The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.

By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>

At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.

Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.

Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.

Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.

Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.

“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.

Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.

The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.

<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.

The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.

On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.

“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.

“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”

As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.

Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.

In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.

Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590675954803.png" alt="Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR" />
 <figcaption>Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a California-based operator of long-term care facilities in 13 states. Julie Denesha / KCUR</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte Co.</h2>By DAN MARGOLIES <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-05-27/at-least-8-lawsuits-are-now-pending-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-deaths">Kansas News Service</a>At least eight lawsuits have now been filed against Riverbend Post-Acute Rehabilitation, the Kansas City, Kansas, nursing home <a href="https://wyandotte-county-covid-19-hub-unifiedgov.hub.arcgis.com/" target="_blank">where 132 patients and staff have tested positive for COVID-19</a> and 36 have died.Attorneys
 representing the nursing home on Tuesday transferred all eight cases to
 federal court in Kansas City, Kansas. They had originally been filed in
 Wyandotte County District Court.Defendants are allowed to move 
civil actions from state to federal court if there’s a basis for federal
 jurisdiction. In all eight cases, Riverbend’s attorneys invoked the 
federal Public Readiness and Emergency Preparedness Act, a law that 
authorizes the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human 
Services to issue a declaration in response to a public health 
emergency.Such a declaration provides immunity from liability to 
health care providers who prescribe and administer medications and other
 measures amid public health emergencies like the COVID-19 pandemic.Rachel
 Stahle, an attorney who represents families in four of the eight cases,
 said she will seek to have the cases sent back to state court.“This happened in Wyandotte County and should be heard in Wyandotte County by Wyandotte County jurors,” she said.Riverbend’s attorneys did not return calls seeking comment.The
 eight wrongful-death lawsuits were filed on behalf of patients who died
 at Riverbend. In general, they allege that the nursing home was 
negligent in how it handled the spread of the coronavirus, that it 
lacked adequate staff and that it failed to notify the families of the 
outbreak.<a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-04-23/first-lawsuit-filed-against-kansas-city-kansas-rehab-facility-over-covid-19-death" target="_blank">The first lawsuit was filed on April 28</a>
 by the wife and daughter of Okey Long, an 87-year-old retired barber 
who died on April 17. The other lawsuits were filed in the following 
days by family members of other residents who were said to have died of 
COVID-19.The 36 deaths at Riverbend account for half the COVID-19-related deaths in Wyandotte County.On April 26, <a href="https://riverbendkansascity.com/covid-19-update/" target="_blank">Riverbend posted a statement on its website</a> offering its condolences to the families and friends of residents who died of COVID-19.“Given
 the novel nature of the virus and the ability of asymptomatic 
individuals to unknowingly infect others, we believe our team took 
reasonable actions with the resources and information available to us at
 the time,” the statement reads.“Now, to second guess those on 
the front lines battling a mysterious virus who were doing what they 
could to save lives, just doesn’t feel like a path to justice,” the 
statement says. "If that is the route we choose to take, then skilled 
nursing facilities all across the country will be facing a new crisis 
that threatens the industry’s ability to minister to those in need of 
the care and services it provides.”As of May 21, at least 7,732 
long-term care facilities in 43 states were reporting 174,381 infections
 and 35,118 deaths, or 42% of all U.S. deaths attributed to COVID-19, <a href="https://www.kff.org/health-costs/issue-brief/state-data-and-policy-actions-to-address-coronavirus/" target="_blank">according to the Kaiser Family Foundation</a>.Riverbend
 is indirectly owned by The Ensign Group, a publicly traded company 
based in Mission Viejo, California. The company owns about 225 assisted 
living, skilled nursing and rehabilitative care facilities in 13 states.
 It acquired the Kansas City, Kansas, facility in 2016.In 2019, The Ensign Group earned more than $110 million on revenues of more than $2 billion. <a href="https://www.sec.gov/ix?doc=/Archives/edgar/data/1125376/000112537620000076/ensg-20200331.htm" target="_blank">In its most recent quarterly filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission</a>,
 the company said it expected to receive nearly $40 million in federal 
funds under the CARES Act, the $2.2 trillion relief package passed by 
Congress to help prop up health care providers and other businesses amid
 the pandemic.Dan Margolies is senior reporter and editor at KCUR. He can be reached by email at dan@kcur.org or on Twitter @DanMargolies.&nbsp;

Lawsuits pile up against rehab facility linked to virus deaths


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti gave county commissioners acting as the Board of Health a preview of his intent in writing a county health order that will come out later this week.

"I would recommend that we don't set a mass gathering limit, a specific, arbitrary number," Baldetti said. "Instead, we continue to maintain social distance where applicable, that six-foot radius and then, for those gatherings and events that have the potential of having greater than 100, that the conveners and facilitators of those gatherings consult with the Reno County Health Department for best practice advice and protocols moving forward."

Baldetti won't mandate masks, either, though he was wearing one at Wednesday's meeting and explained why.

"It is not an aspect of protecting myself from another," Baldetti said. "Instead, it's the opposite, in that I am protecting you from me. For instance, you see that I'm wearing a mask today. Right now, that's because I have a family member who is getting tested and we're awaiting test results. Out of an abundance of caution, I'm wearing a mask to try and limit potential exposure, although we're practicing social distancing within this room right now."

As for individual businesses and the measures they choose to take or not take, the commissioners suggested that business owners just need to be informed of the best practices determined for their individual business sectors by the Reno County Economic Recovery Task Force and that Health Department officials and those with the Chamber be prepared to answer any questions owners and operators might have on the matter.

"What we've done very well in Reno County is adhere to those social distancing guidelines and hygiene practices and upper respiratory etiquette specifically and taken it seriously enough, in terms of the guidelines set forth and the recommendation and best practices," Baldetti said. "We stymied at every turn a real, robust communal spread, like we've seen in other counties. Moving forward, that isn't to say that we don't have it, nor are we not going to have it. In fact, it's almost a surety that we will have COVID-19 activity, at minimum, throughout the duration of this year."

With that said, all Baldetti and the commission are looking for right now is an order to get them past the 4th of July weekend. He initially talked about bringing it up short of the holiday, but commissioners recommended that if there need to be restrictions for the 4th, that people know about them as soon as they can.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589983765832.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti gave county commissioners acting as the Board of Health a preview of his intent in writing a county health order that will come out later this week."I would recommend that we don't set a mass gathering limit, a specific, arbitrary number," Baldetti said. "Instead, we continue to maintain social distance where applicable, that six-foot radius and then, for those gatherings and events that have the potential of having greater than 100, that the conveners and facilitators of those gatherings consult with the Reno County Health Department for best practice advice and protocols moving forward."Baldetti won't mandate masks, either, though he was wearing one at Wednesday's meeting and explained why."It is not an aspect of protecting myself from another," Baldetti said. "Instead, it's the opposite, in that I am protecting you from me. For instance, you see that I'm wearing a mask today. Right now, that's because I have a family member who is getting tested and we're awaiting test results. Out of an abundance of caution, I'm wearing a mask to try and limit potential exposure, although we're practicing social distancing within this room right now."As for individual businesses and the measures they choose to take or not take, the commissioners suggested that business owners just need to be informed of the best practices determined for their individual business sectors by the Reno County Economic Recovery Task Force and that Health Department officials and those with the Chamber be prepared to answer any questions owners and operators might have on the matter."What we've done very well in Reno County is adhere to those social distancing guidelines and hygiene practices and upper respiratory etiquette specifically and taken it seriously enough, in terms of the guidelines set forth and the recommendation and best practices," Baldetti said. "We stymied at every turn a real, robust communal spread, like we've seen in other counties. Moving forward, that isn't to say that we don't have it, nor are we not going to have it. In fact, it's almost a surety that we will have COVID-19 activity, at minimum, throughout the duration of this year."With that said, all Baldetti and the commission are looking for right now is an order to get them past the 4th of July weekend. He initially talked about bringing it up short of the holiday, but commissioners recommended that if there need to be restrictions for the 4th, that people know about them as soon as they can.

Health officer meets with commission to get framework for health order

HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.

That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.

“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.

The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.

“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”

Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.

The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.

Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.

“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”

Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.

Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.

Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.

“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”

The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.

There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.

Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.

Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.

Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.

Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.

For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.

“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”

It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.

Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.

“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”

Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.

Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.

“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590661594503.png" alt="The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University" />
 <figcaption>The U.S. is also approaching 1.7 million cases of the coronavirus-Image courtesy John Hopkins University</figcaption>
 </figure>HARTFORD, Conn. (AP) — The U.S. surpassed a jarring milestone Wednesday in the coronavirus pandemic: 100,000 deaths.That number is the best estimate and most assuredly an undercount. But it represents the stark reality that more&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/2e242bc89a073d6724a7f158e4c9d40d">Americans have died&nbsp;</a>from the virus than from the Vietnam and Korean wars combined.“It’s a striking reminder of how dangerous this virus can be,” said Josh Michaud, associate director of global health policy with the Kaiser Family Foundation in Washington.The once-unthinkable toll appears to be just the beginning of untold misery in the months ahead as Las Vegas casinos and Walt Disney World make plans to reopen, crowds of unmasked Americans swarm beaches and public health officials predict a resurgence by fall.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1586814827197.png" alt="Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Anthony Fauci during a Coronavirus Task Force briefing -image courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious disease expert, issued a stern warning after watching video of Memorial Day crowds gathered at a pool party in Missouri.“We have a situation in which you see that type of crowding with no mask and people interacting. That’s not prudent, and that’s inviting a situation that could get out of control,” he said during an interview Wednesday on CNN. “Don’t start leapfrogging some of the recommendations in the guidelines because that’s really tempting fate and asking for trouble.”Worldwide, the virus has infected more than 5.6 million people and killed over 350,000, with the U.S. having the most confirmed cases and deaths by far, according to a tally by Johns Hopkins University. Europe has recorded about 170,000 deaths, while the&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/f768f47203908b834e245fbf7f0b3ccc">U.S. reached more than 100,000</a>&nbsp;in less than four months.The true death toll from the virus, which emerged in China late last year and was first reported in the U.S. in January, is widely believed to be significantly higher, with experts saying many victims died of COVID-19 without ever being tested for it.Early on, President Donald Trump downplayed the severity of the coronavirus, likening it to the flu, and predicted the U.S. wouldn’t reach 100,000 deaths.“I think we’ll be substantially under that number,” Trump said on April 10. Ten days later, he said, “We’re going toward 50- or 60,000 people.” Ten days after that: “We’re probably heading to 60,000, 70,000.”Critics have said deaths spiked because Trump was slow to respond, but he has contended on Twitter that it could have been 20 times higher without his actions. He has urged states to reopen their economies after months of stay-at-home restrictions.Las Vegas casinos can welcome tourists again on June 4. SeaWorld and Walt Disney World plan to reopen to limited numbers of tourists in Orlando, Florida, in June and July. And people who have been cooped up indoors began venturing outside in droves, often without practicing social distancing or wearing masks.Kelly Hove, 79, of Twin Falls, Idaho, an internationally known pianist, died at a nursing home on April 12 of complications from COVID-19 after a long battle with dementia. Her sister-in-law Jan Hove fears that more will die as states start lifting restrictions.“I think going back too soon is going to cause more deaths, so I’m incredibly concerned,” she said. “And I don’t think we have adequate leadership. ... It’s an absolute joke, from the White House down.”The virus exacted an especially vicious toll on Trump’s hometown of New York City and its surrounding suburbs, killing more than 21,000. At the peak, hundreds of people were dying per day in New York City, and hospitals, ambulances and first responders were inundated with patients.There is no vaccine or treatment for COVID-19, though several emergency treatments are being used after showing some promise in preliminary testing.Worldwide, about a dozen vaccine candidates are starting to be tested or getting close to it. Health officials have said studies of a potential vaccine might be done by late this year or early next year.Only half of Americans said they would be&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dacdc8bc428dd4df6511bfa259cfec44">willing to get vaccinated</a>&nbsp;if scientists are successful in developing a vaccine, according to a poll released Wednesday from The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.For most, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.Among the 100,000 fatalities was 74-year-old Michael Ganci of Newington, Connecticut, who died March 21. He was a public school teacher, a grandfather and father of four, and a 4th-degree belt Sensei in Kyokushin karate.Ganci, who had a compromised immune system, died at a hospital in Hartford three days after showing symptoms. His family was not allowed to be with him and tried to text and talk with him on his cellphone during his final days. His wife of 48 years also tested positive for COVID-19 and had to grieve alone.For their daughter, 45-year-old Joanna Ganci of Beverly, Massachusetts, the milestone is important to understand the scope of the virus.“But at the same time, I think the danger of counting, the danger of statistics, is that it just minimizes the human element,” she said. “It’s like, what number is going to make an impact for people who haven’t been touched by it?”It’s not even clear when the coronavirus turned deadly in the United States. Initially, it was believed the first U.S. deaths from the virus were in late February in a Seattle suburb. But by mid-April, it was determined that two people with the coronavirus died in California as many as three weeks earlier.Comparing countries is tricky, given varying levels of testing and that some coronavirus deaths can be missed. According to figures tracked by Johns Hopkins University, the death rate per 100,000 people is lower in the U.S. than in Italy, France and Spain but higher than in Germany, China, South Korea, Singapore, Japan, New Zealand and Australia.“The experience of other countries shows that death at that scale was preventable,” said Michaud of the Kaiser Family Foundation. “To some extent, the United States suffers from having a slow start and inconsistent approach. We might have seen a different trajectory if different policies were put into place earlier and more forcefully.”Countries with low death rates suppressed the virus “through lots of testing, contact tracing and policies to support isolation and quarantine of people at risk,” Michaud said.Dr. Wafaa El-Sadr, director of ICAP, a global health center at Columbia University, called the U.S. death rate shocking.“It reflects the fact that we have neglected basic fundamentals for health,” El-Sadr said. “So, now we are in this shameful situation. It is the most vulnerable people in our midst — the elderly, the poor, members of racial/ethnic minority groups — who are the ones disproportionately getting sick and dying.”

US death toll from coronavirus surges past 100,000 people


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County reopening plan will be announced Wednesday.

In a release Tuesday night, Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti announced that, "robust and thoughtful discussions are ongoing toward the pursuit of sensible and informed decision making in moving Reno County onward. The Reno County Board of Health, Reno County Economic Recovery Task Force, and associated stakeholder groups therein are offering their time, thoughts, and expertise in ensuring Reno County residents are safe, secure, and economically active."

The restrictions proposed by the Task Force prior to Kelly's announcement appeared to move at a faster pace than her original Ad Astra reopening plan. No executive orders restricting business or movement from the state level are in effect from 12:01 a.m. Wednesday until new guidance from the county level is released.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589472383275.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — The Reno County reopening plan will be announced Wednesday.In a release Tuesday night, Reno County Health Officer Nick Baldetti announced that, "robust and thoughtful discussions are ongoing toward the pursuit of sensible and informed decision making in moving Reno County onward. The Reno County Board of Health, Reno County Economic Recovery Task Force, and associated stakeholder groups therein are offering their time, thoughts, and expertise in ensuring Reno County residents are safe, secure, and economically active."The restrictions proposed by the Task Force prior to Kelly's announcement appeared to move at a faster pace than her original Ad Astra reopening plan. No executive orders restricting business or movement from the state level are in effect from 12:01 a.m. Wednesday until new guidance from the county level is released.

Local plan to be announced Wednesday

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced that all surgeries and other types of care have resumed.

The hospital says that, even though the COVID-19 crisis continues, members of the community should not be afraid to seek care when it is needed. Those who have chronic illnesses should make an appointment as soon as possible as required timely care is needed to avoid complications.

It has been reported that some patients are hesitant to seek care out of fear their presence might overwhelm and overburden the health care system. Please be assured Hutch Regional is sufficiently staffed and prepared 24/7 to treat all types of patient care.

New visitation guidelines went into effect last week at Hutch Regional. Upon admission, patients are asked to designate one person as a visitor during their hospitalization. No visitors are allowed in hospital units caring for COVID-19 patients or the Emergency Department.

---Wear a Hutch Regional “visitor badge” at all times

---Adhere to visiting hours (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.)

---Comply with isolation precautions throughout the hospital

The Hutch Regional cafeteria will remain closed to visitors until further notice.

Hutch Regional and its entities, and in particular Horizons Mental Health Center and Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, will continue to use telehealth and telemedicine to deliver care when appropriate.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579797775553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced that all surgeries and other types of care have resumed.The hospital says that, even though the COVID-19 crisis continues, members of the community should not be afraid to seek care when it is needed. Those who have chronic illnesses should make an appointment as soon as possible as required timely care is needed to avoid complications.It has been reported that some patients are hesitant to seek care out of fear their presence might overwhelm and overburden the health care system. Please be assured Hutch Regional is sufficiently staffed and prepared 24/7 to treat all types of patient care.New visitation guidelines went into effect last week at Hutch Regional. Upon admission, patients are asked to designate one person as a visitor during their hospitalization. No visitors are allowed in hospital units caring for COVID-19 patients or the Emergency Department.Visitor guidelines include:---Must be at least 18 years of age---Pass a daily screening test---Wear a Hutch Regional “visitor badge” at all times---Adhere to visiting hours (7 a.m. to 5 p.m.)---Wear a mask at all times---Comply with isolation precautions throughout the hospitalThe Hutch Regional cafeteria will remain closed to visitors until further notice.Hutch Regional and its entities, and in particular Horizons Mental Health Center and Hospice &amp; HomeCare of Reno County, will continue to use telehealth and telemedicine to deliver care when appropriate.

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center now providing all services


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
If Reno County is allowed to make its own policy with regard to mass gatherings, the local health officer says it will be much less stringent than what is currently allowed by the state.

"The plan that was formulated with the Economic Recovery Task Force, we would essentially be in phase two, which would have mass gatherings up to 125 people would be allowed," Nick Baldetti said Tuesday. "Organizers of mass gatherings of more than 125 but less than 250 must provide a plan showing how they would ensure safe conditions."

That doesn't mean local policymakers won't take another look at the situation once their hands are free, or that things would go back to normal as defined before the pandemic.

"I would like to confer with the Economic Recovery Task Force and the Board of Health, as well," Baldetti said. "The reality is that, it is really predicated on the individual. There's an individual accountability as a Reno County constituent to continue to practice social distancing guidelines, mask use, wearing a mask in public, proper hygiene and respiratory etiquette."

It's ultimately about personal responsibility when it comes to slowing the spread.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
If Reno County is allowed to make its own policy with regard to mass gatherings, the local health officer says it will be much less stringent than what is currently allowed by the state."The plan that was formulated with the Economic Recovery Task Force, we would essentially be in phase two, which would have mass gatherings up to 125 people would be allowed," Nick Baldetti said Tuesday. "Organizers of mass gatherings of more than 125 but less than 250 must provide a plan showing how they would ensure safe conditions."That doesn't mean local policymakers won't take another look at the situation once their hands are free, or that things would go back to normal as defined before the pandemic."I would like to confer with the Economic Recovery Task Force and the Board of Health, as well," Baldetti said. "The reality is that, it is really predicated on the individual. There's an individual accountability as a Reno County constituent to continue to practice social distancing guidelines, mask use, wearing a mask in public, proper hygiene and respiratory etiquette."It's ultimately about personal responsibility when it comes to slowing the spread.

Baldetti: If local level is allowed to set policy, it will be less restrictive

In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Evergy announced in March that it will not disconnect electric service for non-payment and will waive late fees for residential and small business customers. Evergy announced then a flexible payment plan that allows customers, including those who have been disconnected, to enter a 12-month payment plan toward their past-due balance. The suspension of disconnects is extended through July 15. Evergy will waive late fees and offer the payment arrangement through Dec. 31.

Evergy encourages customers to track and make payments toward their energy usage during this time to avoid balances that are difficult to pay later. For more information about resources to help with bills:

Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance funds are available, but application windows are set to close on May 29. Evergy doesn’t administer these programs, but information about them is available at <a href="https://www.evergy.com/landing/COVID-19?utm_campaign=covid19">evergy.com/COVID19.</a>

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1583764471531.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>In response to the coronavirus pandemic, Evergy announced in March that it will not disconnect electric service for non-payment and will waive late fees for residential and small business customers. Evergy announced then a flexible payment plan that allows customers, including those who have been disconnected, to enter a 12-month payment plan toward their past-due balance. The suspension of disconnects is extended through July 15. Evergy will waive late fees and offer the payment arrangement through Dec. 31.Evergy encourages customers to track and make payments toward their energy usage during this time to avoid balances that are difficult to pay later. For more information about resources to help with bills:Federal Low Income Home Energy Assistance funds are available, but application windows are set to close on May 29. Evergy doesn’t administer these programs, but information about them is available at <a href="https://www.evergy.com/landing/COVID-19?utm_campaign=covid19">evergy.com/COVID19.</a>

Evergy: Disconnect suspension extended through July 15

Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall urges continued vigilance in personal behavior, even as the economy in Kansas continues to reopen.

"Let's see where we are two weeks from now," Marshall said. "Keep doing what we've been doing. Do the social distancing. Wash your hands regularly. This will be about fundamentals, blocking and tackling, doing the simple things correctly."

Businesses are taking the proper precautions, but it's those common daily public interactions when you're not at home where you have to pay the most attention.

"You're probably not going to catch the coronavirus at work," Marshall said. "Where you're going to catch it is when you stop and get a cup of coffee at the gas station. Let's keep on our Ps and Qs here."

Even if you do get sick, though, coronavirus is not often fatal.

"If you're under the age of sixty and you're healthy, I would think the morbidity, the mortality from the corona is probably about the same as the seasonal flu," Marshall said. "We don't close down the schools over that. I think the mortality for children approaches zero."

This is all under the assumption that we continue the preventative measures in terms of infection control that have been started at the beginning of the onset of the pandemic with regard to hygiene.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584054346770.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall urges continued vigilance in personal behavior, even as the economy in Kansas continues to reopen."Let's see where we are two weeks from now," Marshall said. "Keep doing what we've been doing. Do the social distancing. Wash your hands regularly. This will be about fundamentals, blocking and tackling, doing the simple things correctly."Businesses are taking the proper precautions, but it's those common daily public interactions when you're not at home where you have to pay the most attention."You're probably not going to catch the coronavirus at work," Marshall said. "Where you're going to catch it is when you stop and get a cup of coffee at the gas station. Let's keep on our Ps and Qs here."Even if you do get sick, though, coronavirus is not often fatal."If you're under the age of sixty and you're healthy, I would think the morbidity, the mortality from the corona is probably about the same as the seasonal flu," Marshall said. "We don't close down the schools over that. I think the mortality for children approaches zero."This is all under the assumption that we continue the preventative measures in terms of infection control that have been started at the beginning of the onset of the pandemic with regard to hygiene.

Marshall: Watch the next couple of weeks, keep social distancing, washing hands

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending voluntary 14-day self-quarantine for those Kansans who traveled to Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, over the Memorial Day weekend and did not use protective measures, such as social distancing and face masks.&nbsp;

Over the holiday weekend, large crowds were reported at the Lake of the Ozarks with no protective practices being followed.

“The reckless behavior displayed during this weekend risks setting our community back substantially for the progress we’ve already made in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “If you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks over the weekend, we urge you to act responsibly and self-quarantine to protect your neighbors, co-workers and family.”

While Lake of the Ozarks is not currently on the mandated travel list, KDHE urges those who traveled over the Memorial Day weekend to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return to Kansas.

The areas on the mandated travel advisory include

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic didn't stop people from packing the central Missouri vacation hot spot of the Lake of the Ozarks for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, despite state social distancing orders.

Crowds flooded some bars and restaurants at the Lake of the Ozarks, which attracts Missouri residents, as well as people in surrounding states, including Illinois, Kansas, Arkansas and Iowa.

One video&nbsp;posted on social media shows a crammed pool where people lounged close together without masks.

Camden County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Chris Twitchell on Sunday said the typically crowded resort region has been even busier than normal this year. He said people with second houses on the lake moved in a few months ago to quarantine there, plus Memorial Day vacationers too worried to travel by airplane flocked to the mid-Missouri region instead.

“Our normal holiday weekend without all this COVID is ridiculously crazy,” Twitchell said. “So add COVID to it and all the people influxing down here to get away from everywhere else, (and) it just adds more to it. It’s a perfect storm.”

Missouri’s statewide stay-at-home order expired earlier this month, but an order from the state health director requires 6-foot social distancing until at least the end of May.

The&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/pdf/economic-reopening.pdf">order</a>&nbsp;leaves it up to local and state health officials to enforce social distancing.

It’s unclear what steps Lake of the Ozarks-area health officials are taking to enforce that order. Associated Press requests for comment left with local health departments were not immediately returned Sunday.

Twitchell said the Camden County Sheriff's Department is struggling to keep up with an increase of reported crime because of the surge of people. He said there's no way the department has enough deputies to enforce social distancing on top of that.

“We’ve had such an influx of people down here at the lake, we’re just overwhelmed,” he said.

Since the pandemic first hit Missouri, the state health department has reported 38 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Camden County and four in Miller County, which cover some of the Lake of the Ozarks area.

In total, the health department reported that the virus has sickened at least 11,988 people, up 236 cases compared to what was reported Saturday. The confirmed death toll is 681, up from 676 reported deaths Saturday.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590412088066.png" alt="Snapchat video of the crowds at Lake of the Ozarks" />
 <figcaption>Snapchat video of the crowds at Lake of the Ozarks</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending voluntary 14-day self-quarantine for those Kansans who traveled to Lake of the Ozarks, Missouri, over the Memorial Day weekend and did not use protective measures, such as social distancing and face masks.&nbsp;Over the holiday weekend, large crowds were reported at the Lake of the Ozarks with no protective practices being followed.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1590504469923.png" alt="Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary" />
 <figcaption>Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary</figcaption>
 </figure>“The reckless behavior displayed during this weekend risks setting our community back substantially for the progress we’ve already made in slowing the spread of COVID-19,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “If you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks over the weekend, we urge you to act responsibly and self-quarantine to protect your neighbors, co-workers and family.”While Lake of the Ozarks is not currently on the mandated travel list, KDHE urges those who traveled over the Memorial Day weekend to self-quarantine for 14 days upon return to Kansas.The areas on the mandated travel advisory include<ol>
 <li>Connecticut</li><li>Illinois</li><li>Maryland</li><li>Massachusetts</li><li>Rhode Island</li><li>New Jersey</li><li>New York</li><li>Been on a cruise ship or river cruise</li><li>Traveled internationally</li>
 </ol>-------COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — The coronavirus pandemic didn't stop people from packing the central Missouri vacation hot spot of the Lake of the Ozarks for the Memorial Day holiday weekend, despite state social distancing orders.Crowds flooded some bars and restaurants at the Lake of the Ozarks, which attracts Missouri residents, as well as people in surrounding states, including Illinois, Kansas, Arkansas and Iowa.One video&nbsp;posted on social media shows a crammed pool where people lounged close together without masks.Camden County Sheriff’s Department Capt. Chris Twitchell on Sunday said the typically crowded resort region has been even busier than normal this year. He said people with second houses on the lake moved in a few months ago to quarantine there, plus Memorial Day vacationers too worried to travel by airplane flocked to the mid-Missouri region instead.“Our normal holiday weekend without all this COVID is ridiculously crazy,” Twitchell said. “So add COVID to it and all the people influxing down here to get away from everywhere else, (and) it just adds more to it. It’s a perfect storm.”Missouri’s statewide stay-at-home order expired earlier this month, but an order from the state health director requires 6-foot social distancing until at least the end of May.The&nbsp;<a href="https://health.mo.gov/living/healthcondiseases/communicable/novel-coronavirus/pdf/economic-reopening.pdf">order</a>&nbsp;leaves it up to local and state health officials to enforce social distancing.It’s unclear what steps Lake of the Ozarks-area health officials are taking to enforce that order. Associated Press requests for comment left with local health departments were not immediately returned Sunday.Twitchell said the Camden County Sheriff's Department is struggling to keep up with an increase of reported crime because of the surge of people. He said there's no way the department has enough deputies to enforce social distancing on top of that.“We’ve had such an influx of people down here at the lake, we’re just overwhelmed,” he said.Since the pandemic first hit Missouri, the state health department has reported 38 confirmed COVID-19 cases in Camden County and four in Miller County, which cover some of the Lake of the Ozarks area.In total, the health department reported that the virus has sickened at least 11,988 people, up 236 cases compared to what was reported Saturday. The confirmed death toll is 681, up from 676 reported deaths Saturday.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia, and death.

KDHE urges self-quarantine if you traveled to Lake of the Ozarks


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council approved application for a CDBG-CV grant designed to help small businesses during a special meeting Tuesday morning.

"It is vitally important that we get this application submitted this week," said city planner Ryan Hvitlok. "We're working with SCKEDD, who is the one who has really been the expert on this and has worked all weekend, really on getting this application ready. If awarded, we anticipate a short 14 to 21 day city application window, because really we want to get these funds in the hands of these businesses."

If awarded, there will be a pool of $285,000 available to a combination of businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The city has applied for $300,000 in grant money. $15,000 of that will go to SCKEDD for administration, because the City does not have anyone trained to do the administration themselves, and the state hasn't offered a class that an employee could go to in a couple of years to do that. SCKEDD was the low bidder in a competitive bid process that closed last week.

"The Chamber did do a survey, they came up with about 30 total potential businesses that could take advantage of this," Hvitlok said. Nine of those are in the really small, the one to five employees, 21 would be in the six to 50 employees. That equates to about 398 low to medium income jobs, some real impact here in our community."

No city matching funds are required. Because of the amount of funds available the city plans to award grants of $10,000 to the businesses with five employees or under and $20,000 to those with six to 50 employees on a first come, first served basis until funds are exhausted. Those applications would go before a board first for approval before coming to the City Council. 

"They will have to maintain some records and be open that, if the Department of Commerce decides that they want to do a visit and an audit, that paperwork we would need in hand," Hvitlok said. "That's what SCKEDD, if they are awarded, would help us with."

The City Council would then have final approval of the awardees at a future meeting.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1585943691499.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The Hutchinson City Council approved application for a CDBG-CV grant designed to help small businesses during a special meeting Tuesday morning."It is vitally important that we get this application submitted this week," said city planner Ryan Hvitlok. "We're working with SCKEDD, who is the one who has really been the expert on this and has worked all weekend, really on getting this application ready. If awarded, we anticipate a short 14 to 21 day city application window, because really we want to get these funds in the hands of these businesses."If awarded, there will be a pool of $285,000 available to a combination of businesses with 50 or fewer employees. The city has applied for $300,000 in grant money. $15,000 of that will go to SCKEDD for administration, because the City does not have anyone trained to do the administration themselves, and the state hasn't offered a class that an employee could go to in a couple of years to do that. SCKEDD was the low bidder in a competitive bid process that closed last week."The Chamber did do a survey, they came up with about 30 total potential businesses that could take advantage of this," Hvitlok said. Nine of those are in the really small, the one to five employees, 21 would be in the six to 50 employees. That equates to about 398 low to medium income jobs, some real impact here in our community."No city matching funds are required. Because of the amount of funds available the city plans to award grants of $10,000 to the businesses with five employees or under and $20,000 to those with six to 50 employees on a first come, first served basis until funds are exhausted. Those applications would go before a board first for approval before coming to the City Council. "They will have to maintain some records and be open that, if the Department of Commerce decides that they want to do a visit and an audit, that paperwork we would need in hand," Hvitlok said. "That's what SCKEDD, if they are awarded, would help us with."The City Council would then have final approval of the awardees at a future meeting.

City Council approves applying for CDBG-CV grant Tuesday, SCKEDD to administrate


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The self-administered COVID-19 nasal swab test provided by WalMart and eTrueNorth that is performed by the individual in their vehicle has moved to the Hutchinson Walmart parking lot at 1905 East 17th starting today. 

Those interested in being tested need to visit www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to see if eligible for testing and to make an appointment. To be tested, individuals must have a scheduled appointment and be present in a vehicle.

The regular schedule will Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. The site is open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and will resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.

None of the self-administered tests done in Reno County thus far have come back positive. Reno County Health Department director Nick Baldetti recommends that residents use their primary care provider to be tested, as those tests are administered by medical professionals.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The self-administered COVID-19 nasal swab test provided by WalMart and eTrueNorth that is performed by the individual in their vehicle has moved to the Hutchinson Walmart parking lot at 1905 East 17th starting today. Those interested in being tested need to visit www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to see if eligible for testing and to make an appointment. To be tested, individuals must have a scheduled appointment and be present in a vehicle.The regular schedule will Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. The site is open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and will resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.None of the self-administered tests done in Reno County thus far have come back positive. Reno County Health Department director Nick Baldetti recommends that residents use their primary care provider to be tested, as those tests are administered by medical professionals.

Self-administered test at Walmart parking lot today and MWF going forward


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A state grant that Hutchinson is going for could help as many as 30 businesses in the city.

According to the grant application for the CDBG-CV grant that will have a public hearing Tuesday morning in a special meeting&nbsp; at 9 a.m. of the Hutchinson City Council, nine businesses that would be eligible have fewer than five employees and 21 have between 6 and 50 employees.

Surveyed businesses reported anywhere from a 30% to an 80% drop in sales since March. One example is Metropolitan Coffee, who had to temporarily close both of their locations and lay off all staff.

Also, Wifco steel products is looking at potentially reducing their workforce by 40 employees once PPP funds are exhausted, as sales and demand have not increased.

The application says, "These business owners are out of options and need funding assistance to continue to operate, as many are without other options. Without the help of CDBG-CV many of these business owners may have to close their doors for good."

The City plans to distribute CDBG-CV grant funds via an application process with applications based on first come/first served. If the number of applications exceeds the amount of funds available, those who did not get federal money and those who have the most low income employees will come first.

The initial application deadline will have a timeline of 14 to 21 days to award grants to businesses in a timely manner, should the grant be awarded.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1581765999033.jpeg" alt="" />
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
A state grant that Hutchinson is going for could help as many as 30 businesses in the city.According to the grant application for the CDBG-CV grant that will have a public hearing Tuesday morning in a special meeting&nbsp; at 9 a.m. of the Hutchinson City Council, nine businesses that would be eligible have fewer than five employees and 21 have between 6 and 50 employees.Surveyed businesses reported anywhere from a 30% to an 80% drop in sales since March. One example is Metropolitan Coffee, who had to temporarily close both of their locations and lay off all staff.Also, Wifco steel products is looking at potentially reducing their workforce by 40 employees once PPP funds are exhausted, as sales and demand have not increased.The application says, "These business owners are out of options and need funding assistance to continue to operate, as many are without other options. Without the help of CDBG-CV many of these business owners may have to close their doors for good."The City plans to distribute CDBG-CV grant funds via an application process with applications based on first come/first served. If the number of applications exceeds the amount of funds available, those who did not get federal money and those who have the most low income employees will come first.The initial application deadline will have a timeline of 14 to 21 days to award grants to businesses in a timely manner, should the grant be awarded.

State grant could help up to 30 businesses, if not awarded, some will close


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —According to the Monday situation report from the Reno County Health Department, there is only one active case of COVID-19 in the county, a Reno County correctional facility inmate tested last week. All people that have come in contact with that person have been tested and come back negative. 

As of Monday, 1261 people in the county have been tested, with just 43 positive results and 1218 negatives. The positive test rate is at 3.41%. Taking out the Walmart tests, where there have been no positives thus far, the positive test rate is 3.88%. Officially, 2.01% of the county's population has been tested.

The next update from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will come on Wednesday.

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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —According to the Monday situation report from the Reno County Health Department, there is only one active case of COVID-19 in the county, a Reno County correctional facility inmate tested last week. All people that have come in contact with that person have been tested and come back negative. As of Monday, 1261 people in the county have been tested, with just 43 positive results and 1218 negatives. The positive test rate is at 3.41%. Taking out the Walmart tests, where there have been no positives thus far, the positive test rate is 3.88%. Officially, 2.01% of the county's population has been tested.The next update from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment will come on Wednesday.

Reno County inmate remains only case in county

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced that, starting Tuesday, it will be reopening the north gyms at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.&nbsp;

Residents may enjoy free community walking hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals are asked to practice safe social distancing.

Hutch Rec group fitness classes also start May 26. Customers interested in classes may download the MINDBODY app and search “Hutch Rec” for a full schedule of classes and to reserve their spots. Classes will be limited to no more than 15 participants.

Pickleball drop-in hours start Wednesday, May 27, and will be offered weekly from Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Drop-in fees are $2 a person and participants must bring their own pickleball equipment. Individuals are asked to practice safe social distancing.

Additional information about the Hutch Rec gyms at the Hutchinson Sports Arena can be found on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchsportsarena/">Hutchinson Sports Arena Facebook page</a> and at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/hutch-rec-facilities/sportsarena/">hutchrec.com</a>.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584563985382.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutch Rec announced that, starting Tuesday, it will be reopening the north gyms at the Hutchinson Sports Arena.&nbsp;Residents may enjoy free community walking hours from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Individuals are asked to practice safe social distancing.Hutch Rec group fitness classes also start May 26. Customers interested in classes may download the MINDBODY app and search “Hutch Rec” for a full schedule of classes and to reserve their spots. Classes will be limited to no more than 15 participants.Pickleball drop-in hours start Wednesday, May 27, and will be offered weekly from Monday through Friday, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Drop-in fees are $2 a person and participants must bring their own pickleball equipment. Individuals are asked to practice safe social distancing.Additional information about the Hutch Rec gyms at the Hutchinson Sports Arena can be found on the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/hutchsportsarena/">Hutchinson Sports Arena Facebook page</a> and at <a href="https://www.hutchrec.com/hutch-rec-facilities/sportsarena/">hutchrec.com</a>.&nbsp;

Hutch Rec to open arena gyms on Tuesday

TOPEKA —The Department for Children and Families in collaboration with the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) announced this week the creation of the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program (P-EBT). The program will help families who have been impacted by school closures due to COVID-19 to purchase food for their children.

“We know the pandemic has made it difficult for families to access food, especially if they relied on school meals,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Thanks to the partnership between DCF and KSDE the state will be able to automatically enroll most families into the P-EBT program, so they receive their benefit as quickly as possible.”

“Food insecurity should be the last thing our Kansas children should have to face right now,” Cheryl Johnson KSDE director of child nutrition and wellness said. “P-EBT provides temporary funding to address emergency food needs and avert financial hardship for families affected by the pandemic. I am thankful that through this partnership, Kansas is able to put healthy food on the table for Kansas children.”

P-EBT provides a one-time benefit of up to $291 on a Kansas Benefits Card to Kansas families whose children between the age of 5 to 18 would receive free or reduced-price meals at participating schools. There is no application process to receive the P-EBT benefit.

DCF will issue the benefit in phases. Those Kansas families who currently receive free or reduced-price meals and are enrolled in the food assistance or TANF programs should begin to receive their benefit later this week.

The second phase also will include an automatic match with those families on free or reduced-price meals and who also are receiving Medicaid or child care assistance.

The final phase will include families that need to provide additional information to receive the benefit. Those families will receive access to a parent portal to register for the program beginning June 5. Parents should receive information from their school district on how to access the parent portal.

“Most families should expect to see their benefit in the next two weeks,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “If families have not yet received information about P-EBT, I encourage them to reach out to their local school district.”

In order to provide additional information about P-EBT and to answer questions, DCF is hosting a virtual town hall meeting tomorrow from 11 a.m. to noon.

Use this link to join:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall</a>

TOPEKA —The Department for Children and Families in collaboration with the Kansas State Department of Education (KSDE) announced this week the creation of the Pandemic Electronic Benefit Program (P-EBT). The program will help families who have been impacted by school closures due to COVID-19 to purchase food for their children.“We know the pandemic has made it difficult for families to access food, especially if they relied on school meals,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “Thanks to the partnership between DCF and KSDE the state will be able to automatically enroll most families into the P-EBT program, so they receive their benefit as quickly as possible.”“Food insecurity should be the last thing our Kansas children should have to face right now,” Cheryl Johnson KSDE director of child nutrition and wellness said. “P-EBT provides temporary funding to address emergency food needs and avert financial hardship for families affected by the pandemic. I am thankful that through this partnership, Kansas is able to put healthy food on the table for Kansas children.”P-EBT provides a one-time benefit of up to $291 on a Kansas Benefits Card to Kansas families whose children between the age of 5 to 18 would receive free or reduced-price meals at participating schools. There is no application process to receive the P-EBT benefit.DCF will issue the benefit in phases. Those Kansas families who currently receive free or reduced-price meals and are enrolled in the food assistance or TANF programs should begin to receive their benefit later this week.The second phase also will include an automatic match with those families on free or reduced-price meals and who also are receiving Medicaid or child care assistance.The final phase will include families that need to provide additional information to receive the benefit. Those families will receive access to a parent portal to register for the program beginning June 5. Parents should receive information from their school district on how to access the parent portal.“Most families should expect to see their benefit in the next two weeks,” DCF Secretary Laura Howard said. “If families have not yet received information about P-EBT, I encourage them to reach out to their local school district.”In order to provide additional information about P-EBT and to answer questions, DCF is hosting a virtual town hall meeting tomorrow from 11 a.m. to noon.Virtual P-EBT Town HallThursday, May 21 from 11 a.m. to noon.Use this link to join:&nbsp;<a href="https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall" target="_blank">https://bit.ly/KansasP-EBTTownHall</a>

Kan. families receive additional food support through Pandemic EBT program


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Beginning next week, there are changes to the drive-thru test site locations and hours of operation in El Dorado, Hutchinson and Salina. The drive-thru testing sites are now available to anyone who meets CDC and state and local guidelines on who should be tested, including first responders, health care providers and others with symptoms of COVID-19 and those in high risk groups without symptoms. Those interested in being tested need to visit www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to see if eligible for testing and to make an appointment. To be tested, individuals must have a scheduled appointment and be present in a vehicle.

The testing sites are supported by Walmart, eTrueNorth and state and local officials. As of May 22, Walmart has 180 active test sites in 27 states that have tested more than 49,000 people. The sites use a self-administered nasal swab test with results from the test being received within three to five business days.

“The self-swab protocol for specimen collection is the FDA-approved, standard-of-care used widely across the country,” said Coral May, eTrueNorth’s CEO. “We have implemented a process whereby the entire self-swab is supervised by a pharmacist. While the individual is inside their vehicle, the pharmacist communicates with the individual regarding angle and positioning of the swab in the nose via both verbal instructions and step-by-step flash card. The key to the self-administrated nasal swab test is that the individual is being instructed, supervised and observed by a pharmacist.”

Updated Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.

Note: The site will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.

New Location:  El Dorado Walmart Parking Lot: 301 S Village Road, El Dorado KS 67042

New Location:  Hutchinson Walmart Parking Lot: 1905 E 17th Avenue, Hutchinson KS 67501

New Location:  Salina Walmart Parking Lot: 2900 S 9th Street, Salina KS 67401

This is a self-administered nasal swab test that is performed by the individual is in their vehicle.

A trained pharmacist observes the self-administration of the specimen collection to ensure the sample is taken correctly, including counting out loud so the individual can hear to ensure the swab is in contact with nasal passage long enough to collect an appropriate sample.

The nasal-swab specimen collection is the standard of care for COVID-19 testing across the country.

Once specimens are collected at the drive-through testing sites, they are shipped to certified laboratories across the country for analysis.

The specimens collected at these drive-through sites are analyzed on the gold standard of laboratory testing instruments.

The testing method (RT-PCR) is approved by the U.S. Department of Health &amp; Human Services and is used nationally. In short, the analysis is performed by high quality laboratories, and the results are accurate.

The sites are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., weather permitting.

NOTE:  The sites will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume their regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.

Testing is for adults who meet CDC and state and local guidelines on who should be tested, including first responders, health care providers and others with symptoms of COVID-19 and those in high risk groups without symptoms.

The testing site will require an appointment through eTrueNorth’s online portal at www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com, or by calling the toll-free number at 800-635-8611.

Once on site, those being tested will need to wear a mask and stay in their cars for verification of eligibility criteria, ID check and self-administered test. For the safety of all those on-site, the test site is not available to those who walk up. 

The site will use a self-administered nasal swab test that will allow those being tested to swab their own nose onsite while in their vehicles, observed by a trained Walmart pharmacist to ensure the sample is taken correctly, and drop the sealed sample into a container on their way out of the drive-thru site.

eTrueNorth will handle processing test samples and communicating results to those tested and applicable departments of health.

The sites will be staffed by Walmart pharmacists and associates.

While individuals who are tested are awaiting results, please follow CDC guidelines and take steps to help prevent the virus from spreading to people in your home and community.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Beginning next week, there are changes to the drive-thru test site locations and hours of operation in El Dorado, Hutchinson and Salina. The drive-thru testing sites are now available to anyone who meets CDC and state and local guidelines on who should be tested, including first responders, health care providers and others with symptoms of COVID-19 and those in high risk groups without symptoms. Those interested in being tested need to visit www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to see if eligible for testing and to make an appointment. To be tested, individuals must have a scheduled appointment and be present in a vehicle.The testing sites are supported by Walmart, eTrueNorth and state and local officials. As of May 22, Walmart has 180 active test sites in 27 states that have tested more than 49,000 people. The sites use a self-administered nasal swab test with results from the test being received within three to five business days.“The self-swab protocol for specimen collection is the FDA-approved, standard-of-care used widely across the country,” said Coral May, eTrueNorth’s CEO. “We have implemented a process whereby the entire self-swab is supervised by a pharmacist. While the individual is inside their vehicle, the pharmacist communicates with the individual regarding angle and positioning of the swab in the nose via both verbal instructions and step-by-step flash card. The key to the self-administrated nasal swab test is that the individual is being instructed, supervised and observed by a pharmacist.”UPDATED COVID-19 Testing:El Dorado:Updated Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.Note: The site will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.New Location: El Dorado Walmart Parking Lot: 301 S Village Road, El Dorado KS 67042Hutchinson:Updated Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.Note: The site will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.New Location: Hutchinson Walmart Parking Lot: 1905 E 17th Avenue, Hutchinson KS 67501Salina:Updated Schedule: Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly, 7 a.m. – 9 a.m.Note: The site will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume its regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.New Location: Salina Walmart Parking Lot: 2900 S 9th Street, Salina KS 67401TESTING OVERVIEW:This is a self-administered nasal swab test that is performed by the individual is in their vehicle.A trained pharmacist observes the self-administration of the specimen collection to ensure the sample is taken correctly, including counting out loud so the individual can hear to ensure the swab is in contact with nasal passage long enough to collect an appropriate sample.The nasal-swab specimen collection is the standard of care for COVID-19 testing across the country.Once specimens are collected at the drive-through testing sites, they are shipped to certified laboratories across the country for analysis.The specimens collected at these drive-through sites are analyzed on the gold standard of laboratory testing instruments.The testing method (RT-PCR) is approved by the U.S. Department of Health &amp; Human Services and is used nationally. In short, the analysis is performed by high quality laboratories, and the results are accurate.Additional testing information:The sites are open Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays weekly from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m., weather permitting.NOTE: The sites will be closed for Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, but will open Tuesday, May 26, from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and resume their regular schedule on Wednesday, May 27.Testing is for adults who meet CDC and state and local guidelines on who should be tested, including first responders, health care providers and others with symptoms of COVID-19 and those in high risk groups without symptoms.Individuals must be 18 years and older.The testing site will require an appointment through eTrueNorth’s online portal at www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com, or by calling the toll-free number at 800-635-8611.Once on site, those being tested will need to wear a mask and stay in their cars for verification of eligibility criteria, ID check and self-administered test. For the safety of all those on-site, the test site is not available to those who walk up. The site will use a self-administered nasal swab test that will allow those being tested to swab their own nose onsite while in their vehicles, observed by a trained Walmart pharmacist to ensure the sample is taken correctly, and drop the sealed sample into a container on their way out of the drive-thru site.eTrueNorth will handle processing test samples and communicating results to those tested and applicable departments of health.The sites will be staffed by Walmart pharmacists and associates.While individuals who are tested are awaiting results, please follow CDC guidelines and take steps to help prevent the virus from spreading to people in your home and community.

Walmart self-administered testing to move to store parking lots after holiday


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The 174 Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) in Kansas will receive an additional $8.6 million from the Department of Health and Human Services to enhance coronavirus testing in the communities they serve.

"As we start opening Kansas up for business again and do it in a safe, responsible manner, I think testing is going to be very much part of the key," said Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall. "So far, Kansas recieved over $100 million for testing for across the state. Specifically, some more funding announced today for our Rural Health Clinics. Right there in Reno County, the Hutch Clinic has been given some funding for testing. Of course, Prairie Star, your federally qualified clinic has already received a million dollars to help with COVID testing."

Between the two, testing capacity should be much more available in Reno County.

"This is one more piece of the puzzle that HHS is doing with the dollars that were allocated towards health care," Marshall said. "The President has heard loud and clear, testing and more testing is going to be needed."

The additional testing capacity can help to open up other areas of the county, as well.

"It will help as those folks reach out to say, the community college or the nursing homes, those types of things, being proactive with testing," Marshall noted. "Even as we think about how we're going to get our schools open this fall, it will be important."

The CDC maintains a guidance for testing criteria, however, states have the authority to change the testing criteria in response to changing developments.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The 174 Rural Health Clinics (RHCs) in Kansas will receive an additional $8.6 million from the Department of Health and Human Services to enhance coronavirus testing in the communities they serve."As we start opening Kansas up for business again and do it in a safe, responsible manner, I think testing is going to be very much part of the key," said Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall. "So far, Kansas recieved over $100 million for testing for across the state. Specifically, some more funding announced today for our Rural Health Clinics. Right there in Reno County, the Hutch Clinic has been given some funding for testing. Of course, Prairie Star, your federally qualified clinic has already received a million dollars to help with COVID testing."Between the two, testing capacity should be much more available in Reno County."This is one more piece of the puzzle that HHS is doing with the dollars that were allocated towards health care," Marshall said. "The President has heard loud and clear, testing and more testing is going to be needed."The additional testing capacity can help to open up other areas of the county, as well."It will help as those folks reach out to say, the community college or the nursing homes, those types of things, being proactive with testing," Marshall noted. "Even as we think about how we're going to get our schools open this fall, it will be important."The CDC maintains a guidance for testing criteria, however, states have the authority to change the testing criteria in response to changing developments.

Marshall: Federal money continuing to flow for testing


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County's health officer says the county is ready to write its own policy regarding COVID-19.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
Reno County's health officer says the county is ready to write its own policy regarding COVID-19."There was a large group of Reno County constituents and business leaders that came together as the Reno County Recovery Task Force," Baldetti said. "It was a marathon two weeks, but within that span of two weeks, the framework for what was thought to be a responsible plan moving forward specifically for Reno County was set forth."The bill passed by the Kansas Legislature Friday says in part, "The board of county commissioners of any county may issue an order relating to public health that includes provisions that are less stringent than the provisions of an executive order effective statewide issued by the governor. Any board of county commissioners issuing such an order must make a finding based upon advice from the local health officer or other local health officials that the scope of the provisions in the governor's executive order are not necessary to protect the public health and safety of the county to be implemented in the county."Baldetti would like to see serious consultation with the health care community when setting policy parameters for what would be needed to close things again once they have opened."If we have X number of hospitalizations, X number of ventilations and X number of disease spread, that's data that we can specifically track," Baldetti said. "We should take that to the table with the health care system and say how do you feel the activity is happening within the bounds of your purviews."As an example, Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has two potential wards for COVID patients."If one of those wards were to begin to fill up, which would be about half of the intake bed capacity associated with COVID-19, the hospital staff, their protocol is to raise the alarm bell, so to speak," Baldetti said.The hospital hasn't come close to those numbers, thus far.

Coronavirus Update