In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 2,210 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Of those cases, 177 were newly confirmed. In addition, 653 people have recovered from the virus. However, there were 11 new deaths reported last night, bringing the state’s total to 115. In terms of updates, Governor Beshear lauded the public’s response to the Team Kentucky Fund, including from the Order of Kentucky Colonels, who donated the largest amount seen so far towards the fund; $1 million. In addition, the Governor applauded the public’s efforts in donating personal protective equipment, but stressed that more is still needed. An update was also given on unemployment from Josh Benton of the Kentucky Education and Workforce Development Cabinet who reassured those who have not gotten the service they need that the government assumes responsibility, and they are working on it. Benton said the top reason that claims are tied up in the system is that the claim is still within the 13 to 15 day window since filing.
WQXE News
Your source for local community news, weekdays at 6, 6:30, 7, 7:30, 8, 9 and Noon.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the American Red Cross is dealing with a shortage of blood. To help combat this problem, the City of Elizabethtown will be hosting a blood drive to help boost supplies. The drive, which will occur on April 27th, will take place at the Historic State Theater in Downtown Elizabethtown. However, donations will be by appointment only to ensure the safety of donors and staff alike. More information can be found at redcrossblood.org.
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College has established a donor-based program to help remove financial obstacles that may prevent students from continuing or successfully completing their college education during the COVID-19 pandemic. This fund is called the Student Emergency Fund, and relies on donations in order to disperse assistance. Those interested in donating to the fund should visit elizabethtown.kctcs.edu/studentemergencyfund. The application link will be shared with students when it becomes available.
The Elizabethtown Police Department arrested two men Saturday morning after an armed robbery. According to reports, the incident took place on Friday night. Allegedly, Bradley Felkins, the driver, and Evan Miller, the passenger, picked up an individual whom had requested a ride from the two. In the area of French Street and Metts Court, Felkins turned in his seat and pointed a firearm at the victim, telling him to give up his money and phone and get out of the car. The victim complied, and Felkins and Miller fled the scene. Luckily, the victim was uninjured. The two were apprehended and charged with robbery. They are lodged in the Hardin County Detention Center.
As the Commonwealth continues to see increases in positive cases, so does the Lincoln Trail District Health Department. In their daily press release yesterday afternoon, the department confirmed a total of 57 cases so far in the region, with one new case being reported in Hardin, Larue, and Marion counties. In total, 19 individuals have been released from their home isolations, with 30 cases still partaking in self-quarantine at home.