Here are the latest developments in the coronavirus outbreak in Michigan on Wednesday, April 15, 2020:
-- Large and raucous crowds showed up for "Operation Gridlock" in Lansing today — protesting the "Stay Home, Stay Safe" order in Michigan. Some remained in their cars in a convoy as organizers urged, while others gathered in groups on the lawn and steps of the Capitol. DETAILS HERE.
-- The pandemic counts continue their uphill climb in Michigan for another day, as officials report 153 more people have died, and 1,058 more have tested positive for the novel coronavirus. New numbers out Wednesday bring the statewide totals to 28,059 confirmed cases of COVID-19, and 1,921 related deaths since the pandemic began. DETAILS HERE.
-- With hospital morgues at or near capacity amid the pandemic, the Oakland County Medical Examiner's Office is looking into maybe using an ice arena to store bodies "as a last resort," if necessary. READ MORE
-- A Clinton Township woman is devastated, mourning the loss of her mother and two aunts — all of their deaths believed to be linked to COVID-19. READ MORE.
-- Something new for the City of Detroit: An online dashboard provided by the Detroit Health Department includes a map depicting hotspots for the virus in Detroit (screenshot above), plus other detailed information. VISIT THE SITE.
-- Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan says the city must solve a $348 million budget deficit for this year and next and it's due to expenditures and lost revenue fighting the coronavirus pandemic. DETAILS HERE,
-- On the latest episode of WWJ In Depth, host Rob St. Mary talks with a nurse who tested positive for COVID-19 as she returns to work. Also: A mayor uses tech to connect with her community, a therapist has tips for love in the time of coronavirus, and more. LISTEN HERE.
-- While images abound of doctors and nurses exhausted after endless shifts helping coronavirus patients and others in the midst of an emergency, that's not the entire story. For institutions like the Detroit Medical Center, the crisis also involves furlough of hospital workers. MORE 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.
-- Best Buy says they are furloughing 51,000 hourly store employeeas, including nearly all part timers. Some corporate employees are taking voluntary furloughs or pay cuts. The company has 16 stories in metro Detroit.
-- 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.
-- 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.
-- 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.
-- 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!
