Breast cancer diagnosis down 50%, sparking concerns that cancer won’t be detected soon enough

By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/10/women-imperiled-by-pandemic-skipping-breast-exams-and-battling-covid-19-with-cancer/">Kansas Reflector</a>

TOPEKA — Amid a battle with breast cancer, Kari Rawley found herself combating a second potentially fatal condition — COVID-19.

The Kansas City, Missouri,
 woman thought she had done everything right to help herself in her 
immunocompromised state. Her family wore masks and practiced social 
distancing, but after a small going away party for her daughter with 
family and close friends, Rawley tested positive, and later so did 
several other family members.

Rawley’s coronavirus 
symptoms began as they often do with aches and pains before 
transitioning to severe fatigue, breathing problems and eventually 
pneumonia. Rawley was admitted to the hospital for treatment.

“The worst part was being 
in the hospital alone and not knowing,” Rawley said. “At home, I had 
three other family members that also had COVID, and a sister and her 
husband ended up being positive also. So, the fear of the unknown and 
not knowing if it would get better or the next day I was going to end up
 on a ventilator.”

COVID-19 risks are 
amplified for immunosuppressed breast cancer patients, and women 
nationwide are opting out of coming in for mammograms for fear of 
contracting the virus. This leaves women at risk of developing advanced 
breast cancer.

Those already diagnosed, 
like Rawley, often must cease treatment that suppresses their immune 
system. Rawley, for example, was asked to hold her medication from her 
COVID-19 diagnosis until she was clinically improving.

“COVID-19 infection this 
year has been a big hurdle in the cancer world to deal with because, as 
we know, cancer doesn’t stop for COVID,” said Lauren Nye, Rawley’s 
medical oncologist at the University of Kansas Health System. “We’ve had
 to figure out ways to continue on treatments and to continue our 
screening and still take care of our patients.”

Nye said altering 
treatment is often necessary so as not to put patients at further risk, 
but this can complicate their outcome. While telehealth is an option, 
she said coming into the clinic for cancer treatment is still one of the
 safest courses of action.

A concerning trend amid 
COVID-19, however, is curbing the number of patients receiving 
treatment. Since the pandemic began, there has been a 50% drop in the 
number of breast cancer diagnoses across the country.

Jamie Wagner, chief of the
 Breast Surgery Division at KU Health System, said this is not because 
there is less breast cancer, but rather because of a fear of contracting
 COVID-19 driving people to put off breast cancer screening.

“What that then leads to 
is women finding it at more advanced stages, and that’s when they’re 
finally coming in versus what that screening mammogram would have 
otherwise picked up at an early stage,” Wagner said. “That dramatically 
changes the breast cancer treatment that we then can offer patients, and
 a lot of times it’s much, much more significant types of treatments 
they are having to receive.”

Wagner said the number of 
diagnoses did rise in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but not 
enough to offset the decrease amid the pandemic. She said women should 
still come in for a yearly screening and that they should not be worried
 about contracting coronavirus.

Patients are spaced out in
 waiting rooms, equipment is sterilized, and all technicians and 
physicians are using appropriate personal protective equipment. Online 
scheduling also allows increased flexibility and reduced chance of virus
 transmission.

“We’ve really settled on 
very good procedures. We have very good PPE stores now. There are masks 
available, and there is eye protection,” said Dana Hawkinson, medical 
director of infection prevention and control at KU Health System. “It’s 
all geared toward keeping the patients safe from each other, keeping the
 patient safe from the health care workers and keeping the health care 
workers safe from each other as well.”

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605045425157.png" alt="Kari Rawley was already battling breast cancer when she was diagnosed with COVID-19. Like many breast cancer patients, Rawley had to cease treatment that suppressed her immune system. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)" />
 <figcaption>Kari Rawley was already battling breast cancer when she was diagnosed with COVID-19. Like many breast cancer patients, Rawley had to cease treatment that suppressed her immune system. (Noah Taborda/Kansas Reflector)</figcaption>
 </figure><h2>Breast cancer diagnosis down 50%, sparking concerns that cancer won’t be detected soon enough</h2>By NOAH TABORDA <a href="https://kansasreflector.com/2020/11/10/women-imperiled-by-pandemic-skipping-breast-exams-and-battling-covid-19-with-cancer/">Kansas Reflector</a>TOPEKA — Amid a battle with breast cancer, Kari Rawley found herself combating a second potentially fatal condition — COVID-19.The Kansas City, Missouri,
 woman thought she had done everything right to help herself in her 
immunocompromised state. Her family wore masks and practiced social 
distancing, but after a small going away party for her daughter with 
family and close friends, Rawley tested positive, and later so did 
several other family members.Rawley’s coronavirus 
symptoms began as they often do with aches and pains before 
transitioning to severe fatigue, breathing problems and eventually 
pneumonia. Rawley was admitted to the hospital for treatment.“The worst part was being 
in the hospital alone and not knowing,” Rawley said. “At home, I had 
three other family members that also had COVID, and a sister and her 
husband ended up being positive also. So, the fear of the unknown and 
not knowing if it would get better or the next day I was going to end up
 on a ventilator.”COVID-19 risks are 
amplified for immunosuppressed breast cancer patients, and women 
nationwide are opting out of coming in for mammograms for fear of 
contracting the virus. This leaves women at risk of developing advanced 
breast cancer.Those already diagnosed, 
like Rawley, often must cease treatment that suppresses their immune 
system. Rawley, for example, was asked to hold her medication from her 
COVID-19 diagnosis until she was clinically improving.“COVID-19 infection this 
year has been a big hurdle in the cancer world to deal with because, as 
we know, cancer doesn’t stop for COVID,” said Lauren Nye, Rawley’s 
medical oncologist at the University of Kansas Health System. “We’ve had
 to figure out ways to continue on treatments and to continue our 
screening and still take care of our patients.”Nye said altering 
treatment is often necessary so as not to put patients at further risk, 
but this can complicate their outcome. While telehealth is an option, 
she said coming into the clinic for cancer treatment is still one of the
 safest courses of action.A concerning trend amid 
COVID-19, however, is curbing the number of patients receiving 
treatment. Since the pandemic began, there has been a 50% drop in the 
number of breast cancer diagnoses across the country.Jamie Wagner, chief of the
 Breast Surgery Division at KU Health System, said this is not because 
there is less breast cancer, but rather because of a fear of contracting
 COVID-19 driving people to put off breast cancer screening.“What that then leads to 
is women finding it at more advanced stages, and that’s when they’re 
finally coming in versus what that screening mammogram would have 
otherwise picked up at an early stage,” Wagner said. “That dramatically 
changes the breast cancer treatment that we then can offer patients, and
 a lot of times it’s much, much more significant types of treatments 
they are having to receive.”Wagner said the number of 
diagnoses did rise in October, Breast Cancer Awareness Month, but not 
enough to offset the decrease amid the pandemic. She said women should 
still come in for a yearly screening and that they should not be worried
 about contracting coronavirus.Patients are spaced out in
 waiting rooms, equipment is sterilized, and all technicians and 
physicians are using appropriate personal protective equipment. Online 
scheduling also allows increased flexibility and reduced chance of virus
 transmission.“We’ve really settled on 
very good procedures. We have very good PPE stores now. There are masks 
available, and there is eye protection,” said Dana Hawkinson, medical 
director of infection prevention and control at KU Health System. “It’s 
all geared toward keeping the patients safe from each other, keeping the
 patient safe from the health care workers and keeping the health care 
workers safe from each other as well.”

COVID-19 presents new dangers for women battling cancer, skipping exams

WICHITA – A man who led police on a high speed chase with a young child in the car has been sentenced. 

On Tuesday, District Judge Stephen Ternes sentenced Lametrius Turner, 20 of Wichita, to 16 months in prison, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.

On February 5th during a police traffic stop near Market and Mt. Vernon in Wichita, Turner drove away from an officer as she walked up to Turner's car. 

During a chase with several officers, Turner ran stop signs and red lights and threw a gun out of the car. 

The car stopped in the 2500 block of W. Wildwood, and Turner ran on foot. Police found him lying on the floor of a nearby apartment.

After Turner's arrest, a two year old child wearing a seatbelt was found in the backseat of the car. Turner's girlfriend was also in the car. She later told police that during the chase, she told Turner he should stop the car and run on foot so she and her child would be safe.

On October 10, Turner pled guilty to flee and elude and endangering a child. Turner had one 2019 conviction in Sedgwick County for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon. On January 21, he was placed on parole. 

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/2/1580923967576.png" alt="Lametrius Turner photo Sedgwick County" />
 <figcaption>Lametrius Turner photo Sedgwick County</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA – A man who led police on a high speed chase with a young child in the car has been sentenced. On Tuesday, District Judge Stephen Ternes sentenced Lametrius Turner, 20 of Wichita, to 16 months in prison, according to the Sedgwick County District Attorney.On February 5th during a police traffic stop near Market and Mt. Vernon in Wichita, Turner drove away from an officer as she walked up to Turner's car. During a chase with several officers, Turner ran stop signs and red lights and threw a gun out of the car. The car stopped in the 2500 block of W. Wildwood, and Turner ran on foot. Police found him lying on the floor of a nearby apartment.After Turner's arrest, a two year old child wearing a seatbelt was found in the backseat of the car. Turner's girlfriend was also in the car. She later told police that during the chase, she told Turner he should stop the car and run on foot so she and her child would be safe.On October 10, Turner pled guilty to flee and elude and endangering a child. Turner had one 2019 conviction in Sedgwick County for criminal possession of a weapon by a felon. On January 21, he was placed on parole.

Kan. man sentenced for police chase with child in car

Eldon Lyle Bird, age 93, of Quinter, KS, passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2020, at Andbe Home in Norton, KS. He was born in Quinter, KS on June 11, 1927 to Andrew and Mary (Anderson) Bird.&nbsp;

Eldon grew up on the family farm south of Quinter where he worked with his father. He liked to farm, work with cattle, and break horses with his dad and brother. He liked to hunt, fish, garden, visit with friends, and hunt for fossils on the farm. Eldon and his brother discovered a 12-inch fossil and some tail links of what turned out to be the “fish within a fish” that was later donated by Andrew and Mary Bird to the Sternberg Museum. He especially enjoyed “fixing broken stuff.”

Eldon enlisted in the army in 1945, and was called to duty in January of 1946, when he processed through the Denver, CO induction center. He completed basic training at Shephard Field, WA, where he was trained in demolitions and airplane mechanics. He was then sent to Clarke air base in the Philippines, where he worked on B-17’s, B-24’s, and B-29’s, all of which were primary bombers of World War II. Eldon also proudly served with the Quinter American Legion for over 50 years.

After returning home, Eldon went back to his life of farming and raising cattle, ran Bird’s K-T Fina station, worked as a meat cutter, and managed Fink grocery store for several years, eventually buying the store, which he operated for 25 years. He also had his own trucking operation, feed lot calves, and took pride in helping other local farmers. On December 9, 1957, Eldon was united in marriage to Cecelia Schmidt. To this union 2 sons were born, Gregory and Mitchell, by whom he is survived.

Eldon was preceded in death by both parents; brother Roland; and sisters Eva, Reva Lanore, Loreene, and Norma.

Services for Eldon will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Eldon Bird Memorial fund. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 Main St. Quinter, KS 67752.

Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604951367244.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Eldon Lyle Bird, age 93, of Quinter, KS, passed away Wednesday, October 22, 2020, at Andbe Home in Norton, KS. He was born in Quinter, KS on June 11, 1927 to Andrew and Mary (Anderson) Bird.&nbsp;Eldon grew up on the family farm south of Quinter where he worked with his father. He liked to farm, work with cattle, and break horses with his dad and brother. He liked to hunt, fish, garden, visit with friends, and hunt for fossils on the farm. Eldon and his brother discovered a 12-inch fossil and some tail links of what turned out to be the “fish within a fish” that was later donated by Andrew and Mary Bird to the Sternberg Museum. He especially enjoyed “fixing broken stuff.”Eldon enlisted in the army in 1945, and was called to duty in January of 1946, when he processed through the Denver, CO induction center. He completed basic training at Shephard Field, WA, where he was trained in demolitions and airplane mechanics. He was then sent to Clarke air base in the Philippines, where he worked on B-17’s, B-24’s, and B-29’s, all of which were primary bombers of World War II. Eldon also proudly served with the Quinter American Legion for over 50 years.After returning home, Eldon went back to his life of farming and raising cattle, ran Bird’s K-T Fina station, worked as a meat cutter, and managed Fink grocery store for several years, eventually buying the store, which he operated for 25 years. He also had his own trucking operation, feed lot calves, and took pride in helping other local farmers. On December 9, 1957, Eldon was united in marriage to Cecelia Schmidt. To this union 2 sons were born, Gregory and Mitchell, by whom he is survived.Eldon was preceded in death by both parents; brother Roland; and sisters Eva, Reva Lanore, Loreene, and Norma.Services for Eldon will be held at a later date. Memorial contributions are suggested to the Eldon Bird Memorial fund. Donations may be sent to Schmitt Funeral Home, 901 Main St. Quinter, KS 67752.Condolences may be left for the family by visiting www.schmittfuneral.com

Eldon Bird

Myron H. Kornmeyer, 79, passed away Sunday, November 8, 2020 at his home
 in Wilson, KS. He was born November 10, 1940 in Waldo, KS to Howard 
and Blanche (Hubbard) Kornmeyer. Myron grew up in Waldo and attended 
the Waldo school district. He was united in marriage to Janiece Pejsha 
on October 20, 2000 in Ellsworth, KS.
 Myron spent most of his life as a mechanic. He worked for Lucas 
Motive for 32 years and for the State of Kansas in Ellsworth for 5 
years. Myron was a handyman and could fix anything, but he enjoyed 
fixing old International tractors the most. He could make or find just 
about any part he needed from his scrap iron pile.
 Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Janiece of the home, nieces,
 Laura Phillips, Gail Barnes, Diana Worman, and Cindy Carnahan; and 
nephews, Joe Kornmeyer, and John Noel.
 He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Blanche; brother,
 Milton Kornmeyer; sister, Neta Mae Noel; and nephew, Joseph Noel.

Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Myron-H-Kornmeyer?obId=18906557#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604962769878.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Myron H. Kornmeyer, 79, passed away Sunday, November 8, 2020 at his home
 in Wilson, KS. He was born November 10, 1940 in Waldo, KS to Howard 
and Blanche (Hubbard) Kornmeyer. Myron grew up in Waldo and attended 
the Waldo school district. He was united in marriage to Janiece Pejsha 
on October 20, 2000 in Ellsworth, KS.
 Myron spent most of his life as a mechanic. He worked for Lucas 
Motive for 32 years and for the State of Kansas in Ellsworth for 5 
years. Myron was a handyman and could fix anything, but he enjoyed 
fixing old International tractors the most. He could make or find just 
about any part he needed from his scrap iron pile.
 Left to cherish his memory is his wife, Janiece of the home, nieces,
 Laura Phillips, Gail Barnes, Diana Worman, and Cindy Carnahan; and 
nephews, Joe Kornmeyer, and John Noel.
 He is preceded in death by his parents, Howard and Blanche; brother,
 Milton Kornmeyer; sister, Neta Mae Noel; and nephew, Joseph Noel.Click <a href="https://www.plumeroverlease.com/obituaries/Myron-H-Kornmeyer?obId=18906557#/celebrationWall">HERE</a> for service details.

Myron H. Kornmeyer

By BECKY KISER Hays Post

Hays received its first precipitation of the month overnight Monday.

According to the official report from K-State Agricultural Research Center, 0.62 inches of rain fell during a thunderstorm with lightning.

After an overnight low of 28 degrees, the rain was frozen Tuesday morning on elevated surfaces,

The rain was welcome following a dry October with just 0.16 inches of precipitation. Normal precipitation in Hays during October is 1.45 inches.

The U.S. Drought Monitor shows Ellis County with abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions as of Nov. 5.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/8/1565020359206.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By BECKY KISER Hays PostHays received its first precipitation of the month overnight Monday.According to the official report from K-State Agricultural Research Center, 0.62 inches of rain fell during a thunderstorm with lightning.After an overnight low of 28 degrees, the rain was frozen Tuesday morning on elevated surfaces,The rain was welcome following a dry October with just 0.16 inches of precipitation. Normal precipitation in Hays during October is 1.45 inches.The U.S. Drought Monitor shows Ellis County with abnormally dry to moderate drought conditions as of Nov. 5.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605030969222.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>

First precipitation of November falls in Hays; Ellis County in drought

My father, Donald Lee Davison, passed away at the Andbe Home in Norton, Kansas, on November 4, 2020, at the age of 86.  He was born to Carl and Pauline (Porter) in Lakin, Kansas, on September 10, 1934, in the middle of a dust storm.  He weighed 2.5 lbs.  He lived the first six months in the bottom dresser drawer.

Don graduated from Lakin High School in May 1956.  Following his graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and later Alaska.  While living in Alaska, where he became a bush pilot and weather man and he helped discover the jet stream.

On August 10, 1958, Don sobered up and never took a drink of alcohol again.  In 1964, he returned to Lakin and in October he met his future wife, Wanda Hawley, on a blind date.  They were married in April 1965, immediately moved to Kansas City, Missouri.  This union was blessed with two daughters, Pauline and Sharon.  In 1968, they moved Lexington, Missouri, and in 1969, they moved to Richmond, Missouri.  In August 1976, we moved to Hill City, Kansas, where dad worked as a maintenance man for Dawson Place and the hospital.  In June 1978, we moved to Lenora, Kansas, where he worked building terraces and dirt work, remodeling houses and restoring cars among many other aid jobs.

In 1987, the family moved to Lake Wales, Florida.  Dad went back to college to become a pastor.  He got a three-month position at a treatment center and it turned into a full-time job.  In April 1992, we moved to Avon Park, Florida, where he worked at South Florida College.  In May 1999, he became an ordained minister.  He worked at Avon Park Correctional Facility for many years.  Following his retirement, they moved back home to Kansas.  In June 2012, they moved to Norton where they lived with their daughter and three grandchildren.  No one was a stranger to my dad.  He has many kids and grandkids he has "adopted" along the way.  Due to his health, he moved into the Andbe Home in April 2020.

Survivors include:  his wife, Wanda Davison, of the Andbe Home in Norton; his daughters, Pauline King, Norton; Sharon (Bill) Avedesian, Avon Park, Florida; five grandchildren, Larry Keith King, Larned, Kansas; James King, Beaumont, Texas; Ricky and Andrew King, Norton; and Anna Avedesian, Avon Park, Florida; one sister, Katherine Miller, Kansas City, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Norma Hawley, Norton; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.

Don was preceded in death by his parents, his step-mother, Lois Stukey Davison, one infant brother, one sister, Velma Kay, two step-sisters, Lois Ann and Edith Ann, and one step-brother, Gordon Dale. 

Funeral services will be held at a later date and a memorial has been established to the Don Davison Memorial Fund.

My father, Donald Lee Davison, passed away at the Andbe Home in Norton, Kansas, on November 4, 2020, at the age of 86. He was born to Carl and Pauline (Porter) in Lakin, Kansas, on September 10, 1934, in the middle of a dust storm. He weighed 2.5 lbs. He lived the first six months in the bottom dresser drawer.Don graduated from Lakin High School in May 1956. Following his graduation, he enlisted in the Air Force and was stationed in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, and later Alaska. While living in Alaska, where he became a bush pilot and weather man and he helped discover the jet stream.On August 10, 1958, Don sobered up and never took a drink of alcohol again. In 1964, he returned to Lakin and in October he met his future wife, Wanda Hawley, on a blind date. They were married in April 1965, immediately moved to Kansas City, Missouri. This union was blessed with two daughters, Pauline and Sharon. In 1968, they moved Lexington, Missouri, and in 1969, they moved to Richmond, Missouri. In August 1976, we moved to Hill City, Kansas, where dad worked as a maintenance man for Dawson Place and the hospital. In June 1978, we moved to Lenora, Kansas, where he worked building terraces and dirt work, remodeling houses and restoring cars among many other aid jobs.In 1987, the family moved to Lake Wales, Florida. Dad went back to college to become a pastor. He got a three-month position at a treatment center and it turned into a full-time job. In April 1992, we moved to Avon Park, Florida, where he worked at South Florida College. In May 1999, he became an ordained minister. He worked at Avon Park Correctional Facility for many years. Following his retirement, they moved back home to Kansas. In June 2012, they moved to Norton where they lived with their daughter and three grandchildren. No one was a stranger to my dad. He has many kids and grandkids he has "adopted" along the way. Due to his health, he moved into the Andbe Home in April 2020.Survivors include: his wife, Wanda Davison, of the Andbe Home in Norton; his daughters, Pauline King, Norton; Sharon (Bill) Avedesian, Avon Park, Florida; five grandchildren, Larry Keith King, Larned, Kansas; James King, Beaumont, Texas; Ricky and Andrew King, Norton; and Anna Avedesian, Avon Park, Florida; one sister, Katherine Miller, Kansas City, Missouri; one sister-in-law, Norma Hawley, Norton; nieces and nephews; other relatives and friends.Don was preceded in death by his parents, his step-mother, Lois Stukey Davison, one infant brother, one sister, Velma Kay, two step-sisters, Lois Ann and Edith Ann, and one step-brother, Gordon Dale. Funeral services will be held at a later date and a memorial has been established to the Don Davison Memorial Fund.

Donald Lee Davison

Funeral services for Dr. Jeffrie Fox, age 49 of Beemer, NE will be on 
Thursday, November 12, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church 
in West Point, NE. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 
7:00 p.m. at the Minnick Funeral Home in West Point and will continue on
 Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. In
 lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for his 
children's future education. Cards can be sent to Minnick Funeral Home 
Attn: Fox Family 830 S. Colfax St. West Point, NE 68788 and we will 
gladly get them to the family. 
Per current COVID-19 concerns masks are encouraged while in attendance 
at the visitation and funeral and seating will be socially distanced. 
The funeral service on Thursday will be live streamed on the Minnick 
Funeral Service Facebook page at the following link, 
www.facebook.com/minnickfuneralserviceinc . 
Jeff passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at Franciscan Healthcare in West Point, NE. 
Jeffrie Thomas Fox was born on October 27, 1971, in Hays, KS to Chester 
and Glenda (Watt) Fox. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Andrew 
Catholic Church in Wright, KS. Jeff graduated high school from Dodge 
City High School in Dodge City, KS. He attended Kansas State University
 obtaining a B.S. Degree in Animal Science, became a Doctor of 
Veterinary Medicine, and later obtained his Masters Degree in Feedlot 
Management 
On September 7, 1996, he was united in marriage to Rhonda Hollrah at St.
 Paul’s Lutheran Church in Enid, OK. In October of that year he was 
confirmed as an adult at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. The couple resided
 in Enid, OK, Manhattan, KS, then in Guymon, OK for six years before 
moving to Beemer, NE in 2010. He started and operated Bovine Veterinary
 Management Resources. 
Jeff has always taken an active role in the cattle industry, where he 
served or belonged to many organizations. He was currently a member of 
the Nebraska Cattlemen serving as Committee Chairman for the Animal 
Health and Nutrition Committee. He was a member of American Veterinary 
Consultants(AVC), where he served on the Board of Directors and also 
served on the Beef Cattle Health and Well Being Committee. Jeff went to
 Washington, DC multiple times to represent AVC at the National 
Cattlemen's Beef Association Legislative Forums. Jeff was also a member
 of the Bovine Practitioners. 
Jeff was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in West Point and had 
formerly served as an Elder at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Beemer. 
He also served as a Board Member at the Indian Trails Country Club, 
rural Beemer, NE. 
Jeff was profound in his faith with God. He loved to golf, hunt 
pheasants, ducks and quail, and train hunting dogs. He took pride in 
sharing these passions with his children. Jeff had an innate ability to
 build friendships with everyone he met. He loved his K-State Football.
 Jeff’s moral compass was always pointing due North. 
Survivors include his wife-Rhonda, children-Lacie, Owen, and Chad, 
mother-Glenda and Harold Flax of Dodge City, KS, his parents-in-law-Gene
 (Hoot) and Christine Hollrah of Enid, OK, brother-Adam and Jessica Flax
 of Topeka, KS, sister-in-law-Donna and Mike Hutchison of Cibolo, TX, 
and brother-in-law-Patrick and Kristy Hollrah of Edmund, OK. He is also
 survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 
Jeff was preceded in death by his father-Chester Fox, 
grandparents-Kenneth and Anna Mae (Meem) Watt, Paul Junior and Bernice 
Shrum, and Albert and Frances Flax, and a niece-Kylie Marie Hollrah.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605021901949.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Funeral services for Dr. Jeffrie Fox, age 49 of Beemer, NE will be on 
Thursday, November 12, 2020, at 10:30 a.m. at St. Paul's Lutheran Church 
in West Point, NE. Visitation will be on Wednesday from 4:00 p.m. to 
7:00 p.m. at the Minnick Funeral Home in West Point and will continue on
 Thursday from 9:00 a.m. until the time of the service at the church. In
 lieu of flowers, memorials are suggested to the family for his 
children's future education. Cards can be sent to Minnick Funeral Home 
Attn: Fox Family 830 S. Colfax St. West Point, NE 68788 and we will 
gladly get them to the family. 
Per current COVID-19 concerns masks are encouraged while in attendance 
at the visitation and funeral and seating will be socially distanced. 
The funeral service on Thursday will be live streamed on the Minnick 
Funeral Service Facebook page at the following link, 
www.facebook.com/minnickfuneralserviceinc . 
Jeff passed away on Saturday, November 7, 2020, at Franciscan Healthcare in West Point, NE. 
Jeffrie Thomas Fox was born on October 27, 1971, in Hays, KS to Chester 
and Glenda (Watt) Fox. He was baptized and confirmed at St. Andrew 
Catholic Church in Wright, KS. Jeff graduated high school from Dodge 
City High School in Dodge City, KS. He attended Kansas State University
 obtaining a B.S. Degree in Animal Science, became a Doctor of 
Veterinary Medicine, and later obtained his Masters Degree in Feedlot 
Management 
On September 7, 1996, he was united in marriage to Rhonda Hollrah at St.
 Paul’s Lutheran Church in Enid, OK. In October of that year he was 
confirmed as an adult at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church. The couple resided
 in Enid, OK, Manhattan, KS, then in Guymon, OK for six years before 
moving to Beemer, NE in 2010. He started and operated Bovine Veterinary
 Management Resources. 
Jeff has always taken an active role in the cattle industry, where he 
served or belonged to many organizations. He was currently a member of 
the Nebraska Cattlemen serving as Committee Chairman for the Animal 
Health and Nutrition Committee. He was a member of American Veterinary 
Consultants(AVC), where he served on the Board of Directors and also 
served on the Beef Cattle Health and Well Being Committee. Jeff went to
 Washington, DC multiple times to represent AVC at the National 
Cattlemen's Beef Association Legislative Forums. Jeff was also a member
 of the Bovine Practitioners. 
Jeff was a member of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church in West Point and had 
formerly served as an Elder at Immanuel Lutheran Church, rural Beemer. 
He also served as a Board Member at the Indian Trails Country Club, 
rural Beemer, NE. 
Jeff was profound in his faith with God. He loved to golf, hunt 
pheasants, ducks and quail, and train hunting dogs. He took pride in 
sharing these passions with his children. Jeff had an innate ability to
 build friendships with everyone he met. He loved his K-State Football.
 Jeff’s moral compass was always pointing due North. 
Survivors include his wife-Rhonda, children-Lacie, Owen, and Chad, 
mother-Glenda and Harold Flax of Dodge City, KS, his parents-in-law-Gene
 (Hoot) and Christine Hollrah of Enid, OK, brother-Adam and Jessica Flax
 of Topeka, KS, sister-in-law-Donna and Mike Hutchison of Cibolo, TX, 
and brother-in-law-Patrick and Kristy Hollrah of Edmund, OK. He is also
 survived by numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins. 
Jeff was preceded in death by his father-Chester Fox, 
grandparents-Kenneth and Anna Mae (Meem) Watt, Paul Junior and Bernice 
Shrum, and Albert and Frances Flax, and a niece-Kylie Marie Hollrah.&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;

Dr. Jeffrie Fox

Patricia A. Brown, 83, Hays, died Friday, November 6, 2020 at Ellis Good Samaritan Society.

She was born February 14, 1937 in 
Newark, New Jersey, the daughter of Howard and Dorothy (Lee) Sprague.&nbsp; 
She graduated from high school in Manahawkin, New Jersey.&nbsp; In 1954 she 
was united in marriage to Paul A. Brown in Barnegat, New Jersey.&nbsp; He 
preceded her in death on October 2, 2008.&nbsp; Patricia was kindhearted, 
putting other people’s needs before her own, and she loved spending time
 with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.

Survivors include a son: Shane Brown of
 Marysville, a daughter: Patti Brown of Hays, eight grandchildren: 
Jackalyn Brown and Cheyenne Brown, both of Hays, Caleb Snow of Norton, 
Joseph Brown and Heather Brown, both of Marysville, Kimberly Cazella of 
Manhattan, Paul Brown of Wichita, and Rebekah Schukman of Springfield, 
MO, and eight great grandchildren.

She was preceded in death by her 
parents, her husband Paul, a son: Howard Brown, a daughter: Kathryn 
Brown, four brothers: Bill, Dave, Butch, and Hank Sprague, and a sister:
 Marion Franzius.

Inurnment will take place at a later 
date.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the family, payable to Patti Brown.&nbsp; 
Condolences and memories of Patricia may be shared with the family at 
www.haysmemorial.com

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1605016975327.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Patricia A. Brown, 83, Hays, died Friday, November 6, 2020 at Ellis Good Samaritan Society.She was born February 14, 1937 in 
Newark, New Jersey, the daughter of Howard and Dorothy (Lee) Sprague.&nbsp; 
She graduated from high school in Manahawkin, New Jersey.&nbsp; In 1954 she 
was united in marriage to Paul A. Brown in Barnegat, New Jersey.&nbsp; He 
preceded her in death on October 2, 2008.&nbsp; Patricia was kindhearted, 
putting other people’s needs before her own, and she loved spending time
 with her grandchildren and great grandchildren.Survivors include a son: Shane Brown of
 Marysville, a daughter: Patti Brown of Hays, eight grandchildren: 
Jackalyn Brown and Cheyenne Brown, both of Hays, Caleb Snow of Norton, 
Joseph Brown and Heather Brown, both of Marysville, Kimberly Cazella of 
Manhattan, Paul Brown of Wichita, and Rebekah Schukman of Springfield, 
MO, and eight great grandchildren.She was preceded in death by her 
parents, her husband Paul, a son: Howard Brown, a daughter: Kathryn 
Brown, four brothers: Bill, Dave, Butch, and Hank Sprague, and a sister:
 Marion Franzius.Inurnment will take place at a later 
date.&nbsp; Memorials are suggested to the family, payable to Patti Brown.&nbsp; 
Condolences and memories of Patricia may be shared with the family at 
www.haysmemorial.com

Patricia A. Brown

Crude prices rebounded from last week's huge selloff, in what appears to be a reaction to news about a possible COVID vaccine. After posting ten dollar per barrel losses last week, midday prices Monday were up nearly nine percent. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude was up $3.29 to $40.43 per barrel. London Brent jumped $3.13 to $42.58 per barrel. Prices at CHS in McPherson on Monday reflected the selloff last week with Kansas Common crude fetching $27.50 per barrel. Analysts expect that to increase alongside the national and international benchmarks. The government released its formal monthly tally of crude oil production through August, noting a slight increase in Kansas production, the third monthly increase in a row. Kansas output reached 2.32 million barrels in August, or nearly 75,000 barrels per day. Total U.S. production was down about 12 million barrels from July to just over 10.5 million barrels per day. That's down nearly 4 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a pair of operators are about to spud new wells in Barton and Stafford counties. There are seven active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, unchanged from last week, and eleven west of Wichita, up two. Baker Hughes reported a net increase of five active oil drilling rigs last week. Many states saw declines but the count in Texas was up six and New Mexico was up three. Regulators approved six new drilling permits across Kansas last week, including four in Barton County. There are five new permits in Western Kansas and one east of Wichita, for a year-to-date total of 392. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 15 new well completions for the week, ten of them east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas, including a pair of dry holes in Barton and Ellis counties and a producing development well in Russell County. Operators statewide have completed 719 wells so far this year. U.S. crude-oil inventories last week dropped eight million barrels from a week earlier. The Energy Information Administration reports total U.S. stockpiles dropped to just over 484 million barrels for the week ending October 30. EIA said Inventories currently stand about seven percent above the five-year seasonal average. The government reported a slight decrease in U.S. crude production last week. The Energy Information Administration reports average output of nearly 10.5 million barrels per day. That's down more than 600,000 barrels per day from the week before, and is down more than two million barrels per day from a year ago. Crude storage usage is at its highest level since spring. The EIA on Wednesday reported net stockpiles reached 76% of the storage capacity at Cushing, Oklahoma. That's the highest percentage since May 8. EIA reports U.S. crude imports were down 600,000 barrels to five million barrels per day. Over the last four weeks, average imports were down more than 15% from the same period a year ago. Weekly oil-by-rail numbers increased slightly last week, but continue to lag well behind last year at this time. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,202 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week ending October 31. That's up 35 rail cars from the week before, but is nearly 20% behind the same weekly total last year. Total freight-train usage was up last month, posting a two percent increase over October of last year. The State of New Mexico is considering some tough new emissions rules for the oil-patch. Regulators will hold a public meeting with about a week's worth of testimony beginning January 4. The new regulations would require the capture of 98-percent of natural gas emissions by the year 2026. Shell announced last week that it is closing one of its refineries in Louisiana, after failed attempts to sell the facility. The refinery between Baton Rouge and New Orleans can process 240,000 barrels of crude oil per day. It employs nearly 700 employees and 400 contract workers, with layoffs starting later this month. President Donald Trump surprised many last week with the removal of the chairman of the agency that regulates oil and gas pipelines and other energy infrastructure. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Chatterjee's term was set to expire next June. Axios reported his departure might have been hastened by a policy statement involving climate change issued in October. The world's largest oil exporter is cutting prices. Saudi Arabia reduced most of its oil pricing amid a cloudy energy demand outlook. State-run Saudi Aramco cut prices for all U.S. grades by 20 cents per barrel, and cut Asian pricing by ten cents. Aramco raised prices by up to a dollar a barrel for customers in the northwest Europe and Mediterranean regions. Libya's National Oil Corp, NOC, has now ended restrictions on the last crude-oil production facilities closed by an eight-month blockade. The country's output has skyrocketed since the settlement in its civil war. Reuters reported total production reached 800,000 barrels per day last week, up from just 100,000 barrels per day as recently as September. In a sign of the times, oil major BP is in talks to sell its London headquarters. The Wall Street Journal reports the company needs cash to help cover debts. Cascading oil prices may be about to get some relief from China. Bloomberg reports the world's biggest oil buyer has raised by 20% its quota for use of crude from overseas. That signals increased imports of about 823,000 barrels per day. Net profit at the world's largest crude exporter fell more than 44% in the third quarter compared to a year earlier. Saudi Aramco saw quarterly earnings drop from over $21 billion to $11.8 billion dollars, due to the continued collapse of demand and prices.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/6/1592847975802.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>By JOHN P. TRETBARCrude prices rebounded from last week's huge selloff, in what appears to be a reaction to news about a possible COVID vaccine. After posting ten dollar per barrel losses last week, midday prices Monday were up nearly nine percent. The near-month Nymex contract for light sweet crude was up $3.29 to $40.43 per barrel. London Brent jumped $3.13 to $42.58 per barrel. Prices at CHS in McPherson on Monday reflected the selloff last week with Kansas Common crude fetching $27.50 per barrel. Analysts expect that to increase alongside the national and international benchmarks. The government released its formal monthly tally of crude oil production through August, noting a slight increase in Kansas production, the third monthly increase in a row. Kansas output reached 2.32 million barrels in August, or nearly 75,000 barrels per day. Total U.S. production was down about 12 million barrels from July to just over 10.5 million barrels per day. That's down nearly 4 percent. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports a pair of operators are about to spud new wells in Barton and Stafford counties. There are seven active drilling rigs in eastern Kansas, unchanged from last week, and eleven west of Wichita, up two. Baker Hughes reported a net increase of five active oil drilling rigs last week. Many states saw declines but the count in Texas was up six and New Mexico was up three. Regulators approved six new drilling permits across Kansas last week, including four in Barton County. There are five new permits in Western Kansas and one east of Wichita, for a year-to-date total of 392. Independent Oil &amp; Gas Service reports 15 new well completions for the week, ten of them east of Wichita and five in Western Kansas, including a pair of dry holes in Barton and Ellis counties and a producing development well in Russell County. Operators statewide have completed 719 wells so far this year. U.S. crude-oil inventories last week dropped eight million barrels from a week earlier. The Energy Information Administration reports total U.S. stockpiles dropped to just over 484 million barrels for the week ending October 30. EIA said Inventories currently stand about seven percent above the five-year seasonal average. The government reported a slight decrease in U.S. crude production last week. The Energy Information Administration reports average output of nearly 10.5 million barrels per day. That's down more than 600,000 barrels per day from the week before, and is down more than two million barrels per day from a year ago. Crude storage usage is at its highest level since spring. The EIA on Wednesday reported net stockpiles reached 76% of the storage capacity at Cushing, Oklahoma. That's the highest percentage since May 8. EIA reports U.S. crude imports were down 600,000 barrels to five million barrels per day. Over the last four weeks, average imports were down more than 15% from the same period a year ago. Weekly oil-by-rail numbers increased slightly last week, but continue to lag well behind last year at this time. The Association of American Railroads reports 10,202 tanker cars hauling petroleum or petroleum products for the week ending October 31. That's up 35 rail cars from the week before, but is nearly 20% behind the same weekly total last year. Total freight-train usage was up last month, posting a two percent increase over October of last year. The State of New Mexico is considering some tough new emissions rules for the oil-patch. Regulators will hold a public meeting with about a week's worth of testimony beginning January 4. The new regulations would require the capture of 98-percent of natural gas emissions by the year 2026. Shell announced last week that it is closing one of its refineries in Louisiana, after failed attempts to sell the facility. The refinery between Baton Rouge and New Orleans can process 240,000 barrels of crude oil per day. It employs nearly 700 employees and 400 contract workers, with layoffs starting later this month. President Donald Trump surprised many last week with the removal of the chairman of the agency that regulates oil and gas pipelines and other energy infrastructure. Federal Energy Regulatory Commission. Chatterjee's term was set to expire next June. Axios reported his departure might have been hastened by a policy statement involving climate change issued in October. The world's largest oil exporter is cutting prices. Saudi Arabia reduced most of its oil pricing amid a cloudy energy demand outlook. State-run Saudi Aramco cut prices for all U.S. grades by 20 cents per barrel, and cut Asian pricing by ten cents. Aramco raised prices by up to a dollar a barrel for customers in the northwest Europe and Mediterranean regions. Libya's National Oil Corp, NOC, has now ended restrictions on the last crude-oil production facilities closed by an eight-month blockade. The country's output has skyrocketed since the settlement in its civil war. Reuters reported total production reached 800,000 barrels per day last week, up from just 100,000 barrels per day as recently as September. In a sign of the times, oil major BP is in talks to sell its London headquarters. The Wall Street Journal reports the company needs cash to help cover debts. Cascading oil prices may be about to get some relief from China. Bloomberg reports the world's biggest oil buyer has raised by 20% its quota for use of crude from overseas. That signals increased imports of about 823,000 barrels per day. Net profit at the world's largest crude exporter fell more than 44% in the third quarter compared to a year earlier. Saudi Aramco saw quarterly earnings drop from over $21 billion to $11.8 billion dollars, due to the continued collapse of demand and prices.

News From the Oil Patch: Crude prices skyrocket on vaccine news

WASHINGTON (AP) — Despite Trump administration efforts to erect a protective shield around nursing homes, coronavirus cases are surging within facilities in states hard hit by the latest onslaught of COVID-19.

An analysis of federal data from 20 states for The Associated Press finds that new weekly cases among residents rose nearly four-fold from the end of May to late October, from 1,083 to 4,274. Resident deaths more than doubled, from 318 a week to 699, according to the study by University of Chicago health researchers Rebecca Gorges and Tamara Konetzka.

Equally concerning, weekly cases among nursing home staff in surge states more than quadrupled, from 855 the week ending May 31, to 4,050 the week ending Oct. 25. That rings alarms because infected staffers not yet showing symptoms are seen as the most likely way the virus gets into facilities. When those unwitting staffers test positive, they are sidelined from caring for residents, raising pressures on remaining staff.

The administration has allocated $5 billion to nursing homes, shipped nearly 14,000 fast-test machines with a goal of supplying every facility and tried to shore up stocks of protective equipment. But the data call into question the broader White House game plan, one that pushes states to reopen while maintaining that vulnerable people can be cocooned, even if the virus rebounds around them.

“Trying to protect nursing home residents without controlling community spread is a losing battle,” said Konetzka, a nationally recognized expert on long-term care. “Someone has to care for vulnerable nursing home residents, and those caregivers move in and out of the nursing home daily, providing an easy pathway for the virus to enter.”

The nation is setting records for coronavirus cases heading into cold weather season when many experts expect the virus will be harder to contain. The seven-day rolling average for daily new cases stood at nearly 104,000 on Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.

Nursing homes and other long-term care facilities account for about 1% of the U.S. population, but represent 40% of COVID-19 deaths, according to the COVID Tracking Project.

In Fort Dodge, a manufacturing and transportation center in north-central Iowa, Julie Thorson said she knew she was in for a bad week when several employees at the Friendship Haven nursing home tested positive last Monday. As president of the senior living community, Thorson contacted the county health department. “They were basically not surprised because they’re seeing it all over the county,” she said.

Residents also started testing positive. The facility had 11 new cases among residents, as of Friday.

“I was thinking all night what’s worse, to have it hit and not know what you are getting into, or to prepare, prepare, and prepare, and then have it hit,” she said.

Responding to the study findings, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a statement saying that “the bottom line is that the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on nursing homes is complex and multifactorial.”

The agency noted different ways the administration has worked to help nursing homes and said its focus now was on ensuring that residents and staff would “immediately” have access to a vaccine once approved. But it also added that facilities “bear the primary responsibility for keeping their residents safe.”

“Many times, the likely causes of nursing home outbreaks are simply nursing homes failing to comply with basic infection control rules,” the statement said.

But Konetzka said her research has shown that nursing home quality has no significant effect on cases and deaths once community spread is factored in. “It’s not like the high-quality facilities have figured out how to do things better,” she said. Other academic experts have reached similar conclusions.

Highly rated by Medicare, St. Paul Elder Services in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, has had 72 COVID-19 cases among residents and 74 among staff, according to its Facebook page. The first case among residents was Aug. 19, and 15 have died, said the facility’s president, Sondra Norder.

“The outcomes are really not much different here than they were in New York back earlier in the pandemic,” Norder said. “It’s been called the perfect killing machine of the elderly, especially those who live in congregate settings.” Kaukauna is a small city about 100 miles north of Milwaukee.

The study, based on data reported by nursing homes to the government, also raised other concerns:

— For the week ending Oct. 25, about 1 in 6 nursing homes in surge states did not report having tested staff the prior week. Government requirements call for staff testing at least weekly in areas where the virus is spreading.

— During the same period, nearly 1 in 5 nursing homes reported shortages of basic protective supplies such as masks and gowns.

— Nearly 1 in 4 facilities reported a nurse staffing shortage.

Most of the states in the study are in the middle and northern tiers of the country.

The Commons, a senior living community in Enid, Oklahoma, that includes a nursing home, is in a coronavirus hotspot. The oil and gas hub has a positive rate approaching 18%. A local mask mandate has twice been shot down, said Steven Walkingstick, CEO of The Commons.

“From my standpoint, a mandate unfortunately is needed,” said Walkingstick. “I don’t want the government involved, but evidence has shown we are not going to do this voluntarily.”

Walkingstick said he believes the U.S. has gotten better at saving the lives of COVID-19 patients, but not at keeping the virus out of nursing homes.

Thorson, head of the Fort Dodge facility, said it takes a lot of effort to try to keep the virus out, and it’s demoralizing to see it break through.

“Don’t forget about us, because we are still here, doing the best we can in rural areas,” she said.

The 20 states analyzed in the study were Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming. They were selected because they’re now seeing their highest hospitalization rates for COVID-19.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Despite Trump administration efforts to erect a protective shield around nursing homes, coronavirus cases are surging within facilities in states hard hit by the latest onslaught of COVID-19.An analysis of federal data from 20 states for The Associated Press finds that new weekly cases among residents rose nearly four-fold from the end of May to late October, from 1,083 to 4,274. Resident deaths more than doubled, from 318 a week to 699, according to the study by University of Chicago health researchers Rebecca Gorges and Tamara Konetzka.Equally concerning, weekly cases among nursing home staff in surge states more than quadrupled, from 855 the week ending May 31, to 4,050 the week ending Oct. 25. That rings alarms because infected staffers not yet showing symptoms are seen as the most likely way the virus gets into facilities. When those unwitting staffers test positive, they are sidelined from caring for residents, raising pressures on remaining staff.The administration has allocated $5 billion to nursing homes, shipped nearly 14,000 fast-test machines with a goal of supplying every facility and tried to shore up stocks of protective equipment. But the data call into question the broader White House game plan, one that pushes states to reopen while maintaining that vulnerable people can be cocooned, even if the virus rebounds around them.“Trying to protect nursing home residents without controlling community spread is a losing battle,” said Konetzka, a nationally recognized expert on long-term care. “Someone has to care for vulnerable nursing home residents, and those caregivers move in and out of the nursing home daily, providing an easy pathway for the virus to enter.”The nation is setting records for coronavirus cases heading into cold weather season when many experts expect the virus will be harder to contain. The seven-day rolling average for daily new cases stood at nearly 104,000 on Saturday, according to data from Johns Hopkins University.Nursing homes and other long-term care facilities account for about 1% of the U.S. population, but represent 40% of COVID-19 deaths, according to the COVID Tracking Project.In Fort Dodge, a manufacturing and transportation center in north-central Iowa, Julie Thorson said she knew she was in for a bad week when several employees at the Friendship Haven nursing home tested positive last Monday. As president of the senior living community, Thorson contacted the county health department. “They were basically not surprised because they’re seeing it all over the county,” she said.Residents also started testing positive. The facility had 11 new cases among residents, as of Friday.“I was thinking all night what’s worse, to have it hit and not know what you are getting into, or to prepare, prepare, and prepare, and then have it hit,” she said.Responding to the study findings, the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services issued a statement saying that “the bottom line is that the COVID-19 pandemic’s effect on nursing homes is complex and multifactorial.”The agency noted different ways the administration has worked to help nursing homes and said its focus now was on ensuring that residents and staff would “immediately” have access to a vaccine once approved. But it also added that facilities “bear the primary responsibility for keeping their residents safe.”“Many times, the likely causes of nursing home outbreaks are simply nursing homes failing to comply with basic infection control rules,” the statement said.But Konetzka said her research has shown that nursing home quality has no significant effect on cases and deaths once community spread is factored in. “It’s not like the high-quality facilities have figured out how to do things better,” she said. Other academic experts have reached similar conclusions.Highly rated by Medicare, St. Paul Elder Services in Kaukauna, Wisconsin, has had 72 COVID-19 cases among residents and 74 among staff, according to its Facebook page. The first case among residents was Aug. 19, and 15 have died, said the facility’s president, Sondra Norder.“The outcomes are really not much different here than they were in New York back earlier in the pandemic,” Norder said. “It’s been called the perfect killing machine of the elderly, especially those who live in congregate settings.” Kaukauna is a small city about 100 miles north of Milwaukee.The study, based on data reported by nursing homes to the government, also raised other concerns:— For the week ending Oct. 25, about 1 in 6 nursing homes in surge states did not report having tested staff the prior week. Government requirements call for staff testing at least weekly in areas where the virus is spreading.— During the same period, nearly 1 in 5 nursing homes reported shortages of basic protective supplies such as masks and gowns.— Nearly 1 in 4 facilities reported a nurse staffing shortage.Most of the states in the study are in the middle and northern tiers of the country.The Commons, a senior living community in Enid, Oklahoma, that includes a nursing home, is in a coronavirus hotspot. The oil and gas hub has a positive rate approaching 18%. A local mask mandate has twice been shot down, said Steven Walkingstick, CEO of The Commons.“From my standpoint, a mandate unfortunately is needed,” said Walkingstick. “I don’t want the government involved, but evidence has shown we are not going to do this voluntarily.”Walkingstick said he believes the U.S. has gotten better at saving the lives of COVID-19 patients, but not at keeping the virus out of nursing homes.Thorson, head of the Fort Dodge facility, said it takes a lot of effort to try to keep the virus out, and it’s demoralizing to see it break through.“Don’t forget about us, because we are still here, doing the best we can in rural areas,” she said.The 20 states analyzed in the study were Alaska, Arkansas, Iowa, Idaho, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Utah, Wisconsin, West Virginia, and Wyoming. They were selected because they’re now seeing their highest hospitalization rates for COVID-19.

Nursing home COVID-19 cases rise four-fold in surge states

KANSAS CITY (AP) —U.S. voters went to the polls starkly divided on how they see President Donald Trump’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. But in places where the virus is most rampant now, Trump enjoyed enormous support.

An Associated Press analysis reveals that in 376 counties with the highest number of new cases per capita, the overwhelming majority — 93% of those counties — went for Trump, a rate above other less severely hit areas.

Most were rural counties in Montana, the Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa and Wisconsin — the kinds of areas that often have lower rates of adherence to social distancing, mask-wearing and other public health measures, and have been a focal point for much of the latest surge in cases.

Taking note of the contrast, state health officials are pausing for a moment of introspection. Even as they worry about rising numbers of hospitalizations and deaths, they hope to reframe their messages and aim for a reset on public sentiment now that the election is over.

“Public health officials need to step back, listen to and understand the people who aren’t taking the same stance” on mask-wearing and other control measures, said Dr. Marcus Plescia of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials.

“I think there’s the potential for things to get less charged and divisive,” he said, adding that there’s a chance a retooled public health message might unify Americans around lowering case counts so hospitals won’t get swamped during the winter months.

The electoral divide comes amid an explosion in cases and hospitalizations in the U.S. and globally.

The U.S. broke another record in the 7-day rolling average for daily new cases, hitting nearly 90,000. The tally for new cases Thursday was on track for another day above 100,000, with massive numbers reported all around the country, including a combined nearly 25,000 in Texas, Illinois and Florida. Iowa and Indiana each reported more than 4,000 cases as well.

The AP’s analysis was limited to counties in which at least 95% of precincts had reported results, and grouped counties into six categories based on the rates of COVID-19 cases they’d experienced per 100,000 residents.

Polling, too, shows voters who split on Republican Trump vs. Democrat Joe Biden differed on whether the pandemic is under control.

Thirty-six percent of Trump voters described the pandemic as completely or mostly under control, and another 47% said it was somewhat under control, according to AP VoteCast, a nationwide survey of more than 110,000 voters conducted for the AP by NORC at the University of Chicago. Meanwhile, 82% of Biden voters said the pandemic is not at all under control.

The pandemic was considered at least somewhat under control by slim majorities of voters in many red states, including Alabama (60%), Missouri (54%), Mississippi (58%), Kentucky (55%), Texas (55%), Tennessee (56%) and South Carolina (56%).

In Wisconsin, where the virus surged just before the election, 57% said the pandemic was not under control. In Washington state, where the virus is more in control now compared to earlier in the year, 55% said the same. Voters in New York and New Hampshire, where the virus is more controlled now after early surges, were roughly divided in their assessments, similar to voters nationwide.

Trump voters interviewed by AP reporters said they value individual freedom and believed the president was doing as well as anyone could in response to the coronavirus.

Michaela Lane, a 25-year-old Republican, dropped her ballot off last week at a polling site at an outdoor mall in Phoenix. She cast her vote for Trump.

“I feel like the most important issue facing the country as a whole is liberty at large,” Lane said. “Infringing on people’s freedom, government overrule, government overreach, chaos in a lot of issues currently going on and just giving people back their rights.”

About half of Trump voters called the economy and jobs the top issue facing the nation, roughly twice the percentage who named the pandemic, according to VoteCast. By contrast, a majority of Biden voters — about 6 in 10 — said the pandemic was the most important issue.

In Madison, Wisconsin, Eric Engstrom, a 31-year-old investment analyst and his wife, Gwen, voted absentee by mail in early October.

Trump’s failure to control the pandemic sealed his vote for Biden, Engstrom said, calling the coronavirus the most immediate threat the nation faces. He and his wife are expecting their first child, a girl, in January and fear “the potential of one of us or both of us being sick when the baby is born,” he said.

Engstrom called Trump’s response to the virus abysmal. “If there was any chance that I was going to vote for Trump, it was eliminated because of the pandemic,” he said.

The political temperature has added to the stress of public health officials, Plescia said. “Our biggest concern is how long can they sustain this pace?” he said.

Since the start of the pandemic, 74 state and local public health officials in 31 states have resigned, retired or been fired, according to an ongoing analysis by AP and Kaiser Health News.

As the election mood dissipates, rising hospitalizations amid colder weather create “a really pivotal moment” in the pandemic, said Sema Sgaier, executive director of the Surgo Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that worked with Harvard University-affiliated Ariadne Labs to develop a tool for estimating vaccine needs in states.

“We really need to get our act together. When I say ‘we’ I mean collectively,” Sgaier said. Finding common ground may become easier if one of more of the vaccine candidates proves safe and effective and gains government approval, she said.

“The vaccine provides the reset button,” Sgaier said.

Dr. Anthony Fauci may be another unifying force. According to VoteCast, 73% of voters nationwide approve of the way Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has been handling the pandemic.

Even among Trump voters, 53% approve of Fauci’s performance. About 9 in 10 Biden voters approve.

KANSAS CITY (AP) —U.S. voters went to the polls starkly divided on how they see President Donald Trump’s response to the coronavirus pandemic. But in places where the virus is most rampant now, Trump enjoyed enormous support.An Associated Press analysis reveals that in 376 counties with the highest number of new cases per capita, the overwhelming majority — 93% of those counties — went for Trump, a rate above other less severely hit areas.Most were rural counties in Montana, the Dakotas, Nebraska, Kansas, Iowa and Wisconsin — the kinds of areas that often have lower rates of adherence to social distancing, mask-wearing and other public health measures, and have been a focal point for much of the latest surge in cases.Taking note of the contrast, state health officials are pausing for a moment of introspection. Even as they worry about rising numbers of hospitalizations and deaths, they hope to reframe their messages and aim for a reset on public sentiment now that the election is over.“Public health officials need to step back, listen to and understand the people who aren’t taking the same stance” on mask-wearing and other control measures, said Dr. Marcus Plescia of the Association of State and Territorial Health Officials.“I think there’s the potential for things to get less charged and divisive,” he said, adding that there’s a chance a retooled public health message might unify Americans around lowering case counts so hospitals won’t get swamped during the winter months.The electoral divide comes amid an explosion in cases and hospitalizations in the U.S. and globally.The U.S. broke another record in the 7-day rolling average for daily new cases, hitting nearly 90,000. The tally for new cases Thursday was on track for another day above 100,000, with massive numbers reported all around the country, including a combined nearly 25,000 in Texas, Illinois and Florida. Iowa and Indiana each reported more than 4,000 cases as well.The AP’s analysis was limited to counties in which at least 95% of precincts had reported results, and grouped counties into six categories based on the rates of COVID-19 cases they’d experienced per 100,000 residents.Polling, too, shows voters who split on Republican Trump vs. Democrat Joe Biden differed on whether the pandemic is under control.Thirty-six percent of Trump voters described the pandemic as completely or mostly under control, and another 47% said it was somewhat under control, according to AP VoteCast, a nationwide survey of more than 110,000 voters conducted for the AP by NORC at the University of Chicago. Meanwhile, 82% of Biden voters said the pandemic is not at all under control.The pandemic was considered at least somewhat under control by slim majorities of voters in many red states, including Alabama (60%), Missouri (54%), Mississippi (58%), Kentucky (55%), Texas (55%), Tennessee (56%) and South Carolina (56%).In Wisconsin, where the virus surged just before the election, 57% said the pandemic was not under control. In Washington state, where the virus is more in control now compared to earlier in the year, 55% said the same. Voters in New York and New Hampshire, where the virus is more controlled now after early surges, were roughly divided in their assessments, similar to voters nationwide.Trump voters interviewed by AP reporters said they value individual freedom and believed the president was doing as well as anyone could in response to the coronavirus.Michaela Lane, a 25-year-old Republican, dropped her ballot off last week at a polling site at an outdoor mall in Phoenix. She cast her vote for Trump.“I feel like the most important issue facing the country as a whole is liberty at large,” Lane said. “Infringing on people’s freedom, government overrule, government overreach, chaos in a lot of issues currently going on and just giving people back their rights.”About half of Trump voters called the economy and jobs the top issue facing the nation, roughly twice the percentage who named the pandemic, according to VoteCast. By contrast, a majority of Biden voters — about 6 in 10 — said the pandemic was the most important issue.In Madison, Wisconsin, Eric Engstrom, a 31-year-old investment analyst and his wife, Gwen, voted absentee by mail in early October.Trump’s failure to control the pandemic sealed his vote for Biden, Engstrom said, calling the coronavirus the most immediate threat the nation faces. He and his wife are expecting their first child, a girl, in January and fear “the potential of one of us or both of us being sick when the baby is born,” he said.Engstrom called Trump’s response to the virus abysmal. “If there was any chance that I was going to vote for Trump, it was eliminated because of the pandemic,” he said.The political temperature has added to the stress of public health officials, Plescia said. “Our biggest concern is how long can they sustain this pace?” he said.Since the start of the pandemic, 74 state and local public health officials in 31 states have resigned, retired or been fired, according to an ongoing analysis by AP and Kaiser Health News.As the election mood dissipates, rising hospitalizations amid colder weather create “a really pivotal moment” in the pandemic, said Sema Sgaier, executive director of the Surgo Foundation, a Washington, D.C.-based nonprofit that worked with Harvard University-affiliated Ariadne Labs to develop a tool for estimating vaccine needs in states.“We really need to get our act together. When I say ‘we’ I mean collectively,” Sgaier said. Finding common ground may become easier if one of more of the vaccine candidates proves safe and effective and gains government approval, she said.“The vaccine provides the reset button,” Sgaier said.Dr. Anthony Fauci may be another unifying force. According to VoteCast, 73% of voters nationwide approve of the way Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, has been handling the pandemic.Even among Trump voters, 53% approve of Fauci’s performance. About 9 in 10 Biden voters approve.___

Counties with worst virus surges overwhelmingly voted Trump

Carrol D. Ribbing, age 73, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2020, at the Wichita County Hospital in Leoti, Kansas.  He was born on October 27, 1947, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Eugene &amp; Geraldine Ribbing.  A resident of Leoti, Kansas since 1986 moving from Scott City, Kansas, he was a retired Truck Driver and was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.

He was a member of the American Legion and was past commander and was a US Selective Service Representative. 

On July 31, 1966, he married Kay Sloan.  She survives.  On April 12, 1986 he married Marlene Ford Armstrong in Leoti, Kansas.  She survives.

Survivors include his wife - Marlene Ribbing of Leoti, Kansas, One Son - Timothy &amp; Diane Nichols of Wichita, Kansas; One Daughter - Tamara &amp; Shad Hipp of Garden City, Kansas; One Step-Son - Chad &amp; Linda Armstrong of Scott City, Kansas; One Brother - Darrel &amp; Marg Ribbing of Ashland, Kansas; 3 Sisters - Ellen &amp; Ellis Hahn of Lakin, Kansas, Kaye Cronin of Garden City, Kansas, Patricia &amp; Billie Swilley of Scott City, Kansas; 6 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.

He was preceded in death by his Parents and One Brother - Larry Ribbing.

Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the Presbyterian Church in Leoti, Kansas with Terry Laws presiding.

Burial will be in the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.

Memorials In Lieu Of Flowers may be made to the Leoti EMS or the Wichita County Health Center in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Homes.

Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday and 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Leoti, Kansas.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604847854716.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Carrol D. Ribbing, age 73, passed away on Friday, November 6, 2020, at the Wichita County Hospital in Leoti, Kansas. He was born on October 27, 1947, in Garden City, Kansas, the son of Eugene &amp; Geraldine Ribbing. A resident of Leoti, Kansas since 1986 moving from Scott City, Kansas, he was a retired Truck Driver and was a US Army Veteran of the Vietnam War.He was a member of the American Legion and was past commander and was a US Selective Service Representative. On July 31, 1966, he married Kay Sloan. She survives. On April 12, 1986 he married Marlene Ford Armstrong in Leoti, Kansas. She survives.Survivors include his wife - Marlene Ribbing of Leoti, Kansas, One Son - Timothy &amp; Diane Nichols of Wichita, Kansas; One Daughter - Tamara &amp; Shad Hipp of Garden City, Kansas; One Step-Son - Chad &amp; Linda Armstrong of Scott City, Kansas; One Brother - Darrel &amp; Marg Ribbing of Ashland, Kansas; 3 Sisters - Ellen &amp; Ellis Hahn of Lakin, Kansas, Kaye Cronin of Garden City, Kansas, Patricia &amp; Billie Swilley of Scott City, Kansas; 6 grandchildren and several nieces and nephews.He was preceded in death by his Parents and One Brother - Larry Ribbing.Funeral Services will be held at 10:30 a.m. on Saturday, November 14, 2020 at the Presbyterian Church in Leoti, Kansas with Terry Laws presiding.Burial will be in the Leoti Cemetery in Leoti, Kansas.Memorials In Lieu Of Flowers may be made to the Leoti EMS or the Wichita County Health Center in care of Price &amp; Sons Funeral Homes.Visitation will be from 2:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. Thursday and 10:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. Friday at Price &amp; Sons Funeral Home in Leoti, Kansas.

Carrol D. Ribbing

The Travel Association of Kansas announced the winners of this year’s Marketing Awards during the virtual 2020 Kansas Tourism Conference on October 28.

The TIAK Marketing Awards are chosen annually to recognize excellence in destination marketing initiatives across the state. They are divided into six categories and broken out by the organization’s marketing budget: Large (over $100,000), Medium (20,000 – $100,000), and Small ($19,999 and under).

Congratulations to the following winners:

Community Awareness Small Budget:&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Travel Council - Community Guide Medium Budget:&nbsp;Abilene CVB - #AbileneStrong Campaign Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - #SupportLocalKCK Campaign

Event Small Budget:&nbsp;Downtown Hays Development Corp - Virtual March 2 Main Welcome for Students Large Budget:&nbsp;Olathe CVB - Virtual Olathe Fourth Fridays

Print Small Budget:&nbsp;Seneca Area Chamber - Big Kansas Road Trip Program Guide Ad Medium Budget:&nbsp;City of Great Bend CVB: Zoo Rack Card Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - KCK Coloring Pages

Online Media Small Budget:&nbsp;Seneca Area Chamber: Big Kansas Road Trip Video Medium Budget:&nbsp;City of Great Bend CVB, Explore Great Bend Website Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - KCK Mini-Escape Campaign

Visitors Guide (in-house) Small Budget:&nbsp;South Central Kansas Tourism Region Medium Budget:&nbsp;Merriam Visitors Bureau Large Budget:&nbsp;Hays CVB

Visitors Guide (outsourced) Small Budget:&nbsp;Visit Shawnee Medium Budget:&nbsp;Visit Manhattan Large Budget:&nbsp;Explore Lawrence

Best In Show Seneca Area Chamber &amp; Downtown Impact - Big Kansas Road Trip Video

30 for 30 Best Marketing Idea:&nbsp;Downtown Hays Development Corporation - Dining with Downtown event

About TIAK:&nbsp;TIAK is a statewide membership organization whose mission is to speak with one voice for the travel and tourism industry in Kansas by supporting all components of the travel development field. Its goals are to influence government decisions, provide a forum for interaction among all industry sectors, and develop programs that positively reflect the impact of tourism on the state and local economies.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2019/12/1575300742886.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Travel Association of Kansas announced the winners of this year’s Marketing Awards during the virtual 2020 Kansas Tourism Conference on October 28.The TIAK Marketing Awards are chosen annually to recognize excellence in destination marketing initiatives across the state. They are divided into six categories and broken out by the organization’s marketing budget: Large (over $100,000), Medium (20,000 – $100,000), and Small ($19,999 and under).Congratulations to the following winners:Community Awareness Small Budget:&nbsp;Northwest Kansas Travel Council - Community Guide Medium Budget:&nbsp;Abilene CVB - #AbileneStrong Campaign Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - #SupportLocalKCK CampaignEvent Small Budget:&nbsp;Downtown Hays Development Corp - Virtual March 2 Main Welcome for Students Large Budget:&nbsp;Olathe CVB - Virtual Olathe Fourth FridaysPrint Small Budget:&nbsp;Seneca Area Chamber - Big Kansas Road Trip Program Guide Ad Medium Budget:&nbsp;City of Great Bend CVB: Zoo Rack Card Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - KCK Coloring PagesOnline Media Small Budget:&nbsp;Seneca Area Chamber: Big Kansas Road Trip Video Medium Budget:&nbsp;City of Great Bend CVB, Explore Great Bend Website Large Budget:&nbsp;Visit Kansas City, KS - KCK Mini-Escape CampaignVisitors Guide (in-house) Small Budget:&nbsp;South Central Kansas Tourism Region Medium Budget:&nbsp;Merriam Visitors Bureau Large Budget:&nbsp;Hays CVBVisitors Guide (outsourced) Small Budget:&nbsp;Visit Shawnee Medium Budget:&nbsp;Visit Manhattan Large Budget:&nbsp;Explore LawrenceBest In Show Seneca Area Chamber &amp; Downtown Impact - Big Kansas Road Trip Video30 for 30 Best Marketing Idea:&nbsp;Downtown Hays Development Corporation - Dining with Downtown eventAbout TIAK:&nbsp;TIAK is a statewide membership organization whose mission is to speak with one voice for the travel and tourism industry in Kansas by supporting all components of the travel development field. Its goals are to influence government decisions, provide a forum for interaction among all industry sectors, and develop programs that positively reflect the impact of tourism on the state and local economies.

Hays CVB, DHDC recognized with tourism awards

WICHITA, KAN. – A convicted sex offender who lives in Wichita was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of sexually exploiting a minor, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.

Bryan Anthony Hale, 35, Wichita, is charged with one count of producing child pornography, one count of committing a crime involving a minor while registered as a sex offender, one count of providing child pornography to a minor and one count of possessing child pornography. The crimes are alleged to have occurred during September and October 2020 in Sedgwick County, Kan.

In 2016, Hale was convicted in Sedgwick County District Court of a sex act involving a 6-year-old victim.&nbsp;

Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following potential penalties:

Producing child pornography: Not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.

Crime involving a minor: Up to 10 years (consecutive).

Providing child pornography to a minor: Not less than five years and not more than 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.

Possession: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604521164987.png" alt="Hale photo KBI Offender Registry" />
 <figcaption>Hale photo KBI Offender Registry</figcaption>
 </figure>WICHITA, KAN. – A convicted sex offender who lives in Wichita was indicted Wednesday on federal charges of sexually exploiting a minor, according to U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister.Bryan Anthony Hale, 35, Wichita, is charged with one count of producing child pornography, one count of committing a crime involving a minor while registered as a sex offender, one count of providing child pornography to a minor and one count of possessing child pornography. The crimes are alleged to have occurred during September and October 2020 in Sedgwick County, Kan.In 2016, Hale was convicted in Sedgwick County District Court of a sex act involving a 6-year-old victim.&nbsp;Upon conviction, the crimes carry the following potential penalties:Producing child pornography: Not less than 15 years and not more than 30 years in federal prison and a fine up to $250,000.Crime involving a minor: Up to 10 years (consecutive).Providing child pornography to a minor: Not less than five years and not more than 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.Possession: Up to 20 years and a fine up to $250,000.The FBI investigated.&nbsp;

Kan. sex offender charged with providing minor with child porn

By CELAI LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-06/while-the-coronavirus-pandemic-rages-on-kansas-families-flock-to-get-their-flu-shots">Kansas News Service</a>

This year, nurses in southeast Kansas are taking a NASCAR-style approach in the race against the flu.

Imagine
 a pit crew, said Lori Rexwinkle, head of nursing at a community health 
center that serves 10 counties. Except instead of speed-swapping tires, 
this team vaccinates passengers. Got a van full of kids? Just pull it on
 up.

“We had several different nurses going out to the vehicle at the same time,” Rexwinkle said. “Parents appreciated that.”

Offering
 drive-thrus this season helped Community Health Center of Southeast 
Kansas vaccinate about 9,000 people, more than twice as many people by 
late October as it did a year earlier.

Across the state, clinics 
and drug stores say they’re giving far more flu shots than in years 
past. Families are eager for the shots in a year when they’ve been 
trying to hide out from a deadly pandemic.

It’s a bright spot at an otherwise dark time for Kansas health care. Over
 the past month, the state saw a steep jump in COVID-19 
hospitalizations. Some hospitals shut down elective surgeries again or 
ran out of intensive care beds.

If fewer Kansans get the flu than 
usual, that would save doctors, nurses, supplies and hospital beds for 
patients with the more aggressive and deadlier COVID-19.

“There’s 
going to be a lot of confusion” this winter, said Bethanie McDowell. She
 directs infection prevention at the Salina Regional Health Center. “‘Do
 I have the flu? Do I have COVID?’ So it’s really important this year 
that we do get those flu shots.”

Normally four or five out of 10 Kansans get the flu shot, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/fluvaxview/reportshtml/trends/index.html" target="_blank">the CDC</a> estimates. (The same is true of Americans overall.)

But health officials see signs that this year looks different. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ordered <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/cdc-director-push-vaccinate-65-americans-against-flu" target="_blank">nearly 9 million extra doses</a> this year.

<a href="https://www.statnews.com/2020/09/25/flu-shots-covid-19-pandemic-demand/" target="_blank">Big pharmacy chains</a>
 also stocked up. CVS Health surveyed consumers months ago and found 
most expected to get the shot, and to do it earlier in the flu season 
than years past.

“We are prepared to administer 18 million flu shots this flu season, which is twice last season,” a spokesman said in an email.

Some
 nurses and pharmacists fielded a barrage of calls starting late in the 
summer. People wondered when the shot would become available — and where
 to get it. Local employers and agencies asked about holding mini flu 
clinics.

The demand ate through Konza Prairie Community Health 
Center’s stock by mid-October. It typically buys 400 to 600 doses of 
vaccine each season for its communities in Manhattan and Junction City 
and uses those up over the course of several months.

“We have already gone through that amount,” CEO Lee Wolf said, “and have ordered more.”

In Wyandotte County, Vibrant Health community clinics gave 500 flu shots last month, compared to 200 in October 2019.

In
 Wichita, Guadalupe Clinic gave 300 of the shots at a recent community 
event compared to 190 a year earlier. It turned away another 40 to 50 
people.

And in Salina, at an early-October flu shot clinic, 300 more children got shots than the previous year.

It’s
 possible Kansans who normally get the shot simply want it earlier this 
time. Or, the vaccine rate could go up this year. Either way, more 
people getting the shot earlier has benefits. Medical experts recommend 
it before prime flu season hits because it can take <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/in-depth/flu-shots/art-20048000" target="_blank">a couple of weeks</a> for the body to mount its defenses.

Annie
 Shelton is a pharmacist in charge of flu vaccine stock and distribution
 for the University of Kansas Health System. If demand increases 
significantly this year, the health system should be able to handle it. 
It has enough doses on hand to vaccinate nearly 60,000 people — about 
30% more than last year.

“We’re also, like everyone else in the nation, on waitlists with our manufacturers,” she said, in case more is needed.

Far from waning, the coronavirus has fed off of people’s impatience with social distancing. The situation is precarious.

In southeast Kansas, The <a href="https://www.morningsun.net/news/20201013/county-health-officials-consider-policy-changes-as-area-hospitals-reach-capacity" target="_blank">Pittsburg Morning Sun</a>
 reported in mid-October that the local hospital stopped elective care 
to handle a coronavirus surge and that facilities across the Missouri 
border in Joplin had run out of beds.

A few weeks later, hospitals in <a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/coronavirus/article246924192.html" target="_blank">Wichita</a> and <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-10-30/western-kansas-is-full-of-coronavirus-hot-spots-tying-up-icu-beds" target="_blank">Garden City</a> said their ICU beds were full.

Last week, the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, opened up an <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-10-30/hospitals-have-less-capacity-than-missouris-covid-19-website-shows-federal-data-indicate" target="_blank">overflow ICU</a>.
 And Johnson County health officials reported the most new cases they’d 
seen in a single day. They attribute the ongoing spike to people 
crowding restaurants and bars and mingling at “football watch parties, 
birthday parties, camps, weddings and church events.”

This week, Stormont Vail Health in Topeka and the <a href="https://www.medicalnewsnetwork.org/NewsNetwork/DocTalk/C/Coronavirus%20Media%20Briefing%20Wednesday%2011-4-20" target="_blank">KU Health System</a> said they’re seeing their highest numbers so far of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.

<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">COVID-19 hospitalizations</a> climbed sharply in October, as reported by hospitals to the state.

On
 an average day back in April, when the state was locked down, 104 
people were in the hospital with coronavirus. By May, that climbed to 
196 people on an average day. Here’s what has happened since:

In recent days, the number of hospitalized coronavirus patients has topped 550.

The southern hemisphere saw a very <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/08/26/906323250/from-the-global-south-hints-that-u-s-may-be-spared-flu-on-top-of-covid-19" target="_blank">mild flu season</a>
 this year. That could reflect some combination of the social distancing
 — including the closing of schools and workplaces — and expanded flu 
vaccination efforts spurred by COVID-19.

The virus that causes COVID-19 hits more people harder than the flu does, but the flu still kills <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html#:~:text=CDC%20estimates%20that%20influenza%20has,61%2C000%20deaths%20annually%20since%202010." target="_blank">tens of thousands</a> of Americans each year — upwards of 50,000 during bad flu seasons — and hospitalizes hundreds of thousands.

Symptoms of the two diseases may appear similar, but coronavirus tends to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm" target="_blank">incubate longer</a> and people who contract it appear to be more contagious (at least among adults) and for longer than those who pick up the flu.

The <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/in-depth/flu-shots/art-20048000" target="_blank">vaccine</a>
 doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick. Rather, it cuts your risk of 
coming down with the flu or getting a bad case of it. And because 
they’re not made with live viruses, you <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm" target="_blank">can’t get the flu from a flu shot</a>.

Dana Hawkinson heads infection prevention for the KU Health System and cares for COVID-19 patients.

A bad bout of the flu can not only cause lung damage, he said. It can saddle patients with other problems.

“We know that you’re at very high risk of getting a secondary bacterial pneumonia,” he said. “Typically that is staph or strep.”

The last thing you’d want at that point is to deal with COVID-19, too.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/11/1604672592841.png" alt="A person gets their flu shot at a vaccine drive-through in the Kansas City area last month. Drive-throughs like this are a popular way to get a flu shot amid the coronavirus pandemic. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3" />
 <figcaption>A person gets their flu shot at a vaccine drive-through in the Kansas City area last month. Drive-throughs like this are a popular way to get a flu shot amid the coronavirus pandemic. Carlos Moreno/KCUR 89.3</figcaption>
 </figure>By CELAI LLOPIS-JEPSEN <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-11-06/while-the-coronavirus-pandemic-rages-on-kansas-families-flock-to-get-their-flu-shots">Kansas News Service</a>This year, nurses in southeast Kansas are taking a NASCAR-style approach in the race against the flu.Imagine
 a pit crew, said Lori Rexwinkle, head of nursing at a community health 
center that serves 10 counties. Except instead of speed-swapping tires, 
this team vaccinates passengers. Got a van full of kids? Just pull it on
 up.“We had several different nurses going out to the vehicle at the same time,” Rexwinkle said. “Parents appreciated that.”Offering
 drive-thrus this season helped Community Health Center of Southeast 
Kansas vaccinate about 9,000 people, more than twice as many people by 
late October as it did a year earlier.Across the state, clinics 
and drug stores say they’re giving far more flu shots than in years 
past. Families are eager for the shots in a year when they’ve been 
trying to hide out from a deadly pandemic.It’s a bright spot at an otherwise dark time for Kansas health care. Over
 the past month, the state saw a steep jump in COVID-19 
hospitalizations. Some hospitals shut down elective surgeries again or 
ran out of intensive care beds.If fewer Kansans get the flu than 
usual, that would save doctors, nurses, supplies and hospital beds for 
patients with the more aggressive and deadlier COVID-19.“There’s 
going to be a lot of confusion” this winter, said Bethanie McDowell. She
 directs infection prevention at the Salina Regional Health Center. “‘Do
 I have the flu? Do I have COVID?’ So it’s really important this year 
that we do get those flu shots.”<h2>Bucking the trend?</h2>Normally four or five out of 10 Kansans get the flu shot, <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/fluvaxview/reportshtml/trends/index.html" target="_blank">the CDC</a> estimates. (The same is true of Americans overall.)But health officials see signs that this year looks different. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention ordered <a href="https://www.ama-assn.org/delivering-care/public-health/cdc-director-push-vaccinate-65-americans-against-flu" target="_blank">nearly 9 million extra doses</a> this year.<a href="https://www.statnews.com/2020/09/25/flu-shots-covid-19-pandemic-demand/" target="_blank">Big pharmacy chains</a>
 also stocked up. CVS Health surveyed consumers months ago and found 
most expected to get the shot, and to do it earlier in the flu season 
than years past.“We are prepared to administer 18 million flu shots this flu season, which is twice last season,” a spokesman said in an email.Some
 nurses and pharmacists fielded a barrage of calls starting late in the 
summer. People wondered when the shot would become available — and where
 to get it. Local employers and agencies asked about holding mini flu 
clinics.The demand ate through Konza Prairie Community Health 
Center’s stock by mid-October. It typically buys 400 to 600 doses of 
vaccine each season for its communities in Manhattan and Junction City 
and uses those up over the course of several months.“We have already gone through that amount,” CEO Lee Wolf said, “and have ordered more.”In Wyandotte County, Vibrant Health community clinics gave 500 flu shots last month, compared to 200 in October 2019.In
 Wichita, Guadalupe Clinic gave 300 of the shots at a recent community 
event compared to 190 a year earlier. It turned away another 40 to 50 
people.And in Salina, at an early-October flu shot clinic, 300 more children got shots than the previous year.It’s
 possible Kansans who normally get the shot simply want it earlier this 
time. Or, the vaccine rate could go up this year. Either way, more 
people getting the shot earlier has benefits. Medical experts recommend 
it before prime flu season hits because it can take <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/in-depth/flu-shots/art-20048000" target="_blank">a couple of weeks</a> for the body to mount its defenses.Annie
 Shelton is a pharmacist in charge of flu vaccine stock and distribution
 for the University of Kansas Health System. If demand increases 
significantly this year, the health system should be able to handle it. 
It has enough doses on hand to vaccinate nearly 60,000 people — about 
30% more than last year.“We’re also, like everyone else in the nation, on waitlists with our manufacturers,” she said, in case more is needed.<h2>The COVID-19 surge</h2>Far from waning, the coronavirus has fed off of people’s impatience with social distancing. The situation is precarious.In southeast Kansas, The <a href="https://www.morningsun.net/news/20201013/county-health-officials-consider-policy-changes-as-area-hospitals-reach-capacity" target="_blank">Pittsburg Morning Sun</a>
 reported in mid-October that the local hospital stopped elective care 
to handle a coronavirus surge and that facilities across the Missouri 
border in Joplin had run out of beds.A few weeks later, hospitals in <a href="https://www.kansas.com/news/coronavirus/article246924192.html" target="_blank">Wichita</a> and <a href="https://www.kcur.org/news/2020-10-30/western-kansas-is-full-of-coronavirus-hot-spots-tying-up-icu-beds" target="_blank">Garden City</a> said their ICU beds were full.Last week, the University of Kansas Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, opened up an <a href="https://www.kcur.org/health/2020-10-30/hospitals-have-less-capacity-than-missouris-covid-19-website-shows-federal-data-indicate" target="_blank">overflow ICU</a>.
 And Johnson County health officials reported the most new cases they’d 
seen in a single day. They attribute the ongoing spike to people 
crowding restaurants and bars and mingling at “football watch parties, 
birthday parties, camps, weddings and church events.”This week, Stormont Vail Health in Topeka and the <a href="https://www.medicalnewsnetwork.org/NewsNetwork/DocTalk/C/Coronavirus%20Media%20Briefing%20Wednesday%2011-4-20" target="_blank">KU Health System</a> said they’re seeing their highest numbers so far of hospitalized COVID-19 patients.<a href="https://www.coronavirus.kdheks.gov/160/COVID-19-in-Kansas" target="_blank">COVID-19 hospitalizations</a> climbed sharply in October, as reported by hospitals to the state.On
 an average day back in April, when the state was locked down, 104 
people were in the hospital with coronavirus. By May, that climbed to 
196 people on an average day. Here’s what has happened since:<ul>
 <li>On an average day in June, 170 people</li><li>On an average day in July, 275 people</li><li>On an average day in August, 287 people</li><li>On an average day in September, 304 people</li><li>On an average day in October, 445</li>
 </ul>In recent days, the number of hospitalized coronavirus patients has topped 550.<h2>Flu is still dangerous</h2>The southern hemisphere saw a very <a href="https://www.npr.org/sections/goatsandsoda/2020/08/26/906323250/from-the-global-south-hints-that-u-s-may-be-spared-flu-on-top-of-covid-19" target="_blank">mild flu season</a>
 this year. That could reflect some combination of the social distancing
 — including the closing of schools and workplaces — and expanded flu 
vaccination efforts spurred by COVID-19.The virus that causes COVID-19 hits more people harder than the flu does, but the flu still kills <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/about/burden/index.html#:~:text=CDC%20estimates%20that%20influenza%20has,61%2C000%20deaths%20annually%20since%202010." target="_blank">tens of thousands</a> of Americans each year — upwards of 50,000 during bad flu seasons — and hospitalizes hundreds of thousands.Symptoms of the two diseases may appear similar, but coronavirus tends to <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/symptoms/flu-vs-covid19.htm" target="_blank">incubate longer</a> and people who contract it appear to be more contagious (at least among adults) and for longer than those who pick up the flu.The <a href="https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/flu/in-depth/flu-shots/art-20048000" target="_blank">vaccine</a>
 doesn’t guarantee you won’t get sick. Rather, it cuts your risk of 
coming down with the flu or getting a bad case of it. And because 
they’re not made with live viruses, you <a href="https://www.cdc.gov/flu/prevent/keyfacts.htm" target="_blank">can’t get the flu from a flu shot</a>.Dana Hawkinson heads infection prevention for the KU Health System and cares for COVID-19 patients.A bad bout of the flu can not only cause lung damage, he said. It can saddle patients with other problems.“We know that you’re at very high risk of getting a secondary bacterial pneumonia,” he said. “Typically that is staph or strep.”The last thing you’d want at that point is to deal with COVID-19, too.“It could be,” he said, “very difficult to recover.”Celia Llopis-Jepsen reports on consumer health and education for the Kansas News Service. You can follow her on Twitter <a href="https://twitter.com/Celia_LJ" target="_blank">@celia_LJ</a> or email her at celia@kcur.org.