When the class of 2020 left school last week, they didn't realize that it would be for the last time.

Gov. Laura Kelly announced on Tuesday all school buildings would be closed for the rest of the spring semester over concerns of spread of the coronavirus.

The Kansas High School Activities Association also has canceled the spring sports season.

In a letter issued to families Friday, HHS Principal Martin Straub said staff met to develop plans for continuous education Friday morning.

The Kansas State Board of Education requires 21 credits to graduate. Local boards have the authority to require that students earn more than 21 credits to graduate, the KSBE said in a news release Thursday.

 However, during this time, districts that require more credits than the state requirement may elect to revert to the 21-credit-hour threshold that the State Board of Education established, the KSBE said. USD 489 has not made an announcement yet about its plans.

Many Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian students are now expressing sadness about not being able to honor senior year traditions, play baseball or run track.

Brock Lummus, HHS senior, was gearing up for his last season playing high school baseball.

"It is really devastating not to be able to finish the whole senior year," he said. "Not getting to play, it hit me hard, but it is what it is."

Lummus and others are considering the senior traditions they will miss.

"Prom, graduation — I think every senior is sad that the class won't get to experience that," he said.

Avery Jones, HHS senior, said she didn't think she would miss school so much.

"I never thought I would be crying about school being closed," she said. "Me and all my friends are really, really sad."

"Friday was our last day, and we really didn't realize it," she said. "That was probably the last my class will be all together. We didn't know we wouldn't be together interacting everyday."

Jones has kept connected to her classmates through social media, but said she is basically at home for the next two weeks in observance of coronavirus precautions.

She said she will be missing the last steps of her senior year.

"I think I am going to miss graduation more than anything," she said.

She added she was not angry about the school closing.

"I understand that it is a cautionary thing," she said.&nbsp;

MK Dwyer, TMP senior, is missing her senior track season.&nbsp;

"I think the hardest thing is to know my junior year at state track was the last time for me to go out on a track and compete," she said. "I'm having trouble processing that. It has been a whirlwind of emotions."

She said she hoped TMP would work out some way to reschedule graduation.

"I think all of us are going to miss that. I don’t know anyone who didn't want to walk across the graduation stage," she said.

"We aren't going to be able to walk the halls together for one last time or take finals all together," she said. "We all took it for granted. Now we don't get to."

Many of the girls in Dwyer's class had purchased prom dress, and now prom is canceled.

Dwyer said she misses seeing her friends in the hall everyday, but they continue stay in contact through their phones and social media.

"We are a small class, but I think it has brought us together even more," she said. "When this settles down, we'll figure something out and hang out one last time."

Landon Summers, HHS senior, said he was also disappointed he would not be able to see his friends again and have an opportunity to say goodbye.

"It's unfortunate," he said, "but I am ready to start a new chapter and the adult phase of my life."

He said he sees a bright side to the school closure.

Summers is joining the Marines. He is set to leave for bootcamp on June 8.

"It's more time I can spend at home with my family," he said, " without being rushed off to bootcamp."

Although the class of 2020 is expressing sadness that their senior year has come to abrupt end, the other seniors are also looking toward their futures.

Lummus has signed to play baseball with Butler Community College. He plans to study sports medicine.

He is hoping the coronavirus crisis will pass in time for him to play summer baseball.

Jones is finishing college concurrent courses online and plans to study graphic design in the fall at Fort Hays State University.

Dwyer plans to study nursing at Missouri State in Springfield, Mo. She said watching health care providers care for coronavirus patients has strengthened her desire to pursue a career in the medical field.

"Life has become crazy, and they are helping everyone in the epidemic," she said. "They are helping every single person."

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584720792657.jpeg" alt="MK Dwyer and friends from Thomas More-Prep Marian High School after a basketball game earlier this year. Dwyer and other seniors have expressed sadness over the early end of their senior year as schools close in light of the coronavirus outbreak." />
 <figcaption>MK Dwyer and friends from Thomas More-Prep Marian High School after a basketball game earlier this year. Dwyer and other seniors have expressed sadness over the early end of their senior year as schools close in light of the coronavirus outbreak.</figcaption>
 </figure>By CRISTINA JANNEYHays PostWhen the class of 2020 left school last week, they didn't realize that it would be for the last time.Gov. Laura Kelly announced on Tuesday all school buildings would be closed for the rest of the spring semester over concerns of spread of the coronavirus.The Kansas High School Activities Association also has canceled the spring sports season.In a letter issued to families Friday, HHS Principal Martin Straub said staff met to develop plans for continuous education Friday morning.The Kansas State Board of Education requires 21 credits to graduate. Local boards have the authority to require that students earn more than 21 credits to graduate, the KSBE said in a news release Thursday. However, during this time, districts that require more credits than the state requirement may elect to revert to the 21-credit-hour threshold that the State Board of Education established, the KSBE said. USD 489 has not made an announcement yet about its plans.Many Hays High School and Thomas More Prep-Marian students are now expressing sadness about not being able to honor senior year traditions, play baseball or run track.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721189431.jpeg" alt="Brock Lummus, catcher, and members of the Hays High baseball team. Lummus expressed disappointment that he will not be able to play his senior season of baseball.&nbsp;" />
 <figcaption>Brock Lummus, catcher, and members of the Hays High baseball team. Lummus expressed disappointment that he will not be able to play his senior season of baseball.&nbsp;</figcaption>
 </figure>Brock Lummus, HHS senior, was gearing up for his last season playing high school baseball."It is really devastating not to be able to finish the whole senior year," he said. "Not getting to play, it hit me hard, but it is what it is."<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721422169.jpeg" alt="Brock&nbsp; Lummus, center, with Josh Haynes, left, and Hayden Brown, right, dressed up for the Indian Call Dance." />
 <figcaption>Brock&nbsp; Lummus, center, with Josh Haynes, left, and Hayden Brown, right, dressed up for the Indian Call Dance.</figcaption>
 </figure>Lummus and others are considering the senior traditions they will miss."Prom, graduation — I think every senior is sad that the class won't get to experience that," he said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721776683.jpeg" alt="Avery Jones, HHS senior, with members of her Hays Recreation Commission basketball team. Jones said she is missing seeing her friends at school." />
 <figcaption>Avery Jones, HHS senior, with members of her Hays Recreation Commission basketball team. Jones said she is missing seeing her friends at school.</figcaption>
 </figure>Avery Jones, HHS senior, said she didn't think she would miss school so much."I never thought I would be crying about school being closed," she said. "Me and all my friends are really, really sad.""Friday was our last day, and we really didn't realize it," she said. "That was probably the last my class will be all together. We didn't know we wouldn't be together interacting everyday."Jones has kept connected to her classmates through social media, but said she is basically at home for the next two weeks in observance of coronavirus precautions.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584722268019.jpeg" alt="Avery Jones, HHS seniors, left, with friend Emmy Morley, junior, said she is sad about missing graduation." />
 <figcaption>Avery Jones, HHS seniors, left, with friend Emmy Morley, junior, said she is sad about missing graduation.</figcaption>
 </figure>She said she will be missing the last steps of her senior year."I think I am going to miss graduation more than anything," she said.She added she was not angry about the school closing."I understand that it is a cautionary thing," she said.&nbsp;<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584722844541.jpeg" alt="MK Dwyer, TMP senior, in the blocks, with Emily Shippers sitting, is disappointed she will miss her senior year of track at TMP." />
 <figcaption>MK Dwyer, TMP senior, in the blocks, with Emily Shippers sitting, is disappointed she will miss her senior year of track at TMP.</figcaption>
 </figure>MK Dwyer, TMP senior, is missing her senior track season.&nbsp;"I think the hardest thing is to know my junior year at state track was the last time for me to go out on a track and compete," she said. "I'm having trouble processing that. It has been a whirlwind of emotions."She said she hoped TMP would work out some way to reschedule graduation."I think all of us are going to miss that. I don’t know anyone who didn't want to walk across the graduation stage," she said.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584723133709.jpeg" alt="MK Dwyer, TMP senior, and friends Adell Riedel, Madison Rohr, Margaret Speno and Katie Hale. Dwyer said she and her friends are disappointed they will be missing their senior prom." />
 <figcaption>MK Dwyer, TMP senior, and friends Adell Riedel, Madison Rohr, Margaret Speno and Katie Hale. Dwyer said she and her friends are disappointed they will be missing their senior prom.</figcaption>
 </figure>"We aren't going to be able to walk the halls together for one last time or take finals all together," she said. "We all took it for granted. Now we don't get to."Many of the girls in Dwyer's class had purchased prom dress, and now prom is canceled.Dwyer said she misses seeing her friends in the hall everyday, but they continue stay in contact through their phones and social media."We are a small class, but I think it has brought us together even more," she said. "When this settles down, we'll figure something out and hang out one last time."Landon Summers, HHS senior, said he was also disappointed he would not be able to see his friends again and have an opportunity to say goodbye."It's unfortunate," he said, "but I am ready to start a new chapter and the adult phase of my life."He said he sees a bright side to the school closure.Summers is joining the Marines. He is set to leave for bootcamp on June 8."It's more time I can spend at home with my family," he said, " without being rushed off to bootcamp."Although the class of 2020 is expressing sadness that their senior year has come to abrupt end, the other seniors are also looking toward their futures.Lummus has signed to play baseball with Butler Community College. He plans to study sports medicine.He is hoping the coronavirus crisis will pass in time for him to play summer baseball.Jones is finishing college concurrent courses online and plans to study graphic design in the fall at Fort Hays State University.Dwyer plans to study nursing at Missouri State in Springfield, Mo. She said watching health care providers care for coronavirus patients has strengthened her desire to pursue a career in the medical field."Life has become crazy, and they are helping everyone in the epidemic," she said. "They are helping every single person."

Hays High, TMP-M seniors disappointed at abrupt end to school year

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed all campsites and restrooms due to health precautions regarding COVID-19.

This follows an announcement last Friday that all visitor centers in the corps district were closed.

Restrooms at the lake have also been closed, and all utility services have been disconnected.

"Vehicle access to parks is still accessible," the announcement said. "Hiking trails and boat ramps remain open."

The Corps does not anticipate any impacts to summer reservations, but conditions are subject to change.

By JAMES BELL Hays PostThe U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has closed all campsites and restrooms due to health precautions regarding COVID-19.This follows an announcement last Friday that all visitor centers in the corps district were closed.Restrooms at the lake have also been closed, and all utility services have been disconnected."Vehicle access to parks is still accessible," the announcement said. "Hiking trails and boat ramps remain open."The Corps does not anticipate any impacts to summer reservations, but conditions are subject to change.

Lake Wilson campsites closed; no camping allowed

WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, have tested negative for the coronavirus.

The vice president's press secretary, Katie Miller, tweeted the results of the tests Saturday night.

Pence had announced earlier Saturday that, out of an abundance of caution, he and his wife would be tested for the virus. A member of the vice president's staff had tested positive for the virus.

The vice president had said the staffer, who did not have close contact with either the president or vice president, was doing well. Still, Pence stood just a few feet from President Donald Trump at the podium during their press conference.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584839150894.png" alt="Vice President Mike Pence during Saturday's Coronavirus task force media briefing-photo courtesy White House" />
 <figcaption>Vice President Mike Pence during Saturday's Coronavirus task force media briefing-photo courtesy White House</figcaption>
 </figure>WASHINGTON (AP) —&nbsp;Vice President Mike Pence and his wife, Karen, have tested negative for the coronavirus.The vice president's press secretary, Katie Miller, tweeted the results of the tests Saturday night.Pence had announced earlier Saturday that, out of an abundance of caution, he and his wife would be tested for the virus. A member of the vice president's staff had tested positive for the virus.The vice president had said the staffer, who did not have close contact with either the president or vice president, was doing well. Still, Pence stood just a few feet from President Donald Trump at the podium during their press conference.

VP Mike Pence, wife test negative; staffer has virus

Kansas City, Missouri Mayor Quinton Lucas&nbsp; issued a “Stay at Home” Order Saturday. It requires Kansas City residents to stay at home except for essential activities as the community continues working to slow the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/covid19?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDOQxKuklXYM-UvQ3FAeKbN9C30xOyz-tbBL7PKTya-SLGnDiutJiG33ci_KMRhQ2m4T6Ee4AjjNoGysSVlqqurleU3REKA0BqqFAA0PRhSDRHtI8R7nUbMUJ0B2b8fRmmoWN-R-vMQTxXTO_8VC1sRRT-F8OAXWd2J8HWxCFSDgGJExSPaat1vrUTnrVb-WwGhUQao36CMjSv3WADOESzpcfSkNqEc9QFaU13_xOeUaSH7_RWrEU0jFH4TrvY0ye-S5GLtnn1H1XuR338pEs-WtTOk44a6uEDMsj1ys_CZ-ol1o8ru8GOqw2auMjc1mofze1rTHVndj9MJ30AiEw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#COVID19</a>.

Read the <a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/home/showdocument?id=4065">full order here.</a>

Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and healthcare facilities will remain open. This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24.

"Additionally, with the support of superintendents from all 14 school districts and other education leaders that educate Kansas City students, I have updated my existing State of Emergency order to extend school closures in the Missouri-side of the metropolitan area through Friday, April 24. Daycares and early childhood programs remain exempt from this order," wrote Lucas.

Kansas City, Missouri Mayor Quinton Lucas&nbsp; issued a “Stay at Home” Order Saturday. It requires Kansas City residents to stay at home except for essential activities as the community continues working to slow the spread of&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/covid19?source=feed_text&amp;epa=HASHTAG&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARDOQxKuklXYM-UvQ3FAeKbN9C30xOyz-tbBL7PKTya-SLGnDiutJiG33ci_KMRhQ2m4T6Ee4AjjNoGysSVlqqurleU3REKA0BqqFAA0PRhSDRHtI8R7nUbMUJ0B2b8fRmmoWN-R-vMQTxXTO_8VC1sRRT-F8OAXWd2J8HWxCFSDgGJExSPaat1vrUTnrVb-WwGhUQao36CMjSv3WADOESzpcfSkNqEc9QFaU13_xOeUaSH7_RWrEU0jFH4TrvY0ye-S5GLtnn1H1XuR338pEs-WtTOk44a6uEDMsj1ys_CZ-ol1o8ru8GOqw2auMjc1mofze1rTHVndj9MJ30AiEw&amp;__tn__=%2ANK-R">#COVID19</a>.Read the <a href="https://www.kcmo.gov/home/showdocument?id=4065">full order here.</a>Grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and healthcare facilities will remain open. This order will take effect at 12:01 a.m. Tuesday, March 24.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fquinton.lucas%2Fposts%2F2956531374406119&width=500" width="500" height="751" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>"Additionally, with the support of superintendents from all 14 school districts and other education leaders that educate Kansas City students, I have updated my existing State of Emergency order to extend school closures in the Missouri-side of the metropolitan area through Friday, April 24. Daycares and early childhood programs remain exempt from this order," wrote Lucas.

Kansas City mayor issues stay-at-home order

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A second COVID-19 death in Kansas has been confirmed, this one in the Kansas City suburb of Johnson County. State health officials revealed the death Saturday in a news release meant to update the number of new coronavirus cases in the state and did not give any details about the person who died.

&nbsp;The state's first death from the virus, a Kansas City-area nursing home resident in Wyandotte County, was reported March 12. The state saw its number of confirmed cases in the state rise from more than 40 on Friday to 55 on Saturday.

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — A second COVID-19 death in Kansas has been confirmed, this one in the Kansas City suburb of Johnson County. State health officials revealed the death Saturday in a news release meant to update the number of new coronavirus cases in the state and did not give any details about the person who died.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584818021920.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>&nbsp;The state's first death from the virus, a Kansas City-area nursing home resident in Wyandotte County, was reported March 12. The state saw its number of confirmed cases in the state rise from more than 40 on Friday to 55 on Saturday.

Kansas sees second death from coronavirus as cases rise

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health announced Saturday two new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Douglas County, bringing the county’s current total to three. Results sent to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Laboratories identified the positive cases, according to a media release.

The new cases involve a woman in her 30s who recently traveled to the West Coast, and a man also in his 30s who recently traveled to England. Both patients are in isolation.

Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, as part of disease investigation protocol, is working to identify any close contacts of the individuals, and we will contact those who were exposed as soon as possible. We will be monitoring them for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information about the patients will be released.

The KDHE has&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/NewsRelease/PDFs/3-19-20%203-19-20%20REVISED%20Mandate%20for%20quarantine%20and%20isolation%20of%20travelers,%20close%20contacts,%20those%20being%20tested.pdf">issued mandates earlier this week</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited places in the United States where the disease is present in large numbers. The&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/2TWgV9O">first case in Douglas County</a>&nbsp;announced on March 17 was a man in his 20s who had recently traveled to Florida.

In an effort to stem the outbreak and promote social distancing, Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino has issued orders in recent days, including one to&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/2xIk58u">prohibit public gatherings&nbsp;</a>of more than 10 people and close restaurants, dining facilities, bars, taverns, night clubs and movie theaters through April 1. Restaurants can offer carryout, drive-through and delivery services.

Marcellino has also strongly recommended:

Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management, LMH Health and leadership of local public and private school districts.

Douglas County residents can also stay informed as informatio

LAWRENCE, Kan. – Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health announced Saturday two new cases of coronavirus disease (COVID-19) in Douglas County, bringing the county’s current total to three. Results sent to the Kansas Department of Health and Environment’s Laboratories identified the positive cases, according to a media release.The new cases involve a woman in her 30s who recently traveled to the West Coast, and a man also in his 30s who recently traveled to England. Both patients are in isolation.Lawrence-Douglas County Public Health, as part of disease investigation protocol, is working to identify any close contacts of the individuals, and we will contact those who were exposed as soon as possible. We will be monitoring them for fever and respiratory symptoms. No further information about the patients will be released.The KDHE has&nbsp;<a href="https://khap2.kdhe.state.ks.us/NewsRelease/PDFs/3-19-20%203-19-20%20REVISED%20Mandate%20for%20quarantine%20and%20isolation%20of%20travelers,%20close%20contacts,%20those%20being%20tested.pdf">issued mandates earlier this week</a>&nbsp;for quarantine and isolation of travelers who visited places in the United States where the disease is present in large numbers. The&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/2TWgV9O">first case in Douglas County</a>&nbsp;announced on March 17 was a man in his 20s who had recently traveled to Florida.In an effort to stem the outbreak and promote social distancing, Douglas County Health Officer Dr. Thomas Marcellino has issued orders in recent days, including one to&nbsp;<a href="http://bit.ly/2xIk58u">prohibit public gatherings&nbsp;</a>of more than 10 people and close restaurants, dining facilities, bars, taverns, night clubs and movie theaters through April 1. Restaurants can offer carryout, drive-through and delivery services.Marcellino has also strongly recommended:<ol>
 <li>People avoid non-essential trips and stay home to the extent they can.</li><li>Practice good hygiene, including frequently washing your hands, avoid touching your face and coughing or sneezing into a tissue or your elbow.</li><li>Daycare centers close while schools are closed.</li><li>Retirement communities and long-term care centers limit visitors.</li><li>People avoid large gatherings including sports practices, games and tournaments and unnecessary social gatherings.</li><li>If you do need to go out in public, work to ensure you maintain six feet from other people.</li>
 </ol>Public Health has worked closely on these decisions with numerous community partners, including Douglas County Government, City of Lawrence, Douglas County Emergency Management, LMH Health and leadership of local public and private school districts.Douglas County residents can also stay informed as informatio

2 more travel-related cases of coronavirus in Douglas County

BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays Post

As school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic.

"I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health. 

"They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on.

"Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."

Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19

Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.

Some of the association's recommendations include:

Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.

The association also recommends the following talking points.

Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children

To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists <a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.

The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.

<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e725ca2afae0f4d5f5d6ca7">SEE RELATED STORY: HPMH offers tips on finding calm during virus crisis</a>

BY CRISTINA JANNEY Hays PostAs school buildings close and the news is saturated with stories on the coronavirus, professionals are giving suggestions on how to talk to your children about the pandemic."I think it is important right now for parents and guardians to be aware of the fact that children are also impacted by what is going on around them," said Kaley Conner, marketing director of High Plains Mental Health. "They might be feeling the uncertainty, the fear, the anxiety," she said. "They might be afraid themselves, so I think it is important to talk to our kids about what is going on."Let them express their emotions in the way they are able and to also give them that extra patience and grace to feel those big emotions. We need to do the best we can as adults to help them through that in a healthy way."<h2>Tips on talking to your children about COVID-19</h2>Kyle Carlin, school psychologist and USD 489 assistant special education director, directed parents to resources provided by the National Association of School Psychologists.Some of the association's recommendations include:<ul>
 <li>Remain calm and reassuring</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Make yourself available. Children may need extra attention.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Avoid excessive blaming</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Monitor television viewing and social media</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Maintain a normal routine to the extent possible</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Be honest and accurate</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Know the symptoms of COVID-19</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Review and model basic hygiene and healthy lifestyle practices and protection</li>
 </ul>Be aware that developmentally inappropriate information (i.e., information designed for adults) can cause anxiety or confusion, particularly in young, the association said.The association also recommends the following talking points.<h2>Suggested points to emphasize when talking to children</h2><ol>
 <li>Adults at home and school are taking care of your health and safety. If you have concerns, please talk to an adult you trust.</li><li>Not everyone will get the coronavirus (COVID-19) disease. School and health officials are being especially careful to make sure as few people as possible get sick.</li><li>It is important that all students treat each other with respect and not jump to conclusions about who may or may not have COVID-19.</li><li>There are things you can do to stay health and avoid spreading the disease</li>
 </ol><ul>
 <li>Avoid close contact with people who are sick.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Stay home when you are sick.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Cover your cough or sneeze into your elbow or a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Avoid touching your eyes, nose and mouth.</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Wash hands often with soap and water (20 seconds).</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>If you don’t have soap, use hand sanitizer (60–95 percent alcohol based).</li>
 </ul><ul>
 <li>Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces using a regular household cleaning spray or wipe.</li>
 </ul>To read the entire article from the&nbsp;National Association of School Psychologists <a href="https://www.nasponline.org/resources-and-publications/resources-and-podcasts/school-climate-safety-and-crisis/health-crisis-resources/talking-to-children-about-covid-19-(coronavirus)-a-parent-resource">click here</a>.The CDC also has an online article about talking to children about COVID-19.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/schools-childcare/talking-with-children.html">Click here</a>.<a href="https://hayspost.com/posts/5e725ca2afae0f4d5f5d6ca7">SEE RELATED STORY: HPMH offers tips on finding calm during virus crisis</a>Cover image courtesy Pixabay

Tips offered on talking to children about COVID-19

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon’s role in responding to the coronavirus outbreak in the United States began to rapidly expand Wednesday as officials announced that two Navy hospital ships and two Army field hospitals were preparing to deploy to help overburdened regions.

The latest moves are aimed at taking the pressure off local hospitals so that they can free up rooms and staff to deal with virus patients. Military hospital ships and field units are geared toward treating trauma cases.

The military moves, however, face limits. It will take as long as two weeks for the USS Comfort hospital ship to get to New York City, where the governor has been pressing for medical help.

And there are logistical and legal concerns about expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs, such as tasking it with enforcing quarantines. Defense officials also want to be careful not to do anything to weaken its ability to defend the nation.

A look at the military’s role in the crisis:

The hospital ships are not on their way but are gathering staff and preparing to go.

The USS Mercy hospital ship, which is based on the West Coast, will be ready to move out “in days,” according to officials, and the USS Comfort is undergoing maintenance in Norfolk, Virginia, and will head to New York City within two weeks.

Navy officials are trying to expedite the Comfort’s departure. It was not yet clear where the Mercy will go, but it will be somewhere on the West Coast.

Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Friedrichs, the surgeon for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the plan is to staff the ships with the typical mix of medical expertise, which primarily involves trauma treatment. The ships will take non-COVID-19 patients, easing the trauma treatment load on civilian hospitals.

He said staffing decisions will be based on what local leaders need and will mainly involve active-duty military personnel.

The Army, meanwhile, is preparing to deploy two field hospitals, according to Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy. One defense official said the two field hospitals will go to New York City and Seattle, two cities with the greatest need.

The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public.

Friedrichs said Army field hospitals will be able to provide about 1,000 beds. He said they have not put reserve medical units on alert because of concerns about taking those people out of the civilian jobs in the health care industry.

Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday that 1 million respiratory masks were immediately made available to the Department of Health and Human Services, and 4 million more will follow. The Pentagon also will provide to civilian agencies as many as 2,000 special-purpose military ventilators, he said.

Also, Army scientists are researching and testing vaccines for the coronavirus, in coordination with civilian agencies. On Tuesday, Esper visited Fort Detrick in Maryland, where the research is underway.

In addition, the Pentagon continues to provide housing at four military bases for some passengers taken from the Grand Princess cruise ship, which was hit with a cluster of coronavirus cases. It also has made available housing at other bases for people entering the U.S. at certain civilian airports and needing monitoring.

The most extensive role for the military so far is for the National Guard, which is being called up by governors to provide a range of support. At least 2,000 National Guard members in 23 states are working on virus support and response. Some are helping at state emergency operations centers; others are providing transportation for civilian health care providers; and some are collecting and delivering test samples.

There are many more ways the military could assist in the COVID-19 crisis, and Pentagon leaders said those discussions are going on continually with federal and state officials.

Friedrichs told reporters Monday that defense officials are trying to identify “what’s within the realm of the possible,” while also spelling out what the trade-offs for that would be.

For example, Friedrichs said, officials are wary to mobilize large numbers of National Guard members because it would take them away from their civilian jobs, which in some cases are in health services already engaged in fighting COVID-19.

Esper has said he is considering activating National Guard and Reserve units for federal duty to help states with planning, logistics and medical support “as needed.” Such a move would need approval by President Donald Trump.

WHAT THE MILITARY COULD DO IN AN EXTREME EMERGENCY

The Defense Department has a detailed pandemic response plan that lays out the myriad things the military can do if requested, including a last-resort role in helping to impose quarantines and border restrictions.

The military could be called on to help establish “mass casualty” treatment sites, provide shelter for displaced persons and help provide postal, power, water and sewer services, food deliveries and mortuary tasks. Troops also could provide logistics, communications and other support for law enforcement and the National Guard. Drafted and overhauled several times in recent years, the military’s plan is closely guarded and officials decline to discuss details publicly.

Officials, however, say that there is a broad assumption that local law enforcement, border control officers and the National Guard under the governors’ command would be the first line of defense to stem the spread of any virus through travel restrictions at the borders and along state lines or outbreak areas.

So far, 49 members of the military have tested positive for the virus, along with 14 Defense Department civilians, 19 military dependents and seven contractors.

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.

The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Worldwide, more than 200,000 cases have been confirmed, while more than 8,500 people have died.

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Pentagon’s role in responding to the coronavirus outbreak in the United States began to rapidly expand Wednesday as officials announced that two Navy hospital ships and two Army field hospitals were preparing to deploy to help overburdened regions.The latest moves are aimed at taking the pressure off local hospitals so that they can free up rooms and staff to deal with virus patients. Military hospital ships and field units are geared toward treating trauma cases.The military moves, however, face limits. It will take as long as two weeks for the USS Comfort hospital ship to get to New York City, where the governor has been pressing for medical help.And there are logistical and legal concerns about expanding the military’s role in civilian affairs, such as tasking it with enforcing quarantines. Defense officials also want to be careful not to do anything to weaken its ability to defend the nation.A look at the military’s role in the crisis:WHAT THE MILITARY IS DOINGThe hospital ships are not on their way but are gathering staff and preparing to go.The USS Mercy hospital ship, which is based on the West Coast, will be ready to move out “in days,” according to officials, and the USS Comfort is undergoing maintenance in Norfolk, Virginia, and will head to New York City within two weeks.Navy officials are trying to expedite the Comfort’s departure. It was not yet clear where the Mercy will go, but it will be somewhere on the West Coast.Air Force Brig. Gen. Paul Friedrichs, the surgeon for the Joint Chiefs of Staff, said the plan is to staff the ships with the typical mix of medical expertise, which primarily involves trauma treatment. The ships will take non-COVID-19 patients, easing the trauma treatment load on civilian hospitals.He said staffing decisions will be based on what local leaders need and will mainly involve active-duty military personnel.The Army, meanwhile, is preparing to deploy two field hospitals, according to Army Secretary Ryan McCarthy. One defense official said the two field hospitals will go to New York City and Seattle, two cities with the greatest need.The official spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss details not yet made public.Friedrichs said Army field hospitals will be able to provide about 1,000 beds. He said they have not put reserve medical units on alert because of concerns about taking those people out of the civilian jobs in the health care industry.Defense Secretary Mark Esper said Wednesday that 1 million respiratory masks were immediately made available to the Department of Health and Human Services, and 4 million more will follow. The Pentagon also will provide to civilian agencies as many as 2,000 special-purpose military ventilators, he said.Also, Army scientists are researching and testing vaccines for the coronavirus, in coordination with civilian agencies. On Tuesday, Esper visited Fort Detrick in Maryland, where the research is underway.In addition, the Pentagon continues to provide housing at four military bases for some passengers taken from the Grand Princess cruise ship, which was hit with a cluster of coronavirus cases. It also has made available housing at other bases for people entering the U.S. at certain civilian airports and needing monitoring.The most extensive role for the military so far is for the National Guard, which is being called up by governors to provide a range of support. At least 2,000 National Guard members in 23 states are working on virus support and response. Some are helping at state emergency operations centers; others are providing transportation for civilian health care providers; and some are collecting and delivering test samples.WHAT THE MILITARY IS CONSIDERINGThere are many more ways the military could assist in the COVID-19 crisis, and Pentagon leaders said those discussions are going on continually with federal and state officials.Friedrichs told reporters Monday that defense officials are trying to identify “what’s within the realm of the possible,” while also spelling out what the trade-offs for that would be.For example, Friedrichs said, officials are wary to mobilize large numbers of National Guard members because it would take them away from their civilian jobs, which in some cases are in health services already engaged in fighting COVID-19.Esper has said he is considering activating National Guard and Reserve units for federal duty to help states with planning, logistics and medical support “as needed.” Such a move would need approval by President Donald Trump.WHAT THE MILITARY COULD DO IN AN EXTREME EMERGENCYThe Defense Department has a detailed pandemic response plan that lays out the myriad things the military can do if requested, including a last-resort role in helping to impose quarantines and border restrictions.The military could be called on to help establish “mass casualty” treatment sites, provide shelter for displaced persons and help provide postal, power, water and sewer services, food deliveries and mortuary tasks. Troops also could provide logistics, communications and other support for law enforcement and the National Guard. Drafted and overhauled several times in recent years, the military’s plan is closely guarded and officials decline to discuss details publicly.Officials, however, say that there is a broad assumption that local law enforcement, border control officers and the National Guard under the governors’ command would be the first line of defense to stem the spread of any virus through travel restrictions at the borders and along state lines or outbreak areas.IMPACT ON THE MILITARYSo far, 49 members of the military have tested positive for the virus, along with 14 Defense Department civilians, 19 military dependents and seven contractors.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.The vast majority of people recover from the new virus. According to the World Health Organization, people with mild illness recover in about two weeks, while those with more severe illness may take three to six weeks to recover. Worldwide, more than 200,000 cases have been confirmed, while more than 8,500 people have died.___

US military's role in response to virus outbreak is growing

HUTCHINSON— Reno County has its first case of coronavirus. Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti reported the finding Friday evening.

Baldetti says a woman over the age of 60 was tested two days ago and the results came back today. The female is in self-quarantine and is doing well.

Officials are doing a backtrack of the patients whereabouts and travel and contact history which usually goes back about two weeks, according to Baldetti.

In addition to this case, the state reported 44 cases of the virus Friday including 23 in Johnson County.

HUTCHINSON— Reno County has its first case of coronavirus. Reno County Health Department Director Nick Baldetti reported the finding Friday evening.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/video.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2F100010501362683%2Fvideos%2F1078213139205388%2F&show_text=0&width=267" width="267" height="476" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allowFullScreen="true"></iframe></div>Baldetti says a woman over the age of 60 was tested two days ago and the results came back today. The female is in self-quarantine and is doing well.Officials are doing a backtrack of the patients whereabouts and travel and contact history which usually goes back about two weeks, according to Baldetti.In addition to this case, the state reported 44 cases of the virus Friday including 23 in Johnson County.

🎥  Reno County reports first case of coronavirus

KDHE: Latest coronavirus numbers in Kansas

TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has launched a new program to provide short-term, no-interest loans to bars, restaurants, taverns and motels struggling to cover operating expenses because of the economic toll of the coronavirus pandemic. 

The program announced Friday by Gov. Laura Kelly and state Commerce Secretary David Toland will make up to $5 million in loans. Several communities, including Kansas City-area suburbs, Topeka, and Lawrence, have told businesses to stop allowing dine-in services. 

Kansas Labor Secretary Delia Garcia said the state has received more than 11,000 initial unemployment claims this week, a 524% increase over last week's figure. Kansas has confirmed more than 30 coronavirus cases.&nbsp;

Read the release from the Governor's office below

U.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance Loans

The Governor first announced that under the state's disaster declaration she issued on March 12th, Kansas has applied for, and expects to receive, disaster assistance loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to supplement small businesses disrupted by the economic fallbacks of COVID-19.

"As Kansans practice social distancing, our restaurants, bars and other event centers will see a decrease in patrons. These loans can be used to help keep Kansas small businesses afloat when they can't obtain credit elsewhere," Kelly said. "During this turbulent time, our affected small business owners need support."

Through the SBA, loans of up to $2 million would be made available to Kansas small businesses in need of assistance. The disaster declaration extends to all 105 Kansas counties, making low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital available for Kansas small businesses across the state.

"SBA's disaster loans are a powerful tool to help our state's small businesses weather this temporary storm," Toland said. "The Department of Commerce is grateful for the SBA's quick action working to make these resources available and for their commitment to keeping Kansas businesses strong."

Once approved, Kansas small businesses can begin applying for disaster loan assistance through the SBA at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdisasterloan.sba.gov%2Fela&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349647174&amp;sdata=LQFWdRJZw3H%2Bs6SqyymH3%2FAMmMCq9FSpFOS%2BywWcaxE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela</a>. SBA loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills. The interest rate is 3.75 percent for small businesses and 2.75 percent for private non-profit organizations.

Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund

The Governor also announced during Friday's press conference that her administration has allocated $5 million of state funds to establish the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund to provide short-term, zero-interest loans for Kansas' hospitality sector during the pandemic.

"In an effort to make sure all Kansans come through these difficulties together, we are providing much-needed support to businesses dealing with the earliest impacts of this public health crisis," Kelly said. "There are more than 10,000 hotels, restaurants, bars, event centers and other hospitality establishments in need of our support right now, and we're doing everything we can see them through this severe, but temporary, downturn."

The HIRE Fund offers loans up to $20,000 at 0 percent interest for a term of three years to hospitality businesses with fewer than 100 employees.

"The hospitality industry is experiencing some of the most immediate impacts of the COVID-19 crisis with businesses being closed to the public all across Kansas," Toland said. "HIRE Fund loans are available to help these businesses meet working capital commitments, such as payroll, utilities, commercial loan payments, inventory expenses and more."

Loan decisions will made within 72 hours of the time an application is submitted, and businesses will receive funds within 48 hours (or the next business day) of an application being approved. The program is administered by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.networkkansas.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349647174&amp;sdata=QBD%2FpChf7QGNt3gw0LTHnAkxD1zWC8b35leJESLrDfM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NetWork Kansas</a>, a non-profit with a system of small business loan underwriters across 64 Kansas counties.

For more information on the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency fund, visit&nbsp;kansascommerce.gov/HIREfund.

Kansas Department of Labor Updates

García spoke about her agency's role in supporting Kansans during the current health and economic crisis.

"We are doing everything we can to support Kansas workers and employers," García said. "As we navigate these unprecedented times, know the Kansas Department of Labor is here for you – and we are ready to support our fellow Kansans."

To illustrate the gravity of the situation, García said that last week the department received 1,296 unemployment claims. This week, the department has received 11,355 claims – an increase of over 10,000.

&nbsp;"We are in uncharted waters right now, which underscores the importance of us working together," García said. "To serve Kansas workers and employers as efficiently as possible, we are encouraging them to utilize our website --&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dol.ks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349657133&amp;sdata=BvATXnZeQ4OklvsYJxkrtiL6DbOyIFV8Uf70j1nOa2M%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dol.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;-- as much as possible."

Employers and workers can apply for benefits, file by spreadsheet, find answers to frequently asked questions and utilize additional resources online.

Office of the State Bank Commissioner Updates

Herndon shared updates from his office, dispelled false rumors surrounding the impact of COVID-19 on Kansas banks and discussed how the Kansas banking industry is stepping up to help people across the state.

The Office of the State Bank Commissioner regulates banks chartered by Kansas and non-bank consumer credit providers licensed to do business in Kansas. It conducts safety and soundness examinations, regulatory compliance examinations and information technology/cybersecurity exams as mandated by federal and state laws and regulations.

"Kansas banks are safe and they are sound," Herndon said. "No depositor has ever lost a penny of insured deposits since the FDIC was created in 1933. I urge Kansans to be safe, protect yourself and your funds by leaving them in your account."

Herndon said bankers across the state are assisting Kansans by making new loans, amending terms and conditions to existing loans and otherwise working with borrowers adversely impacted by the pandemic.

"Kansas bankers and the Kansas banking industry is stepping up to help through this pandemic, and they are here to assist in any way they can for the duration," Herndon said.

The Governor also thanked Kansas medical professionals, members of the press corps, grocery store and food industry workers, custodial staff, firefighters, police officers, state and local emergency managers, and the 21 state-active duty National guardsmen &amp; women for their hard work.

"I know many of you are working long hours away from your family and that is tough so please know that Kansans all across the state appreciate you and all you are doing," Kelly said.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584721718380.png" alt="Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Commerce Secretary David Toland during Friday's announcement -image courtesy Kansas Dept. of Commerce" />
 <figcaption>Kansas Governor Laura Kelly and Commerce Secretary David Toland during Friday's announcement -image courtesy Kansas Dept. of Commerce</figcaption>
 </figure>TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — Kansas has launched a new program to provide short-term, no-interest loans to bars, restaurants, taverns and motels struggling to cover operating expenses because of the economic toll of the coronavirus pandemic. The program announced Friday by Gov. Laura Kelly and state Commerce Secretary David Toland will make up to $5 million in loans. Several communities, including Kansas City-area suburbs, Topeka, and Lawrence, have told businesses to stop allowing dine-in services. Kansas Labor Secretary Delia Garcia said the state has received more than 11,000 initial unemployment claims this week, a 524% increase over last week's figure. Kansas has confirmed more than 30 coronavirus cases.&nbsp;Read the release from the Governor's office belowU.S. Small Business Administration Disaster Assistance LoansThe Governor first announced that under the state's disaster declaration she issued on March 12th, Kansas has applied for, and expects to receive, disaster assistance loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to supplement small businesses disrupted by the economic fallbacks of COVID-19."As Kansans practice social distancing, our restaurants, bars and other event centers will see a decrease in patrons. These loans can be used to help keep Kansas small businesses afloat when they can't obtain credit elsewhere," Kelly said. "During this turbulent time, our affected small business owners need support."Through the SBA, loans of up to $2 million would be made available to Kansas small businesses in need of assistance. The disaster declaration extends to all 105 Kansas counties, making low-interest federal disaster loans for working capital available for Kansas small businesses across the state."SBA's disaster loans are a powerful tool to help our state's small businesses weather this temporary storm," Toland said. "The Department of Commerce is grateful for the SBA's quick action working to make these resources available and for their commitment to keeping Kansas businesses strong."Once approved, Kansas small businesses can begin applying for disaster loan assistance through the SBA at&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdisasterloan.sba.gov%2Fela&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349647174&amp;sdata=LQFWdRJZw3H%2Bs6SqyymH3%2FAMmMCq9FSpFOS%2BywWcaxE%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">https://disasterloan.sba.gov/ela</a>. SBA loans may be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills. The interest rate is 3.75 percent for small businesses and 2.75 percent for private non-profit organizations.Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) FundThe Governor also announced during Friday's press conference that her administration has allocated $5 million of state funds to establish the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency (HIRE) Fund to provide short-term, zero-interest loans for Kansas' hospitality sector during the pandemic."In an effort to make sure all Kansans come through these difficulties together, we are providing much-needed support to businesses dealing with the earliest impacts of this public health crisis," Kelly said. "There are more than 10,000 hotels, restaurants, bars, event centers and other hospitality establishments in need of our support right now, and we're doing everything we can see them through this severe, but temporary, downturn."The HIRE Fund offers loans up to $20,000 at 0 percent interest for a term of three years to hospitality businesses with fewer than 100 employees."The hospitality industry is experiencing some of the most immediate impacts of the COVID-19 crisis with businesses being closed to the public all across Kansas," Toland said. "HIRE Fund loans are available to help these businesses meet working capital commitments, such as payroll, utilities, commercial loan payments, inventory expenses and more."Loan decisions will made within 72 hours of the time an application is submitted, and businesses will receive funds within 48 hours (or the next business day) of an application being approved. The program is administered by&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.networkkansas.com%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349647174&amp;sdata=QBD%2FpChf7QGNt3gw0LTHnAkxD1zWC8b35leJESLrDfM%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">NetWork Kansas</a>, a non-profit with a system of small business loan underwriters across 64 Kansas counties.For more information on the Hospitality Industry Relief Emergency fund, visit&nbsp;kansascommerce.gov/HIREfund.Kansas Department of Labor UpdatesGarcía spoke about her agency's role in supporting Kansans during the current health and economic crisis."We are doing everything we can to support Kansas workers and employers," García said. "As we navigate these unprecedented times, know the Kansas Department of Labor is here for you – and we are ready to support our fellow Kansans."To illustrate the gravity of the situation, García said that last week the department received 1,296 unemployment claims. This week, the department has received 11,355 claims – an increase of over 10,000.&nbsp;"We are in uncharted waters right now, which underscores the importance of us working together," García said. "To serve Kansas workers and employers as efficiently as possible, we are encouraging them to utilize our website --&nbsp;<a href="https://gcc01.safelinks.protection.outlook.com/?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.dol.ks.gov%2F&amp;data=02%7C01%7C%7C9ff7868a53f64e6b7ea208d7ccea2718%7Cdcae8101c92d480cbc43c6761ccccc5a%7C0%7C0%7C637203178349657133&amp;sdata=BvATXnZeQ4OklvsYJxkrtiL6DbOyIFV8Uf70j1nOa2M%3D&amp;reserved=0" target="_blank">www.dol.ks.gov</a>&nbsp;-- as much as possible."Employers and workers can apply for benefits, file by spreadsheet, find answers to frequently asked questions and utilize additional resources online.Office of the State Bank Commissioner UpdatesHerndon shared updates from his office, dispelled false rumors surrounding the impact of COVID-19 on Kansas banks and discussed how the Kansas banking industry is stepping up to help people across the state.The Office of the State Bank Commissioner regulates banks chartered by Kansas and non-bank consumer credit providers licensed to do business in Kansas. It conducts safety and soundness examinations, regulatory compliance examinations and information technology/cybersecurity exams as mandated by federal and state laws and regulations."Kansas banks are safe and they are sound," Herndon said. "No depositor has ever lost a penny of insured deposits since the FDIC was created in 1933. I urge Kansans to be safe, protect yourself and your funds by leaving them in your account."Herndon said bankers across the state are assisting Kansans by making new loans, amending terms and conditions to existing loans and otherwise working with borrowers adversely impacted by the pandemic."Kansas bankers and the Kansas banking industry is stepping up to help through this pandemic, and they are here to assist in any way they can for the duration," Herndon said.The Governor also thanked Kansas medical professionals, members of the press corps, grocery store and food industry workers, custodial staff, firefighters, police officers, state and local emergency managers, and the 21 state-active duty National guardsmen &amp; women for their hard work."I know many of you are working long hours away from your family and that is tough so please know that Kansans all across the state appreciate you and all you are doing," Kelly said.

Kansas starts loan program to aid bars, restaurants, motels

NEW YORK (AP) — Most Americans who rent their home, many of whom have lost their jobs in the sudden economic slowdown caused by the coronavirus outbreak, will not be eligible for eviction protections, despite what President Donald Trump said this week.

Under the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s plan released Wednesday, foreclosures and evictions would stop for 60 days on single-family homes with loans through the Federal Housing Administration. That would apply to roughly 8 million units, according to HUD. Only FHA homes lived in for at least a year can be rented out.

That’s compared with the roughly 43 million households who rented in 2019, according to the U.S. Census. Roughly half of renters rent their home from an individual investor, while the other half rent from a business or multi-unit property owner. The ones renting from a business will not receive any protections according to HUD’s proposal.

“That’s the problem with (HUD’s proposal). It only impacts a very small amount of people. We need big-scale solutions,” said Andrea Shapiro of the Metropolitan Council on Housing, a New York-based housing advocacy organization.

Furthermore, HUD has no power to protect renters in public housing authorities located across the country. HUD Secretary Ben Carson said this week on Twitter that the agency is working with Congress to get that authority to protect renters in public housing authorities.

“HUD has been in contact with every Public Housing Agency in the country to ensure the millions of low-income Americans we serve continue to have a roof over their head,” Carson said.

The rules are in contrast to comments made by Trump this week, who said renters would get “immediate relief” as part of his administration’s plan.

Housing advocates called the White House’s proposal an “important first step” but said there are limitations to the policy that need to be addressed.

“America’s lowest-income renters were already struggling to pay rent and make ends meet before this latest disaster, and people were experiencing homelessness. Congress must implement a national moratorium on all evictions and foreclosures,” said Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition.

Renters tend to be more economically vulnerable than their homeowner counterparts. They have generally lower incomes and cannot tap into the equity in their homes as a line of credit in case of an emergency. A disproportionate number of renters are black, Hispanic and other minorities.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584212056629.png" alt="President Trump during the March 14th Coronavirus Task force media briefing -White House courtesy image" />
 <figcaption>President Trump during the March 14th Coronavirus Task force media briefing -White House courtesy image</figcaption>
 </figure>NEW YORK (AP) — Most Americans who rent their home, many of whom have lost their jobs in the sudden economic slowdown caused by the coronavirus outbreak, will not be eligible for eviction protections, despite what President Donald Trump said this week.Under the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s plan released Wednesday, foreclosures and evictions would stop for 60 days on single-family homes with loans through the Federal Housing Administration. That would apply to roughly 8 million units, according to HUD. Only FHA homes lived in for at least a year can be rented out.That’s compared with the roughly 43 million households who rented in 2019, according to the U.S. Census. Roughly half of renters rent their home from an individual investor, while the other half rent from a business or multi-unit property owner. The ones renting from a business will not receive any protections according to HUD’s proposal.“That’s the problem with (HUD’s proposal). It only impacts a very small amount of people. We need big-scale solutions,” said Andrea Shapiro of the Metropolitan Council on Housing, a New York-based housing advocacy organization.Furthermore, HUD has no power to protect renters in public housing authorities located across the country. HUD Secretary Ben Carson said this week on Twitter that the agency is working with Congress to get that authority to protect renters in public housing authorities.“HUD has been in contact with every Public Housing Agency in the country to ensure the millions of low-income Americans we serve continue to have a roof over their head,” Carson said.The rules are in contrast to comments made by Trump this week, who said renters would get “immediate relief” as part of his administration’s plan.Housing advocates called the White House’s proposal an “important first step” but said there are limitations to the policy that need to be addressed.“America’s lowest-income renters were already struggling to pay rent and make ends meet before this latest disaster, and people were experiencing homelessness. Congress must implement a national moratorium on all evictions and foreclosures,” said Diane Yentel, president and CEO of the National Low Income Housing Coalition.Renters tend to be more economically vulnerable than their homeowner counterparts. They have generally lower incomes and cannot tap into the equity in their homes as a line of credit in case of an emergency. A disproportionate number of renters are black, Hispanic and other minorities.

Most renters will not receive protections under virus relief proposal

In the days and weeks ahead, U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., who is also a medical doctor said it will be up to communities to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

This is the time for us to put the lid on this pandemic, he said, by staying home if your&nbsp; are sick, limiting contact and washing your hands.

"This is our chance to put a lid on it," Marshall said.

He thought the infection would have already spread more in Kansas, but believes it will likely get worse before it gets better.

Stopping large groups of people from gathering, including massive disruptions to businesses and schools, are necessary to help stop the spread, Marshall said.

"I think we have to. ... If we leave our churches open, we are going to go there and our elders and senior citizens are going to get infected," he said.

Schools and nurseries also contribute to the spread as children often spread illness making the school closures important to mitigating the virus' impact.

"For the sake of protecting those at risk for this ... we need to do everything we can to contain this virus right now," Marshall said.

While communities are working on the front lines of stopping the outbreak, Marshall has supported federal measures to help protect citizens, including increased funding for health care stockpiles, development of vaccines and antivirals and tax credits for small businesses that give employees time off for illness.

"We are expanding food stamps, expanding WIC programs as well as food banks," he said. "We are doing what we can to help small Kansans get through these hard times."

He also praised the response from President Trump.

"He has done an incredible job showing leadership," Marshall said.&nbsp;"I think the president and the administration have done everything humanly possible to protect American lives."

The travel ban on China was the right call, he said, even though it was incredibly unpopular by the national news media, with some going as far as to call the president xenophobic.

"It was absolutely the right decision," Marshall said. "It saved thousands of lives, maybe tens of thousands of American lives, by slowing down the virus."

He said the administration's actions helped to make COVID-19 test kits more available as the president worked with the private sector to get test kits mobilized.

"Today, we have millions of test kits going out throughout the country," Marshall said, and private testing centers have been brought online through the administration's actions as well.

While test kits are now more readily available, he said the CDC's slow rollout was "disappointing."

But locally tests are available — with supply meeting demand.

"So far, everybody in Kansas that has needed a test kit and has met the criteria, has gotten it done," Marshall said.

Overall, he believes we are in a much better position this week over last to deal with the crisis, but there is a lot of uncertainty ahead.

"I'm afraid to say it's going to get worse before it gets better," Marshall said.

The next two weeks are likely to be the defining time of the outbreak, he said but "this will be around for two months at a minimum."

"The hope is it will peak out here, I'm going to say in four to six weeks," Marshall said. "The question is how tall is that peak going to be."

"These next four to five days will have a huge impact on what that number looks like," he said. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Every virus we prevent today is going to prevent dozens of infections in the next couple of weeks, which is going to save lives."

Preventing the spread of the virus will prevent critical situations in rural areas.

"If we can decrease the peak, there will be less people impacted and we won't over-exceed what hospital workers we have got," Marshall said. "I know everyone is worried about respirators and all of those type of things, but really in rural America the shortage is doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists."

Marshall hopes everyone will take the social distancing policies seriously and do their part to protect their community.

He is urging everyone to do what the president has asked. 

"If you are sick, stay home. If you are over the age of 60, or you have some type of underlying health condition, stay at home. Otherwise please don't meet in groups of more than 10 people at a time, try to keep 6 feet between you. Wash your hands. About every time you touch somebody else, you should be washing your hands afterwards and, if you are going to touch people, just touch your elbows — and really I think it is socially OK to not shake hands anymore until further notice."

<div><iframe title="U.S. Representative Marshall speaks about the COVID-19 outbreak" height="122" width="100%" style="border: none;" scrolling="no" data-name="pb-iframe-player" src="https://www.podbean.com/media/player/imvt6-d69485?from=yiiadmin&download=1&version=1&skin=3&btn-skin=101&auto=1&share=1&fonts=Helvetica&download=1&rtl=0&pbad=1"></iframe></div><figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584645191976.jpeg" alt="U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, talks to constituents in January at HaysMed." />
 <figcaption>U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kansas, talks to constituents in January at HaysMed.</figcaption>
 </figure>By JAMES BELL Hays PostIn the days and weeks ahead, U.S. Rep. Roger Marshall, R-Kan., who is also a medical doctor said it will be up to communities to stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus.This is the time for us to put the lid on this pandemic, he said, by staying home if your&nbsp; are sick, limiting contact and washing your hands."This is our chance to put a lid on it," Marshall said.He thought the infection would have already spread more in Kansas, but believes it will likely get worse before it gets better.Stopping large groups of people from gathering, including massive disruptions to businesses and schools, are necessary to help stop the spread, Marshall said."I think we have to. ... If we leave our churches open, we are going to go there and our elders and senior citizens are going to get infected," he said.Schools and nurseries also contribute to the spread as children often spread illness making the school closures important to mitigating the virus' impact."For the sake of protecting those at risk for this ... we need to do everything we can to contain this virus right now," Marshall said.While communities are working on the front lines of stopping the outbreak, Marshall has supported federal measures to help protect citizens, including increased funding for health care stockpiles, development of vaccines and antivirals and tax credits for small businesses that give employees time off for illness."We are expanding food stamps, expanding WIC programs as well as food banks," he said. "We are doing what we can to help small Kansans get through these hard times."He also praised the response from President Trump."He has done an incredible job showing leadership," Marshall said.&nbsp;"I think the president and the administration have done everything humanly possible to protect American lives."The travel ban on China was the right call, he said, even though it was incredibly unpopular by the national news media, with some going as far as to call the president xenophobic."It was absolutely the right decision," Marshall said. "It saved thousands of lives, maybe tens of thousands of American lives, by slowing down the virus."He said the administration's actions helped to make COVID-19 test kits more available as the president worked with the private sector to get test kits mobilized."Today, we have millions of test kits going out throughout the country," Marshall said, and private testing centers have been brought online through the administration's actions as well.While test kits are now more readily available, he said the CDC's slow rollout was "disappointing."But locally tests are available — with supply meeting demand."So far, everybody in Kansas that has needed a test kit and has met the criteria, has gotten it done," Marshall said.Overall, he believes we are in a much better position this week over last to deal with the crisis, but there is a lot of uncertainty ahead."I'm afraid to say it's going to get worse before it gets better," Marshall said.The next two weeks are likely to be the defining time of the outbreak, he said but "this will be around for two months at a minimum.""The hope is it will peak out here, I'm going to say in four to six weeks," Marshall said. "The question is how tall is that peak going to be.""These next four to five days will have a huge impact on what that number looks like," he said. "An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Every virus we prevent today is going to prevent dozens of infections in the next couple of weeks, which is going to save lives."Preventing the spread of the virus will prevent critical situations in rural areas."If we can decrease the peak, there will be less people impacted and we won't over-exceed what hospital workers we have got," Marshall said. "I know everyone is worried about respirators and all of those type of things, but really in rural America the shortage is doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists."Marshall hopes everyone will take the social distancing policies seriously and do their part to protect their community.He is urging everyone to do what the president has asked. "If you are sick, stay home. If you are over the age of 60, or you have some type of underlying health condition, stay at home. Otherwise please don't meet in groups of more than 10 people at a time, try to keep 6 feet between you. Wash your hands. About every time you touch somebody else, you should be washing your hands afterwards and, if you are going to touch people, just touch your elbows — and really I think it is socially OK to not shake hands anymore until further notice."While the situation is serious, and he supports social distancing and school and business closures, he said media has made the situation seem worse than it is."I'm so disappointed in the national media," he said.Even though he talks to the CDC almost everyday, he said, when&nbsp;watching national TV news he is scared by the&nbsp; coverage."They make this seem so dire," Marshall said. "We have been through worse things than this in Kansas with all the winter snowstorms and droughts and floods. So many more people die from the seasonal flu every year than from this virus."We can choose to live in fear, or we can choose to live in faith," he said.While speaking with doctors, nurses, politicians and citizens about why the response to this one is so different that others, he puts much of the blame on the outbreak being sensationalized by the national media.However, he said this virus is more infectious that&nbsp; the seasonal flu and has a higher mortality rate for certain segments of the population."So it's not purely apples to apples when compared to the swine flu, or the seasonal flu, but its not exponentially worse," Marshall said. "I think we should put it all in perspective, but do everything we can to protect ourselves and err with an abundance of over-caution."He pointed out more people will be killed in car accidents and suicides today than will die from this virus, and the seasonal flu will likely kill more people than COVID-19 this year.While the full economic impact will likely not be known until much later, getting workers back into the workforce soon is more&nbsp;important than any legislation, he said, and will require everyone to do their part."The very best thing we can do for this economy right now is to keep American healthy and get us back to work as quickly as possible," Marshall said.

Coronavirus Update