Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in Michigan on Tuesday, April 14, 2020:
-- Another grim uptick as officials say 166 more people have died, and 1,366 more have tested positive in Michigan for the novel coronavirus. New numbers out from the Michigan Department of Health and Services Tuesday afternoon bring the statewide totals to 27,001 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and 1,768 related deaths since the pandemic began. DETAILS HERE.
-- Some drivers are apparently taking advantage of the lack of traffic on metro Detroit roads and freeways — ignoring speed limits and flying through construction zones. "The same rules apply," State Police are warning. READ MORE.
-- While Michiganders have been instructed not to dial 911 about people violating the "Stay Home" order — people in at least one Oakland County community haven't been shy about been calling the police. READ MORE.
-- Apparently people weren't keeping their social distance at the dunes. After photos show groups gathered on trails over the weekend, the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is closing more areas to the public. DETAILS HERE.
- Gov. Gretchen Whitmer wants to clear a few things up concerning her updated "Stay Home" executive order, in effect through April 30. First of all, there's no ban on buying American flags or baby seats. Here's a look at what's fact, and what's fiction. READ MORE.
-- A road rally called "Operation Gridlock" is planned tomorrow at noon in Lansing to protest the governor's stay home, stay safe order. Organizers are full of fiery rhetoric like this: "Governor Whitmer will put you out of business before allowing mere citizens to be responsible for their own behavior. That is madness." DETAILS HERE
-- Need some help figuring out how to get your stimulus check? There's a new website for that. DETAILS HERE.
-- An odd off-shoot of the "Stay Home" order in Michigan is what's being flushed down the toilet — including paper towels, latex gloves and all kinds of wipes. "You have to throw all of that in the trash." READ MORE.
-- The grocery store is going to look a little different on your next run ... Oakland County is taking additional measures to protect its employees and residents. MORE HERE.
-- As the debate rages over the intersection of public health and economic vitality, the governor says she's with you. Taking a more personal tone Monday, Whitmer said she's frustrated, too; and if it makes people feel better, they can direct their anger her way. READ MORE HERE
-- Meanwhile, President Donald Trump opened a national conversation when he claimed Monday that he has "total authority"and can decide when states reopen instead of local governors. DETAILS HERE. New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, however, disputes that, saying: "We don't have a king." READ MORE.
-- 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. It's back up and running. DETAILS 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.
-- 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!
