Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in Michigan on Monday, April 13, 2020:
-- Sick of staying home? Can't wait to get back to work, back to normal, or at least on to the next phase? Gov. Gretchen Whitmer says she gets it. Taking a more personal tone today, the governor said she's frustrated, too; and if it makes people feel better, they can direct their anger her way. READ MORE HERE.
-- A recall petition aims to oust Gov. Whitmer over her handling of the coronavirus crisis. DETAILS HERE. This comes after last Thursday she signed an executive order extending her "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order through April 30, 2020. DETAILS HERE.
-- Michigan's unemployment benefits website was down pretty much all day Monday — on the first day that unemployment applications opened up for self-employed, gig workers, low-wage and others newly eligible were able to apply. DETAILS HERE.
-- The state of Michigan continues to report a rising death toll amid the coronavirus crisis. On Monday, the Michigan Department of Health and Services announced 997 new cases of the virus, and 115 additional deaths from COVID-19. The new numbers show the state now has 25,635 confirmed cases of the novel coronavirus, with a total of 1,602 related deaths statewide. READ MORE HERE.
-- With millions of Americans out of work because of the pandemic, Gov. Whitmer is leading a coalition of a dozen governors calling on the Trump Administration to open up a special enrollment period on the federal health care exchange. GET THE DETAILS.
-- Ford Motor Co. — already making face shields and respirators — is adding more devices to what's being called the "Arsenal of Health." LEARN MORE.
-- While it's still OK to canoe, officials say motorboating is not permitted in Michigan under the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" Executive Order. GET THE DETAILS.
-- Tenants inside Lakeside Mall in Sterling Heights are getting a break on the bill during the COVID-19 pandemic. The mall has been closed since March 24. READ MORE HERE.
-- While he says 99% of the city has been "terrific" in complying with social distancing guidelines, Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan has a few complaints — including about young people out in groups spreading the virus. He is asking parents to keep the kids at home. Also in Friday's update from the mayor: hazard pay for some essential city workers, and police handing out masks. READ MORE HERE.
-- You may be driving less lately due to the COVID-19 crisis. And even if you're not, you may be getting a credit on your auto insurance. LEARN MORE HERE.
-- Here's the answer to the question many Michiganders have been asking: When will I get my stimulus check from Uncle Sam? A timeline was announced today. DETAILS HERE
-- A huge thank you was erected at the west end of William Beaumont Hospital in Troy. "Good for them!" WWJ's Charlie Langton said when he spotted the sign. SEE IT HERE
-- The 2020 Chevrolet Detroit Grand Prix, scheduled for Memorial Day weekend on Belle Isle, has been canceled. Race organizers say, as a result of the current public health restrictions and mandates, it is not possible to hold the event. MORE DETAILS.
-- Sinai Grace Hospital in Detroit has been at the epicenter of the coronavirus outbreak -- and the controversy over healthcare workers struggling to save patients while working in extremely harsh conditions without enough support, equipment and protective gear. Some staffers say they were sent home early last week for protesting the conditions, while others claim they walked off the job. READ MORE HERE.
-- Meijer will be liminting the number of customers allowed in a store at a time and will also begin conducting daily health screenings and temperature checks for employees as they arrive at work. READ MORE HERE.
-- Michigan State Police are discouraging joyriding in cars or on motorcycles with the "Stay Home" order in place. MSP First Lt. Mike Shaw says it is not permitted, under the order, to take a drive just for fun or to "clear your head." READ MORE 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!
