In his evening press conference last night, Governor Andy Beshear announced that there are now 5,822 cases of COVID-19 in the Commonwealth. Yesterday saw the biggest spike in cases thus far, with 625 new cases confirmed. More than 300 of these positive cases were a result of testing at Green River Correctional Complex. It is believed that 2,058 Kentuckians have recovered from the virus, however there were 14 new deaths reported on Tuesday, bringing the state’s total to 275. Many of the announced deaths on Tuesday were related to long-term care facilities, and Dr. Steven Stack addressed this in the press conference, noting that they are about to “embark on a very aggressive program to test the long-term care facilities over the weeks ahead at a very brisk pace.” The Governor announced that a new testing location in Pikeville would be opening today at Pikeville medical center, and information for signing up at that testing location is available at kycovid19.gov.
Cases continue to be confirmed within the Lincoln Trail District Health Department. In their latest release, the Department confirmed the presence of 119 cases of COVID-19, with new cases being announced in both Hardin and Meade counties. Elsewhere around the area, Breckinridge County officials announced there are 11 cases in the county, and the Grayson County Health Department confirmed three new cases in the county, bringing their total to 91.
Tourism has been halted in many places due to COVID-19, and Elizabethtown is no exception. Executive Director of Elizabethtown Tourism Janna Clark discussed the difference in tourism numbers compared to this time last year. Clark said that March and April were “devastating” for tourism, as hotel occupancies were around 15-20%. In addition, restaurants who have seen the need to convert to delivery or take-out services are also struggling, as the business model is not seen as sustainable at this time.
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is the latest college to make operational changes due to COVID-19. The college announced yesterday that test scores would not be required for enrollment for the upcoming school year. The college made the decision after determining that the school’s Assessment Center would be operational due to the Center not being able to adhere to social distancing guidelines. As a result, the college will be accepting test scores, even those past the 4-year requirement. More information can be found on ECTC’s website.
Elizabethtown Community and Technical College is offering free online classes to interested individuals looking for a pathway to a new career, needing a learning outlet, or testing their interest in online learning. The only requirements for the courses are internet access and being 18 years of age. These classes include Electrical Principles, Change Management, Managing Workplace Anxiety, Income Tax, Every “Body” is Beautiful, Stress Management, and a CDL Permit Test Prep. Registration for the courses is open, and can be done on the Workforce Solutions page on ECTC’s website. The classes will start May 13th and continue to June 15th.
