TOPEKA —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly's daily press conference Tuesday afternoon lasted 20 minutes. She opened the discussion with the latest coronavirus numbers from the KDHE.&nbsp; The agency reported 37 more positive virus cases and 7 additional deaths Tuesday.

Kelly confirmed the KDHE has expanded their criteria for virus testing. Only two symptoms are now required and you don't need to have a fever to get tested.

The Governor also mentioned and answered questions about the large budget deficit facing the state. State agencies have already been asked to freeze non-critical or non-covid-19 necessary hires.

While discussing budget cuts, one reporter reminded Kelly she is the education governor.&nbsp; Kelly said she is committed to education as a critical service but could not say whether K-12 education will ultimately face cuts.

TOPEKA —Kansas Governor Laura Kelly's daily press conference Tuesday afternoon lasted 20 minutes. She opened the discussion with the latest coronavirus numbers from the KDHE.&nbsp; The agency reported 37 more positive virus cases and 7 additional deaths Tuesday.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F253168479197216%2F&show_text=0&width=560" width="560" height="315" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Kelly confirmed the KDHE has expanded their criteria for virus testing. Only two symptoms are now required and you don't need to have a fever to get tested.The Governor also mentioned and answered questions about the large budget deficit facing the state. State agencies have already been asked to freeze non-critical or non-covid-19 necessary hires.While discussing budget cuts, one reporter reminded Kelly she is the education governor.&nbsp; Kelly said she is committed to education as a critical service but could not say whether K-12 education will ultimately face cuts.

 🎥 Gov. Kelly discusses virus testing, state budget cuts

COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Missouri’s attorney general on Tuesday sued the Chinese government over the coronavirus, claiming Chinese officials are to blame for the global pandemic.

<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/docs/default-source/press-releases/2019/key-factual-allegations.pdf?sfvrsn=ccae0b94_2">Click here to read</a> more on the lawsuit.

The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for Eastern Missouri, alleges Chinese officials are “responsible for the enormous death, suffering, and economic losses they inflicted on the world, including Missourians.”

“The Chinese government lied to the world about the danger and contagious nature of COVID-19, silenced whistleblowers, and did little to stop the spread of the disease,” Republican Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s office said in a written statement. “They must be held accountable for their actions.”

Schmitt's office is seeking unspecified damages for deaths in Missouri and the hit the virus has taken on the state’s economy.

The number of Missouri deaths statewide rose by 16 Tuesday to 215, according to Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering. The number of cases rose by 156 to 5,963

For most people, 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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587494259039.png" alt="Missouri Attorney General Schmitt made his announcement Tuesday afternoon- image courtesy KMOV TV" />
 <figcaption>Missouri Attorney General Schmitt made his announcement Tuesday afternoon- image courtesy KMOV TV</figcaption>
 </figure>COLUMBIA, Mo. (AP) — Missouri’s attorney general on Tuesday sued the Chinese government over the coronavirus, claiming Chinese officials are to blame for the global pandemic.<a href="https://ago.mo.gov/docs/default-source/press-releases/2019/key-factual-allegations.pdf?sfvrsn=ccae0b94_2">Click here to read</a> more on the lawsuit.The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for Eastern Missouri, alleges Chinese officials are “responsible for the enormous death, suffering, and economic losses they inflicted on the world, including Missourians.”“The Chinese government lied to the world about the danger and contagious nature of COVID-19, silenced whistleblowers, and did little to stop the spread of the disease,” Republican Attorney General Eric Schmitt’s office said in a written statement. “They must be held accountable for their actions.”Schmitt's office is seeking unspecified damages for deaths in Missouri and the hit the virus has taken on the state’s economy.The number of Missouri deaths statewide rose by 16 Tuesday to 215, according to Johns Hopkins University’s Center for Systems Science and Engineering. The number of cases rose by 156 to 5,963For most people, 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.

First state sues China over coronavirus pandemic

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The coronavirus has arrived at a third Kansas correctional facility as the state’s largest prison outbreak grew to include nearly 90 positive cases.

Kansas Department of Corrections Secretary Jeff Zmuda said in a news release that one staff member tested positive Monday at the Topeka Correctional Facility, which is the state’s only all-female prison with a capacity of 948. Health officials are conducting contact tracing to determine who has been in close contact with the worker.

The largest outbreak is at the Lansing Correction Facility, where 47 staff and 40 inmates are infected. An inmate at a work-release facility in Wichita also tested positive, prompting corrections officials to move 113 prisoners earlier this month to Lansing, where they are being quarantined.

With advocacy groups demanding action, Gov. Laura Kelly has said efforts are underway to identify inmates who are close to finishing their sentences and can be released.

Statewide, confirmed coronavirus cases increased Monday by 137 to 1,986. The number of deaths increased by eight to 100.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The coronavirus has arrived at a third Kansas correctional facility as the state’s largest prison outbreak grew to include nearly 90 positive cases.Kansas Department of Corrections Secretary Jeff Zmuda said in a news release that one staff member tested positive Monday at the Topeka Correctional Facility, which is the state’s only all-female prison with a capacity of 948. Health officials are conducting contact tracing to determine who has been in close contact with the worker.The largest outbreak is at the Lansing Correction Facility, where 47 staff and 40 inmates are infected. An inmate at a work-release facility in Wichita also tested positive, prompting corrections officials to move 113 prisoners earlier this month to Lansing, where they are being quarantined.With advocacy groups demanding action, Gov. Laura Kelly has said efforts are underway to identify inmates who are close to finishing their sentences and can be released.Statewide, confirmed coronavirus cases increased Monday by 137 to 1,986. The number of deaths increased by eight to 100.For most people, the new coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms that clear up within three weeks. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness and death.

Largest Kansas prison virus outbreak up to nearly 90 cases

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 37&nbsp; to a total of 2025, the state health department reported Tuesday afternoon.

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

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 37&nbsp; to a total of 2025, the state health department reported Tuesday afternoon.COVID-19 deaths increased to 107<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
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KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department and the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce are jointly convening the Reno County Economic Recovery Taskforce to begin developing a local plan for the opening of Reno County businesses following the conclusion of Governor Kelly's stay at home order on May 3. Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush wants the public to know that the problem and the solution is countywide.

"We've worked with the Chamber to put together different industries that are important to the community and then identify stakeholders in some of our larger cities," Bush said. "We've gone out of our way to identify businesses and operators and stakeholders that are outside in Reno County. We've specifically looked at Nickerson, Buhler, Turon, Pretty Prairie. We've invited a number of people to the table, so that it's going to be a true countywide effort. We don't know who is going to choose to participate."

The purpose of this task force will be seeking input for local strategy to be prepared in anticipation of a reopening date in May. 

"We're working on putting together subcommittees that are going to really inform the process, so that there's a lot of buy-in," said Hutch Chamber CEO Debra Teufel. "We want well thought out strategy how we reopen the county on the day that we hopefully can reopen."

In order to participate in any of the subcommittee meetings, businesses must register through the Hutch Chamber’s Zoom meeting link. The schedule and registration links for these meetings will be publicized at hutchchamber.com/recovery, as well as renogov.org. 

Health Department director Nick Baldetti notes that there won't be specific dates, but more of a general timeline, with the state level having first crack at when things will be lifted.

"We want to be very specific to try to have guidance documents for each industry to kind of have in hand, if you will, at said time when we can reopen," Baldetti said. "Now, obviously, we're beholden to any statewide gubernatorial orders that are in place, but, should, all else being equal, the current executive orders that are in place lapse on May 3, we would like to have some form of a plan for what May 4 looks like."

In order for Kansas to fit the criteria put out by the White House for reopening, there would need to be 14 days of a reduction in cases first. Kansas is still gaining cases day by day.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The Reno County Health Department and the Hutchinson/Reno County Chamber of Commerce are jointly convening the Reno County Economic Recovery Taskforce to begin developing a local plan for the opening of Reno County businesses following the conclusion of Governor Kelly's stay at home order on May 3. Reno County Commissioner Bob Bush wants the public to know that the problem and the solution is countywide."We've worked with the Chamber to put together different industries that are important to the community and then identify stakeholders in some of our larger cities," Bush said. "We've gone out of our way to identify businesses and operators and stakeholders that are outside in Reno County. We've specifically looked at Nickerson, Buhler, Turon, Pretty Prairie. We've invited a number of people to the table, so that it's going to be a true countywide effort. We don't know who is going to choose to participate."The purpose of this task force will be seeking input for local strategy to be prepared in anticipation of a reopening date in May. "We're working on putting together subcommittees that are going to really inform the process, so that there's a lot of buy-in," said Hutch Chamber CEO Debra Teufel. "We want well thought out strategy how we reopen the county on the day that we hopefully can reopen."In order to participate in any of the subcommittee meetings, businesses must register through the Hutch Chamber’s Zoom meeting link. The schedule and registration links for these meetings will be publicized at hutchchamber.com/recovery, as well as renogov.org. Health Department director Nick Baldetti notes that there won't be specific dates, but more of a general timeline, with the state level having first crack at when things will be lifted."We want to be very specific to try to have guidance documents for each industry to kind of have in hand, if you will, at said time when we can reopen," Baldetti said. "Now, obviously, we're beholden to any statewide gubernatorial orders that are in place, but, should, all else being equal, the current executive orders that are in place lapse on May 3, we would like to have some form of a plan for what May 4 looks like."In order for Kansas to fit the criteria put out by the White House for reopening, there would need to be 14 days of a reduction in cases first. Kansas is still gaining cases day by day.

Taskforce to begin working on economic plan


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is cutting back due to expected reductions in revenue as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic.

"We really put together three phases on this," said City Manager John Deardoff. "The first phase really talked, just about the elimination of all of our seasonal and our part-time help. Also, a hiring freeze in all of our vacant positions. We calculate out that, just through the balance of this year, that's going to save us about $613,000."

The first phase was implemented on March 30.

"Phase two, which actually goes into effect April 26, primarily focused on overtime issues in our police department," Deardoff said. "Also, travel restrictions, our travel budgets, obviously no one's going anywhere. We estimated a savings, just on the HPD overtime of about $250,000, so in that category, we're at $354,000 in projected savings."

There is a third phase on the drawing board for June, if necessary.

"I think it's so important that we're able to communicate, not only with the community, but with our employees, as to why we're doing these things," Deardoff said. "It's not just based on a projection. Phase one and two really don't have a large impact on any of our full-time employees, other than those in the parks and facilities that are now, some of our supervisors are now on a mower, because we've lost a lot of our summer temporary help that we rely on. Things may get a little shaggier, you know, as we go."

Deardoff wants his replacement, Jeff Cantrell and the council to have a chance to look at what the actual impacts are of the downturn before implementing any salary reductions or furloughs, which is what would have to come next. Deardoff plans to send the information to Cantrell so he knows what he's getting into.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — 
The City of Hutchinson is cutting back due to expected reductions in revenue as a result of the COVID-19 epidemic."We really put together three phases on this," said City Manager John Deardoff. "The first phase really talked, just about the elimination of all of our seasonal and our part-time help. Also, a hiring freeze in all of our vacant positions. We calculate out that, just through the balance of this year, that's going to save us about $613,000."The first phase was implemented on March 30."Phase two, which actually goes into effect April 26, primarily focused on overtime issues in our police department," Deardoff said. "Also, travel restrictions, our travel budgets, obviously no one's going anywhere. We estimated a savings, just on the HPD overtime of about $250,000, so in that category, we're at $354,000 in projected savings."There is a third phase on the drawing board for June, if necessary."I think it's so important that we're able to communicate, not only with the community, but with our employees, as to why we're doing these things," Deardoff said. "It's not just based on a projection. Phase one and two really don't have a large impact on any of our full-time employees, other than those in the parks and facilities that are now, some of our supervisors are now on a mower, because we've lost a lot of our summer temporary help that we rely on. Things may get a little shaggier, you know, as we go."Deardoff wants his replacement, Jeff Cantrell and the council to have a chance to look at what the actual impacts are of the downturn before implementing any salary reductions or furloughs, which is what would have to come next. Deardoff plans to send the information to Cantrell so he knows what he's getting into.

City phasing in cutbacks in light of revenue reductions

WASHINGTON (AP) — A chorus of governors from both parties pushed back hard after President Donald Trump accused Democrats of playing “a very dangerous political game” by insisting there is a shortage of tests for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The governors countered that the White House must do more to help states do the testing that’s needed before they can ease up on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ea4c17f541c7c63fac52941a6f43b885">stay-at-home orders</a>.

Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said the current federal effort “really is not good enough if we’re going to be able to start to open our economy. We cannot do that safely without the tests in place.”

<a href="https://apnews.com/4aac3a10664097f38633149367ac3928">Supply shortages</a>&nbsp;have stymied U.S. testing for weeks. The needs range from basic supplies like swabs and protective gear to highly specialized laboratory chemicals needed to analyze patient results. Hospitals, laboratories and state health departments report scouring the globe to secure orders, competing against each other and their peers abroad.

The governors’ plea for stepped-up coordination came Monday when the Trump administration again provided discordant messaging: Trump blasted state leaders on Twitter for being too dependent on federal government and said later that some governors just didn’t understand what they had, while Vice President Mike Pence assured governors the government was working around-the-clock to help them ramp up testing.

Pence sought to soften the administration’s message amid growing clamor from both parties for a national testing strategy to help secure testing swabs, chemical reagents and other crucial supplies.

“When it comes to testing, we’re here to help,” Pence told governors during a video conference from the headquarters of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Associated Press obtained audio of the call.

Pence said the administration sent each state a detailed list Monday of testing capacity. But Maryland Republican Gov. Larry Hogan said much of the unused lab machinery listed for his state was in federal labs the state does not have access to. Pence said the administration has agreed to open up federal labs to help states.

Hogan announced Monday that the state had received 500,000 tests from South Korea — a “game-changing” deal negotiated by his wife, Yumi Hogan, who grew up outside Seoul.

“They want the states to take the lead, and we have to go out and do it ourselves, and so that’s exactly what we did,” Hogan said.

Trump didn’t take that lying down. In his daily briefing, he said some governors have “more capacity than they understand.”

“The governor of Maryland could have called Mike Pence, could have saved a lot of money,” Trump said. “I don’t think he needed to go to South Korea. He needed to get a little knowledge.”

In Ohio, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine said his state is working with another federal agency, the Food and Drug Administration, to find a source of reagent, the chemical used to analyze test results. “A lot of good things are going on, but we’re not there yet,” DeWine said.

Democratic Montana Gov. Steve Bullock said his state received 5,000 nasal swabs Monday from FEMA — evidence the federal government is listening. But he added, “It doesn’t get us far enough.”

In New York, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the states should take the lead on testing but it’s up to the federal government to help sort out supply chain issues facing testing manufacturers.

“What the states will run into is when you talk to those labs ... they buy machines and equipment from national manufacturers,” said Cuomo, who is expected to meet with Trump at the White House Tuesday. “And those labs can only run as many tests as the national manufacturers provide them chemicals, reagents and lab kits.”

Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf said, “We need the reagents, we need the test kits and I think that’s the sort of general cry from other states.”

As Pence spoke with the governors, Trump took to Twitter with a more combative tone than his vice president, complaining that the “radical left” and “Do Nothing Democrats” were playing politics with their complaints about a lack of tests.

“Now they scream ....‘Testing, Testing, Testing,’ again playing a very dangerous political game,” Trump tweeted. “States, not the Federal Government, should be doing the Testing - But we will work with the Governors and get it done.”

Public health experts say the country needs to dramatically increase its testing infrastructure if it is going to safely roll back restrictions and reopen businesses without risking a major spike in infections.

Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, told ABC’s “Good Morning America” on Monday that the country is currently running about 1.5 million to 2 million tests per week. But, “we really need to get up to, at least, you know, maybe two times that, three times that.”

The White House said the Pentagon is finalizing negotiations with a Maine medical company to ramp up production of nasal swabs under the Defense Production Act. An Ohio manufacturer of cotton swabs has also agreed to convert its facilities to allow for 10 million testing swabs per month.

Testing was an issue on Capitol Hill, too, where the administration and Congress were inching toward agreement on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d4706859faf64bf3abd73419933c8ea2">an aid package of more than $450 billion&nbsp;</a>to boost a small-business loan program that has run out of money. The deal is expected to add funds for hospitals and COVID-19 testing, as well.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But 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/2020/4/1587431279916.png" alt="President Trump shows reporters a news article during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>President Trump shows reporters a news article during Monday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — A chorus of governors from both parties pushed back hard after President Donald Trump accused Democrats of playing “a very dangerous political game” by insisting there is a shortage of tests for&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">the coronavirus</a>. The governors countered that the White House must do more to help states do the testing that’s needed before they can ease up on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/ea4c17f541c7c63fac52941a6f43b885">stay-at-home orders</a>.Kansas Democratic Gov. Laura Kelly said the current federal effort “really is not good enough if we’re going to be able to start to open our economy. We cannot do that safely without the tests in place.”<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587431487729.png" alt="Governor Laura Kelly mentioned President Trump during Monday's press conference" />
 <figcaption>Governor Laura Kelly mentioned President Trump during Monday's press conference</figcaption>
 </figure><a href="https://apnews.com/4aac3a10664097f38633149367ac3928">Supply shortages</a>&nbsp;have stymied U.S. testing for weeks. The needs range from basic supplies like swabs and protective gear to highly specialized laboratory chemicals needed to analyze patient results. Hospitals, laboratories and state health departments report scouring the globe to secure orders, competing against each other and their peers abroad.The governors’ plea for stepped-up coordination came Monday when the Trump administration again provided discordant messaging: Trump blasted state leaders on Twitter for being too dependent on federal government and said later that some governors just didn’t understand what they had, while Vice President Mike Pence assured governors the government was working around-the-clock to help them ramp up testing.Pence sought to soften the administration’s message amid growing clamor from both parties for a national testing strategy to help secure testing swabs, chemical reagents and other crucial supplies.“When it comes to testing, we’re here to help,” Pence told governors during a video conference from the headquarters of the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The Associated Press obtained audio of the call.Pence said the administration sent each state a detailed list Monday of testing capacity. But Maryland Republican Gov. Larry Hogan said much of the unused lab machinery listed for his state was in federal labs the state does not have access to. Pence said the administration has agreed to open up federal labs to help states.Hogan announced Monday that the state had received 500,000 tests from South Korea — a “game-changing” deal negotiated by his wife, Yumi Hogan, who grew up outside Seoul.“They want the states to take the lead, and we have to go out and do it ourselves, and so that’s exactly what we did,” Hogan said.Trump didn’t take that lying down. In his daily briefing, he said some governors have “more capacity than they understand.”“The governor of Maryland could have called Mike Pence, could have saved a lot of money,” Trump said. “I don’t think he needed to go to South Korea. He needed to get a little knowledge.”In Ohio, Republican Gov. Mike DeWine said his state is working with another federal agency, the Food and Drug Administration, to find a source of reagent, the chemical used to analyze test results. “A lot of good things are going on, but we’re not there yet,” DeWine said.Democratic Montana Gov. Steve Bullock said his state received 5,000 nasal swabs Monday from FEMA — evidence the federal government is listening. But he added, “It doesn’t get us far enough.”In New York, Democratic Gov. Andrew Cuomo said the states should take the lead on testing but it’s up to the federal government to help sort out supply chain issues facing testing manufacturers.“What the states will run into is when you talk to those labs ... they buy machines and equipment from national manufacturers,” said Cuomo, who is expected to meet with Trump at the White House Tuesday. “And those labs can only run as many tests as the national manufacturers provide them chemicals, reagents and lab kits.”Pennsylvania Democratic Gov. Tom Wolf said, “We need the reagents, we need the test kits and I think that’s the sort of general cry from other states.”As Pence spoke with the governors, Trump took to Twitter with a more combative tone than his vice president, complaining that the “radical left” and “Do Nothing Democrats” were playing politics with their complaints about a lack of tests.“Now they scream ....‘Testing, Testing, Testing,’ again playing a very dangerous political game,” Trump tweeted. “States, not the Federal Government, should be doing the Testing - But we will work with the Governors and get it done.”Public health experts say the country needs to dramatically increase its testing infrastructure if it is going to safely roll back restrictions and reopen businesses without risking a major spike in infections.Dr. Anthony Fauci, the nation’s top infectious diseases expert, told ABC’s “Good Morning America” on Monday that the country is currently running about 1.5 million to 2 million tests per week. But, “we really need to get up to, at least, you know, maybe two times that, three times that.”The White House said the Pentagon is finalizing negotiations with a Maine medical company to ramp up production of nasal swabs under the Defense Production Act. An Ohio manufacturer of cotton swabs has also agreed to convert its facilities to allow for 10 million testing swabs per month.Testing was an issue on Capitol Hill, too, where the administration and Congress were inching toward agreement on&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/d4706859faf64bf3abd73419933c8ea2">an aid package of more than $450 billion&nbsp;</a>to boost a small-business loan program that has run out of money. The deal is expected to add funds for hospitals and COVID-19 testing, as well.For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough that clear up in two to three weeks. But for some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia and death.___

Kansas governor among those calling for more federal help


MCPHERSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count in McPherson County is now up to 19 and a second McPherson Dillons employee has tested positive for the virus. Ten McPherson County cases have recovered.

The latest identified positive cases are females in their twenties and fifties. Both are recovering at home. The Dillons employee was at work April 16, 17, 18 and 19 from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you were at the McPherson Dillons at those times, you may have been exposed to COVID-19.

If you get symptoms in the next several days, call your local health care provider or the McPherson County Health Department at (620) 241-1753.

Dillons continues to offer emergency leave to those diagnosed and follow all sanitation and cleaning procedures as recommended by the CDC.

Continue to follow the social distancing guidelines and the Stay at Home order. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when necessary, practice proper respiratory etiquette and when possible wear cloth face coverings or homemade masks in public.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587416697752.jpeg" alt="" />
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MCPHERSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;The COVID-19 case count in McPherson County is now up to 19 and a second McPherson Dillons employee has tested positive for the virus. Ten McPherson County cases have recovered.The latest identified positive cases are females in their twenties and fifties. Both are recovering at home. The Dillons employee was at work April 16, 17, 18 and 19 from 5 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you were at the McPherson Dillons at those times, you may have been exposed to COVID-19.If you get symptoms in the next several days, call your local health care provider or the McPherson County Health Department at (620) 241-1753.Dillons continues to offer emergency leave to those diagnosed and follow all sanitation and cleaning procedures as recommended by the CDC.Continue to follow the social distancing guidelines and the Stay at Home order. Wash your hands for at least 20 seconds when necessary, practice proper respiratory etiquette and when possible wear cloth face coverings or homemade masks in public.

Second McPherson Dillons employee diagnosed with COVID-19


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran held a Zoom call Monday afternoon with leaders from throughout Reno County. Though there were many topics discussed, ultimately the theme of the call went back to the need for much more testing availability to get the best data to decide when to reopen the economy in a safe and measured way and to the success thus far, for those with access to it while it had funds, of the Paycheck Protection Program. 

"We need to get back to something closer to normal as quickly as we can," Moran said. "We can't do it precipitously. We ought to do it with thought. We ought to do it in phases and the decisions ought to be made, not in Washington D.C., but more closely to home. I don't know when that day is, but our country cannot afford, people cannot afford to have the shutdown that we have, to the degree that we have it, for a long time."

At this point, Reno County medical providers say they are ready to be a testing hub, they just need the supplies to do it. From the Reno County Health Department, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, to the Hutchinson Clinic, they all are just asking for the opportunity to test widely enough to know what they are dealing with.

"There's a platform that's made by Abbott," said Mike Heck with the Hutchinson Clinic. "We have thirteen of these platforms that we could deploy throughout the community." 

Hutchinson Regional Medical Center also has the machines, but they all need the paper to do the test on.

"We need that test kit that goes in the Abbott platform," Heck said. "Swabs are not a choke point for us. Last I checked, we had three to four thousand of them that we've prepared and made ourselves here in our lab."

One advantage to being able to do the tests in Hutchinson, if they can get the supplies, is that there is some concern that false negatives may result when swabs have to be shipped to remote laboratories for testing when the viral load in patients is lower.

As to the Paycheck Protection Program funds availability, Moran believes the money will come and likely soon.

"All but nine banks in Kansas are participating in this program," Moran said Monday. "I don't know what the credit union numbers are, but it is broadly being used, and I think making a difference for lots of small businesses. It was expected that even as of tomorrow, and it still may turn out true, that we will restock it, stock that fund and expected to add $360 billion to that SBA program. I've said publicly and would predict here to you that will happen."

It can happen as soon as Tuesday as long as it is passed with unanimous consent, but if there is a single objection, then Senators would need to go back to Washington to vote, which might delay it to later in the week. Moran is in support of this restock, but he signaled that he would have to give additional consideration to spending beyond that.

"The Federal Reserve, while they have lots of power and the Treasury has lots of capabilities, they are not unending," Moran said. "They are not ad infinitum. My view is going to start narrowing about what it is more we can do to keep spending money on, because there is another crisis coming that follows this one and that is how do you pay for what we just did?"

In order for the money to be there to pay for the work of government, the economy needs to be running and the key to that, in the short and longer run, appears to be enough testing to stamp out small outbreaks as they arise in the country and right now, Kansas hasn't had enough tests to accomplish that.

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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;Kansas U.S. Senator Jerry Moran held a Zoom call Monday afternoon with leaders from throughout Reno County. Though there were many topics discussed, ultimately the theme of the call went back to the need for much more testing availability to get the best data to decide when to reopen the economy in a safe and measured way and to the success thus far, for those with access to it while it had funds, of the Paycheck Protection Program. "We need to get back to something closer to normal as quickly as we can," Moran said. "We can't do it precipitously. We ought to do it with thought. We ought to do it in phases and the decisions ought to be made, not in Washington D.C., but more closely to home. I don't know when that day is, but our country cannot afford, people cannot afford to have the shutdown that we have, to the degree that we have it, for a long time."At this point, Reno County medical providers say they are ready to be a testing hub, they just need the supplies to do it. From the Reno County Health Department, to Hutchinson Regional Medical Center, to the Hutchinson Clinic, they all are just asking for the opportunity to test widely enough to know what they are dealing with."There's a platform that's made by Abbott," said Mike Heck with the Hutchinson Clinic. "We have thirteen of these platforms that we could deploy throughout the community." Hutchinson Regional Medical Center also has the machines, but they all need the paper to do the test on."We need that test kit that goes in the Abbott platform," Heck said. "Swabs are not a choke point for us. Last I checked, we had three to four thousand of them that we've prepared and made ourselves here in our lab."One advantage to being able to do the tests in Hutchinson, if they can get the supplies, is that there is some concern that false negatives may result when swabs have to be shipped to remote laboratories for testing when the viral load in patients is lower.As to the Paycheck Protection Program funds availability, Moran believes the money will come and likely soon."All but nine banks in Kansas are participating in this program," Moran said Monday. "I don't know what the credit union numbers are, but it is broadly being used, and I think making a difference for lots of small businesses. It was expected that even as of tomorrow, and it still may turn out true, that we will restock it, stock that fund and expected to add $360 billion to that SBA program. I've said publicly and would predict here to you that will happen."It can happen as soon as Tuesday as long as it is passed with unanimous consent, but if there is a single objection, then Senators would need to go back to Washington to vote, which might delay it to later in the week. Moran is in support of this restock, but he signaled that he would have to give additional consideration to spending beyond that."The Federal Reserve, while they have lots of power and the Treasury has lots of capabilities, they are not unending," Moran said. "They are not ad infinitum. My view is going to start narrowing about what it is more we can do to keep spending money on, because there is another crisis coming that follows this one and that is how do you pay for what we just did?"In order for the money to be there to pay for the work of government, the economy needs to be running and the key to that, in the short and longer run, appears to be enough testing to stamp out small outbreaks as they arise in the country and right now, Kansas hasn't had enough tests to accomplish that.

Moran: PPP money is coming, testing needed to open up economy

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rally Reno campaign has been successful in raising funds for organizations in need.

The Chamber announced Monday that area nonprofits can now apply for funds with a simple application explaining how their organization is feeling the impact of COVID-19. 

Organizations will be asked to identify what need the grant funds will address and how they intend to spend the funds. A joint committee of community leaders will review applications and award grants weekly, so applicants should have a funding decision within two weeks of the request. 

Over the past several weeks, the Rally Reno effort has amassed $100,000 in funds through the efforts of the Hutchinson Community Foundation and the Reno County United Way.

For more information and the application, visit <a href="https://rallyreno.org/nonprofit-grants/">rallyreno.org</a>.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585236822615.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — The Rally Reno campaign has been successful in raising funds for organizations in need.The Chamber announced Monday that area nonprofits can now apply for funds with a simple application explaining how their organization is feeling the impact of COVID-19. Organizations will be asked to identify what need the grant funds will address and how they intend to spend the funds. A joint committee of community leaders will review applications and award grants weekly, so applicants should have a funding decision within two weeks of the request. Over the past several weeks, the Rally Reno effort has amassed $100,000 in funds through the efforts of the Hutchinson Community Foundation and the Reno County United Way.For more information and the application, visit <a href="https://rallyreno.org/nonprofit-grants/">rallyreno.org</a>.

Application process open for Rally Reno

GENEVA (AP) — The World Health Organization chief warned Monday that “the worst is yet ahead of us” in the coronavirus outbreak, reviving the alarm just as many countries ease restrictive measures aimed at reducing its spread.

WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus didn’t specify why he believes the outbreak that has infected some 2.5 million people and killed over 166,000 could get worse. He and others, however, have previously pointed to the likely future spread of the illness through Africa, where health systems are far less developed.

“Trust us. The worst is yet ahead of us,” Tedros told reporters from WHO headquarters in Geneva. “Let’s prevent this tragedy. It’s a virus that many people still don’t understand.”

Some Asian and European governments have gradually eased or started relaxing “lockdown” measures like quarantines, school and business closures and restrictions on public gatherings, citing a decline in the growth of COVID-19 case counts and deaths.

Tedros and his agency have been on the defensive after President Donald Trump of the United States — the WHO’s biggest single donor — last week ordered a halt to U.S. funding for the agency, alleging that it botched the early response to the outbreak.

Among other things, Trump insisted WHO had failed to adequately share “in a timely and transparent” way information about the outbreak after it erupted in China late last year.

Tedros said: “There is no secret in WHO because keeping things confidential or secret is dangerous. It’s a health issue.”

“This virus is dangerous. It exploits cracks between us when we have differences,” he said.

Tedros said U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staffers have been seconded to work with his agency, suggesting that was a sign of WHO’s transparency.

“Having CDC staff (at WHO) means there is nothing hidden from the U.S. from Day One” Tedros said. “Our CDC colleagues also know that we give information immediately to anyone.”

In one of his starkest comparisons yet, the U.N. health agency chief also alluded to the so-called Spanish flu more than a century ago, saying the coronavirus has a “very dangerous combination ... like the 1918 flu that killed up to 100 million people.”

Tedros called the illness “Public Enemy No. 1,” and said: “We have been warning from Day One: This is a devil that everybody should fight.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587401715959.png" alt="General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during Monday's virus press conference" />
 <figcaption>General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus during Monday's virus press conference</figcaption>
 </figure>GENEVA (AP) — The World Health Organization chief warned Monday that “the worst is yet ahead of us” in the coronavirus outbreak, reviving the alarm just as many countries ease restrictive measures aimed at reducing its spread.WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus didn’t specify why he believes the outbreak that has infected some 2.5 million people and killed over 166,000 could get worse. He and others, however, have previously pointed to the likely future spread of the illness through Africa, where health systems are far less developed.“Trust us. The worst is yet ahead of us,” Tedros told reporters from WHO headquarters in Geneva. “Let’s prevent this tragedy. It’s a virus that many people still don’t understand.”Some Asian and European governments have gradually eased or started relaxing “lockdown” measures like quarantines, school and business closures and restrictions on public gatherings, citing a decline in the growth of COVID-19 case counts and deaths.Tedros and his agency have been on the defensive after President Donald Trump of the United States — the WHO’s biggest single donor — last week ordered a halt to U.S. funding for the agency, alleging that it botched the early response to the outbreak.Among other things, Trump insisted WHO had failed to adequately share “in a timely and transparent” way information about the outbreak after it erupted in China late last year.Tedros said: “There is no secret in WHO because keeping things confidential or secret is dangerous. It’s a health issue.”“This virus is dangerous. It exploits cracks between us when we have differences,” he said.Tedros said U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention staffers have been seconded to work with his agency, suggesting that was a sign of WHO’s transparency.“Having CDC staff (at WHO) means there is nothing hidden from the U.S. from Day One” Tedros said. “Our CDC colleagues also know that we give information immediately to anyone.”In one of his starkest comparisons yet, the U.N. health agency chief also alluded to the so-called Spanish flu more than a century ago, saying the coronavirus has a “very dangerous combination ... like the 1918 flu that killed up to 100 million people.”Tedros called the illness “Public Enemy No. 1,” and said: “We have been warning from Day One: This is a devil that everybody should fight.”___

WHO chief says worst of virus outbreak yet to come

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With stay-at-home orders in place, it is still a question as to when and how many activities will be available for youth and adults this summer when it comes to recreation. 

Ted Nelson with Salt City Splash says they are working to get staff and lifeguards together for the upcoming season even though many training facilities are unavailable during the pandemic.

“We’ve been talking with them and we, of course, we know they’re currently shut down,” Nelson said. “We’re all looking anxiously forward&nbsp; about the time in which we get a couple of restrictions taken off.”

Nelson says the Red Cross is working to make sure potential lifeguards can at least get the classroom work done in advance.

"They’re doing what they call 'blended learning' in which you sign up for a class and you do all online that you can,” Nelson said. “Then all we have to do is wait for the in-person water skills.”

The in-pool training can be done over a weekend and the Splash has been in contact with area pools to get the necessary training in. So far, Nelson says they have a good start to get a full complement of lifeguards for the season.

“We’re just under 50% of our staff from last year returning and the ones who aren’t are for various reasons,” Nelson noted. “And we’re looking at a pretty good number of applicants, but we could always use more.”

Nelson says they need about 40 lifeguards for the summer and have about 18 potential applicants on file at the moment. 

If you would like to get more information on becoming a lifeguard, call Nelson at 620-662-3367 or email Nelson at <a href="mailto:tnelson@hutchrec.com">tnelson@hutchrec.com</a>. Lifeguards must be at least 15 years old.

While the exact date is still fluid, Nelson says plans are to open May 23.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587414451363.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — With stay-at-home orders in place, it is still a question as to when and how many activities will be available for youth and adults this summer when it comes to recreation. Ted Nelson with Salt City Splash says they are working to get staff and lifeguards together for the upcoming season even though many training facilities are unavailable during the pandemic.“We’ve been talking with them and we, of course, we know they’re currently shut down,” Nelson said. “We’re all looking anxiously forward&nbsp; about the time in which we get a couple of restrictions taken off.”Nelson says the Red Cross is working to make sure potential lifeguards can at least get the classroom work done in advance."They’re doing what they call 'blended learning' in which you sign up for a class and you do all online that you can,” Nelson said. “Then all we have to do is wait for the in-person water skills.”The in-pool training can be done over a weekend and the Splash has been in contact with area pools to get the necessary training in. So far, Nelson says they have a good start to get a full complement of lifeguards for the season.“We’re just under 50% of our staff from last year returning and the ones who aren’t are for various reasons,” Nelson noted. “And we’re looking at a pretty good number of applicants, but we could always use more.”Nelson says they need about 40 lifeguards for the summer and have about 18 potential applicants on file at the moment. If you would like to get more information on becoming a lifeguard, call Nelson at 620-662-3367 or email Nelson at <a href="mailto:tnelson@hutchrec.com">tnelson@hutchrec.com</a>. Lifeguards must be at least 15 years old.While the exact date is still fluid, Nelson says plans are to open May 23.

Salt City Splash still looking for lifeguards

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced that, if you have lost your job or hours because of COVID-19, you may qualify for a special enrollment period in the marketplace for health insurance.

Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System has counselors who can help those who need assistance to sign up. Potential applicants will have 60 days after their employment change to file an application.

Go to <a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/patients-families/certified-application-counselor?fbclid=IwAR1hAsAKh8_6_NkVsjrZgoHRvjZqKnKmImes7LQLZR9LovvRbqFo2mawkNA">hutchregional.com</a> for instructions and links about the process. Applicants can figure out their eligibility based on income and see the steps that must be taken to secure coverage.

Potential applicants can also contact Amy Oliver at 620-513-3780 or Torry Ericson at 620-665-2514 for more information.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1579797775553.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center announced that, if you have lost your job or hours because of COVID-19, you may qualify for a special enrollment period in the marketplace for health insurance.Hutchinson Regional Healthcare System has counselors who can help those who need assistance to sign up. Potential applicants will have 60 days after their employment change to file an application.Go to <a href="https://www.hutchregional.com/patients-families/certified-application-counselor?fbclid=IwAR1hAsAKh8_6_NkVsjrZgoHRvjZqKnKmImes7LQLZR9LovvRbqFo2mawkNA">hutchregional.com</a> for instructions and links about the process. Applicants can figure out their eligibility based on income and see the steps that must be taken to secure coverage.Potential applicants can also contact Amy Oliver at 620-513-3780 or Torry Ericson at 620-665-2514 for more information.

Insurance help for those suffering job loss because of COVID-19

HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has been forced to close the hospital to visitors. That can create a little anxiety among loved ones, especially if a newborn is on the way. 

Last week, the hospital shared a story about Diane and Bryan Almquist, along with Lori Newton, who spent most of Thursday awaiting the birth of a new grandchild. And they did it from the parking lot of the hospital.

Ashley and Jordan Newton arrived at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Wednesday evening. With a "No Visitor" policy in place because of the pandemic, the Almquist’s made the most of the situation. Through sun, clouds and a rainstorm, they camped out in the bed of a pickup, awaiting the big event. 

Ashley delivered Kase Roger Newton at 3:25 a.m. on Friday. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587410910026.jpeg" alt="Kase Roger Newton and proud parents Ashley and Jordan Newton." />
 <figcaption>Kase Roger Newton and proud parents Ashley and Jordan Newton.</figcaption>
 </figure>HUTCHINSON, Kan. — Hutchinson Regional Medical Center has been forced to close the hospital to visitors. That can create a little anxiety among loved ones, especially if a newborn is on the way. Last week, the hospital shared a story about Diane and Bryan Almquist, along with Lori Newton, who spent most of Thursday awaiting the birth of a new grandchild. And they did it from the parking lot of the hospital.Ashley and Jordan Newton arrived at Hutchinson Regional Medical Center Wednesday evening. With a "No Visitor" policy in place because of the pandemic, the Almquist’s made the most of the situation. Through sun, clouds and a rainstorm, they camped out in the bed of a pickup, awaiting the big event. Ashley delivered Kase Roger Newton at 3:25 a.m. on Friday.

Grandparents wait in HRMC parking lot for new grandson


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday, April 15 that she has extended the statewide stay at home order to May 3, 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. 

The Health Department continues to highly encourage Reno County residents to continue social distancing; maintaining a six-foot boundary, limiting time within said boundary to 10 minutes or less, and social gatherings do not exceed 10 or more individuals. Additionally, a cloth mask in public is also highly encouraged.

During the stay at home order, people are cleaning out their homes and asking about garage or estate sales. At this time, due to the Governor’s Executive Order 20-16 having a garage or estate sale is not allowed until the order expires on May 3, 2020.

The Health Department encourages residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.

Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas Governor Laura Kelly announced Wednesday, April 15 that she has extended the statewide stay at home order to May 3, 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. The Health Department continues to highly encourage Reno County residents to continue social distancing; maintaining a six-foot boundary, limiting time within said boundary to 10 minutes or less, and social gatherings do not exceed 10 or more individuals. Additionally, a cloth mask in public is also highly encouraged.During the stay at home order, people are cleaning out their homes and asking about garage or estate sales. At this time, due to the Governor’s Executive Order 20-16 having a garage or estate sale is not allowed until the order expires on May 3, 2020.The Health Department encourages residents to be dependent on health authorities to provide the most accurate information on COVID-19.Please practice good hygiene with frequent hand washing, proper respiratory etiquette such as coughing and sneezing into your elbow bend, limit handshakes and physical contact. Stay home if you are feeling ill and call your primary care physician to discuss your symptoms.

Reno County Health Department: Continue social distancing

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 137&nbsp; to&nbsp; a total of 1,986, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 137&nbsp; to&nbsp; a total of 1,986, the state health department reported Monday afternoon.Statewide virus deaths increased to 100.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE<figure>
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HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall is optimistic that the worst of the first peak of COVID-19 will be behind us soon.

"The good news is, that I think, everything that I can study in the United States and Kansas says the worst days are behind us," Marshall said. "Whatever resources we were going to need for hospital beds and ICU beds and ventilators, we have passed that day in Kansas, as well as the rest of the country. We have a hiccup going on in southwest Kansas right now."

That part of the state isn't as far along as some other areas.

"Right now, they're in the acceleration phase down in southwest Kansas," Marshall said. "We're doing a lot of things to help them, as well. We should be talking about, what does it look like here in a month or so. I know that I was on a phone call with Carter File this past week and the community college presidents, what it looks like this summer."

The hope is that they can get some kids that need hands on vocational instruction in to do some of that in the summertime.

"It took kind of a month for this virus to crescendo and accelerate," Marshall said. "We're up there at that peak of that curve, as well, so it will probably take a month to come down, but if we go back out now, then we will have a huge rebound. We need to stay hunkered down for a couple more weeks."

Marshall suggested that those looking to reopen businesses discuss with infectious disease professionals what reopening needs to look like when the virus has calmed down enough to do so.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584054346770.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
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By
NICK GOSNELL
Hutch
Post
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. — Kansas First District Congressman Dr. Roger Marshall is optimistic that the worst of the first peak of COVID-19 will be behind us soon."The good news is, that I think, everything that I can study in the United States and Kansas says the worst days are behind us," Marshall said. "Whatever resources we were going to need for hospital beds and ICU beds and ventilators, we have passed that day in Kansas, as well as the rest of the country. We have a hiccup going on in southwest Kansas right now."That part of the state isn't as far along as some other areas."Right now, they're in the acceleration phase down in southwest Kansas," Marshall said. "We're doing a lot of things to help them, as well. We should be talking about, what does it look like here in a month or so. I know that I was on a phone call with Carter File this past week and the community college presidents, what it looks like this summer."The hope is that they can get some kids that need hands on vocational instruction in to do some of that in the summertime."It took kind of a month for this virus to crescendo and accelerate," Marshall said. "We're up there at that peak of that curve, as well, so it will probably take a month to come down, but if we go back out now, then we will have a huge rebound. We need to stay hunkered down for a couple more weeks."Marshall suggested that those looking to reopen businesses discuss with infectious disease professionals what reopening needs to look like when the virus has calmed down enough to do so.

Marshall: We're just about at the top of the curve, if we stay vigilant

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration and Congress are nearing an agreement on an aid package of up to $450 billion to boost a small-business loan program that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dded8ead64598a3893f4046bbe857d2e">run out of money&nbsp;</a>and add funds for hospitals and COVID-19 testing.

President Donald Trump said Sunday, “We're getting close to a deal.”

Along with the small business boost, Trump said the negotiators were looking at "helping our hospitals," particularly hard-hit rural health care providers.

A deal could be announced Monday, the president said at a White House briefing.

With small-business owners reeling during a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;outbreak that has shuttered much economic activity, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said earlier Sunday he was hopeful of a deal that could pass Congress quickly and get the Small Business Administration program back up by midweek.

“I think we’re very close to a deal today. I’m hopeful that we can get that done,” he said.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said he believed a deal could be reached late Sunday or early Monday. “We still have a few more details to deal with,” he said.

The Senate is scheduled for a pro forma session Monday, but no vote has been set.

The House announced it could meet as soon as Wednesday for a recorded vote on the pending package, according to a schedule update from Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md.

Under the emerging deal there would be $300 billion for small-business payroll program, and $50 billion would be available for small business disaster fund. Additionally, it would bring $75 billion for hospitals and $25 billion for testing, according to those involved in the talks

On a conference call Sunday afternoon that included Trump, Mnuchin and Republican senators, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., indicated the only remaining item for discussion involved the money for testing, according to a Senate GOP leadership aide who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss a private call.

Under the emerging deal, the government’s Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses would get roughly $300 billion, according to Mnuchin. The program has been swamped by companies applying for loans and reached its appropriations limit last Thursday after approving nearly 1.7 million loans. That left thousands of small businesses in limbo as they sought help. An additional $50 billion in the evolving deal would go for disaster loans.

About $75 billion would go to U.S. hospitals, for those straining under a ballooning coronavirus caseload as well as those struggling to stay financially afloat after suspending elective surgeries during the pandemic. About $25 billion would be added for COVID-19 testing, something states have said was urgently needed. The money for hospitals and testing were priorities sought by congressional Democrats.

But additional aid to state and local governments would be left out, Mnuchin said. Democrats have been keen to boost funding to cash-strapped states and local governments whose revenues have cratered, but the issue threatened to provoke fights between large, high-tax states like California and New York and smaller states more typically run by Republicans.

“The president is willing to consider that in the next bill, but wants to get this over the finish line with a focus on small businesses, hospitals and testing,” Mnuchin said.

He said he’s been in touch with GOP leaders including McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and all are “on board with the same plan.” On the Sunday call with senators, Mnuchin and McConnell reiterated that money for state and local governments as well as food stamps would not be included in the package, according to the GOP aide.

“I’m hopeful that we can reach an agreement, that the Senate can pass this tomorrow, and that the House can take it up on Tuesday, and, Wednesday, we’d be back up and running,” Mnuchin said earlier in his TV interview.

Schumer said Democrats would insist on aid for state and local governments. They had submitted a compromise offer Friday that would provide $150 billion for states as well as cities, counties and towns based on need. ‪Key swing states for Trump in the November presidential election — Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin — would receive billions in new aid under the proposal, according to a senior Democratic aide who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details of private negotiations.

“We are pushing hard,” Schumer said. “We don’t want our police, our firefighters, our EMTs, our bus drivers — this is not an abstract issue. We don’t want them fired.”

House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., predicted an agreement would be reached “soon.”

“I am pleased to report that we have been engaged in bipartisan negotiations on our interim legislation, and our progress is encouraging,” she said in a letter late Saturday to Democratic colleagues.

Republican Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who leads the National Governors’ Association, said he and other governors believe that aid for state and local government is “desperately needed,'' but that it may not be an issue worth fighting over for now.

“I don’t think the deal is finalized yet,” he said. “But, look, we do not want to hold up funding to these small businesses. And we hope that the Democrats and the Republicans in the Senate can come together in a bipartisan way and get something moving for the American people."

Democratic New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said states needed money from the federal government to ramp up testing, and he blasted legislation that wouldn’t provide it.

“You have the president saying 15 times, ‘It’s up to the governors, it’s up to the governors, it’s up to the governors,'" he said. "And then they’re going to pass a piece of legislation that gives you know what to states: zero, zilch, nada, niente. Whatever language you want to say it, nothing. But then how are the states supposed to do this?”

The SBA loans, based on a company’s payroll costs, offer owners forgiveness if they retain workers or rehire those who have been laid off. The law provides for forgiveness for companies in any industry — even businesses like hedge funds and law firms. There’s a limit of $100,000 on the amount of employees’ compensation that can be considered when loan forgiveness is calculated.

While they wait, owners who are shut down or who’ve lost revenue have expressed unease about the longer-term impact the virus outbreak will have on their companies.

“There’s great pain out there,” said Suzanne Clark, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “Every hour and day that goes by without this assistance is really hurting them.”

Mnuchin, Schumer and Hogan appeared on CNN's “State of the Union," and Clark spoke on CBS' “Face the Nation.”

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587378698890.png" alt="Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin doing television interviews on Sunday-image courtesy Dept. of Treasury" />
 <figcaption>Treasury Secretary Steve Mnuchin doing television interviews on Sunday-image courtesy Dept. of Treasury</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — The Trump administration and Congress are nearing an agreement on an aid package of up to $450 billion to boost a small-business loan program that has&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/dded8ead64598a3893f4046bbe857d2e">run out of money&nbsp;</a>and add funds for hospitals and COVID-19 testing.President Donald Trump said Sunday, “We're getting close to a deal.”Along with the small business boost, Trump said the negotiators were looking at "helping our hospitals," particularly hard-hit rural health care providers.A deal could be announced Monday, the president said at a White House briefing.With small-business owners reeling during a&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/VirusOutbreak">coronavirus</a>&nbsp;outbreak that has shuttered much economic activity, Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin said earlier Sunday he was hopeful of a deal that could pass Congress quickly and get the Small Business Administration program back up by midweek.“I think we’re very close to a deal today. I’m hopeful that we can get that done,” he said.Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., said he believed a deal could be reached late Sunday or early Monday. “We still have a few more details to deal with,” he said.The Senate is scheduled for a pro forma session Monday, but no vote has been set.The House announced it could meet as soon as Wednesday for a recorded vote on the pending package, according to a schedule update from Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md.Under the emerging deal there would be $300 billion for small-business payroll program, and $50 billion would be available for small business disaster fund. Additionally, it would bring $75 billion for hospitals and $25 billion for testing, according to those involved in the talksOn a conference call Sunday afternoon that included Trump, Mnuchin and Republican senators, Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., indicated the only remaining item for discussion involved the money for testing, according to a Senate GOP leadership aide who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss a private call.Under the emerging deal, the government’s Paycheck Protection Program for small businesses would get roughly $300 billion, according to Mnuchin. The program has been swamped by companies applying for loans and reached its appropriations limit last Thursday after approving nearly 1.7 million loans. That left thousands of small businesses in limbo as they sought help. An additional $50 billion in the evolving deal would go for disaster loans.About $75 billion would go to U.S. hospitals, for those straining under a ballooning coronavirus caseload as well as those struggling to stay financially afloat after suspending elective surgeries during the pandemic. About $25 billion would be added for COVID-19 testing, something states have said was urgently needed. The money for hospitals and testing were priorities sought by congressional Democrats.But additional aid to state and local governments would be left out, Mnuchin said. Democrats have been keen to boost funding to cash-strapped states and local governments whose revenues have cratered, but the issue threatened to provoke fights between large, high-tax states like California and New York and smaller states more typically run by Republicans.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587378513189.png" alt="President Trump answers questions during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>President Trump answers questions during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>“The president is willing to consider that in the next bill, but wants to get this over the finish line with a focus on small businesses, hospitals and testing,” Mnuchin said.He said he’s been in touch with GOP leaders including McConnell and House Minority Leader Kevin McCarthy, R-Calif., and all are “on board with the same plan.” On the Sunday call with senators, Mnuchin and McConnell reiterated that money for state and local governments as well as food stamps would not be included in the package, according to the GOP aide.“I’m hopeful that we can reach an agreement, that the Senate can pass this tomorrow, and that the House can take it up on Tuesday, and, Wednesday, we’d be back up and running,” Mnuchin said earlier in his TV interview.Schumer said Democrats would insist on aid for state and local governments. They had submitted a compromise offer Friday that would provide $150 billion for states as well as cities, counties and towns based on need. ‪Key swing states for Trump in the November presidential election — Pennsylvania, Michigan, Ohio and Wisconsin — would receive billions in new aid under the proposal, according to a senior Democratic aide who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details of private negotiations.“We are pushing hard,” Schumer said. “We don’t want our police, our firefighters, our EMTs, our bus drivers — this is not an abstract issue. We don’t want them fired.”House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., predicted an agreement would be reached “soon.”“I am pleased to report that we have been engaged in bipartisan negotiations on our interim legislation, and our progress is encouraging,” she said in a letter late Saturday to Democratic colleagues.Republican Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, who leads the National Governors’ Association, said he and other governors believe that aid for state and local government is “desperately needed,'' but that it may not be an issue worth fighting over for now.“I don’t think the deal is finalized yet,” he said. “But, look, we do not want to hold up funding to these small businesses. And we hope that the Democrats and the Republicans in the Senate can come together in a bipartisan way and get something moving for the American people."Democratic New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo said states needed money from the federal government to ramp up testing, and he blasted legislation that wouldn’t provide it.“You have the president saying 15 times, ‘It’s up to the governors, it’s up to the governors, it’s up to the governors,'" he said. "And then they’re going to pass a piece of legislation that gives you know what to states: zero, zilch, nada, niente. Whatever language you want to say it, nothing. But then how are the states supposed to do this?”The SBA loans, based on a company’s payroll costs, offer owners forgiveness if they retain workers or rehire those who have been laid off. The law provides for forgiveness for companies in any industry — even businesses like hedge funds and law firms. There’s a limit of $100,000 on the amount of employees’ compensation that can be considered when loan forgiveness is calculated.While they wait, owners who are shut down or who’ve lost revenue have expressed unease about the longer-term impact the virus outbreak will have on their companies.“There’s great pain out there,” said Suzanne Clark, president of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. “Every hour and day that goes by without this assistance is really hurting them.”Mnuchin, Schumer and Hogan appeared on CNN's “State of the Union," and Clark spoke on CBS' “Face the Nation.”

Evolving virus aid package offers billions for hospitals, testing


HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;During all major events in US history, people documented it as it happened not only to remember those people, recall their hardships, and learn from them; but also, to see their resiliency, strength, and how they overcame adversity.

The Reno County Museum is introducing a new “Share Your Story” program. This program will allow the community to share their stories of struggle and perseverance. These stories will both capture history as its unfolding and allow the Museum to build a deeper connection within the community during these times of separation.

The goal is to make that connection possible as the community experiences this moment in history together. 

The museum said in a Friday release, "We want everyone to have an active role in our local history and the story that is told both now and for future generations."

The museum invites the public to share their stories documenting this pandemic in a variety of ways. You can submit your story in the form of a video, writing, photo, or artwork by using the form on <a href="https://www.renocomuseum.org/">www.renocomuseum.org</a>.

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 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587377372081.jpeg" alt="" />
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 </figure>
HUTCHINSON,
Kan. —&nbsp;During all major events in US history, people documented it as it happened not only to remember those people, recall their hardships, and learn from them; but also, to see their resiliency, strength, and how they overcame adversity.The Reno County Museum is introducing a new “Share Your Story” program. This program will allow the community to share their stories of struggle and perseverance. These stories will both capture history as its unfolding and allow the Museum to build a deeper connection within the community during these times of separation.The goal is to make that connection possible as the community experiences this moment in history together. The museum said in a Friday release, "We want everyone to have an active role in our local history and the story that is told both now and for future generations."The museum invites the public to share their stories documenting this pandemic in a variety of ways. You can submit your story in the form of a video, writing, photo, or artwork by using the form on <a href="https://www.renocomuseum.org/">www.renocomuseum.org</a>.

Museum invites residents to Share Your Story

TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly announced Sunday that Kansas has received additional supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) to expand COVID-19 testing in Finney, Ford, Lyon and Seward counties, according to a media release.

“I want to thank our federal partners for their ongoing efforts to help our state response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Kelly said. “I particularly appreciate the assistance from Senator Pat Roberts and Senator Jerry Moran.”&nbsp;

Kansas Department of Health and Environment is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to test and contain recent clusters of positive coronavirus cases in Kansas counties centered around food and meat processing plants.

“In order to fight this pandemic, collaboration at the state, local and federal level is paramount,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Expanded testing and additional supplies from the federal level will equip and inform our state and local health officials as they work to protect the health of Kansans.”

The plants in southwest Kansas account for 25 to 30% of the country’s beef processing. “Agriculture is a facet of&nbsp;our state’s&nbsp;most&nbsp;critical infrastructure –&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;just feed the state, we feed the world,” Kelly said. “This is particularly true of our frontline workers in meatpacking plants across the state&nbsp;who process&nbsp;a significant portion of the nation’s supply.”&nbsp;&nbsp;

Since the start of this crisis,&nbsp;the Governor&nbsp;and members of&nbsp;her&nbsp;administration have been in communication with&nbsp;those plants and representatives of their employees.

The&nbsp;facilities&nbsp;have&nbsp;modified&nbsp;several&nbsp;production and shipping systems and have&nbsp;taken&nbsp;proactive measures including temperature and health screenings, enhanced sanitation&nbsp;and social distancing.&nbsp;&nbsp;

In recent weeks, Kansas has struggled to obtain the necessary supplies needed to test and treat coronavirus patients. The State received their allocation of the Strategic National Stockpile in late March. PPE received from the SNS&nbsp;was quickly distributed to counties throughout the state based on population.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/4/1587347190071.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during an April 16 news conference" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly during an April 16 news conference</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA —Governor Laura Kelly announced Sunday that Kansas has received additional supplies and personal protective equipment (PPE) to expand COVID-19 testing in Finney, Ford, Lyon and Seward counties, according to a media release.“I want to thank our federal partners for their ongoing efforts to help our state response to the COVID-19 pandemic,” Kelly said. “I particularly appreciate the assistance from Senator Pat Roberts and Senator Jerry Moran.”&nbsp;Kansas Department of Health and Environment is working closely with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention to test and contain recent clusters of positive coronavirus cases in Kansas counties centered around food and meat processing plants.“In order to fight this pandemic, collaboration at the state, local and federal level is paramount,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Expanded testing and additional supplies from the federal level will equip and inform our state and local health officials as they work to protect the health of Kansans.”The plants in southwest Kansas account for 25 to 30% of the country’s beef processing. “Agriculture is a facet of&nbsp;our state’s&nbsp;most&nbsp;critical infrastructure –&nbsp;Kansas&nbsp;doesn’t&nbsp;just feed the state, we feed the world,” Kelly said. “This is particularly true of our frontline workers in meatpacking plants across the state&nbsp;who process&nbsp;a significant portion of the nation’s supply.”&nbsp;&nbsp;Since the start of this crisis,&nbsp;the Governor&nbsp;and members of&nbsp;her&nbsp;administration have been in communication with&nbsp;those plants and representatives of their employees.The&nbsp;facilities&nbsp;have&nbsp;modified&nbsp;several&nbsp;production and shipping systems and have&nbsp;taken&nbsp;proactive measures including temperature and health screenings, enhanced sanitation&nbsp;and social distancing.&nbsp;&nbsp;In recent weeks, Kansas has struggled to obtain the necessary supplies needed to test and treat coronavirus patients. The State received their allocation of the Strategic National Stockpile in late March. PPE received from the SNS&nbsp;was quickly distributed to counties throughout the state based on population.Kansas is pleased to be able to deploy this collaborative effort between local, state and federal partners to proactively address these clusters in a strategic response to protect the nation’s food supply and the health of our essential food workers.

Coronavirus Update