Governor Laura Kelly Announces Thermo Fisher Expansion to Help Increase COVID-19 Testing Statewide, Create Jobs

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly today visited Thermo Fisher Scientific in Lenexa to celebrate the opening of the company’s new Viral Transport Media manufacturing site, which will play a critical role in Kansas’ comprehensive COVID-19 testing strategy and create more than 300 full-time jobs.

 

“I want to thank the Thermo Fisher team for its work in protecting our health and safety and helping Kansas tackle the many challenges brought on by COVID-19,” Governor Kelly said. “By significantly increasing the manufacturing capacity of this facility, Thermo Fisher will not only have a positive impact on public health, but will help my administration as we work to rebuild our state’s fiscal foundation and make our economy stronger than it has ever been – not just returning to pre-pandemic conditions.”

 

Thermo Fisher has been producing COVID-19 testing products since the onset of the pandemic.

 

Built in just six weeks, this $40 million facility has created more than 300 new full-time jobs and added 120,000 square feet of manufacturing capacity in Lenexa. The company estimates that more than 150 million testing products will be produced by the end of the year.

 

Secretary of Commerce David Toland joined Governor Kelly at today’s ribbon cutting and groundbreaking ceremony.

 

“The need for research and development of pharmaceuticals to test for and combat COVID-19 is essential to our economic recovery, and Thermo Fisher is stepping up to help take on this huge task,” Secretary Toland said. “Thermo Fisher is doing extremely important work for COVID-19 research, and I’m proud that such important, critically needed products will be produced in Kansas.”

 

Today’s ribbon cutting and groundbreaking ceremony not only established the new Lenexa facility, but it also signified the beginning of Phase 2 of the project, which will focus on new research and development in the fight against COVID-19.

 

For more information on Thermo Fisher, including the viral transport media manufacturing site in Lenexa, visit their website here.

 

The below photos are available for media use:

 

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Purple Ribbon Marketplace Offers Virtual State Fair Opportunity

 

MANHATTAN, Kansas — The Kansas Department of Agriculture’s state trademark program, From the Land of Kansas, and a variety of its member companies will be exhibiting in a virtual state fair-like experience, September 11-20, to showcase Kansas products.

 

The virtual experience, called Purple Ribbon Marketplace, will feature special deals like half-off shipping, as well as fun and interactive opportunities to learn about Kansas agriculture businesses and the stories behind them. KDA created a Facebook group, www.facebook.com/groups/thepurpleribbonmarketplace, and launched it on August 28 to begin sharing the stories about its members before product sales begin on September 11.

 

Since the cancellation of the Kansas State Fair due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the program wanted to find an alternative way to showcase these Kansas businesses and offer consumers the opportunity to purchase local products.

 

“This will be an easy way for these businesses to remain connected with consumers so they can enjoy high-quality food and unique products and share with their family and friends,” said Janelle Dobbins, From the Land of Kansas program director. “This virtual format will allow for more interaction, and, of course, the special state fair offers we all love.”

 

A variety of Kansas products will be offered through the Purple Ribbon Marketplace including popcorn, cheese, sunflower oil, coffee, spice and dip mixes, sauerkraut, and honey. A local distillery will also be selling their hand sanitizer.

 

From the Land of Kansas is the state’s trademark program that promotes and celebrates agricultural experiences and products grown, raised or produced in Kansas. It supports the KDA mission to serve Kansas farmers, ranchers, agribusinesses and consumers by providing agribusiness marketing opportunities to participating local businesses and allowing consumers to identify and choose to support Kansas products.

 

For more information about the program and its members, visit fromthelandofkansas.com or engage with the program through social media by following From the Land of Kansas on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest. Shop for Kansas products year-round at shop.fromthelandofkansas.com.

 

Kansas Prisoner Review Board Topeka Public Comment Session

Location Change

 

TOPEKA, Kansas – The Kansas Prisoner Review Board (PRB) announced today a change of location for the Public Comment Session scheduled for Friday, August 28, 2020.

 

Due to the announced closure of the Topeka Municipal Court building, the session has been relocated to the Florentine Room of the Jayhawk Tower located at 700 S.W. Jackson Street, Topeka, Kansas, 66603. Participants will be limited to 25 people at a time to meet social distancing requirements.

 

Participants who need assistance with directions or have questions about this change may call (785) 746-7529.

 

 

 

TOPEKA – The Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) has amended its travel quarantine list guidance to include Aruba. Additionally, those countries which previously held a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice with restrictions have been removed from the list effective today – this is in line with newly issued CDC guidance.

 

“While we are removing certain countries from our travel restrictions in line with CDC guidance, we will continue to issue travel quarantines of locations or activities that pose the largest threats to Kansans,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “For countries and/or states, the criteria will continue to be those that have new case rates three times the Kansas rate.”  

 

A comprehensive list of those individuals needing to quarantine for 14 days includes visitors and Kansans who have:

 

• Travel to Aruba on or after August 27.
• Attended/traveled to mass gathering events out-of-state of 500 people or greater on or after August 11.

• Traveled July 14 – August 27 to countries with a CDC Level 3 Travel Health Notice and restrictions on entry into the United States, including China, Iran, European Schengen area, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, and Brazil.

• Been on a cruise ship or river cruise on or after March 15.

 

Critical infrastructure sector employees who have travelled to these destinations or gatherings should contact their local health department regarding instructions for application of these quarantine orders while working. Critical infrastructure employees, such as public health, law enforcement, food supply, etc., need to have the staffing resources to continue serving Kansans so the local health department may allow a modified quarantine. Please note the only exemption for these quarantine mandates for critical infrastructure sector employees is work – they are not to go any other locations outside of work.

 

“If you are choosing to travel, in-state, out-of-state or internationally, please know that even though travel may be opening, there are inherent risks,” Dr. Lee Norman, KDHE Secretary, said. “Be sure to wear masks, practice social distancing and use proper hand hygiene. And, if you’re not feeling well, stay home!”

 

For more information on COVID-19, please visit the KDHE website at www.kdhe.ks.gov/coronavirus.

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Fourth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair is Now Open

 

TOPEKA – Governor Laura Kelly announced the fourth KANSASWORKS Statewide Virtual Job Fair has begun, and will continue through Thursday, August 27.

 

The virtual fair will allow job seekers to easily live chat with employers from across the state through computers and mobile devices. KANSASWORKS has organized four virtual job fairs so far in 2020, with three additional virtual fairs planned later this year.

 

Click here to register for the Virtual Job Fair.

 

“My administration remains committed to providing safe employment opportunities across the state,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “The KANSASWORKS team has developed a creative, intuitive way for businesses and job seekers to find each other. I encourage all job seekers in our state to visit this and future Virtual Job Fairs to find opportunities in their area.”

 

The Department of Commerce moved its statewide job fairs online this year to eliminate public health risks associated with mass gatherings, and as a way to continue to provide job opportunities and maintain a ready workforce for Kansas businesses.

 

“Getting our state back to business is our top priority at Commerce,” Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “Our economy is recovering, and there are job opportunities in numerous sectors across Kansas. KANSASWORKS virtual job fairs have provided results to Kansas residents and businesses alike. If you are seeking employment in Kansas, the Virtual Job Fair is the place for you.”

 

The third virtual fair in July was a great success, with participation from 189 employers and 1,182 job seekers from across the state.

 

As concerns for the health and safety of Kansans remain high due to COVID-19, the Department of Commerce will maintain the Virtual Job Fair system for the remainder of 2020. Future statewide events are scheduled for:  

 

• September 22-24
• October 27-29
• December 8-9

 

As these dates get closer, updates will be provided with employer and job-seeker registration links for each individual virtual fair.

PRATT – In a 5-2 vote, Kansas Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Commissioners passed a regulation change that will allow hunters to use artificial light and thermal-imaging equipment when hunting coyotes at night beginning in 2021. Once the regulation is implemented, interested hunters must purchase a Night Vision Equipment Permit, $2.50, to use artificial light, scopes and equipment that amplify visible light, and thermal-imaging scopes and thermal-imaging equipment, when hunting coyotes at night, with the following restrictions:

• Use of this equipment will be permitted from Jan. 1 to March 31 only;
• Use of this equipment will require a hunter to possess a Night Vision Equipment Permit, $2.50;
• Use of this equipment will be permitted for hunting coyotes only;
• Use of a vehicle when hunting with this equipment is prohibited;
• Use of this equipment will not be permitted on department lands and waters, including WIHA and iWIHA properties.

“The amount of public input we’ve received on this proposed regulation change was truly impressive,” said Kansas Department of Wildlife, Parks and Tourism Secretary Brad Loveless. “It just goes to show that, as a state agency, we make better decisions when we take good data, consult with our subject matter experts, and invite the public to provide their experience and insights. I’m pleased with this process and believe this will expand opportunities for hunters, and will benefit our ranching community, as well.”

 

The new Night Vision Equipment Permit will be valid beginning Jan. 1, 2021. Until then, hunters must observe all current laws and regulations pertaining to the use of special equipment and hunting coyotes (see ksoutdoors.com/Services/Law-Enforcement/Regulations for details).

 

To watch a recording of KDWPT’s Aug. 20 Commission meeting, visit ksoutdoors.com/KDWPT-Info/Commission.

 

For more on hunting in Kansas, visit ksoutdoors.com/Hunting.

 

Kansas is committed to keeping our roads safe this Labor Day holiday travel period

 

 

TOPEKA – The Labor Day holiday is a time of celebration and marks the achievements of the labor movement and the unofficial end of summer. It’s traditionally celebrated with barbecues, outdoor recreation and road trips. But all too often, this travel brings tragedy for those involved in traffic crashes.

 

Law enforcement agencies across the state will be combining resources beginning Friday, Aug. 21, through Monday, Sept. 7, to detect and remove impaired drivers.

 

Impaired driving is not just alcohol; it is anything that impairs your ability to safely operate a motor vehicle. Impaired driving not only puts your life and the lives of others in danger, but the monetary costs of driving under the influence can have a devastating financial impact.

 

Those driving impaired can expect the average DUI costs to exceed $10,000 with legal fees, court fines and higher insurance rates, along with jail time, DUI classes, ignition interlock fees and license suspensions.

 

“Holidays are particularly challenging times on the road.  As Labor Day approaches, I would like to remind everyone to look out for others as you travel,” said Transportation Secretary Julie Lorenz. “Safety is everyone’s responsibility.  We all have a role to play in making our roads as safe as possible.”

 

“Impaired driving crashes can lead to increased emergency room visits,” said Chris Bortz, KDOT Traffic Safety Program Manager. “We need to ensure everyone does their part to let our health care workers and first responders focus on those directly impacted by COVID. If you are impaired, text a sober friend, call a cab, use a ride share service, but don’t get behind the wheel.”

 

The safety campaign is funded by a federal grant administered by KDOT. The enforcement campaign runs concurrently with a media schedule reminding motorists to never drink and drive. KDOT wants all Kansans to make it home safely this holiday weekend. For more information about traveling safely this Labor Day holiday, please visit KTSRO.org.

 

 

Kansas Benefits Card can be used to purchase groceries online at Amazon and Walmart

 

The Kansas Department for Children and Families announced today that EBT Online has been fully implemented, and Kansas food assistance recipients now have the option of purchasing groceries online using a Kansas Benefits Card, also known as an EBT card, at Amazon and Walmart.

 

“As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, this new online purchasing program offers a contactless, safe, and secure way for Kansans to get their groceries,” said DCF Secretary Laura Howard.

 

Governor Laura Kelly announced in June 2020 that the United States Department of Agriculture approved the DCF proposal to offer EBT Online to Kansans.

 

When using the EBT card to purchase groceries online, the card will function like a debit card, and the same guidelines will apply. SNAP recipients should note that while they can now use their EBT card to pay for groceries online, they cannot use their card to cover the cost of grocery delivery.

 

Kansas food assistance, or SNAP, provides monthly food benefits that help individuals and families buy healthy, nutritious food. Even if temporary, individuals and families who have experienced a change in their circumstances and need additional help may apply for food assistance benefits.

 

Kansas currently has more than 208,000 individuals who receive food assistance benefits totaling $291 million annually.

 

Kansans can visit https://cssp.kees.ks.gov/apspssp/sspNonMed.portal to apply for food assistance or call 1-888- 369-4777. You can also find your local office at http://www.dcf.ks.gov.

 

Learn more about EBT Online at http://www.dcf.ks.gov/pages/ebt-online.aspx.

 

 

The week of Aug. 17 the Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) started a survey for a proposed shoulder widening project on K-7 in Crawford County. The survey is on the existing highway alignment, beginning at the north city limits of Girard and continuing north for 11 miles to the Crawford-Bourbon county line.

 

KDOT expects the survey to be completed by December. Activities include the use of survey instruments on the ground to determine locations of existing features within the corridor. A member of the survey crew will contact property owners or tenants for permission to enter private property.

 

Craig Chaney of RIC will manage this survey for KDOT. Persons with questions may contact KDOT Public Affairs Manager Priscilla Petersen, (620) 902-6433.

 

 

Welcome to the first edition of The Kelly Administration’s ‘Kansan to Kansan’ Newsletter, a weekly update from the Office of Governor Laura Kelly. If you are not currently subscribed, you can sign up here.

 

WEEK OF AUGUST 10, 2020

Governor Laura Kelly and Kansas Teachers Discuss School Reopenings, Protecting Staff and Students

 

 

Watch the Virtual Discussion here

 

• Kelly told the teachers that she is committed to funding schools and supporting educators both right now and after the pandemic ends. “So that you can do the jobs that you’re trained and hired to do and we can provide the support systems in there to make it possible for you,” she added.

 

Press

 

• Kansas educators share back-to-school concerns with Gov. Laura Kelly

KSHB

 

• Kansas teachers discuss masks, sports in back-to-school meeting with Gov. Laura Kelly

KWCH

 

• Kelly: Mask requirement for students not yet resolved

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

State Finance Council Approves $60 Million To Expand High-Speed Internet to Underserved Kansas Communities

 

Read the press release here

 

• “COVID-19 has made it clear how important access to high-speed internet is for Kansans in rural and urban regions alike. Whether it’s telemedicine, teleworking, or online education capabilities, broadband is a singular tool that can change outcomes for communities. My administration will continue to support investments in our state’s infrastructure like high-speed internet to put us on stronger economic footing as we continue our road to recovery,” Governor Laura Kelly said.

 

Press

 

• Kansas’ State Finance Council Oks $60M in grants for broadband boost

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

• Lawmakers approve internet improvements, task force looks ahead to next recommendations

KSNT

 

• State Finance Council Approves $60 Million Broadband expansion

KRSL

 

Governor Laura Kelly Announces Partnership with Urban Outfitters, Inc., to Create up to 2,000 Jobs and Approximately $350 Million Capital Investment

 

 

Read the press release here

 

• “I’m excited to announce our new partnership with URBN and to welcome them to Kansas,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “This is a transformational project for our state, bringing a new, high-profile corporate partner and as many as 2,000 good-paying jobs. This was a true collaboration to generate an economic development success story that will deliver benefits in Wyandotte County and beyond in our state.”

 

Press

 

• Urban Outfitters to bring 2,000 jobs to KCK project developed by Ross Perot Jr.

The Kansas City Star

 

• Urban Outfitters to bring 2K jobs to Kansas

The Topeka Capital-Journal

 

• Urban Outfitters plans $350M investment near Kansas Speedway

Kansas Reflector

 

• Urban Outfitters to open distribution center in Kansas City

WIBW

 

• 2,000 jobs expected with Urban Outfitters facility in Kansas City, Kansas

KCTV

 

Governor Laura Kelly Applauds Kansas State University COVID-19 Response Contribution During Biosecurity Research Institute Tour

 

 

Read the press release here

 

• “The Kansas State University Biosecurity Research Institute has a long history of excellence and innovation researching disease spread like what we are currently facing with COVID-19,” Governor Kelly said. “My conversations with BRI staff served as a reminder of how many of our best and brightest have answered the call to help end the pandemic. While my administration is doing everything in our power to get Kansans back to work and kids back to school safely – the contributions being made by our health community will be instrumental to protecting the people of this state and our economy.”

 

Press

 

• Kansas State biosecurity researchers deliver tutorial to Gov. Laura Kelly on COVID-19

Kansas Reflector

 

• Governor Kelly visits K-State Biosecurity Research Institute

WIBW

 

• A look at K-State’s extensive coronavirus research

KSN

 

Governor Laura Kelly Announces 225 New Jobs in Salina

 

 

Read the press release here

 

• “Schwan’s has been a staple here in Salina for many years, and they’ve been making nationally-recognized pizza brands for decades,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “From Day One, my administration has prioritized investing in and rebuilding Kansas’ foundation. This venture is a testament to our commitment to creating good jobs for Kansans, especially at this critical time as we work to recover from the economic challenges brought on by COVID-19.”

 

Press

 

• Schwan’s creating hundreds of jobs with expansion of facilities

KAKE

 

• 225 new full-time jobs coming with Tony’s Pizza production facility expansion in Salina

KWCH

 

• Kansas leaders, Schwan’s Company announce 225 new jobs, new ‘world-class’ facility in Salina

WIBW

 

ICYMI:

 

• To the Kansas farmers that feed out nation: thank you

Governor Laura Kelly, The Garden City Telegram

 

• Before Kansas Senate snubbed Carl Folsom, he helped veteran beat faulty felony

Kansas Reflector

 

• Editorial: We must fight for Medicaid expansion

The Hutchinson News

 

• ‘Reckless and dangerous’: Why did Kansas House speaker keep COVID-19 diagnosis a secret?

The Kansas City Star

 

• Kelly: Mail-in voting for general election safest method

The Mercury

 

 

 

 

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