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MO Attorney General Pushes To Have Mask Mandate Lawsuit Class Certified

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The Camdenton R-3 School District and School of the Osage are not forcing children to wear masks all day in school, but some school districts in Missouri are, and they’re facing what could be a class certified lawsuit.

Attorney General Eric Schmitt has already filed lawsuit against some districts in St. Louis, Kansas City and Columbia.

But if the lawsuit gets class certification, 50 more school districts would be added to the lawsuit.

The AG’s website shows zero children under the age of 10 have died from COVID-19, and DHSS numbers show children make up less than 1 of every 100-thousand people hospitalized with COVID in Missouri.

Schmitt says wearing masks is a decision for parents and students, not for school districts.

Attorney Talks About COVID Mandates And Local Businesses

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As pushback and defiance of Washington DC’s COVID shot mandates continues, one local attorney is talking about the future relationship between businesses and their employees.

“This is going to be a huge impact as folks continue to look forward. I think employers are going to struggle with “how do I deal with this COVID 19 thing” and “How do I let people back into my business” as opposed to not” says Attorney At Law David Porter.

He tells KRMS News Lake Area businesses need to have their own plan moving ahead “Don’t let yourself get carried away with the global and national rhetoric and let that decide how you drive your business.”

Porter also talks about how the word ‘science’ is being used in ongoing COVID measures “There’s a lot of different positions on what the science is. And the science is constantly evolving. I think the idea that science is a static, that we’re going to land on a place in science and that’s where we are going to stop, that’s really really false.”

The Biden Administration’s COVID shot mandates are being condemned by the entire Camden County Commission, U-S Missouri Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler and also Governor Mike Parson.

Porter Law handles Business, Estate Planning and Mediation in Lake Ozark.

Local Fire Chief Dies After Battle With COVID 19

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A Lake Area Fire Chief has died after a battle with COVID 19.

Chief Rickey Hobbs of the Tri-County Fire Protection District passed away on Tuesday morning with his family by his side.

He had been battling the virus since early September.

The Mayor and the Board of Alderman in the city of Richland have made a proclamation in his name, requesting all flags be displayed at half-staff until the day he is laid to rest.

Chief Hobbs has been serving the Laclede, Camden, and Pulaski County communities for more than 30 years.

School Of The Osage Clarifies It’s Stance On COVID 19 Vaccination Requirements

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While the White House tries to force you into taking a COVID shot, School of the Osage wants to end speculation about how students and faculty are being handled before it begins.

“There is no room for speculation on this right now. We haven’t been directed by the Governing body that Governs School Districts, around adding this to our Immunization rotation” Says Superintendent Dr. Laura Nelson.

She tells KRMS News the governing body for School of the Osage and public schools around Missouri is the Department of Elementary and Secondary Education “The State of Missouri regulates the way schools regulated vaccines and immunizations. We’re guided by DESE in the matter and that haven’t made any statements on that (COVID Vaccines) yet.”

She also says the interest for School of the Osage is to educate children in the best environment possible while keeping them out of the crosshairs of speculation “We hear things on TV all the time…and we don’t just jump into action. We, are very steady in our responses and right now there seems to be a lot of challenge to what is being said.”

Dr. Nelson confirms to KRMS News children are not forced to take COVID shots and teachers and faculty can choose to take one or not.

Camden County Commission Remains United Against Vaccine Mandates

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The Camden County Commission is showing unity in standing up to the Biden Administrations new vaccine mandates.

“We’re all 3 dead set against this” says Commissioner Don Williams, “This has to do with taking away people’s freedom of choice…their freedom of Liberty.”

Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says his first call after learning about Washington’s vaccine mandates was to James Gohagan, then the three Commissioners then set up an executive session to talk things over.

“Based on my conversations with all 3 county commissioners….we agree, that we would all 3…rather be removed from our offices, before we will back down from this unconstitutional mandate from this President regarding these vaccinations” says Hasty, “If you look at our COVID rates, they’re no worse than anywhere else. They’re actually better! We’ve had 105 deaths, so far in our county of 4 or 5 thousand. The deadliness of this virus, that we’re seeing statistically in Camden County….doesn’t reflect what they’re trying to tell us.”

Hasty tells KRMS News he had COVID earlier this year, and while he says it was difficult, he still supports the right of all Camden County residents to make their own decision on whether or not to take a COVID shot.

In statement on Facebook, James Gohagan indicated he will stand firm in his decision “Citizens of Camden County, I will never agree to force you to put anything into your body against your will, that applies for county employees as well. My vote will always be no.”

Don Williams says he’s questioning some of the COVID data he’s been following, like health experts saying a 50-to-75-percent vaccination rate would bring on herd immunity from COVID “75% of the Population has already had the first shot….53% of the population have had both vaccinations for COVID. So, we’re already approaching herd immunity! So…what was the motivation for President Biden to pass this vaccine mandate?”

Hasty says he also stands by the decision to open the county in the summer of 2020 after a 30-day shutdown before tourism started “One of the things we all discussed was…if it was as bad as they said it was going to be, there wouldn’t have been a need for a shutdown or any further orders because no one would have been going anywhere. Everyone would have been hiding out.”

Instead, Hasty says Camden County has flourished since last summer and that it also became a model of what the rest of the U-S should have done.

The Camden County Commission is waiting to see if state legal action will adequately protect county residents, or if it will have to take its own legal action against Washington, DC.

Camden County Commission – Local And State Leaders Snap Back At COVID Vaccine Mandates

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The Camden County Commission, U-S Representatives Blaine Luetkemeyer and Vicky Hartzler, and Governor Mike Parson are united in their stance on a Biden Administration mandate to take new COVID shots.

Governor Parson says it’s a poor attempt by the White House to reset after the disaster in Afghanistan and that his administration will fight it (See below.)

Representative Luetkemeyer thinks it’s going nowhere “This is so over the top, this is so tyrannical in the way they are doing this…it’s going to be challenged in court and I think the courts will overturn it.”

He’s joined by Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, who says these mandates are not American at all “I never thought I would see a day, in our country, where the Government would be forcing citizens to do something (a medical procedure) and these mandates are just out of line. They’re UN-American and they have to be opposed.”

Camden County Presiding Commissioner Greg Hasty says in a release (see below), that the commission’s united in its concerns about the federal measures as well.

Hasty points to early January, when the Commission voted to rescind a prior ordinance requiring food service workers to get hepatitis A vaccines.

On the same day in January, the Commission passed an ordinance recognizing and reasserting several God-given rights, including your right to reject any forced vaccinations and, in some cases, medications.

Hasty says Camden County, unlike many others in Missouri and the U-S, has refused to pass ordinances requiring face masks in schools, public places or working locations.

The Biden Administration also wants to double fines for airline passengers who refuse to cover their faces on a place, despite little evidence mask-wearing impacts the spread of COVID.

 

***More from the Camden County Commission on the Vaccines below:

The Camden County Commission met this morning in executive session to discuss the potential ramifications of the Presidential covid vaccine mandates announced by Washington on Thursday, September 9, 2021.

The president announced vaccination requirements for health care providers that accept Medicare and Medicaid, for all federal employees and contractors and for the staffs of Head Start programs, Department of Defense Schools and Bureau of Indian Education-operated schools.  All members of the Armed Forces are required to get vaccinated.

Regarding the private sector and the public, The Department of Labor’s Occupational Safety and Health Administration is developing a rule requiring all employers with at least 100 employees to make sure their workforce is fully vaccinated or require unvaccinated workers to get a negative test at least once a week. OSHA will issue an “Emergency Temporary Standard” to introduce the vaccine requirement. Companies that fail to comply could face fines of $14,000 per violation.  It appears the orders may include exceptions for workers seeking religious or medical exemptions from vaccination.  The new vaccination requirements could apply to as many as 100 million Americans — close to two-thirds of the American workforce.

In addition to the vaccination requirements, President Biden moved to double federal fines for airline passengers who refuse to wear masks on flights or to maintain face-covering requirements on federal property.

Many organizations across the nation have already announced their concerns in relation to the President’s announcement.  The American Federation of Government Employees, the largest federal employee union, is taking issue with the mandatory vaccine requirement.  Further, the Republican National Committee announced that it plans to file a lawsuit against the Biden administration regarding the new vaccine requirements.  Across the nation, Governors of many states have announced that they also take issue with new mandates.

The Camden County Commissioners are united in their concerns about the new federal vaccine mandates.  Early this year, on January 28th, 2021, the Commission voted to rescind a prior ordinance (Ordinance 1-14-21-01) requiring food industry workers to get a hepatitis A vaccination, leaving that decision to employers.  The same day, the Commission passed an ordinance (Ordinance 01-28-21-01) recognizing and reasserting several God-given rights possessed by all Americans; including:

“6. The citizens of Camden County are aware of their own underlying health risk factors better than the government and can reject any unduly forced vaccinations; and

  1. That unless required by law, individuals have the right to refuse directives or recommendations to take any drugs or medications for the prevention or treatment of any condition, illness or disease and
  2. A state of emergency that operates in perpetuity can be considered by some a state of tyranny”

Similarly, unlike a large number of counties across the United States, the Camden County Commission has refused to pass any ordinance requiring face masks in schools, public places or places of employment, being of the opinion that this would represent an over-reach of government authority.

 

***More from Governor Mike Parson on the Vaccines:

Governor Mike Parson says that his administration will reject the Biden Administration’s attempt to enforce an unconstitutional, federal vaccine mandate for Missourians and private businesses. The Office of the Governor has been in communication with leadership from the Missouri General Assembly and the Attorney General’s Office to align resources for a pending legal fight. 

“This assault on individual liberty and free enterprise is a poorly executed attempt by the Biden Administration to reset after its disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan,” Governor Parson said. “With our southern border in crisis and as we are experiencing out-of-control inflation, President Biden is desperate to divert attention from his failures. However, Missouri will not be a pawn in this publicity stunt that seeks to force Missourians to disclose private health care decisions and dictate private business operations.”

Yesterday, during a speech at the White House, President Biden announced plans to use the Occupational Safety and Health Admisntration (OSHA) to issue an unconstitutional vaccine mandate for private employers. This action would infringe on Missouri’s constitutional authority and exceeds the scope of the authority granted to either President Biden or OSHA. The President cannot legislate with the flick of his pen from the Oval Office and OSHA cannot dictate personal health care decisions for Missourians. Missouri is not under an OSHA state plan, and Governor Parson will not allow state employees to be used to enforce this unconstitutional action.

The United States Constitution does not give unelected and unaccountable federal bureaucrats authority over the personal health care decisions of Missourians. The Biden Administration is trying to use a federal agency to interfere with private businesses and personal decisions. This unconstitutional behavior is clearly meant as a distraction from the real problems the Biden administration has fostered since coming into office.

“When President Biden should be focused on protecting our troops and securing our borders, he has instead decided to inject himself into the private lives and business dealings of hard-working Missourians,” said Speaker Rob Vescovo. “This is an obvious attempt by the President to shift attention away from his failures in Afghanistan where his disastrous withdrawal left American citizens behind. We in the Missouri House of Representatives will not stand for it, and we will do everything in our power to protect the personal liberties of Missourians.”

The United States Supreme Court has said that states, not the federal government, are charged with the responsibility to protect public health within states under the 10th Amendment to the United States Constitution. Governor Parson believes the regulation of public health is a state issue and that the General Assembly has a say in the process.

“As a small business owner who would be subjugated to President Biden’s unconstitutional mandate, I, nor the Missouri Senate, will stand idly by and allow this inexcusable power grab to harm Missourians,” said President Pro-Tem Dave Schatz. “What the Biden Administration is attempting to do will only worsen the workforce shortages businesses across the country are facing and is an absolute affront to our American freedoms.”

Missouri stands ready to meet this unconstitutional encroachment of power with strong legal action. 

More Missouri COVID 19 Vaccine VIP Winners Announced

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More winners are being announced in Missouri Covid 19 Vaccine VIP program.

180 winners were chosen this round to receive $10,000 across the state.

Those winners include Susan Zink and Judy Shulte in Miller County, Jocelyn Bryan and Teresa Clark in Laclede County, Matthew Dunegan of Pulaski County,

Previous winners include Rian Cerny in Camden County, Jessie Detherage and John Herron in Laclede County and Adam Howe in Benton County.

Thomas Orozco of Montreal is still the only local scholarship winner and he will receive $10,000 towards an education savings account.

You can learn more about the VIP program here: https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/win/vips/#winners

Reaction To President Biden’s COVID Mandate Met With Hard Push-back In The Ozarks

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Reaction to President Biden’s vaccine mandate is being met with harsh push-back in the Lake of the Ozarks region.

In separate interviews on KRMS, both Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer and Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler say the request “infringes” on the rights and freedoms of the citizens of Missouri.

“This is so over the top, this is so….tyrannical in the way they are doing this” says Lake Area Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer of Missouri’s 3rd Congressional District, “They’re going to intimidate a lot of small businesses to get everyone vaccinated. To mandate that is way out of line…we’re going to take this to court and I think they’re going to lose.”

“Well it’s draconian and it’s unconstitutional” says Lake Area Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler of Missouri’s 4th Congressional District,“I never thought I would see a day, in our country, where the Government would be forcing citizens to do something (a medical procedure) and these mandates are just out of line. They’re UN-American and they have to be opposed.”

At the Camden County Commission, one commissioner agrees.

In a post to Facebook, 1st district commissioner James Gohagan says he will never vote to “force” residents to put anything in their bodies and that he will vote “no” on any such requirement for the district and county employees.

“Citizens of Camden County, I will never agree to force you to put anything into your body against your will, that applies for county employees as well. My vote will always be no.” says Gohagan.

That sentiment is being echoed by leaders throughout Missouri who also say the President is stepping over a line that “should never be crossed.”

MO School Board Director Questions Decisions Made By MO AG

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The Executive Director of the Missouri School Board Association is questioning the decisions made by State Attorney General Eric Schmitt.

It follows Schmitt’s decision to sue the Columbia Public School District, and any K-12 public school requiring masks mandates, such as Richland R-IV just implemented.

Director Melissa Randol says the information he is citing about the mandates were done before the delta variant ever existed, and that some of the studies weren’t even conducted in the United States.

In the lawsuits, AG Schmitt stays the mask mandates “flies in the face of science” and that children are at a “low risk” of transmission.

Randol says she isn’t advocating for mandates, but rather for health experts to guide schools in their own local safety measures.

New Law Permanently Allows To-Go Cocktail Sales

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A new law in effect now in Missouri allows restaurants to sell to-go cocktails.

The state had temporarily allowed restaurants to serve alcohol to go during the pandemic, but that is now permanent.

Alcohol can be served with food in a sealed container that’ll discourage drinking and driving.

Booz can also be sold from 6 am Sunday through 1:30 Monday morning, the same hours as the rest of the week.

Before the new liquor law went into effect, alcohol sales were limited to 9 am Sunday morning to midnight.

 

****More info:

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Aug. 24, 2021

New Missouri ‘to-go’ alcohol sales law takes effect Aug. 28

Senate Bill 126 also extends hours for alcohol sales on Sundays to between 6 a.m. Sunday and 1:30 a.m. Monday

JEFFERSON CITY – The waiver that allowed Missouri restaurants to sell “to-go” alcoholic drinks beginning on April 14, 2020, in response to the coronavirus pandemic, will become permanent when Senate Bill 126<https://www.senate.mo.gov/21info/pdf-bill/tat/SB126.pdf> takes effect on Aug. 28. The administrative waiver was granted because many restaurants were severely strained as business dropped off or shifted to take out during 2020. In Missouri, unless they contain an emergency provision, most new laws take effect on Aug. 28.

Before the waiver, to-go alcohol had to be sold in its original package. The new law means that mixed drinks can be sold for off-premises consumption provided:

·         The alcohol container is durable, leak-proof, and sealable, and does not exceed 128 ounces;

·         The customer must have ordered and purchased a meal simultaneous with the liquor purchase;

·         No more than two alcohol drinks may be sold per meal serving;

·         The licensee must provide a dated receipt for the meal and alcohol beverage(s); and

·         The sealed alcohol container must either be:

o   Placed in a one-time-use, tamperproof, transparent bag which must be securely sealed, or;

o   The container opening must be sealed with tamperproof tape.

The law does not allow liquor licensees to sell mixed drinks in typical “to-go” cups or other containers having a lid with a sipping hole or an opening for straws.

Senate Bill 126 also extends the hours during which alcohol can be sold by the drink and at package stores on Sundays. Liquor licensees permitted to make Sunday sales will legally be able to sell alcohol from 6 a.m. Sunday until 1:30 a.m. Monday, the same hours that apply during the rest of the week.

2021-08-24 New Missouri to-go alcohol sales law takes effect Aug. 28

Lebanon R3 Schools Clarifies It’s COVID Protocols

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The Lebanon R-3 School District is clarifying its policy on COVID protocols.

But the policy includes no mask mandates.

“The adjustment that we’ve made to our practice is that staff and students can choose to wear a mask, if they are vaccinated, or if they have had COVID in the past 3 months, they won’t have to quarantine if they are not symptomatic” Says Assistant Superintendent Dr. Laura O’Quinn.

She tells KRMS News that the priority for Lebanon R-3 is to keep kids in school while also giving parents and students options moving ahead.

MO COVID 19 State Of Emergency Enacted In March 2020 Ends After New One Takes It’s Place

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As one State of Emergency for the Show Me State comes to an end, another takes it place.

Governor Mike Parson officially ending the original State of Emergency on Friday, after it had been in effect since March 13, 2020.

However Parson issued Executive Order 21-09 short after, a more targeted State of Emergency declaration acknowledging the continued needs of Missouri’s health care system.

This new State of Emergency invokes the Governor’s emergency powers and activates the Missouri National Guard for continued mission support in recovery operations, if needed.

The order also keeps in place telehealth, and it allows state agencies to request waiver of certain statutory and regulatory requirements that would otherwise hinder the state’s response to ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

Read more below:

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson terminated Executive Order 20-02 ending the State of Emergency that had been in effect since March 13, 2020. 

“In the nearly 18 months we operated under this Executive Order, we have responded to the COVID-19 crisis by providing unprecedented levels of resources and support,” Governor Parson said. “This Order enabled us to respond to the unknown and everchanging needs of our state. Now, we know how to fight this virus and have a solution to ending the pandemic with the vaccine. Today, we are terminating this order as our situation no longer demands an expansive emergency declaration.” 

Upon the termination of Executive Order 20-02, Governor Parson issued Executive Order 21-09, which represents a more targeted State of Emergency declaration that acknowledges the continued needs of Missouri’s health care system. While Missouri’s economy has improved, the health care system is still experiencing strain due to current staffing shortages being exacerbated by COVID-19.

Executive Order 21-09 invokes the Governor’s emergency powers pursuant to Section 44.100 and activates the Missouri National Guard for continued mission support in recovery operations, if needed. The order also keeps in place provisions related to remote notary services and telehealth, and it allows state agencies to request waiver of certain statutory and regulatory requirements that would otherwise hinder the state’s response to ongoing COVID-19 challenges.

Any statutory or regulatory waiver approved under Executive Order 20-02 that is still in effect as of the date of the new order will remain in place. Approval of any new waivers will be aimed at supporting Missouri’s health care system and response to COVID-19. New requests will be subject to approval from the Governor’s Office.

Under the new order and as part of the transition process from the previous order, the state has significantly scaled back the number of waivers in effect. At the peak, more than 600 statutory and regulatory waivers were in place; however, only 163 waivers remain in effect under the new order. Many of the remaining waivers are implemented by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. The remaining waivers were found to be necessary to support the health care system, provide regulatory flexibility, and ensure the state remains federally compliant.

“We have always taken a balanced approach in our response to COVID-19, and this new order demonstrates the progress we have made in fighting this virus,” Governor Parson said. “Like all Missourians, we want this crisis to end and to close this chapter. However, while we are shifting our operations, we must maintain flexibility to aid our health care system and adapt to the challenges we face.”

“We are returning to normal, but we must continue providing needed resources and support while more Missourians choose COVID-19 vaccination and are protected from serious illness,” Governor Parson continued. 

Executive Order 21-09 will terminate on December 31, 2021. To view the order, click here or see attachment. 

Executive Order 21-09

Richland High School Requests Masks Back In Class

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A Lake area school is heading back to class with Masks.

Officials in the Richland School High School are putting the requirements back in place, after more than 20% of students and staff were required to quarantine after coming in contact with an infected individual.

Officials at Lebanon R-3 recently agreed to allow masks in school, but they remain optional for staff and students.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt has vowed to sue any school district that institutes a mask mandate, even if cases are spreading at high rate.

***Editors note: This story was edited to remove a statement that Lebanon R3 Schools is requiring masks….the masks are “optional” for staff and students in the district, not required.

Several Lake Area Residents Win In MO COVID Vaccine Lottery

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Several area residents are picking up cash and scholarships in the first round of the Missouri COVID 19 vaccine lottery.

According to the state, Rian Cerny of Roach, Jessie Detherage of Phillipsburg, John Herron of Lebanon and Adam Howe of Warsaw all picked up a $10,000 Cash Prize.

Thomas Orozco of Montreal was the only local scholarship winner and he will receive $10,000 towards an education savings account.

Officials say the state will award 900 individuals throughout the incentive program, which will end with a final drawing in October.

Solders At Fort Leonard Wood And Other Bases To Be Required To Take COVID Vaccine

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If you’re unvaccinated and you’re serving at Fort Leonard Wood, you will soon be required to take the COVID vaccine.

With the FDA’s stamp of approval on the Pfizer vaccine, Pentagon officials say they are going ahead with a plan to require all active-duty military personnel to receive the shot.

A Pentagon spokesman said Monday that guidance is being developed and a timeline will be provided in the coming days.

Officials with Fort Leonard Wood expect that to begin within the next few weeks.

Mayor Of Lake Ozark Advocates For Alternative COVID 19 Medicine

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The Mayor of Lake Ozark is calling it a ‘Hail Mary’ while taking an alternative medication to a friend hospitalized with COVID-19.

On a post since deleted off of Dennis Newberry’s Mayoral Facebook Page, he says he’s procured an unknown amount of the drug ‘ivermectin’ (Eye-ver-meh-ctin), and he’s taking it to a Central Missouri hospital in hopes the medical staff will administer the drug.

The mayor says in the post if he does nothing, his friend will die and he asks for prayers and support in the comment section.

KRMS News is reaching out to the Mayor to learn more about why Newberry is choosing ‘ivermectin’ for his friend, who keeps a boat at a Lake Ozark marina but lives in Cuba, Missouri.

We’ll pass along more details when possible on KRMS.

 

Here are some screen shots of the post and comments before it was taken down.

Camdenton School Board Rejects Over $8 Million In Federal COVID Funds

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Over $8 million dollars in Federal COVID relief funds are being rejected by the Camdenton School Board.

In a special session Tuesday night, school board officials gathered to discuss whether or not to accept the money, with a majority voting no….making it 4 no and 2 yes votes.

Many stated that the strings attached to the money were too much to bear for the school district and that they’ve already planned out money for other projects before it was offered.

You can watch the full meeting below:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bRE2Hq7gwrA

 

Osage Beach Sees Significant Increase In Sales Tax Revenue

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Osage Beach is reporting an increase in sales tax collections as summer winds down.

“We’re about 22 1/2%, we’re about 18% up from where we foretasted, so expected a little growth just because of the activity from 2020” says Jenna Woods, City Administrator in Osage Beach,
“That has everything to do with people shopping, activities and events and everything that happened within our city limits. We had a great summer…lot of tourists, a large influx of people.”

She tells KRMS News plans are being made right now for next year’s budget “End of October, maybe early November at the latest…we meet with the board of alderman in several public workshops, which are public meetings, and we present our requests to the board and hopefully we have our budget requests answered by December…so that we can start January 1 with a new budget.”

Woods also says Osage Beach is in line for more than $900-thousand dollars from the American Rescue Plan Act “Part of that act includes relief funds for a lot of jurisdictions. The act outlines that we will get half of the finds when the state first distributes it, and the other half will come 12 months after that.”

Woods was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

Camdenton R3 School Board To Meet Over Federal COVID Relief Funds

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A decision whether or not to accept more Federal COVID Relief funds for Camdenton R-3 Schools will be looked at tonight during a special session for the school board.

Officials say they will meet at 6PM at the Administration Building and the meeting will be streamed live.

You can find the agenda for the meeting below:

Fiscal-Guidance-for-ESSER-III-Final

Food Stamp Benefits Raised By 25% For Residents Nationwide

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Residents who receive snap benefits are getting a permanent 25% increase.

President Biden approving the increase, which will start in October, the largest increase in the program’s history.

The boost is part of the USDA’s Thrifty Food Plan, which will boost the per-person pay from $121 to $157 a month.

The move comes as activists across the nation were pushing for higher snap benefits because the cost of healthier foods was rising faster than poorer families could keep up with.

Mid-County Fire Says Calls For Service Keep Rising

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The higher numbers of visitors to Lake of this Ozarks not only means higher call loads for local law enforcement but it’s also keeping Lake Area fire districts hopping.

Mid-County Fire Chief Scott Frandsen says the number of responses has been very steady so far this summer “We’re running 5, 6 even 7 calls a day….routinely”.

Frandsen also tells KRMS News that the ongoing pandemic is also contributing to the higher call loads which he doesn’t see slowing down anytime soon “Most of the medical calls we respond to are usually COVID related, and that’s very taxing on our folks. So yeah, this is shaping up to be a very interesting summer.”

The Mid-County Fire District is coming off 217 calls for service in July and, overall, is currently more than 180 calls overall ahead of last year at the same time.

More Lake Area Schools Say “No” To Masks In Class As Of Today

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With the start of the upcoming school year now under two weeks away, districts across the Lake Area continue to look at the possibility of having to mask up.

In the Macks Creek District, Superintendent Josh Phillips says it’ll be business as usual “Because of small numbers and because of our departmentalization, we didn’t have the prevalence of spread they saw in other areas. No community here spread here since last school year. So, since that worked so well…that’s how we will start this school year.”

Phillips also says concerns over a lack of social distancing on buses was an issue which worked itself out “In normal times kids crowd into seats and visit with their buddies…so we were cautious. But, with people exercising our car rider options…that freed up a lot of space.”

Should the health department issue any recommendations on mask wearing or other Covid protocol, that is when Phillips says the district will consider implementing any changes.

Earlier this week both School of the Osage and St. Elizabeth R-4 said they too will not require masks, unless directed to do so.

That’s a stark contrast to other cities outside the lake, like Springfield and St. Louis, where mask mandates will be returning for students in most of their area school districts.

School Districts In The Lake Area Say No Mask Requirements Just Yet

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School Districts across the Lake Area are busy with back-to-school registrations, but officials are also keeping a close eye on the COVID 19 Delta Variant and the possibility of any mask mandates being ordered.

In School of the Osage District, Superintendent Dr. Laura Nelson says there are no changes anticipated when the kids return to the hallways this year “They are optional this year as they were last year, but we will continue to make sure we are a welcoming environment around that and we will continue to stay in touch with our local health departments.”

In the St. Elizabeth District, Superintendent Doug Kempker says there is a call by some for the district to implement a mask mandate “There is a little bit of a, I don’t want to say an outcry, but there are a group of parents that are for masking our students when they come back. Several of those work in the health field, but at this time we are going to start without masks.”

KRMS is awaiting a reply from other districts in the Lake area.

At this time, there are no statewide health mandates in effect, with the decision of requiring masks in school being left at the discretion of local boards of education.

The CDC is however recommending that masks be worn on school buses.

Masks Required At Springfield Area Schools – No Word On Lake Schools Yet

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Students in the Lake Area haven’t been told if they’ll be wearing masks again or not, but in the Southern Part of the Ozarks that decision has already been made.

Springfield’s largest school district will be requiring students and staff to start the new school year wearing masks.

Districts in St. Louis County and all Illinois schools are also being ordered to follow suit.

One elementary school administrator tells CBS News, it’s the right choice in his opinion “I don’t want a 10 year old getting sick. I don’t want an outbreak.”

Kansas City reinstated a mandate for the entire city requiring masks be worn in all indoor spaces where 6ft cannot be maintained.

Two days after it went into effect, the state’s attorney general sued the city and mayor Lucas, in part claiming he didn’t have the power to make this decision.

Officials say the state is responding to the latest surge by deploying ambulances statewide, and they’ll transport infected patients to other regions if nearby hospitals are too full to admit them.

 

NBC News Does National Story On Lake Of The Ozarks

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NBC News is showcasing the Lake Region as tourism continues to flourish in the wake of COVID 19.

In a video aired on the network, a reporter ask residents what they think about the community and the way it’s handling the COVID 19 Pandemic.

“Oh, I feel comfortable. I’ve never been vaccinated….I think a lot of it is BS” says one man, “If you’re not comfortable with a mask, then don’t wear a mask. If you’re comfortable with a mask, then mask up. I think it’s your choice, not the Government’s choice” says one woman.

You can see the full video below, and on our social media channels.

Motorcycle Riders Arrive In Lebanon To Honor Officer Blackburn

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Numerous motorcycle riders making their way through the Lake Area into Lebanon today are honoring the life of Lebanon Police Officer Kendle Blackburn.

The group called “Beyond the Call of Duty – End of Watch Ride” visited the Cowan Civic Center, pulling a 41-foot trailer, which showcases officers who’ve lost their lives across the United States.

Officer Blackburn died as a result of COVID 19 during the height of the Pandemic.

The group started the ride in the state of Washington and are making their way across the US on a 22,000-mile ride.

The riders will be heading west Towards Kansas for their next stop.

NBC TV In The Lake Area – Officials Say They’re Doing A “Story”

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It could be another record-breaking year for tourism in Lake of the Ozarks, despite reported concerns about the pandemic around the U-S.

And some people think coverage in the national media is helping to drive that tourism in the Lake Area.

KRMS News can confirm NBC is working on a story about Lake of the Ozarks , but specific details are not known right now.

And the national attention’s nothing new for Lake of the Ozarks.

In 2020, TMZ published one video shot at a Lake Area pool bar over Memorial Day weekend, and the national coverage was critical because there didn’t appear to be any social distancing happening in a sunlit, chlorinated swimming pool packed with younger visitors.

Camden County Sheriff Tony Helms and former Lake Ozark Mayor Gerry Murawski were also featured in national news stories about how the Lake Area was remaining open and thriving during COVID concerns.

Lake Regional Experiencing Surge In COVID Patients – Says They’re “Fighting Back”

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COVID cases are rising across Show Me State and here in the Lake area once again, but medical officials across the Lake say they’re fighting back.

At Lake Regional Health System, Chief Medical Officer Dr. Harbaksh Sangha says they’re fighting back against their fourth surge “The I. C. U. Is busier than it ever has been. 40% are far inpatient, the census is COVID.”

When asked what it does to the staff who are struggling in the battle, Sangha says “It’s demoralizing basically….To see that level of sickness in those many deaths.”

Last week they tied their highest number of COVID patients since November of 2020, roughly half of July’s patients were under the age of 59, nearly all unvaccinated.

Just over 40 percent of Missourians are fully vaccinated.

The state’s daily death rate has more than tripled in the past two weeks.

Over a month ago, Lake Regional’s CEO released this “Letter to the community” about the ongoing situation.

 

To Our Community:

 

Things are bad.

We are experiencing a spike in COVID-19 deaths in our community. Six COVID patients have died in our hospital just since July 1.* By comparison, six COVID patients died in all of June, and only one COVID-related death occurred in May.

 

And, they are about to get worse.

The state health department in coordination with the CDC issued a COVID Hotspot Advisory yesterday saying it expects a surge in the Lake of the Ozarks area. According to the advisory, “forecasted rates in Miller, Morgan and Camden counties could be 3 or more times higher in the coming weeks” due to low vaccination rates. Laclede and Pulaski counties are also noted as high transmission areas by the CDC. Therefore, we have every reason to expect the same viral growth in those communities.

 

This advisory comes on the heels of surging cases and hospitalizations in Southwest Missouri, attributed to the Delta variant. Health experts say the Delta variant appears to spread more easily and poses a higher risk of hospitalization than prior strains. In Springfield, hospitals also report treating younger patients than in previous waves.

At Lake Regional, we are already stretched to the limit. Our hospital is very near capacity, and we are seeing exceptionally high numbers of Emergency Department patients daily. Our care teams are working harder than ever before as COVID strains our facility, already busy with summer visitors and routine patient care.

I’m so proud of the courageous work our doctors, nurses and respiratory therapists are doing, as well as all those who are behind the scenes supporting them. But, I worry about the toll all of this is taking on our employees, both physically and mentally. They are exhausted, and no end is in sight.

 

I’m also very worried about the decisions we will face if COVID cases surge, as expected. Hospitals all around us are filling up, too. That means none of us have a safety valve. Like Springfield hospitals, we’ll be forced to look outside mid-Missouri for help.

 

Please, roll up your sleeves.

To be completely blunt: We need you to get vaccinated now. If you haven’t already, please roll up your sleeve. Do it to protect yourself, your family and this community.

COVID-19 vaccines are safe, free and readily available. Most importantly, they are the best protection against hospitalization and death.

According to a recent Fox News report, the CDC found over the past six months “99.5% of people who died of COVID-19 were unvaccinated.”

Lake Regional Health System offers weekday vaccination appointments at its seven primary care locations. You do not have to be an established patient to schedule a free vaccination. County health departments, Central Ozarks Medical Center and the area’s retail pharmacies also offer COVID-19 vaccinations.

 

To learn more about the vaccine’s efficacy or safety, please visit lakeregional.com/vaccine.

 Let’s move forward together.

 

Our Commitment Runs Deep,

 

Dane W. Henry, FACHE

CEO, Lake Regional Health System

 

*Lake Regional has admitted 18 COVID-positive patients since July 1. Sixty-one COVID-positive patients were admitted in June. COVID inpatient stays are often lengthy and may extend across one or more months. So far in July, Lake Regional has averaged 21 COVID-positive inpatients daily, or 25% of our total inpatient census.  

New State Law On COVID Pandemic To Take Affect This August

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A new law relating to the coronavirus pandemic in Missouri is set to take effect.

Senate Bill 51 & 42 became a priority early on during this year’s regular legislative session.

Senator Tony Luetkemeyer of Parkville is the sponsor, and says this new law will address certain civil actions arising from the COVID-19 pandemic “It protects all those entities from opportunistic lawsuits. Those companies or entities, who were acting on good faith, are protected under the bill to make sure they’re not sued.”

Senator Karla May of St. Louis says some Missouri senators have concerns with this new law “that may cause someone to inadvertently be impacted by COVID 19.”

Another aspect of this new law protects religious organizations and medical professionals from liability, unless a plaintiff can prove clear and convincing evidence.

Senate Bill 51 & 42 will become law on Aug. 28.

MO Attorney General Files Lawsuit In KC Against Mask Mandates

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Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmitt now has a lawsuit filed against Kansas City over mask mandates he says are ‘unreasonable and unconstitutional.’

The suit was filed Tuesday in Jackson County.

The AG is asking the court to get rid of the mask mandates in favor of appropriate guidance.

But the lawsuit also targets Kansas City mayor Quinton Lucas.

The suit argues Lucas said July 25 no mask mandates were needed, but then he changed his mind three days later.

Schmitt sued St. Louis and St. Louis County in July over their new mask mandates, and a circuit judge put the policy on hold for at least two weeks.

Parson Calls STL Mask Mandate A Step In The Wrong Direction

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Missouri Governor Mike Parson is responding on Twitter to more mask mandates in both St. Louis and St. Louis County.

Parson says dictating mask mandates while the vaccine’s available is ignoring the real solution and ending public trust.

Parson added that from the very beginning of the pandemic, he’s recognized the importance of local control, but re-imposing mask mandates regardless of vaccine status is WRONG and goes against current C-D-C guidelines.

Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmidt said Monday he’s filing a lawsuit against the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County to stop the mask mandates.

Mask Mandates Return In St. Louis – MO AG Sues To Stop Them

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There are no mask mandates in Lake of the Ozarks, but nearby St. Louis is reverting back to the policy.

But Missouri Attorney General Eric Schmidt is filing a lawsuit to put a stop to it.

Schmidt says in a release he’s filing a lawsuit against both the City of St. Louis and St. Louis County.

Schmidt also said on Twitter the people of that area are people, not subjects.

Officials in the St. Louis area say the masks are being called back because they say COVID cases are on the rise again.

They want everyone over the age of 5 to wear masks whether they’ve had the vaccine or not.

We’ll keep you posted on this developing story on News / Talk KRMS.

New School Year Guidance From DHSS Doesn’t Include Masks

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The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) is releasing guidance for schools for the coming school year.

According to the guidance, school districts should prioritize COVID-19 prevention strategies to keep students in-person, but there are no statewide health mandates related to K-12 schools reopening and operating.

The new guidance also isn’t recommending that schools require masks for students, however, it notes that “policies regarding masks should be made at the discretion of the local boards of education.”

The CDC is recommending that schools maintain at least 3 feet of physical distance between students within classrooms and wearing masks on school buses.

dhss schools

Maries County Sheriff Gets COVID 19

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The Sheriff of Maries County says he has COVID 19.

In a post to Facebook, Sheriff Chris Heitman says he did get his COVID 19 vaccine, one in February and another in March.

He reports that a number of his staff is also out due to COVID 19 cases.

Heitman says he is feeling extreme fatigue, body aches, chills, fever and congestion, but he intends to make a full recovery.

****From the Sheriff:

As many of you heard I was diagnosed with COVID the other day. This occurred even after getting my vaccine in February and March. I made the choice to get the vaccine because the amount of people I help or come in contact with on a daily basis. I would feel terrible if I had an opportunity to reduce the chance of my giving this virus to the public and didn’t take it.
My symptoms after the first vaccine shot were: slight fatigue, little joint ache, just didn’t feel the best. Which were just like my symptoms yesterday. My symptoms with my second vaccine shot were: major fatigue, severe joint ache, chills, fever, congestion, and just felt terrible. Which are just like my symptoms last night, with some shortness of breath and cough.
I’ve had a lot of people say; see the vaccine doesn’t work, you were sick the first time for no reason. Ultimately, no one knows for sure, and the vaccine may not be as effective as they first thought.
However, based on the research, and advise from our local medical professionals (one being Cindy Butler), who I trust more than our federal medical advisory boards. I do still believe the vaccine is effective to a degree, and I still encourage everyone to get vaccinated. “Encourage” is the key work. I will never support nor enforce any mask or vaccine mandate laws. My primary obligation is to our constitution and your freedoms it provides. Your freedom to be able to choose what you want to do with your health and the health of your loved ones. If you choose to wear a mask or not to wear a mask, I support it! If you choose to get or not get the vaccine, I support that too.
You have the right to make a choice, and that is what I support.
God bless all the men & women who provided us that right and to the ones still fighting for those rights today.
Some of my staff is also currently out with COVID and they seem to be doing well. Let’s pray for their speedy recovery.
I expect to make a full recovery by next week and will see everyone soon.
Thank you for your continued support.
Your Sheriff,
Chris Heitman

Fort Leonard Wood Changes Mask Policies As COVID Cases Rise Across Missouri

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Officials, on-duty personnel and civilians are having to return to wearing masks at Fort Leonard Wood.

In a statement issued by the Fort, officials say they’re requiring masks to be worn at all correctional facilities and healthcare settings, regardless of vaccination status.

Those who are not fully vaccinated must also wear masks while in any building on the Fort, except when alone in an enclosed room.

More details on the new rules can be found below:

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. ― As leaders here continually assess the COVID-19 environment and conditions, the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general has updated guidance and policies regarding the installation’s COVID-19 control measures.

Beginning July 22, General Order No.1, signed by Maj. Gen. James Bonner, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, is in effect.

Updates and changes under General Order No. 1, which applies to all military personnel on post as well as government personnel and contractors while performing duties on post, include:

― All individuals, regardless of vaccination status, must wear a mask in correctional facilities and healthcare settings, including all DoD military medical, dental and veterinary treatment facilities.

― All individuals who have not been fully vaccinated must wear masks continuously while in any building on Fort Leonard Wood except when the individual is alone in an office with floor-to-ceiling walls and with a closed door, or for brief periods of time when eating and drinking while maintaining distancing in accordance with Centers of Disease Control and Prevention guidelines. This also applies to all unvaccinated personnel, regardless of whether or not they have been infected with COVID-19 in the past.

― Individuals must adhere to specific CDC guidelines on how to wear a mask correctly. Different types of masks for different circumstances may be found at: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/your-health/effective-masks.html.

― In accordance with updated CDC guidelines, fully vaccinated DoD personnel (two weeks beyond final dose) are not required to wear a mask indoors or outdoors at Fort Leonard Wood facilities, unless otherwise required by the facility.

― In line with DoD’s “Force Health Protection Guidance,” unmasked, fully vaccinated service members should be prepared to show proof of vaccination in the form of CDC vaccination card in hard copy or on a mobile device, or other medical documentation.

― All personnel, service member or civilian, regardless of vaccination status, riding in or on a government vehicle must wear an approved mask.

― Service members and civilian employees who misrepresent their vaccination status may be subject to adverse administrative or punitive actions, according to DoD guidance.

― All service members, regardless of vaccination status, are required to carry an approved mask at all times for use as necessary.

― Effective July 19, trainees and students arriving to the 43rd Adjutant General Battalion and/or respective professional military education/initial military training, must be fully vaccinated in order to invite guests to their family day activities and/or graduation ceremonies. Individuals arriving at 43rd AG BN will be briefed of this requirement while at reception and afforded the opportunity to receive a vaccination.

For more information on Fort Leonard Wood’s COVID-19 response, visit https://home.army.mil/wood/index.php/coronavirus.

Congresswoman Hartzler Snaps Back At “Door-To-Door” COVID Campaign

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One elected official representing part of the Lake Area in the U-S House is reacting to a White house plan to send Federal officials on a ‘door-to-door’ campaign to push COVID shots.

“I think that’s inappropriate. The vaccine is out, people know it’s available and they should have the option to go and receive it if they want. But if they don’t, they shouldn’t be hounded by Government agents at their front door” says Congresswoman Vicky Hartzler, “I think everybody should know by now that if they want it, they can get it, and I think it’s a waste of money to spend towards sending Government agents door-to-door.”

She tells KRMS News more than $1 billion dollars have already been spent by Democrats to promote the COVID shots manufactured by Pfizer, Maderna and Johnson and Johnson “there was even money in some of the Democrat’s COVID packages, over $1 Billion dollars, to help promote people receiving the vaccination and advertising that. So we’ve already spent a billion dollars on that!”

Hartzler also says the U-S is now seeing record numbers of people coming into the country from Mexico and the Americas after the Biden Administration rolled back many of President Donald Trump’s border policies.

Hartzler was a guest on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

Representative Luetkemeyer Calls Out Origins Of COVID 19

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Health officials say cases of COVID are increasing in the Lake Area and parts of Missouri, but one elected official in the U-S House is wondering where the virus came from.

“I think it does matter….and I think it’s being lost in the shuffle on purpose” says Missouri Rep Blaine Luetkemeyer.

He tells KRMS News he was on a COVID Committee for about a year, and he was pushing the director to investigate where COVID-19 came from “he refused to do that, and as a result we never really got into it.”

Luetkemeyer says evidence over the last several months shows COVID-19 likely came from a lab as opposed to animals.

He says some of the evidence comes from scientific research of the virus and also from some people who have defected from China.

Congressman Luetkemeyer was interviewed by Christian Blood on the KRMS Morning Magazine.

 

***More from Blaine’s Bulletin:

To say a lot has changed since the very beginning of the pandemic when reports of a mystery virus started affecting people in Wuhan, China began would be an understatement of epic proportion. The coronavirus shut down nearly the entire world and caused billions of people to live in fear of a virus we knew very little about. And while the world struggled to handle this virus that has since claimed 3.8 million lives, China continued to mislead other countries about the severity and reality of the situation. Who knows how many lives could have been saved had they been open and honest about COVID-19? But instead of acting in the best interest of mankind, they did everything in their power to conceal the origins and spread of the virus. The Chinese government led propaganda campaigns to try and blame the virus on other countries, ours included. They expelled American journalists who were looking for answers from their country. They silenced whistleblowers, researchers and physicians. One of the first Chinese scientists to speak openly about the virus was jailed and later died. China must be held accountable for its deceit, recklessness, and disregard for the entire world, and many of my colleagues and I are calling for action.

In some ways it seems like a decade ago when President Trump restricted travel from China followed by his decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO). At the time, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) was downplaying the threat and very few cases had come to the U.S. The WHO refused to adequately investigate and enabled China’s coverup as a virus – that more and more evidence suggests leaked from a lab in their country – spread across the world taking millions of innocent lives. The decision to stop sending U.S. taxpayer dollars to the organization that was no longer serving our country, or the world for that matter, and helped the CCP keep the origins of the virus a secret was a no-brainer. Why pay someone millions to undermine us? Unfortunately, despite the fact that the WHO continues to pander to the CCP, President Biden immediately rejoined the WHO once he took office as part of his commitment to undo as many Trump Administration actions he could, regardless of the consequences.

A year ago, suggestions that the virus came from anything other than a bat were scoffed at and suggestions of Chinese accountability were deemed racist. Last year, as a member of the Select Committee on the Coronavirus Crises last year I made repeated requests for the committee to investigate the origin of the virus and call China to account. The Chairman of the Committee actually said that was not within our jurisdiction. Seriously, the Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus refused to investigate the origins of the Coronavirus. Shortly after that, the committee held a hearing voting by mail…

Now, report after report are forcing even the most reluctant among us to pay attention. American intelligence sources have recently reported that three researchers in the Wuhan Institute of Virology were hospitalized in November 2019, an entire month before the Chinese government publicly reported the existence of COVID-19. Millions of families across the world lost loved ones, the economies of nearly every country were brought to a standstill, countless children are now a year behind in their education, and we still have not received any viable explanations from the CCP on the virus’s origin.  China’s complete lack of transparency is nothing new, but this time it has affected the entire world. Last month, House Republicans sent a letter to Speaker Pelosi urging her to join us in our calls for an investigation into the CCP’s handling of the COVID-19 crisis and to bring this matter before the appropriate committees in Congress. The evidence continues to mount against the wet market theory, but the WHO is maintaining what appears to be its “China First” policy. This is a great opportunity for all members of Congress and the Administration to join an effort that only helps America. As the people elected to represent the American people – and only the American people – agreement of factfinding and Chinese accountability should be effortless. Many of my colleagues and I are ready to work with intelligence officials to finally get some concrete facts and force China to answer for their actions. All we need are willing partners in the Speaker’s chair and the White House.

Missouri Governor Pushes Back On “Door-To-Door” COVID 19 Vaccine Strategy From White House

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In the future, you may find mobile COVID-19 vaccination clinics at festivals, churches and other Lake Area events.

It’s part of a Biden Administration plan to increase participation in the COVID shots.

The campaign will also include ‘door-to-door’ visits in numerous neighborhoods to encourage people to take the shot.

The vaccination campaign could appear where you work or maybe at your primary care doctor’s office.

Right now, around 32-percent of Camden County has taken one of the COVID formulas. Numbers show vaccination rates of around 21-percent in Miller County and just over 26-percent in Morgan County.

Governor Mike Parson says on Facebook he’s told Missouri health officials to advise the Fed that going door-to-door to solicit COVID vaccines won’t be effective or welcomed.

Parson acknowledges that he and his wife have taken the shot and that options for the vaccine are convenient and abundant for those 12 and up who may want it.

COVID 19 Protection Bill Signed Into Law

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Starting August 28th of this year, healthcare providers, manufacturers and businesses in Missouri will have protection against COVID-19 liability.

“The last thing we need to do, is punish anyone for trying to help in a crisis…during the middle of a pandemic” says Governor Mike Parson.

Parson signed the bill into Wednesday morning from the state capitol after thousands of COVID-19-related lawsuits have been filed around Missouri.

Missouri State Senator Tony Luetkmeyer stood next to Governor Mike Parson during one of several signing ceremonies around the state Wednesday “Our small businesses are the backbone of our economy here in the State of Missouri. One of the critically important things is to protect those businesses from frivolous lawsuits, making sure they feel comfortable and confident in re-opening this economy and getting people back to work. That is so important.”

Other areas Luetkmeyer says will need protection include education, churches and frontline healthcare workers.

The Governor’s been supporting the legislation since late 2020 and he also talked about the need for the ‘COVID Protection Bill’ during his State of the State address earlier this year.

Senate Bill 51 passed the Missouri Senate in February.

COVID Surge Response Teams Heading To Missouri

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The White House is announcing they plan to deploy several COVID 19 “Surge Response Teams” across the country, including in Missouri.

Missouri requested the aid last Thursday, shortly after the President announced he was creating the teams to help stop the spread of the new Delta Variant.

The CDC recently reported that the highest number of Delta variants had been detected in southwest Missouri, accounting for nearly two-thirds of all Delta variants in the state.

One of the places recently deemed the biggest hotspots in the nation was Laclede County.

Vaccinations are not moving as fast as Governor Mike Parson had hoped for, with only 44.6% of residents receiving at least one shot.

In over 60 counties in the Show Me State, less than 30% have received their first shot.

St. Mary’s SSM To Require COVID Vaccinations For Staff Before The End Of September

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Employees, providers and volunteers at St. Mary’s Hospital in Jeff City have until the end of September to take a COVID shot.

SSM Health says in a release 240-thousand of its employees have taken a COVID shot since December.

But the company also says employees can request an exemption for either medical or religious reasons.

SSM also has a urgent care facility located here in Lake Ozark.

 

***Additional Info:

ST. LOUIS, MO (June 28, 2021) – As the new, highly contagious Delta variant of the coronavirus spurs another wave of infections throughout the U.S., SSM Health is again urging all eligible individuals to be vaccinated against COVID-19 as quickly as possible.

Despite broad availability of life-saving vaccines, new COVID-19 infections are rising due to the circulating Delta variant coupled with a low vaccination rate. In addition, the annual cold and influenza season is quickly approaching which may lead to a rapid rise in respiratory viral infections.

“These vaccines have been proven to be safe and effective at providing long-lasting immunity to COVID-19,” said Dr. Todd Shuman, MD, SSM Health Chief Medical Officer. “However, we haven’t yet reached a level of vaccination that provides herd immunity, which is why we’re continuing to see dangerous surges in many communities.”

Just seven months ago, SSM Health administered its first COVID-19 vaccine. Since then, the health system has vaccinated close to 240,000 employees and community members. SSM Health will now require all its nearly 40,000 employees, providers and volunteers to be fully vaccinated by the end of September – ahead of the cold/influenza season.

“As health care providers, we’ve seen the devastating impact of this disease first-hand,” said Dr. Shuman. “The fight against COVID-19 is not yet over. We must continue to be vigilant in doing everything we can to protect our team members, patients and communities.”

In announcing the move, SSM Health joins numerous health systems across the country in making the vaccine mandatory.

SSM Health team members can request an exemption for medical or religious reasons, which is consistent with the health ministry’s practice for other required vaccines.

To schedule a vaccine, please visit our site.

###

 

About SSM Health

SSM Health is a Catholic, not-for-profit health system serving the comprehensive health needs of communities across the Midwest through a robust and fully integrated health care delivery system. The organization’s nearly 40,000 employees and 11,000 providers are committed to providing exceptional health care services and revealing God’s healing presence to everyone they serve.

With care delivery sites in Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma and Wisconsin, SSM Health includes 23 hospitals, more than 290 physician offices and other outpatient and virtual care services, 10 post-acute facilities, comprehensive home care and hospice services, a pharmacy benefit company, a health insurance company and an accountable care organization. It is one of the largest employers in every community it serves. For more information, visit ssmhealth.com or find us on Facebook and Twitter.

Officials Believe President Biden May Not Make His Goal Of 70% Vaccinated By July 4th

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The race is on to get 70 percent of Americans vaccinated with just days to go before President Biden’s July 4th deadline.

Appearing on face the nation, Former FDA Commissioner Dr Scott Gottlieb says the U. S. Will need to adopt a new strategy to reach the vaccinated now “We need to think about trying to push out the vaccine into community sites where people could get it delivered to them through a trusted intermediary.”

That’s going to mean doctor’s offices, schools, places of employment nationally.

Nearly 65% of adults are at least partially vaccinated, but 30 states lag behind with Mississippi, Wyoming, Alabama and Louisiana at the bottom.

Delta Variant Of COVID 19 On The Rise In Missouri And Nationwide

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Health officials are sounding the alarm for those who haven’t been vaccinated, as a new variant starts to spread nationwide, all while states continue to open up from COVID 19 restrictions.

The Delta Variant is nearly doubling every two weeks, and it tends to look like it might even be more serious in making people ill.

The Biden administration pushes to get 70% of Americans vaccinated with at least one dose by Independence Day.

At least 20 states are now banning so called vaccine passports, documents, which they say would have encouraged people to get a shot.

Delta, first found in India, is now responsible for almost 10% of new COVID cases here in the us.

Moderna says the Biden administration agreed to buy 200 million additional doses of its vaccine and that shots could be used as boosters or for children under 12, if the FDA gives emergency use authorization.

Parson Signs Bill Saying No To Vaccine Passports

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A bill just signed into law will prohibit COVID-19 passports in Missouri.

It would also hold local leaders accountable when they impose public health orders.

Under the new law, a political subdivision can only issue public health orders that restrict access to businesses, churches and schools for 30 calendar days in a 180-day period during a governor declared state of emergency.

But if there’s no state of emergency declared by the governor, a subdivision could restrict gathering places for 21 calendar days in the same 180-day period.

Governor Mike Parson signed the bill into law Tuesday.

 

***Additional Details:

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson signed HB 271 into law, which establishes greater accountability for local leaders when imposing public health orders and prohibits local COVID-19 vaccine passports.

“This legislation I am signing today requires local leaders to be more transparent in their reasoning and accountable for their decisions when it comes to public health orders,” Governor Parson said. “It also prohibits local, publicly funded entities from requiring a vaccine passport in order for residents to use public services, and while we encourage all Missourians to get vaccinated against COVID-19, it is not the government’s job to force them.”

Under HB 271, political subdivisions may only issue public health orders that directly or indirectly restrict access to businesses, churches, schools, or other places of assembly for 30 calendar days in a 180-day period when the governor has declared a state of emergency. Orders may be extended more than once with a simple majority vote by the local governing body.

If a state of emergency has not been issued by the governor, political subdivisions may only issue orders that limit access to businesses, churches, schools, or other places of assembly for 21 calendar days in a 180-day period. These orders may be extended more than once with a two-thirds vote by the local governing body.

Additionally, HB 271 prohibits county or municipal governments that receive public funds from requiring documentation of COVID-19 vaccination in order for residents to access transportation systems or other public services.

“We appreciate the leadership of Senator Sandy Crawford and Representative John Wiemann in working to get this legislation passed,” Governor Parson said.

To view HB 271, click here.

CDC To Hold An Emergency Meeting To Discuss Heart Inflammation In COVID Vaccines

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The C-D-C will be holding an emergency meeting next week to discuss rare cases of heart inflammation, among young people who have taken the Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccines.

The CDC has identified at least 226 cases of myocarditis and pericarditis among people under 30, mostly males after the second shot.

“It’s occurring at a rate among vaccinated people that’s a bit higher, than the expected rate in the general population” says doctor William Schaffner, infectious diseases professor at Vanderbilt University school of medicine.

He says the cases are mild and with treatment people are recovering “on the other side, you have COVID itself. That virus can do the same thing, at much higher rates…and that persists longer.”

He says the vaccines are still worth a shot.

The news comes nearly a month after the Johnson and Johnson vaccine was halted, after showing issues with blood clotting among women.

COVID 19 Cases Rapidly Increasing In Laclede County – Now Deemed A “Hotspot”

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The alarms are sounding in Laclede County as the number of COVID 19 cases skyrocket.

The county was just declared a “COVID Hotspot” by the Missouri Hospital Association.

Over the past few days, the number of active cases there jumped to 83 since June 1st, an average of 7 cases a day.

Additionally, the number of patients with COVID symptoms is also on the rise.

COVID 19 Cases Starting To Rise In Some Counties Across The Lake

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The number of active cases of COVID 19 appear to be on the rise again.

Across the 4-county region, there are a total of 62 active cases, the highest number of which is coming from Camden County, where now some 43 active cases are being watched by the Health Department.

Miller county is also watching 12 cases while Morgan has 5 and Benton has 2.

To date, there have been 10,160 active cases reported with 9,863 people recovering and there have been 235 deaths.

COVID vaccines continue to be administered across the region and the total number of those vaccinated in the 4-county region is at 59,883.

Gerbes To Giveaway Money/Groceries To Encourage COVID 19 Vaccinations

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Gerbes will be giving away $5 Million dollars towards supporting the goal of reaching 70% COVID 19 vaccinations in the US.

The company is giving away 5 $1 Million Dollar checks and 50 groceries for a year in this campaign.

Ten groceries for a year will be given away each week for five weeks, totaling a whopping $13,000 dollars.

In order to participate, you must receive or have received at least one COVID 19 vaccine dose at a Kroger Family store or one of the Kroger Family offsite clinics.

 

****Additional info…..

Get vaccinated for your chance at $1 million

We’re giving away $5,000,000! You could be 1 of 5 lucky winners to receive $1,000,000, or 1 of 50 lucky winners to receive groceries for a year!

Each week we’ll select one of those million-dollar winners and 10 groceries for a year winners. If you are a legal resident that is physically located in the 50 U.S. (or D.C.), 18 years of age or older and have received at least one (1) dose of the COVID-19 vaccine at a Kroger Family Company or by a Kroger Family Company healthcare professional at an off-site event OR are a current employee of Sponsor and received your COVID-19 vaccine at a different location while employed by Sponsor, enter below today!

HyVee To Offer Customers Gift Cards To Get Vaccinated For COVID

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Hy-Vee is stepping up to encourage more residents to get their vaccinations for COVID 19.

In a release, the company says they will be giving customer’s a $10 gift card for those who get vaccinated at one of their vaccine clinics.

Those who qualify must be fully vaccinated between June 1st and November 11th 2021, and you’ll only get the card after your second dose of either the Pfizer or Moderna vaccines.

Those vaccines are available for individuals 12 years or older and residents can walk-in or call ahead for an appointment.

COVID Protocols To Change At State Fair Community College

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COVID-19 protocols are changing at State Fair Community College.

Starting June 1st, masks will no longer be required for students and employees, although there could be some exceptions.

The college also says its COVID-19 dashboard on its website has been discontinued.

By August 1st, State Fair Community College plans to have classrooms back to pre-pandemic layouts and benches and other campus seating will be back.

Teachers and students will be encouraged to stay home if they feel sick.

Missouri State University To Remove Mask/COVID Rules

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Masked Lady on UnSplash

One university in Missouri will be ending its mask requirements for students.

Missouri State University in Springfield is announcing students will no longer have to cover their face, but masks will still be required in clinics on campus.

MSU President Clif Smart made the announcement during his weekly update.

Smart also says COVID-19-related signs around campus and floor stickers marking social distancing measures will be removed.

Bill Moves To Stop Lawsuits Against Businesses Involving COVID 19 Making Progress

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Missouri Governor Mike Parson could soon see a bill on his desk that would stop lawsuits against businesses accused of exposing people to COVID-19.

State Senator Tony Luetkemyer is sponsoring the bill that now needs only final approval from the Missouri House.

The Missouri Chamber of Commerce says more than 58-hundred COVID-related complaints have been filed around the nation, and they’re concerned that number will rise as trial attorneys recruit plaintiffs who think they were infected by a given business.

The Chamber says all but one of the Missouri’s neighboring states have passed some kind of legislative protection against these lawsuits.

Governor Parson Announces Impressive Jobs Numbers For The Show Me State

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Governor Mike Parson has some numbers on the Missouri economy.

Those include a COVID-19 job-loss-recovery of 70-percent and a current unemployment rate of 4.2-percent.

“We are now 1st in the nation for Small Business wage growth. We are 2nd for the lowest change in employment rate, year over year. We are 2nd in the nation for apprenticeships. We are 4th in the nation for new manufacturing facilities” says Governor Parson.

He also says Missouri is 7th in the U-S in migration and 10th in the nation in new business expansion, all because of they way the state has handled everything from working, building and COVID 19 “we have taken a balanced approach to how we dealt with the crisis, and everything we did prior to the crisis. That’s why we are at where we are today.”

Earlier this week Parson announced all COVID-19-related unemployment programs will end June 12th.

Missouri Congress Passes More Legislation To Limit COVID Restrictions In The State

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Some parts of Missouri continue COVID-19 restrictions, but those mandates will now have a time limit.

The Missouri House and Senate passed legislation that would limit restrictions, like closing businesses, churches and schools to 30 days, unless extended by the local governing body.

The legislation also puts a limit on how long a local area, like St. Louis, can restrict gatherings of people.

More Federal Money Is Coming For Camden County

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Camden County’s been notified by the Fed there’s money coming in the near future from the American Rescue Plan of 2021.

“Camden County is going to get a Ball Park $9 Million dollars from the Department of the Treasury to handle this ongoing health crisis that we have” says Presiding Camden County Commissioner Greg Hasty ,“since we received a direct guidance earlier this week, by e-mail from the Federal Government, I am anticipating that since they’re sending that out that sometime in the very near future we will be receiving those funds.”

He tells KRMS News guidelines for spending that money have been given to the Commission, and they’ll have a limited time to spend it “we’re going to have to be looking at water or sewer projects, or bridge projects…things that are “shovel ready” that are ready to go and we can spend money in those areas.”

Hasty says broadband infrastructure is also an area where some of the money can be spent.

He says the money has yet to arrive.

Governor Parson Ends Extended Federal Unemployment Benefit Participation

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The extended unemployment benefits in Missouri are officially coming to an end in June as a statewide labor shortage continues.

“Despite our economy’s strong comeback, many business owners and employers across the state are still struggling. Not because of COVID 19, but because they can’t find people to fill the jobs” says Governor Mike Parson during a briefing on Tuesday, “to help address this labor shortage, I have directed the Missouri Department of Labor to end participation in all Federal Pandemic related unemployment benefits….effective Saturday June the 12th.”

He says these programs were only meant to be temporary “it’s time that we end these programs, that have incentivized people to stay out of the workforce. This is an important step towards returning to normalcy and strengthening our economy. While these federal benefits providing necessary financial assistance during the height of COVID 19, they were only meant to be temporary. Continuing these programs would only worsen the workforce issues we’re currently facing.”

The benefits for regular pre-pandemic unemployment benefits will remain available after June 12th.

 

****Additional Details***

Governor Parson Announces Missouri to End All Federal Pandemic-Related Unemployment Benefits

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – In order to address workforce shortages across the state, Governor Mike Parson today directed the Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations (DOLIR) to notify the U.S. Department of Labor that Missouri will end participation in all federal pandemic-related unemployment insurance programs effective Saturday, June 12 at 11:59 p.m.

“From conversations with business owners across the state, we know that they are struggling not because of COVID-19 but because of labor shortages resulting from these excessive federal unemployment programs,” Governor Parson said. “While these benefits provided supplementary financial assistance during the height of COVID-19, they were intended to be temporary, and their continuation has instead worsened the workforce issues we are facing. It’s time that we end these programs that have ultimately incentivized people to stay out of the workforce.”

“As I travel the state, from Sarcoxie to Hannibal and all points in between, over-arching concerns from business owners is the shortage of employees,” Lieutenant Governor Mike Kehoe said. “Across every industry, businesses cannot compete against federal largesse. Our economy is built upon an active and vibrant workforce, and we should be cultivating job-creation and employment rather than inhibiting them. The jobs exist and the demand exists, and I applaud the governor for taking this bold and decisive action.”

The termination announced today applies to the following programs:

  • Pandemic Unemployment Assistance;
  • Emergency Unemployment Relief for Government Entities and Nonprofit Organizations;
  • Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation;
  • Pandemic Emergency Unemployment Compensation;
  • 100 Percent Reimbursement of Short-Time Compensation Benefit Costs Paid Under State Law; and
  • Mixed Earner Unemployment Compensation.

“We know that one of the last remaining hurdles to full economic recovery is addressing this labor shortage. Even with unemployment at only 4.2 percent, there are still 221,266 known job postings across the state,” Governor Parson said. “The solution to close this gap is not the excessive spending of taxpayer dollars by the federal government, but rather getting people back to work and to a sense of normalcy for themselves and their families. Today’s action ensures that we will fill existing jobs as well as the thousands of new jobs coming to our state as businesses continue to invest and expand in Missouri.”

In a letter to the U.S. Department of Labor, Missouri Department of Labor and Industrial Relations Director Anna Hui gave notice of Missouri’s intention to terminate all federal pandemic-related unemployment programs. To view the letter, see attachment.

“During the last recession in 2008, the federal government contributed $25 per week to supplement state unemployment benefits. During the latest economic downturn, Washington poured in $600 per week in addition to Missouri’s weekly benefit of up to $320,” said Director Hui.

“Even after the original $600 supplement expired, it was replaced by a federal supplement that provides an extra $300 per week on top of Missouri’s existing state benefit, meaning thousands of claimants continue to receive $620 per week or more,” Director Hui continued. “The unemployment system is designed to provide a temporary safety net as workers look to reenter the job market. Leaving the level of benefits artificially high would prevent a return to full employment in our state.”

Today’s action follows steps taken last July to require claimants to again conduct weekly work searches in order to be eligible for unemployment benefits. This work search requirement had originally been waived in March of 2020 as part of an agreement with the federal government to receive funds under the CARES Act.

Under Missouri’s law, claimants are required to perform and report three work search activities per week. Qualified work search activities include filing an application (online or in-person) with an employer or through job posting sites or attending a job fair, job interview, reemployment service, or skills workshop.

Missouri Job Centers are available to assist unemployed workers with these requirements by providing customized job searches through jobs.mo.gov , job fairs, Reemployment Services and Eligibility Assessment (RESEA) appointments, workshops, and other training programs. Employers are encouraged to post job openings on MoJobs. For more information about services available through the Missouri Job Centers, visit jobs.mo.gov.

For questions regarding Missouri unemployment, please utilize the Division Employment Security’s virtual assistant at labor.mo.gov and visit labor.mo.gov/coronavirus.

2021-5-11 Dir Hui to USDOL - Termination of Program Agreement

COVID Vaccine Event Coming To Camdenton – Teens Now Allowed To Take Pfizer Vaccine

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The FDA is moving forward with approving the use of the Pfizer COVID 19 Vaccine for teenagers.

Officials modifying the Emergency Use Authorization on Monday, now allowing for teens 12 to 15 years old to get the 2-dose vaccine.

They previously allowed only 16 or older to accept the shot.

A vaccination event is scheduled for today in Camden County for those 18 and older.

It’s being hosted by Central Ozarks Medical center at the Camdenton Middle School from 5-7 PM.

Details on who can take the vaccine and how to register can be found below:

 

************

Attention All Missourians 18 years and older. Free vaccinations are now available to all adults. This location will offer 1st and 2nd doses.
FREE COVID-19 VACCINATION EVENT
Tuesday, May 11th
Camdenton Middle School
88 Lake Lane
Camdenton 65020
5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
For individuals already registered in the Navigator, the link to register is:
https://modhss.iad1.qualtrics.com/j…/form/SV_2f55QmF3Cq7VTAa
Individuals that have not registered will need to go to:
https://modhss.iad1.qualtrics.com/j…/form/SV_231d5TxZxkGedCt
Use special event code: 75750

Ameren Missouri Continues To Help Residents In Wake Of COVID 19 With Energy Assistance

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Right now there’s an additional 3-and-a-half million dollars available by Ameren Missouri to help out if you’re having trouble keeping up with utility bills.

“With the Pandemic still continuing, we are seeing some good signs of things happening….but customers are still dealing with the fallout from unemployment, reduced hours and illnesses” says Connie Taylor with Ameren Missouri.

She says the money’s available to eligible customers through three different programs, one of which is putting energy-efficient products in the hands of eligible customers along with a ‘do it yourself’ kit “a smart thermostat, weather striping, LED light bulbs and a number of items that are customer installable.”

Taylor says you can learn more about the new programs available to low-income customers online at http://AmerenMissouriSavings.com

 

***Press Release***

Ameren Missouri designates additional $3.5 million to help low-income customers impacted by COVID-19

New funding will focus on supporting families facing financial hardship due to the pandemic

ST. LOUIS (May 5, 2021) – As the ongoing financial hardship resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic continues to impact families across the state, Ameren Missouri has worked with the Missouri Public Service Commission (PSC) and Office of Public Counsel to direct an additional $3.5 million to help eligible customers.

“We want customers to know that Ameren Missouri is here to help, especially in times of critical need. These additional funds will support more customers as we head into summer, a time when electricity usage is typically much higher,” said Marty Lyons, chairman and president of Ameren Missouri.

Ameren Missouri will use the $3.5 million in three ways:

  • $1.3 million will be used to create a new energy efficiency program for eligible low-income customers.
  • $1 million will be distributed to help a network of local energy assistance agencies that distribute energy assistance funds to customers in need.
  • $1.2 million will fund additional energy assistance programs throughout 2021.

For the first time, Ameren Missouri will distribute energy-efficiency products to 2,100 low-income customers across the state. These customers were identified based on a variety of need indicators and will be contacted directly by Ameren Missouri. Participating customers will receive a DIY home kit with a variety of energy-saving products worth up to $250.

The kits are designed for customers to install on their own, with an energy specialist on hand to answer questions and assist via phone. Once installed, the customer will be eligible for a one-time, $150 credit on their energy statement. Each kit will include a smart thermostat, LED bulbs, advanced power strip, aerators, pipe and window insulation, foam weather stripping and door corner pads.

“We appreciate the Missouri Office of Public Counsel working with us to make this important assistance available to those customers who have the greatest need, and the PSC approving the usage of these funds for these three purposes,” Lyons said.

Whether or not you qualify for the program, all customers can access many of the items in the DIY kits for a low cost at Amerenmissourisavings.com. This site also includes a $0 Sensi smart thermostat offer, which can help save up to $180 in energy costs each year.

Energy assistance is available to Ameren Missouri customers who need help paying their bills. Visit AmerenMissouri.com/EnergyAssistance to learn about various support options, including new and enhanced federally funded COVID-19 relief programs. Select programs are offering increased income eligibility, allowing more Missourians to receive help even if they didn’t qualify previously.

The state of Missouri recently announced expanded income eligibility for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Missouri households with an income of up to 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) are now eligible for LIHEAP. This change allows a family of four with an annual income of up to $51,021 to qualify for assistance, up from the previous annual income limit of $35,364. For detailed eligibility requirements and to apply online, visit myDSS.mo.gov/energy-assistance.

Ameren Missouri has been providing electric and gas service for more than 100 years, and the company’s electric rates are among the lowest in the nation. Ameren Missouri’s mission is to power the quality of life for its 1.2 million electric and 132,000 natural gas customers in central and eastern Missouri. The company’s service area covers 64 counties and more than 500 communities, including the greater St. Louis area. For more information, visit Ameren.com/Missouri or follow us on Twitter at @AmerenMissouri or Facebook.com/AmerenMissouri.

Governor Parson To Scale Down MO National Guard’s Participation In COVID Vaccination Sites

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Governor Mike Parson is scaling down the Missouri National Guard’s involvement with mass vaccination sites around the state.

The Governor says the demand for the vaccine is declining, but he also says state-supported vaccine sites scheduled in May will continue as planned.

Parson says you can expect the Missouri National Guard to be completely withdrawn from COVID vaccine operations by the first of June.

 

***Press Release***

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – As demand for the COVID-19 vaccine has significantly decreased in recent weeks, Governor Mike Parson announced the Missouri National Guard (MONG) has begun scaling back its involvement at mass vaccination site locations in May. The drawdown of National Guard members is set to be completed by June 1, 2021.

“We are in a far different situation today than we were just a couple months ago. In the beginning, vaccine demand far outweighed vaccine supply. Now, we are seeing the reverse of that, and the need for large scale vaccination events has lessened,” Governor Parson said. “Missouri is in a good place on the vaccine front, and that is thanks in large part to the tireless efforts of our National Guard members to get vaccines into the arms of Missourians. We couldn’t be more thankful for the hard work of these dedicated men and women over the past several months.”

State-supported vaccination teams have conducted hundreds of vaccine clinics and administered more than 382,000 vaccines, representing nearly 10 percent of total vaccines administered across Missouri.

Recently, state-supported vaccination teams and other vaccinators have experienced sharp reductions in COVID-19 vaccine demand – a trend that is occurring across the nation. As a result, the state has begun a phased approach to reduce state-supported lines of effort, particularly those utilizing the MONG.

The MONG will continue the work of its Targeted Vaccination Teams in St. Louis and Kansas City. Guard members will also continue to assist in staffing the Department of Health and Senior Services’ COVID-19 Hotline and provide support for Missouri food banks and food pantries.

There are no plans to cancel currently scheduled state-supported vaccination events in May. However, operations will begin to shift so that a full withdraw of MONG members can be achieved by June 1. Local partners, along with AmeriCorps, FEMA vaccinators, and the Missouri Disaster Medical Assistance Team, will assist as needed with assignments previously filled by Guard members.

The State Emergency Management Agency will continue to supply PPE for local events and will also continue its efforts in providing clinical and non-clinical volunteers as needed for local events.

The state is also working with vaccinators across Missouri, including health care systems, pharmacies, local public health agencies, and other community providers, to promote more convenience-driven vaccine options for Missourians like walk-up availability and extended hours of operation.

Data shows that 80 percent of Missourians have access to a COVID-19 vaccine within a five mile radius of where they reside. This is due to the vast network of local vaccine providers across the state of Missouri.

“Vaccines are readily available all across the state, and Missourians can often walk right into their local pharmacy and receive a shot. With universal vaccine availability and decreased interest at our mass vaccination events, scaling back our state-supported teams is the right decision for the most efficient use of our resources,” Governor Parson said. “We will continue to educate Missourians on the safety and effectiveness of the vaccine so that those who have not yet chosen to be vaccinated may join the millions of other Missourians who have.”

In total, more than 4 million vaccine doses have been administered in Missouri, nearly 2.4 million Missourians have initiated vaccination, and more than 1.8 million Missourians have been fully vaccinated. Missouri’s dashboard shows that over 38 percent of all Missourians have initiated vaccination, and nearly 50 percent of Missourians 18 and older have received at least one dose.

Of Missourians 65 and older – some of the most vulnerable Missourians – nearly 66 percent have been fully vaccinated, and 76 percent have received at least one dose.

Missourians can visit MOStopsCOVID.com for more information about the vaccine or call the Missouri COVID-19 hotline at 877-435-8411 for additional information and assistance. Missourians can also use VaccineFinder.org to find vaccinators in their area with available vaccine and specific vaccine type. 

WIC Benefits To Increase To $35 For Vegetables Until September

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Eligible mothers and other parents will now see an increase in the monthly Cash Value Benefit under the Women, Infant and Children Program.

WIC benefits will increase to $35 dollars per month for those who are eligible after the U.S.D.A was given the authority to put the increase in effect by the American Rescue Plan.

The normal cash value benefit for fruits and vegetables in Missouri is around $11 dollars per month.

The increase will be in effect from June through September.

Other people caring for young children may also be eligible for the WIC Program, like fathers and grandparents.

For more you can log onto the Miller County Health Center website.

Free COVID 19 Vaccination Event Taking Place Thursday Morning In Lake Ozark

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Free COVID-19 Vaccination Event

May 6, 2021

The Regalia Hotel and Conference Center

250 Racquet Club Drive

Lake Ozark, MO 65049

 

Hours of Operation:

10 Am until Noon

FREE COVID-19 VACCINATION EVENT
Attention All Missourians 18 years and older. Free vaccinations are now available to all adults. This location will offer 1st and 2nd doses.
Please register via the following link: https://modhss.iad1.qualtrics.com/…/SV_231d5TxZxkGedCt or email us directly : info@centralozarks.org
Use special event code: 76162

New Wallethub Study Shows Missouri Is 8th Best In The US For Nurses

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A new study shows Missouri is the 8th best state in the U-S for nurses.

WalletHub.com says the Show Me State ranks fourth in the country in annual salary for nurses.

Missouri gets a ranking of 6th in the nation in nursing job-openings per capita and 11th in the U-S in average number of hours worked.

You can see the complete rundown of the survey right below.

 

***Additional Info***

 

With nurses working to administer the COVID-19 vaccine while facing continued PPE shortages, and with National Nurses Week kicking off May 6, the personal-finance website WalletHub today released its report on 2021’s Best & Worst States for Nurses, as well as accompanying videos.

In order to help new nursing graduates find the best markets for their profession, WalletHub compared the relative attractiveness of the 50 states across 22 key metrics. The data set ranges from monthly average starting salary for nurses to health-care facilities per capita to nursing-job openings per capita.

The Nursing Market in Missouri (1=Best; 25=Avg.):

  • 13th – Monthly Avg. Starting Salary for Nurses (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
  • 17th – Health-Care Facilities per Capita
  • 26th – Projected Share of Elderly Population by 2030
  • 6th – Nursing-Job Openings per Capita
  • 4th – Average Annual Salary for Nurses (Adjusted for Cost of Living)
  • 11th – Avg. Number of Work Hours

For the full report, please visit:
https://wallethub.com/edu/best-states-for-nurses/4041

Governor Parson Orders All Remaining State Employees Back To Work By May 17th

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By May 17th, state employees are expected back to work in person all over Missouri.

Governor Parson made the announcement Wednesday.

Many employees have been working remotely for 14 months.

Normal business hours are to resume and Governor Parson wants all state buildings to be open and accessible to the public.

The office of the governor says COVID-19 screening and testing protocols will continue.

Lake Of The Ozarks Sees Over 10,000 Positive COVID Cases – Active Cases Drop Below 20

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The Lake of the Ozarks has officially broken the COVID 19 10,000 case threshold.

The latest data from the combined 4 counties that makes up the Lake Area, shows a total of 10,024 positive cases since March 2020, when testing first started.

Despite that number, the progress towards slowing the spread has been rapidly expanding, with just 19 active cases remaining at this time.

In total, 9,778 people have recovered from the virus, while 227 people died as a result of its effects.

Overall, the Lake area has so far administered over 47,000 COVID 19 vaccines in the 4-county region.

See the full numbers below:

 

Current Active Cases: 19

Total Recovered Cases: 9,778

Overall Totals in the Lake Area: 10,024

Overall Deaths In The Lake Area: 227

Number of residents now vaccinated: 47,829

 

 

Totals by County:

 

Camden County:

Total Active Cases: 10

Total Recovered: 3,901

Total Cases: 3,992

Deaths: 81

Residents Now Vaccinated: 23,192

UPDATED 05/04

 

Miller County:

Total Active Cases: 2

Total Recovered: 2,427

Total Cases: 2,485

Deaths: 56

Residents Now Vaccinated: 8,796

*UPDATED 05/04

 

Morgan County:

Total Active Cases: 4

Total Recovered: 1,688

Total Cases: 1,735

Deaths: 43

Residents Now Vaccinated: 9,481

*UPDATED 05/04

 

Benton County:

Total Active Cases: 3

Total recovered: 1,762

Total Cases: 1,812

Deaths: 47

Residents Now Vaccinated: 6,360

*UPDATED 05/04

 

For state data: The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services’ ongoing data on COVID 19 cases can be found here.

Officer Blackburn Of Lebanon One Of Many To Be Added To Wall Of Honor This Weekend

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The names of eight Missouri law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2020 will be added to the Law Enforcement Wall of Honor this weekend.

One of those eight names is Kendle Blackburn, a Lebanon police officer who died of COVID-19 December 28th.

The names will be added Saturday and there’s a candlelight vigil on Friday evening for all Missouri law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty.

Governor Mike Parson has ordered the capitol dome to be lighted in blue Friday night to honor the fallen officers.

 

****Additional Details****

JEFFERSON CITY – The Department of Public Safety today announced details of two ceremonies that will be held on April 30 and May 1 at the Law Enforcement Memorial on the grounds of the State Capitol to honor Missouri law enforcement officers who paid the ultimate price for protecting their communities.

On Friday evening, April 30, a candlelight vigil will be held at the Missouri Law Enforcement Memorial in tribute to all Missouri law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. Governor Mike Parson has ordered the Capitol dome and Law Enforcement Memorial to be lighted blue on Friday night in honor of law enforcement officers.

On Saturday, May 1, the names of eight officers who died in the line of duty during 2020 will be added to the memorial’s Wall of Honor during the annual Law Enforcement Memorial Service at the memorial. The names of seven officers whose historical line-of-duty deaths have recently been confirmed will also be added to the wall.

2020 Line of Duty Deaths

*         Christopher Ryan Walsh – On March 16, 2020, Springfield Police Department Officer Christopher Ryan Walsh was shot and killed when he and another officer confronted an active shooter at a convenience store.

*         Andy Deric Clark – On June 3, 2020, DeKalb County Sheriff Andy Deric Clark was killed in a vehicle crash near Osborn, Mo. while responding to assist a deputy in an emergency situation.

*         Tamarris L. Bohannon – On Aug. 29, 2020, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Officer Tamarris L. Bohannon was mortally wounded when he and another officer were ambushed responding to a shooting calling in the Tower Grove South neighborhood. He succumbed to his wound the next day.

*         Rick A. Groves – On Oct. 16, 2020, Kennett Police Department Assistant Chief Rick A. Groves died after contracting COVID-19 as a result of his law enforcement service.

*         Richard Allen Wright – On Nov. 19, 2020, Missouri Department of Corrections Officer Richard Allen Wright died after contracting COVID-19 as a result of his service as a corrections officer.

*         Dwight Eugene Willis – On Nov. 22, 2020, Greene County Sheriff’s Office Detention Officer Dwight Eugene Willis died after contracting COVID-19 as a result of his service as a detention officer.

*         Herschel Turner Jr. – On Dec. 5, 2020, Moline Acres Police Department Sergeant Herschel Turner Jr. and another officer had stopped a stolen vehicle when Sergeant Turner was fatally struck by the vehicle of another officer arriving at the scene to provide assistance.

*         Kendle Glen Blackburn – On Dec. 28, 2020, Lebanon Police Department Patrolman Kendle Glen Blackburn died after contracting COVID-19 as a result of his law enforcement service.

Recently Confirmed Historical Line-of-Duty Deaths

*         Albert Kopf – On Sept. 3, 1907, City of Pacific Marshal Albert Kopf succumbed to his wounds after being shot three days earlier by a homeless man after Kopf had responded to a call from a woman about a disturbance at the woman’s home.

*         John W. Burns – On April 21, 1922, City of Lathrop Marshal John W. Burns died after being shot in a gun battle with five men, who had attempted to rob him at gunpoint as he performed his duties.

*         William E. Griffin – On June 10, 1923, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department Patrolman William E. Griffin was shot and killed responding to an armed robbery at the Telegraph Inn, which was located in St. Louis County.

*         David W. Waymire – On March 13, 1927, City of Crane Marshal David W. Waymire died as a result of wounds suffered after being shot by a man wanted for auto theft whom he had attempted to arrest two miles west of Crane days earlier.

*         S. Dent Owen – On Jan. 3, 1929, Monroe City Marshal S. Dent Owen died from injuries suffered in a head-on collision on Highway 36 while driving a vehicle that had been stolen and that he had recovered during an investigation.

*         James E. Tines – On Sept. 9, 1933, St. Louis – San Francisco Railway Police Special Agent James E. Tines was fatally wounded in an armed robbery while on duty near Springfield.

*         Herman E. Weirich – On Feb. 12, 1946, City of Sullivan Marshal Herman E. Weirich died, four days after the vehicle he was traveling in while on duty was struck by a train.

The families of the fallen and representatives of law enforcement agencies from across Missouri will participate in Saturday’s solemn ceremony. Lt. Gov. Mike Kehoe and Attorney General Eric Schmitt will deliver remarks at the ceremony.

Existing COVID Mandates Continue To Drop Across The Ozarks And People Are Reacting

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COVID-19 restrictions and mandates are falling back around Missouri and the Lake Area, and Ozarks This Morning host Guy Wehman is asking residents and visitors what they think about masks no longer being required in the Camdenton R-3 School District.

One man says it’s a personal preference: “I think that they should just open it up….if you want to wear a mask, wear a mask…if you don’t, then don’t”

Another man believes the masks were hindering kids from learning: “Uh, it’s kind of a double edged sword. One, the masks? Getting rid of them well allow them (Camdenton School Children) will actually allow them to focus more on their class…rather than wearing the mask and breathing through it and everything.”

Two ladies say it’s really a personal choice, it shouldn’t be the Government’s requirement: “I think the Government doesn’t need to tell us how to take care of themselves. I think that’s what America is all about….the Government not up in everything”….”Isn’t it? I think we’re forgetting that!”

Two new members of the school board were sworn into office April 12th, those two members include new president Gail Griswold and Brian Butts.

COVID Vaccines Now Open To All Adults In Missouri But Fewer Than Half Have Taken Them

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Fewer than half of all Missourians have taken one of the three vaccination formulas available in the state and the U-S.

Governor Mike Parson says around one-third of Missouri’s population has taken the COVID-19 shot.

The numbers show a greater percentage of people 65 and older are getting the shots, with around 60-percent having taken a full dose and 72-percent having taken at least one dose of the Pfizer or Moderna shots.

This week the FDA and the CDC announced a pause on the Johnson and Johnson  vaccination after six reported cases of blood clots in people who had taken the single-dose shot.

 

***Press Release***

Missouri Reaches Milestone: One in Three Missourians Have Initiated Vaccination 

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Missouri’s COVID-19 vaccine dashboard reports that one-third of all Missourians have now received at least one dose of the COVID-19 vaccine.

“One-third of all Missourians have now received at least one dose of the vaccine, proving that we continue to make great progress in administering vaccines to residents across the state,” Governor Parson said. “This milestone is great news for the people of Missouri, and we will continue working hard to keep this momentum. The vaccine is safe and effective, and we encourage all eligible Missourians who have not yet received it to consider getting vaccinated.”

In total, nearly 2.1 million Missourians have initiated vaccination and almost 1.4 million Missourians have been fully vaccinated. Missouri’s dashboard shows that 33.3 percent of all Missourians have initiated vaccination, and data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that nearly 42 percent of Missouri’s 18 and older population has received at least one dose.

Of Missouri’s 65 and older population – some of the most vulnerable Missourians – nearly 60 percent have been fully vaccinated and 72 percent have received at least one dose.

“We cannot thank our vaccinators enough for their efforts over these last several months, and we appreciate the millions of Missourians who are stepping up to protect themselves and others,” Governor Parson said. “Getting vaccinated is how we end this pandemic and move forward from this crisis.”

Missourians are encouraged to visit MOStopsCOVID.com for facts about the vaccine and to register for an appointment using the state’s Vaccine Navigator. Missourians can also call the to state’s COVID-19 hotline at 877-435-8411 for more information and assistance.

School Board At Camdenton R-3 Looks Forward After Removing COVID Mandates

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The Camdenton R-III School District has no more COVID-19 protocols or restrictions.

The school board voted 4-3 in favor of eliminating numerous procedures Monday Night.

“Mandatory masks wearing, social distancing and secondary quarantine of healthy individuals are all done away with” says new Camdenton School Board president Gail Griswold, “I don’t think I understood the gravity of how much they (children in the district) weren’t doing. The feedback we’ve been receiving from the students, the community as well as the staff and teachers since this decision on Monday has been overwhelmingly positive.”

She tells KRMS News getting rid of the COVID restrictions means several opportunities for school kids “kids in Kindergarten can now put their carpet squares together….their parents can now come have lunch with them. Seniors can have a normal graduation and the middle school can have in person parent night for incoming students for next year.”

Griswold is joined as a newcomer to the Camdenton School Board by Brian Butts.

The two combined for more than 50-percent of the Lake Area vote April 6th.

Lake Regional Updates The Community On The Vaccine Situation

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Lake Regional Pulmonologist Harjyot “Joe” Sohal, M.D., was the first Lake Regional employee to receive the COVID-19 vaccine.

The Lake Area’s reacting to a pause being placed on the Johnson and Johnson COVID-19 vaccine.

The FDA and the CDC are making that call after six people were found to have blood-clotting issues after taking the shot.

“We have sequestered the Johnson and Johnson vaccines that were on hand, and any current scheduled folks we have…they have been changed over to the Moderna shot” says Mike Dow with Lake Regional Health System, “what we are learning about the six cases under review currently, is that they were women between the ages of 18 and 48, with onset of symptoms anywhere between 6 and 13 days after receiving the shot. If you received that vaccine within the last two weeks, you should reach out to your healthcare provider and discuss it with the physician.”

He tells KRMS News what side effects you should be aware of if you recently took the Johnson & Johnson single shot vaccine “severe headaches or abdominal pain, leg pain or shortness of breath are signs and symptoms of a potential clot.”

Dow says if you took the Johnson and Johnson vaccine at that mass vaccination event in Osage Beach early last month, you are beyond the window of concern regarding actions taken right now by the CDC and the FDA.

The hotline for vaccine information in Missouri is 877-435-8411….You can also log onto http://lakeregional.com/COVID-19 for more information.

This is a developing story and we’ll pass along all other details as needed here on News /Talk KRMS.

Camdenton School Board Votes To End COVID 19 Protocols

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The Camdenton School board is moving forward with ending all COVID 19 protocols.

The decision follows Monday’s school board meeting, which included votes from newly elected members Gail Griswold and Brian Butts who helped push the 4 to 3 vote to finalize the decision.

Members Callie Henze and Troy Risner were the other two who joined Butts and Griswold for a yes vote.

Members Courtney Hullet, Nancy Masterson and Eric Walter voted against the move.

This is a developing story and we’ll being you more details as soon as they’re available.

BREAKING: FDA And CDC Call For “Temporary Pause” Of Johnson And Johnson COVID Vaccine

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The FDA and The CDC are announcing a “pause in the use” of the Johnson and Johnson Vaccine.

According to the FDA, officials are asking states to temporarily halt using the vaccine after six people in the US have developed a rare blood clotting disorder.

This vaccine is the same one that was used during the mass vaccination event at School of the Osage earlier this year.

Officials say this decision is out of an “abundance of caution”, indicating that the adverse reactions seen so far appear to be extremely rare.

This is a developing story and we’ll bring you more details as they come in.

 

*****Here is the press conference held at 9AM.

Missouri Senate Joins Governor Parson In Saying No To Vaccine Passports

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Missouri Governor Mike Parson is on record saying he does not support vaccine passports, and now the state Senate sending a similar message.

On Wednesday, a bill was passed by a vote of 26-7 to ban the idea that you need a COVID-19 shot to take public transportation, shop, take a taxi or fly.

The bill now heads to the State House of Representatives for consideration.

According to the state health department, cases of COVID-19 are dropping in Missouri.

For the week of March 29th, 21-hundred cases of COVID were recorded, and that was down 3-percent from the week before.

Masks No Longer Required For Students At Climax Springs

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Masked Lady on UnSplash

Wearing a mask in school for students at Climax Springs R-4 is now a thing of the past.

The district making the announcement this week, stating that the mask mandates are finished and students will not be required to wear them.

The school’s Superintendent, Caleb Petet, indicated that the decision follows other schools across the lake area who’ve made similar decisions.

He also indicated that with the number of faculty and staff getting the vaccine continuing to increase, the need for the masks is no longer there.

The removal of masks for the school is in a testing phase, meaning if COVID cases ramp up again…they may consider requiring them again.

Petet also indicated that those who wish to continue wearing masks may do so.

Governor Parson Says No Vaccine Passports For Missouri

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Governor Mike Parson says there will be no vaccine passports in Missouri.

“We will never do that mandated. If the private sector wishes to do that, I’m fine with that, but as far as the state goes….we will never mandate it” says Governor Parson at a press briefing in Jeff City.

Some Republican lawmakers in Missouri are expressing concern over the vaccine passports as the Governor tries to convince more people to take the new COVID shots.

Parson says COVID cases around the state remain low “our seven day positivity rate remains steady at 4% and our hospitalizations have dropped below 800 for the first time since early August.”

Governor Parson also says Missouri is lowest in the nation in seven-day P-C-R case rate and eighth lowest in combined P-C-R and antigen case rate.

New CDC Study Shows Young Adults In Missouri And Nationwide Are Suffering From Anxiety And/Or Depression

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A new CDC Study is showing that the percentage of adults with symptoms of anxiety and/or depression are growing in Missouri and Nationwide, but many aren’t getting help.

“It is very hard to find a new job, to perhaps meet a new romantic partner, to connect with friends and really launch into life, when you feel like you’re doing it alone” says Psychologist Ndiya Nkongho.

She tells KRMS News many of those suffering are young adults age 18 to 29, as well as those with less than a high school education “it’s going to take some young adults some time, to really re-calibrate and figure out what the path forward here…is going to look like for them.”

Nkongho says many young people actually feel as if where they are today, is worse off than where they were two years ago.

 

***Additional Info***

 

Symptoms of Anxiety or Depressive Disorder and Use of Mental Health Care Among Adults During the COVID-19 Pandemic — United States, August 2020–February 2021

March 26, 2021 / 70

Anjel Vahratian, PhD1; Stephen J. Blumberg, PhD1; Emily P. Terlizzi, MPH1; Jeannine S. Schiller, MPH1 (View author affiliations)

The spread of disease and increase in deaths during large outbreaks of transmissible diseases is often associated with fear and grief (1). Social restrictions, limits on operating nonessential businesses, and other measures to reduce pandemic-related mortality and morbidity can lead to isolation and unemployment or underemployment, further increasing the risk for mental health problems (2). To rapidly monitor changes in mental health status and access to care during the COVID-19 pandemic, CDC partnered with the U.S. Census Bureau to conduct the Household Pulse Survey (HPS). This report describes trends in the percentage of adults with symptoms of an anxiety disorder or a depressive disorder and those who sought mental health services. During August 19, 2020–February 1, 2021, the percentage of adults with symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder during the past 7 days increased significantly (from 36.4% to 41.5%), as did the percentage reporting that they needed but did not receive mental health counseling or therapy during the past 4 weeks (from 9.2% to 11.7%). Increases were largest among adults aged 18–29 years and among those with less than a high school education. HPS data can be used in near real time to evaluate the impact of strategies that address mental health status and care of adults during the COVID-19 pandemic and to guide interventions for groups that are disproportionately affected.

HPS is a rapid-response online survey using a probability-based sample design to measure the social and economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on U.S. households (3). This experimental data product* was developed by the U.S. Census Bureau in partnership with CDC’s National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) and several other federal statistical agencies. The sample is drawn from the U.S. Census Bureau’s Master Address File.† E-mail addresses and mobile telephone numbers associated with randomly selected housing units are used to invite participants. Analytic files include self-reported data from one adult aged ≥18 years at each address. Data collection began on April 23, 2020, and is ongoing (phase 1 = April 23–July 21, 2020; phase 2 = August 19–October 26, 2020; phase 3 = October 28, 2020–present, with a break during December 22, 2020–January 5, 2021). HPS response rates averaged 2.9%, 9.3%, and 6.5% during phase 1, phase 2, and phase 3 (through February 1, 2021), respectively.

Questions on mental health symptoms were based on the validated four-item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-4) for depression and anxiety and included how often, during the past 7 days, respondents had been bothered by 1) feeling nervous, anxious, or on edge; 2) not being able to stop or control worrying; 3) having little interest or pleasure in doing things; and 4) feeling down, depressed, or hopeless. Adults who had symptoms that generally occurred more than one half of the days or nearly every day were classified as having symptoms, consistent with published scoring recommendations§ (4). Questions about mental health care use included whether, during the past 4 weeks, respondents had 1) taken prescription medication for their mental health, 2) received counseling or therapy from a mental health professional, or 3) needed but did not receive counseling or therapy from a mental health professional (i.e., had an unmet mental health need).

Because of methodological differences between phases 1 and 2, trend analyses were limited to phases 2 and 3. Estimates** are presented for each 2-week data collection period for August 19, 2020–February 1, 2021 (unweighted sample size = 431,656 for phase 2 and 358,977 for phase 3, total = 790,633). Trends were assessed using joinpoint regression.†† In addition, changes in estimates of symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder and the two mental health care measures were compared between August 19–31, 2020, and January 20–February 1, 2021, according to selected respondent characteristics. SAS-callable SUDAAN (version 11.0; RTI International) was used to conduct these analyses. Estimates were weighted to adjust for nonresponse and number of adults in the household and to match U.S. Census Bureau estimates of the population by age, sex, race/ethnicity, and educational attainment.

During August 19–31, 2020, through December 9–21, 2020, significant increases were observed in the percentages of adults who reported experiencing symptoms of an anxiety disorder (from 31.4% to 36.9%), depressive disorder (from 24.5% to 30.2%), and at least one of these disorders (from 36.4% to 42.4%) (Figure 1). Estimates for all three mental health indicators through January 2021 were similar to those in December 2020.

During August 19–31, 2020, through November 25–December 7, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported taking prescription medication or receiving counseling for their mental health (from 22.4% to 25.0%) (Figure 2). Similarly, during August 19–31, 2020, through December 9–21, 2020, a significant increase was observed in the percentage of adults who reported needing but not receiving counseling or therapy for their mental health (from 9.2% to 12.4%). Estimates through January 2021 were similar to those in December 2020.

During August 19–31, 2020, through January 20–February 1, 2021, symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder increased significantly from 36.4% to 41.5% (Table). Significant increases were observed for all demographic subgroups presented, except adults aged ≥80 years and non-Hispanic adults reporting races other than White, Black, or Asian. The largest increases (8.0 and 7.8 percentage points) were among those aged 18–29 years and those with less than a high school education, respectively. During this time, mental health care treatment increased significantly from 22.4% to 24.8%. Significant increases were observed for adults aged 18–29, 30–39, and 60–69 years; men and women; non-Hispanic White and non-Hispanic Black adults; adults with at least a high school education; and adults who had not experienced symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder during the past 7 days.

Unmet mental health needs also increased significantly from 9.2% to 11.7%. Subgroups with significant increases included adults aged 18–29, 30–39, and 50–59 years; men and women; Hispanic, non-Hispanic White, and non-Hispanic Black adults; adults at all education levels; and adults regardless of whether they experienced symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder or both during the past 7 days. The largest increases in unmet mental health needs (7.2 percentage points and 4.3 percentage points) were among adults aged 18–29 years and those with less than a high school education, respectively. During January 20, 2021–February 1, 2021, 23.8% of persons with symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder had unmet mental health needs, and this percentage increased by 2.8 percentage points from August 2020 to February 2021.

Discussion

The percentage of adults who had symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder during the past 7 days and those with unmet mental health needs during the past 4 weeks increased significantly from August 2020 to February 2021, with the largest increases among those aged 18–29 years and those with less than a high school education. During January 20, 2021–February 1, 2021, more than two in five adults aged ≥18 years experienced symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder during the past 7 days. One in four adults who experienced these symptoms reported that they needed but did not receive counseling or therapy for their mental health.

These findings are consistent with results from surveys conducted early in the COVID-19 pandemic (March–June 2020) that showed an increased prevalence of mental health symptoms, especially among young adults (5–7). The more recent results indicate an increasing prevalence over time later in 2020, which remained increased in early 2021. The trends in symptoms of an anxiety or a depressive disorder from HPS have been shown to be consistent with trends in the weekly number of reported COVID-19 cases, and it has been theorized that increases in these mental health indicators correspond with pandemic trends (8).

The findings in this report are subject to at least four limitations. First, these data are based on self-report and were not confirmed by health professionals. Questions about mental health symptoms might be predictive of but do not necessarily reflect a clinical diagnosis. In addition, the predictive validity of the scales used in this report have not been confirmed when adapted from a 2-week to a 1-week time frame. Second, HPS did not assess the cause of these symptoms; therefore, a direct association with COVID-19 events could not be determined with certainty. Third, changes in mental health symptoms from the summer to the winter months might reflect symptoms associated with seasonal affective disorder (9). However, data from the 2019 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS),§§ measured using the unmodified PHQ-4, did not demonstrate statistically significant changes from August to December 2019 for symptoms of an anxiety disorder (8.1% to 8.6%); a depressive disorder (7.0% to 6.7%); or an anxiety disorder, a depressive disorder, or both (11.0% to 11.3%) (10). Finally, these estimates are intended to represent all adults aged ≥18 years living in housing units in the United States. However, representativeness might be limited by the indirect exclusion of persons without Internet access and by low response rates. Some households were not eligible to participate because the U.S. Census Bureau was unable to match a mobile telephone number or e-mail address. The sampling weights that were applied to all analyses were likely to have reduced some of the potential bias. Nevertheless, these data might not fully meet the U.S. Census Bureau’s quality standards and as such, the bureau labeled these data as experimental.

Despite these limitations, the survey’s timeliness and relevance are strengths of HPS. The U.S. Census Bureau releases data tables to the public 9 days after the close of each data collection period.¶¶ Simultaneously, NCHS updates online visualizations of trends in key health indicators.***

Several measures have been initiated to address increased mental health risks associated with COVID-19,††† and a previous report outlines additional strategies, including expanded use of telehealth, to address mental health conditions during the pandemic (6). Continued near real-time monitoring of mental health trends by demographic characteristics is critical during the COVID-19 pandemic. These trends might be used to evaluate the impact of strategies that address mental health status and care of adults during the pandemic and to guide interventions for groups that are disproportionately affected.

WTTC Report Shows Airline Travel Impacted Greatly By COVID Shutdowns

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A new report details the devastating impact the COVID 19 pandemic has had on the travel industry, specifically airlines.

The world travel and tourism council’s annual economic impact report shows a loss of nearly four point five trillion dollars last year.

The sector’s contribution to G-D-P sank almost 50 percent.

The industry was soaring in 2019….generating one in four new jobs around the world.

But when the pandemic hit, more than 62 million jobs were lost…almost 20 percent of those in the industry.

If travel resumes by June- the W-T-T-C predicts jobs would steadily return next year.

 

***Additional Info***

Economic Impact Reports

Alongside our Insights reports, WTTC produces reports on the economic and employment impact of Travel & Tourism for 185 countries and 25 geographic or economic regions in the world. These reports are a vital tool in helping us to equip public and private sector bodies with hard evidence of the huge value Travel & Tourism brings to the economy, so that their policymaking and investment decisions support our sector.

WTTC’s latest annual research, in conjunction with Oxford Economics, shows the Travel & Tourism sector experienced 3.5% growth in 2019, outpacing the global economic growth of 2.5% for the ninth consecutive year. Over the past five years, one in four new jobs were created by the sector, making Travel & Tourism the best partner for governments to generate employment.

In 2019, Travel & Tourism’s direct, indirect, and induced impact accounted for:

  • US$8.9 trillion contribution to the world’s GDP
  • 10.3% of global GDP
  • 330 million jobs, 1 in 10 jobs around the world
  • US$1.7 trillion visitor exports (6.8% of total exports, 28.3% of global services exports)
  • US$948 billion capital investment (4.3% of total investment)

Phase 2 COVID Vaccine Starts Today – State Of Emergency Extended Until August

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Phase Two for the Missouri COVID Vaccine plan is set to start today.

“Missouri is still leading the nation in 2nd lowest of average daily cases and each day more and more Missourians are receiving the COVID 19 vaccine” says Governor Mike Parson.

He says their target date for Phase 3 is Friday April 9th “Phase 3 will be open to all Missouri Adults, extending vaccine availability to an estimated 1.1 Million Missourians.”

Governor Parson also extended the state of emergency declaration over the weekend, it is now set to expire on August 31st.

Parson says that will allow the Missouri National Guard to continue working with the state in an effort to conduct vaccination events and it also allows more flexibility when it comes to providing resources, such as funding and PPE.

 

***Press Release***

 

Governor Parson Signs Executive Order 21-07 Extending State of Emergency in Missouri

State of Emergency to Assist Continued COVID-19 Recovery

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson signed Executive Order 21-07 extending the state of emergency in Missouri through August 31, 2021, to help accelerate COVID-19 recovery.

“For over a year now, we have worked nonstop to take a balanced approach, fight COVID-19, and keep Missourians as safe as possible,” Governor Parson said. “We have made incredible progress in a short amount of time, and we must continue doing all that we can to support Missouri citizens, business, and communities throughout the recovery process.”

The state of emergency extension will allow the state continued flexibility in providing resources and easing regulatory burdens to further assist Missouri’s COVID-19 recovery efforts. This also allows for continued utilization of the Missouri National Guard and federal funding for COVID-19 response efforts.

Governor Parson initially declared a state of emergency on March 13, 2020, with the signing of Executive Order 20-02. Since that time, nearly 600 state statutes and regulations have been waived or suspended to increase efficiency and effectiveness in responding to COVID-19.

Executive Order 21-07 keeps many of the previous measures in place, including those related to telemedicine, motor carrier limitations, the sale of unprepared foods by restaurants, and remote notary access for certain legal documents such as estate planning.

Over 200 waivers are currently in the rescission process as the state continues to recover and the need for certain waivers diminishes. However, the Governor’s Office will continue to work with state agencies to identify regulations that can be permanently eliminated or streamlined moving forward.

To view Executive Order 21-07, click here.

Phase 2 COVID Vaccine To Start Monday March 29th

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Phase Two for the Missouri COVID Vaccine is set to start on Monday March 29th.

“Missouri is still leading the nation at 2nd lowest of average daily cases and each day, more and more Missourians are receiving the vaccine” says Governor Mike Parson.

He says Phase 3 could also begin as early as Friday, April 9th “Phase 3 will be open to all Missouri Adults, extending vaccine eligibility to an estimated 1.1 million Missourians.”

He says part of the reason Missouri is moving up its COVID vaccination timeline is because the state now ranks tenth in the U-S in second dose completion of the COVID shot.

 

***Additional Details***

 

Governor Parson Announces Timeline for Activation of Phase 2 and 3 of Missouri’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan 

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – During today’s briefing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson announced that Missouri will activate Phase 2 of the state’s COVID-19 Vaccination Plan on Monday, March 29, 2021, and Phase 3 on Friday, April 9, 2021.

“With the progress we are currently seeing and vaccine supply expected to increase significantly in the coming weeks, we are well ahead of schedule with our vaccine plan,” Governor Parson said. “Supply projections are subject to change, but it is critical that we start preparing for this potential influx and ensure there is a consistent number of people who are eligible and interested in receiving a vaccine.”

The federal government has informed the state that COVID-19 vaccine allotments to Missouri are projected to significantly increase by the first week of April. The timeline for activating Phases 2 and 3 ensures that there is a consistent number of people who are eligible and interested in receiving a vaccine, allowing vaccinators across the state to continue vaccinating Missourians without delays due to those who are eligible but not seeking a vaccine.

Activation of Phase 2 is estimated to extend vaccine eligibility to approximately 880,000 Missourians that are essential to equitable economic recovery, including those employed in construction, critical manufacturing, higher education, and remaining food and agriculture sectors. This also includes homeless and disproportionately affected populations with an emphasis on racial and ethnic minorities, among others.

Phase 3 will be open to all Missouri adults, extending vaccine eligibility to an estimated 1.1 million Missourians who were not activated under any other tier or phase. A complete list of populations included in each phase as well as activation status is available at MOStopsCOVID.com/priority.

With all phases of Missouri’s Vaccination Plan activated, approximately 4.5 million Missourians will be eligible. The state estimates that approximately 60 percent of these Missourians are interested in getting a vaccine.

To date, one in four Missourians have initiated vaccination, and approximately 50 percent of Missouri’s 65 and older population have initiated vaccination. Vulnerable populations in currently activated phases that have not yet received a vaccine will continue to be eligible as Missouri moves into Phases 2 and 3.

“Missouri’s position is continuously improving on the COVID-19 front,” Governor Parson said. “With over 1.2 million Missourians having initiated vaccination, large increases in vaccine supply, and the activation of Phases 2 and 3, we are confident that we are winning the battle against COVID-19.”

Bill To Limit Local Health Department Powers During Pandemics Fails In Missouri

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Some law makers in the state capitol want to put checks on the powers some local health officials have during a pandemic.

A bill that would have done that failed Wednesday night when State Senators voted 19-11 to defeat the bill.

A number of Republicans joined the Democrat minority in voting against the bill.

Senator Dave Shatz is on record saying he thinks a compromise is still possible.

Mizzou Chancellor Wants All Employees Back At The School

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All employees at the University of Missouri are expected back to work by May 17th.

Chancellor Mun Choi set the return date in an email sent this week.

Choi’s stressing the fact all Mizzou faculty and staff are eligible for the Coronavirus vaccine starting Monday.

But Choi wants everyone to continue social distancing and to keep wearing masks once they come back to campus.

Missouri Governor Mike Parson announced last week he was moving up the state’s vaccination to March 29th with Phase Two.

Phase Three will begin Friday, April 9th.

Lake Regional CEO Looks Back At 2020 And COVID 19

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Lake Regional’s CEO Dane Henry is looking back at a year that saw hundreds admitted to the ER facing the challenge of surviving COVID.

In a letter to the community, Henry talks about the difficulties and challenges the team at Lake Regional faced, as hundreds of patients from the community were admitted with COVID symptoms, 89 of which alone died from the virus at the hospital.

Henry says they’ve since administered nearly 14,000 vaccines to the community and the positivity rate in Camden County alone has dropped from 6.1% to just 4.1%.

 

Read the full letter below

 

To Our Community:

 

One year ago today, on March 22, 2020, Lake Regional admitted its first COVID-19 positive patient. To say a lot has happened since that day is clearly an understatement.

During the past 12 months, health care providers have had to meet what we hope is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge to rapidly develop testing, treatments and vaccine for a deadly airborne virus.

Along the way our team has mourned losses together – loss of certain social freedoms and connectedness, and loss of life. To date, 89 COVID-positive inpatients have passed away in our care.

 

Lake Regional never laid off or furloughed employees, but many accepted new assignments, such as screening patients at the door or ensuring the safety of coworkers by helping them put on or remove personal protective equipment. I’m proud of the way our team stayed strong during those difficult times.

We’ve also celebrated successes. Since last March, our hospital team has pulled together in dramatic fashion to care for more than 400 COVID-positive inpatients, nearly half of whom required ICU admissions. Throughout that time, we were buoyed by tremendous community support.

Our Laboratory, Emergency Department and Express Care teams rapidly met the challenge of providing testing for our community. In the beginning, we offered only drive-thru options; now testing is available on a walk-in basis at Lake Regional Express Care. More than 20,000 tests have been administered by our health system to-date.

Our clinics quickly ramped up their capacity to offer virtual visits for patients who needed to remain home for their safety or the safety of others. Nearly 7,000 virtual visits have been conducted since March 2020, and this convenient service will continue to be available to our patients.

 

After the spring wave of hospitalizations last year, we experienced a relatively quiet summer followed by an extraordinarily challenging fall. From October to December, our daily census of COVID-positive patients rarely fell below 20. As I said in our December letter to the community, our caregivers felt the burden of loss and it was a heavy toll.

Then, the tide began to turn. Lake Regional employees started receiving COVID-19 vaccine on Dec. 21, 2020. During the past three months, Lake Regional has administered nearly 14,000 total doses of vaccine, including primary and secondary doses. Other community health care providers have been doing this important work, as well. Together, we are bending the COVID curve.

The number of people in our community who have been vaccinated is increasing, and positivity rates are dropping, along with hospitalizations. Camden County’s 7 day positivity rate was 6.1% compared to a state rate of 4.1% as of March 22. Currently, Lake Regional has one positive inpatient after several weeks of the COVID census hovering at either zero or one.

 

Here’s more good news. We just learned that Lake Regional has been selected by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services to receive 500 primary doses of vaccine per week. This confirmation of a steady-stream of vaccine will help us meet the next challenge of vaccinating additional groups as they become eligible. (Visit mostopscovid.com to learn more about vaccine eligibility.)

Now, as we pass the one-year mark in this pandemic marathon, we are looking forward to spring and a season of rebirth. Our health care providers know what’s required and remain cautiously optimistic.

Please help us by doing your part. Mark your calendar for when you become eligible to receive the vaccine and contact your primary care provider to schedule a vaccination appointment. If you don’t have a primary care provider, contact a nearby Lake Regional clinic. You also can register for the state’s Navigator tool at mostopscovid.com.

 

I’ll close this letter where we began a year ago. As I said about Lake Regional in March 22, 2020, we’re all-in — more than 1,500 of us — doctors, nurses, employees, working together to see this through. As always, you can count on us.

 

Our Commitment Runs Deep,
Dane W. Henry, FACHE

Missouri Joins Federal Government In Extending Tax Deadlines

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Governor Mike Parson is announcing the Missouri Department of Revenue will extend the state tax filing and payment deadline from April 15 to May 17, 2021.

The extension falls in line with an extension offered by the IRS nationwide.

Filers will also have the ability to extend any payments due to the IRS until May as well.

 

-o-

 

Governor Parson Announces Individual Tax Filing and Payment Deadline Extended to May 17, 2021

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – Today, Governor Mike Parson announced that the Missouri Department of Revenue is extending the state individual tax filing and payment deadline for the 2020 tax year from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.

“As our state continues recovering from COVID-19, we understand that many Missourians are still feeling the effects of the past year,” Governor Parson said. “Extending the filing and payment deadline by one month will provide additional relief to Missouri families and tax professionals as they work to meet their obligations during what has already been a challenging tax season.”

This decision mirrors Wednesday’s announcement by the U.S. Treasury Department and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) that individual taxpayers would receive automatic extensions to file and pay federal income tax for the 2020 tax year. The IRS has said it will issue formal guidance in the coming days.

The Department of Revenue will automatically provide this filing and payment relief, so filers do not need to take any action to qualify.

Guidance on extension to file and pay individual income tax:

  • Filing deadline extended: The deadline to file individual income tax returns has been extended from April 15, 2021, to May 17, 2021.
  • Payment relief for individuals: The deadline to pay taxes owed on individual income tax returns with a due date of April 15, 2021, has been extended until May 17, 2021.
  • This relief applies to individual taxpayers, including those who pay self-employment tax. However, it does not apply to estimated tax payments that are due on April 15, 2021; that deadline has not changed.
  • Penalties and interest will begin to accrue on any remaining unpaid balances as of May 17, 2021. Individuals that file their return and pay their balance by May 17, 2021, will automatically avoid interest and penalties on the tax paid by May 17.
  • Customers may still ask for an extension of time to file their individual income taxes. With that extension, the return will not be due until October 15, 2021. However, any payments must still be made by May 17, 2021.

Earlier this year, the IRS announced that the nation’s 2021 electronic tax filing season would begin on February 12. On that date, the IRS began accepting and processing e-filed 2020 tax year returns. Since e-filed state returns are first sent to the IRS, the Department also began accepting and processing e-filed returns for the 2020 tax year on February 12.

“With a delayed start and recent tax code changes, this tax season is a particularly complicated one,” said Director of Revenue Ken Zellers. “For Missourians who have yet to file, we strongly encourage you to file electronically and use direct deposit, as it will result in the most accurate return and the fastest refund. We appreciate your patience as we navigate this tax season together, and we stand ready to assist you in any way we can.”

Department of Revenue online services and resources:

  • The Department’s Tax Return Status Tracker allows customers to enroll in automatic text and email alerts that are sent each time the status of their return is updated. Customers need their Social Security number, filing status, and anticipated refund or balance due to enroll and must re-enroll each year.
  • Get answers 24/7 by reviewing the Personal Tax FAQs or with the help of the Department’s chatbot, DORA, a virtual assistant programmed to respond to common taxation, motor vehicle, and driver licensing questions.
  • Email questions to income@dor.mo.gov.

Pulaski Health Department To Hold “Open” COVID Shot Clinic Today In Crocker

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If you’re looking to get your COVID 19 shot in Pulaski County, today is your day.

Officials with the health department say they will be holding a no-appointment needed drive-thru immunization event from 9AM until 2PM today at the Crocker Christian Church.

The vaccine being administered is Pfizer, so there will be a second dose clinic to follow for those who receive a shot today.

Increase Of Vaccine Availability Leads Missouri To Move Towards Phase 3 Sooner Than Expected

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A drop in COVID-19 cases continues across the Lake Area and Missouri.

“Our economy is bouncing back strong. Missouri is still leading the nation, at 2nd lowest of average daily cases….and each day, more and more Missourians are receiving a vaccine” says Governor Mike Parson.

Parson says he’s moving up the timeline for Phase Two and Three of the COVID vaccination timeline “with progress we’re currently seeing and vaccine supply expected to increase significantly in the coming weeks, we will be opening up Phase 2 on Monday March the 29th.”

Phase Two was set to begin 45 days after Phase 1B, Tier Three started Monday, but now it’ll open on March 29th while Phase Three will begin on Friday, April 9th “Phase 3 will be open to all Missouri Adults, extending vaccine availability to an estimated 1.1 Million Missourians.”

Governor Parson says there will be a substantial increase in the amount of vaccine doses available in the coming weeks.

Fort Leonard Wood Rescinds Public Health Emergency – General Order # 6 Remains In Place

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The Public Health Emergency at the Fort Leonard Wood Base has been rescinded as of Monday this week.

Officials say improved conditions allowed for the order to be rescinded, however General Order #6 that was signed last month will remain in effect for now.

The goal now is to gradually reduce the number of employees working from home and bring them back into their regular on-base locations.

Masks will still be required for all ongoing meetings and events until further notice.

 

-o-

 

Post changes HPCON level to Bravo plus

Public Affairs Office

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. (March 15, 2021) — As leaders here continually assess COVID-19 protection and mitigation measures, the Maneuver Support Center of Excellence and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general has updated guidance and policies regarding the installation’s COVID-19 control measures.

Effective March 15, the health protection condition, also known as HPCON, changed from Charlie to Bravo plus and the Public Health Emergency is rescinded. General Order No. 6, dated Feb. 5 and signed by Maj. Gen. James Bonner, MSCoE and Fort Leonard Wood commanding general, remains in effect.

Under HPCON Bravo plus:

— Leaders and supervisors will gradually reduce the number of employees who are teleworking daily in an effort to steadily return to normal staffing within the workplace while balancing telework and rotational schedules for at-risk employees. Employees should contact their immediate supervisors with any questions.

— In-person meetings are allowed but all attendees must follow the 3Ws: wash hands for at least 20 seconds, wear masks and watch their distance.

— Official gatherings are allowed in venues where the 3Ws can be followed.

— In-classroom learning for professional military education, initial military training, Noncommissioned Officers Academy, and MSCoE staff and faculty courses may resume but distance learning remains encouraged when feasible.

— Large gatherings of less than 50 but more than 25 people must be staffed through the Public Health Emergency Officer for review prior to approval by the first O-6 commander in the chain of command.

— For gatherings that will have more than 50 people attending, organizations must submit specific details of the event to include COVID-19 mitigations through their O-6 commander, the Public Health Emergency Officer and Garrison before submitting to the MSCoE Chief of Staff for approval. FLW Form 1416 should be used for routing and approval of all events.

— Installation access for non-Department of Defense ID card holders requires an exception to policy approved by the Garrison Commander.

— Only mission-essential TDYs will be approved.

— Service members in a training status will continue to conduct a 14-day restriction of movement upon arrival to Fort Leonard Wood.

— Graduations remain virtual only and family days remain canceled until further notice.

As a reminder, a face covering that covers the nose and mouth is required at all times in facilities on Fort Leonard Wood, except for:

— Children under the age of 2.

— Any person with a medical condition or disability documented by a physician that prevents them from wearing a face covering or face shield. Civilian employees are required to obtain a documented reasonable accommodation.

— Any person who is in a personal office of similar private space while no others are present.

— Any person exercising in an on-post physical fitness center who can maintain social distance.

— When outdoors, as long as social distancing can be maintained.

— When a commander determines its use creates a hazard or safety concern.

— When in private homes or hotel rooms. For clarity, when congregating in open barracks bays or three-person rooms, continue mask wear at all times unless sleeping or performing personal hygiene or training where mask wear is not possible.

— When passing through any MSCoE or Fort Leonard Wood access control point.

In addition, all service members, civilian employees and family members should continue to follow the three Ws — wash your hands for at least 20 seconds, wear masks and watch your distance — and anyone not feeling well should stay home, seek medical advice and notify supervisors to develop a plan to work from home if possible.

COVID Numbers Continue To Drop Across The State And Across The Lake

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COVID-19 numbers continue a downward trend across the Show Me State.

“Missouri is still leading the nation, at 2nd lowest of average daily cases” says Governor Mike Parson.

The state’s seven-day positivity rate is down to 4.5-percent, and that matches the number reported in the first week of March.

New data shows that hospitalizations around Missouri also remain below 1-thousand for the second straight week.

Governor Parson says they are working hard to administer the Vaccine to all Missourians, however there are some who choose to not take it “Vaccine interest is often highest in the urban populations.”

He says they are working to add more mass vaccination events to help residents have better access to the vaccine.

An event with Morgan County Health is scheduled for next week at the Versailles High school.

Locally we are at 60 active cases, 23 of which are from Benton, 18 are from Camden, 10 are from Morgan and 9 are from Miller counties.

In total, there have been 9,833 cases since last March, of which 9,558 have recovered and 215 people have died as a result of the virus.

Bill Introduced By Lake Representative Luetkemeyer Would Help Rural Hospitals And Clinics

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Lake Area Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer is introducing legislation to help increase access to health care for rural communities.

The bill would help rural health clinics by correcting reimbursement rates, reducing the cost of care and improving access to medical services.

It would also allow for Rural health centers that are in “mid-build” or “in process” as of March 30th to be able to apply for grandfathering of their reimbursement rates..

 

***Press Release***

 

Luetkemeyer Introduces Bill to Increase Access to Rural Health Care

 

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Blaine Luetkemeyer (MO-03) introduced legislation to increase access to health care for rural and underserved communities by correcting reimbursement rates for Rural Health Clinics (RHCs).

“Rural Health Clinics play a vital role in providing quality, accessible healthcare in rural communities across America. Missouri is actually home to the highest number of rural health clinics in the country, 26 of which are in the Third District. This bill will ensure clinics here in Missouri and nationwide are able to operate and serve as many communities as possible. As our country continues to recover from the pandemic, it is more important than ever that health care services are available to everyone who needs them, regardless of zip code.”

Background:

Congressman Luetkemeyer’s legislation will reduce the cost of care and improve access to medical services for rural Americans by allowing Rural Health Centers (RHCs) owned by small hospitals, and Critical Access Hospitals that are “mid-build” or “in process” as of March 30, 2021, to be able to apply for grandfathering of their reimbursement rates through a rate setting year following their opening. This legislation will correct a drafting error in the CARES Act that set payment rates for provider based RHCs opened in 2020 lower than Congress intended. Several associations have voiced support for the Congressman’s bill.

The Missouri Rural Health Association says:

“Congressman Luetkemeyer’s bill makes an important and necessary change, allowing rural hospitals that were already in the process of establishing provider-based RHCs to complete their planning and conversions. Missouri’s rural health infrastructure depends on these clinics to provide quality healthcare to our rural constituents and we are grateful for the Congressman’s efforts on this matter.”

The Missouri Farm Bureau President Garrett Hawkins says:

“Ever since my great aunt and uncle founded the rural hospital we still use in Appleton City, our family has known firsthand how important rural healthcare is. It is already extremely difficult for rural providers to stay in business serving our communities. We cannot allow senseless bureaucratic rules to make it any harder on them. We applaud Congressman Luetkemeyer for recognizing a problem caused by the CARES Act and working quickly to fix it. His legislation will ensure that our rural healthcare centers are paid fairly for the critical services they provide, helping them stay strong and continue serving rural communities. I look forward to working with Congressman Luetkemeyer to stop this unfair treatment of rural healthcare providers.”

The Missouri Hospital Association says:

“The Missouri Hospital Association appreciates Congressman Luetkemeyer’s leadership in sponsoring this legislation. It will help small rural hospitals avoid being penalized by changing the federal rules in the middle of a clinic development project.”

Lake Representative Pollock Introduces Immunization Requirement Bill For Students

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A Missouri House committee is considering a bill that would relax immunization requirements for students in school.

Lake Area Republican Representative Suzie Pollock of Lebanon is sponsoring the bill that would require only public school students to have immunizations.

But some of those students would be allowed to go to public schools without a specific immunization if they can prove they’re already immune from a given disease.

Pollock says an estimated 500 people have submitted written testimony supporting the proposal.

Camden County Releases Report On How CARES ACT Funding Was Distributed

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A detailed report on where the Cares Act Funding went for Camden County has been officially released.

The county received a total of $5.4 Million dollars from the Federal Government, some of which went back into the county for upgrades such as a Polycom Video System for the Jail and Sheriff’s Office, but most of it went to the people.

“We spread it out to our community. In the schools, the businesses, the other municipalities and fire districts, non-profits and small businesses. So the County could have held all of that but they didn’t, so that was the main goal…that was what it was suppose to be and we tried to do the best job that we could” says County Auditor Jimmy Laughlin.

He tells KRMS News the hardest part was making sure the money was distributed properly and quickly, before the December deadline.

You can see the full report below (At KRMSRADIO.COM):

Where The MONEY WENT 2020 CARES 1.4

Morgan R-2 Schools Relax Sporting Event Limits – Say 0 Cases Of COVID At The Schools

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Morgan County R-2 Schools in Versailles are loosening some of their COVID restrictions.

According to Superintendent Dr. Steven Barnes, the school hit all zeros on their reports Tuesday, meaning there’s no students with COVID, no Teachers with COVID and no one in quarantine.

Because of that, the district is allowing full attendance at all sporting events.

However, wearing a mask will still be required for now.

Barnes says that will be discussed after Teacher’s have had a chance to be vaccinated, which could be finalized next week.

Officials with the Morgan County Health Department say they are planning to hold a vaccine clinic next week at the school.

Sunday Mass Vaccination Event A Success With One Shot Vaccine

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Sunday’s Mass Vaccination event at School of the Osage was successful.

Officials say 2,000 doses of the new Johnson and Johnson vaccine were administered to those with appointments.

The new vaccine, unlike the previous two, only requires one shot so those who received it will not need to return.

Two more COVID vaccination events are scheduled for this week, on Thursday and Friday.

You can find out more about it here: https://covidvaccine.mo.gov/navigator/

COVID 19 Cases Continue To Drop Across The State & The Ozarks

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A reduction in COVID-19 cases across the Lake Area and Missouri continues.

“Virus activity in Missouri has declined for the 7th consecutive week” says Missouri Governor Mike Parson.

He says the 7-day positivity rate across the Show Me State is down to 4.5-percent “and Missouri is still 2nd lowest in the United State of America for average daily cases.”

Governor Parson says COVID-related hospitalizations are below 1-thousand in Missouri for the first time since September.

A vaccination event postponed in February due to severe weather is happening Sunday at School of the Osage, but you must have an appointment to get vaccinated.

Currently the Lake’s local numbers have dropped dramatically with active cases at just 54, after being in the 200’s on Monday.

Out of the total 9,791 cases reported since March, 9,524 people have since recovered and 213 people have died from the virus.

Mass COVID 19 Vaccination Event Takes Place This Sunday At School Of The Osage

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A Lake Area COVID-19 vaccination event postponed in February is happening on Sunday at School of the Osage.

“We look forward to really a great day. I think we have a process that we’ve put in place here, working with other local agencies, that will help to make this a really easy seamless event and we’re just excited to do this finally.”

Speaking on the Ozarks Today with Christian Blood, Lake Regional CEO Dane Henry says the vaccine offered at this event only requires one shot, as opposed to two.

“The Johnson and Johnson vaccine is a single shot. So you come in, get your shot, and you never have to see us again.”

Henry says there is a difference between Sunday’s one-shot COVID-19 vaccine and others that require two shots.

“Pfizer was the first to get the emergency approval from the FDA. Shortly after, Moderna got their approval for their vaccine…both are a two-shot series vaccine.”

Henry says Sunday’s vaccination event is not open to those who don’t have an appointment.

Henry also says the National Guard will be bringing 25-hundred doses of the new COVID-19 vaccine.

 

Lake Area Agencies Host Mass Vaccine Event, March 7

Slots Already Filled for Region F Event in Osage Beach

 

OSAGE BEACH, Mo. — Organizers are using names already on waiting lists to fill appointments for a mass vaccination event coming to Osage Beach on March 7.

Lake area health departments and Lake Regional Health System, in partnership with the Missouri National Guard and the Department of Health and Senior Services, are working alongside first responders to plan the mass vaccination event, scheduled Sunday, March 7, at the School of the Osage. Coordinating agencies include public health, health care, fire and police officials. This event, which was postponed from February due to weather, will provide vaccination appointments to 2,500 area residents who have already joined waiting lists.

“Providing vaccines to our community has been an incredible lift to our team, and we are eager to continue this good work,” said Dane W. Henry, FACHE, CEO of Lake Regional Health System.

Overall, demand for COVID-19 vaccination is still greater than the supply providers in the area have received from the state.

“This mass vaccination event is an opportunity to reach people in our community who have been patiently waiting for the vaccine,” said Stephanie Dake, administrator of Camden County Health Department. “With the help of several local partners, we will make a big impact in one day.”

Organizers emphasize that they are drawing exclusively from names already on waiting lists, so there is no opportunity now for someone to sign up for this event.

All participants will be scheduled in advance for appointments. Representatives from participating agencies have begun contacting individuals to schedule appointments. No walk-ins will be accepted.

“All of the agencies involved are firmly committed to providing a safe, orderly environment for participants,” Dake said. “We believe a scheduled, indoor event will best meet the needs of all involved.”

 

The following are collaborating to host this event.

 

  • Camden County EMA and Community Emergency Response Team
  • Camden County Health Department
  • Central Ozarks Medical Center
  • Lake Ozark Fire Department
  • LakeRegional Health System
  • Mid-County Fire Protection District
  • Miller County Ambulance
  • Miller County Health Department
  • Miller County EMA
  • Miller County Sheriff’s Department
  • Missouri National Guard
  • Missouri State Highway Patrol
  • Morgan County Health Department
  • Osage Beach Police Department
  • Osage Beach Fire Department
  • School of the Osage

 

Participants are urged to arrive no more than 15 minutes prior to their scheduled time. Individuals will be verified as they enter the lot, and only those with appointments will be allowed to park. Participants should bring a photo ID and mask. To download and complete consent forms in advance, visit lakeregional.com/vaccineforms.

 

Currently, Missouri is vaccinating Phase 1A populations and 1B Tier 1 and 2 populations. The Johnson & Johnson vaccine, which only requires one dose, will be given at this mass vaccination site. It is not recommended for individuals who have experienced a severe allergic reaction to any ingredient in the vaccine. For information on vaccine components, visit www.fda.gov/media/146305/download.

 

To view eligibility criteria for Phase 1A and 1B Tier 1 and 2, visit mostopscovid.com. Individuals will be screened and approved according to these eligibility criteria.

For more information, contact the Camden County Health Department at 573-346-5479 or lakeregional.com/vaccine. For more information about the COVID-19 vaccine, visit MOStopsCOVID.com.

To learn more about future vaccination opportunities or to register for notifications, visit covidvaccine.mo.gov/navigator or call 877-435-8411.

If you need to be removed from the Lake Regional waiting list, please fill out the form at lakeregional.com/removeme.

COVID 19 Cases Across The State Decline For 5th Straight Week

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The Governor of Missouri’s giving an update on COVID-19 cases in the state.

“We are happy to report that he coronavirus activity in Missouri has declined for the 5th consecutive week.”

Governor Mike Parson also says Missouri is fourth-lowest in the U-S in average daily cases.

“Our 7 day positive rate is down to 7% and our 7 day average for new cases, is approximately 533 cases per day, a number we have not seen since June.”

Lake Area cases of Coronavirus are down around 50-percent since December.

Camden County currently has 302 active cases, while Benton has 24, Miller has 16 and Morgan has 14.

Since last March, there have been a total of 9,691 positive cases reported, of which 9,131 people have recovered and 204 people have died from the virus.

 

Governor Parson Provides Update on COVID-19 in Missouri

Highlights Vaccine Success, Encouraging Case Data 

(JEFFERSON CITY, MO) – During today’s press briefing at the State Capitol, Governor Mike Parson provided an update on COVID-19 data and vaccine administration in Missouri.

“Missouri continues to make great strides in administering the vaccine across the state,” Governor Parson said. “As supply continues to gradually increase, more and more Missourians will have an opportunity to receive a vaccine. However, it is important to remain patient and understand that the demand for vaccines will still far outweigh supply for some time.”

At the start of this week, approximately 1,115,100 first and second vaccine doses had been shipped to Missouri. Please note that the number of vaccines shipped does not equate to the number of vaccines received by state vaccinators. The 1,115,100 vaccines shipped includes doses allocated to CVS and Walgreens through the federal pharmacy partnership to vaccinate residents and staff at long-term care facilities. Of these doses, 79.5 percent have been reported as administered.

Excluding vaccines shipped to CVS and Walgreens, 903,700 first and second doses have been shipped to Missouri vaccinators as of February 16. Of these doses, 86.2 percent have been reported as administered.

As of February 17, Missouri providers have administered approximately 940,000 total doses of the COVID-19 vaccine to citizens across the state. Nearly 667,000, or 11 percent, of Missourians have received an initial dose vaccination. Collectively, Missouri vaccinators have demonstrated the capacity to administer nearly 50,000 vaccines daily once supply will consistently allow. Administration capacity will only increase as more vaccinators are onboarded.

The state also continues to move forward with regional mass vaccination events. To date, the Missouri National Guard, Department of Health and Senior Services, State Emergency Management Agency, and local health care partners have completed 27 mass vaccination clinics across the state. More than 50,000 Missourians have received an initial vaccine dose at one of these events.

Targeted vaccination teams are also fully operational in St. Louis and Kansas City. After the first round of events, these four man teams have administered more than 2,000 initial doses in Kansas City and St. Louis. These vaccines have gone to vulnerable populations in communities with limited access to health care.

Missouri has mechanisms in place to ensure the most equitable and efficient vaccine distribution as possible. Recently, there has been increased attention on vaccine allocation to the St. Louis region. To date, Highway Patrol Region C, which represent 37 percent of the state’s population, has received 315,200 doses, or 35 percent, of the 898,175 doses delivered to Missouri vaccinators. That amount does not include vaccines allocated to federal partners.

The St. Louis metropolitan area – which includes Jefferson County, St. Charles County, St. Louis County, and St. Louis City and represents approximately 31 percent of Missouri’s population – has received 282,300 doses, or 31.4 percent, of the state’s total vaccine allocation.

In addition to vaccine successes, Governor Parson also highlighted encouraging signs in Missouri’s COVID-19 data.

“We are happy to report that COVID-19 activity in Missouri has declined for the fifth consecutive week. The continued decrease in our positivity rate shows that Missourians are taking the necessary precautions to protect themselves and their loved ones,” Governor Parson said. “Our administration has never wavered in our balanced approach to addressing this pandemic, and we know we are on the right track to winning the fight against COVID-19.”

Missouri’s seven-day PCR positivity rate has fallen to 7 percent, and the antigen (rapid) test rate has fallen to 5.1 percent. The state’s current seven-day case average is approximately 533 cases per day – a number that has not been this low since June of last year.

Missouri data shows also that since a peak of 7,616 new cases reported on November 9, new daily case volume has fallen 95 percent to only 346 confirmed cases on February 15. Over the past 14 days alone, data reporting by the New York Times shows that Missouri’s volume of new COVID-19 cases and number of hospitalizations have fallen by 42 percent and 22 percent, respectively.

“We are confident that these current trends will continue if Missourians stay committed to practicing COVID-19 preventative measures, including social distancing, wearing a mask, washing their hands, and avoiding unnecessary large gatherings,” Governor Parson continued.

Missourians are encouraged to visit MOStopsCOVID.com to view the latest vaccine updates, find out when they are eligible for the vaccine, and locate available vaccinators in their area.