'Just because Saline County doesn’t have a positive case identified, doesn’t mean that it isn’t here.'

Following is the latest update from Saline County concerning COVID-19.

As of 5 pm, March 23rd, 2020, Saline County has not had a confirmed positive case of COVID19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

Governor Kelly announced in her press conference today that she is issuing a statewide ban on public gatherings of 10 or more people. At this time, she is not implementing a statewide shelter in place order.

U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams was quoted this morning on the Today show, “Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now. So, test or no test. We need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else. Or you could be getting it from someone else, stay at home,” he said. The amount of positive cases across the U.S. has increased by over 8,000 in the last 24 hours. Just because Saline County doesn’t have a positive case identified, doesn’t mean that it isn’t here.

We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:

•Staying at home if you are sick.

•Covering your sneezes and coughs.

•If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

<h2>'Just because Saline County doesn’t have a positive case identified, doesn’t mean that it isn’t here.'</h2>Following is the latest update from Saline County concerning COVID-19.As of 5 pm, March 23rd, 2020, Saline County has not had a confirmed positive case of COVID19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.Governor Kelly announced in her press conference today that she is issuing a statewide ban on public gatherings of 10 or more people. At this time, she is not implementing a statewide shelter in place order.U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Jerome Adams was quoted this morning on the Today show, “Everyone needs to act as if they have the virus right now. So, test or no test. We need you to understand you could be spreading it to someone else. Or you could be getting it from someone else, stay at home,” he said. The amount of positive cases across the U.S. has increased by over 8,000 in the last 24 hours. Just because Saline County doesn’t have a positive case identified, doesn’t mean that it isn’t here.We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:•Staying at home if you are sick.•Washing your hands.•Covering your sneezes and coughs.•If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

County: No positive COVID-19 cases confirmed yet

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman addressed the state's battle against coronavirus in Kansas during a Monday afternoon press conference.

TOPEKA— Governor Laura Kelly and KDHE Secretary Dr. Lee Norman addressed the state's battle against coronavirus in Kansas during a Monday afternoon press conference.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGovLauraKelly%2Fvideos%2F142394470500566%2F&show_text=1&width=560" width="560" height="470" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584989395066.png" alt="" />
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🎥 KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas 

TOKYO (AP) — The Tokyo Olympics are probably going to happen but almost surely in 2021 rather than in four months as planned. 

That seems clear after the International Olympic Committee said it was considering a postponement. Major Olympic nations like Canada and Australia are adding pressure by making it clear they will not go if the games are staged this year. 

IOC President Thomas Bach sent a letter to athletes explaining the decision and why it might take so long while also acknowledging the extended timeline might not be popular. He said a final decision was likely to come in four weeks.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/6/1561399224563.png" alt="The Olympic games logo" />
 <figcaption>The Olympic games logo</figcaption>
 </figure>TOKYO (AP) — The Tokyo Olympics are probably going to happen but almost surely in 2021 rather than in four months as planned. That seems clear after the International Olympic Committee said it was considering a postponement. Major Olympic nations like Canada and Australia are adding pressure by making it clear they will not go if the games are staged this year. IOC President Thomas Bach sent a letter to athletes explaining the decision and why it might take so long while also acknowledging the extended timeline might not be popular. He said a final decision was likely to come in four weeks.

Tokyo Olympics seem sure to happen, but in 2021, not 2020

"Hands .. washing hands. Reaching out .. don't touch me. I won't touch you!"

<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Stay safe out there! “Hands... washing hands..” 🎶 <a href="https://t.co/QaRB1qZshp">pic.twitter.com/QaRB1qZshp</a>&mdash; Neil Diamond (@NeilDiamond) <a href="https://twitter.com/NeilDiamond/status/1241584423927074818?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 22, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> </div>"Hands .. washing hands. Reaching out .. don't touch me. I won't touch you!"

Neil Diamond offers up coronavirus update to 'Sweet Caroline'

WASHINGTON — The White House is urging commercial labs to prioritize the testing of hospital patients as they work to clear a backlog of tests for the coronavirus.

<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHouse/videos/223431462181095/">Click here to watch</a> Sunday's Coronavirus Task force briefing

Vice President Mike Pence says the Department of Health and Human Services will issue formal guidance Monday, but that the federal government is encouraging all labs to “prioritize inpatient testing.”

Pence says the government hopes to have the backlog of existing tests — a milestone the White House hoped to reach on Monday — cleared by the middle of the week.

The White House is encouraging those without symptoms against seeking testing, warning it depletes already scarce supplies of personal protective equipment for healthcare providers.

WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says he’s ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ship mobile hospital centers to the hard-hit states of Washington, California and New York amid the coronavirus pandemic. For New York, that would mean another 1,000 hospital beds.

Trump is also revealing for the first time the number of respirators and other personal protective equipment sent to the hard-hit states by the federal government. It comes as state and local leaders have appealed on the federal government to provide far more, and as Trump has held off on using his fully authorities under the Defense Production Act to marshal the private sector’s capabilities.

Trump says it’s up to states to try to get the materials first. He says: "We're sort of a backup for states."

Trump says he’s also giving governors in those three states in calling up their national guard, keeping it under local control but providing federal funding. @Michael Tackett

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584917179545.png" alt="Vice President Mike Pence during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Mike Pence during Sunday's Coronavirus Task Force briefing</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON — The White House is urging commercial labs to prioritize the testing of hospital patients as they work to clear a backlog of tests for the coronavirus.<a href="https://www.facebook.com/WhiteHouse/videos/223431462181095/">Click here to watch</a> Sunday's Coronavirus Task force briefingVice President Mike Pence says the Department of Health and Human Services will issue formal guidance Monday, but that the federal government is encouraging all labs to “prioritize inpatient testing.”Pence says the government hopes to have the backlog of existing tests — a milestone the White House hoped to reach on Monday — cleared by the middle of the week.The White House is encouraging those without symptoms against seeking testing, warning it depletes already scarce supplies of personal protective equipment for healthcare providers.___WASHINGTON — President Donald Trump says he’s ordered the Federal Emergency Management Agency to ship mobile hospital centers to the hard-hit states of Washington, California and New York amid the coronavirus pandemic. For New York, that would mean another 1,000 hospital beds.Trump is also revealing for the first time the number of respirators and other personal protective equipment sent to the hard-hit states by the federal government. It comes as state and local leaders have appealed on the federal government to provide far more, and as Trump has held off on using his fully authorities under the Defense Production Act to marshal the private sector’s capabilities.Trump says it’s up to states to try to get the materials first. He says: "We're sort of a backup for states."Trump says he’s also giving governors in those three states in calling up their national guard, keeping it under local control but providing federal funding. @Michael Tackett___

White House urges labs to prioritize tests for coronavirus

Beginning Monday at 4 p.m. City Commission meetings will take place via telephone conference until further notice. 

Meetings can be viewed on Salina Media Connection via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a>.

To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to dial (785) 621-0800 and enter participant code 782956 followed by #.

If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must dial *9 from their phone to alert the moderator, who will open the line.

For questions or concerns, contact the City Clerk's Office at (785) 309-5735.

This decision to revise the meeting format was made to align with the following:

• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.

• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.

• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.

The following items are on the city commission agenda for Monday.

•General Obligation Bonds and Temporary Notes.

Resolution   No.   20-7814   authorizing   the   offering   for   public   sale   of   General Obligation Temporary Notes and Bonds.

First  reading  Ordinance  No.  20-11029  authorizing  the  issuance  and  delivery of General Obligation Internal Improvement Bonds, Series 2020-A.

Resolution   No.   20-7820   authorizing   the   offering   for   public   sale   of   General Obligation Refunding Bonds.

•Award  contract  for  the  abatement  (removal)  of  nuisances  related  to  property  maintenance for properties within the city limits of Salina for a period of April 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021.

•Temporary COVID-19 Related Personnel Manual Updates.

•Follow-up   discussion   and   explanation   for   the   change   in   the   Downtown   Streetscape  Project  related  to  the  License  Agreement  for  sidewalk  dining  with  Lighthouse Properties III, Inc. at Starbucks on the corner of Mulberry and Santa Fe approved by the City Commission on March 9, 2020.

To view the Salina City Commission agenda and packet, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> and select Salina City Commission Agenda and Packet within the Featured Items feed.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584487791224.jpeg" alt="The City-County Building. Salina Post file photo" />
 <figcaption>The City-County Building. Salina Post file photo</figcaption>
 </figure>Beginning Monday at 4 p.m. City Commission meetings will take place via telephone conference until further notice. Meetings can be viewed on Salina Media Connection via Cox Cable Channel 20 or online at <a href="http://www.salinatv.org">www.salinatv.org</a>.To participate in the meetings, citizens will need to dial (785) 621-0800 and enter participant code 782956 followed by #.If citizens wish to speak, either during the public forum or when the mayor requests public comment on an item, citizens must dial *9 from their phone to alert the moderator, who will open the line.For questions or concerns, contact the City Clerk's Office at (785) 309-5735.This decision to revise the meeting format was made to align with the following:• The President’s Coronavirus Guidelines for America: 15 days to slow the spread, which began on March 16 and involves avoiding gatherings of 10 or more people for a 15-day period.• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s guidance for the next eight weeks, which recommends that organizers (whether groups or individuals) cancel or postpone in-person events that consist of 50 people or more throughout the United States.• Governor Kelly’s Executive Order NO. 20-04, effective through May 1 on social distancing to help slow the spread of COVID-19 in Kansas.The following items are on the city commission agenda for Monday.•COVID-19 Related Budgetary Guidance.•General Obligation Bonds and Temporary Notes.Resolution No. 20-7814 authorizing the offering for public sale of General Obligation Temporary Notes and Bonds.First reading Ordinance No. 20-11029 authorizing the issuance and delivery of General Obligation Internal Improvement Bonds, Series 2020-A.Resolution No. 20-7820 authorizing the offering for public sale of General Obligation Refunding Bonds.•Award contract for the abatement (removal) of nuisances related to property maintenance for properties within the city limits of Salina for a period of April 1, 2020 through March 31, 2021.•Temporary COVID-19 Related Personnel Manual Updates.•Follow-up discussion and explanation for the change in the Downtown Streetscape Project related to the License Agreement for sidewalk dining with Lighthouse Properties III, Inc. at Starbucks on the corner of Mulberry and Santa Fe approved by the City Commission on March 9, 2020.To view the Salina City Commission agenda and packet, visit <a href="http://salina-ks.gov">salina-ks.gov</a> and select Salina City Commission Agenda and Packet within the Featured Items feed.

City revises format for commission meetings

WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House churned late into the night over a now nearly $2 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.

As President Donald Trump took to the podium in the White House briefing room and promised to help Americans who feel afraid and isolated as the pandemic spreads, the Senate voted Sunday against advancing the rescue package. But talks continued on Capitol Hill.

“I think you’ll get there. To me it’s not very complicated: We have to help the worker. We have to save the companies,” Trump said.

Later, the Republican president suggested the remedies may be more harmful than the outbreak, vowing to reassess after the 15-day mark of the shutdown. “WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF,” he tweeted.

Inside the otherwise emptied out Capitol, the draft aid bill was declared insufficient by Democrats, who argued it was tilted toward corporations and did too little to help workers and health care providers. Republicans returned to the negotiating table.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, exiting the Capitol just before midnight, struck an optimistic note: “We’re very close,” he said, adding negotiators would work through the night.

“Our nation cannot afford a game of chicken,” warned Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., his voice rising on the Senate floor Sunday night. His goal is to vote Monday. The Senate will re-convene at noon.

Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, sounded an optimistic note.

“This bill is going to affect this country and the lives of Americans, not just for the next few days, but in the next few months and years — so we have to make sure it is good, he said. ‘”There were some serious problems with the bill leader McConnell laid down. Huge amounts of corporate bailout funds without restrictions or without oversight — you wouldn’t even know who is getting the money. Not enough money for hospitals, nurses, PPE, masks, all the health care needs. No money for state and local government, many of whom would go broke. Many other things.”

But Schumer said they were making progress in dealing with those issues. “We’re getting closer and closer. And I’m very hopeful, is how I’d put it, that we can get a bill in the morning.”

With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week, Washington labored under the size and scope of the rescue package that’s more ambitious than any in recent times — larger than the 2008 bank bailout and 2009 recovery act combined.

Democrats say the largely GOP-led effort did not go far enough to provide health care and worker aid and fails to put restraints on a proposed $500 billion “slush fund” for corporations. They voted to block its advance.

Democrats won a concession — to provide four months of expanded unemployment benefits, rather than just three as proposed, according to an official granted anonymity to discuss the private talks. The jobless pay also extends to self-employed and so-called gig workers.

While the congressional leaders worked into the night, alarms were being sounded from coast to coast about the wave of coronavirus cases about to crash onto the nation’s health system.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had dire, urgent news from the pandemic’s U.S. epicenter: “April and May are going to be a lot worse,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

De Blasio, a Democrat, all but begged Washington to help procure ventilators and other medical supplies. He accused the Republican president of “not lifting a finger” to help.

Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and, during the Sunday briefing, responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to act. He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York, Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard under their control, while the federal government covers the bill.

But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships, some governors, including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas, expressed unhappiness with Washington’s response. The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov. J. B. Pritzker, D-Ill., saying that he and “a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News” should not be “blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.”

This came as Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky announced he tested positive for the coronavirus. Paul, who is a doctor and close ally of the president, said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine.

Paul was seen at a GOP senators’ lunch on Friday and swimming in the Senate gym pool on Sunday morning, heightening concerns. His office said he left the Senate immediately after learning his diagnosis.

A growing list of lawmakers have cycled in and out of isolation after exposure, and two members of the House have said they tested positive. Five senators were in self-quarantine Sunday evening and could not vote.

In recent days, Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act, a rarely used, decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators. Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act.

“We are a country not based on nationalizing our business,” said Trump, who has repeatedly railed against socialism overseas and among Democrats.

Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans, Trump said, “For those worried and afraid, please know as long as I am your president, you can feel confident that you have a leader who will always fight for you.”

But minutes later, when he learned that rival Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was one of those in isolation, he declared, “Romney’s in isolation? Gee, that’s too bad.”

The urgency to act is mounting, as jobless claims skyrocket and the financial markets are set to re-open Monday eager for signs that Washington can soften the blow of the healthcare crisis and what experts say is a looming recession. Stock futures declined sharply as Trump spoke Sunday evening.

Officials late Sunday put the price tag of the ballooning rescue package at nearly $2 trillion. That does not include additional measures being taken by the Federal Reserve to shore up the economy.

Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was leading a third day of nonstop talks on Capitol Hill, said the plan was meant to prop up the nation’s weakened economy for the next 10 to 12 weeks.

Central to the package is as much as $350 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home. There is also a one-time rebate check of about $1,200 per person, or $3,000 for a family of four, as well as the extended unemployment benefits.

Hospitals, Mnuchin said, will get approximately $110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients.

The treasury secretary said a significant part of the package will involve working with the Federal Reserve for up to $4 trillion of liquidity to support the economy with “broad-based lending programs.”

But Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have pushed for add-ons, including food security aid, small business loans and other measures for workers.

They warned the draft plan’s $500 billion for corporations does not put enough restraints on business, saying the ban on corporate stock buy-backs is weak and the limits on executive pay are only for two years.

“We’re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family, or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends,” said Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “We’re here to help workers, we’re here to help hospitals.”

The president, when pressed by a reporter, dodged a question as to whether his own business would seek federal funds.

With Sunday’s failed vote, McConnell angrily blamed Pelosi, who returned to Washington for a top-level meeting, saying she “poured cold water” over the draft plan. But any measure from the Senate also needs to pass the House.

The details are coming from drafts of both bills circulating among lobbyists but not yet released to the public. They were obtained by The Associated Press.

For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.

WASHINGTON — The Senate has refused to advance the coronavirus rescue package in a procedural vote with Democrats rejecting a draft from Republicans and pushing for more aid for workers.

Negotiations are expected to continue into the evening Sunday.

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has urged senators to “signal to the public that we're ready to get this job done.” He wants passage by Monday.

But Democrats have resisted, arguing the nearly $1.4 trillion measure needs to bolster aid and put limits on how businesses can use the emergency dollars.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584959546607.png" alt="Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on the U.S. Senate floor just before 10:30 p.m. Sunday night-image courtesy CSPAN" />
 <figcaption>Majority Leader Mitch McConnell on the U.S. Senate floor just before 10:30 p.m. Sunday night-image courtesy CSPAN</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House churned late into the night over a now nearly $2 trillion economic rescue package, as the coronavirus crisis deepened, the nation shut down and the first U.S. senator tested positive for the disease.As President Donald Trump took to the podium in the White House briefing room and promised to help Americans who feel afraid and isolated as the pandemic spreads, the Senate voted Sunday against advancing the rescue package. But talks continued on Capitol Hill.“I think you’ll get there. To me it’s not very complicated: We have to help the worker. We have to save the companies,” Trump said.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF. AT THE END OF THE 15 DAY PERIOD, WE WILL MAKE A DECISION AS TO WHICH WAY WE WANT TO GO!&mdash; Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump) <a href="https://twitter.com/realDonaldTrump/status/1241935285916782593?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>Later, the Republican president suggested the remedies may be more harmful than the outbreak, vowing to reassess after the 15-day mark of the shutdown. “WE CANNOT LET THE CURE BE WORSE THAN THE PROBLEM ITSELF,” he tweeted.Inside the otherwise emptied out Capitol, the draft aid bill was declared insufficient by Democrats, who argued it was tilted toward corporations and did too little to help workers and health care providers. Republicans returned to the negotiating table.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, exiting the Capitol just before midnight, struck an optimistic note: “We’re very close,” he said, adding negotiators would work through the night.<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">Our nation cannot afford this game of chicken. We cannot afford the cynical partisanship. This is a national emergency. Not a partisan opportunity. Doctors, nurses, small business employees, laid-off Americans, and vulnerable seniors need help right now. <a href="https://t.co/zXPqodt8ZI">pic.twitter.com/zXPqodt8ZI</a>&mdash; Leader McConnell (@senatemajldr) <a href="https://twitter.com/senatemajldr/status/1241929925923397634?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>“Our nation cannot afford a game of chicken,” warned Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., his voice rising on the Senate floor Sunday night. His goal is to vote Monday. The Senate will re-convene at noon.Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y, sounded an optimistic note.“This bill is going to affect this country and the lives of Americans, not just for the next few days, but in the next few months and years — so we have to make sure it is good, he said. ‘”There were some serious problems with the bill leader McConnell laid down. Huge amounts of corporate bailout funds without restrictions or without oversight — you wouldn’t even know who is getting the money. Not enough money for hospitals, nurses, PPE, masks, all the health care needs. No money for state and local government, many of whom would go broke. Many other things.”<div><blockquote class="twitter-tweet">I just spoke in the Senate about how we’re making progress on a bill. The McConnell-GOP bill includes huge bailouts without protections for people and workers and without accountability. It has shortfalls of money for our hospitals &amp; medical workers. This needs to be changed. <a href="https://t.co/7ggVKrwV6l">pic.twitter.com/7ggVKrwV6l</a>&mdash; Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) <a href="https://twitter.com/SenSchumer/status/1241943851708841984?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">March 23, 2020</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>But Schumer said they were making progress in dealing with those issues. “We’re getting closer and closer. And I’m very hopeful, is how I’d put it, that we can get a bill in the morning.”With a population on edge and shell-shocked financial markets poised for the new work week, Washington labored under the size and scope of the rescue package that’s more ambitious than any in recent times — larger than the 2008 bank bailout and 2009 recovery act combined.Democrats say the largely GOP-led effort did not go far enough to provide health care and worker aid and fails to put restraints on a proposed $500 billion “slush fund” for corporations. They voted to block its advance.Democrats won a concession — to provide four months of expanded unemployment benefits, rather than just three as proposed, according to an official granted anonymity to discuss the private talks. The jobless pay also extends to self-employed and so-called gig workers.While the congressional leaders worked into the night, alarms were being sounded from coast to coast about the wave of coronavirus cases about to crash onto the nation’s health system.New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio had dire, urgent news from the pandemic’s U.S. epicenter: “April and May are going to be a lot worse,” he said on NBC’s “Meet the Press.”De Blasio, a Democrat, all but begged Washington to help procure ventilators and other medical supplies. He accused the Republican president of “not lifting a finger” to help.Trump urged Congress to get a deal done and, during the Sunday briefing, responded to criticism that his administration was sluggish to act. He cited his cooperation with the three states hardest hit — New York, Washington and California — and invoked a measure to give governors flexibility in calling up the national guard under their control, while the federal government covers the bill.But even as Trump stressed federal-local partnerships, some governors, including Republican Greg Abbott of Texas, expressed unhappiness with Washington’s response. The president himself took a swipe hours earlier at Gov. J. B. Pritzker, D-Ill., saying that he and “a very small group of certain other Governors, together with Fake News” should not be “blaming the Federal Government for their own shortcomings.”This came as Republican Sen. Rand Paul of Kentucky announced he tested positive for the coronavirus. Paul, who is a doctor and close ally of the president, said in a tweet he was not showing symptoms and was in quarantine.Paul was seen at a GOP senators’ lunch on Friday and swimming in the Senate gym pool on Sunday morning, heightening concerns. His office said he left the Senate immediately after learning his diagnosis.A growing list of lawmakers have cycled in and out of isolation after exposure, and two members of the House have said they tested positive. Five senators were in self-quarantine Sunday evening and could not vote.In recent days, Trump invoked the Defense Protection Act, a rarely used, decades-old authority that can be used to compel the private sector to manufacture needed medical supplies like masks and ventilators. Officials said Sunday that it would be used voluntarily and businesses would not be compelled to act.“We are a country not based on nationalizing our business,” said Trump, who has repeatedly railed against socialism overseas and among Democrats.Two days after he lashed out at a reporter who asked about his message to frightened Americans, Trump said, “For those worried and afraid, please know as long as I am your president, you can feel confident that you have a leader who will always fight for you.”But minutes later, when he learned that rival Sen. Mitt Romney, R-Utah, was one of those in isolation, he declared, “Romney’s in isolation? Gee, that’s too bad.”Trump said he was not being sarcastic.The urgency to act is mounting, as jobless claims skyrocket and the financial markets are set to re-open Monday eager for signs that Washington can soften the blow of the healthcare crisis and what experts say is a looming recession. Stock futures declined sharply as Trump spoke Sunday evening.Officials late Sunday put the price tag of the ballooning rescue package at nearly $2 trillion. That does not include additional measures being taken by the Federal Reserve to shore up the economy.Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin, who was leading a third day of nonstop talks on Capitol Hill, said the plan was meant to prop up the nation’s weakened economy for the next 10 to 12 weeks.Central to the package is as much as $350 billion for small businesses to keep making payroll while workers are forced to stay home. There is also a one-time rebate check of about $1,200 per person, or $3,000 for a family of four, as well as the extended unemployment benefits.Hospitals, Mnuchin said, will get approximately $110 billion for the expected influx of sick patients.The treasury secretary said a significant part of the package will involve working with the Federal Reserve for up to $4 trillion of liquidity to support the economy with “broad-based lending programs.”But Democrats, including House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, have pushed for add-ons, including food security aid, small business loans and other measures for workers.They warned the draft plan’s $500 billion for corporations does not put enough restraints on business, saying the ban on corporate stock buy-backs is weak and the limits on executive pay are only for two years.“We’re not here to create a slush fund for Donald Trump and his family, or a slush fund for the Treasury Department to be able to hand out to their friends,” said Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren. “We’re here to help workers, we’re here to help hospitals.”The president, when pressed by a reporter, dodged a question as to whether his own business would seek federal funds.With Sunday’s failed vote, McConnell angrily blamed Pelosi, who returned to Washington for a top-level meeting, saying she “poured cold water” over the draft plan. But any measure from the Senate also needs to pass the House.The details are coming from drafts of both bills circulating among lobbyists but not yet released to the public. They were obtained by The Associated Press.For most people, the new coronavirus causes only mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. For some, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, it can cause more severe illness, including pneumonia.WASHINGTON — The Senate has refused to advance the coronavirus rescue package in a procedural vote with Democrats rejecting a draft from Republicans and pushing for more aid for workers.Negotiations are expected to continue into the evening Sunday.Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell has urged senators to “signal to the public that we're ready to get this job done.” He wants passage by Monday.But Democrats have resisted, arguing the nearly $1.4 trillion measure needs to bolster aid and put limits on how businesses can use the emergency dollars.More voting is possible.

Senate refuses to advance coronavirus rescue package

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending continuity of operations for licensed child care facilities at this time (centers, preschools, day care homes and school age programs, according to a media release from the agency on Sunday.

Child care facilities may accept new enrollees in accordance with the terms of their license.

However, depending on the unique and changing situations of each community, local public health officers may implement more restrictive guidance and provisions for child care facilities, up to and including closure within their authority and jurisdiction.

Child care providers should direct all questions to their local child care surveyor. Surveyors will coordinate efforts and communication with local public health officials to provide guidance based on the rapidly changing situation at the community level.

“We know this is a stressful time, and especially for families who rely on child care and those whose work circumstances are changing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are a number of child care resources available to help you meet the needs of your family. We’re all in this together and will help families access the support they need.”

KDHE continues to accept and process applications for new child care facilities. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed provider are encouraged to contact their local licensing surveyor. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fkidsnet&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157807643&amp;sdata=XFWO4eBCmPSydDeKRc9m9oAfsKKlz2TdmTtqVPXwDzU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE Child Care Licensing</a>&nbsp;website and click on&nbsp;Local County Contacts&nbsp;to find the surveyor in your area.

“Child care professionals provide a critical service in our state,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “They allow parents who are our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters and more to respond to this pandemic. Child care facilities have very strict regulations regarding the number of children in the facility as well as health and safety guidelines that must continue to be met.”

For&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FFAQs_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157812623&amp;sdata=p%2BZLGbVUsvah8ecv8zpCuM%2BmX6JM4F1L9drVTXtHCJA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=WH3eIQwceoPy53RyIl8%2FAeWzaWa1aF2SNYv6RZzzsi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;regarding child care operations during the pandemic, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=sl6hZt4vAFnIVCQLRHCcFwJr%2F06xNJOQP3Srg3dYw7c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>&nbsp;website.

Options for families in need of child care

Many working families are facing challenges related to accessing healthy and safe child care during this time. We encourage everyone to assist with supporting families and communities as they work to develop creative solutions to meet the needs of working families.

<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ks.childcareaware.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157822576&amp;sdata=Bf4%2BRN5ssiXBIAAIi0o2ne9UKQy4Rj5E9yxFdSJR%2B2w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>&nbsp;provides assistance to families searching for licensed child care. They can be reached toll free at 877.678.2548.

KDHE has an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fbcclr%2Fcapp.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157827553&amp;sdata=I1iyqyEvB2SnR9k5mUCtCYQmgjh7uGqQSf0YWGwJKYk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">online information system</a>&nbsp;that serves&nbsp;as a tool to support families in making informed child care choices and can be used to review compliance history of a current licensed provider. The online tool is an important step to verifying that a facility is licensed and provides compliance history for parents and guardians.

Families that need flexible options or irregular care might consider having someone come into the home. Relatives, older siblings, and friends or neighbors currently not working due to COVID-19 related business closures might be available to help.

Other options for families that need limited care include informal care arranged between friends/neighbors on an irregular basis&nbsp;or someone to provide care in their own home for no more than two children for not more than 20 hours week.&nbsp;None of these options require a license from KDHE.

The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) is recommending continuity of operations for licensed child care facilities at this time (centers, preschools, day care homes and school age programs, according to a media release from the agency on Sunday.Child care facilities may accept new enrollees in accordance with the terms of their license.However, depending on the unique and changing situations of each community, local public health officers may implement more restrictive guidance and provisions for child care facilities, up to and including closure within their authority and jurisdiction.Child care providers should direct all questions to their local child care surveyor. Surveyors will coordinate efforts and communication with local public health officials to provide guidance based on the rapidly changing situation at the community level.“We know this is a stressful time, and especially for families who rely on child care and those whose work circumstances are changing,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “There are a number of child care resources available to help you meet the needs of your family. We’re all in this together and will help families access the support they need.”KDHE continues to accept and process applications for new child care facilities. Individuals interested in becoming a licensed provider are encouraged to contact their local licensing surveyor. Visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fkidsnet&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157807643&amp;sdata=XFWO4eBCmPSydDeKRc9m9oAfsKKlz2TdmTtqVPXwDzU%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE Child Care Licensing</a>&nbsp;website and click on&nbsp;Local County Contacts&nbsp;to find the surveyor in your area.“Child care professionals provide a critical service in our state,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “They allow parents who are our doctors, nurses, police officers, firefighters and more to respond to this pandemic. Child care facilities have very strict regulations regarding the number of children in the facility as well as health and safety guidelines that must continue to be met.”For&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FFAQs_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157812623&amp;sdata=p%2BZLGbVUsvah8ecv8zpCuM%2BmX6JM4F1L9drVTXtHCJA%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">FAQs</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus%2Ftoolkit%2FInterim_Guidance_for_Child_Care_Facilities_Licensed_by_KDHE_03_19_2020.pdf&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=WH3eIQwceoPy53RyIl8%2FAeWzaWa1aF2SNYv6RZzzsi8%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">guidance</a>&nbsp;regarding child care operations during the pandemic, please visit the&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fcoronavirus&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157817598&amp;sdata=sl6hZt4vAFnIVCQLRHCcFwJr%2F06xNJOQP3Srg3dYw7c%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">KDHE COVID-19 Resource Center</a>&nbsp;website.Options for families in need of child careMany working families are facing challenges related to accessing healthy and safe child care during this time. We encourage everyone to assist with supporting families and communities as they work to develop creative solutions to meet the needs of working families.<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.ks.childcareaware.org%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157822576&amp;sdata=Bf4%2BRN5ssiXBIAAIi0o2ne9UKQy4Rj5E9yxFdSJR%2B2w%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">Child Care Aware of Kansas</a>&nbsp;provides assistance to families searching for licensed child care. They can be reached toll free at 877.678.2548.KDHE has an&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.kdheks.gov%2Fbcclr%2Fcapp.htm&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C35a2c78f27be4145315b08d7ce928e96%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637205001157827553&amp;sdata=I1iyqyEvB2SnR9k5mUCtCYQmgjh7uGqQSf0YWGwJKYk%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">online information system</a>&nbsp;that serves&nbsp;as a tool to support families in making informed child care choices and can be used to review compliance history of a current licensed provider. The online tool is an important step to verifying that a facility is licensed and provides compliance history for parents and guardians.Families that need flexible options or irregular care might consider having someone come into the home. Relatives, older siblings, and friends or neighbors currently not working due to COVID-19 related business closures might be available to help.Other options for families that need limited care include informal care arranged between friends/neighbors on an irregular basis&nbsp;or someone to provide care in their own home for no more than two children for not more than 20 hours week.&nbsp;None of these options require a license from KDHE.

KDHE recommends child care facilities remain open

LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino on Sunday issued a “Stay at Home” order as the Douglas County community continues with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19.

<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">Click here to read the full emergency order.</a>

Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and healthcare facilities will remain open, as residents are ordered to remain home except for essential needs.

This&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">order</a>&nbsp;matches recent ones issued in neighboring counties of the Kansas City area, including Johnson, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, to give residents and employers time on Monday to make preparations. The order is effective until April 23, unless otherwise amended.

“With full community cooperation, this proactive public health order can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our Douglas County community,” Marcellino said.

Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must stay-at-home. All community members should stay at home except to perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions, to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care or perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time.

It is all right to go outside for walks if you are not in a group and practice proper social distancing.

Some examples of “essential businesses” including:

The order does not prevent University of Kansas students from moving out of residence halls as they work through a process with KU Housing, and it also does not prevent employees for making a quick trip to get an item from their offices, if needed.

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management and LMH Health.

Douglas County residents can also stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/442/COVID-19-2019-Novel-Coronavirus">LDCHealth.org/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus-response-dgco.hub.arcgis.com/">douglascountyks.org/coronavirus</a>.

For general information, call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463, email COVID-19@ks.gov or call Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health’s Coronavirus line, 785-856-4343 or the LMH Health Coronavirus Line, 785-505-2819.

LAWRENCE&nbsp;– Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino on Sunday issued a “Stay at Home” order as the Douglas County community continues with efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19. <a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">Click here to read the full emergency order.</a>Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and healthcare facilities will remain open, as residents are ordered to remain home except for essential needs.This&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/DocumentCenter/View/2869/DG-Co-Public-Health-Officer-Stay-at-Home-Order-3-22-20">order</a>&nbsp;matches recent ones issued in neighboring counties of the Kansas City area, including Johnson, Wyandotte and Leavenworth counties, and will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24, to give residents and employers time on Monday to make preparations. The order is effective until April 23, unless otherwise amended.“With full community cooperation, this proactive public health order can minimize the impact of COVID-19 on our Douglas County community,” Marcellino said.Vulnerable populations including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions must stay-at-home. All community members should stay at home except to perform essential duties for business continuity or government functions, to get food, care for a relative or friend, get necessary health care or perform activities related to maintaining a healthy lifestyle during this time.It is all right to go outside for walks if you are not in a group and practice proper social distancing.Some examples of “essential businesses” including:<ol>
 <li>Healthcare operations, essential infrastructure and essential government functions.</li><li>Establishments engaged in the retail sale of canned food, dry goods, fresh fruits and vegetables, pet supply, fresh meats, fish, and poultry, alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, and any other household consumer products.</li><li>Businesses that provide food, shelter and social services, and other necessities of life for those economically disadvantaged.</li><li>Gas stations and auto-supply, auto-repair and servicing, emergency road services and related services and facilities.</li><li>Banks and related financial institutions.</li><li>Hardware stores.</li><li>Those who work in trades that provide services that are necessary to maintaining the safety, sanitation and essential operation of homes and essential operations or businesses.</li><li>Laundromats, dry cleaners and laundry service providers</li><li>Restaurants and other facilities that prepare and serve food and beverages, but only for delivery or carry out and not for consumption on the premises.</li><li>Home-based care for seniors, adults or children.</li><li>Professional services, such as legal services, accounting services, real estate services, and insurance services.</li><li>Childcare facilities providing services that enable employees exempted in the order to work as permitted, given children are cared for in groups of 10 or fewer.</li><li>Mortuary, cremation and burial services.</li><li>Hotels and motels.</li><li>Manufacturing companies, distributors, and supply chain companies producing and supplying essential products and services.</li>
 </ol>The order does not prevent University of Kansas students from moving out of residence halls as they work through a process with KU Housing, and it also does not prevent employees for making a quick trip to get an item from their offices, if needed.Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management and LMH Health.Douglas County residents can also stay informed as information changes frequently. For more information visit&nbsp;<a href="https://ldchealth.org/442/COVID-19-2019-Novel-Coronavirus">LDCHealth.org/Coronavirus</a>&nbsp;or&nbsp;<a href="https://coronavirus-response-dgco.hub.arcgis.com/">douglascountyks.org/coronavirus</a>.For general information, call the KDHE phone bank at 1-866-534-3463, email COVID-19@ks.gov or call Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health’s Coronavirus line, 785-856-4343 or the LMH Health Coronavirus Line, 785-505-2819.

Lawrence, Douglas Co. join Kansas City with stay-at-home order

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

As of 5 pm, March 22nd, 2020, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.

Our agencies were informed today of updated guidance from KDHE on testing for COVID-19. In their release, starting Monday, March 23rd they are implementing priorities for testing. Due to the widescale shortages of laboratory supplies, testing of COVID-19 that is done at the KDHE lab will be prioritized for specific Kansas patients under investigation. KDHE stated that all other specimens that don’t meet their criteria will not be tested. The testing priorities are set out as such:

• Testing for healthcare workers and first responders who have COVID-19 symptoms.

• Testing for potential clusters of unknown respiratory illness, with priority given to longterm care facilities and healthcare facilities.

• Testing of hospitalized patients with no alternative diagnosis.

• Testing of individuals over the age of 60 who have symptoms of COVID-19 with priority given to people who reside in a nursing home, long-term care facility, or other congregate settings.

• Testing individuals with underlying health conditions that would be treated differently if they were infected with COVID-19.

Any tests that were sent to the KDHE labs prior to March 23rd, will still be tested. KDHE directed healthcare providers to inform patients who present with symptoms compatible with COVID-19 (those with a measured fever of 100.4 (F) or greater and lower respiratory symptoms including cough or shortness of breath) and who are not a high priority for testing, should selfisolate at home or another appropriate location until after resolution of fever and significant improvement in symptoms. This self-isolation could be necessary for 14 days.

Testing swabs are in very short supply across Kansas and the United States. People have been tested in Saline County, but all results have been negative so far. This is not to say that there isn’t a potential positive case in our community. Our agencies are well aware of that potential and can only hope that if a person in our community believes they are positive for COVID-19 that they are self-isolated, monitoring their symptoms and communicating with their healthcare provider.

We need everyone to understand that well people will not be tested. A well person’s results will be negative. We cannot overwhelm the healthcare system, such as the ER and health clinics as they need to be able to care for those that are the sickest. We cannot overwhelm the laboratories with thousands of tests which would significantly delay diagnosing those that are infected. And most importantly, a negative test today does not ensure that you will not be exposed and not be able to be infected later. If travel is not necessary, please stay at home.

This situation continues to change rapidly with the number of cases of COVID-19 in Kansas that is growing each day. Governor Kelly signed two Executive Orders and additional guidance documents were released:

• Executive Oder 20-08 temporarily expands telemedicine allowing for physicians to see patients virtually.

• Executive Order 20-09 provides temporary relief from some motor carrier rules.

• Guidance for workers who visit homes.

• Guidance for supporting families in accessing safe and healthy child care.

Guidance and information are constantly being updated by KDHE. Please visit their site to see the most current information: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>.

• Staying at home if you are sick.

• Covering your sneezes and coughs.

• If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.

As stated before, this is a rapidly changing situation. Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees.

Here's the latest COVID-19 update from Saline County:As of 5 pm, March 22nd, 2020, Saline County has not had any confirmed positive cases of COVID-19. When a positive case is identified in Saline County, the Saline County Health Department will be the only official source to release that information.Our agencies were informed today of updated guidance from KDHE on testing for COVID-19. In their release, starting Monday, March 23rd they are implementing priorities for testing. Due to the widescale shortages of laboratory supplies, testing of COVID-19 that is done at the KDHE lab will be prioritized for specific Kansas patients under investigation. KDHE stated that all other specimens that don’t meet their criteria will not be tested. The testing priorities are set out as such:• Testing for healthcare workers and first responders who have COVID-19 symptoms.• Testing for potential clusters of unknown respiratory illness, with priority given to longterm care facilities and healthcare facilities.• Testing of hospitalized patients with no alternative diagnosis.• Testing of individuals over the age of 60 who have symptoms of COVID-19 with priority given to people who reside in a nursing home, long-term care facility, or other congregate settings.• Testing individuals with underlying health conditions that would be treated differently if they were infected with COVID-19.Any tests that were sent to the KDHE labs prior to March 23rd, will still be tested. KDHE directed healthcare providers to inform patients who present with symptoms compatible with COVID-19 (those with a measured fever of 100.4 (F) or greater and lower respiratory symptoms including cough or shortness of breath) and who are not a high priority for testing, should selfisolate at home or another appropriate location until after resolution of fever and significant improvement in symptoms. This self-isolation could be necessary for 14 days.Testing swabs are in very short supply across Kansas and the United States. People have been tested in Saline County, but all results have been negative so far. This is not to say that there isn’t a potential positive case in our community. Our agencies are well aware of that potential and can only hope that if a person in our community believes they are positive for COVID-19 that they are self-isolated, monitoring their symptoms and communicating with their healthcare provider.We need everyone to understand that well people will not be tested. A well person’s results will be negative. We cannot overwhelm the healthcare system, such as the ER and health clinics as they need to be able to care for those that are the sickest. We cannot overwhelm the laboratories with thousands of tests which would significantly delay diagnosing those that are infected. And most importantly, a negative test today does not ensure that you will not be exposed and not be able to be infected later. If travel is not necessary, please stay at home.This situation continues to change rapidly with the number of cases of COVID-19 in Kansas that is growing each day. Governor Kelly signed two Executive Orders and additional guidance documents were released:• Executive Oder 20-08 temporarily expands telemedicine allowing for physicians to see patients virtually.• Executive Order 20-09 provides temporary relief from some motor carrier rules.• Guidance for workers who visit homes.• Guidance for supporting families in accessing safe and healthy child care.Guidance and information are constantly being updated by KDHE. Please visit their site to see the most current information: <a href="https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus">https://govstatus.egov.com/coronavirus</a>.We cannot stress enough the importance of preventing the spread of diseases by:• Staying at home if you are sick.• Washing your hands.• Covering your sneezes and coughs.• If you have concerns about your health condition, please call your healthcare provider.As stated before, this is a rapidly changing situation. Our local government leaders are working hard and are making difficult decisions as it relates to the best interests of the health and safety of our citizens and employees.

Latest county update: No confirmed cases of COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House are teetering on a nearly $1.4 trillion economic rescue package as the coronavirus pandemic deepens. No final decisions have been made. But the emerging package is expected to include

The measure would provide a quick, one-time stipend of about $1,200 per individual, $2,400 for couples, and $3,000 for family of four. The money would cut off at higher income levels.

An estimated $350 billion would be provided for small businesses to keep making payroll. Companies with 500 or fewer employees could tap up to $10 million in forgivable small business loans to keep paychecks flowing.

Workers who are eligible would receive up to 39 weeks of unemployment insurance through the end of 2020 if they are sidelined by the outbreak. The coverage would be retroactive to Jan. 27.

The bill includes an additional $242 billion in additional emergency funds to fight the virus and shore up for safety net programs. That includes money for food stamps, child nutrition, hospitals, the Centers for Disease Control and public health and transportation agencies.

The measure includes $15.6 billion to augment the food stamp program, which helps feed around 40 million Low income people per year. It’s annual budget is around $70 billion.

The initial GOP plan called for $208 billion in loans to airlines and other industries, which would have to be repaid. Leaders are still negotiating the final number and how the money would be provided by the administration.

Negotiators are still hammering out whether there will be money give to the states, whose governors have requested billions to shore up their budgets.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584913591839.png" alt="Sunday morning,&nbsp;U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hosted a meeting with congressional leadership and Treasury Secretary Mnuchin. "It is time to come together, finalize the results of our bipartisan discussions, and get the CARES Act to the President’s desk.." photo courtesy Sen. McConnell" />
 <figcaption>Sunday morning,&nbsp;U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell hosted a meeting with congressional leadership and Treasury Secretary Mnuchin. "It is time to come together, finalize the results of our bipartisan discussions, and get the CARES Act to the President’s desk.." photo courtesy Sen. McConnell</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) — Top-level negotiations between Congress and the White House are teetering on a nearly $1.4 trillion economic rescue package as the coronavirus pandemic deepens. No final decisions have been made. But the emerging package is expected to includeOne-time checks to AmericansThe measure would provide a quick, one-time stipend of about $1,200 per individual, $2,400 for couples, and $3,000 for family of four. The money would cut off at higher income levels.___Paycheck supportAn estimated $350 billion would be provided for small businesses to keep making payroll. Companies with 500 or fewer employees could tap up to $10 million in forgivable small business loans to keep paychecks flowing.___Unemployment expansionWorkers who are eligible would receive up to 39 weeks of unemployment insurance through the end of 2020 if they are sidelined by the outbreak. The coverage would be retroactive to Jan. 27.___Emergency funding, public healthThe bill includes an additional $242 billion in additional emergency funds to fight the virus and shore up for safety net programs. That includes money for food stamps, child nutrition, hospitals, the Centers for Disease Control and public health and transportation agencies.The measure includes $15.6 billion to augment the food stamp program, which helps feed around 40 million Low income people per year. It’s annual budget is around $70 billion.___Industry aidThe initial GOP plan called for $208 billion in loans to airlines and other industries, which would have to be repaid. Leaders are still negotiating the final number and how the money would be provided by the administration.___State aidNegotiators are still hammering out whether there will be money give to the states, whose governors have requested billions to shore up their budgets.

At a glance: Nearly $1.4 trillion coronavirus rescue package

The Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank is in desperate need of food items. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafoodbank/">Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank </a>Facebook page:

The Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank is in desperate need of food items. From the <a href="https://www.facebook.com/salinafoodbank/">Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank </a>Facebook page:<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fsalinafoodbank%2Fvideos%2F542401589729861%2F&show_text=1&width=267" width="267" height="944" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>

📹Some shelves bare at Salina Emergency Aid Food Bank

NEW YORK (AP) — As in-person worship services are canceled or downsized amid the coronavirus outbreak, some churches across the U.S. are bracing for a painful drop in weekly contributions and possible cutbacks in programs and staff.

One church leader, Bishop Paul Egensteiner of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Metropolitan New York Synod, said some of the 190 churches in his region were unlikely to survive because of a two-pronged financial hit. Their offerings are dwindling, and they are losing income from tenants such as preschools which can no longer afford to rent church venues.

“As much as I’d like to help them, everybody's reserves are taking a hit because of the stock market,” Egensteiner said,

At Friendship Baptist Church in Baltimore, a mostly African American congregation of about 1,100, the Rev. Alvin Gwynn Sr. bucked the cancellation trend by holding services last Sunday. But attendance was down by about 50%, and Gwynn said the day’s offering netted about $5,000 compared to a normal intake of about $15,000.

“It cuts into our ministry,” he said. “If this keeps up, we can’t fund all our outreach to help other people.”

There was a brighter outcome at the Church of the Resurrection, a large United Methodist Church congregation that operates out of five locations in the Kansas City area.

Cathy Bien, the church’s communications director, said about 25,700 people logged in to join online worship last Sunday after in-person services were canceled. That compared to normal Sunday participation of 14,000 worshippers -– 8,000 in person and 6,000 online.

“It blew our minds,” Bien said. “They were coming from all over the country -– a lot of Methodists from other churches.”

The huge turnout didn’t translate into a larger than normal offering, although the church is still processing checks that were sent by some of the worshippers, Bien said. She expressed hope that financial support will remain robust as the church stresses the need to bolster food pantries and other community programs in the face of COVID-19.

t Trinity Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, giving was down modestly last weekend as the church cancelled in-person worship and made the service available online.

The pastor, Walter Kim, said some of his roughly 1,000 congregants have grown accustomed to online giving in recent years, but many worshippers still give in person at the services - an option not available for now.

“We’ll be asking them to sign up (for online giving) or mail a check,” said Kim. He will be urging congregants to bolster the church’s “mercy fund” for use assisting hard-up members of the community as job losses multiply.

In addition to his pastoral duties Kim is president of the National Association of Evangelicals, which represents more than 45,000 evangelical churches. The NAE will be co-hosting a two-day digital summit next week featuring videos from church leaders advising other pastors nationwide how to respond creatively and effectively to the virus outbreak.

The co-host is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/academic-centers/humanitarian-disaster-institute/covid-19/" target="_blank">Humanitarian Disaster Institute</a>&nbsp;at Wheaton College in Illinois, which already has offered resources to churches in response to COVID-19.

“Some changes are going to be required,” Kim said. “The church is a very creative institution. In the end it will find ways of fulfilling its mission.”

In Western Massachusetts, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield has indefinitely cancelled all public Masses, and recently rescinded permission for parishioners to pray individually at their churches.

Funeral Masses were still allowed with a maximum attendance of 25; the diocese said the times of those Masses were not to be shared in the media,

“Lack of access to the churches and Eucharist is particularly difficult for many older parishioners whose entire daily routine is built around getting up, out of the house, and going to Mass,” said the Rev. Mark Stelzer, who has served in the diocese as a parish priest and college chaplain.

The Rev. William Tourigny, pastor of Ste. Rose de Lima Church in Chicopee, Massachusetts, said his parish had a solid financial foundation and expected it could maintain all programs and staff payroll for the time being.

“For smaller faith-based communities with little or no reserved funds, difficult decisions will need to be made,” he said.

Joe Wright, executive director of the Bivocational and Small Church Leadership Network in Nashville said many pastors in the network have been holding regular in-person services, while monitoring the spread of the virus.

“Once the coronavirus rises to the level where it starts hitting smaller groups, then we’ll see even the smaller groups back away and seek ways to gather, probably electronically,” he said.

When that happens, Wright said, financial giving will depend on the church, especially the age of the congregations.

“Some churches with older congregations do not give electronically so the transition to that will be a little bit harder,” he said.

Ron Klassen, executive director of Rural Home Missionary Association, said it’s too early to say how the rural churches he represents are being impacted.

"My sense is that in the past, people rise up and, if anything, the giving might increase,” he said. “People are going to give. They’ll take care of their church and their community.”

In Baltimore, pastor Gwynn worries that tensions might rise past the point that church outreach programs can help.

“With all the uncertainty, I’m afraid this could turn into anarchy,” he said. “Not everybody’s patient. Not everybody’s law abiding.”

He even envisioned the possibility of a stampede toward the goods being doled out after church’s annual food drive.

“My biggest fear right now is what's happening to the minds of our people,” Gwynn said. “How long can we hold them together?’

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584278183206.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — As in-person worship services are canceled or downsized amid the coronavirus outbreak, some churches across the U.S. are bracing for a painful drop in weekly contributions and possible cutbacks in programs and staff.One church leader, Bishop Paul Egensteiner of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America’s Metropolitan New York Synod, said some of the 190 churches in his region were unlikely to survive because of a two-pronged financial hit. Their offerings are dwindling, and they are losing income from tenants such as preschools which can no longer afford to rent church venues.“As much as I’d like to help them, everybody's reserves are taking a hit because of the stock market,” Egensteiner said,At Friendship Baptist Church in Baltimore, a mostly African American congregation of about 1,100, the Rev. Alvin Gwynn Sr. bucked the cancellation trend by holding services last Sunday. But attendance was down by about 50%, and Gwynn said the day’s offering netted about $5,000 compared to a normal intake of about $15,000.“It cuts into our ministry,” he said. “If this keeps up, we can’t fund all our outreach to help other people.”There was a brighter outcome at the Church of the Resurrection, a large United Methodist Church congregation that operates out of five locations in the Kansas City area.Cathy Bien, the church’s communications director, said about 25,700 people logged in to join online worship last Sunday after in-person services were canceled. That compared to normal Sunday participation of 14,000 worshippers -– 8,000 in person and 6,000 online.“It blew our minds,” Bien said. “They were coming from all over the country -– a lot of Methodists from other churches.”The huge turnout didn’t translate into a larger than normal offering, although the church is still processing checks that were sent by some of the worshippers, Bien said. She expressed hope that financial support will remain robust as the church stresses the need to bolster food pantries and other community programs in the face of COVID-19.t Trinity Presbyterian Church in Charlottesville, Virginia, giving was down modestly last weekend as the church cancelled in-person worship and made the service available online.The pastor, Walter Kim, said some of his roughly 1,000 congregants have grown accustomed to online giving in recent years, but many worshippers still give in person at the services - an option not available for now.“We’ll be asking them to sign up (for online giving) or mail a check,” said Kim. He will be urging congregants to bolster the church’s “mercy fund” for use assisting hard-up members of the community as job losses multiply.In addition to his pastoral duties Kim is president of the National Association of Evangelicals, which represents more than 45,000 evangelical churches. The NAE will be co-hosting a two-day digital summit next week featuring videos from church leaders advising other pastors nationwide how to respond creatively and effectively to the virus outbreak.The co-host is the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wheaton.edu/academics/academic-centers/humanitarian-disaster-institute/covid-19/" target="_blank">Humanitarian Disaster Institute</a>&nbsp;at Wheaton College in Illinois, which already has offered resources to churches in response to COVID-19.“Some changes are going to be required,” Kim said. “The church is a very creative institution. In the end it will find ways of fulfilling its mission.”In Western Massachusetts, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield has indefinitely cancelled all public Masses, and recently rescinded permission for parishioners to pray individually at their churches.Funeral Masses were still allowed with a maximum attendance of 25; the diocese said the times of those Masses were not to be shared in the media,“Lack of access to the churches and Eucharist is particularly difficult for many older parishioners whose entire daily routine is built around getting up, out of the house, and going to Mass,” said the Rev. Mark Stelzer, who has served in the diocese as a parish priest and college chaplain.The Rev. William Tourigny, pastor of Ste. Rose de Lima Church in Chicopee, Massachusetts, said his parish had a solid financial foundation and expected it could maintain all programs and staff payroll for the time being.“For smaller faith-based communities with little or no reserved funds, difficult decisions will need to be made,” he said.Joe Wright, executive director of the Bivocational and Small Church Leadership Network in Nashville said many pastors in the network have been holding regular in-person services, while monitoring the spread of the virus.“Once the coronavirus rises to the level where it starts hitting smaller groups, then we’ll see even the smaller groups back away and seek ways to gather, probably electronically,” he said.When that happens, Wright said, financial giving will depend on the church, especially the age of the congregations.“Some churches with older congregations do not give electronically so the transition to that will be a little bit harder,” he said.Ron Klassen, executive director of Rural Home Missionary Association, said it’s too early to say how the rural churches he represents are being impacted."My sense is that in the past, people rise up and, if anything, the giving might increase,” he said. “People are going to give. They’ll take care of their church and their community.”In Baltimore, pastor Gwynn worries that tensions might rise past the point that church outreach programs can help.“With all the uncertainty, I’m afraid this could turn into anarchy,” he said. “Not everybody’s patient. Not everybody’s law abiding.”He even envisioned the possibility of a stampede toward the goods being doled out after church’s annual food drive.“My biggest fear right now is what's happening to the minds of our people,” Gwynn said. “How long can we hold them together?’___

As offerings dwindle, some churches fear for their future

The following list of cancellations, schedule changes, etc., related to the COVID-19 outbreak will be updated as information becomes available.

In addition to the following links to stories, some cancellations, postponements, changes, etc., are listed by day toward the end of the list. BE SURE TO SCROLL DOWN TO SEE EVERYTHING!

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e76afe4afae0f4d5f5dcb51">Ellsworth County restricts gatherings of 10 or more</a>

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7694c0afae0f4d5f5dc8e9">COVID-19: Goodcents gets creative, helps stock fridges</a>

READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7639c6afae0f4d5f5dc356">City of Concordia takes precautions in wake of COVID-19</a>

READ: Dickinson County health officer limits size of crowds

The following list of cancellations, schedule changes, etc., related to the COVID-19 outbreak will be updated as information becomes available.In addition to the following links to stories, some cancellations, postponements, changes, etc., are listed by day toward the end of the list. BE SURE TO SCROLL DOWN TO SEE EVERYTHING!READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e76afe4afae0f4d5f5dcb51">Ellsworth County restricts gatherings of 10 or more</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7694c0afae0f4d5f5dc8e9">COVID-19: Goodcents gets creative, helps stock fridges</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7639c6afae0f4d5f5dc356">City of Concordia takes precautions in wake of COVID-19</a>READ: Dickinson County health officer limits size of crowdsREAD: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e752a60afae0f4d5f5db853">Choices Network, Inc., temporarily closes its office</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e750223afae0f4d5f5daeff">MHS provides update in wake of COVID-19</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e74f1a1afae0f4d5f5dacbc">EatStreet launches no-contact delivery</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e74f04dafae0f4d5f5dac8f">Salvation Army thrift store closes temporarily</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e742608afae0f4d5f5da1e4">CCCC Foundation postpones annual scholarship auction</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e742163afae0f4d5f5da199">Tobacco cessation classes offered by phone, computer</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73f695afae0f4d5f5d9dc8">OCCK Transportation adjusting service levels</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73d94fafae0f4d5f5d98dc">OCCK closing to the public all regional offices</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73cf63afae0f4d5f5d9757">Salina Shrine Circus rescheduled for September</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73c84eafae0f4d5f5d95cb">Access to city, county facilities being restricted</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73bdd7afae0f4d5f5d932e">SPD modifies non-emergency reporting</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73afcbafae0f4d5f5d8f4f">Mounted Patrol &amp; Rescue Squad cancels rodeo</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e73aaa0afae0f4d5f5d8e74">County Treasurer's office implementing restrictions</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e738e09afae0f4d5f5d8a03">Salina Airport Authority office temporarily closed</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e738bc2afae0f4d5f5d89cf">City implements modified public interaction approach</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e72c540afae0f4d5f5d801a">Salina Symphony extends concert postponement to May 31</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e72b771afae0f4d5f5d7e04">Sacred Heart charity auction moves to online format</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e72d6dcafae0f4d5f5d8120">Landmark Apostolic Church moves to online services</a>Read: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e72c057afae0f4d5f5d7f76">Fire on the Mountain tour reschedules</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e72a0ddafae0f4d5f5d7a0a">Salina Animal Services suspends spay and neuter program</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7255baafae0f4d5f5d6b86">Jail town hall moved to virtual webinar</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e7298fcafae0f4d5f5d7853">SRHC: Visitor restrictions heightened</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e727097afae0f4d5f5d6dbc">City closes recycling, hazardous waste facilities</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e717505afae0f4d5f5d60f9">Rolling Hills Zoo closed until further notice</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e715a01afae0f4d5f5d5ef1">City of Salina announces cancellations, closures</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e714a57afae0f4d5f5d5d19">Salina Catholic Diocese cancels most masses</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e713c57afae0f4d5f5d5a12">Hearings in Salina Municipal Court to be rescheduled</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e70f7ebafae0f4d5f5d4ae5">Salina Housing Authority closing to public</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e70f09dafae0f4d5f5d4899">Smoky Hill Museum closes in response to COVID-19</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6ffee4afae0f4d5f5d3d19">Salina USD 305 cancels all activities through May 9</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6ff9e5afae0f4d5f5d3c6c">Tony's Pizza Events Center postpones events through May 11</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6ff89aafae0f4d5f5d3c2e">Salina Public Library closes in response to COVID-19 outbreak</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6fe1caafae0f4d5f5d3899">City Commission and Planning Commission meetings canceled</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6fdbc8afae0f4d5f5d35c8">Salina's Spring Spruce-Up canceled in response to COVID-19 outbreak</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6fd65bafae0f4d5f5d348d">Salina Art Center, Art Center Cinema closed</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6fc2fbafae0f4d5f5d2f4c">COVID-19: Senior center cancels activities for next eight weeks</a>READ:<a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6fcbb4afae0f4d5f5d319f"> Chamber: Mid-America Farm Expo postponed</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6eeec8afae0f4d5f5d20ba">KSHSAA suspends spring sports, activities through March 22</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6ea5efafae0f4d5f5d1a22">A number of local, area school districts closing this week</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6ce561afae0f4d5f5d08f0">KSHSAA cancels regional music festivals</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6c428eafae0f4d5f5d04f1">Bethany Oratorio Society rehearsals suspended</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6c1358afae0f4d5f5d02f8">KWU athletics, other events suspended or cancelled</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6bf9d9afae0f4d5f5cfe34">Dickinson County Health Officer closes all schools in the county</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6bf717afae0f4d5f5cfd6c">Health Department cancels Becoming a Mom classes</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6bd79cafae0f4d5f5cfa05">Eisenhower complex in Abilene closing to public because of COVID-19</a>READ: <a href="https://salinapost.com/posts/5e6af2a2afae0f4d5f5cea7a">Salina Liberty schedule is on hold</a><h2>APRIL 3-4</h2>2020 Saline County Sheriff's Mounted Patrol &amp; Rescue Squad Rodeo, canceled

Coronavirus Update