Governor Laura Kelly will discuss her administration’s&nbsp;statewide COVID-19 testing strategy.

The Governor will be joined&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Governor Laura Kelly will discuss her administration’s&nbsp;statewide COVID-19 testing strategy.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F181713886602771%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>The Governor will be joined&nbsp;Dr. Lee Norman, Secretary of the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

🎥  Gov. Kelly on statewide COVID-19 testing strategy

NEW YORK (AP) — States are rolling back lockdowns, but the coronavirus isn’t done with the U.S.

Cases are rising in nearly half the states, according to an Associated Press analysis, a worrying trend that could worsen as people return to work and venture out during the summer.

In Arizona, hospitals have been told to prepare for the worst. Texas has more hospitalized COVID-19 patients than at any time before. And the governor of North Carolina said recent jumps caused him to rethink plans to reopen schools or businesses.

There is no single reason to explain all the surges. In some cases, more testing has revealed more cases. In others, local outbreaks are big enough to push statewide tallies higher. But experts think at least some are due to lifting stay-at-home orders, school and business closures, and other restrictions put in place during the spring to stem the virus’s spread.

“It is a disaster that spreads,” said Dr. Jay Butler, who oversees coronavirus response work at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “It’s not like there’s an entire continental seismic shift and everyone feels the shaking all at once.”

The virus first landed on the U.S. coasts, carried by international travelers infected abroad. For months, the epicenter was in northeastern states. More recently, the biggest increases have been in the South and the West.

The AP analyzed data compiled by The COVID Tracking Project, a volunteer organization that collects coronavirus testing data in the United States. The analysis found that in 21 states as of Monday, the rolling seven-day average of new cases per capita was higher than the average seven days earlier.

Here’s what’s driving increases in some of the states with notable upticks:

&nbsp;Missouri health officials reported 179 in new confirmed coronavirus cases Tuesday as the state continues to see daily triple-digit increases.

The state's COVID-19 death toll increased to 848 on Wednesday, which was 29 more than on Monday.&nbsp;

Republican Gov. Doug Ducey ended Arizona’s stay-at-home order on May 15 and eased restrictions on businesses. Arizona residents who were cooped up for six weeks flooded Phoenix-area bar districts, ignoring social distancing guidelines.

The state began seeing a surge of new cases and hospitalizations about 10 days later.

“It seems pretty clear to me that what we’re seeing is directly related to the end of the stay-at-home order,” said Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association.

It wasn’t just that the order ended: There were no requirements to wear face masks, no major increases in contact tracing to spot and stop evolving outbreaks, and no scale-up of infection control at nursing homes, he said.

“Those are missed opportunities that, if implemented today, could still make a big difference,” said Humble, a former director of the state Department of Health Services.

Testing has been increasing in Arizona, which increases the chance of finding new cases. But the proportion of tests that come back positive has also been on the rise.

The AP analysis found Arizona had a rolling average of fewer than 400 new cases a day at the time the shutdown was lifted, but it shot up two weeks later and surpassed 1,000 new cases a day by early this week. Hospitalizations have also risen dramatically, hitting the 1,200 mark last week.

The state also passed another grim milestone last week, recording it’s 1,000th death.

Meanwhile Arizona hospitals on Tuesday reported they were at 83% of capacity, up from 78% the previous day. That could force affected hospitals to cancel elective surgeries. Rules established under an executive order Ducey issued in April said hospitals wanting to resume elective surgeries had to have at least 20% of their beds available.

In North Carolina, more testing plus more people out and about during reopening seem to be the main drivers of recent case upticks, said Kimberly Powers, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of North Carolina.

On Saturday, the state recorded its highest single-day increase, with 1,370. While testing has grown in the last two weeks, so has the rate of tests coming back positive.

“These trends moving in the wrong direction is a signal we need to take very seriously,” said North Carolina’s top health official, Mandy Cohen, who along with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper has urged the public to take precautions to protect themselves.

But some state residents are not on board.

“I think they should start opening stuff a little bit more,” said Jason Denton, an electrician from Greenville who said one of his main concerns was getting to the gym.

Few states are rebooting faster than Texas, where hospitalizations surged past 2,100 on Wednesday for the first time during the pandemic. That’s a 42% increase in patients since Memorial Day weekend, when restless beachgoers swarmed Texas’ coastline and a water park near Houston opened to big crowds in defiance of Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s orders.

Texas’ percentage of tests coming back positive has also jumped to levels that are among the nation’s highest. State officials point to hot spots at meatpacking plants and prisons in rural counties, where thousands of new cases have cropped up, but have not offered explanations for a rise in numbers elsewhere.

Abbott, who has recently begun wearing a mask in public, has shown no intention of pumping the brake on reopening a state where conservative protesters in May pressured him to speed up the timeline on getting hair salons back in business.

On Friday, Texas is set to lift even more restrictions and let restaurant dining rooms reopen at nearly full capacity.

In Alabama, outbreaks in nursing homes and poultry plants helped drive state numbers upward, though there was a drop more recently. But that may change — there is evidence of community transmission in the capital, Montgomery, which has become an emerging hot spot, said State Health Officer Scott Harris.

“I think reopening the economy gave a lot of people the wrong impression … that, ‘Hey everything is fine. Let’s go back to normal,’” Harris said. “Clearly, it is not that way. Really, now more than ever we need people to stay 6 feet apart, wear face coverings and wash their hands.”

Montgomery hospital intensive care units are as busy as during flu season.

“I can assure you that Montgomery’s cases are not going down, and if our community does not take this seriously, the virus will continue to spread, and at some point, our medical capacity will reach its limit,” Dr. David Thrasher, director of respiratory therapy at Jackson Hospital, said in a statement.

Arkansas has also seen increases — in cases, hospitalizations and the percentage of tests that come back positive. But the state’s situation is a complicated story of different outbreaks at different times, said Dr. Nate Smith, director of the Arkansas Department of Health.

After a peak in April, levels were low until spikes began about three weeks ago — mainly in the cities of Rogers and Springdale in the northwest and in De Queen further south. The cases have been concentrated among Hispanics and those who work in chicken production facilities.

The chicken plants never were closed, Smith said. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Wednesday said the state will move into a new phase of reopening, starting Monday.

Experts are wondering what will happen in the next week or so, in the wake of nationwide protests following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police.

The protests were outdoors, which reduces the likelihood of virus spread, and many participants have worn masks and taken other precautions. But it’s a lot of people close together, chanting, singing and yelling.

“Hopefully we won’t see a big spike. But those data aren’t in yet,” Humble said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591208066312.png" alt="Photo Sedgwick County Health Department" />
 <figcaption>Photo Sedgwick County Health Department</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — States are rolling back lockdowns, but the coronavirus isn’t done with the U.S.Cases are rising in nearly half the states, according to an Associated Press analysis, a worrying trend that could worsen as people return to work and venture out during the summer.In Arizona, hospitals have been told to prepare for the worst. Texas has more hospitalized COVID-19 patients than at any time before. And the governor of North Carolina said recent jumps caused him to rethink plans to reopen schools or businesses.There is no single reason to explain all the surges. In some cases, more testing has revealed more cases. In others, local outbreaks are big enough to push statewide tallies higher. But experts think at least some are due to lifting stay-at-home orders, school and business closures, and other restrictions put in place during the spring to stem the virus’s spread.The virus is also gradually fanning out.“It is a disaster that spreads,” said Dr. Jay Butler, who oversees coronavirus response work at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “It’s not like there’s an entire continental seismic shift and everyone feels the shaking all at once.”The virus first landed on the U.S. coasts, carried by international travelers infected abroad. For months, the epicenter was in northeastern states. More recently, the biggest increases have been in the South and the West.The AP analyzed data compiled by The COVID Tracking Project, a volunteer organization that collects coronavirus testing data in the United States. The analysis found that in 21 states as of Monday, the rolling seven-day average of new cases per capita was higher than the average seven days earlier.Here’s what’s driving increases in some of the states with notable upticks:MISSOURI&nbsp;Missouri health officials reported 179 in new confirmed coronavirus cases Tuesday as the state continues to see daily triple-digit increases.The state's COVID-19 death toll increased to 848 on Wednesday, which was 29 more than on Monday.&nbsp;ARIZONARepublican Gov. Doug Ducey ended Arizona’s stay-at-home order on May 15 and eased restrictions on businesses. Arizona residents who were cooped up for six weeks flooded Phoenix-area bar districts, ignoring social distancing guidelines.The state began seeing a surge of new cases and hospitalizations about 10 days later.“It seems pretty clear to me that what we’re seeing is directly related to the end of the stay-at-home order,” said Will Humble, executive director of the Arizona Public Health Association.It wasn’t just that the order ended: There were no requirements to wear face masks, no major increases in contact tracing to spot and stop evolving outbreaks, and no scale-up of infection control at nursing homes, he said.“Those are missed opportunities that, if implemented today, could still make a big difference,” said Humble, a former director of the state Department of Health Services.Testing has been increasing in Arizona, which increases the chance of finding new cases. But the proportion of tests that come back positive has also been on the rise.The AP analysis found Arizona had a rolling average of fewer than 400 new cases a day at the time the shutdown was lifted, but it shot up two weeks later and surpassed 1,000 new cases a day by early this week. Hospitalizations have also risen dramatically, hitting the 1,200 mark last week.The state also passed another grim milestone last week, recording it’s 1,000th death.Meanwhile Arizona hospitals on Tuesday reported they were at 83% of capacity, up from 78% the previous day. That could force affected hospitals to cancel elective surgeries. Rules established under an executive order Ducey issued in April said hospitals wanting to resume elective surgeries had to have at least 20% of their beds available.NORTH CAROLINAIn North Carolina, more testing plus more people out and about during reopening seem to be the main drivers of recent case upticks, said Kimberly Powers, an associate professor of epidemiology at the University of North Carolina.On Saturday, the state recorded its highest single-day increase, with 1,370. While testing has grown in the last two weeks, so has the rate of tests coming back positive.“These trends moving in the wrong direction is a signal we need to take very seriously,” said North Carolina’s top health official, Mandy Cohen, who along with Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper has urged the public to take precautions to protect themselves.But some state residents are not on board.“I think they should start opening stuff a little bit more,” said Jason Denton, an electrician from Greenville who said one of his main concerns was getting to the gym.“That’s like my therapy,” he said.TEXASFew states are rebooting faster than Texas, where hospitalizations surged past 2,100 on Wednesday for the first time during the pandemic. That’s a 42% increase in patients since Memorial Day weekend, when restless beachgoers swarmed Texas’ coastline and a water park near Houston opened to big crowds in defiance of Republican Gov. Greg Abbott’s orders.Texas’ percentage of tests coming back positive has also jumped to levels that are among the nation’s highest. State officials point to hot spots at meatpacking plants and prisons in rural counties, where thousands of new cases have cropped up, but have not offered explanations for a rise in numbers elsewhere.Abbott, who has recently begun wearing a mask in public, has shown no intention of pumping the brake on reopening a state where conservative protesters in May pressured him to speed up the timeline on getting hair salons back in business.On Friday, Texas is set to lift even more restrictions and let restaurant dining rooms reopen at nearly full capacity.ALABAMAIn Alabama, outbreaks in nursing homes and poultry plants helped drive state numbers upward, though there was a drop more recently. But that may change — there is evidence of community transmission in the capital, Montgomery, which has become an emerging hot spot, said State Health Officer Scott Harris.“I think reopening the economy gave a lot of people the wrong impression … that, ‘Hey everything is fine. Let’s go back to normal,’” Harris said. “Clearly, it is not that way. Really, now more than ever we need people to stay 6 feet apart, wear face coverings and wash their hands.”Montgomery hospital intensive care units are as busy as during flu season.“I can assure you that Montgomery’s cases are not going down, and if our community does not take this seriously, the virus will continue to spread, and at some point, our medical capacity will reach its limit,” Dr. David Thrasher, director of respiratory therapy at Jackson Hospital, said in a statement.ARKANSASArkansas has also seen increases — in cases, hospitalizations and the percentage of tests that come back positive. But the state’s situation is a complicated story of different outbreaks at different times, said Dr. Nate Smith, director of the Arkansas Department of Health.After a peak in April, levels were low until spikes began about three weeks ago — mainly in the cities of Rogers and Springdale in the northwest and in De Queen further south. The cases have been concentrated among Hispanics and those who work in chicken production facilities.The chicken plants never were closed, Smith said. Republican Gov. Asa Hutchinson on Wednesday said the state will move into a new phase of reopening, starting Monday.LOOKING AHEADExperts are wondering what will happen in the next week or so, in the wake of nationwide protests following the death of George Floyd at the hands of police.The protests were outdoors, which reduces the likelihood of virus spread, and many participants have worn masks and taken other precautions. But it’s a lot of people close together, chanting, singing and yelling.“Hopefully we won’t see a big spike. But those data aren’t in yet,” Humble said.

Alarming rise in virus cases as states roll back lockdowns

SEDGWICK COUNTY — The Church of the Magdalen,&nbsp;12626 E 21st St N in Wichita is temporarily close for at least two weeks after a priest reported he tested positive for COVID-19.

According to the Diocese of Wichita, the priest&nbsp;woke up feeling ill on Wednesday and after speaking with a doctor, went in for a test and received a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. 

Since the priest live together in the rectory, a second priest is now also required to quarantine for 14 days.

Out of an abundance of&nbsp;caution, the priest and the church staff have determined the following measures need to be taken, effective immediately. All Masses—including Sunday Masses, confessions, and Eucharistic Adoration are temporarily suspended

Livestreams are temporarily discontinued (Magdalen website will have recommended alternatives shortly)

First Communion, originally scheduled for this weekend, is postponed until further notice

The entire Magdalen campus is temporarily closed

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584219029698.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>SEDGWICK COUNTY — The Church of the Magdalen,&nbsp;12626 E 21st St N in Wichita is temporarily close for at least two weeks after a priest reported he tested positive for COVID-19.According to the Diocese of Wichita, the priest&nbsp;woke up feeling ill on Wednesday and after speaking with a doctor, went in for a test and received a positive COVID-19 diagnosis. Since the priest live together in the rectory, a second priest is now also required to quarantine for 14 days.Out of an abundance of&nbsp;caution, the priest and the church staff have determined the following measures need to be taken, effective immediately. All Masses—including Sunday Masses, confessions, and Eucharistic Adoration are temporarily suspendedLivestreams are temporarily discontinued (Magdalen website will have recommended alternatives shortly)First Communion, originally scheduled for this weekend, is postponed until further noticeThe entire Magdalen campus is temporarily closed

Coronavirus shuts down Kan. church after priest tests positive

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday. Updates are now provided on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

The Saline County Health Department has an additional case of COVID-19 to report today:

•Male in his 20’s that is associated with another positive case and is isolated at home.

The Health Department continues to actively monitor two other cases who are isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation. This new case brings the total number of cases for Saline County to 32.

KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:

•A total of 10,812 cases with 240 deaths reported.

•There have been 112,930 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.

•The age range is 0 years to 103 years (median 41 years).

•The Salina Municipal Court will resume regular hearings beginning with the regular court schedule the week of June 8th, 2020. If you have questions on an upcoming case, please contact them at 785-826-7230.

•The Salina Household Hazardous Waste Facility will reopen on Thursday, June 18th. For questions, please call 785-826-6638.

•Driver’s License Offices (DMV) are open by appointment only. In Saline County/Salina, contact 785-825-0321 to schedule an appointment.

Phase 3 allows for all businesses, events, and activities to be open with mass gatherings limited to 50 people or less. Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, continues to emphasize that, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.” Here is what you can do to help us continue to reach reopening milestones:

•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings

•Avoid socializing with large groups

•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs

•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated

Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Following is the Saline County COVID-19 update for Wednesday. Updates are now provided on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.The Saline County Health Department has an additional case of COVID-19 to report today:•Male in his 20’s that is associated with another positive case and is isolated at home.The Health Department continues to actively monitor two other cases who are isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation. This new case brings the total number of cases for Saline County to 32.KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:•A total of 10,812 cases with 240 deaths reported.•There have been 112,930 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.•The age range is 0 years to 103 years (median 41 years).Announcements:•The Salina Municipal Court will resume regular hearings beginning with the regular court schedule the week of June 8th, 2020. If you have questions on an upcoming case, please contact them at 785-826-7230.•The Salina Household Hazardous Waste Facility will reopen on Thursday, June 18th. For questions, please call 785-826-6638.•Driver’s License Offices (DMV) are open by appointment only. In Saline County/Salina, contact 785-825-0321 to schedule an appointment.Phase 3 allows for all businesses, events, and activities to be open with mass gatherings limited to 50 people or less. Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, continues to emphasize that, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.” Here is what you can do to help us continue to reach reopening milestones:•Stay home if you’re sick•Wear masks in public settings•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings•Avoid socializing with large groups•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs•Minimize nonessential travel•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated•Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Saline County reports new COVID-19 case; total now at 32

TOPEKA— The number of confirmed coronavirus cases in Kansas increased by 162 to a total of 10,812, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;

<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 162 to a total of 10,812, the state health department reported Wednesday afternoon.&nbsp;Coronavirus deaths were reported at 240<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas">Click here&nbsp;</a>for additional numbers from the KDHE.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591809929925.png" alt="June 10, 2020 KDHE image" />
 <figcaption>June 10, 2020 KDHE image</figcaption>
 </figure>

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

WASHINGTON —U.S. meatpacking facilities are operating at more than 95 percent of average capacity when compared to 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue applauded the data, attributing the operations to the safe reopening of the facilities. 

USDA says beef facilities are operating at 98 percent, pork facilities are operating at 95 percent, and poultry facilities are operating at 98 percent of their capacity compared to the same time last year. 

Secretary Perdue thanked the industry and its workers, for "quickly getting their operations back up and running." USDA says the facilities are safely resuming operations following an executive order by President Donald Trump to implement safety guidelines to protect workers from COVID-19. 

The closures led to shortages at grocery stores and a backlog of animals ready to slaughter, creating depressed prices for farmers, yet higher prices for consumers. USDA says it will continue to work with safety officials to keep the facilities open while maintaining worker safety.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589997636847.png" alt="Workers wearing protective clothing -Photo courtesy Tyson Foods" />
 <figcaption>Workers wearing protective clothing -Photo courtesy Tyson Foods</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON —U.S. meatpacking facilities are operating at more than 95 percent of average capacity when compared to 2019, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue applauded the data, attributing the operations to the safe reopening of the facilities. USDA says beef facilities are operating at 98 percent, pork facilities are operating at 95 percent, and poultry facilities are operating at 98 percent of their capacity compared to the same time last year. Secretary Perdue thanked the industry and its workers, for "quickly getting their operations back up and running." USDA says the facilities are safely resuming operations following an executive order by President Donald Trump to implement safety guidelines to protect workers from COVID-19. The closures led to shortages at grocery stores and a backlog of animals ready to slaughter, creating depressed prices for farmers, yet higher prices for consumers. USDA says it will continue to work with safety officials to keep the facilities open while maintaining worker safety.

USDA: Meatpacking facilities near full operation of 2019 capacity

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas will offer voluntary buyout packages to some faculty members as it grapples with financial losses from the coronavirus pandemic.

Chancellor Douglas Girod has said the university faces a budget shortfall of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/96e7e3cfef7e6d0041dfe3c908fd4389">at least $120</a>&nbsp;million in the fiscal year that begins July 1 due to virus-related shutdowns.

Provost Barbara Bichelmeyer said in a Monday message to faculty and staff members that eligible employees must be age 62 or older and meet other requirements.

“This was not an easy decision, however, it is one that will help enable the university to plan and forecast its continued capacity to provide high-quality educational experiences and exceptional research on our Lawrence and Edwards campuses long into the future,” Bichelmeyer said.

Applicants accepted into the Voluntary Separation Incentive Program will receive a lump-sum cash payment of $100,000 or their fiscal year 2021 budgeted base salary, whichever is lower. They must retire by Dec. 31 and would not be eligible for rehire at the university for 12 months.

Between 500 and 600 faculty and staff are likely eligible for the program, said university spokeswoman Erinn Barcomb-Peterson.

LAWRENCE, Kan. (AP) — The University of Kansas will offer voluntary buyout packages to some faculty members as it grapples with financial losses from the coronavirus pandemic.Chancellor Douglas Girod has said the university faces a budget shortfall of&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/96e7e3cfef7e6d0041dfe3c908fd4389">at least $120</a>&nbsp;million in the fiscal year that begins July 1 due to virus-related shutdowns.Provost Barbara Bichelmeyer said in a Monday message to faculty and staff members that eligible employees must be age 62 or older and meet other requirements.“This was not an easy decision, however, it is one that will help enable the university to plan and forecast its continued capacity to provide high-quality educational experiences and exceptional research on our Lawrence and Edwards campuses long into the future,” Bichelmeyer said.Applicants accepted into the Voluntary Separation Incentive Program will receive a lump-sum cash payment of $100,000 or their fiscal year 2021 budgeted base salary, whichever is lower. They must retire by Dec. 31 and would not be eligible for rehire at the university for 12 months.Between 500 and 600 faculty and staff are likely eligible for the program, said university spokeswoman Erinn Barcomb-Peterson.

University of Kansas offers buyouts amid pandemic losses

TOPEKA–The KDHE confirmed the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus at Lansing Correctional Facility is contained. As a result, the Guardsmen who have supported logistics, food and medical services at the facility concluded their mission on June 4.

“The Kansas National Guard is full of highly trained, professional public servants who are ready at a moment’s notice to serve their fellow Kansans,”&nbsp;Secretary Jeff Zmuda, Kansas Department of Corrections said Tuesday.

“We were extremely impressed with their willingness and ability to adapt to their new surroundings and face each task with strength and dignity. On behalf of the department, I want to sincerely thank them for their work.”

The first four Kansas National Guard members arrived at Lansing on April 15 and grew to more than 40 in support of LCF’s COVID-19 response. The Guardsmen were instrumental in monitoring residents for symptoms, carrying out mass testing for the virus and conducting twice-daily health checks. Additional members also provided support in food service, as residents who normally prepare meals were unable to do so while they were quarantined and assisted with the move to the new buildings at the reconstructed facility. Their contributions allowed Lansing employees to remain focused on safety and security tasks with confidence that these services were continuing.

KDHE began assisting KDOC with their COVID-19 preparations in early March and when the situation at LCF escalated, they dedicated a full-time staff member to assist with ensuring the health and safety of the residents. As the agency moves into a new phase of response, the two agencies will continue to partner to determine what additional steps may need to be taken in the future.

“Secretary Lee Norman and Phil Griffin, Director of the Bureau of Disease Control and Prevention at KDHE, have been amazing partners to our agency,” Zmuda said. “They have brought the health expertise that we needed to make sure that our staff received the most up-to-date information on the virus and how to keep the men, women and youth in our care safe.”

With the virus contained, residents, staff and contractors at the facility are moving forward with the resumption of many activities. This includes residents returning to their jobs in food service, laundry and maintenance activities as well as essential private industry jobs. In addition, the contracted medical provider will continue providing all services under the terms of their contract. Activities that expose residents to the community, including visitation, volunteers, mentors, and non-essential private industry jobs will not be resumed at this time.

“While we are resuming many activities, we fully recognize that this virus will still be present for the foreseeable future, so we plan to maintain the mitigation strategies that have been implemented at each of our facilities,” Zmuda said. “This resumption of activities is a first step to normalizing operations at Lansing, but one we will do with an abundance of caution and care.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591738839534.png" alt="Kansas National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are assisting at Lansing Correctional Facility on May 5 supplementing kitchen staff by preparing sack lunches for distribution to residents throughout the facility- photo courtesy Kansas National Guard" />
 <figcaption>Kansas National Guard Soldiers and Airmen are assisting at Lansing Correctional Facility on May 5 supplementing kitchen staff by preparing sack lunches for distribution to residents throughout the facility- photo courtesy Kansas National Guard</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA–The KDHE confirmed the outbreak of the COVID-19 virus at Lansing Correctional Facility is contained. As a result, the Guardsmen who have supported logistics, food and medical services at the facility concluded their mission on June 4.“The Kansas National Guard is full of highly trained, professional public servants who are ready at a moment’s notice to serve their fellow Kansans,”&nbsp;Secretary Jeff Zmuda, Kansas Department of Corrections said Tuesday.“We were extremely impressed with their willingness and ability to adapt to their new surroundings and face each task with strength and dignity. On behalf of the department, I want to sincerely thank them for their work.”The first four Kansas National Guard members arrived at Lansing on April 15 and grew to more than 40 in support of LCF’s COVID-19 response. The Guardsmen were instrumental in monitoring residents for symptoms, carrying out mass testing for the virus and conducting twice-daily health checks. Additional members also provided support in food service, as residents who normally prepare meals were unable to do so while they were quarantined and assisted with the move to the new buildings at the reconstructed facility. Their contributions allowed Lansing employees to remain focused on safety and security tasks with confidence that these services were continuing.KDHE began assisting KDOC with their COVID-19 preparations in early March and when the situation at LCF escalated, they dedicated a full-time staff member to assist with ensuring the health and safety of the residents. As the agency moves into a new phase of response, the two agencies will continue to partner to determine what additional steps may need to be taken in the future.“Secretary Lee Norman and Phil Griffin, Director of the Bureau of Disease Control and Prevention at KDHE, have been amazing partners to our agency,” Zmuda said. “They have brought the health expertise that we needed to make sure that our staff received the most up-to-date information on the virus and how to keep the men, women and youth in our care safe.”With the virus contained, residents, staff and contractors at the facility are moving forward with the resumption of many activities. This includes residents returning to their jobs in food service, laundry and maintenance activities as well as essential private industry jobs. In addition, the contracted medical provider will continue providing all services under the terms of their contract. Activities that expose residents to the community, including visitation, volunteers, mentors, and non-essential private industry jobs will not be resumed at this time.“While we are resuming many activities, we fully recognize that this virus will still be present for the foreseeable future, so we plan to maintain the mitigation strategies that have been implemented at each of our facilities,” Zmuda said. “This resumption of activities is a first step to normalizing operations at Lansing, but one we will do with an abundance of caution and care.”

KDHE: Coronavirus outbreak at Kansas prison is contained

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas counties “shouldn’t feel pressure” to loosen restrictions if they aren’t seeing a decline in new coronavirus cases or new hospitalizations, Gov. Laura Kelly said Monday, with cases increasing faster in the four most populous counties than the state as a whole.

Kelly said she’s feeling hopeful because Kansas is making enough progress in containing the novel coronavirus for most of the state’s 105 counties to loosen restrictions further. Her office and the state Department of Health and Environment are advising local officials that as of Monday they can allow mass gatherings of up to 45 people, permit non-essential travel and open swimming pools and summer camps.

But she and Dr. Lee Norman, the health department’s top administrator, acknowledged there are counties not seeing a drop in new cases and hospitalizations or are likely to see declines halt. Norman listed three of the state’s four most populous counties — Sedgwick, Shawnee and Wyandotte — as examples.

The state health department reported Monday that Kansas saw coronavirus cases increase 2.5% from Friday, up 257 to a total of 10,650 since the pandemic reached the state in early March. The three counties Norman mentioned, plus Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, together accounted for 55% of the new cases since last week.

“Counties that have plateaued or that are trending in the wrong direction should’t feel pressure,” Kelly said, adding that they’re encouraged to keep current restrictions in place “until they see improvement.”

The Democratic governor imposed a statewide stay-at-home order from March 30 through May 3, then mandated a phased reopening of the state’s economy. However, she converted her requirements into guidelines for local officials on May 26, lifting statewide restrictions in favor of letting counties set their own rules.

Her action was a major concession to the Republican-controlled Legislature after many GOP members had complained for weeks that Kelly was moving too slowly to reopen the economy. The governor also agreed to some limits on her power to direct the state’s response to the pandemic to help persuade lawmakers to extend a state of emergency until at least Sept. 15.

Kelly signed a bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/56291b90279c36bafb21087cdc845c8a">approved by lawmakers last week.</a>&nbsp;It limits Kelly’s power to close businesses statewide again and gives legislative leaders some oversight of the pandemic response, including how the state will spend $1.25 billion in federal relief funds.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020s/b2020s/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2016_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">The legislation&nbsp;</a>is expected to take effect later this week.

As of Monday, 62% of the state’s 236 reported COVID-19-related deaths were in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in the Kansas City area, the state’s first virus hot spot. Both counties are seeing cases increase faster than in the state as a whole.

The state health department said Wyandotte County had 52 new cases since Friday, an increase of 3.4%, to make the total 1,560, and the county is reporting 75 COVID-19-related deaths. Johnson County saw another 38 cases since Friday, to bring its total to 977 for an increase of 4%, with a total of 71 deaths since the pandemic began.

Sedgwick County, home to the state’s largest city of Wichita, saw a 5.8% jump in cases, up 36 to 660. It is reporting 22 deaths.

Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, had 15 more cases since Friday, an increase of 4.1% to 384 total. It reported seven deaths.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas counties “shouldn’t feel pressure” to loosen restrictions if they aren’t seeing a decline in new coronavirus cases or new hospitalizations, Gov. Laura Kelly said Monday, with cases increasing faster in the four most populous counties than the state as a whole.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F592899934976032%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 said she’s feeling hopeful because Kansas is making enough progress in containing the novel coronavirus for most of the state’s 105 counties to loosen restrictions further. Her office and the state Department of Health and Environment are advising local officials that as of Monday they can allow mass gatherings of up to 45 people, permit non-essential travel and open swimming pools and summer camps.But she and Dr. Lee Norman, the health department’s top administrator, acknowledged there are counties not seeing a drop in new cases and hospitalizations or are likely to see declines halt. Norman listed three of the state’s four most populous counties — Sedgwick, Shawnee and Wyandotte — as examples.The state health department reported Monday that Kansas saw coronavirus cases increase 2.5% from Friday, up 257 to a total of 10,650 since the pandemic reached the state in early March. The three counties Norman mentioned, plus Johnson County, the state’s most populous county, together accounted for 55% of the new cases since last week.“Counties that have plateaued or that are trending in the wrong direction should’t feel pressure,” Kelly said, adding that they’re encouraged to keep current restrictions in place “until they see improvement.”The Democratic governor imposed a statewide stay-at-home order from March 30 through May 3, then mandated a phased reopening of the state’s economy. However, she converted her requirements into guidelines for local officials on May 26, lifting statewide restrictions in favor of letting counties set their own rules.Her action was a major concession to the Republican-controlled Legislature after many GOP members had complained for weeks that Kelly was moving too slowly to reopen the economy. The governor also agreed to some limits on her power to direct the state’s response to the pandemic to help persuade lawmakers to extend a state of emergency until at least Sept. 15.Kelly signed a bill&nbsp;<a href="https://apnews.com/56291b90279c36bafb21087cdc845c8a">approved by lawmakers last week.</a>&nbsp;It limits Kelly’s power to close businesses statewide again and gives legislative leaders some oversight of the pandemic response, including how the state will spend $1.25 billion in federal relief funds.&nbsp;<a href="http://www.kslegislature.org/li_2020s/b2020s/measures/documents/supp_note_hb2016_01_0000.pdf" target="_blank">The legislation&nbsp;</a>is expected to take effect later this week.As of Monday, 62% of the state’s 236 reported COVID-19-related deaths were in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in the Kansas City area, the state’s first virus hot spot. Both counties are seeing cases increase faster than in the state as a whole.The state health department said Wyandotte County had 52 new cases since Friday, an increase of 3.4%, to make the total 1,560, and the county is reporting 75 COVID-19-related deaths. Johnson County saw another 38 cases since Friday, to bring its total to 977 for an increase of 4%, with a total of 71 deaths since the pandemic began.Sedgwick County, home to the state’s largest city of Wichita, saw a 5.8% jump in cases, up 36 to 660. It is reporting 22 deaths.Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, had 15 more cases since Friday, an increase of 4.1% to 384 total. It reported seven deaths.___

🎥  Governor: Kansas counties shouldn't feel push to ease rules

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Coronavirus cases are increasing faster in Kansas’ four most populous counties than they are in the state as a whole, accounting Monday for the majority of new cases reported since last week.

The state Department of Health and Environment said that Kansas has had 10,650 coronavirus cases since the pandemic arrived in early March, up 257 or 2.5% since Friday. The number of COVID-19-related deaths rose by four to 236 total since early March, the department said.

The number of cases is growing faster in the state’s portion of the Kansas City metropolitan area, the first hot spot for the state and where the first novel coronavirus cases were confirmed.

The state said Wyandotte County had 52 new cases since Friday, an increase of 3.4%, to make the total 1,560. Neighboring Johnson County saw another 38 cases since Friday, to bring its total to 977 for an increase of 4%.

Sedgwick County, home to the state’s largest city of Wichita, saw a 5.8% jump in cases, up 36 to 660. Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, had 15 more cases since Friday, an increase of 4.1% to 384 total.

Those four most-populous counties had 55% of the new cases since Friday.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591654770731.png" alt="KDHE Sec. Dr. Lee Norman during Monday's press briefing" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Sec. Dr. Lee Norman during Monday's press briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Coronavirus cases are increasing faster in Kansas’ four most populous counties than they are in the state as a whole, accounting Monday for the majority of new cases reported since last week.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591636362685.png" alt="KDHE Map June 8, 2020" />
 <figcaption>KDHE Map June 8, 2020</figcaption>
 </figure>The state Department of Health and Environment said that Kansas has had 10,650 coronavirus cases since the pandemic arrived in early March, up 257 or 2.5% since Friday. The number of COVID-19-related deaths rose by four to 236 total since early March, the department said.The number of cases is growing faster in the state’s portion of the Kansas City metropolitan area, the first hot spot for the state and where the first novel coronavirus cases were confirmed.The state said Wyandotte County had 52 new cases since Friday, an increase of 3.4%, to make the total 1,560. Neighboring Johnson County saw another 38 cases since Friday, to bring its total to 977 for an increase of 4%.Sedgwick County, home to the state’s largest city of Wichita, saw a 5.8% jump in cases, up 36 to 660. Shawnee County, home to the state capital of Topeka, had 15 more cases since Friday, an increase of 4.1% to 384 total.Those four most-populous counties had 55% of the new cases since Friday.

Populous counties outpace Kansas for rise in COVID-19 cases

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Lansing Correctional Facility is largest single source of Kansas’ 10,393 coronavirus cases, followed by a Tyson Foods meatpacking plant near Garden City, according to a report by state health officials.

The Kansas public health report on the outbreak was generated from Columbia University’s Brown Institute for Media Innovation, which has been gathering government documents related to the coronavirus from around the country. The confidential report from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment lists details of every outbreak in the state as of May 19.

The Lansing prison is linked to at least 846 cases of the virus and six deaths. The Tyson plant had 571 virus cases and one death, according to the report. Several other meatpacking plants in the state also had sizable coronavirus outbreaks.

State officials provided the report to county health departments and left it up to local officials to decide whether to release details of outbreaks in their areas. Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman acknowledged that some states routinely release details of outbreaks.

“You could argue that that’s a good idea as well because you may not be able to ... contact trace everyone,” Norman said. “So an argument could be made both ways. We prefer to let that go to the county.”

The confined conditions at the Lansing prison made it easy for the virus to spread among inmates, but state health officials have said the facility has made significant progress at containing the coronavirus.

“What we’re seeing … is the good result from cohorting inmates away from those that aren’t (positive,” Norman told reporters last week.

Meatpacking plants in Kansas have been linked to at least 2,767 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths. The report says those cases include the Tyson plant near Garden City in Finney County, 503 cases at a National Beef plant in Ford County, 342 cases at a Cargill facility in Ford County and 317 cases at a National beef plant in Seward County

Before the state report was released, local officials were reluctant to release details of the outbreaks at meatpacking plants.

“We have not been publicly reporting on private business or private business COVID-19 status,” Ford County administrator Jonathan Gilbert wrote in an email. “Ford County is a relatively small community and commenting on any cases/number of cases related to a private business can allow for the identification of individual COVID-19 status and we want to avoid that.”

Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said the company’s Kansas facilities are “operating near capacity” but would not provide an update on the number of cases currently associated with the plants.

She said Tyson has implemented a number of safety measures, including employee temperature checks before each shift, providing mandatory face masks, and putting physical barriers between workstations and in break rooms.

National Beef spokesman Keith Welty declined to comment on details of safety measures the company has taken at its plants and did not respond to questions about the level of production at each facility.

“Our focus throughout this COVID-19 situation has been to take the necessary steps to protect the health, wellness and safety of our employees while operating our processing plants producing high quality products to meet the demand of our customers across the United States,” Welty wrote in an email.

Cargill spokesman Daniel Sullivan said the facility is currently operating at about 80% capacity. He said Cargill has implemented temperature checks, installed protective barriers at the plant and has been providing masks to workers. The company is also giving employees up to 80 hours of paid leave for absences related to COVID-19

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.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/5/1589303013090.png" alt="Coronavirus testing in Wichita&nbsp; -image courtesy&nbsp;HealthCore Clinic" />
 <figcaption>Coronavirus testing in Wichita&nbsp; -image courtesy&nbsp;HealthCore Clinic</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The Lansing Correctional Facility is largest single source of Kansas’ 10,393 coronavirus cases, followed by a Tyson Foods meatpacking plant near Garden City, according to a report by state health officials.The Kansas public health report on the outbreak was generated from Columbia University’s Brown Institute for Media Innovation, which has been gathering government documents related to the coronavirus from around the country. The confidential report from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment lists details of every outbreak in the state as of May 19.The Lansing prison is linked to at least 846 cases of the virus and six deaths. The Tyson plant had 571 virus cases and one death, according to the report. Several other meatpacking plants in the state also had sizable coronavirus outbreaks.State officials provided the report to county health departments and left it up to local officials to decide whether to release details of outbreaks in their areas. Kansas Department of Health and Environment Secretary Lee Norman acknowledged that some states routinely release details of outbreaks.“You could argue that that’s a good idea as well because you may not be able to ... contact trace everyone,” Norman said. “So an argument could be made both ways. We prefer to let that go to the county.”The confined conditions at the Lansing prison made it easy for the virus to spread among inmates, but state health officials have said the facility has made significant progress at containing the coronavirus.“What we’re seeing … is the good result from cohorting inmates away from those that aren’t (positive,” Norman told reporters last week.Meatpacking plants in Kansas have been linked to at least 2,767 cases of COVID-19 and 10 deaths. The report says those cases include the Tyson plant near Garden City in Finney County, 503 cases at a National Beef plant in Ford County, 342 cases at a Cargill facility in Ford County and 317 cases at a National beef plant in Seward CountyBefore the state report was released, local officials were reluctant to release details of the outbreaks at meatpacking plants.“We have not been publicly reporting on private business or private business COVID-19 status,” Ford County administrator Jonathan Gilbert wrote in an email. “Ford County is a relatively small community and commenting on any cases/number of cases related to a private business can allow for the identification of individual COVID-19 status and we want to avoid that.”Tyson spokeswoman Liz Croston said the company’s Kansas facilities are “operating near capacity” but would not provide an update on the number of cases currently associated with the plants.She said Tyson has implemented a number of safety measures, including employee temperature checks before each shift, providing mandatory face masks, and putting physical barriers between workstations and in break rooms.National Beef spokesman Keith Welty declined to comment on details of safety measures the company has taken at its plants and did not respond to questions about the level of production at each facility.“Our focus throughout this COVID-19 situation has been to take the necessary steps to protect the health, wellness and safety of our employees while operating our processing plants producing high quality products to meet the demand of our customers across the United States,” Welty wrote in an email.Cargill spokesman Daniel Sullivan said the facility is currently operating at about 80% capacity. He said Cargill has implemented temperature checks, installed protective barriers at the plant and has been providing masks to workers. The company is also giving employees up to 80 hours of paid leave for absences related to COVID-19For 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.

Confidential report details virus outbreaks in Kansas 

ABILENE -- COVID-19 has another victim: the public events at the Central Kansas Free Fair.

The Central Kansas Free Fair board made the announcement in a letter posted on the fair's <a href="http://www.ckff.net/">website</a>. The text of the letter follows.

To the Dickinson County and surrounding communities:

The Central Kansas Free Fair Board has made the decision to cancel all public events for the 2020 fair. The public events include: the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo, the demolition derby, tractor pull, parade, carnival, open class judging, and other entertainment events. This decision was not made lightly and has taken into consideration guidance from the Dickinson County Health Officer, K-State Research and Extension, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and city and county officials. The Fair Board also took into great consideration the financial impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on families, businesses, and the fair board. We appreciate everyone’s understanding of this decision and look forward to making the 2021 fair bigger and better.

The focus of the 2020 fair will be given to the 4-H members. We want to give our 4-Her’s the opportunity to have their exhibits judged in a safe and healthy environment. These judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will limited to exhibitors, immediate family, event volunteers, and staff. Every effort will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits so the public has access to view them online.

Please look for further updates on the livestock auction. The sale committee will be posting information within the next week on the steps being taken to make sure that our exhibitors receive recognition that is due for their hard work and dedication.

Once again, please know this decision was not made easily. We look forward to the continued support and the 2021 fair.

The Central Kansas Free Fair Board

ABILENE -- COVID-19 has another victim: the public events at the Central Kansas Free Fair.The Central Kansas Free Fair board made the announcement in a letter posted on the fair's <a href="http://www.ckff.net/">website</a>. The text of the letter follows.To the Dickinson County and surrounding communities: The Central Kansas Free Fair Board has made the decision to cancel all public events for the 2020 fair. The public events include: the Wild Bill Hickok Rodeo, the demolition derby, tractor pull, parade, carnival, open class judging, and other entertainment events. This decision was not made lightly and has taken into consideration guidance from the Dickinson County Health Officer, K-State Research and Extension, the Kansas Department of Agriculture, and city and county officials. The Fair Board also took into great consideration the financial impacts that the COVID-19 pandemic has placed on families, businesses, and the fair board. We appreciate everyone’s understanding of this decision and look forward to making the 2021 fair bigger and better. The focus of the 2020 fair will be given to the 4-H members. We want to give our 4-Her’s the opportunity to have their exhibits judged in a safe and healthy environment. These judging events, including livestock shows, will not be open to the public and access to the fairgrounds will limited to exhibitors, immediate family, event volunteers, and staff. Every effort will be made to video shows and photograph exhibits so the public has access to view them online. Please look for further updates on the livestock auction. The sale committee will be posting information within the next week on the steps being taken to make sure that our exhibitors receive recognition that is due for their hard work and dedication. Once again, please know this decision was not made easily. We look forward to the continued support and the 2021 fair. Sincerely, The Central Kansas Free Fair Board

Central Kansas Free Fair board cancels public events for 2020

Here's Saline County's COVID-19 update for Friday:

•Female in her 30’s and is isolated at this time.

The Health Department continues to actively monitor one other case who is isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation. This new case brings the overall total of positive cases in Saline County to 31.

With the movement to Phase 3 today, press releases will only be issued on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

•A total of 10,393 cases with 222 deaths reported.

•There have been 103,260 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.

Phase 3 allows for all businesses, events, and activities to be open with mass gatherings limited to 50 people or less. Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, continues to emphasize that, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.”

Here is what you can do to help us continue to reach reopening milestones:

Only follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Here's Saline County's COVID-19 update for Friday:The Saline County Health Department has an additional case of COVID-19 to report today:•Female in her 30’s and is isolated at this time.The Health Department continues to actively monitor one other case who is isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation. This new case brings the overall total of positive cases in Saline County to 31.With the movement to Phase 3 today, press releases will only be issued on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:•A total of 10,393 cases with 222 deaths reported.•There have been 103,260 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.•The age range is 0 years to 103 years (median 41 years).Phase 3 allows for all businesses, events, and activities to be open with mass gatherings limited to 50 people or less. Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, continues to emphasize that, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.”Here is what you can do to help us continue to reach reopening milestones:•Stay home if you’re sick•Wear masks in public settings•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings•Avoid socializing with large groups•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs•Minimize nonessential travel•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated•Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Saline County reports one new COVID-19 case

Here's the Saline County COVID-19 update from Saline County:

The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional cases of COVID-19 to report today.

The Health Department continues to actively monitor two cases who are isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.

KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:

•A total of 10,170 cases with 222 deaths reported.

•There have been 97,883 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.

•Phase 3 is slated to begin on Friday, June 5th. All businesses, events, and activities will be allowed to open and mass gatherings will be limited to 50 people or less with still following social distancing recommendations and disinfection guidelines. Phase Out is slated for June 19th.

Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, stated, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.” Testing rates, COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized, the number of deaths, and our ability to do contact tracing are some of the many things that will go into decisions moving forward. Here is what you can do to help reachreopening milestones:

•Continue to follow the county restrictions in place

Here's the Saline County COVID-19 update from Saline County:The Saline County Health Department does not have any additional cases of COVID-19 to report today.The Health Department continues to actively monitor two cases who are isolated at home. The rest have met the criteria necessary to be considered recovered and have been released from daily monitoring and isolation.KDHE reported the following in their release and can be found at <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus">www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus</a>:•A total of 10,170 cases with 222 deaths reported.•There have been 97,883 negative tests conducted at KDHE and private labs.•The age range is 0 years to 103 years (median 41 years).Announcements:•Phase 3 is slated to begin on Friday, June 5th. All businesses, events, and activities will be allowed to open and mass gatherings will be limited to 50 people or less with still following social distancing recommendations and disinfection guidelines. Phase Out is slated for June 19th.Saline County Health Officer, Jason Tiller, stated, “For all of this to be successful, everyone has to do their part. Every individual has a responsibility and a choice to do what they feel is right.” Testing rates, COVID-19 patients who are hospitalized, the number of deaths, and our ability to do contact tracing are some of the many things that will go into decisions moving forward. Here is what you can do to help reachreopening milestones:•Continue to follow the county restrictions in place•Stay home if you’re sick•Wear masks in public settings•Maximize physical distance (6 feet or more) in public settings•Avoid socializing with large groups•High-risk individuals should only leave the house for essential needs•Minimize nonessential travel•Check-in (via phone/letter/text/email) with friends and family who are isolated•Wash your hands frequentlyOnly follow official sources to obtain information: <a href="http://www.saline.org/coronavirus">www.saline.org/coronavirus</a> or <a href="http://www.kdheks.gov">www.kdheks.gov</a>. Stay Safe &amp; Stay Healthy.

Saline County: No new COVID-19 cases to report

By ELLE MOXLEY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-06-03/kansas-school-districts-funding-looks-good-on-paper-but-deep-cuts-are-expected-this-fall-due-to-the-pandemic">Kansas News Service</a>

Kansas school districts are trying to budget for some pretty big unknowns right now.

No
 one knows if it will even be safe to have students in schools in 
August, and everyone’s worried about the $650 million hole COVID-19 blew
 in the state’s budget. Administrators are worried that if the state’s 
economy doesn’t rebound soon, they’ll have to make deep cuts in the 
middle of next school year.

“There’s not a superintendent that 
isn’t preparing for something like that,” said Glen Suppes, the 
superintendent of the Smoky Valley Public Schools in Lindsborg. “We 
continue to hear optimism from (state education) Commissioner Randy 
Watson, and that schools are a priority for the governor.

“But I’m anxious to see how the tax revenues are going to come in.”

The
 fiscal year 2021 budget that Kansas lawmakers passed in March, before 
the pandemic hit, looked pretty good for public education. K-12 schools 
got an additional $120 million, money that the state’s high court has 
said needs to be spent on schools following <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2019-03-29/times-nearly-up-for-kansas-lawmakers-to-resolve-school-spending" target="_blank">a years-long funding battle</a>.

“The
 problem is that budget, when it was passed, was based on numbers last 
November that have dramatically changed,” said Mark Tallman with the 
Kansas Association of School Boards.

Because of the pandemic, 
Kansas is facing a huge budget shortfall. In an April 20 memo, the 
Kansas Legislative Research Department forecasted an 8% overall decline 
in revenue for the coming fiscal year.

Tallman said in a state that spends more than half its revenue on education, there’s no way cuts won’t touch K-12 schools.

“There
 are certainly things the governor and legislature could do, but all of 
those are kind of bad choices. In a simple world, if you just ... cut 8%
 out of the budget, you're taking very major cuts,” Tallman said.

In
 a big district like Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, an 8% cut would 
be the difference between ending the school year with a $7 million 
surplus — and a $13 million deficit.

And that’s before factoring 
in raises, which are top-of-mind in Shawnee Mission after a protracted 
contract dispute with the teachers union that dragged on for most of the
 school year that just ended.

“I guess I’m one of those that’s 
really concerned about the revenue,” board member Brad Stratton said 
during a budget workshop last week.

Stratton, who was first 
elected to the school board in 2015, wants to budget cautiously for the 
upcoming school year because he knows what happens when revenue 
collections fall short: Education pays the price.

“KSDE (the 
Kansas Department of Education) is presenting one number, and then 
there’s the reality our legislators and governor are going to have to 
face,” Stratton said.

Until
 lawmakers tell the state Department of Education otherwise, though, 
schools are stuck with the optimistic, pre-pandemic numbers.

But 
Kansas school superintendents can’t afford to be quite so optimistic. 
Suppes, the Smoky Valley superintendent, needs to make decisions about 
staffing now before the fiscal year resets July 1.

“Are we going 
to be paying coaches that may not coach a sport in the fall if we're 
shut down? Are we going to be paying bus drivers? And if we don't, yes, 
the district saves money, but on the other hand, there's another family 
without an income,” he said.

On top of that, Suppes says 
superintendents still don’t know what school will look like in the fall 
after the pandemic wiped out the final two months of this past school 
year. 

“Can we touch the playground equipment? Can we sit in the 
lunch room together where we have plexiglass between us at all times?” 
Suppes said. “And how will we even pass through the corridor safely?”

In
 a normal budget year, Wichita Public Schools Chief Financial Officer 
Susan Willis runs four or five budget scenarios. This year, she said 
she’s running 15.

Not only is Willis trying to account for how 
school might be changed by the coronavirus, but she also is trying to 
factor in the timing of potential budget cuts.

“What does it mean 
if they let us start the year with the increase that is due under the 
formula, but they come in with a cut in December? What are our options 
at that point?” Willis said.

Willis
 said Kansas schools are used to dealing with financial uncertainty. 
There was the Great Recession, the tax cuts imposed by former Gov. Sam 
Brownback and the prolonged school funding fight.

“But what makes 
this extremely challenging is we’re not as familiar with how we adapt 
the academic school year ... if we have to social distance,” Willis 
said.

Kansas has gotten $2 billion dollars from the federal 
government to pay for coronavirus-related expenses, like protective gear
 and ventilators. But that money isn’t meant to shore up state budgets. 
That kind of aid could still come — it did during the Great Recession — 
but according to Marguerite Roza, states shouldn’t count on it.

“We
 can’t even sort of look back at the last recession and say, ‘Here’s how
 we know this plays out’ because this is different,” said Roza, who runs
 the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, a research center for 
education financial policy.

Roza said states that delay making 
inevitable budget cuts could fare worse than states that act now to 
restrict spending. Missouri has already slashed K-12 funding by more 
than $130 million. Colorado has warned schools that significant cuts are
 coming.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1591215691151.png" alt="Kansas schools face major uncertainty entering the 2020-21 school year, with many school administrators expecting drastic cuts in the fall once the state's budget fully absorbs the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service " />
 <figcaption>Kansas schools face major uncertainty entering the 2020-21 school year, with many school administrators expecting drastic cuts in the fall once the state's budget fully absorbs the impact of the coronavirus pandemic. Chris Neal / For the Kansas News Service </figcaption>
 </figure>By ELLE MOXLEY <a href="https://www.kcur.org/education/2020-06-03/kansas-school-districts-funding-looks-good-on-paper-but-deep-cuts-are-expected-this-fall-due-to-the-pandemic">Kansas News Service</a>Kansas school districts are trying to budget for some pretty big unknowns right now.No
 one knows if it will even be safe to have students in schools in 
August, and everyone’s worried about the $650 million hole COVID-19 blew
 in the state’s budget. Administrators are worried that if the state’s 
economy doesn’t rebound soon, they’ll have to make deep cuts in the 
middle of next school year.“There’s not a superintendent that 
isn’t preparing for something like that,” said Glen Suppes, the 
superintendent of the Smoky Valley Public Schools in Lindsborg. “We 
continue to hear optimism from (state education) Commissioner Randy 
Watson, and that schools are a priority for the governor.“But I’m anxious to see how the tax revenues are going to come in.”<h2>‘You’re talking very major cuts’</h2>The
 fiscal year 2021 budget that Kansas lawmakers passed in March, before 
the pandemic hit, looked pretty good for public education. K-12 schools 
got an additional $120 million, money that the state’s high court has 
said needs to be spent on schools following <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2019-03-29/times-nearly-up-for-kansas-lawmakers-to-resolve-school-spending" target="_blank">a years-long funding battle</a>.“The
 problem is that budget, when it was passed, was based on numbers last 
November that have dramatically changed,” said Mark Tallman with the 
Kansas Association of School Boards.Because of the pandemic, 
Kansas is facing a huge budget shortfall. In an April 20 memo, the 
Kansas Legislative Research Department forecasted an 8% overall decline 
in revenue for the coming fiscal year.Tallman said in a state that spends more than half its revenue on education, there’s no way cuts won’t touch K-12 schools.“There
 are certainly things the governor and legislature could do, but all of 
those are kind of bad choices. In a simple world, if you just ... cut 8%
 out of the budget, you're taking very major cuts,” Tallman said.In
 a big district like Shawnee Mission in Johnson County, an 8% cut would 
be the difference between ending the school year with a $7 million 
surplus — and a $13 million deficit.And that’s before factoring 
in raises, which are top-of-mind in Shawnee Mission after a protracted 
contract dispute with the teachers union that dragged on for most of the
 school year that just ended.“I guess I’m one of those that’s 
really concerned about the revenue,” board member Brad Stratton said 
during a budget workshop last week.Stratton, who was first 
elected to the school board in 2015, wants to budget cautiously for the 
upcoming school year because he knows what happens when revenue 
collections fall short: Education pays the price.“KSDE (the 
Kansas Department of Education) is presenting one number, and then 
there’s the reality our legislators and governor are going to have to 
face,” Stratton said.<h2>Factoring in cuts and the coronavirus</h2>Until
 lawmakers tell the state Department of Education otherwise, though, 
schools are stuck with the optimistic, pre-pandemic numbers.But 
Kansas school superintendents can’t afford to be quite so optimistic. 
Suppes, the Smoky Valley superintendent, needs to make decisions about 
staffing now before the fiscal year resets July 1.“Are we going 
to be paying coaches that may not coach a sport in the fall if we're 
shut down? Are we going to be paying bus drivers? And if we don't, yes, 
the district saves money, but on the other hand, there's another family 
without an income,” he said.On top of that, Suppes says 
superintendents still don’t know what school will look like in the fall 
after the pandemic wiped out the final two months of this past school 
year. “Can we touch the playground equipment? Can we sit in the 
lunch room together where we have plexiglass between us at all times?” 
Suppes said. “And how will we even pass through the corridor safely?”In
 a normal budget year, Wichita Public Schools Chief Financial Officer 
Susan Willis runs four or five budget scenarios. This year, she said 
she’s running 15.Not only is Willis trying to account for how 
school might be changed by the coronavirus, but she also is trying to 
factor in the timing of potential budget cuts.“What does it mean 
if they let us start the year with the increase that is due under the 
formula, but they come in with a cut in December? What are our options 
at that point?” Willis said.<h2>A new kind of challenge</h2>Willis
 said Kansas schools are used to dealing with financial uncertainty. 
There was the Great Recession, the tax cuts imposed by former Gov. Sam 
Brownback and the prolonged school funding fight.“But what makes 
this extremely challenging is we’re not as familiar with how we adapt 
the academic school year ... if we have to social distance,” Willis 
said.Kansas has gotten $2 billion dollars from the federal 
government to pay for coronavirus-related expenses, like protective gear
 and ventilators. But that money isn’t meant to shore up state budgets. 
That kind of aid could still come — it did during the Great Recession — 
but according to Marguerite Roza, states shouldn’t count on it.“We
 can’t even sort of look back at the last recession and say, ‘Here’s how
 we know this plays out’ because this is different,” said Roza, who runs
 the Edunomics Lab at Georgetown University, a research center for 
education financial policy.Roza said states that delay making 
inevitable budget cuts could fare worse than states that act now to 
restrict spending. Missouri has already slashed K-12 funding by more 
than $130 million. Colorado has warned schools that significant cuts are
 coming.But Kansas lawmakers have historically waited for the revenue consensus to come out in November before balancing the budgets.“If
 states wait longer to revise their budget projections or announce any 
K-12 funding impact, that will send districts further into the future 
before making any spending changes, which could require deeper cuts,” 
Roza said. “The idea is if you can’t start saving money now, you’ll have
 to save more and more suddenly.”Elle Moxley covers education for KCUR. You can reach her on Twitter @ellemoxley.

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