COVID-19 Today

In June 2020, Web Exclusive by Jane PorterLeave a Comment

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A comprehensive look at coronavirus news and resources in Raleigh for June 11.

WEB EXCLUSIVE While COVID-19 may have taken a backseat in the news cycle in recent weeks, the coronavirus is still very much here with us in Raleigh, Wake County and North Carolina, with nearly 39,500 people testing positive for the virus in the state as of today and 780 North Carolinians hospitalized with COVID-19 just yesterday.

All the precautions you took at the outset of the pandemic–practicing social distancing, washing your hands frequently, wearing a face mask–are still important to follow to prevent further infection and spread.

We’ve compiled a comprehensive overview of local news stories related to the coronavirus, as well as resources for the public and businesses, to help you navigate life in the midst of the pandemic and stay informed.

COVID-19 News

COVID-19 Cases, Hospitalizations Still Climbing

On Wednesday, DHHS secretary Dr. Mandy Cohen announced the state is increasing testing and tracing in at least eight counties in the state, including Wake, after Dr. Deborah Birx from the White House’s Coronavirus Task Force contacted state officials last week to express concerns about COVID-19 spread. The move comes as North Carolina has reported record highs for residents hospitalized with the virus–today for the fourth day in a row–a large increase in cases and shortening doubling rates.

DHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen | Photo courtesy of WRAL
DHHS Secretary Mandy Cohen | Photo courtesy of WRAL

Judge Denies Request From Gym Owners to Reopen

On Wednesday, a Wake County judge denied a request from a group of fitness facility owners in the state to reopen against Gov. Cooper’s order for them to remain closed in phase 2. The judge will allow the gym owners to present evidence in a preliminary injunction hearing at a date unset as of now.

But a Bill to Reopen Both Gyms and Bars Now Sits on Cooper’s Desk

After Gov. Cooper vetoed a bill last Friday that would reopen bars at limited capacity in the state, the legislature passed another, similar bill to allow both gyms and bars to open and operate at 50 percent capacity. The bill includes an amendment that would allow the governor to close these and other businesses again if there is a spike in cases with approval from the Council of State, comprised of six Republicans and four Democrats. The governor is expected to veto the bill.

Cooper is Taking Legal Action Against ACE Speedway

Following multiple stock car races at the Alamance County speedway that drew crowds of more than 2,000 people, the governor has ordered the race track to shut down until June 26. Under Cooper’s phase 2 executive order, outdoor gatherings are limited to 25 people.

The Republican National Convention in Charlotte Will Be Scaled Down

Donald Trump will not appear in Charlotte in August to make his acceptance speech for the presidential nomination but some convention events will still take place in the Queen City.

COVID-19 Resources for the Public

Drive-thru testing is available in Wendell for at-risk residents of Wake County, starting today through Friday, June 13.

Demonstrations for racial justice are still ongoing. Here is how you can protest safely.

Image from @BriannaABaker on Twitter.

Get help with childcare, transportation or paying rent through Wake County’s Network of Care.

The Downtown Raleigh Alliance has compiled a list of resources for residents on how to stay safe and how to support downtown businesses.

COVID-19 Resources for Businesses

Under Wake County’s Wake Forward program, the county has allocated $5 million to support small businesses. Small businesses can apply for up to $50,000 in loans.

Raleigh restaurants can apply to expand their spaces for outdoor dining.

Businesses can be trained and certified for safe reopening with Count on Me NC.

Apply for a loan from the Small Business Administration or the Golden Leaf Foundation.

Apply for tax credit assistance for paid leave.

Wake County Guidance for Businesses

Poole College of Management’s Business Guide

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