Stories from Sunday, April 5, 2020

During this coronavirus outbreak, our rural communities face unique challenges and require a different response than urban and suburban centers around the country. Unfortunately, these needs are not often understood in Washington. Whether it’s providing immediate and targeted relief for our farmers and ranchers, increasing funding for rural hospitals and health clinics fighting on the frontlines, or expanding zero to low-interest loans for local businesses, I have made it clear to Congress and the White House that my number one priority is rural Missouri. ...

Local officials learned Sunday afternoon that Missouri’s COVID-19 deaths now have reached 34, one day before the governor’s stay-at-home order goes into effect. They also provided information concerning how the order will impact workplaces Monday. The total number of deaths is up from the earlier reported 24 deaths, said Johnna Craft, director of risk management and facilities compliance officer for Poplar Bluff Regional Medical Center...