Community responds to COVID-19 warnings

With the threat of the spread of COVID-19, state, local and federal officials are calling for the cancellation or postponement of all gatherings of people numbering 50 or more.

Many things in Hot Springs County are cancelled as of this moment, while others are being rescheduled for a later date.

The Hot Springs County School District cancelled all classes at the three schools through April third. At that time they will determine if classes will resume or schools continue to be closed.

The cancellation of school also means the cancellation of all activities, including the start of track season.

In addition, all Hot Springs County Recreation programs have been cancelled through April third.

The decision was made over the weekend to cancel the FFA State Convention as well.

Chamber Director Meri Ann Rush reported on Monday that the Annual Chamber Banquet, scheduled for March 28, will be postponed until October 10.

The Gottsche Open House scheduled for March 24 has also been cancelled and Hot Springs County Memorial Hospital has suspended their LabWell services for the next three weeks.

Central Bank and Trust has made the decision to cancel their Annual Beer and Brats get together that was supposed to be held today (Thursday).

Friday night Fish Frys at the Catholic Church have also been cancelled and Rotary is suspending their Tuesday meetings until further notice.

The Jackalope Jump, which benefits Special Olympics, will be rescheduled for some time in June.

To keep the littlest ones safe, Hot Springs County Library is suspending Story Time until further notice.

Hot Springs County Senior Center has cancelled their yard sale scheduled for March 28 and April 4 along with their Senior Lunch-Brunch on Sundays until further notice.

The Bar J Wranglers concert has been rescheduled for April 25.

As for financial institutions in town, Big Horn Federal is not closing their lobby at this time. They have posted a notice on their window that since there are no confirmed cases of COVID 19 in the community they are still open for business. Their drive thru and drop box are available. If circumstances change, they may close their lobby.

Bank of Thermopolis is closing their lobby, however customers can make an appointment to come in person if necessary. Their drive thru is open.

The Central Bank and Trust lobby will remain open until further notice. Their drive thru is also open normal hours.

Pinnacle Bank has closed their lobby unless you have an appointment. Their drive thru is open normal hours.

All UW Extension in-person events have been suspended including 4-H club meetings, spring garden classes, etc.