and other rubber products. But 
Bostelman said carbon black has traditionally been produced using oil, 
which is a much dirtier process than using natural gas.&nbsp;Monolith
 plans to use most of its hydrogen to produce anhydrous ammonia 
fertilizer as part of a $1 billion expansion of its Hallam, Nebraska, 
plant later this year. It would become the state’s largest user of 
electricity, officials said.&nbsp;Plymouth
 Sen. Tom Brandt, who is a farmer, praised the Monolith project, which 
is in his legislative district. Not only has the company created 90 
good-paying, “clean energy” jobs and invested $100 million in its 
existing plant, he said, but it will create another 200 jobs with its 
expansion.“It’s an economic success story for the State of Nebraska,” Brandt said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646169752197.jpeg" alt="Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)" />
 <figcaption>Sen. Tom Brandt of Plymouth (Rebecca S. Gratz for the Nebraska Examiner)</figcaption>
 </figure>Monolith
 initially wanted to use its hydrogen to create electricity at a nearby 
NPPD power station in Hallam. But when that proved not to be feasible, 
the business model was changed to produce anhydrous ammonia.<h2>Farmers could benefit</h2>Brandt said that will benefit farmers, who have seen costs of the fertilizer rise from $400 a ton to $1,500 a ton. The U.S. is the largest importer of anhydrous ammonia in the world.Wishart
 said developing and expanding the production of clean hydrogen is one 
of the keys if the nation is to be carbon-free by 2050. Hydrogen is 
being eyed as a fuel to power jet airplanes as well as heavy machinery.Under
 an amendment to LB 1099 adopted Tuesday, local industries would pay the
 cost of hiring a consultant to prepare Nebraska’s bid to become a 
hydrogen hub. The bill had originally called for expenditures of 
$250,000 to hire a consultant.The
 working group, Bostelman said, will include representatives of the 
Nebraska Department of Economic Development, the clean hydrogen industry
 and the manufacturing, transportation and agriculture sectors.&nbsp;&nbsp;The U.S. Department of Energy is scheduled to name the four hubs by May 2023.&nbsp;

Bill would make Nebraska a bidder to become ‘clean hydrogen hub’

Grocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;

Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?

BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;

Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.

Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.

Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.

Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;

Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.

Supply chain disruption tips for consumers

What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.

If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.

If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.

<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/3/1646151977079.jpg" alt="Image courtesy of Pixabay" />
 <figcaption>Image courtesy of Pixabay</figcaption>
 </figure>BBBGrocery aisles have gaping empty
 sections, and shoppers can never predict what’s going to be 
unavailable. New car dealerships struggle to fill their empty lots. 
People building homes report long waits for critical materials like 
windows and doors. Almost every industry has shortages and delays that 
all boil down to supply chain issues.&nbsp;Consumers and business owners are 
frustrated and confused. COVID-19 infection rates are declining, and 
restrictions have eased in most parts of America. Shouldn’t things be 
getting better by now?BBB provides the following information on why supply chain 
disruption is still ongoing and tips on how businesses and consumers can
 combat it.&nbsp;<h2>Disruption causes</h2>Everything from sandwich meat to 
household appliances seems to be in short supply, but how did it get 
this way? The disruption is so hard to fix because many of the factors 
that caused it still exist. Plus, once the global machine shuts down, it
 takes a while to get things started again, and all the pieces have to 
work together. These causes set off a chain of events.<ul>
 <li>Governments worldwide responded to the Covid-19 pandemic with shutdowns.&nbsp;</li><li>Organizations halted production and laid off employees.</li><li>Component shortages began affecting everything from automobile production to the manufacture of medical devices.</li><li>Fewer goods were produced.&nbsp;</li><li>Demand
 surged as people stuck at home sought merchandise. The goods they 
wanted changed as lifestyles shifted. Funds previously allocated for 
things like haircuts, gym memberships and live entertainment now went 
toward products.</li><li>Government stimulus programs encouraged spending.</li><li>Protective gear needs spiked, and shipping and delivery of related goods took priority.</li><li>Shipping
 containers started to pile up in parts of the world where they weren’t 
needed and weren’t available where they were. Shipping costs skyrocketed
 and ports clogged.</li><li>Businesses
 experienced labor shortages. Trucking companies, warehouses and ports 
remained understaffed, further complicating distribution.</li><li>Because
 of staffing problems, imports were slow to get unloaded. Containers 
weren’t emptied and sent back for refilling, and loaded container ships 
sat idle outside ports.</li><li>Consumers and businesses started buying extra whenever they could find it, creating additional supply chain issues.</li>
 </ul>Around the globe, production 
continues to be hampered by labor and materials shortages, so 
manufacturing happens in spurts and sputters. When one link in the 
supply chain gets broken, it affects everything that comes after.<h2>How long will supply chain issues last?</h2>Some economists say <a href="https://www.morganstanley.com/ideas/supply-chain-disruption-outlook" target="_blank">things should ease up later in 2022</a>, while others <a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2022/02/01/business/supply-chain-disruption.html" target="_blank">expect problems to continue</a>
 into next year. There still aren’t enough workers to unload goods piled
 up at ports or enough truckers to distribute products across the United
 States. While COVID-19 restrictions have recently eased, it will take a
 while to sort out a complicated situation that was almost two years in 
the making.<h2>Best practices for businesses</h2>Costs are up, employees are hard to find and there’s no end in sight. What can you do to keep your business running and your customers happy?&nbsp;<ul>
 <li>Plan for more disruption
 – Nobody seems to have a working crystal ball right now, but you can 
count on more bottlenecks and shortages in the near future. Have more 
than one plan for addressing the next round of manufacturing and 
supplier delays.</li><li>Streamline what you offer
 – If you’re a restaurant, pare down your menu to include items that are
 easier to find. If you’re a retailer, order more from the manufacturers
 that have been coming through for you all along.</li><li>Create realistic expectations – Don’t overpromise. Communicate with the public what you offer and how much is available.&nbsp;</li><li>Offer incentives
 – If you run out of an item for which there’s high demand, consider 
offering a coupon or incentive that brings people back once you stock up
 again.</li><li>Invest in technology – Automate everything you can to free up overworked staff members for other things.</li><li>Improve your local network – If you can find business resources close to home, you skip import complications.</li>
 </ul>Consumers know there are problems, 
and while it’s normal to wish we could go back to the old normal, most 
people are understanding. Good communication goes a long way in times of
 crisis.<h2>Supply chain disruption tips for consumers</h2>What can you do when your car breaks 
down and the local mechanic can’t get the part you need for at least six
 weeks? How can you respond when it’s your child’s birthday and the gift
 he or she has been begging for is nowhere to be found? What do you do 
when half the items on your grocery list are out of stock? Here are a few ideas.<ul>
 <li>Shop around
 – Sometimes grocery chains and big box stores have empty shelves, but 
local mom and pop stores have found a way to procure merchandise.</li><li>Conserve – Cut back on what you use, so you don’t have to stock up as often.&nbsp;</li><li>Maintain
 – Appliances and automobiles are getting more expensive, and they can 
be hard to find. Invest in maintaining what you have so hopefully you 
won’t need to buy a replacement until today’s supply chain issues are in
 your rearview mirror.</li><li>Try new things
 – If you can’t find what’s on your list, infuse your search with a 
sense of adventure. You’ll discover flavors, brands and methods you 
might have otherwise missed.</li><li>Express gratitude
 – Thank the person stocking grocery shelves for his or her hard work. 
Buy that trucker at the gas station a cup of coffee. Show appreciation 
when you get seated at a restaurant, even if you had to wait longer than
 usual.</li>
 </ul><h2>BBB tools that can help</h2>If you’re a consumer,
 BBB can help you make informed buying decisions. Search BBB business 
profiles, file a complaint when businesses don’t deliver on their 
promises, search ongoing scams and more using <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-resources">BBB consumer resources</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/consumer-hq" target="_blank">Consumer HQ</a>.If you run a business,
 we can help you with everything from marketing to sales to building 
solid customer relationships. Apply for BBB Accreditation and start 
building trust through our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/business-resources">business resources page</a> and our <a href="https://www.bbb.org/all/your-business-hq" target="_blank">Business content HQ</a>.<a href="https://www.bbb.org/local-bbb/bbb-serving-central-east-texas">BBB Serving Central East Texas</a> contributed this article.

How businesses, consumers can cope with supply chain disruptions

SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon, prohibited from having a weapon, made a court appearance last week after police found numerous weapons at his residence.&nbsp;

Alejandro Morales, 19 of Wichita, is charged with three counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.

On February 16, the Wichita Police Violent Crimes Community Response Team Officers spotted Morales leaving in a vehicle from a home in the 1700 block of S. Elizabeth in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy.

 A traffic stop was conducted, and Morales was taken into custody. 

Upon serving the warrant on the residence on Elizabeth Street, officers located four handguns, including an AK-47 pistol. Police transported him to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked him.&nbsp;

His next court date is March 7, according to the district attorney's office.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645749853368.png" alt="Photo Wichita Police" />
 <figcaption>Photo Wichita Police</figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY —A Kansas felon, prohibited from having a weapon, made a court appearance last week after police found numerous weapons at his residence.&nbsp;Alejandro Morales, 19 of Wichita, is charged with three counts of criminal possession of a weapon by a convicted felon, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney's office.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645749751085.png" alt="Morales-photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Morales-photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>On February 16, the Wichita Police Violent Crimes Community Response Team Officers spotted Morales leaving in a vehicle from a home in the 1700 block of S. Elizabeth in Wichita, according to Officer Trevor Macy. A traffic stop was conducted, and Morales was taken into custody. Upon serving the warrant on the residence on Elizabeth Street, officers located four handguns, including an AK-47 pistol. Police transported him to the Sedgwick County Jail and booked him.&nbsp;His next court date is March 7, according to the district attorney's office.

Kan. felon found with an AK-47 pistol formally charged

SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating suspect on multiple charges including felony interference with law enforcement following a pursuit on Saturday.

&nbsp;Shortly before 12:30 a.m. Saturday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a silver 1997 Ford Crown Victoria near SE 37th Street and SE Colfax Place for speeding, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. 

The driver, later identified as Anthony L. Marshall III, 29, Topeka, pulled over and the deputy approached the vehicle. While the deputy was speaking to the driver, he learned the driver did not have a driver’s license and he observed a bag of illegal narcotic pills.

While the deputy was continuing the investigation, the driver fled the scene in his vehicle, initiating a pursuit. The pursuit continued and was ended in the 2300 block of SE Highland Avenue when the deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention.

Deputies took Marshall into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, failure to wear a seat belt, no vehicle liability insurance and speeding.

This incident is under investigation. Additional evidence is being sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Additional charges are pending. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1645970631480.png" alt="Marshall-photo Shawnee Co." />
 <figcaption>Marshall-photo Shawnee Co.</figcaption>
 </figure>SHAWNEE COUNTY—Law enforcement authorities are investigating suspect on multiple charges including felony interference with law enforcement following a pursuit on Saturday.&nbsp;Shortly before 12:30 a.m. Saturday, a deputy conducted a traffic stop on a silver 1997 Ford Crown Victoria near SE 37th Street and SE Colfax Place for speeding, according to Deputy Abigail Christian. The driver, later identified as Anthony L. Marshall III, 29, Topeka, pulled over and the deputy approached the vehicle. While the deputy was speaking to the driver, he learned the driver did not have a driver’s license and he observed a bag of illegal narcotic pills.While the deputy was continuing the investigation, the driver fled the scene in his vehicle, initiating a pursuit. The pursuit continued and was ended in the 2300 block of SE Highland Avenue when the deputy performed a tactical vehicle intervention.Deputies took Marshall into custody and booked him into the Shawnee County Department of Corrections on requested charges of fleeing or attempting to elude law enforcement, reckless driving, interference with law enforcement, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating a vehicle without a valid driver’s license, failure to wear a seat belt, no vehicle liability insurance and speeding.This incident is under investigation. Additional evidence is being sent to the Kansas Bureau of Investigation. Additional charges are pending.

Sheriff: Evidence going to KBI after chase, arrest

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.

When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.

Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.

The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.

Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.

Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.

Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.

It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.

The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.

By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.

With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.

In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.

During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.

“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”

Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.

Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.

“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.

Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.

“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.

Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.

The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.

Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.

Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.

“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.

U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.

White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”

The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.

If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.

Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.

Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.

“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.

In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.

“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”

Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.

But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.

The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.

Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.

Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.

About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.

Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.

Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.

Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.

KYIV, Ukraine (AP) — President Vladimir Putin dramatically escalated East-West tensions by ordering Russian nuclear forces put on high alert Sunday, while Ukraine’s embattled leader agreed to talks with Moscow as Putin’s troops and tanks drove deeper into the country, closing in around the capital.When asked on Monday if Americans should be worried about nuclear war, President Biden didn't hesitate.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Q: &quot;Should Americans be worried about nuclear war?&quot; President Biden: &quot;No.&quot; <a href="https://t.co/ZRg15av1l3">pic.twitter.com/ZRg15av1l3</a>&mdash; CSPAN (@cspan) <a href="https://twitter.com/cspan/status/1498390465602797571?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">February 28, 2022</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Citing “aggressive statements” by NATO and tough financial sanctions, Putin issued a directive to increase the readiness of Russia’s nuclear weapons, raising fears that the invasion of Ukraine could lead to nuclear war, whether by design or mistake.The Russian leader is “potentially putting in play forces that, if there’s a miscalculation, could make things much, much more dangerous,” said a senior U.S. defense official, speaking on condition of anonymity to discuss rapidly unfolding military operations.Putin’s directive came as Russian forces encountered strong resistance from Ukraine defenders. Moscow has so far failed to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace, despite advances across the country. U.S. officials say they believe the invasion has been more difficult, and slower, than the Kremlin envisioned, though that could change as Moscow adapts.Amid the mounting tensions, Western nations said they would tighten sanctions and buy and deliver weapons for Ukraine, including Stinger missiles for shooting down helicopters and other aircraft.Representatives of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held talks with a Russian delegation at the Belarusian border on Monday.It wasn’t immediately clear what the Kremlin was ultimately seeking, either in those potential talks on the border or, more broadly, from its war in Ukraine. Western officials believe Putin wants to overthrow Ukraine’s government and replace it with a regime of his own, reviving Moscow’s Cold War-era influence.The fast-moving developments came as scattered fighting was reported in Kyiv. Battles also broke out in Ukraine’s second-largest city, Kharkiv, and strategic ports in the country’s south came under assault from Russian forces.By late Sunday, Russian forces had taken Berdyansk, a Ukrainian city of 100,000 on the Azov Sea coast, according to Oleksiy Arestovich, an adviser to Zelenskyy’s office. Russian troops also made advances toward Kherson, another city in the south of Ukraine, while Mariupol, a port city on the Sea of Azov that is considered a prime Russian target, is “hanging on,” Arestovich said.With Russian troops closing in around Kyiv, a city of almost 3 million, the mayor of the capital expressed doubt that civilians could be evacuated. Authorities have been handing out weapons to anyone willing to defend the city. Ukraine is also releasing prisoners with military experience who want to fight, and training people to make firebombs.In Mariupol, where Ukrainians were trying to fend off attack, a medical team at a city hospital desperately tried to revive a 6-year-old girl in unicorn pajamas who was mortally wounded in Russian shelling.During the rescue attempt, a doctor in blue medical scrubs, pumping oxygen into the girl, looked directly into the Associated Press video camera capturing the scene.“Show this to Putin,” he said angrily. “The eyes of this child, and crying doctors.”Their resuscitation efforts failed, and the girl lay dead on a gurney, her jacket spattered with blood.Nearly 900 kilometers (560 miles) away, Faina Bystritska was under threat in the city of Chernihiv.“I wish I had never lived to see this,” said Bystritska, an 87-year-old Jewish survivor of World War II. She said sirens blare almost constantly in the city, about 150 kilometers (90 miles) from Kyiv.Chernihiv residents have been told not to switch on any lights “so we don’t draw their attention,” said Bystritska, who has been living in a hallway, away from any windows, so she could better protect herself.“The window glass constantly shakes, and there is this constant thundering noise,” she said.Meanwhile, the top official in the European Union outlined plans by the 27-nation bloc to close its airspace to Russian airlines and buy weapons for Ukraine. The EU will also ban some pro-Kremlin media outlets, said European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen.The U.S. also stepped up the flow of weapons to Ukraine, announcing it will send Stinger missiles as part of a package approved by the White House on Friday. Germany likewise plans to send 500 Stingers and other military supplies.Also, the 193-member U.N. General Assembly scheduled an emergency session Monday on Russia’s invasion.Putin, in ordering the nuclear alert, cited not only statements by NATO members but the hard-hitting financial sanctions imposed by the West against Russia, including Putin himself.“Western countries aren’t only taking unfriendly actions against our country in the economic sphere, but top officials from leading NATO members made aggressive statements regarding our country,” Putin said in televised comments.U.S. defense officials would not disclose their current nuclear alert level except to say that the military is prepared all times to defend its homeland and allies.White House press secretary Jen Psaki told ABC that Putin is resorting to the pattern he used in the weeks before the invasion, “which is to manufacture threats that don’t exist in order to justify further aggression.”The practical meaning of Putin’s order was not immediately clear. Russia and the United States typically have land- and submarine-based nuclear forces that are on alert and prepared for combat at all times, but nuclear-capable bombers and other aircraft are not.If Putin is arming or otherwise raising the nuclear combat readiness of his bombers, or if he is ordering more ballistic missile submarines to sea, then the U.S. might feel compelled to respond in kind, said Hans Kristensen, a nuclear analyst at the Federation of American Scientists.Earlier Sunday, Kyiv was eerily quiet after explosions lit up the morning sky and authorities reported blasts at one airport. A main boulevard was practically deserted as a strict curfew kept people off the streets. Authorities warned that anyone venturing out without a pass would be considered a Russian saboteur.Terrified residents hunkered down in homes, underground garages and subway stations in anticipation of a full-scale Russian assault. Food and medicine were running low, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko said.“Right now, the most important question is to defend our country,” Klitschko said.In downtown Kharkiv, 86-year-old Olena Dudnik said she and her husband were nearly thrown from their bed by the pressure blast of a nearby explosion.“We are suffering immensely,” she said by phone. “We don’t have much food in the pantry, and I worry the stores aren’t going to have anything either, if they reopen.” She added: “I just want the shooting to stop, people to stop being killed.”Russia’s failure thus far to win full control of Ukraine’s airspace is a surprising lapse that has given outgunned Ukrainian forces a chance to slow the advance of Russian ground forces. Normally, gaining what the military calls air superiority is one of the first priorities for an invading force.But even though Russian troops are being slowed by Ukrainian resistance, fuel shortages and other logistical problems, a senior U.S. defense official said that will probably change. “We are in day four. The Russians will learn and adapt,” the official said.The number of casualties from Europe’s largest land conflict since World War II remained unclear amid the confusion.Ukraine’s Interior Ministry said Sunday that 352 Ukrainian civilians have been killed, including 14 children. It said an additional 1,684 people, including 116 children, have been wounded.Russian Defense Ministry spokesman Maj. Gen. Igor Konashenkov gave no figures on Russia’s dead and wounded but said Sunday his country’s losses were “many times” lower than Ukraine’s.About 368,000 Ukrainians have arrived in neighboring countries since the invasion started Thursday, according to the U.N. refugee agency.Along with military assistance, the U.S., European Union and Britain also agreed to block&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-business-europe-european-union-704b3b6678c5d23bd05482c89a0384d2">selected Russian banks</a>&nbsp;from the SWIFT system, which moves money around thousands of banks and other financial institutions worldwide. They also moved to slap restrictions on Russia’s central bank.Russia’s economy has taken a pounding since the invasion, with the ruble plunging and the central bank calling for calm to avoid bank runs.Russia, which massed almost 200,000 troops along Ukraine’s borders, claims&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-conflict-updates-today-c489b6f56d84f9483802dc3f142cbc8e">its assault&nbsp;</a>is aimed only at military targets, but bridges, schools and residential neighborhoods have also been hit.___

President Biden: Americans should not worry about nuclear war

JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Sunday morning shooting at a home in Lenexa have identified the three who died.

According to Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez, the victims are 20-year-old John M. Williamson of Lenexa 22-year-old Sara M. Beck and 37-year-old Dustin J. Johnson both of Belton, Missouri.

Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday police responded to a reported shooting at a&nbsp; home in the 8400 Block of Laurelwood Street.

Officers found three who had been shot. One victim was dead. EMS transported two other victims to the hospital where they died, according to Chavez.

Police have not reported what led to the shooting.

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Three people died after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. 

The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where they later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. This is the first homicide reported in Lenexa since last May.

LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Two people died and a third person was injured after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2022/2/1646085402627.png" alt="Police at a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa -photo courtesy KCTV" />
 <figcaption>Police at a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa -photo courtesy KCTV</figcaption>
 </figure>JOHNSON COUNTY —Law enforcement authorities investigating a Sunday morning shooting at a home in Lenexa have identified the three who died.According to Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez, the victims are 20-year-old John M. Williamson of Lenexa 22-year-old Sara M. Beck and 37-year-old Dustin J. Johnson both of Belton, Missouri.Just before 1:30 a.m. Sunday police responded to a reported shooting at a&nbsp; home in the 8400 Block of Laurelwood Street.Officers found three who had been shot. One victim was dead. EMS transported two other victims to the hospital where they died, according to Chavez. Police have not reported what led to the shooting.-------------LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Three people died after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where they later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. This is the first homicide reported in Lenexa since last May.--------LENEXA, Kan. (AP) — Two people died and a third person was injured after a shooting in a Kansas City suburb on Sunday. Lenexa Police Department spokesman Officer Danny Chavez said the shooting was reported around 1:20 a.m. Sunday inside a home in the 8400 block of Laurelwood Street in Lenexa. The Kansas City Star reports that three people with gunshot wounds were found inside the house. Chavez said one person died at the house. The other two victims were taken to a hospital where one later died. The victims’ names and ages were not immediately released. And the condition of the victim that survived the shooting also wasn’t released Sunday morning.