Sunday, May 31, 2020

Thank you, mainstream media

While thoughts and prayers are with the protesters whose legitimate grievances are being overshadowed by the actions of a small percentage and with members of law enforcement, who are dealing with a nightmarish situation for which no amount of training could have prepared them, the work of another group of people who have risked their health and safety to make sure that the public gets the most accurate possible information about the horrors that have befallen this country over the past several days should be noted.

I have grown so irritated over the past few years with the attacks on the so-called mainstream media and the accusations of "fake news," which are most often leveled by officials and alternate media sources who have been social distancing from the truth since the day they were born.










Whatever they pay these reporters who are on the ground covering these protests is not nearly enough.

Armed only with cameras, microphones, notebooks and pens, they have put their safety and perhaps even their lives at risk because they share a belief that is not shared by many of our elected leaders and their most devoted followers, a belief that the First Amendment and the public's right to know are the hallmarks of a free society.

Over the past few days, we have seen reporters dodging rocks and bottles thrown at them by protesters as well as tear gas and rubber bullets aimed at them by law enforcement.

A few seconds ago, NBC reporter Garrett Haake was hit by something, but he is continuing to report.
And they keep going back, not because they are trying to make some kind of self-serving political statements, such as those used against them by politicians who not only claim "fake news" whenever their hands have been caught taking up residence in the cookie jar, but also have encouraged their followers to verbally and occasionally physically attack people who are trying to make a living. 

These reporters are men and women whose work ethic and moral sensibilities, unlike those of the people who attack them, are closely akin to yours and mine.

Their job is not to tell us what we want to know, but to tell us the truth.










Some of you who read these words will find that hard to believe. After all, it is so much easier to believe people who are willing to fan the flames of destruction because it will help them remain in office or to believe TV and radio talk show hosts whose stock in trade is to demonize those who are different and claim "those people" are out to steal your money and take your women. These talk show hosts write books, make speeches and build fortunes by capitalizing on our fears.

It is far easier to believe social media postings that originate in Russia than old fashioned shoe leather reporting from people who are trained journalists.

The difference- the Russian bots and the talk show hosts tell us what we want to believe.

Reporters tell us the truth.

Do they always get it right? Of course not.

When they make mistakes, they make corrections. What journalists seek, as famed Watergate reporter Carl Bernstein frequently says, "is the best possible version of the truth."

That is what the reporters who are covering the protests and riots are doing, sometimes at great personal risk.

That is what reporters have always done.

They deserve our respect and they deserve our appreciation.

(Photo: Free lance reporter Linda Tirado was blinded in one eye after she was struck by a rubber bullet in Minneapolis.)


Kay Hively: Home schooling during pandemic a learning experience for children and parents

Many parents have turned to teaching as schools across the country have been forced to close. As a result, a number of parents have learned that teaching is no small task.

Like teachers, parents love the children and hope to go a good job. They love watching as the children grow and learn. Like teachers, parents put all they have in the job. They rely on a tons of things for help. Things like textbooks, the computer, memories of their own schooling, and their own experiences. Most schools provide much help with lesson plans and other classroom materials.

Teaching two, or three, or even four children is very different from teaching 30 or more. Less preparation time is needed, less time needed for grading papers and reading assignments, and less time for one-on-one instruction all make home teaching easier.










All these things mean less time “teaching” and “learning,” time which makes more time for everyone to pursue other hobbies or jobs.

But, I have learned that many parents are having a difficult time working as their children’s teacher. Many of the classroom problems are no different than they were in regular school. Children who don’t like school, resent being there, and act up in the classroom, are much the same when learning at home.

Some parents who had problems with a teacher and schools in general still carry something of an attitude in their home schooling efforts. That seems to affect the home classroom, Although I heard about a mother, who after two weeks of home schooling said, “It’s NOT the teacher.”

Hopefully home schooling teachers and students will, over all, have a good experience with it. This is a time for these teachers and students to get some very special learning—both book and practical. If so, all are very lucky.

I know one parent who was homeschooling her two son and doing her job at home as well. She put a lot of effort into both. She also took time for a different kind of learning. I heard she got a couple of employment applications from her place of work and had the boys filling them out. A good skill to learn.

I understand the boys also got a lesson in making waffles for their own breakfast…cooking, another good skill. Some understanding of math make better waffles.

So hats off to the “new” teachers who have stepped up. May these parents and their children remember these precious weeks as special times which occurred during a very bad time.

And just between you and me, I think they will.

(Kay Hively is a historian, author and former editor, reporter and columnist for the Neosho Daily News and Neosho Post.)

Go Fund Me account set up for Webb City police officer struck by drunk driver

A Go Fund Me account has been established to defray expenses for the family of Webb City Police Department Sgt. Brian Ward, who was injured, along with his two-year-old son Knox, when they were struck by an alleged drunk driver while vacationing in Florida.

The account, established by Ward's co-worker Joe Moore, set a goal of $2,000 and has already reached $1,055.

Donate Here

No COVID-19 cases in Barton County, one under quarantine after contact with positive case

(From the Barton County Health Department)

COVID-19 Update as of 5:00 pm May 30, 2020

Barton County, Missouri:

• 0 positive cases reported to BCHD
• 169 residents have been tested
• 167 resulted negative
• 2 are awaiting test results
• 1 under quarantine for contact to a positive case








Missouri:

• 208,686 Missourians tested
• 12,962 lab confirmed cases - Cumulative since 3/7/2020
• 718 hospitalizations related to COVID-19
• 771 deaths attributed to COVID-19

Visit Missouri’s COVID-19 Dashboard if you would like more in-depth information:
http://mophep.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html…

Saturday, May 30, 2020

Parson activates National Guard, has Highway Patrol ready to assist local authorities

(From Gov. Mike Parson)

Governor Mike Parson today signed Executive Order 20-11 to declare that a State of Emergency exists in Missouri due to civil unrest. The Missouri National Guard and the Missouri Highway Patrol stand ready to support local authorities.

“We are deeply saddened by the tragic death of George Floyd. We are also saddened by the acts of violence that have transpired across our nation and state in response to this event. At this time, we are taking a proactive approach to protect Missouri and its people,” Governor Mike Parson said.

Citizens have the right to peacefully assemble and protest, and the State of Missouri is committed to protecting the lawful exercise of these rights.








Despite the many peaceful assemblies, there are other events occurring throughout Missouri that have created conditions of distress and hazards to the safety, welfare, and property of residents and visitors in our communities that are beyond the capacities of local authorities.

“Violence and destruction are not the answers,” Governor Mike Parson said. “I support those who are calling for justice and peace. However, a small element has seized on these peaceful demonstrations to commit violent acts that endanger the lives of citizens and bring destruction to our communities. This violence not only threatens public safety and destroys economic opportunity; it drowns out the voices of the peaceful demonstrators calling for justice and working to improve our nation.”

This Executive Order calls the Adjutant General of the State of Missouri, or his designee, to forthwith call and order into active service such portions of the National Guard as he deems necessary to aid the executive officials of Missouri to protect life and property.

It is further ordered and directed that the Adjutant General or his designee, and through him, the commanding officer of any unit or other organization of the National Guard, to take such action and employ such equipment as may be necessary in support of civilian authorities and provide such assistance as may be authorized and directed by Governor Parson.

To view Executive Order 20-11, see below.

EO 5-30-2020.pdf

Missouri reports 33 COVID-19 deaths in past 24 hours, 30 in St. Louis County or city of St. Louis

A total of 33 COVID-19 deaths occurred during a 24-hour period with 30 of those deaths coming from either St. Louis County or the city of St. Louis, according to statistics released this afternoon by the Department of Health and Senior Services.

St. Louis County reported 25 deaths and leads the state with 440. St. Louis had five deaths to bring its total to 123.







St. Charles County has had 58 deaths, Kansas City 26, Jackson County 19, Jefferson County 17 and Franklin County 16.

Another 167 coronavirus cases were added increasing the total to 12,962.

Locally, Jasper County has reported 22 cases, McDonald County 20, Newton County 16, Joplin 14 and Barton County none.

Second surgery goes well for Webb City policeman struck by alleged drunk driver

Webb City Police Sgt. Brian Ward, who was hit by an alleged drunk driver Tuesday while vacationing with his family in Florida, underwent his second surgery today, his wife Heather reported in a Facebook post this evening.

The surgery was originally scheduled to take place Friday, but was postponed due to blood clots in his leg, according to Mrs. Ward.

Ward suffered a severely broken right leg, injuries to his left leg and had 12 staples placed in the back of his head after the car dragged him 75 yards.

The Wards' two-year-old son Knox, who Ward was placing in a child safety seat at the time of accident, was also injured, but has been transferred to a regular hospital room, Mrs. Ward said in a Facebook post Thursday night.








Doctors have offered an optimistic prognosis for Ward, but are concerned about infection, his wife wrote:

Brian’s surgeon is amazing. We absolutely love that he goes above and beyond to make sure we understand the whole process.

Brian had surgery today. They weren’t able to get as far as they had hoped. I am thankful they are taking their time and being thorough.

He has a tunnel from his shin above his knee which has created an air pocket above his knee. This is not a normal thing so they took a couple hours and cleaned that area and flushed it really well. He also had a hematoma in that area as well. 



They added a drain to help prevent infection. Infection is our number one concern. It did not seem infected at this point but two samples were sent to the lab. I will post a picture of his x-ray. Brian has a lot of swelling. The skin was stretched pretty far to get it stitched back up. 

At some point a plastic surgeon may have to get involved with that area. The next step would be an incision on the other side of the leg which they can’t do until the swelling goes down. We hope for the next surgery to be Tuesday. 

Brian also has pulmonary embolisms (blood clots in his lungs). They have been monitoring that situation too. He has two torn ligaments around his knee. They cannot do anything about that until the bones are fixed.

Brian had some swelling in his leg during the covid shut down from sitting in his patrol car for long periods. Swelling went down so he never got that checked. It was in fact a blood clot. On impact this broke loose and also dispersed into smaller clots. Those are what are in his lungs.










The doctor said we are not out of the woods by any means but he is very optimistic. This type of injury has a 45% infection rate. Infection is the biggest concern.

Again, thank you all for your love and support.

An account has been established at Pinnacle Bank to help the Ward family with medical expenses:

WARD FAMILY BENEFIT ACCOUNT

Here is a list of the Joplin metro Pinnacle Bank locations:

1010 S Madison Street, Suite M, Webb City
802 S Main Street, Joplin
2433 S Rangeline Road, Joplin
1316 E 32nd Street, Joplin
1651 W 7th Street, Joplin
501 Cross St, Sarcoxie


No Newton County COVID-19 cases in isolation, three people under quarantine

(From the Newton County Health Department)

Weekly COVID-19 Update
Total confirmed cases: 16
Cases currently isolated: 0
Released from isolation: 15
Passed away: 1








Total quarantined contacts: 74
Total currently quarantined: 3
Released from quarantine: 71

Please continue to social distance and maintain 6 ft distance from other people when possible. Cover your coughs and sneezes, please use face coverings or masks when in public. Please stay home when ill. We need to continue to work together to keep each other safe and we will get through this trying time. Stay safe and healthy!!!

Springfield Target store, dozens of others across the country closed until further notice

Target has closed 119 stores until further notice, including its store in Springfield, according to a news release issued by the company.

The closings are due to the fallout of the death of George Floyd in Minneapolis, which has included the burning of a Target store in that city.

Sixty-nine of the stores are in Minnesota.

In addition to the Springfield store, Missouri stores closed were in Brentwood, Bridgeton, Florissant and Hampton Village.

The Joplin Target store is not affected.








The news release, including a complete list of stores that closed, is printed below:

We are heartbroken by the death of George Floyd and the pain it is causing communities across the country. At this time, we have made the decision to close a number of our stores. We anticipate most stores will be closed temporarily.

Our focus will remain on our team members’ safety and helping our community heal.

We are providing our team members with direct communications updates regarding any store impact where they work. Additionally, team members impacted by store closures will be paid for up to 14 days of scheduled hours during store closures, including COVID-19 premium pay. They will also be able to work at other nearby Target locations.








Other states

Hawthorne, CA
Beverly Blvd Los Angeles, CA
LA Central Los Angeles, CA
Oakland, CA*
Oakland Emeryville, CA
Downtown Denver, CO*
Buckhead Atlanta, GA*
Buckhead South Atlanta, GA*
Hyde Park Chicago, IL
McKinley Park Chicago, IL
South Loop Chicago, IL
State Street Chicago, IL
Streeterville Chicago, IL
Wilson Yard Chicago, IL
West Loop Chicago, IL
Flint, MI
Brentwood, MO
Bridgeton, MO
Florissant, MO
Hampton Village St. Louis, MO
Springfield, MO
Omaha, NE
Flushing, NY
Harlem New York, NY
Mount Vernon, NY
Bronx-Throggs Neck Bronx, NY
Bronx Terminal Bronx, NY
Riverdale Bronx, NY
Brooklyn Junction Brooklyn, NY
Gateway Brooklyn, NY
Queens Place Elmhurst, NY
College Point, NY
Elmont, NY
Hicksville, NY
Phila-Art Museum Philadelphia, PA
Phila-Washington Square W Philadelphia, PA
Rittenhouse Square N. Philadelphia, PA
Northern Liberties Philadelphia, PA
Galleria Morrison Portland, OR
UT Campus Store Austin, TX
Saltillo Austin, TX
North Austin, TX
Cityplace Market Dallas, TX
North Dallas, TX
Medallion Dallas, TX
Preston Center Dallas, TX
Northeast Skillman Dallas, TX
Love Field Dallas, TX
West Milwaukee, WI
Chase Milwaukee, WI

*These stores are closed until further notice.

Jasper Police Chief: I'm not a racist

A Facebook post, since removed, from his personal page, in which Jasper Police Chief Chad Karr appeared to be defending the policing methods used by former Minneapolis police officer Derek Chauvin that resulted in the death of George Floyd, has resulted in Karr taking the unusual step of posting another status update to say he is not a racist.

"Ok, so my phone has been blowing up the last couple days about folks posting about me and calling me racist over a post I made a couple night ago in reference to the George Floyd.

"It was taken out of context by some I believe, that was on me for maybe not explaining well enough what I was trying to say. I can tell you that in no way, shape or form was I condoning or supporting what the officer did nor do I believe it was acceptable."







In his original Facebook post, Karr said that in the video "what the officer is doing is something that I've done and seen officers doing while fighting a combative subject.

"I'm gonna go ahead and say what the officer did DIDN'T kill this person directly."

Karr said that Chauvin's methods were not unusual and are taught here locally.

"What the officer is doing is actually taught in our local academy. I don't know of the exact circumstances of this particular incident, but do not be shocked and riot if these officers are proven not to be at fault.

"And for anybody making it a racial issue ... completely bogus. That man could be whatever color you wanna make him, it'd be the same result."

Karr added, "And it really make me wonder why some folks are so quick to jump on the 'racist cops killed this man solely because he's black' bandwagon ... Maybe a lil' guilt.

After Karr posted his view on the incident that led to the George Floyd's death, the post went viral locally and as Karr noted in his later clarification featured many comments that were highly critical.

Karr's complete response to the social media eruption that took place after his initial comments is printed below:

Ok... So my phone has been blowing up the last couple days about folks posting about me and calling me racist over a post i made a couple nights ago in reference to the George Floyd.

It was taken out of context by some I believe, that was on me for maybe not explaining well enough what I was trying to say. I can tell you that in no way shape or form was I condoning or supporting what the officer did nor do i believe it was acceptable.









When i posted, the story had just broke and there wasn’t much information out yet, and i believe it was just bits and pieces of the video. I try not to engage too much in these kinds of things because to be honest, it’s a lose/lose situation. Then the posts started popping up about killing cops and the picture of the officer kneeling on Floyd’s neck and Kaepernick kneeling and basically things were being said that Kap kneels and gets crucified, a white cop kneels on a black man’s neck and nothing will happen. Also some were calling for officers to be assaulted and that enough is enough.

My entire point was that there isn’t enough information out there yet to start making a judgement and start going after white officers, so let’s wait and get more information on this... Something that we as a society haven’t done well in past incidents that made national headlines where a black man dies at the hands of white officers. 

Also was explaining or attempting to explain that some tactics are taught to officers during defensive tactics class where you attempt to arrest a subject where you are squatted down (supposed to be on the balls of your feet and not have your full weight on the subject) knee/shin are on upper back and a knee/shin on the lower head/upper neck area... 

Now, if you are part of an incident where you are attempting arrest on a combative subject with other officers and you get the subject to the ground and on his belly... If you are near the head area, you naturally take control of the upper torso/head area while the officers work to get the subject place in handcuffs/leg irons to subdue him... 

If you are alone and you get the subject proned out on his belly... Then you use a similar technique, squatted down (supposed to be on the balls of your feet and not have your full weight on the subject) knee/shin are on upper back and a knee/shin on the lower head/upper neck area, then you use a wrist lock to help control the subject and place him in cuffs. 

What i was getting at is, what was the officer thinking? What was his intent? What else was going on around him that made him stay on that man’s neck the way he did and for that length of time? I was saying we should hold off judgement until we see what is found out with the investigation and such. 

That’s not defending the officer not excusing him, just how i personally think... Because things aren’t always as they appear. I do believe what the officer did was unacceptable and he’ll he will answer for what he did... His “intent” will have a lot to do with what charge he is charged with if charges are brought on him and others. 

All I was saying is let’s not start crucifying ALL law enforcement for the actions of a couple officers in this case. I have a vested interest in this stuff because reality is I am a white police officer and I am not ok with folks calling to harm us. 

The video looks terrible, it’s sad to watch... In fact i was throwing my hands up and saying to the officer who was standing there with the crowd to turn around and get that officer off the man’s neck, or any of the other officers to intervene. 

Like i said, i wasn’t there, what were those officers thinking or what was their intent. I’ve personally involved in apprhension of subjects with other officers and it’s not pretty. It’s ALWAYS ugly... 

In a few of those instances I’ve seen officers have control of the person’s head or upper torso area/neck area when trying to get the person apprehended. I’ve personally have had to tell other officers we are done, he’s detained and have had to be told that myself. 

During physical altercations, I can tell you i experienced tunnel vision and you lose track of time and there is a lot going on that is a blur. 

Not saying these officers were experiencing this, but it’s just my experience and could have played a factor in this. Not making any excuse for this, just the way I think as far as “why did this happen the way it happened." 

We also don’t know all of what took place before the incident on the ground. A man died... I like to ask myself why did it happen and what could of happened differently to where this man wouldn’t be dead. 









First observation when watching is “the officer on his neck should of got off his neck and readjust or assess the situation and whether the subject was secured and in custody”. At the time of my post, we don’t quite know much except what the short clip of the video showed.

As far as betting $500 that the officer’s knee to the neck wasn’t the only contributor to the man’s death, from past knowledge of other similar incidents where a person dies during a physical struggle with police, there has been other factors contributing to the death... Factors such as the person’s overall health and fitness level, underlying factors such as a bad heart, drugs and alcohol in the person’s body, etc. 

Not saying what the officer did didn’t contribute to the man’s death, just saying usually it’s a totality of things. Poor explanation on my part maybe.

I was in no shape or form being racist. I was responding to posts i seen about hurting officers and was saying hold up, lets get more info on this before wanting to murder and hurt officers because of our skin color. Folks who know me have never seen me say anything racist nor act in anyway shape or form showing racism. I’ve never used skin color as a way to treat a person, in my personal life or as a police officer. I have arrested, i have helped, i have kids stay at my house with the girls that ase black , hispanic, etc. and i treat everybody the same. Always have. I played college football, worked in law enforcement with different ethnicities and never once treated them differently nor did it even cross my mind.

All the messages, comments, posts, and even calls calling me a racist piece of shit and that i need to die, etc... That is a little excessive maybe, but it is what it is... I know what i’m about and what i’ve done in my life and my career and the folks who said these things don’t know me personally.

Basically I failed to follow my own rules of not engaging in this type of stuff... But I was seeing posts inciting violence towards cops... it triggered me. That’s my fault. So i’m kinda to blame. And no matter what I said other than “fry those cops now!”... there were folks that would attack me... Again, a big reason why I shoulda stayed out of it. It’s a lose/lose situation for some of us.

Basically I was saying... relax, let’s not start calling cops to be hurt or killed, let’s not lump all officers into “bad officers” and wait for more facts before reacting so viciously.

Hope this helps and clears up any confusion to a post i made that was made late at night when this old man is kinda worn down and ready for bed and out of anger from seeing things about officers. Some folks got what i was saying, some didn’t and took it wrong. I’m certainly NOT racist though.

I’m done talking about this and moving on... Folks will still have their opinions of me, and that’s not gonna change, that’s all part of life and I accept.

Friday, May 29, 2020

Three additional COVID-19 deaths reported in Oklahoma

(From the Oklahoma State Department of Health)

As of this advisory, there are 6,338 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma.

There are three additional deaths; two of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the other died on May 23.

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

-Two in Tulsa County, both males in the 65 and older age group. 

There are 329 total deaths in the state.








The State has surpassed its goal to collect and test more than 90,000 specimens in the month of May. 

As of Wednesday, May 27, the Oklahoma State Department of Health had processed 113,264 specimens collected for COVID-19 testing since the first of the month, with a total of 183,632 tests conducted since COVID-19 was first detected in early March. For more information on testing, click here.

COVID-19 testing sites are open in multiple cities in Oklahoma as a result of a cross-county, city and state health system partnership. Visit this page for updated dates and locations.
For more information, visit coronavirus.health.ok.gov.

McDonald County records 20th COVID-19 case

(From the McDonald County Health Department)

McDonald County Health Department announces the 20th case of COVID-19 in NE McDonald County.

This case did have symptoms and was a contact to a positive case. All contacts are being notified.

Missouri records 31 COVID-19 deaths in last 24 hours, 20 in St. Louis County

Thirty-one more COVID-19 deaths took place in Missouri over the last 24 hours, including 20 in St. Louis County, according to statistics released this afternoon by the Department of Health and Senior Services.

Five more death occurred in St. Louis and three in St. Charles County.







St. Louis County has had 415 of the state's 738 coronavirus deaths, followed by St. Louis with 118, St. Charles County 57, Kansas City 26, Jackson County 17 and 16 in Jefferson and Franklin counties.

A total of 12,795 COVID-19 cases have been confirmed in Missouri, including 122 in the last 24 hours.

Locally, the state statistics show Jasper County with 22 (two more have since been added), 20 in McDonald County, 16 in Newton County, 14 in Joplin and none in Barton County.

Billy Long gives thanks to our heroes

(From Seventh District Congressman Billy Long)

I lost a dear friend and we all lost a true American Hero on Wednesday May 27th; Col. Sam Johnson was 89 years old. Each of his fingers ran in three or four different directions and he walked with a severe limp, all the result of the daily beatings he received from his captors during the seven years he spent in the Hanoi Hilton as a POW during the Vietnam War.

Sam served in the United States Congress for 28 years before deciding not to seek re-election and retiring in January of 2019. I had the honor and distinct privilege of serving alongside Sam for 8 of those 28 years. 

Although he went through the security check point at Reagan National airport three times a month, one day a TSA agent was giving him a hard time in the body scanner where you are required to raise your hands high above your head. 








“Raise your hands higher,” the agent barked at Sam. Sam snapped back, “this is as high as I can raise them.” At which point I stepped in and said, “he was beaten for seven years - leave him alone; he’s a Congressman and an American Hero!” 

I never met a kinder or gentler man than Sam or “Sammy Baby” as I called him - he loved it and would always get that twinkle in his eye when I would address him as such. 

Col. Robert Sam Johnson was the embodiment of the Heroes we take time to honor every Memorial Day. If you want to truly understand Sam Johnson, pick up a copy of his book Captive Warriors, and no, you cannot have my signed copy.

Last weekend, our nation paused to remember the brave men and women like Sam who made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of our great nation. 

Unfortunately, we were unable to celebrate these heroes at the U.S. Capitol and Arlington National Cemetery was closed to only family due to the Coronavirus. 

Our subdued celebrations serve as a stark reminder of how vital our essential workers and frontline heroes are, and I encourage you all to join me in giving thanks to the men and women fighting a different kind of war on our nation.

We owe a great debt to all of the doctors, nurses, firefighters, police officers, first responders, and hospital staff who have put themselves in harm’s way day in and day out caring for COVID-19 patients. 

These men and women have gone above and beyond the call of duty, often working with few breaks and serving as emotional support systems for both patients and their families since loved ones are not allowed inside the hospital. We have all heard the heart-wrenching stories of doctors trying to comfort a critically ill patient or delivering heartbreaking news over the phone to the families of those who did not survive. 








We have become all too familiar with tales of the devastating toll this pandemic has taken on the healthcare workers themselves as they became sick or struggled to cope with the heartache of losing patients. What our healthcare professionals and first responders have witnessed in recent months and sacrificed to keep us safe is unimaginable, and I am eternally grateful for their service to our nation.

Across the country, farmers, ranchers, producers, and grocery store employees have worked tirelessly to ensure that our shelves are stocked during this pandemic and that our stores remain clean. These men and women have worked grueling hours to meet an often-overwhelming demand so that our families would not go hungry or without the cleaning supplies needed to keep our homes safe. We are also grateful for our postal workers, truck drivers, and fulfillment center staff for working long hours to fulfill online orders and to the restaurant employees who have continued to make hot meals available, especially for essential workers who may be too tired or busy to cook themselves.

These courageous men and women have all answered the call to serve our nation in this unprecedented time of need and have the love and support of a grateful nation. It is because of these frontline heroes that this virus has met its match and will be defeated. I am incredibly grateful for all of our frontline workers and to the millions of Americans who have stayed home to help flatten the curve. We are a strong nation and I have no doubt that we will emerge from this stronger than ever.

Twenty COVID-19 cases in 24 hours in Greene County, including six from nursing home

(From the Springfield-Greene County Health Department)

The Springfield-Greene County Health Department has seen 20 new confirmed cases of COVID-19 within the past 24 hours.

Six of our new cases include staff and residents of Wilson’s Creek Nursing and Rehab at 3403 W. Mt. Vernon.

Four residents and two staff tested positive. The facility had a symptomatic patient they tested, and when a positive result came back, they moved to test every patient and staff member in the facility.

“The patients are currently in isolation and have been since their positive test result at the facility and staff members are quarantined at home following guidance from the CDC to reduce the risk of exposure to others,” stated Michael Huffman, administrator of Wilson’s Creek Nursing and Rehab.










Six other cases are from a traveling construction crew. One individual knew they had been exposed to other cases out of state, and the whole crew sought testing. Some tests of these crew members are still pending.

Of these 20 new cases, none represent clients from the Great Clips exposures. To date, we have received 45 negative test results from this group. We are encouraged by this news, and believe it is solid evidence of the value and protective nature of masking.

On Wednesday, our Mobile Testing Site saw its busiest day with 138 tests given.

The Heath Department is also notifying the public of several new potential exposures:

• Thursday, May 21: Walmart Supercenter at 3520 W. Sunshine sometime in the afternoon, no specific time given (symptomatic, not masked)

• Thursday, May 21: Petsway at 1717 W. Kearney around 6 p.m. (infectious but didn’t show symptoms, not masked)

• Thursday, May 21: Price Cutter at 1831 W. Kearney around 5 p.m. (infectious but didn’t show symptoms, not masked)

• Friday, May 22: Walmart Neighborhood Market at 3536 W. Mt. Vernon around 4 p.m. (infectious but didn’t show symptoms, not masked)

• Sunday, May 24: Walmart Supercenter at 3315 S. Campbell around 3 p.m. (infectious but didn’t show symptoms, not masked)










A timeline of known potential community exposures in the past 14 days is available here.

Archived video of this announcement as well as past COVID-19 news, is available at: https://cityview.springfieldmo.gov/

As we take steps to reopen our community, it is even more important for all of us to interact with our environment carefully. If we do get sick, we should stay home.

COVID-19 is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person coughs or sneezes. It spreads between people who are in close contact with one another.

Anyone who was at any of these locations on these dates is at low risk for contracting COVID-19, but should monitor for symptoms. There is no need to self-quarantine or isolate unless symptoms develop.

The CDC recently updated its list of COVID-19 related symptoms, which now include:

• Fever or chills

• Cough

• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

• Fatigue

• Muscle or body aches

• Headache

• New loss of taste or smell

• Sore throat

• Congestion or runny nose

• Nausea or vomiting

• Diarrhea

If symptoms do develop, seek medical attention.

If you are sick, you can use virtual care options to seek medical treatment without exposing others to illness. Links are available at?health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus

For more information about COVID-19, visit our website at health.springfieldmo.gov/coronavirus, email coronavirus@springfieldmo.gov, or call 417-874-1211.

Hutchinson: Coming back from the health and economic crisis

(From Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson)

The Economic Recovery Task Force has submitted its interim report to me, and today I’d like to talk about some of the steps we need to take to boost our economy after COVID-19.

The report paints an accurate picture of COVID’s impact on the state. For example, it notes 5,500 jobs were lost in the hotel industry, and there has been a 13.4 percent decrease in total consumer spending.

We see the signs everywhere that the pandemic has dealt our state and nation a setback, but I am optimistic about our future and a return to a growing economy.









Typically, Arkansans have acted responsibly, which has blunted the loss of jobs that we have seen in other states. While the precautions and limits have been inconvenient, we knew they were necessary for everyone’s health. Arkansans’ willingness to look beyond their own personal comfort has allowed us to beat the national projections for the number of illnesses and deaths. Our rates of illness and death are among the lowest in the country.

In terms of our economy, before the coronavirus hit, Arkansas was enjoying historically low unemployment and a thriving economy.

By mid-April, when we hit the peak of business disruption, about 17,000 of Arkansas’s small businesses were closed, which represents 35 percent of the total. That is 10 percent below the national average.

The unemployment rate rose to 10.2 percent in April, but that is 4 percent lower than the national average.

A U.S. Census survey taken in early May found that 39 percent of Arkansans had lost some income since mid-March. Another 23 percent of Arkansas households reported “housing insecurity.”

The physical, economic, and emotional toll on Arkansans is hard to comprehend. But this isn’t the first time we have weathered difficult days. We have overcome hardship before.








The members of the Economic Recovery Task Force have been hard at work over the past six weeks. They have studied the impact from every angle as they chart a path to recovery. They have identified opportunities, such as increased workforce training and expanding rural broadband, that not only will help us as we work our way out of this but will have a long-lasting impact on Arkansas.

The task force also recommended liability protection as businesses return, open, and expand, and they also recommend new solutions for the childcare needs of workers.

The Task Force Chairman, Steuart Walton, expressed his optimism at a news conference this last week. He noted that the health crisis and the resulting economic crisis are linked. We can’t beat one unless we beat the other.

We will conquer both. Arkansans are doing a great job of looking out for one another. That is just the way we are.

Springfield Police Chief: We don't do things like those Minneapolis officers

(From the Springfield Police Department)

Letter to the Citizens of Springfield from Chief of Police Paul Williams

I’m aware of and following the recent events in Minneapolis. I was shocked by the behavior of the Minneapolis police officers that led to the untimely death of George Floyd. 

The actions seen in the video do not align with the training or values of the Springfield Police Department, nor with those of the policing profession as a whole, and I consider those actions egregious and inexcusable.








I also understand that while this tragedy occurred hundreds of miles away, it still affects us all in a variety of ways. 

The members of the SPD want to assure the citizens of Springfield that we stand with them and we respect their right to voice their concerns, peacefully. We are committed to continuing to partner with all members of our community to ensure that our city remains a place we can all be proud of.

Carthage city, school board candidates express views in virtual forum

The Carthage Chamber of Commerce posted this YouTube video of Carthage city and R-9 School Board candidates offering the reasons why voters should support their candidacies.

The election, originally scheduled for April, but postponed due to the pandemic, will be held Tuesday.






Second surgery delayed for Webb City PD sergeant struck by alleged drunk driver

The second surgery for Webb City Police Department Sergeant Brian Ward, who was struck and severely injured by an alleged drunk driver Tuesday while vacationing with his family in Florida, was delayed due to blood clots in his leg, according to his wife Heather.

Ward suffered a severely broken right leg, injuries to his left leg and had 12 staples placed in the back of his head after the car dragged him 75 yards. The Wards' two-year-old son Knox, who Ward was placing in a child safety seat at the time of accident, was also injured, but has been transferred to a regular hospital room, Mrs. Ward said in a Facebook post Thursday night.

In the post, she revealed the effect the accident has had on their five-year-old daughter Reagan, who witnessed it.








Update as of 5/28 10:45 pm:

Today was busy. I like busy because when I’m not busy the nightmare returns to my memory and is still very fresh.

Today, Knox was moved from PICU to a regular room. Fingers crossed he is released tomorrow so I can focus a little more on Brian’s care.

Brian was scheduled for surgery number two tomorrow. He has blood clots in his leg so they pushed it back. They started medication for the clots today. Tomorrow they will put a filter in to help break the clots up and then they will evaluate the soft tissue. In order for Brian’s surgery to be successful they will have to make sure the soft tissue is good enough to repair the bones. This may require a few more surgeries to clean the tissue and get it ready. His original surgeon passed Brian’s case to some one he felt was more qualified. This is something his new doctor has done many, many times. Brian’s is in his top 3 worst cases. Brian is very lucky his arteries weren’t damaged and that he still has blood flow to his leg and a very strong pulse. It’s basically another miracle. If this wasn’t the case he would have lost his leg completely.

We did end up taking Reagan to get checked out today. She was vomiting this morning and I wanted to make sure she didn’t have something going on from collision. With all of the chaos, I was afraid maybe she had bumped her head or been hurt and we didn’t know. She checked out perfectly. I’m thinking it’s just her way of coping with this.

I want to share a special moment from this evening. Knox and Reagan are normally stuck to each other like glue. They are best buds. This is the longest they have been apart since Knox was born.


An account has been established at Pinnacle Bank to help the Ward family with medical expenses:

WARD FAMILY BENEFIT ACCOUNT

Here is a list of the Joplin metro Pinnacle Bank locations:

1010 S Madison Street, Suite M, Webb City
802 S Main Street, Joplin
2433 S Rangeline Road, Joplin
1316 E 32nd Street, Joplin
1651 W 7th Street, Joplin
501 Cross St, Sarcoxie

Still no COVID-19 cases in Barton County, two tests pending

(From the Barton County Health Department)

COVID-19 Update as of 5:00 pm May 28, 2020

Barton County, Missouri:

• 0 positive cases
• 162 residents have been tested
• 160 resulted negative
• 2 are awaiting test results
• 1 under quarantine for contact to a positive case








Missouri:

• 191,894 Missourians tested
• 12,673 lab confirmed cases (Total since 3/7/20)
• 648 hospitalizations related to COVID-19
• 707 deaths attributed to COVID-19

Visit Missouri’s COVID-19 Dashboard if you would like more in-depth information:

http://mophep.maps.arcgis.com/apps/MapSeries/index.html…

Thursday, May 28, 2020

Four more COVID-19 deaths in Oklahoma, 6270 cases

(From the Oklahoma State Department of Health)

As of this advisory, there are 6,270 confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Oklahoma. 

There are four additional deaths; one of them occurred in the past 24 hours and the others died between May 22-May 26.

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

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








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

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

There are 326 total deaths in the state.

COVID-19 testing sites are open in multiple cities in Oklahoma as a result of a cross-county, city and state health system partnership. Visit this page for updated dates and locations.

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

Agenda posted for Joplin City Council meeting

JOPLIN CITY COUNCIL
REGULAR MEETING AGENDA
MONDAY, JUNE 1, 2020
5th FLOOR COUNCIL CHAMBERS
602 S. MAIN ST. JOPLIN MO
6:00 PM

NOTE: The number of guests in the Council Chambers is limited to 45 due
to the social distancing requirement of 6 ft.

1.

Call To Order

Invocation
Pledge of Allegiance of the United States of America
2.

Roll Call

3.

Presentations

1.

Proclamation Recognizing The 100th Anniversary Of Kiwanis Club Of Joplin

Documents:
  1. KIWANIS 2020.PDF
4.

Finalization Of Consent Agenda

5.

Reports And Communications

1.
2.

Insurance Benefits RFP Report By Segal.

6.

Citizen Requests And Petitions

7.

Public Hearings

1.

PUBLIC HEARING PROCEDURES

2.

COUNCIL BILL NO 2020-259

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of
Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District R-1 and including in District R-2 property as described below and located approximately 140’ North and 60’ West of the intersection of N Oliver Ave. and W A St., City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
3.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-260

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of
Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District C-O and including in District C-1 property as described below and located 5526 W 32nd Street, City of Joplin, Jasper County and Newton County, Missouri.
4.

COUNCIL BILL NO 2020-261

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of
Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District R-1 and including in District R-2 property as described below and located Approximately 50’ West of the West end of public right-of-way on Douglas Place, City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
5.

COUNCIL BILL NO 2020-262

AN ORDINANCE providing the vacation for a public street located Pearl Ave. right-of-way lying North of W. 7th St. and South of W 6th St. in the City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
6.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-263

AN ORDINANCE providing the vacation for an easement located Sergeant Ave. street right-of-way lying South of W. 24th St. and North of W. 25th St. in the City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
7.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-264

AN ORDINANCE providing to vacate an easement approximately 1000 feet East of the intersection of E 26th St. and S Irwin Ave in the City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
8.

Consent Agenda

1.

May 18, 2020 Joplin City Council Meeting Minutes

Documents:
  1. MAY 18, 2020.PDF
2.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-123

AN ORDINANCE approving a work authorization with Allgeier, Martin and Associates, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of Sixty Thousand And No/100 Dollars ($60,000.00) for the 20th and Malang Lift Station Improvements Project; and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Joplin.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-123.PDF
3.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-254

AN ORDINANCE approving the voluntary annexation by the City of Joplin, Missouri, located at 266 County Road 190, Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-254.PDF
4.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-255

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District R-1 and including in District M-2 property as described below and located 266 County Road 190, City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-255.PDF
5.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-256

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District C-1-PD and including in District C-3 property as described below and located 1502 Rangeline Rd., City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-256.PDF
6.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-257

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the City of Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District R-1 and including in District R-2 property as described below and located 2511 Murphy Ave., City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-257.PDF
7.

COUNCIL BILL NO 2020-258

AN ORDINANCE providing the vacation for a public street located approximately 300 feet East of the intersection of S. McIntosh Circle and W. 32nd St. in the City of Joplin, Newton County, Missouri.
8.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-284

AN ORDINANCE amending Ordinance No. 2004-256, passed by the Council of the City of Joplin, Missouri, November 15, 2004, by removing from District M-2-PD and including in District R-3 property as described below and located 3110 E 13th St, City of Joplin, Jasper County, Missouri.
Documents:
  1. CB2020-284.PDF
9.

Resolutions

10.

Ordinances - Emergency

1.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-138

AN ORDINANCE authorizing an agreement by and between the City of Joplin and Hutchens Construction Company, LLC., for the Relocation of the General Aviation (GA) Entrance Road at the Joplin Regional Airport; and containing an emergency clause.          

2.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-139

AN ORDINANCE authorizing a supplemental agreement by and between the City of Joplin and Crawford, Murphy & Tilly, Inc., for Construction Observation Services for the Relocation of the General Aviation Entrance Road at the Joplin Regional Airport; and containing an emergency clause.
3.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-142

AN ORDINANCE Authorizing the acceptance of a grant from the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Transit Administration (FTA) Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act or “the Act”) to help the City of Joplin respond to and recover from the COVID-19 emergency by providing up to 100% reimbursement of operational expenses related to the Metropolitan Area Public Transit System (MAPS) and Sunshine Lamp Trolley, authorizing the City Manager, or his designee, to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Joplin; and containing an emergency clause.
4.

COUNCIL BILL NO 2020-354

AN ORDINANCE approving the contract by and between the City of Joplin and B&D Yardbuilders for the demolition of the structure(s) and clearing of lot area located at 1011 S. Jackson Ave. in the City of Joplin, Missouri, for One Thousand Nine Hundred Ninety-five and 00/100 Dollars ($1,995.00); providing how the cost thereof shall be paid; how the assessment thereof shall be made; and containing an emergency clause.
5.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-355

AN ORDINANCE approving the contract by and between the City of Joplin and Gator Industrial for the demolition of the structure(s) and clearing of lot area located at 617, 619 & 621 E. 13TH St. in the City of Joplin, Missouri, for Two Thousand Eight Hundred Fifty and 00/100 Dollars ($ 2,850.00); providing how the cost thereof shall be paid; how the assessment thereof shall be made; and containing an emergency clause.
6.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-357

AN ORDINANCE approving the contract by and between the City of Joplin and Gator Industrial for the demolition of the structure(s) and clearing of lot area located at 231 S. Park Ave. in the City of Joplin, Missouri, for Three Thousand Three Hundred and 00/100 Dollars ($3,300.00); providing how the cost thereof shall be paid; how the assessment thereof shall be made; and containing an emergency clause.
11.

Ordinances - First Reading

1.

COUNCIL BILL NO. 2020-143

AN ORDINANCE approving Amendment 1 to Work Authorization BW-Conn-TC0606 with Bartlett & West, Inc. in the not to exceed amount of Two Hundred Forty-Eight Thousand Five Hundred Ninety-Six and 00/100 dollars ($248,596.00) for engineering services for the Connecticut Avenue Widening project and authorizing the City Manager or his designee to execute the same by and on behalf of the City of Joplin.
12.

Ordinances - Second Reading And Third Reading

13.

Unfinished Business

14.

New Business

1.

Case 023-20

Case 023-20 Site Plan Review – A request to review the Site Plan for a proposed Senior Living
Facility located at 2001 E. 44th Street – Coryell Joplin
2.

Boards/Commissions Appointments & Reappointments

3.

Announcements From Public Information Office