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The ins and outs of COVID-19
Spring forward Daylight saving time begins at 2 a.m. Sunday, March 8.
Remember to set your clocks forward one hour before going to bed Saturday
Local officials urge common sense, good hygiene
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By VICKIE MOSS The Iola Register
Wash your hands and stay home if you are sick. It’s simple advice that will be repeated again and again as the local community, the nation and the world adjust to a deadly new coronavirus, COVID-19. Local health care and emergency preparedness officials have been meeting and communicating on a regular basis to ensure the community is prepared should the virus infect someone in Allen County. “The first thing we’re doing is to educate the public so there’s no need to panic,” Patty McGuffin, chief nursing officer for Allen County Regional Hospital, said. “We’re in connection with several organizations, and sharing information and resources.” The team has years of experience preparing for a variety of emergency scenarios, as an emergency preparedness committee formed to improve
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IHS wrestling coach makes his mark
communication between law enforcement, emergency responders and health care professionals in the wake of the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks. Just in the last week or so, the team underwent training for the proper use of personal protective equipment like gloves, gowns, facemasks and more, McGuffin said. “We have a huge advantage in our community, being part of this emergency preparedness committee. It gives us access to a lot of resources, with the expertise and experience of all the different agencies that are involved,” she said. That experience has helped Allen County weather other
Coronavirus cases in U.S.
The U.S. death toll from the coronavirus climbed to 14, with all but one victim in Washington state, while the number of infections swelled to over 200. 1-2 cases
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10-25 cases
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25+ cases
Council to take up utility bills debate
Figure includes 49 people returning to the U.S. (46 from the Diamond Princess cruise ship, and three from China).
See COVID-19 | Page A5 As of 7 a.m. ET March 5
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Turbulent past leads to tranquility PAGE A8
Source: AP, Johns Hopkins CSSE Graphic: Stall, TNS
Cyclists ready to roll By RICHARD LUKEN The Iola Register
From left, Artur Hakobyan, Zuzan Khuboyan, Hasmik Mikayelyan, Vahe Khachikyan, Emilya Voskanyan, Allie Utley, Lisse Regehr, Samvel Grigoryan, Lusine Karapetyan and Marcia Davis enjoy a moment of levity after an intense discussion of politics and policy. REGISTER/TREVOR HOAG
Exploring links between Armenia, Allen County By TREVOR HOAG The Iola Register
Allen County was host to a unique group of international young people Thursday. They were visiting from the Republic of Armenia, a landlocked country in the mountainous Caucasus region once part of the Soviet Union. Although the Armenian group hailed from the other side of the globe, two things were quickly apparent. First, the challenges facing their small country had much in common with those facing
Vol. 122, No. 92 Iola, KS 75 Cents
rural Kansas. And second, the same goes for the solutions. Armenia has seen a great deal of upheaval in recent years, from social and political uprisings within the county to a steady “brain drain,” where qualified young people depart their home country in search of better opportunities in western Europe. Their visit was sponsored by the Open World Program, whereby emerging leaders from the post-Soviet bloc swap ideas with counterparts in the U.S. Their visit limited to a scant 10 days, the Ar-
2019 NATIONAL AWARD
menians have embarked on a whirlwind tour, spending most of their time in Wichita, where their sponsors, the Rotary Club of East Wichita, have ferried them to a myriad of organizations dedicated to community service, from the Kansas Leadership Center to local universities, youth centers and public radio stations. One thing quickly stood out to Fred Heismeyer, a former Iolan now living in Wichita and who served as the group’s coordinator: the See VISITORS | Page A7
The weather’s getting warmer, the nights are getting longer and bicycle enthusiasts are ready to saddle up for some 2020 riding. Before they do, Ben Alexander offered up roadside repair tricks to help cyclists ensure their rides stay in proper working order. Alexander, owner of Southwind Cycle and Outdoors, greeted a crowd of about 20 Thursday evening for an hourlong tutorial on basic bike repairs, covering everything from repairing a flat tire to replacing a broken spoke. He encouraged riders to closely inspect their bicycles every time they take them on the road (or trail): ensuring tires are properly inflated, chains are in proper working order, the handlebars and pedals are snug. The most dedicated riders should have a few basic supplies on hand for each trip, Alexander said, from a spare tube (it can be rolled up and taped to the frame), a multi-tool equipped with various size wrenches and screwdrivers, a chain repair tool and a flat repair patch. Those going on longer
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rides should consider other add-ons, such as spare spokes, a small amount of cash, and even a cell phone, Alexander said. He offered up a number of other hacks. Don’t have a bike stand? Find a tree with a low-lying branch as a substitute. Lost a spoke? In some cases, a “daisy chain” of cable zip ties connected together can help get you home. THE LESSONS come as the cycling season ramps up in the coming days. Southwind will offer its first shop ride of the season See CYCLISTS | Page A7
The Employees of Neosho Memorial Regional Medical Center Awarded
Top 100 Best Places to Work in Healthcare By Modern Healthcare magazine for the 12th consecutive year multiple national award for award-earning care