Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in Michigan on Friday, May 8, 2020:
-- How soon will you feel comfortable dining out? A bar and restaurant group in Michigan is asking Gov. Gretchen Whitmer to let them reopen on May 29, laying out a plan to do it safely. READ MORE.
-- This situation is a ticking time bomb," says Michigan AG Dana Nessel — calling for a ban on firearms in the State Capitol after an armed protestsof the governor's virus orders made national headlines. If guns are allowed and something happens, she says: "the Capitol Commission will have blood on their hands." READ MORE.
-- Keep an eye on the curve. While new COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to be reported in Michigan, there's good news about the state's progress in the battle vs. the virus. The health department on Friday reported there are 680 new cases of COVID-19 in Michigan, and 50 new deaths. That brings the totals to 46,326 cases and 4,393 deaths throughout the pandemic. LATEST HERE.
-- Michigan is missing out when it comes to the amount of federal help to states feeling the weight of the outbreak, according to an analysis by the Associated Press. DETAILS
-- The U.S. unemployment rate hit 14.7% in April, the highest rate since the Great Depression, as 20.5 million jobs vanished in the worst monthly loss on record. The figures are stark evidence of the damage the coronavirus has done to a now-shattered economy. MORE HERE.
-- Gov. Whitmer announced Thursday she's extending the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order through May 28, while easing it to allow automotive and other manufacturing workers to return to the job next Monday. She also released more details about her plan to relaunch the state's economy in phases. READ MORE.
-- Should former Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick be released because of the pandemic? While officials say prisons are a breeding ground for the coronavirus, there are renewed calls to set him free. MORE HERE.
-- The Michigan Air National Guard is planning series of aerial flyovers in the state to demonstrate readiness, honor heroes, and lift morale amid the COVID-19 pandemic. READ MORE.
-- "Social distancing cannot be achieved by swimmers in a wave pool," officials say, announcing that both Oakland County waterparks, in Madison Heights and Waterford, will not open for the 2020 season. DETAILS HERE.
-- A look at some recent cancelations: Announced this week, the 2020 Ann Arbor Art Fair has been canceled. All public events and recreational activities in Madison Heights — including parades and summer camps — have been canceled through Labor Day.
-- Feel like you're drinking more during the pandemic? You're not alone. Blake's Hard Cider, the biggest cidery in the Midwest, is thriving despite the challenges of the coronavirus pandemic.The company saw a 60% spike of cider sales in the first quarter as they distribute to grocery stores across 18 states, in addition to the bars and restaurants that are now shuttered. DETAILS.
-- A 4th person has been charged in connection with a murder over a mask in Flint. Prosecutors say Brya Bishop tampered with evidence and tried to protect her stepdad and brother, who are wanted for the fatal shooting of a dollar store security guard. The two men remain at large. LATEST HERE.
-- After police say he admitted to wiping his nose on a the shirt of a store clerk enforcing a mask rule, a Genesee County man was released to his house — with conditions similar to the stay-home order. LATEST HERE.
-- In another mask dispute, a woman who ran for Roseville mayor in 2017 is facing charges — accused of attacking a Nino Salvaggio's employee and then spitting on police officers. READ MORE.
-- A Downriver man is facing a terrorism threat charge after he allegedly spit at personnel at two area Detroit-area hospitals to intentionally spread the coronavirus. READ MORE.
-- Warren Mayor Jim Fouts says police officers will be "randomly" stopping by businesses in Michigan's third largest city — checking to make sure they're complying with social distancing and other virus orders from the governor. DETAILS HERE.
-- Republican legislative leaders in Michigan have filed a lawsuit against Gov. Whitmer claiming her emergency declaration, extended until May 28, is unconstitutional. But does it have a chance in court? READ MORE.
-- Because of a nearly $350 million budget shortage, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan suspended anti-blight programs across the city, and delivered the grim news that entertainment -- including Detroit's cash cow casinos -- may not reopen for months. DETAILS
-- The New York Times reports Whitmer is among four possible vice presidential candidates who have a strong interest in running alongside Democratic candidate Joe Biden. But now comes this article, quoting an unnamed staffer, who says the governor is not only interested, but is "keenly interested"in the job. MORE HERE.
-- While the governor and Republican leaders are bickering over who has authority in a state of emergency, the two sides are also preparing to battle it out over severe cuts to state services due to the economic impact of the coronavirus on the state budget. DETAILS HERE
-- Need some help figuring out how to get your stimulus check? There's a website for that. DETAILS HERE.
-- Many businesses have temporarily closed their doors as the coronavirus pandemic rages on, but there are plenty of restaurants still open across metro Detroit for carryout and curbside pickup. Hungry? CHECK THE LIST.
-- The three main symptoms of coronavirus are fever, cough and shortness of breath. In order to mitigate risk of spreading COVID-19, everyone is encouraged to take action to reduce the spread, including: wash your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitizer; avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands; cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when coughing or sneezing; avoid handshakes; avoid contact with people who are sick; and stay home when you are sick. Officials are urging social distancing -- staying at least six feet away from other people -- to help flatten the curve.
This is a rapidly evolving situation. Stay tuned to WWJ Newsradio 950 where we will remain live, local and committed to bringing you the latest information during this outbreak. >>LISTEN LIVE!
