Updated Editor’s Note: We have been publishing community statements from local organizations regarding the coronavirus as a community service. There have been so many, the original page is quite lengthy. So, I am beginning a PAGE 2 for the latest statements I receive. Come back to this page to check and see if new ones have been added. Newest items received will be added at the top of this article. (Newest to oldest as you scroll down.)
The original Page 1 can still be viewed at this link. http://www.munciejournal.com/2020/03/community-organization-statements-on-coronavirus/
March 30,2020, 7:09 am—
Bridges Community Services
After much deliberation and conversation, we have decided that it is the safest choice for us to shut down temporarily. We have attempted to adjust our operations to continue providing services, but it would seem that we are no longer able to do so safely.
This is a temporary situation and, like with everything now, a very fluid one. We ask that you bear with us while we regroup, reorganize, and attempt to reconfigure how we operate and remain as safe as possible for clients and staff. We will provide any and all updates here! Thank you for your understanding.
March 29, 2020, 11:25 am—
13th Case of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reported Sunday of an additional individual within Delaware County having tested positive through lab testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, bringing the total to 13 confirmed cases.
The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
The most recently confirmed case is a male over the age of 20. No additional information about the patients will be released at this time due to privacy laws. “As expected, our confirmed cases are rising quickly in Indiana; with Indianapolis having been recently identified as an “emerging hot spot” for COVID-19 spread. The information we’re seeing on the confirmed cases show that this is definitely not a virus that is targeting only the elderly as many have been led to believe” stated DCHD Administrator, Jammie Bane.
March 28, 2020, 4:01pm—
3 New Cases of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reported Saturday of 3 additional individuals within Delaware County having tested positive through lab testing for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, bringing the total to 12 confirmed cases.
The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
These patients include a female over the age of 30 and 2 males over the age of 50. No additional information about the patients will be released at this time due to privacy laws.
Latest Video Briefing from DCEMA
March 28, 2020, 7:14 am—
March 27, 2020, 2:21pm—
First Merchants Bank
During these uncertain times, First Merchants is providing financial assistance to those who may need it. Please visit the COVID section on our website for up-to-date information: https://www.firstmerchants.com/covid-19.
For Consumers:
- COVID-19 impacted clients may request to defer payments on installment and auto loans, mortgage loans and home equity loans for up to 90 days without impacting their credit report or incurring late fees during the deferral period.
- The bank is also suspending vehicle repossessions and will not initiate foreclosure actions for residential properties for the next 60 days.
For assistance with any of the above, please call (877) 556-8721.
- Beginning March 25, 2020, we now have the ability to assist our impacted clients by offering a short term, unsecured installment loan. Clients may call and any Banking Center to speak with a banker.
For Commercial Clients:
- COVID impacted clients may request modifications to conventional, SBA 504 and 7A commercial loans. Structures include principal deferrals, interest deferrals and other loan structures. Please direct commercial clients to contact your relationship banker or Customer Service for assistance.
March 27, 2020, 2pm—
2 Additional Cases of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reports early Friday that 2 additional individuals within Delaware County have tested positive through lab testing for SAR-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection.
The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed. These patients include 2 females, both over the age of 60, who are hospitalized and under medical care. No additional information about the patients will be released at this time due to HIPAA privacy laws.
March 27, 2020, 9:20 am—
Trustees Take Steps To Protect Ball State Employees Impacted by COVID-19
During today’s meeting of the Ball State University Board of Trustees, President Geoffrey S. Mearns briefed the Board on the campus response to the COVID-19 public health crisis, presenting the Extraordinary Temporary Paid Leave Plan to protect any employee unable to work for a COVID-19 related reason.
“I consulted with the leadership team and the Chair of the Board of Trustees to develop a plan to provide reassurance to our valuable University employees,” said President Mearns.
The Trustees unanimously approved the plan. Under this plan, an employee unable to work because of a COVID-19 related reason, will receive regular, full pay through June 30, or through the end of the employee’s regular employment period, whichever comes first.
In order to receive this additional paid leave, an employee will not have to use any pre-existing paid leave.
To prepare for the possibility that this public health crisis extends beyond June 30, the Board of Trustees also approved the University’s plan to create a donated paid leave bank from which an eligible employee would be able to draw, after June 30, for COVID-19 related absences.
President Mearns said the vice presidents and academic deans have already joined him in pledging donations of leave to the bank.
“Our overarching goal is simple,” said President Mearns. “During this unprecedented public health crisis, we want to provide University employees with reassurance that this pandemic will not cause individuals to suffer any additional financial stress.”
He also said additional information regarding the University’s efforts during the public health crisis may be found at bsu.edu/coronavirus.
March 27, 2020, 4:44 am—
MITS Schedule Modification
Muncie Indiana Transit System (MITS) is announcing a modification to service in response to COVID-19. This modification will take effect Monday March 30, 2020. Due to the restrictions on travel and businesses that have closed/shortened their hours, MITS will be running an enhanced Saturday schedule until further notice.
This means that Monday thru Friday all routes will begin at their normal Monday thru Friday start times (some adjustments will be made to ensure the service is consistent with Saturday run times). Routes will start earlier, but will run 30 minute or 1 hour service and end according to the normal Saturday schedule. The only exception to this is that 14/16 will run 45 minute service Monday thru Friday with the last trips ending at 5:40; 5:55 and 6:10. 14/16 service (1 hour) on Saturday will remain unchanged. MITSPlus will operate from 6:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. Monday thru Friday and 8:15 a.m. to 6:15 p.m. on Saturday. MITS will be updating the MITS Bus app and mitsbus.org to reflect these changes.
MITS employees are deep cleaning every vehicle at night and all drivers have been provided with supplies to disinfect surfaces between each trip. We will continue to serve those in the community that are dependent on our service, but we urge people to only travel when necessary until restrictions have been lifted, at which time we will resume our regular schedule. Additional details can be obtained by calling 765-289-MITS (6487) or checking the MITS Bus app or website beginning on 3/30/2020.
Thank you.
Amanda Price, Muncie Indiana Transit System
March 26, 2020, 10:30 am—
Out-Of County COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reports early Thursday that an individual from outside of Delaware County has tested positive through lab testing originating in Delaware County for SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection.
Investigation of close contacts is coordinated by the county of residence. The DCHD has notified and will assist the county of residence of this latest case as needed. DCHD will continue working closely with local and state officials to ensure that contacts of all patients are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
The patient is a female, hospitalized and under care. No additional information about the patient will be released due to privacy laws.
March 24, 2020, 8:04 pm—
Muncie Tips Website Launches To Assist Local Service Workers
Launched in the wake of Governor Holcomb’s executive order last week to immediately close all bars and restaurants, MuncieTips.com provides a way for affected service/hospitality industry workers, a significant portion of the local population, to receive assistance from their loyal patrons during this difficult time, during which many of them will receive no income.
Employees, business owners, and artisans can create profiles on the site with links to their personal payment portals, such as PayPal or Venmo, and patrons can send them money directly, with 100% of contributions going directly to each individual. Members can also connect with another, form social groups, participate in discussion forums, and share information without the noise of social media. There’s also a blog component that is being used to promote industry-related information, business developments, and anything else that may be relevant.
Muncie is known for pulling together to support groups and individuals in need, and right now, the need is great. The Coronavirus pandemic escalated rapidly in ECI and with little warning, and many people who were already living close to the edge were caught unprepared. Now is a the best time for us all to be MuncieStrong and help out our neighbors. This is one way to do that. Please be generous.
Ty Morton
March 24, 2020, 12:50 pm—
Seven Total Cases of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reports early Tuesday 3 additional individuals within Delaware County having tested positive through lab testing for SAR-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, bringing the total to 7 confirmed cases.
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) continues working closely with local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
These patients include a female over the age of 60 and 2 males over the age of 50. No additional information about the patients will be released at this time due to privacy laws.
“We anticipate these confirmations will continue to rise rapidly over the next week. Social distancing and isolating at home continue to be the best strategies right now. We ask our citizens to heed these warnings and hold each other accountable in order to reduce the spread of COVID-19,” said DCHD Administrator Jammie Bane.
March 24, 2020, 7:00am—
Fourth Case of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reported late Monday that another individual within Delaware County has tested positive through lab testing for SAR-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection, bringing the total to 4 confirmed cases.
The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
The patient is a female over the age of 40. No additional information about the patient at this time will be released due to privacy laws.
The quick rise of cases in Delaware County confirms the importance of the emergency orders placed into effect by the Delaware County Commissioners. “We expect these numbers to continue to rise. Social distancing and isolating at home are the best strategies right now for everyone. Just because a business is open, does not mean it is safe for you to visit it,” said DCHD Administrator Jammie Bane.
March 23, 2020, 3:00pm—
Muncie Sanitary District Update
Muncie Sanitary District will continue to collect your trash and recyclables as usual, as trash pick-up has been deemed an essential business during Indiana’s “Stay At Home” orders. We ask that you do your part and place all trash inside of bags and inside your toters. Garbage that is not placed in a toter will not be picked up.
We are taking extra measures to ensure our drivers stay as safe and as healthy as possible during this time. This includes limiting the number of workers per truck, equipping our drivers with sanitizers and protective gear, and more. We thank you for your patience as our drivers complete their routes in reduced crews.
March 23, 2020, 12:35 pm—
Indiana Governor Eric Holcomb Issues a ‘Stay At Home Order’—Statement Issued by: Delaware County IN Emergency Management Agency
Indiana Gov. Eric Holcomb gave a new address at noon Monday 3/23/2020 updating plans to reduce the spread of COVID-19 ordering Hoosiers to stay at home.
The order is in effect from March 25th to April 7th.
What this means—
A “stay at home” order essentially allows people to continue performing tasks essential to the health and safety of family and pets. That means you can get food, care for a loved one, access necessary healthcare or go to work.
Beginning Tuesday, all state government offices will be closed to in-person public activity until at least April 7. This includes the Government Center complex in Indianapolis and other offices throughout the state, including Bureau of Motor Vehicle branches. State employees will work remotely whenever possible and continue to provide core functions online and by phone. All public safety functions will continue.
In conjunction with the closures, Gov. Holcomb ordered an automatic extension of all state-issued licenses and will advise law enforcement to refrain from issuing citations for a driver’s license or registration that expires during this emergency.
The Indiana State Department of Health announced Monday the state had recorded 259 positive cases of the virus and seven deaths related to it.
Instructions—
Hoosiers should stay in their homes from March 25th to April 7th.
Holcomb said Monday that the order still allows the state’s 6.8 million residents to seek essentials including groceries and medicine and makes exemptions for employees of crucial industries.
March 23, 2020, 9:25 am—
Ball State Cancels May Commencement
Ball State President Geoffrey S. Mearns announced this morning that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the University is cancelling its May 2020 Commencement Exercises.
President Mearns statement:
I am saddened to share with you that I have decided to cancel our May 2020 Commencement Exercises.
For two weeks, I have held out hope that the COVID-19 pandemic would abate, so that we could proceed as scheduled. But the increasingly aggressive guidelines from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, as well as the very strict orders emanating from state and local officials, have made it abundantly clear to me that there is no reasonable possibility that we will be able to conduct our Commencement ceremonies on May 2, 2020.
I can appreciate how disappointing this decision is to our graduating students and their families. For so many of you, our Commencement is a memorable and meaningful celebration of the successful culmination of hard work and many sacrifices.
I can personally relate to your experience, because my youngest two children – Geoffrey and Molly – are college seniors. Both of their universities have already canceled their Commencement ceremonies. My twins came home to Bracken House last week. I could hear the disappointment in their voices, and I could see the sadness on their faces.
Unfortunately, we must now focus on developing alternative plans to celebrate the success of our graduates. While nothing will fully replicate the beauty of our traditional ceremony on the Quad on a Saturday morning in May, I am interested to hear your suggestions. So we have prepared a survey: Ball State Commencement Survey.
Please share your thoughts with us at your earliest convenience. After we have had the opportunity to review your feedback and investigate the viable alternatives, I will provide you with more information.
For those of you who have questions about your cap and gown packages, please contact our campus bookstore at bookstore@bsu.edu or (765) 285-8080.
I continue to ask for your patience and understanding as we navigate the challenges presented to us as a result of this unprecedented public health crisis. Together, we will create a brighter future.
Sincerely,
Geoffrey S. Mearns, President, Ball State University
March 23, 2020, 2:21 am—
Third Case of COVID-19 Identified in Delaware County
The Delaware County Health Department (DCHD) reported late Sunday that an individual within Delaware County has tested positive through lab testing for SAR-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19 infection.
The Indiana State Department of Health reported today that statewide cases were at 201 total. The Delaware County case is believed to be in addition to the previously reported statewide total.
The DCHD continues working closely with the local and state officials to ensure that contacts of the patient are identified and that all infection control protocols are being followed.
The patient is a female over the age of 60. No additional information about the patient at this time will be released due to privacy laws.
This third case in Delaware County reiterates the importance of the emergency order placed into effect by the Delaware County Commissioners. “It’s crucial that our community continue to take preventative measures to lower the risk of infection,” said Jammie Bane, Delaware County Health Department Administrator.
Human coronaviruses most commonly spread from an infected person to others through:
• Rarely, fecal contamination.
The best way to protect yourself from any respiratory illness, including the flu, is to:
• Wash your hands often w/ soap & water for at least 20 seconds. If soap & water are not available, use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.
• Clean and disinfect frequently touched objects and surfaces.
The Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH) provides statewide updates as new information becomes available. Visit the ISDH website at in.gov/coronavirus for the most up-to-date information on COVID-19 in Indiana.
For updated local information: The Delaware County Emergency Management Agency, in collaboration with the Delaware County GIS Department, have created and are maintaining a central location for local updates. Please visit the Delaware County, Indiana Coronavirus Hub at www.dcema.com.
