Great Bend Pride weekly challenge...

Barton County buildings have been restricted to the public. Please call the county office you wish to transact business with for more information. You can also visit the website at: www.bartoncounty.org for more information and instruction on how to conduct business with the County at this time. We cannot stress enough the need to practice good hygiene and maintain social distancing by using the County’s online functions, emailing or calling ahead for assistance. County officials will continue to provide further information as it becomes available.

10th Street Eyecare Center-Lobby Closed to Public

Countryside Veterinary Associates-Curb Side Service

DREAM, Inc. Clients need to call 620-792-5152 to schedule telephone sessions if you have not done so.  No groups will be held effective immediately

Fort Larned Museum (parks and grounds open)

Great Bend City Buildings (Closed to Public): City Hall, Front Door, Police Department, Municipal Department, Fire Department, Codes &amp; Inspections, Events Center, Brit Spaugh Zoo &amp; Raptor Center, Department of Public Works' Building, Department of Public Land's Building, All City Parks, All other Buildings where Great Bend City operations are conducted

Great Bend Health Department- by Appointment only&nbsp;

H &amp; B Communication of Holyrood and Ellinwood- front office’s are closed/they are available by phone and payments can be made online

Lone Wold Restaurant-Carry-Out and in town Delivery&nbsp;

Russell Eyecare Center-Lobby Closed to Public

THE ANIMAL CARE HOSPITAL-Lobby is Closed-Offering Car side Veterinary services. Please call in advance . They are also delivering animal medicine, food, and other supplies as needed.&nbsp;

Wheatland Cafe-Cafe and Catering Closed (Wheatland Wagon Is Coming To Great Bend)

Woelk's House of Diamonds, The Kitchen Vault and Espresso Etc. in downtown Russell

Restaurants:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greatbend.org/dining-during-covid-19">https://www.greatbend.org/dining-during-covid-19</a>

Kansas Association of Broadcasters Annual Student Seminar&nbsp;

Kansas Oil and Gas Museum Foundation 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Dinner and Ceremony

Catholic Charities Roaring 20's Wine Tasting&nbsp;

Need to report a cancellation?&nbsp; Email <a href="mailto:gbpostevents@eagleradio.net">gbpostevents@eagleradio.net</a>, or call 620-792-3647.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584642475699.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Closings:Barton County buildings have been restricted to the public. Please call the county office you wish to transact business with for more information. You can also visit the website at: www.bartoncounty.org for more information and instruction on how to conduct business with the County at this time. We cannot stress enough the need to practice good hygiene and maintain social distancing by using the County’s online functions, emailing or calling ahead for assistance. County officials will continue to provide further information as it becomes available.10th Street Eyecare Center-Lobby Closed to Public1st Assembly of GodAmerican Legion Post 180&nbsp;&nbsp;Animal Medical Center (Ellinwood)Animal Medical Center-Curbside CareBuckleCharlie’s Place&nbsp;Club 1 FitnessCountryside Veterinary Associates-Curb Side ServiceDREAM, Inc. Clients need to call 620-792-5152 to schedule telephone sessions if you have not done so. No groups will be held effective immediatelyEllinwood Rec CenterFort Larned Museum (parks and grounds open)Golden Belt Cinema 6Great Bend City Buildings (Closed to Public): City Hall, Front Door, Police Department, Municipal Department, Fire Department, Codes &amp; Inspections, Events Center, Brit Spaugh Zoo &amp; Raptor Center, Department of Public Works' Building, Department of Public Land's Building, All City Parks, All other Buildings where Great Bend City operations are conductedGreat Bend Health Department- by Appointment only&nbsp;Great Bend Public LibraryGreat Bend RecGreat Bend Senior CenterH &amp; B Communication of Holyrood and Ellinwood- front office’s are closed/they are available by phone and payments can be made onlineHoisington Rec Center&nbsp;Hoisington PlaygroundsHoisington Utility BuildingLone Wold Restaurant-Carry-Out and in town Delivery&nbsp;Nex-Tech-Closed to Walk-in TrafficRussell Eyecare Center-Lobby Closed to PublicTHE ANIMAL CARE HOSPITAL-Lobby is Closed-Offering Car side Veterinary services. Please call in advance . They are also delivering animal medicine, food, and other supplies as needed.&nbsp;USD 428 SchoolsWheatland Cafe-Cafe and Catering Closed (Wheatland Wagon Is Coming To Great Bend)Woelk's House of Diamonds, The Kitchen Vault and Espresso Etc. in downtown RussellRestaurants:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.greatbend.org/dining-during-covid-19">https://www.greatbend.org/dining-during-covid-19</a>Cancellations:April 7th&nbsp;Kansas Association of Broadcasters Annual Student Seminar&nbsp;April 8th-10thGreat Bend Farm, Ranch, &amp; Hemp ExpoSaturday, April 18th&nbsp;Kansas Oil and Gas Museum Foundation 2020 Hall of Fame Induction Dinner and CeremonyPilot Club-Autism Work Shop&nbsp;Friday, April 24th&nbsp;Catholic Charities Roaring 20's Wine Tasting&nbsp;Need to report a cancellation?&nbsp; Email <a href="mailto:gbpostevents@eagleradio.net">gbpostevents@eagleradio.net</a>, or call 620-792-3647.

Latest Cancellations and Closings 

The Barton County Young Professionals and the Great Bend Rotary Club’s 8th-annual supply drive will be hosted online. Every year, the groups collect food, toiletries and more for the Barton County Food Bank and Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas. This year, due to supply shortages, the annual collection will be held online.

“We are living in a time of uncertainty, which hits those in need incredibly hard,” Haley Ruble, Chair of the Barton County Young Professionals group said. “We wanted to find a way to support these organizations and allow them to collect the goods that they need most.”

You can donate to the annual supply drive through a GoFundMe account set up by the young professionals’ group. The funds raised will be equally divided between the Catholic Charities and the Barton County Food Bank. Donations are being accepted now at https://www.gofundme.com/f/supply-drive-for-catholic-charities-and-food-bank. The link is also online on the Barton County Young Professionals’ website at www.bartonyp.com

Barton County Young Professionals (BCYP) exists to provide leadership, networking &amp; volunteer opportunities. BCYP is a free membership organization for anyone 21-40ish who lives or works in the Barton County area. Over 750 individuals currently participate in BCYP membership. To learn more about the benefits of membership or to see an event schedule, visit www.BartonYP.com or call the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce &amp; Economic Development at 620-792-2401.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584563913096.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Barton County Young Professionals and the Great Bend Rotary Club’s 8th-annual supply drive will be hosted online. Every year, the groups collect food, toiletries and more for the Barton County Food Bank and Catholic Charities of Southwest Kansas. This year, due to supply shortages, the annual collection will be held online.“We are living in a time of uncertainty, which hits those in need incredibly hard,” Haley Ruble, Chair of the Barton County Young Professionals group said. “We wanted to find a way to support these organizations and allow them to collect the goods that they need most.”You can donate to the annual supply drive through a GoFundMe account set up by the young professionals’ group. The funds raised will be equally divided between the Catholic Charities and the Barton County Food Bank. Donations are being accepted now at https://www.gofundme.com/f/supply-drive-for-catholic-charities-and-food-bank. The link is also online on the Barton County Young Professionals’ website at www.bartonyp.comBarton County Young Professionals (BCYP) exists to provide leadership, networking &amp; volunteer opportunities. BCYP is a free membership organization for anyone 21-40ish who lives or works in the Barton County area. Over 750 individuals currently participate in BCYP membership. To learn more about the benefits of membership or to see an event schedule, visit www.BartonYP.com or call the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce &amp; Economic Development at 620-792-2401.

Annual supply drive benefiting Catholic Charities and Food Bank goes online

Due to the concerns caused by the coronavirus (COVID – 19) pandemic, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum/?__tn__=K-R&amp;eid=ARA4S_K4kVzSTFb2f9fG3Fju1E938WDJ__cxLkkslMrkTRD4__eBJqcfb0MSBESowYKhLl7rrMZc40FC&amp;fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARAprZil6hc3c7g0ToFupRoBD69IUylQXtbESOY8frLeafrfqco0gI7xPfCbBVelnhxbP3Pra-AsqgZCL2TBFBBlEJSK5lTU1foAiFFPdi02ejh3cA3UKy--JqUkuvB-_Q8AxV4QeTzshUIeABxmYU0E8q8P-Bq51vusE7rh8BewyIrBD6ZIY3rgLDobgZkeHXZDLODtiAM56R6MxaBNQvZfVO45qe3HLATi1qQPTVlEdxPKoM4gmxWAuA7xAnMxieXUdumltqUjZoBFdIASc3dRHwRVWGvqdwCspOunXHZyAYcRWmjz3K_iB5uofTh-sti6NhhqkRgIhqT8UuiScLdvIw">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>&nbsp;will be closed until further notice. All Sternberg Museum public events including, Pokémon Day and the Bug Whisperer, are postponed. Please check our website and our social media regularly for updates.

We understand our patrons will be disappointed with this news. However, we have come up with a bit of a solution. Starting this week, the staff at the Sternberg Museum will be hosting a Facebook Live mini-series called the Dome from Home.&nbsp;Get your natural history fix here as museum staff discusses topics from prehistoric monsters to modern-day marvels. See live feeding and care of the Sternberg animals or get a live tour of our collections. Tune in twice a day Monday – Friday at 10 am and 2 pm CST.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum">https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum</a>

Please keep an eye on our website and social media for any updates to the hours of operations. We will keep you informed of any changes.

Due to the concerns caused by the coronavirus (COVID – 19) pandemic, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum/?__tn__=K-R&amp;eid=ARA4S_K4kVzSTFb2f9fG3Fju1E938WDJ__cxLkkslMrkTRD4__eBJqcfb0MSBESowYKhLl7rrMZc40FC&amp;fref=mentions&amp;__xts__%5B0%5D=68.ARAprZil6hc3c7g0ToFupRoBD69IUylQXtbESOY8frLeafrfqco0gI7xPfCbBVelnhxbP3Pra-AsqgZCL2TBFBBlEJSK5lTU1foAiFFPdi02ejh3cA3UKy--JqUkuvB-_Q8AxV4QeTzshUIeABxmYU0E8q8P-Bq51vusE7rh8BewyIrBD6ZIY3rgLDobgZkeHXZDLODtiAM56R6MxaBNQvZfVO45qe3HLATi1qQPTVlEdxPKoM4gmxWAuA7xAnMxieXUdumltqUjZoBFdIASc3dRHwRVWGvqdwCspOunXHZyAYcRWmjz3K_iB5uofTh-sti6NhhqkRgIhqT8UuiScLdvIw">Sternberg Museum of Natural History</a>&nbsp;will be closed until further notice. All Sternberg Museum public events including, Pokémon Day and the Bug Whisperer, are postponed. Please check our website and our social media regularly for updates.We understand our patrons will be disappointed with this news. However, we have come up with a bit of a solution. Starting this week, the staff at the Sternberg Museum will be hosting a Facebook Live mini-series called the Dome from Home.&nbsp;Get your natural history fix here as museum staff discusses topics from prehistoric monsters to modern-day marvels. See live feeding and care of the Sternberg animals or get a live tour of our collections. Tune in twice a day Monday – Friday at 10 am and 2 pm CST.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum">https://www.facebook.com/sternberg.museum</a>Please keep an eye on our website and social media for any updates to the hours of operations. We will keep you informed of any changes.Stay healthy and safe!

Sternberg Museum-Dome From Home-Monday-Friday 10AM & 2PM CST

Because we love our Chamber Members and Community and due to the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and in alignment with the Center for Disease Control, local, state and federal authorities' recommendations, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce will be launching Facebook Live Only Chamber Coffees over the next 4-8 weeks in place of the normal in-person Chamber Coffee programs. Tune in live Thursday!

﻿This
means at 9:30a.m. Thursday morning you can grab your cup of coffee and join us
from home or office on the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce <a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=2628335&amp;msgid=772170&amp;act=G5RV&amp;c=116427&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgbcoc%2F" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page and watch
the week’s host business share all of the great things they’re continuing to do
for this great community and the customers they serve. And just like our normal
in-person Chamber Coffee attendees, those watching the Live Coffee will have a
chance to ask questions of the host, listen to that week’s announcements and
yes, win door prizes! How can you win?! Tune in to find out!

Because we love our Chamber Members and Community and due to the current situation with the COVID-19 pandemic and in alignment with the Center for Disease Control, local, state and federal authorities' recommendations, the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce will be launching Facebook Live Only Chamber Coffees over the next 4-8 weeks in place of the normal in-person Chamber Coffee programs. Tune in live Thursday!What does this mean?﻿This
means at 9:30a.m. Thursday morning you can grab your cup of coffee and join us
from home or office on the Great Bend Chamber of Commerce <a href="https://click.icptrack.com/icp/relay.php?r=2628335&amp;msgid=772170&amp;act=G5RV&amp;c=116427&amp;destination=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fgbcoc%2F" target="_blank">Facebook</a> page and watch
the week’s host business share all of the great things they’re continuing to do
for this great community and the customers they serve. And just like our normal
in-person Chamber Coffee attendees, those watching the Live Coffee will have a
chance to ask questions of the host, listen to that week’s announcements and
yes, win door prizes! How can you win?! Tune in to find out!

Great Bend Chamber of Commerce-Chamber Coffees-Facebook Live-Thursdays

USD 428-

&nbsp;USD 428 Food &amp; Nutrition Program will begin free meal service for students 18 and under.

from 11 am-1 pm, a meal package containing lunch and breakfast for the following day can be picked up at all five elementary locations and the Central Kitchen.

Please complete a brief survey to help us prepare at these pick-up locations.

English -&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/PU9XCiPL22RQqeV76?fbclid=IwAR0GltOIPSqxyKHvUqYibpvkGGQ1Se4RYJe8sdcor1MBq4uEzKICop3xbYA" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/PU9XCiPL22RQqeV76</a>

Spanish -&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/ThHsqqsNMzKEssYk8?fbclid=IwAR3IrMbshOduZ0vMCH_UEk26Eu-3OrE6qhHgoVgiqQDbqOOiuXrTBRturzA" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/ThHsqqsNMzKEssYk8</a>

Students can walk-up, or lunch will be picked-up car-side, (children must be present in the vehicle to pick-up the meal).

&nbsp;Anyone 18 &amp; under can receive the free meal package, no questions asked

Area children are welcome, you are not required to attend USD 428



RePerks-With Kansas closing schools&nbsp; we understand
that this may cause difficulties for some of the families in our community and
those surrounding us.

If you’re worried about your
children being able to have a decent lunch, please stop by RePerks in Great
Bend for a free, to go, sack lunch containing a sandwich, chips, fruit &nbsp;and a cookie. We are dedicated to the
community and will do everything possible to help get through this, together, as
a community.

These sack lunches will be available
from 7a.m. to 11 a.m. 

Great Bend Coffee- Offering School age Kids

USD 428-

&nbsp;USD 428 Food &amp; Nutrition Program will begin free meal service for students 18 and under.from 11 am-1 pm, a meal package containing lunch and breakfast for the following day can be picked up at all five elementary locations and the Central Kitchen.Please complete a brief survey to help us prepare at these pick-up locations.English -&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/PU9XCiPL22RQqeV76?fbclid=IwAR0GltOIPSqxyKHvUqYibpvkGGQ1Se4RYJe8sdcor1MBq4uEzKICop3xbYA" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/PU9XCiPL22RQqeV76</a>Spanish -&nbsp;<a href="https://forms.gle/ThHsqqsNMzKEssYk8?fbclid=IwAR3IrMbshOduZ0vMCH_UEk26Eu-3OrE6qhHgoVgiqQDbqOOiuXrTBRturzA" target="_blank">https://forms.gle/ThHsqqsNMzKEssYk8</a>Students can walk-up, or lunch will be picked-up car-side, (children must be present in the vehicle to pick-up the meal).&nbsp;Anyone 18 &amp; under can receive the free meal package, no questions askedArea children are welcome, you are not required to attend USD 428

RePerks-With Kansas closing schools&nbsp; we understand
that this may cause difficulties for some of the families in our community and
those surrounding us.If you’re worried about your
children being able to have a decent lunch, please stop by RePerks in Great
Bend for a free, to go, sack lunch containing a sandwich, chips, fruit &nbsp;and a cookie. We are dedicated to the
community and will do everything possible to help get through this, together, as
a community.These sack lunches will be available
from 7a.m. to 11 a.m. Dennis Crouse&nbsp;&nbsp; Owner Re-Perks1216 Main St. (downtown Great
Bend)Great Bend Coffee- Offering School age Kids Breakfast -&nbsp; 7a.m. to 10a.mLunch - 10:30a.m. to 3p.m stop in and eat or get it to go2015 Lakin Ave.

Free Sack Lunch For Children-USD 428, RePerks, Great Bend Coffee 

Great Bend Bat Cats 1st Annual "Get Whatever You Want" Raffle 

Details on future online Great Bend City Council meetings

TuesdayA 10 percent chance of showers before 7am. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 65. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.

Tuesday NightClear, with a low around 43. South wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.

WednesdayMostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph increasing to 21 to 26 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.

Wednesday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 52. Breezy.

ThursdayPartly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy.

Thursday NightA chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 2am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

FridayRain and snow showers likely before noon, then a slight chance of rain showers between noon and 2pm. Some thunder is also possible. Partly sunny, with a high near 50. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.

Friday NightA slight chance of rain and snow showers between 2am and 4am, then a slight chance of snow showers after 4am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

SaturdayA 20 percent chance of snow showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.

Saturday NightA 30 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.

SundayA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 68.

Sunday NightA 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.

MondayA 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585602385703.jpeg" alt="Tuesday Outlook" />
 <figcaption>Tuesday Outlook</figcaption>
 </figure>TuesdayA 10 percent chance of showers before 7am. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 65. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south southwest in the afternoon.Tuesday NightClear, with a low around 43. South wind 11 to 16 mph, with gusts as high as 24 mph.WednesdayMostly sunny, with a high near 70. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph increasing to 21 to 26 mph in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 36 mph.Wednesday NightMostly cloudy, with a low around 52. Breezy.ThursdayPartly sunny, with a high near 73. Breezy.Thursday NightA chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 2am, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 2am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 34. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.FridayRain and snow showers likely before noon, then a slight chance of rain showers between noon and 2pm. Some thunder is also possible. Partly sunny, with a high near 50. Breezy. Chance of precipitation is 60%.Friday NightA slight chance of rain and snow showers between 2am and 4am, then a slight chance of snow showers after 4am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 30. Chance of precipitation is 20%.SaturdayA 20 percent chance of snow showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 58.Saturday NightA 30 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42.SundayA 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 68.Sunday NightA 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 48.MondayA 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 73.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Tuesday Weather

Barton County Health Department reposted these guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment if you are notified as a contact of someone positive with COVID-19.

Barton County Health Department reposted these guidelines from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment if you are notified as a contact of someone positive with COVID-19.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2Fbartoncountyhealthdept%2Fposts%2F231281534920581&width=500" width="500" height="669" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Guidelines if you're a contact of someone positive with COVID-19

March 30th COVID-19 Update from Clara Barton Hospital &amp; Clinics

· We have implemented a temporary No Visitor Policy effective immediately at Clara Barton Hospital. Exceptions to this policy may be made on a case by case basis regarding end-of-life situations. These changes reflect Clara Barton Hospital’s commitment to ensure the safety of our patients, employees and communities and to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Please understand this is not an easy decision and not meant to be impolite, but we feel it is necessary at this time. We will lift this restriction as soon as we feel it is safe to do so. We appreciate your cooperation during this difficult time.

While our no-visitor policy is in place, please consider an alternate means of providing support:

- Facetime or Skype the patient - Send a digital greeting via https://www.clarabartonhospital.com/send-an-ecard

· Walk-In Clinic and Walk-In Lab Draws at all Clara Barton Medical Clinics have been suspended until further notice. Please call the Clinic to make an appointment.

· Clara Barton Medical Clinic is now offering tele-health services, allowing you to be seen by your provider in the comfort of your own home. If you wish to schedule a tele-health visit with your provider, please call the clinic at 620-653-2386.

· If you come to a Clara Barton Clinic and are asked to wear a mask, please do not remove the mask until you have left the facility.

The Staff at Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics have been working around the clock to ensure the safety of both our patients and our staff. We will continue to keep you informed of the latest updates and procedures being implemented at Clara Barton to better protect you, your family, patients, and Clara Barton Employees. Please know we are fully prepared to care for you in the event you or a loved one are diagnosed with the virus and are doing our very best to help prevent the spread of this virus throughout our communities. Together we will get through this!

- Patients arriving at both Clara Barton Hospital or any Clara Barton Medical Clinic will be met at the door by a Clara Barton staff member who will immediately initiate a screening. Please be sure to stop and allow for these screening procedures, as it will assist us in determining if the patient has symptoms of the coronavirus. The staff member may ask you to put on a mask. If you are asked to wear a mask, please do so in order to protect both yourself and other patients. Do not remove your mask until you have left the facility.

- The front door to Clara Barton Hospital will be unlocked from 6 AM – 6 PM. Upon arrival you will be screened by a CBH staff member. From 6 PM – 6 AM the hospital doors will remain locked. Patients are asked to ring the buzzer on the outside of the front door and screening questions will be asked via intercom before the patient can enter the building. Clinic doors will be unlocked at their usual time and staff will initiate a screening upon entering the lobby.

- If you feel as if you have symptoms of the coronavirus and plan to be seen at the clinic or in the ER, please call us before your arrival at 620-653-2386. Calling ahead allows us to take the proper precautions necessary in order to avoid the potential spread of the virus to other patients or staff members. When you call, your call will be triaged and you will be asked a few questions. They will then direct you to the appropriate area of the hospital or clinic.

- There is criteria that has been put into place in order to be tested for the coronavirus, but we do not set this criteria. Criteria is set by the KDHE and CDC, therefore you may or may not be tested for the virus depending upon your symptoms, travel history, and other conditions. If you develop symptoms, please contact your primary care provider for further direction.

- We encourage you to continue practicing good hand hygiene and social distancing to help prevent the spread of this virus. This includes social distancing in our lobby areas. Please ensure there are at least 2 chairs between you other patients sitting in the lobby.

- As your local community healthcare facility, we are following the recommendations set forth by the American College of Surgeons, the CDC, and KDHE recommending we halt all elective surgeries at this time. We are doing this in the best interest of our patients in order to avoid potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Emergency surgeries will still be performed as needed. Although there are currently no cases in the county, we are following these precautionary measures to protect the health and wellbeing of our patients.

- There will be no outreach clinic visits at any of our clinic locations through the end of April. Please contact your outreach provider if you have questions regarding your appointment.

For more information on the coronavirus, please visit our website at https://www.clarabartonhospital.com/coronavirus-information, the KDHE website at http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/, or call the Barton County Coronavirus Hotline at 620-796-5609.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584124962921.png" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>March 30th COVID-19 Update from Clara Barton Hospital &amp; ClinicsUPDATES:· We have implemented a temporary No Visitor Policy effective immediately at Clara Barton Hospital. Exceptions to this policy may be made on a case by case basis regarding end-of-life situations. These changes reflect Clara Barton Hospital’s commitment to ensure the safety of our patients, employees and communities and to help stop the spread of COVID-19. Please understand this is not an easy decision and not meant to be impolite, but we feel it is necessary at this time. We will lift this restriction as soon as we feel it is safe to do so. We appreciate your cooperation during this difficult time.While our no-visitor policy is in place, please consider an alternate means of providing support:- Call or text the patient- Facetime or Skype the patient - Send a digital greeting via https://www.clarabartonhospital.com/send-an-ecard· Walk-In Clinic and Walk-In Lab Draws at all Clara Barton Medical Clinics have been suspended until further notice. Please call the Clinic to make an appointment.· Clara Barton Medical Clinic is now offering tele-health services, allowing you to be seen by your provider in the comfort of your own home. If you wish to schedule a tele-health visit with your provider, please call the clinic at 620-653-2386.· If you come to a Clara Barton Clinic and are asked to wear a mask, please do not remove the mask until you have left the facility.The Staff at Clara Barton Hospital and Clinics have been working around the clock to ensure the safety of both our patients and our staff. We will continue to keep you informed of the latest updates and procedures being implemented at Clara Barton to better protect you, your family, patients, and Clara Barton Employees. Please know we are fully prepared to care for you in the event you or a loved one are diagnosed with the virus and are doing our very best to help prevent the spread of this virus throughout our communities. Together we will get through this!Please be reminded of the following:- Patients arriving at both Clara Barton Hospital or any Clara Barton Medical Clinic will be met at the door by a Clara Barton staff member who will immediately initiate a screening. Please be sure to stop and allow for these screening procedures, as it will assist us in determining if the patient has symptoms of the coronavirus. The staff member may ask you to put on a mask. If you are asked to wear a mask, please do so in order to protect both yourself and other patients. Do not remove your mask until you have left the facility.- The front door to Clara Barton Hospital will be unlocked from 6 AM – 6 PM. Upon arrival you will be screened by a CBH staff member. From 6 PM – 6 AM the hospital doors will remain locked. Patients are asked to ring the buzzer on the outside of the front door and screening questions will be asked via intercom before the patient can enter the building. Clinic doors will be unlocked at their usual time and staff will initiate a screening upon entering the lobby.- If you feel as if you have symptoms of the coronavirus and plan to be seen at the clinic or in the ER, please call us before your arrival at 620-653-2386. Calling ahead allows us to take the proper precautions necessary in order to avoid the potential spread of the virus to other patients or staff members. When you call, your call will be triaged and you will be asked a few questions. They will then direct you to the appropriate area of the hospital or clinic.- There is criteria that has been put into place in order to be tested for the coronavirus, but we do not set this criteria. Criteria is set by the KDHE and CDC, therefore you may or may not be tested for the virus depending upon your symptoms, travel history, and other conditions. If you develop symptoms, please contact your primary care provider for further direction.- We encourage you to continue practicing good hand hygiene and social distancing to help prevent the spread of this virus. This includes social distancing in our lobby areas. Please ensure there are at least 2 chairs between you other patients sitting in the lobby.- As your local community healthcare facility, we are following the recommendations set forth by the American College of Surgeons, the CDC, and KDHE recommending we halt all elective surgeries at this time. We are doing this in the best interest of our patients in order to avoid potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus. Emergency surgeries will still be performed as needed. Although there are currently no cases in the county, we are following these precautionary measures to protect the health and wellbeing of our patients.- There will be no outreach clinic visits at any of our clinic locations through the end of April. Please contact your outreach provider if you have questions regarding your appointment.For more information on the coronavirus, please visit our website at https://www.clarabartonhospital.com/coronavirus-information, the KDHE website at http://www.kdheks.gov/coronavirus/, or call the Barton County Coronavirus Hotline at 620-796-5609.

Clara Barton Hospital: COVID-19 update (March 30)

The Department of Commerce is encouraging Barton County, and all Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) recipients&nbsp;to use their CDBG Revolving Loan Fund monies&nbsp;to assist small businesses with their need for&nbsp;working capital&nbsp;and to continue to employ their workers.&nbsp;

The Kansas Department of Commerce CDBG Program is allowing&nbsp;IMMEDIATE use of Barton County's&nbsp;CDBG revolving fund monies to support the working capital needs of businesses in your community.&nbsp; Here are the terms:

We hope this action taken by the Kansas Department of Commerce, Great Plains Development, and Barton County&nbsp;helps to sustain area businesses.&nbsp; Please call Great Plains Development at (620) 227-6406 for further details, eligibility requirements, and to complete one application for multiple loan sources.&nbsp;

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585600689857.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>The Department of Commerce is encouraging Barton County, and all Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) recipients&nbsp;to use their CDBG Revolving Loan Fund monies&nbsp;to assist small businesses with their need for&nbsp;working capital&nbsp;and to continue to employ their workers.&nbsp;The Kansas Department of Commerce CDBG Program is allowing&nbsp;IMMEDIATE use of Barton County's&nbsp;CDBG revolving fund monies to support the working capital needs of businesses in your community.&nbsp; Here are the terms:<ol>
 <li>Loans must be used for working capital.&nbsp; Working capital is defined as salaries and wages, purchase of inventory, utilities, rent, insurance payments, etc.;</li><li>The term of the loan shall be 3-years or less;</li><li>The interest rate will likely be .5%;</li><li>Money loaned, when re-paid, will be returned to your accounts;</li><li>Complete the Job Certification Form to prove 51% of the persons impacted are LMI at retention;</li><li>Collateral is not required</li><li>Funds are limited and will be available on a first-come-first-served basis;</li><li>Apply by contacting Great Plains Development.&nbsp;&nbsp;</li><li>Job retentions will need a letter from the company/business attesting the company is either shut down or will be shut down due to COVID 19;</li><li>Public Notice of Fund Availability has been reduced to 24 hours.&nbsp; We will allow posting with area Barton County media outlets.</li>
 </ol>We hope this action taken by the Kansas Department of Commerce, Great Plains Development, and Barton County&nbsp;helps to sustain area businesses.&nbsp; Please call Great Plains Development at (620) 227-6406 for further details, eligibility requirements, and to complete one application for multiple loan sources.&nbsp;

Barton County encourages CDBG loans recipients to assist small businesses

From University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend Campus

To keep patients, staff and you safe from infection, with limited exceptions, we are not currently allowing visitors. Be sure to check here for the latest updates

To protect our patients, visitors and staff from infection, we have implemented the following guidelines:

For most patients,&nbsp;zero&nbsp;visitors are allowed. Exceptions include:

Any visitor who has a fever or other cold or flu-like symptoms will not be allowed in our facilities.

We encourage family and friends to return home to await news of their loved one. You may wait in your vehicle if you wish. Any visitor who has a fever or other cold or flu-like symptoms will not be allowed in our facilities. Unless you have a scheduled pediatrics appointment, visitors under age 14 will not be allowed in the clinic until further notice.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585600142224.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>From University of Kansas Health System - Great Bend CampusTo keep patients, staff and you safe from infection, with limited exceptions, we are not currently allowing visitors. Be sure to check here for the latest updatesTo protect our patients, visitors and staff from infection, we have implemented the following guidelines:Hospital VisitorsFor most patients,&nbsp;zero&nbsp;visitors are allowed. Exceptions include:<ol>
 <li>1 parent or guardian for patients younger than 18</li><li>1 support person for labor and delivery patients</li><li>1 support person for patients with disabilities or impairments needing assistance</li><li>1 support person or driver for patients undergoing outpatient treatment or procedures</li><li>Support persons for patients nearing end of life</li>
 </ol>Any visitor who has a fever or other cold or flu-like symptoms will not be allowed in our facilities.Clinic VisitorsFor most patients,&nbsp;zero&nbsp;visitors are allowed. Exceptions include:<ol>
 <li>1 parent or guardian for patients younger than 18</li><li>1 support person for patients with disabilities or impairments</li>
 </ol>We encourage family and friends to return home to await news of their loved one. You may wait in your vehicle if you wish. Any visitor who has a fever or other cold or flu-like symptoms will not be allowed in our facilities. Unless you have a scheduled pediatrics appointment, visitors under age 14 will not be allowed in the clinic until further notice.<div><iframe src="https://www.facebook.com/plugins/post.php?href=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.facebook.com%2FGreatBendRegionalHospital%2Fposts%2F3970535312988759&width=500" width="500" height="539" style="border:none;overflow:hidden" scrolling="no" frameborder="0" allowTransparency="true" allow="encrypted-media"></iframe></div>

Great Bend hospital bans visitors; few exceptions

ELLIS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Monday in Ellis County.

The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Cobalt driven by&nbsp;Willhite, Anthony J. Willhite, 20, Mount Vernon, MO., was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of U.S. 183.

The vehicle left the roadway. The driver overcorrected into the north ditch and rolled.

EMS transported Willhite and a passenger Delany June Rose Moore, 19, Springfield, MO., to Hays Medical Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

ELLIS COUNTY — Two people were injured in an accident just before 8a.m. Monday in Ellis County.The Kansas Highway Patrol reported a 2006 Chevy Cobalt driven by&nbsp;Willhite, Anthony J. Willhite, 20, Mount Vernon, MO., was westbound on Interstate 70 one mile east of U.S. 183.The vehicle left the roadway. The driver overcorrected into the north ditch and rolled.EMS transported Willhite and a passenger Delany June Rose Moore, 19, Springfield, MO., to Hays Medical Center. They were not wearing seat belts, according to the KHP.

2 hospitalized after Ellis County rollover accident

Great Bend, Ks, March 30, 2020 –&nbsp;On March 20, 2020, the City of Great Bend, Kansas, adopted Resolution Number 032020-A restricting public access to City buildings.&nbsp; The Kansas Attorney General has issued guidance for keeping meeting open to the public during the “social distancing” emergency restrictions.&nbsp;

*The KOMA remains in full force and effect unless explicitly suspended by emergency order of the governor.&nbsp; The Governor has not currently suspended any requirements of KOMA.

*If the members of the public body themselves are not physically gathered in one place-for example, if the meeting itself is conducted by telephone or videoconferencing-then members of the public must be able to join in the electronic conferencing in order to listen to or observe he meeting.

*If the members of the public body are physically gathered for a meeting but cannot allow members of the public to be present because of emergency limitations, then the public body must take steps to allow the members of the public to listen to or observe the meeting by telephone, videoconferencing, television broadcast or similar method.

*When the public is participating in a public meeting by telephone or other medium of interactive communication, members of the body must take steps to help the public understand the proceedings despite not being physically present.&nbsp; For example, each speaker in the meeting should identify herself by name before speaking or voting so remote listeners or observers can more readily know who is speaking, likewise, each motion should be clearly stated and each vote tally clearly announced.

*The procedure for any executive session must be clearly explained at the outset of a meeting.

*There must be no cost for the public to participate.

*There must be a method for distributing any agenda or other written materials that ordinarily could be picked up in person by members of the public attending.&nbsp; Those procedures must be explained to the public before the meeting begins.

Since public access restrictions have been placed on public buildings, the following procedures will be followed in conducting public meetings.

i.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Post notices and meeting agendas on its website&nbsp; www.greatbendks.net The press will also be notified of meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

ii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Utilize the website ZOOM at zoom.com with Meeting ID # 720-707-2528&nbsp; to broadcast the meeting to the public.&nbsp; Interested persons wishing to use this website may do so by following the procedure set out in the attachment to this document. (To listen and/or observe via the web the address is https://zoom.us/j/7207072528)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;

iii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broadcast the meeting live on Facebook at the following web address https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/ .&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; iv.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It should be noted that the ZOOM option is accessible through telephonic or internet facilities.&nbsp; Persons wishing to listen and/o observe on Zoom should place their phone on mute by either pressing the Mute button or *6.&nbsp; Interested persons are not required to have a Facebook page in order to observe the meeting through Facebook.&nbsp;

It is the hope of the City that this crisis passes quickly and that all remain safe and healthy.&nbsp; When deemed safe to do so, the City will return to allowing public attendance at meetings.&nbsp; This policy is intended to apply to situations dealing with the various restrictions placed on attendance at public gatherings during this time of crisis.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/1/1578412004290.jpeg" alt="" />
 <figcaption></figcaption>
 </figure>Great Bend, Ks, March 30, 2020 –&nbsp;On March 20, 2020, the City of Great Bend, Kansas, adopted Resolution Number 032020-A restricting public access to City buildings.&nbsp; The Kansas Attorney General has issued guidance for keeping meeting open to the public during the “social distancing” emergency restrictions.&nbsp;That guidance includes:*The KOMA remains in full force and effect unless explicitly suspended by emergency order of the governor.&nbsp; The Governor has not currently suspended any requirements of KOMA.*If the members of the public body themselves are not physically gathered in one place-for example, if the meeting itself is conducted by telephone or videoconferencing-then members of the public must be able to join in the electronic conferencing in order to listen to or observe he meeting.*If the members of the public body are physically gathered for a meeting but cannot allow members of the public to be present because of emergency limitations, then the public body must take steps to allow the members of the public to listen to or observe the meeting by telephone, videoconferencing, television broadcast or similar method.*When the public is participating in a public meeting by telephone or other medium of interactive communication, members of the body must take steps to help the public understand the proceedings despite not being physically present.&nbsp; For example, each speaker in the meeting should identify herself by name before speaking or voting so remote listeners or observers can more readily know who is speaking, likewise, each motion should be clearly stated and each vote tally clearly announced.*The procedure for any executive session must be clearly explained at the outset of a meeting.*There must be no cost for the public to participate.*There must be a method for distributing any agenda or other written materials that ordinarily could be picked up in person by members of the public attending.&nbsp; Those procedures must be explained to the public before the meeting begins.Since public access restrictions have been placed on public buildings, the following procedures will be followed in conducting public meetings.<ol>
 <li>During the time of crisis public access to public meetings of the Governing Body of the City of Great Bend, Kansas, is inadvisable and impossible.</li><li>The City of Great Bend, Kansas, will comply with the provisions of the Kansas Open Meetings Act.</li><li>The members of the Governing Body will, if at all possible, be physically present for the meetings, although some may have to attend by telephone or teleconferencing.&nbsp; Additionally, circumstances may require that the members of the Governing Body refrain from physically gathering for meeting in one place.&nbsp; In either of these events the City will:</li><li>Produce and widely disseminate to the general public through news media, social media, email and other means a notice explaining why and how the ordinary meeting procedures will change, how the public may receive notice of meetings, and how the public may continue to participate in the meetings.&nbsp; Specifically, the City will:</li>
 </ol>i.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Post notices and meeting agendas on its website&nbsp; www.greatbendks.net The press will also be notified of meetings.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;ii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Utilize the website ZOOM at zoom.com with Meeting ID # 720-707-2528&nbsp; to broadcast the meeting to the public.&nbsp; Interested persons wishing to use this website may do so by following the procedure set out in the attachment to this document. (To listen and/or observe via the web the address is https://zoom.us/j/7207072528)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;iii.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;Broadcast the meeting live on Facebook at the following web address https://www.facebook.com/gbcitycouncil/ .&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; iv.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;It should be noted that the ZOOM option is accessible through telephonic or internet facilities.&nbsp; Persons wishing to listen and/o observe on Zoom should place their phone on mute by either pressing the Mute button or *6.&nbsp; Interested persons are not required to have a Facebook page in order to observe the meeting through Facebook.&nbsp;<ol>
 <li>Recordings of meetings will be posted on the City’s Public Access Television Station, Cox Channel 20 and available for public viewing within 24 hours of the meeting.</li><li>Take any actions as may be necessary and reasonable under the circumstances of the emergency declaration to advance the state policy that “meetings for the conduct of governmental affairs and the transaction of governmental business open to the public”.</li>
 </ol>It is the hope of the City that this crisis passes quickly and that all remain safe and healthy.&nbsp; When deemed safe to do so, the City will return to allowing public attendance at meetings.&nbsp; This policy is intended to apply to situations dealing with the various restrictions placed on attendance at public gatherings during this time of crisis.

Great Bend open meetings policy during COVID-19 crisis

Action taken from Barton County Commission meeting (3/30)

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A force inside on both ends of the floor, Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike has been named the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Defensive Player of the Year, as the NABC announced its top Division I award winners Monday.

“I would like to thank God almighty,” Azubuike said. “My teammates and coaches have played a huge role in all the awards I receive. It is a humbling experience. The fans, everybody has played a huge role in me being where I am today. I want to thank the coaches for selecting me for this honor. There are a lot of great defensive players in basketball and to win this award is humbling.”

Azubuike, a senior from Delta, Nigeria, led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game.

A unanimous 2020 All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named 2020 Big 12 Player of the Year, Azubuike was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).

A Consensus All-America Second Team selection, Azubuike came on strong toward the end of the season recording 12 of his 15 double-doubles in the final 17 games. He also averaged 5.8 blocked shots in his final 17 contests of 2019-20.

Kansas finished the season 28-3 and won its 19th Big 12 and NCAA record 62nd conference regular-season title winning an all-time high 17 league games going 17-1. The Jayhawks finished 2019-20 ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls.

Historically, NABC Defensive Player of the Year started in 1986-87 and Azubuike becomes the second Jayhawk to win the honor joining 2013 recipient Jeff Withey, who was a co-winner along with Victor Oladipo of Indiana.

Dayton’s Anthony Grant was the 2019-20 NABC Coach of the Year and Dayton’s Obi Topping the NABC Player of the Year. NABC Freshman of the Year went to Vernon Carey Jr. of Duke, and NABC Pete Newell Big Man of the Year Luka Garza of Iowa.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A force inside on both ends of the floor, Kansas senior Udoka Azubuike has been named the National Association of Basketball Coaches (NABC) Defensive Player of the Year, as the NABC announced its top Division I award winners Monday.“I would like to thank God almighty,” Azubuike said. “My teammates and coaches have played a huge role in all the awards I receive. It is a humbling experience. The fans, everybody has played a huge role in me being where I am today. I want to thank the coaches for selecting me for this honor. There are a lot of great defensive players in basketball and to win this award is humbling.”Azubuike, a senior from Delta, Nigeria, led Division I in field goal percentage at 74.8%, which helped his career percentage of 74.4% break the all-time Division I field goal percentage record of UCF’s Tacko Fall (74.0%). Azubuike led the Big 12 in rebounding (10.5 rpg) and double-doubles (15) and was second in the conference for blocked shots at 2.6 per game.A unanimous 2020 All-Big 12 First Team selection who was named 2020 Big 12 Player of the Year, Azubuike was the only player in the conference to average a double-double (13.7 ppg, 10.5 rpg).A Consensus All-America Second Team selection, Azubuike came on strong toward the end of the season recording 12 of his 15 double-doubles in the final 17 games. He also averaged 5.8 blocked shots in his final 17 contests of 2019-20.Kansas finished the season 28-3 and won its 19th Big 12 and NCAA record 62nd conference regular-season title winning an all-time high 17 league games going 17-1. The Jayhawks finished 2019-20 ranked No. 1 in both the Associated Press and USA TODAY Coaches’ polls.Historically, NABC Defensive Player of the Year started in 1986-87 and Azubuike becomes the second Jayhawk to win the honor joining 2013 recipient Jeff Withey, who was a co-winner along with Victor Oladipo of Indiana.Dayton’s Anthony Grant was the 2019-20 NABC Coach of the Year and Dayton’s Obi Topping the NABC Player of the Year. NABC Freshman of the Year went to Vernon Carey Jr. of Duke, and NABC Pete Newell Big Man of the Year Luka Garza of Iowa.

Azubuike Named 2019-20 NABC Defensive Player of the Year

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State will renew one of its oldest rivalries in the coming years, as the Wildcats have inked a three-game men's basketball series with former conference foe Nebraska, starting Saturday, December 19, 2020 at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, the schools announced Tuesday (March 31).

The three-game agreement calls for a road game at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska on Saturday, December 18, 2021 and a home game at Bramlage Coliseum on Saturday December 17, 2022.

"This is a nice three-game series for us and a real win-win for both schools," said head coach Bruce Weber. "(Director of Operations) Drew (Speraw) was looking for a neutral site game at the same time as Nebraska and it just worked out for both parties. We started with the game in Kansas City then added the home-and-home series later. With the shared conference history, the closeness of both campuses and our relationship with Coach (Fred) Hoiberg and his staff, a series like this just makes too much sense."

The two schools, which played 219 games through five conferences (Missouri Valley, Big Six, Big Seven, Big Eight and Big 12), will reignite a rivalry that started more than 100 years ago with a 50-14 victory by Nebraska on February 19, 1906 and was last played at the Devaney Sports Center on February 23, 2011, a 61-57 Wildcat win.

K-State leads the all-time series, 126-93, including a 19-3 mark in games played in Kansas City. The 219 meetings represent the fourth-longest series in school history, following Kansas (293), Missouri (237) and Iowa State (231).

K-State will host Nebraska in the 11th Wildcat Classic at the Sprint Center in December, which will be the 23rd meeting between the schools in Kansas City and the first since a 62-58 win by K-State in the first round of the 2001 Big 12 Championship on March 8 at Kemper Arena (now Hy-Vee Arena). The Wildcats are 8-2 all-time in Wildcat Classic at the Sprint Center, including wins in 5 of the last 6 games.

This will be the first non-conference games between the schools since the 2001 Big 12 Championship. The teams played 7 times between the first meeting in 1906 and before Nebraska joined the Missouri Valley Conference in 1915. They also played 15 times in the Big Eight Holiday Tournament (1944-77) and 7 times in Big Eight/12 Championship (1979-2001), all in Kansas City.

The Wildcats have won 10 consecutive games against the Huskers in Kansas City, including a 7-0 mark in Big Eight/12 Championship play. The Sprint Center will be the third different Kansas City venue to host the matchup, following Municipal Auditorium (1944-73) and Kemper Arena (1974-2001).

Nebraska is led by a familiar face in former Iowa State player and head coach Fred Hoiberg, who is entering his second season in Lincoln. A two-time All-Big Eight selection for the Cyclones from 1991-95, he led Iowa State to 115 wins, four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and two Big 12 Championships (2014, 2015) from 2010-15 before leaving to become the Chicago Bulls head coach (2015-18).

The Huskers are coming off a transition year in 2019-20, in which, they posted a 7-25 overall record, including a 2-18 mark in Big Ten play with zero returning starters and 14 newcomers.

The Nebraska series is yet another exciting piece to the 2020-21 non-conference slate, which already includes home games with UNLV and in the SEC/Big 12 Challenge. K-State has also committed to play in the Cayman Islands Classic, November 23-25, in a field that includes La Salle, Miami (Fla.), Nevada, Northern Iowa, Ole Miss, Oregon State and Western Kentucky.

MANHATTAN, Kan. – Kansas State will renew one of its oldest rivalries in the coming years, as the Wildcats have inked a three-game men's basketball series with former conference foe Nebraska, starting Saturday, December 19, 2020 at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, the schools announced Tuesday (March 31).The three-game agreement calls for a road game at Pinnacle Bank Arena in Lincoln, Nebraska on Saturday, December 18, 2021 and a home game at Bramlage Coliseum on Saturday December 17, 2022."This is a nice three-game series for us and a real win-win for both schools," said head coach Bruce Weber. "(Director of Operations) Drew (Speraw) was looking for a neutral site game at the same time as Nebraska and it just worked out for both parties. We started with the game in Kansas City then added the home-and-home series later. With the shared conference history, the closeness of both campuses and our relationship with Coach (Fred) Hoiberg and his staff, a series like this just makes too much sense."The two schools, which played 219 games through five conferences (Missouri Valley, Big Six, Big Seven, Big Eight and Big 12), will reignite a rivalry that started more than 100 years ago with a 50-14 victory by Nebraska on February 19, 1906 and was last played at the Devaney Sports Center on February 23, 2011, a 61-57 Wildcat win.K-State leads the all-time series, 126-93, including a 19-3 mark in games played in Kansas City. The 219 meetings represent the fourth-longest series in school history, following Kansas (293), Missouri (237) and Iowa State (231).K-State will host Nebraska in the 11th Wildcat Classic at the Sprint Center in December, which will be the 23rd meeting between the schools in Kansas City and the first since a 62-58 win by K-State in the first round of the 2001 Big 12 Championship on March 8 at Kemper Arena (now Hy-Vee Arena). The Wildcats are 8-2 all-time in Wildcat Classic at the Sprint Center, including wins in 5 of the last 6 games.This will be the first non-conference games between the schools since the 2001 Big 12 Championship. The teams played 7 times between the first meeting in 1906 and before Nebraska joined the Missouri Valley Conference in 1915. They also played 15 times in the Big Eight Holiday Tournament (1944-77) and 7 times in Big Eight/12 Championship (1979-2001), all in Kansas City.The Wildcats have won 10 consecutive games against the Huskers in Kansas City, including a 7-0 mark in Big Eight/12 Championship play. The Sprint Center will be the third different Kansas City venue to host the matchup, following Municipal Auditorium (1944-73) and Kemper Arena (1974-2001).Nebraska is led by a familiar face in former Iowa State player and head coach Fred Hoiberg, who is entering his second season in Lincoln. A two-time All-Big Eight selection for the Cyclones from 1991-95, he led Iowa State to 115 wins, four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances and two Big 12 Championships (2014, 2015) from 2010-15 before leaving to become the Chicago Bulls head coach (2015-18).The Huskers are coming off a transition year in 2019-20, in which, they posted a 7-25 overall record, including a 2-18 mark in Big Ten play with zero returning starters and 14 newcomers.The Nebraska series is yet another exciting piece to the 2020-21 non-conference slate, which already includes home games with UNLV and in the SEC/Big 12 Challenge. K-State has also committed to play in the Cayman Islands Classic, November 23-25, in a field that includes La Salle, Miami (Fla.), Nevada, Northern Iowa, Ole Miss, Oregon State and Western Kentucky.

K-State, Nebraska Ink 3-Game Series, Starting in Kansas City in December

While baseball may not be played live right now, or any other sport for that matter, you can still cure that baseball itch all through the month of April! Join 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM and the Royals Radio Network as we air Royals Playback where we will air memorable games from the last decade.

While baseball may not be played live right now, or any other sport for that matter, you can still cure that baseball itch all through the month of April! Join 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM and the Royals Radio Network as we air Royals Playback where we will air memorable games from the last decade.<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585575332103.png" alt="Royals Playback Schedule" />
 <figcaption>Royals Playback Schedule</figcaption>
 </figure>

Royals baseball returns to air Thursday on 1590 KVGB and 95.5 FM

ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Lorenzo Charles’ dunk shot with one second remaining fulfilled North Carolina State’s impossible dream Monday night, giving the Wolfpack a 54-52 victory over top-ranked Houston for the NCAA basketball championship.

Charles, a 6-foot-7 sophomore, grabbed a 30-foot shot by Dereck Whittenburg with four seconds remaining that fell short, and stuffed it home.

The Wolfpack, champions of the Atlantic Coast Conference, became the first team to win the national championship in a season in which it lost 10 games. The old mark was nine, by Indiana in 1981.

North Carolina State had taken time out with 44 seconds left and went into a stall in an effort to get the last shot.

The Wolfpack won their 10th game in a row to finish the season 26-10, with six of those season-ending victories by four points or less. Houston, known for its shot-blocking and explosive dunking ability, had its 26-game winning streak snapped. The Cougars finished with a 31-3 record, suffering their first loss since Dec. 16 against Virginia.

N.C. State is the second straight ACC team to win the title, following North Carolina last season.

It was against Virginia, an ACC foe, in the NCAA’s West Regional championship that Charles’ free throws pulled out the triumph with 23 seconds left to get North Carolina State into the Final Four.

Once again it was a pulsating comeback for the Wolfpack, something that has marked most of its games in postseason play. The 16th-ranked Wolfpack, coached by Jim Valvano, came from behind in the ACC to beat Wake Forest, defending national champion North Carolina in overtime and then Virginia.

They did the same in the NCAA playoffs. They rallied to beat Pepperdine in overtime, came from behind to defeat Nevada-Las Vegas, Utah and Virginia again, and held on the beat Georgia.

“He (Whittenburg) took a prayer shot. He had not played up to his potential, but he made the biggest shot of his life,” Valvano said.

Said Whittenburg: “That play was designed for Lorenzo Charles, and I told him to be ready for it.”

As Charles stuffed the ball through the basket and the final second ticked off, N.C. State players leaped into the air, while Houston played slumped to the floor in disbelief. Players from both sides cried openly.

Houston, which lived by the dunk, died from the lack of it Monday night. The Cougars had only one dunk, that coming in the first half by Olajuwon, the big Nigerian center who paced the Cougars with 20 points, 18 rebounds and seven blocked shots. He finished with 82 points, 59 rebounds and 28 blocked shots for the tournament, and was named the Most Valuable Player in the Final Four.

Two other members of the Houston slam-dunk fraternity, 6-7 Clyde Drexler and 6-9 Larry Micheaux, contributed little. Drexler, the Cougars’ leading scorer during the season, hit only one of five shots from the field and scored four points after picking up four personal fouls in the first half. Micheaux also finished with just four points, playing only 18 minutes after the Wolfpack’s 6-11 Thurl Bailey had scored most of his 15 first-half points over him.

Bailey failed to score in the second half but was the Wolfpack’s leading scorer.

Anders, a 6-5 sophomore, was the only Cougar other than Olajuwon in double figures, with 10 points.

Whittenburg hit only one of six shots in the first half, but would up 6-of-17 for 14 points, the only other N.C. State player in double figures.

Both teams shot poorly, with North Carolina State hitting 23-for-59 for 39 percent. Houston, meanwhile, hit 21-of-55 for 38.2 percent.

The Cougars, a notoriously poor foul shooting team with a 61.4 percent averaging entering the game, made only 10 of 19 from the free throw line. Young missed all four of his foul shots.

Houston outrebounded State 44-34, with McQueen, a 6-11 sophomore, leading the winners with 12.

North Carolina State jumped to a 6-0 lead. The Cougars came right back to take a 7-6 advantage, but two free throws by Alvin Battle and a long jumper by McQueen put the Wolfpack in front to stay in the first half as Bailey hit from the outside and N.C. State used mostly a three-guard offense.

On Sunday, Valvano had said he would slow the tempo of the game to keep the score in the 50s because of Houston’s awesome talent, which recorded 13 dunk in wiping out Louisville.

But the Wolfpack surprisingly played run-and-gun at the outset and, when Houston ran with it, the ’Pack slowed it down. With Bailey’s outside shooting doing the damage, the Wolfpack looked good at intermission.

It was the second national championship in 10 tries for the Raleigh, N.C. school. Coach Norm Sloan’s 1974 club, led by David Thompson, beat Marquette for the crown 76-64.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1584913789992.jpeg" alt="A panel of Associated Press sports writers voted in March 2020 on the top 10 men’s basketball games in the history of the NCAA Tournament. They are being republished because the sport has been shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic. The following game was voted No. 3 and the following story was sent April 5, 1983." />
 <figcaption>A panel of Associated Press sports writers voted in March 2020 on the top 10 men’s basketball games in the history of the NCAA Tournament. They are being republished because the sport has been shut down because of the coronavirus pandemic. The following game was voted No. 3 and the following story was sent April 5, 1983.</figcaption>
 </figure>By DICK JOYCE -AP Sports WriterALBUQUERQUE, N.M. (AP) — Lorenzo Charles’ dunk shot with one second remaining fulfilled North Carolina State’s impossible dream Monday night, giving the Wolfpack a 54-52 victory over top-ranked Houston for the NCAA basketball championship.Charles, a 6-foot-7 sophomore, grabbed a 30-foot shot by Dereck Whittenburg with four seconds remaining that fell short, and stuffed it home.The Wolfpack, champions of the Atlantic Coast Conference, became the first team to win the national championship in a season in which it lost 10 games. The old mark was nine, by Indiana in 1981.North Carolina State had taken time out with 44 seconds left and went into a stall in an effort to get the last shot.The Wolfpack won their 10th game in a row to finish the season 26-10, with six of those season-ending victories by four points or less. Houston, known for its shot-blocking and explosive dunking ability, had its 26-game winning streak snapped. The Cougars finished with a 31-3 record, suffering their first loss since Dec. 16 against Virginia.N.C. State is the second straight ACC team to win the title, following North Carolina last season.It was against Virginia, an ACC foe, in the NCAA’s West Regional championship that Charles’ free throws pulled out the triumph with 23 seconds left to get North Carolina State into the Final Four.Once again it was a pulsating comeback for the Wolfpack, something that has marked most of its games in postseason play. The 16th-ranked Wolfpack, coached by Jim Valvano, came from behind in the ACC to beat Wake Forest, defending national champion North Carolina in overtime and then Virginia.They did the same in the NCAA playoffs. They rallied to beat Pepperdine in overtime, came from behind to defeat Nevada-Las Vegas, Utah and Virginia again, and held on the beat Georgia.“He (Whittenburg) took a prayer shot. He had not played up to his potential, but he made the biggest shot of his life,” Valvano said.Said Whittenburg: “That play was designed for Lorenzo Charles, and I told him to be ready for it.”As Charles stuffed the ball through the basket and the final second ticked off, N.C. State players leaped into the air, while Houston played slumped to the floor in disbelief. Players from both sides cried openly.Houston, which lived by the dunk, died from the lack of it Monday night. The Cougars had only one dunk, that coming in the first half by Olajuwon, the big Nigerian center who paced the Cougars with 20 points, 18 rebounds and seven blocked shots. He finished with 82 points, 59 rebounds and 28 blocked shots for the tournament, and was named the Most Valuable Player in the Final Four.Two other members of the Houston slam-dunk fraternity, 6-7 Clyde Drexler and 6-9 Larry Micheaux, contributed little. Drexler, the Cougars’ leading scorer during the season, hit only one of five shots from the field and scored four points after picking up four personal fouls in the first half. Micheaux also finished with just four points, playing only 18 minutes after the Wolfpack’s 6-11 Thurl Bailey had scored most of his 15 first-half points over him.Bailey failed to score in the second half but was the Wolfpack’s leading scorer.Anders, a 6-5 sophomore, was the only Cougar other than Olajuwon in double figures, with 10 points.Whittenburg hit only one of six shots in the first half, but would up 6-of-17 for 14 points, the only other N.C. State player in double figures.Both teams shot poorly, with North Carolina State hitting 23-for-59 for 39 percent. Houston, meanwhile, hit 21-of-55 for 38.2 percent.The Cougars, a notoriously poor foul shooting team with a 61.4 percent averaging entering the game, made only 10 of 19 from the free throw line. Young missed all four of his foul shots.Houston outrebounded State 44-34, with McQueen, a 6-11 sophomore, leading the winners with 12.North Carolina State jumped to a 6-0 lead. The Cougars came right back to take a 7-6 advantage, but two free throws by Alvin Battle and a long jumper by McQueen put the Wolfpack in front to stay in the first half as Bailey hit from the outside and N.C. State used mostly a three-guard offense.On Sunday, Valvano had said he would slow the tempo of the game to keep the score in the 50s because of Houston’s awesome talent, which recorded 13 dunk in wiping out Louisville.But the Wolfpack surprisingly played run-and-gun at the outset and, when Houston ran with it, the ’Pack slowed it down. With Bailey’s outside shooting doing the damage, the Wolfpack looked good at intermission.It was the second national championship in 10 tries for the Raleigh, N.C. school. Coach Norm Sloan’s 1974 club, led by David Thompson, beat Marquette for the crown 76-64.

AP Was There: NC State stuns Houston 54-52 for '83 title

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson have agreed to terms on a one-year deal that helps the reigning Super Bowl champions keep their top four receivers under contract heading into next season.

Tyreek Hill has signed a long-term deal and Mecole Hardman is coming off a strong rookie season, while Sammy Watkins is in the fold for next season but may be asked to restructure his hefty contract or take a pay cut in the coming days.

The NFL Network was first to report Sunday that Robinson was returning to the Chiefs.

The 2016 fourth-round pick played mostly on special teams as a rookie but has seen his role steadily expand. He was the No. 2 option when Hill was hurt this past season, catching six passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Raiders, and finished the year with 32 catches for 449 yards and four scores.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson have agreed to terms on a one-year deal that helps the reigning Super Bowl champions keep their top four receivers under contract heading into next season.Tyreek Hill has signed a long-term deal and Mecole Hardman is coming off a strong rookie season, while Sammy Watkins is in the fold for next season but may be asked to restructure his hefty contract or take a pay cut in the coming days.The NFL Network was first to report Sunday that Robinson was returning to the Chiefs.The 2016 fourth-round pick played mostly on special teams as a rookie but has seen his role steadily expand. He was the No. 2 option when Hill was hurt this past season, catching six passes for 172 yards and two touchdowns in a win over the Raiders, and finished the year with 32 catches for 449 yards and four scores.

Chiefs bring back wide receiver Robinson on 1-year deal

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson have agreed to terms on a one-year deal that helps the reigning Super Bowl champions keep their top four receivers under contract heading into next season.&nbsp;Tyreek Hill has signed a long-term deal and Mecole Hardman is coming off a strong rookie season, while Sammy Watkins is in the fold for next season but may be asked to restructure his hefty contract or take a pay cut in the coming days. Robinson finished this past season with 32 catches for 449 yards and four scores.

ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — The Detroit Lions have agreed to terms with wide receiver Geronimo Allison. The 26-year-old Allison comes to Detroit from division rival Green Bay, where he caught 34 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns last season. Allison played the past four seasons with the Packers and joins a team that includes receivers Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones and Danny Amendola each of whom surpassed 60 catches and 600 yards receiving in 2019.

CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Timmy Hill won yesterday’s virtual race at Texas Motor Speedway, the second in an iRacing series thrown together after NASCAR's 36-race season was suspended four events into the year. Hill is considered among the top competitors in iRacing, a subscription-based gaming platform. His virtual victory was his 674th in the game. One highlight came when Daniel Suarez was parked by iRacing officials for intentionally trying but failing to crash Ty Dillon.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Georgetown sophomore guard Mac McClung has announced that he is declaring for the NBA draft after averaging 15.7 points and 2.4 assists for the Hoyas this past season. However, he is maintaining his college eligibility in case he decides to stay at Georgetown. McClung missed time because of a right foot injury this year and appeared in only 21 of Georgetown's 32 games. He averaged 13.1 points as a freshman.

SEATTLE (AP) — The University of Washington has announced that former Huskies football coach Jim Lambright has died at age 77. Lambright spent nearly four decades associated with the Washington program as a player, assistant coach and head coach. He was 44-25-1 as the Huskies head coach and never had a losing record but was fired following the 1998 season. Washington’s best season under Lambright came in 1995 when it shared the Pac-10 title but missed out on a trip to the Rose Bowl.

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (AP) — The Chiefs and wide receiver Demarcus Robinson have agreed to terms on a one-year deal that helps the reigning Super Bowl champions keep their top four receivers under contract heading into next season.&nbsp;Tyreek Hill has signed a long-term deal and Mecole Hardman is coming off a strong rookie season, while Sammy Watkins is in the fold for next season but may be asked to restructure his hefty contract or take a pay cut in the coming days. Robinson finished this past season with 32 catches for 449 yards and four scores.ALLEN PARK, Mich. (AP) — The Detroit Lions have agreed to terms with wide receiver Geronimo Allison. The 26-year-old Allison comes to Detroit from division rival Green Bay, where he caught 34 passes for 287 yards and two touchdowns last season. Allison played the past four seasons with the Packers and joins a team that includes receivers Kenny Golladay, Marvin Jones and Danny Amendola each of whom surpassed 60 catches and 600 yards receiving in 2019.CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Timmy Hill won yesterday’s virtual race at Texas Motor Speedway, the second in an iRacing series thrown together after NASCAR's 36-race season was suspended four events into the year. Hill is considered among the top competitors in iRacing, a subscription-based gaming platform. His virtual victory was his 674th in the game. One highlight came when Daniel Suarez was parked by iRacing officials for intentionally trying but failing to crash Ty Dillon.WASHINGTON (AP) — Georgetown sophomore guard Mac McClung has announced that he is declaring for the NBA draft after averaging 15.7 points and 2.4 assists for the Hoyas this past season. However, he is maintaining his college eligibility in case he decides to stay at Georgetown. McClung missed time because of a right foot injury this year and appeared in only 21 of Georgetown's 32 games. He averaged 13.1 points as a freshman.SEATTLE (AP) — The University of Washington has announced that former Huskies football coach Jim Lambright has died at age 77. Lambright spent nearly four decades associated with the Washington program as a player, assistant coach and head coach. He was 44-25-1 as the Huskies head coach and never had a losing record but was fired following the 1998 season. Washington’s best season under Lambright came in 1995 when it shared the Pac-10 title but missed out on a trip to the Rose Bowl.

Monday Sports Headlines

ST. LOUIS (AP) — With millions of people suddenly out of work and rent due at the first of the month, some tenants are vowing to go on a rent strike until the coronavirus pandemic subsides.

New York, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco and St. Louis are among many cities that have temporarily banned evictions, but advocates for the strike are demanding that rent payments be waived, not delayed, for those in need during the crisis. The rent strike idea has taken root in parts of North America and as far away as London.

White sheets are being hung in apartment windows to show solidarity with the movement that is gaining steam on Twitter, Instagram and other social media sites. Fliers urging people to participate are being posted in several cities, including bus stops in St. Louis, where 27-year-old Kyle Kofron still has his job at an ice cream factory, but his three roommates have suddenly found themselves unemployed. Their property manager so far hasn’t agreed to a payment plan, Kofron said.

“For me personally, with everyone losing their jobs and unable to pay, it’s really the only thing we can do,” Kofron said of the strike. “It’s just like we the people have to do something. We just can’t stand idly by while the system takes us for a ride.”

Stay-at-home orders and strict limits on gathering sizes have forced shops, restaurants and bars to shut down indefinitely. Many service industry workers thrust into unemployment are living paycheck-to-paycheck in the best of times. Now, many say they don’t have the money to pay rent.

Some politicians have expressed support, if not directly for a strike, then for a temporary rent moratorium, including Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.

In New York, the state hit hardest so far by the pandemic, Democratic state Sen. Mike Gianaris of Queens introduced a bill that would forgive rent and mortgage payments for 90 days for people and small businesses struggling because of the coronavirus. It has 21 co-sponsors.

“Tenants can’t pay rent if they can’t earn a living. Let’s #CancelRent for 90 days to keep people in their homes during the #coronavirus crisis," Gianaris said on Twitter.

Strike advocates aren't waiting for legislative approval. Activist organizations in many places are leading the push for a strike. A group called Rent Strike 2020 is organizing on the national level.

<figure>
 <img src="https://media.eaglewebservices.com/public/2020/3/1585593902453.png" alt="Missouri resident Kyle Kofron uses this on his social media page" />
 <figcaption>Missouri resident Kyle Kofron uses this on his social media page</figcaption>
 </figure>ST. LOUIS (AP) — With millions of people suddenly out of work and rent due at the first of the month, some tenants are vowing to go on a rent strike until the coronavirus pandemic subsides.New York, Boston, Los Angeles, San Francisco and St. Louis are among many cities that have temporarily banned evictions, but advocates for the strike are demanding that rent payments be waived, not delayed, for those in need during the crisis. The rent strike idea has taken root in parts of North America and as far away as London.White sheets are being hung in apartment windows to show solidarity with the movement that is gaining steam on Twitter, Instagram and other social media sites. Fliers urging people to participate are being posted in several cities, including bus stops in St. Louis, where 27-year-old Kyle Kofron still has his job at an ice cream factory, but his three roommates have suddenly found themselves unemployed. Their property manager so far hasn’t agreed to a payment plan, Kofron said.“For me personally, with everyone losing their jobs and unable to pay, it’s really the only thing we can do,” Kofron said of the strike. “It’s just like we the people have to do something. We just can’t stand idly by while the system takes us for a ride.”Stay-at-home orders and strict limits on gathering sizes have forced shops, restaurants and bars to shut down indefinitely. Many service industry workers thrust into unemployment are living paycheck-to-paycheck in the best of times. Now, many say they don’t have the money to pay rent.Some politicians have expressed support, if not directly for a strike, then for a temporary rent moratorium, including Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.In New York, the state hit hardest so far by the pandemic, Democratic state Sen. Mike Gianaris of Queens introduced a bill that would forgive rent and mortgage payments for 90 days for people and small businesses struggling because of the coronavirus. It has 21 co-sponsors.“Tenants can’t pay rent if they can’t earn a living. Let’s #CancelRent for 90 days to keep people in their homes during the #coronavirus crisis," Gianaris said on Twitter.Strike advocates aren't waiting for legislative approval. Activist organizations in many places are leading the push for a strike. A group called Rent Strike 2020 is organizing on the national level.“Our demands to every Governor, in every state, are extremely simple: freeze rent, mortgage, and utility bill collection for 2 months, or face a rent strike,” Rent Strike 2020's website states.Advocates in St. Louis are encouraging those who can afford rent to join the movement in solidarity with those who can’t. Without a large number of participants, landlords will simply evict strikers, said Chris Winston, of For the People STL.Others say a rent strike could further worsen the economy if landlords and property managers themselves are forced to default on loans. Some strike advocates have urged banks to suspend requiring payments from landlords and property management companies so that those groups can better absorb their own financial losses from a rent strike or moratorium.Matthew Chase, an eviction attorney in St. Louis County, said property management companies and landlords have employees to pay, utility bills and other costs. A widespread rent strike could force them to lay off their own workers, cut back on property maintenance or even close apartment complexes.Chase cited one client who relies on income from renting a couple of homes.“She’s the big, bad landlord to these rent strike folks,” Chase said.Nick Kasoff, who lives in the St. Louis suburb of Ferguson, calls himself a “small-time landlord.” He had words of warning for anyone refusing to pay their rent.“Courts are closed, but they won't be closed forever,” Kasoff wrote on Facebook. “If you choose not to pay rent when you are able, your landlord will be down there filing an eviction the day they open back up. You will lose your home, ruin your credit, and make it difficult to get any sort of decent housing in the future. A ‘rent strike’ isn't going to liquidate capitalism and make you a homeowner, it's going to demolish your credit and make you homeless.”

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