The file association for the desktop shortcuts was CHANGED from "Unknown Application" to Access.  Now clicking on the shortcut links it to Microsoft Access instead of what is in its properties to "OPEN With" such as Excel. How can i change them back?If it were me, I would creature a new shortcut and delete the old one.
That is based on my own limited experience. It is just too hard to edit and modify a shortcut. It is so much easier to make a new one.
I agree with geek on this one, additionally if you find that .lnk's ( shotcuts ) are all somehow associated with access you have a different problem on your hands.

Years ago a malware infection caused .lnk havoc... Its rare to GET hit with this these days. More info here: https://malwaretips.com/blogs/lnk-file-association/
Windows Repair by tweaking.com has a feature to restore the .lnk associations.Thanks everyone. Deleting the old shortcut and creating a new one doesn't work. The lnk extension is still linked to Access. I'll check out the other suggestions and post how THINGS go. I guess i could always restore the latest backup, but trying to work this out is kinda fun. Till next time... Doesn't make sense...how did you create the new shortcut > >,,,and did you delete the old one before creating the new one :? ?

If so your'e infected...
Have you tried to Change file associations by following the steps below.

To set File Associations in Windows 10/8/7, Open Control Panel > Control Panel Home > Default Programs > Set Associations. Select a file type in the list and click Change Program.

http://www.thewindowsclub.com/change-file-associations-windows