Missouri Gaming Commission extends casino closures

(From the Missouri Gaming Commission)

The Missouri Gaming Commission has extended the order for all riverboat gaming casinos to remain closed through 11:59 p.m. Friday, May 15th, 2020.

MGC previously ordered all riverboat gaming casinos in the state to temporarily suspend their casino operations and to close effective midnight March 17, 2020 due to concerns related to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Kansas governor announces plan to reopen state

(From Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly)

After discussion with public health officials and evaluating the state's disease spread, testing capacity and other factors, we have decided to lift the statewide "safer-at-home" order. We will gradually and cautiously move into Phase 1 of "Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas."

In Phase 1 of the plan, the statewide stay-at-home order is lifted on May 4. In its place, mass gatherings statewide will be limited to 10 or fewer. Entities already considered essential functions pursuant to the Kansas Essential Functions Framework can continue to operate.

So what does Phase 1 mean for Kansans?

It means that you can go to restaurants - as long as they adhere to proper public health guidelines and can maintain at least 6 feet between customers. 

It means you can go to the library, and childcare facilities will be open. But please note that under Phase 1, bars and night clubs, fitness centers, hair salons or barber shops and public swimming pools will not open.

Under "Ad Astra: A Plan to Reopen Kansas," county officials are permitted to impose regulations that are more restrictive than the Framework, but cannot be less restrictive.

Counties do not have to submit requests to the state to institute equal or more restrictive standards.

Eleven more COVID-19 deaths reported in Missouri

Eleven COVID-19 deaths were added to Missouri's total during a 24-hour period bringing the state's number to 329, according to statistics released by the Department of Health and Senior Services this afternoon.

Missouri has had 7,562 confirmed coronavirus cases, an increase of 137 during the 24 hours.

Three of the 11 deaths were in St. Louis County, which leads the state with 162. St. Louis has had 57, St. Charles County 28, Kansas City 16, Jackson County 12 and Franklin County 8.







No new cases were shown for area counties, though Joplin had its eighth case confirmed this afternoon.

Jasper County has had 16, Newton County 10, McDonald County 4 and Barton County 0.

Dade County and Lawrence County have had no cases, while Vernon County has had 4 and Barry County 5.

Hutchinson: Gyms, fitness centers can reopen May 4

(From Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson)

Gyms and fitness centers may resume operations on May 4, 2020, under certain guidelines established to protect the health and safety of employees and patrons, Governor Asa Hutchinson announced at his daily press briefing today.

Under these guidelines, gyms and fitness centers must implement precautions such as use of face masks except when exercising, daily temperature checks for employees and patrons, and social distancing of at least 12 feet while exercising.

“I am pleased that Arkansans will be able to resume physical activity at their local gyms,” Governor Hutchinson said. 

“There are still limitations on the use of these facilities, but if carefully observed, I am confident we will be able to return to our normal exercise routines soon. I look forward to resuming my weekly game of pick-up basketball once all restrictions lift, but until then, it’s important that managers, employees, and patrons carefully follow the guidelines as they resume operations.”

Gyms and fitness centers must meet the following criteria to resume operations on May 4:

Screening must be completed on entry for all staff and participants. Those who have any of the following characteristics should not be allowed to enter: 

-Have returned from travel to New York, New Jersey, Connecticut, New Orleans or overseas within the last 14 days;

-Have had a fever of 100.4°F or greater in the past two days;

-Have a cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, or loss of taste or smell;

-Had contact with a person known to be infected with COVID-19 within the previous 14 days;
-Have compromised immune systems and/or have chronic diseases.

Staff should wear a face covering or mask at all times. Patrons should wear a face covering except when actively exercising.

Prohibit the use of pools, spas, showers, saunas, etc. at this time. Locker rooms are to be used only for storage of personal items. Maintain physical distancing while in locker rooms.

Hand sanitizer should be available throughout the facility.

Staff should ensure that all exercise machines or equipment are sanitized after each use (via wipe-down with disposable disinfectant wipes, Lysol or the equivalent).

Maintain proper spacing from others by working out with 12 feet between each person. This may require closing or moving some equipment.

Avoid personal contact at all times, including hand shaking.

Individual training sessions, indoor group fitness classes, and workouts that require a partner must maintain 12 foot spacing between each person at this time.

Find the Arkansas Department of Health directive for reopening gyms, fitness centers, athletic clubs, and weight rooms HERE.

Parson emphasizes COVID-19 housing assistance during briefing

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

During today’s COVID-19 briefing, Governor Parson highlighted housing assistance and resources for Missourians amid the COVID-19 crisis.

Under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, Missouri will receive funding for additional resources to help meet emerging needs, including the Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program and the Emergency Solutions Grant (ESG) program.

Existing emergency CDBG regulations allow for grant payments to providers of items and services such as food, clothing, housing, or utilities on behalf of an individual or family. With this funding under the CARES Act, 15 of Missouri’s largest cities and counties, including the St. Louis and Kansas City metro regions, will receive over $24 million dollars in assistance.

 

Missouri also expects to receive approximately $9.4 million for the ESG program, which will be administered by the Missouri Housing Development Commission. These funds can be used to help unsheltered homeless, sheltered homeless, or those at risk of homelessness. They can also be used for eviction prevention assistance, including rapid rehousing, housing counseling, and rental deposit assistance.

In addition to these grants, there are several other ways Missourians can receive COVID-19 related housing assistance.

Moratoriums and Evictions

Under the CARES Act, a moratorium on foreclosures for all federally-backed mortgages, including those covered by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the Federal Housing Administration, the Department of Veterans Affairs, Fannie Mae, and Freddie Mac was put in place for 60 days starting March 18th.

Under the bill, a borrower with a federally-backed mortgage experiencing a financial hardship due to COVID-19 may also request a forbearance for up to 180 days. The bill also instituted a moratorium on filings for evictions for renters in homes covered by a federally-backed mortgage for 120 days.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP)

The CARES Act provides $900 million in supplemental funding to LIHEAP to assist low-income families in paying their utility bills.

At the state level, Governor Parson’s administration worked with the investor-owned utility companies throughout Missouri to stop disconnects and shut-offs related to COVID-19, ensuring that Missourians would not have disruptions in utility services in the face of economic hardship.

On April 1, the Missouri Supreme Court and several judicial circuits also announced they would suspend or postpone proceedings that include eviction or foreclosure cases until May 15, 2020.

Also during today’s briefing Governor Parson was joined by Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) Commissioner Margie Vandeven, Missouri Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development (DHEWD) Commissioner Zora Mulligan, and Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance (DCI) Chlora Lindley-Myers for updates on their respective departments.

Department of Elementary and Secondary Education In addition to urging school leaders to think of safe ways to honor Missouri’s graduating seniors, DESE also issued guidance on summer school to school leaders last week. Districts and charter schools are working to find the best solution they can for their students, families, and staff members.

DESE is also preparing to distribute millions of dollars from the CARES Act to local schools in the coming weeks.

Today, DESE submitted the final U.S. Department of Education paperwork necessary to receive the $208 million Missouri is getting from the Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Fund. These funds will allow school leaders to address remote teaching and learning challenges and other important educational needs resulting from COVID-19.

Missouri schools will also receive $117 million from the U.S. Department of Agriculture to reimburse schools for meals served during these extended closures. More than 1.3 million meals have been served by schools across Missouri.

Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development

DHEWD continues to work with Governor Parson and DESE to plan the distribution of federal funds through the CARES Act. The CARES Act provides approximately $30 billion to the US Department of Education (USDE) to disperse across several funds. Two of these provide funds related to higher education – the Higher Education Emergency Education Relief Fund (HERF) and the Governor’s Emergency Education Relief (GEER) Fund.

HERF provides money institutions can use for COVID-19 relief. These funds flow directly from the U.S. Department of Education (USDE) to schools and must be used for costs that are related to significant changes to the delivery of instruction due to COVID-19. Missouri will also receive $54.6 million through GEER. These funds will allow the state to provide emergency support for K-12 schools and/or higher education institutions significantly impacted by COVID-19.

DHEWD has also issued temporary guidance to students and counselors regarding state financial aid program eligibility due to school closures and changes in ACT test dates. This guidance addresses both A+ and Bright Flight scholarships.

From a workforce development standpoint, DHEWD is working with other state agencies and private partners to ensure Missouri has the workforce it needs to respond to COVID-19, including the training of health care workers at alternate care sites and recruitment of contact tracers to help track and limit exposure to COVID-19.

Missouri Job Centers and local workforce development boards are working to help Missourians skill up and get back to work. Job Centers offer reemployment services to those laid off due to COVID-19 and training assistance to those who qualify. These services include resume and interview preparation as well as assistance with job searching.

Missouri Department of Commerce and Insurance

Throughout the COVID-19 crisis, DCI has worked closely with the Governor’s Office and others in state government to remove regulatory barriers allowing more individuals to work in Missouri and help address the health and welfare of Missourians.

The Department has waived a historic 114 statutes or regulations for the 41 regulatory Boards in its Professional Registration Division alone. DCI has also filed or is in the process of filing five emergency rules related to COVID-19. These waivers have allowed the state to broaden the scope and number of healthcare workers who can provide services in Missouri.

Additionally, DCI issued a bulletin enabling the issuance of temporary resident insurer producer licenses for the various lines of insurance business. These licenses assisted those looking for work in the industry but who were unable to complete the testing requirement as testing centers were closed due to stay at home and social distancing orders. To date, there have been over 80 of these temporary licenses issued in Missouri.

DCI has also issued several bulletins asking insurance carriers operating in Missouri to waive cost sharing for COVID-19 related testing, office visits, urgent care visits, and emergency room visits and has encouraged the use of telehealth services to render care while still maintaining social distancing.

Eighth COVID-19 case confirmed in Joplin

(From the Joplin Health Department)

The Joplin Health Department today announces the eighth positive case of COVID-19 in an adult within the city of Joplin. The individual resides in Joplin within Jasper County. (Note: this case will be counted under Joplin on the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services website.)

To protect the patient’s right to privacy, identifying information will not be provided.

As part of the regular practice of disease investigation, the Health Department will notify people who have had contact with the patient. This individual has not traveled recently. 

 

The Joplin Health Department staff are working with the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to determine any close contacts of this individual who were possibly exposed. If exposed, health officials will provide guidance to these individuals and monitor them closely for the development of symptoms.

While COVID-19 is spread from person to person, more than 80% of the patients who develop it will only become mildly ill. The concern is for patients with underlying medical conditions and the elderly, who are more likely to need hospital-level supportive care.

Primary symptoms to be aware of include:

100.4 fever or higher - 90% will have fever.

Dry cough - 70% will have a dry cough.

Shortness of breath – for those who become more acutely ill.




Individuals experiencing these symptoms should contact their medical provider before traveling to their office. The public is reminded that a drive-through test site, supported by eTrueNorth and Walmart, is also a possible testing site for persons with these symptoms. Anyone seeking a test should go to www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com to be screened and, if approved, schedule a time to visit the drive-through testing site. The number for the screening call center is 800-635-8611.

Guidance on considerations for COVID-19, as well as recommendations on other health practices if going out for essential activities can be found at www.joplinmo.org/coronavirus or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s website at https://www.cdc.gov/ .

Additional Info...

Springfield issues road to COVID-19 recovery rules to begin May 4

(From the City of Springfield)

Mayor Ken McClure and the Greene County Commission issued separate but similar Road to Recovery orders to provide businesses and other organizations with guidance to safely resume operations. The City’s order goes into effect at midnight, Monday, May 4 and expires at 11:59 p.m., May 31, 2020.

View the City’s order.

The orders are considered “Phase I” in a series of gradual phases reopening the economy in a safe and measured way.

The current Stay-at-Home orders, which were first put in place in late March to help stop the spread of the novel coronavirus known as COVID-19, expire at 11:59 p.m. May 3.

The intent of the Road to Recovery orders is to open more things up to include those previously referred to as non-essential businesses. The Road to Recovery orders still require businesses and organizations to adhere as much as possible to the social distancing and cleaning guidelines recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, including, but not limited to when customers are standing in line or when individuals, including employees, are using shared indoor or outdoor spaces.

Businesses providing personal care services (hair and nail stylists, estheticians, massage therapists, etc.) must require employees to wear a mask while providing services for which physical distancing is not possible and must require customers, to the extent possible while receiving the service, to wear a mask or other facial cover. Personal care service businesses must also limit the number of all persons, including but not limited to employees, vendors, and customers according to the occupancy formula listed below.

All other previously deemed non-essential businesses and any business engaged in retail sales or personal care services to the public must limit the number of customers in any particular business or retail location at any one time to a maximum of:

The result of the total square feet of that part of the building devoted to the subject business divided by 30 times 25% for locations with a square footage less than 10,000 square feet = Maximum number of people allowed.

Example: 2,500 total square feet / 30 X .25 = 20 people.

Businesses with a square footage of 10,000 square feet or more should divide the square feet of that part of the building devoted to the subject business by 30 times 10% = Maximum number of people allowed.

For dining establishments that offer indoor or outdoor seating, the maximum number of customers allowed in any particular indoor or outdoor location is determined by dividing the square footage of the indoor or outdoor dining area by 30 X .25.

No businesses may provide any business or non-business activity that enhances the risk of the spread of a communicable disease by bringing groups of people together, including but not limited to:

-Entertainment, movies, concerts and other live performances, dancing, billiards and pool;

-Exhibitions and museums;

-Contact sports, fitness or other classes, playgrounds;

-Religious services except as permitted below;

-Conferences and seminars;

-Bars, nightclubs and brewery taprooms.

Churches, synagogues, mosques, temples, and other similar religious facilities of any faith (“religious facilities”) may conduct "drive-in" services, at which participants gather in their vehicles and participate in the service together by remote means provided that:

-Motor vehicles are parked in every other parking spot or at least 9 feet apart.

-Participants do not interact physically with clergy, staff, or participants in other vehicles.

-No one exits a vehicle at any time while at the service.

-Participants, clergy and staff remain at least 6 feet apart from one another at all times, except participants that are part of the same household.

-Restrooms are closed except for emergencies.

Child care programs, including day camps which are primarily a child care program provided they comply with the requirements in this subsection. Child care programs must follow the social distancing provisions; must be carried out in stable groups, preferably with 10 or fewer (“stable” means that the same 10 or fewer children are in the same group each day); children must not change from one group to another; and if more than one group of children is cared for at one facility, each group must be in a separate room. Groups must not mix with each other; and child care providers must remain solely with one group of children.

According to the orders, public gatherings of more than 15 people are prohibited. Daily operations of a business are not considered a public gathering, unless the main outcome of their activities brings people together in a common area for an extended period of time. View additional guidelines at springfieldmo.gov/coronavirusresponse.

As of this morning, Greene County has reported 96 total cases of COVID-19; 17 of which are active cases. Eight have died. 

During the six weeks that residents have been asked to stay at home unless activity is essential, Greene County public health officials have ramped up testing significantly, identified and quarantined those who came in contact with positive cases, or isolated confirmed positive cases. 

Local hospitals have scaled operations by securing additional personal protective equipment (PPE), expanding bed and ventilator capacity. In total, 442 people have been under the watchful eye of local public health investigators at any one given time, as the battle against the new virus continues. This strategy is called contact tracing and has been critical in helping to contain the virus.

“A stepwise approach to reopening the community must continue to occur to balance public health and our community’s economic and workforce needs,” said Springfield-Greene County Health Director Clay Goddard. “We will continue to conduct close monitoring during the recovery phase to inform steps forward or backward.”

The timing of resuming full operations is key, said Mayor McClure.

“The measured approach we are taking to step out of the Stay-at-Home orders does more than continue to stop the spread of the disease. It does so, while allowing us to assess the impact of each step, in terms of case rate, hospital capacity and our community’s ability to have solid data from more extensive testing. The problem with opening everything up when things start to seem better is that we can go backward. I have faith in the Springfield-Greene County Health Department and in our community. We will continue to work through this together,” said Mayor McClure.

The Health Department launched an online dashboard that allows the public to view regional data related to COVID-19. As our community moves toward recovery, Goddard says it will be important that we know how the disease is moving through our population. This dashboard will inform community leaders and the public on the important metrics that will inform decision-making going forward.

This dashboard covers five areas, including:

-detailed case information, including total and daily cases based on a person’s onset of symptoms and active, deceased and resolved cases.

-hospital capability, which is based on hospital staffing, supplies and space available to respond to COVID-19.

-public health capability, which is based on the capability to conduct epidemiological interviews and contact tracing, and risk pertaining to unmitigated community exposure for COVID-19.

-testing capability, which measures the estimated community testing capability for COVID-19. The index is based on the available testing and result turnaround time.

-regional data information, which measures the estimated public health capability and testing capability for surrounding counties.

It can be accessed at http://health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus and will be updated throughout the week.

While government facilities are exempt from the new orders, most City and County facilities remain closed to the public with services available virtually. Visit http://www.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirusresponse for more information.

Eight more COVID-19 deaths recorded in Oklahoma; death toll stands at 222

(From the Oklahoma State Department of Health)

As of this advisory, there are 3,618 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma. 

There are eight additional deaths; five of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the others died between April 23-April 28.

-One in Oklahoma County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

-Two in Delaware County, both females in the 65 and older age group. 

-Two in McClain County, both females in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Grady County, a male in the 50-64 age group.

-One in Mayes County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Wagoner County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

There are 222 total deaths in the state.

A list of COVID-19 testing sites in the state can be found here.
For more information, visit coronavirus.health.ok.gov.

Watch live- Arkansas Governor's COVID-19 update at 1:30 p.m.

Highway Patrol to resume all written driving tests Monday

(From the Missouri State Highway Patrol)

Colonel Eric T. Olson, superintendent of the Missouri State Highway Patrol, informs the public effective May 4, 2020, driver testing services will expand to include:
· written testing for all classes of licenses
· commercial driver license skills testing (pre-trip, basic, and road)

However, non-CDL road testing is not included in this phase of service reinstatement.

Those requiring the skills test for a CDL should note special priority is being given to applicants who have already passed a portion of the CDL skills test, applicants who had a CDL appointment scheduled prior to the suspension of testing last month, school bus operators over the age of 70 requiring annual testing, and applicants with other essential needs.

When CDL applicants schedule an appointment, an examiner will review a COVID-19 acknowledgment form, and advise the applicant to wear a face covering during testing and arrive in a sanitized vehicle.

Applicants should wear face coverings while in driver examination facilities and adhere to social distancing guidelines. Face coverings will be removed briefly when the applicant’s photo is taken during the licensing process.

The Patrol’s website will be updated with a list of designated drivers testing locations, days of service, hours of operation and phone numbers prior to May 4.

Longtime Carl Junction R-1 Board member honored at final meeting

(From the Carl Junction R-1 School District)

Last week, the Carl Junction Board of Education said goodbye to longtime member Claudia Cox during her last meeting.

After 18 years, Cox decided not to run for re-election. 

Though the meeting was held through the Zoom platform, Cox was at the Administrative Offices for the meeting. 

Superintendent Dr. Phillip Cook presented her with a gift from the Board of Education and the school district - a framed copy of her original sworn statement as a board member and the original copy of her father's (Perry Thomas) statement when he was sworn into service on the R-1 board in 1975.

Cox and her father served a combined 45 years on the Carl Junction Board of Education. Thank you 

to Claudia and the Thomas Family for all that you have done to support our students and staff for 45 years!!

Webb City Mayor: We'll be open for business May 4

In a message to the community today, Webb City Mayor Lynn Ragsdale delivered the message residents have been waiting to hear.

"We will be open for business May 4," Ragsdale said.

The city will follow Gov. Mike Parson's plan to reopen in phases and not add anything else, Ragsdale said.

"We expect our businesses and residents to use common courtesy in practicing good hygiene and distancing habits."

Ragsdale addressed criticism that closing the city was not necessary since there have been such a relatively small number of COVID-19 cases.

"We didn' lower the curve, because we never had a curve," the mayor said. "We got ahead of the curve which is a better scenario.

The accompanying video also includes information from City Manager Carl Francis and Webb City R-7 Superintendent Tony Rossetti.

Webb City R-7 District releases plans for graduation

Special City Council meeting- This is the plan to reopen Joplin

(UPDATE: The Joplin City Council approved the reopening plan, but with numerous changes. More information to come.) 

Joplin City Council began discussing this COVID-19 response and recovery plan tonight during a special meeting that began at 6 p.m.

City of Joplin Plan for Response and Recovery

Introduction

This framework is built upon the guidance outlined in National Coronavirus Response:

A road map to reopening by the American Enterprise Institute.

Within the plan, there are four phases:

• Phase 1: Slow the Spread

• Phase 2: Reopen, State by State [Community by Community] a.k.a. Recovery

• Phase 3: Establish Protection Then Lift All Restrictions

• Phase 4: Rebuild Our Readiness for the Next Pandemic

Although we are currently in Phase 1 of our COVID-19 response, we should be looking to take steps to resume normal life---while preventing steps backward. This planning document will focus on the current state of our community as well as look forward to how we move into Phase 2.








Phase 1:

Slow the Spread

Most counties within Southwest Missouri now have confirmed cases of COVID-19. Additionally, there are cases in nearby Southeast Kansas, Northeast Oklahoma and Northwest Arkansas. Within Phase 1, there are 8 recommended components:

1. Maintain Physical Distancing Community leaders in Joplin have taken a proactive role in adopting incremental social distancing ordinances culminating in the community stay at home order.

Parson highlights Missouri's COVID-19 testing capacity during briefing

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

As Missouri prepares to reopen economic and social activity on May 4, Governor Mike Parson today highlighted the state’s COVID-19 testing capacity.

Expanding testing capacity is one of the four essential pillars of the state’s “Show Me Strong Recovery” Plan:

-Expand testing capacity and volume in the state

-Expand reserves of PPE by opening public and private supply chains 

-Continue to monitor and, if necessary, expand hospital and health care system capacity

-Improve ability to predict potential outbreaks using Missouri's public health data

“One of the important pillars of our recovery plan is testing capacity,” Governor Parson said. “Between the state health lab and at least 15 private labs and participating health care institutions, approximately 50,000 tests could be performed each week.”

Testing capacity in Missouri continues to increase. Between the Missouri State Public Health Laboratory and at least 15 private national and in-state laboratories and participating health care institutions, approximately 50,000 tests could be performed in Missouri each week if needed.

Due to this increased access to testing, the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) last week expanded its testing criteria to allow more groups of people to be tested by the state laboratory. Rapid point-of-care testing devices from Abbott have also been deployed throughout Missouri.

Along with greater testing capacity, there is also greater access to testing for patients throughout Missouri. There are now more than 125 sample collection sites located throughout the state, and mobile outreach is happening in some areas to reach populations that may be unable to get to a testing site.

Missouri has also shifted to an aggressive “box-in” approach with testing. This strategy will allow positive patients to be identified and isolated as soon as possible to prevent the virus from spreading further in the community.

Additionally, the state is now utilizing “community sampling” in specific counties, which involves testing both symptomatic and asymptomatic people to potentially identify individuals who unknowingly have COVID-19 and isolate them before they spread the virus.

Also during today’s briefing, Governor Parson was joined by Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DOLIR) Director Anna Hui, Missouri Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Director Carol Comer, and Missouri Department of Mental Health (DMH) Director Mark Stringer for updates on their respective departments. 

Department of Labor and Industrial Relations

Over the past few weeks, DOLIR has processed hundreds of thousand of initial unemployment claims and made hundreds of millions of dollar of payments to eligible claimants.

Last week, Missouri was one of 10 states that implemented the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program (PUA) to take claims. DOLIR has already processed and paid thousands of eligible claimants a PUA weekly benefit and the $600 federal supplement.

Additionally, the Department has trained over 100 additional staff from DOLIR and other state agencies, as well as third party vendor staff, to support the unemployment program. DOLIR is preparing to hire 50 - 100 more temporary staff for additional support.

DOLIR has added an online Unemployment Virtual Assistant to answer incoming questions about various unemployment benefit programs. More than 90 percent of Missourians have been able to file claims online through the UInteract system, and DOLIR continues to implement additional options to better assist claimants with their questions.

Department of Natural Resources

Director Comer announced the first phase in resuming normal operations at Missouri State Parks, a division of DNR.

While the vast majority of Missouri state parks and historic sites have remained open for day use, Missouri State Parks has implemented a number of measures designed to maintain required social distancing and protect visitors and team members.

Based on current conditions, Missouri State Parks is implementing the following measures in phase one of the return to normal operations:

On May 4, concession-operated lodging, dining, marina, and retail operations will begin reopening at the discretion of the individual concessionaires and following Governor Parson’s recommended guidelines.

On May 11, Castlewood State Park, Elephant Rocks State Park, Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site and State Park, and Weston Bend State Park will reopen for day use only.

On May 18, the off-road-vehicle riding area at St. Joe State Park will reopen and will require daily permits to be purchased online. Quantities may be limited to manage capacity. 

 
Park campgrounds and park-run lodging will remain closed through May 18. Missouri State Parks continues to evaluate public-health data, applicable social-distancing guidelines, and operational requirements to determine when it would be appropriate to resume these operations.

Visitor centers, park offices, tours, programs, group camps, enclosed shelters, playgrounds, pools, and beaches will remain closed as Missouri State Parks evaluates the implementation of phase one. 

Events, including third-party events planned in the month of May, may be postponed or cancelled.

Department of Mental Health

The state’s community mental health centers and substance use treatment providers serve over 130,000 people annually. When the COVID-19 crisis started, the entire community system pivoted in a matter of days to a virtual telehealth model of care to continue helping these individuals and their families.

In addition to caring for their own patients and clients, these providers are also providing mental health services to front line workers in other parts of the health care system through virtual services and special phone lines.

For Missourians struggling to cope with the COVID-19 pandemic, the federal Disaster Distress Helpline (800-985-5990) is an important resource. It is staffed with mental health professionals who can talk with you and, if you need more help than they can provide, connect you with services in Missouri. These services are free and completely confidential.

Additionally, the DMH website has a list of other resources to help individuals and families cope with the strains of COVID-19.

Hutchinson: Limited dine-in restaurant service to begin in Arkansas May 11

(From Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson)

Restaurants in Arkansas may resume limited dine-in service on May 11 under Phase 1 guidelines that require daily health screening of staff, use of face masks and gloves, and strict social distancing, Governor Hutchinson announced at his daily press briefing today.

“Based on current data that shows we have slowed the spread of COVID-19, we have decided it is safe to resume dine-in restaurant service with some common-sense limits,” Governor Hutchinson said. “This is a significant but cautious step on the path back to normalcy. We will monitor the success of this step, and move to Phase 2 as quickly as we safely can.”

The restrictions on dine-in service under this directive include:

Phase 1

-Restaurants must limit number of customers to one-third of total capacity.

-Tables must be ten feet apart so that diners will be seated six feet away from diners at other tables.

-Each employee who directly interacts with patrons must wear a face mask that completely covers nose and mouth. Kitchen staff and others are encouraged to wear a mask.

-Each employee must wear gloves. Gloves should be changed between each customer, customer group, or task.

-Management must conduct a daily health screening of all employees before they enter the restaurant. 

-An employee with a cough, sore throat, fever, or shortness of breath must not enter the restaurant.

-Patrons must wear a face covering until the food or drink is served.

-Salad bars, buffets, and other self-serve features will remain closed.

-Groups must be 10 or fewer customers.

-Tables, chairs, salt/pepper shakers, condiment containers, and napkin holders will be cleaned and disinfected after each customer.

-Bars and entertainment operations (such as live music, in-seat gaming devices, or arcades) are prohibited.

-Normal service of alcohol within the restaurant seating area is allowed.

-Restrooms should be disinfected frequently.

-Service may be declined to patrons not wearing masks.

These Phase 1 restrictions will remain in place until Secretary of Health Dr. Nate Smith determines that they may be relaxed or discontinued.

Blunt: Missouri small businesses able to apply for Paycheck Protection Program

(From Sen. Roy Blunt, R-MO)

As of this week, Missouri small businesses are once again able to apply for the Paycheck Protection Program.

The first round of funding for this vital program passed the Senate unanimously as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act. 

The Paycheck Protection Program provides up to eight weeks of cash-flow assistance through 100% federally guaranteed loans to small business employers to help maintain their payroll during this public health crisis.

In the first few weeks of this program, 15 million jobs and counting were saved across the country – and it soon became clear that additional resources would be needed to help more small businesses and the millions of Americans they employ.

Last week, Congress passed the Paycheck Protection Program and Health Care Enhancement Act. This latest coronavirus bill included $320 billion to replenish funding for the program.

I was honored to be in the Oval Office when President Trump signed this bill into law, bringing much-needed relief to the small businesses men and women who drive our economy.

Over 99% of small businesses in Missouri are small businesses.

Through this program, Missouri small businesses are able to apply for loans to be used for payroll, rent, and utilities. You can find your local lender and more details here.

 

Seven added to Oklahoma COVID-19 death total, Stitt calls for all residents who want tests to be tested

(From the Oklahoma State Department of Health)

As of this advisory, there are 3,473 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma.

There are seven additional deaths; three of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the others died between April 16-April 26.

Two in Oklahoma County, a male in the 65 and older age group and a male in the 36-49 age group.

-One in Tulsa County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Garvin County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Kay County, a female in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Muskogee County, a male in the 65 and older age group.

-One in Washington County, a male in the 50-64 age group.

There are 214 total deaths in the state.

On Tuesday, Governor Kevin Stitt called for all COVID testing locations and providers to expand access to all Oklahomans who desire to be tested, even without demonstrating symptoms. 

Drive-thru COVID-19 testing is now available at the Oklahoma Health Center in coordination with the University of Oklahoma. If you are experiencing symptoms, call 405-271-7774 to make an appointment. More information can be found here.

A list of COVID-19 testing sites in the state can be found here.

For more information, visit coronavirus.health.ok.gov.

Missouri State Parks announces phase one in resuming normal operations

(From Missouri State Parks)

Missouri State Parks, a division of the Department of Natural Resources, today announced phase one of a phased approach to resuming normal operations.

While the vast majority of Missouri state parks and historic sites have remained open for day use, Missouri State Parks has implemented a number of measures designed to maintain required social distancing and protect visitors and team members.

Based on current conditions, Missouri State Parks is implementing the following measures in phase one of the return to normal operations:

On May 4, concession-operated lodging, dining, marina and retail operations will begin reopening at the discretion of the individual concessionaires and following Governor Parson’s recommended guidelines.

On May 11, Castlewood State Park, Elephant Rocks State Park, Watkins Woolen Mill State Historic Site and State Park and Weston Bend State Park will reopen for day use only.

On May 18, the off-road-vehicle riding area at St. Joe State Park will reopen and will require daily permits to be purchased online; quantities may be limited to manage capacity. 

 
Park campgrounds and park-run lodging will remain closed through May 18. Missouri State Parks continues to evaluate public-health data, applicable social-distancing guidelines and operational requirements to determine when it would be appropriate to resume these operations.

Visitor centers, park offices, tours, programs, group camps, enclosed shelters, playgrounds, pools and beaches will remain closed as Missouri State Parks evaluates the implementation of phase one. Events, including third-party events planned in the month of May, may be postponed or cancelled.

“Never has access to our state parks been more important than during this period of COVID-19 response,” said Carol Comer, director of the Department of Natural Resources. “Missouri State Parks is committed to providing a safe and healthy environment for our visitors, volunteers and staff, and we are working toward resumption of additional services as soon as we can do so responsibly.”

“Missouri State Parks is experiencing record crowds as people take advantage of the outdoor opportunities we have to offer,” said Mike Sutherland, director of the department's Division of State Parks. “We ask for everyone’s patience and cooperation as we implement measures to minimize congestion and maintain social distancing at our facilities.”

Visitors are encouraged to check mostateparks.com for individual park advisory updates and the latest actions in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Crowds and visitation will be monitored closely in order to prevent overcrowding. If a park is nearing capacity, gates or parking lots may close temporarily.

All visitors must remain diligent and enjoy the outdoors responsibly by following the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and Governor Parson:

-Keep a minimum distance of six feet between you and others.

-Avoid crowded areas and groups of people.

-Stay close-to-home and travel with only those from your household.

-Wash your hands often.

-Come prepared and carry hand sanitizers, soaps, wipes and water.

-Share the trail and warn other trail users of your presence as you pass.

-Avoid touching your face.

-Avoid handshakes and hugs.

-Cover your mouth and nose with your elbow when you cough or sneeze.

-Pack out what you pack in.

-Be kind and considerate of others.

-Most importantly, stay home if you are sick.

The Department of Natural Resources and Missouri State Parks team is closely monitoring the progression of COVID-19 and its effects in Missouri. While safety, outdoor recreation and service to our visitors are all very important to us, the safety of our guests and team members is our top priority.

For the latest actions by Missouri State Parks in response to COVID-19, visit mostateparks.com/response. Missourians are encouraged to review COVID-19 information provided by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services.

Missouri COVID-19 death toll at 318, with four added today, no new cases reported locally

Four COVID-19 deaths and 122 cases were added to Missouri's total over the last 24 hours, according to statistics released this afternoon by the Department of Health and Senior Services.

Missouri has had 318 deaths and 7,425 cases.

Two of the deaths were recorded in Jackson County, bringing the total of 11.







St. Louis County has had 159 deaths, followed by St. Louis with 56, including one added today, St. Charles County 28, Kansas City 16 and Greene County seven.

No new cases were reported in this area with Jasper County holding steady at 16, Newton County 10, McDonald County four and Barton County none.

New COVID-19 drive-through testing site to open in Joplin Thursday- Here's what you need to know

(From the City of Joplin)

At a time when COVID-19 testing is critical to the pandemic response, we want you to know there is a drive-through testing site opening on April 30 available to anyone who may be exhibiting symptoms of the virus. 

In addition, the site is available to all health care workers and first responders, whether or not they are exhibiting symptoms. 

We know they are on the front lines of this pandemic and may be exposed to COVID-19 while keeping our communities healthy and safe. We are grateful and humbled by their efforts during this unprecedented time.

Please find information below regarding the testing site and how to schedule an appointment.

What:

A drive-through COVID-19 testing site located at the Joplin Athletic Complex, 3301 W. 1st Street, Joplin, MO 64801 will open on Thursday, April 30, to all healthcare providers and first responders and anyone who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19, at no cost to the individual.

All appointments will be drive-through observed, self-collection in the Athletic Complex parking lot.

To be tested, individuals must schedule an appointment through eTrueNorth at www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com, which will screen individuals to ensure they meet CDC eligibility for testing.

If individuals have difficulty scheduling an appointment, they can call 800-635-8611. The testing site is supported by Walmart, eTrueNorth and state and local officials.

Who:

All first responders and healthcare providers and anyone who is exhibiting symptoms of COVID-19.
For more information on testing eligibility, please see CDC guidelines: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/downloads/priority-testing-patients.pdf.

When:

The drive-through testing site will open on April 30, 2020 and will be open daily from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., weather permitting.

Please arrive no more than 10 minutes before your appointment time.







Where:

You must first qualify for COVID-19 screening and schedule an appointment, starting April 29, at: www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com
Joplin Athletic Complex, 3301 W. 1st Street, Joplin, MO 64801
PLEASE NOTE: Testing is not available inside any Walmart store.

What to bring/things to note:

The testing site will require an appointment through eTrueNorth’s online site (www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com). You will receive an appointment confirmation that you will need to have on hand when you arrive on-site.

In addition, please make sure to bring your insurance card and valid photo ID for proof of identity.
Those being tested will need to stay in their cars for verification of eligibility criteria, ID check and sample self-collection. For the safety of all those on-site, the test site is not able to service those who walk up.

Individuals being tested will perform a self-administered nasal swab in their car with a healthcare provider observing them. Directions will be provided in the confirmation email after scheduling the appointment and on-site.

It’s important to take care of yourself and monitor your symptoms closely. If your symptoms do not improve or you develop new or worsening symptoms, seek medical attention right away. Do not wait to receive your results.

Results:

Individuals will be able to access their results on www.DoINeedaCOVID19test.com. They will receive a text and/or email notification when their COVID-19 test results are available.

Average turnaround time is approximately 24 to 48 hours from the day of collection.

While individuals who are tested are awaiting results, please follow CDC guidelines and take steps to help prevent the disease from spreading to people in your home and community.
Individuals experiencing symptoms should self-isolate while waiting.

If you have any questions regarding your scheduled appointment, please call 800-635-8611.

Watch live: Arkansas Governor's COVID-19 briefing at 1:30 p.m.

Outback Steakhouse reduction in hours to affect 71 Joplin employees

Outback Steakhouse officials say they have not fired any employees and have no plans to do so, but they are drastically reducing the hours of all of their employees, including the 71 at their restaurant at 3110 E. 36th Street in Joplin.

The announcement was made in a WARN Act filing with the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development posted today on the department's website.








The filing was made because company officials felt "the sudden and unexpected reduction in hours could constitute a layoff within the meaning of the Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act and related state laws if it continues.

The affected employees were to be notified by e-mail or mail this week, according to the notice.

The company is doing the same thing nationwide, including at its Springfield restaurant at 2760 S. Glenstone Avenue. Eighty workers will be affected at that facility.

Leggett & Platt announces third round of layoffs

Leggett & Platt has laid off 83 more Carthage employees, according to WARN Act notice posted this morning on the Department of Higher Education and Workforce development site.

The layoffs are at the Wire Mill at 1225 Central, according to the notice.

"These layoffs commenced on April 9, 2020. (They) will continue indefinitely, but are intended to be temporary and last less than six months."







Company officials say the action was taken "because of COVID-19 pandemic, the World Health's Organization's pandemic declaration on March 11, the President's declaration of a national emergency on March 13 and other related governmental announcements and actions," the notice says, using the same exact wording as was used during the earlier layoffs of 422 and 215 employees.

With the three rounds of layoffs, Leggett & Platt, Carthage's biggest employer, has now placed 720 employees on unpaid leave.

Five days after Turner Report posts story, Globe runs Leggett & Platt layoff at the top of page one

I know it sounds contradictory, but at the same time I am encouraging you to support newspapers in general and the Joplin Globe in particular, but I am offering a mild criticism of our area's leading newspaper.

At the top of page one in today's Globe is the news that Leggett & Platt, one of our area's leading employers, has laid off another 215 employees in Carthage, following an earlier reduction of 422.

It is an important story and certainly deserves the top billing it received.

It would have been better if the story had run earlier.

The article, which is written by Globe Editor Andy Ostmeyer, was posted on the Globe website Tuesday and was sent out as a "breaking news" e-mail.

No problem, except that the same story, using the same source, the company's WARN Act filing with the Department of Higher Education and Workforce Development, was published five days ago on the Turner Report.

And it was not breaking news when I published it.

Though I do check the WARN Act listings on a regular basis and done so more often during the pandemic, I spotted the story in the Springfield News-Leader, then retrieved the filing from the state website and published my post, adding information from my post about the earlier layoffs.

A question for the Globe- Was someone asleep at the switch?

Joplin Health Department collecting cloth masks for residents, staff at residential care, assisted care facilities

(From the Joplin Health Department)

The Joplin Health Department is collecting donations of cloth face masks to be distributed to the residents and staff of long-term care, residential care, and assisted care facilities throughout the City of Joplin.

Donations can be left in the top floor entryway during regular business hours (Mon-Fri: 8:00 am to 5:00 pm) until May 29th. All donations are greatly appreciated.

For information from the CDC on making cloth face masks, please visit the following link: https://www.cdc.gov/…/prevent…/diy-cloth-face-coverings.html

Missouri COVID-19 death toll at 314 after 26 more added to list

The death toll for the state of Missouri from COVID-19 increased to 314 today as 26 deaths were added over a 24-hour period, according to statistics released this afternoon by the Department of Health and Senior Services.

Twenty-two of the 26 deaths were in St. Louis County, which has recorded 159, followed by 55 in St. Louis, 28 in St. Charles County, 16 in Kansas City, nine in Jackson County and seven in Greene County.







Missouri has had 7,303 confirmed coronavirus cases, with 2,958 from St. Louis County and 1,054 from St. Louis.

In this area, no new cases were reported with Jasper County holding steady at 16, Newton County 10, the City of Joplin 7, McDonald County 4 and none in Barton County.