For years, the Harbor House shelter had a routine for feeding and sheltering the hundreds of homeless people in Thousand Oaks, California, many of them elderly. Each evening, one of a dozen local churches, temples and mosques would host a dinner, and afterward, lay out beds for their guests to have a safe place to sleep.
COVID-19 has turned that routine upside down.
The host places of worship were worried about safety, especially since many of their volunteers also are elderly. All the houses of worship shuttered entirely, and with that, the dinner and bed routine was over. It wasn’t safe for either the volunteers or the guests, said Denise Cortes, Harbor House’s executive director.
“It’s a scary and devastating experience,” Cortes said. “We’re already dealing with people living on the fringes of life. And now they’re hanging by a thread.”
Like Harbor House, other homeless shelters around the country are being pushed to the brink by the pandemic. Even in the best of times, some 568,000 people live in shelters, on the streets or in a car. And now, shelters in at least 17 states plus Washington, D.C., have been forced to close, suspend services or otherwise limit their operations, according to the National Low Income Housing Coalition.
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DelMarVa's Premier Source for News, Opinion, Analysis, and Human Interest Contact Publisher Joe Albero at alberobutzo@wmconnect.com or 410-430-5349
Thursday, April 09, 2020
Pockets of Rural America Are Less Vulnerable to Economic Fallout — For Now
Every part of the country will feel the economic fallout from the coronavirus crisis. But the small and isolated rural areas that lagged during the economic boom may fare better, relatively speaking, in the aftermath of the pandemic.
Those places tend to be less tied to global and financial markets. With little population density, they are less conducive to virus transmission. So far, states such as Wyoming, the Dakotas, Nebraska and Iowa have reported far fewer COVID-19 cases than New York and other states with large cities.
“If you are a somewhat more isolated economy that does not attract as much visitation from either outside the U.S. or even domestically, you are less vulnerable,” said Adam Kamins, an economist and director at Moody’s Analytics, in a webinar last month.
The states least affected by the huge spike in unemployment claims are largely rural. They include West Virginia, Arkansas and Georgia. In part, that’s because those states have taken less dramatic steps to slow the spread of the virus. Among them, only West Virginia issued a stay-at-home order before the end of March.
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Those places tend to be less tied to global and financial markets. With little population density, they are less conducive to virus transmission. So far, states such as Wyoming, the Dakotas, Nebraska and Iowa have reported far fewer COVID-19 cases than New York and other states with large cities.
“If you are a somewhat more isolated economy that does not attract as much visitation from either outside the U.S. or even domestically, you are less vulnerable,” said Adam Kamins, an economist and director at Moody’s Analytics, in a webinar last month.
The states least affected by the huge spike in unemployment claims are largely rural. They include West Virginia, Arkansas and Georgia. In part, that’s because those states have taken less dramatic steps to slow the spread of the virus. Among them, only West Virginia issued a stay-at-home order before the end of March.
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The Feds Fell Short on PPE, So Everyday Americans Stepped Up
States are desperate for medical supplies, governors are pleading with the federal government to secure dwindling lifesaving equipment, and the number of novel coronavirus cases continues to rise nationally.
But emerging from this crisis has been a widespread effort by small businesses, university labs and everyday Americans to create personal protective equipment for vulnerable health care professionals who are keeping patients alive and fighting the contagion.
In Illinois, many manufacturers are retooling to make essential medical supplies for local hospitals: N95 masks, hand sanitizer and secure packaging for sending COVID-19 testing samples.
With the encouragement of Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the Illinois Biotechnology Association are leading an effort to streamline manufacturing and vet companies for health care providers. Hundreds of companies have reached out, said Mark Denzler, the manufacturing group’s president and CEO.
“It’s a wartime-like effort,” he said.
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But emerging from this crisis has been a widespread effort by small businesses, university labs and everyday Americans to create personal protective equipment for vulnerable health care professionals who are keeping patients alive and fighting the contagion.
In Illinois, many manufacturers are retooling to make essential medical supplies for local hospitals: N95 masks, hand sanitizer and secure packaging for sending COVID-19 testing samples.
With the encouragement of Democratic Gov. J.B. Pritzker, the Illinois Manufacturers’ Association and the Illinois Biotechnology Association are leading an effort to streamline manufacturing and vet companies for health care providers. Hundreds of companies have reached out, said Mark Denzler, the manufacturing group’s president and CEO.
“It’s a wartime-like effort,” he said.
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Border Checkpoints Discourage Travelers Between States
Americans have long held the open road as integral to their freedom. But with the coronavirus pandemic, the once unthinkable has begun to happen: States have set up checkpoints to discourage other states’ residents from crossing their borders.
Texas, Delaware, Florida and Rhode Island are stopping drivers with out-of-state license plates and ordering them to quarantine for two weeks, if they intend to stay in the state. Those entering the state for “essential” business reasons, such as commercial traffic, appear to be exempt.
Constitutionally, states cannot prohibit residents of another state from entering, but they can require quarantines or statements of purpose.
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Texas, Delaware, Florida and Rhode Island are stopping drivers with out-of-state license plates and ordering them to quarantine for two weeks, if they intend to stay in the state. Those entering the state for “essential” business reasons, such as commercial traffic, appear to be exempt.
Constitutionally, states cannot prohibit residents of another state from entering, but they can require quarantines or statements of purpose.
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Gas hits $1.89 nationwide average, but you can get it for 79 cents in one state
Gas prices dropped to a national average of $1.89 on Thursday, down from $2.38 one month ago. AAA reports that the April 9 price was $2.75 last year.
A conflux of low demand due to stay-at-home policies aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus and a recent crude oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia is behind the dramatic drop.
Wisconsin currently has the lowest statewide average at $1.39, followed by $1.45 in Oklahoma and $1.51 in Ohio.
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A conflux of low demand due to stay-at-home policies aimed at slowing the spread of the coronavirus and a recent crude oil price war between Saudi Arabia and Russia is behind the dramatic drop.
Wisconsin currently has the lowest statewide average at $1.39, followed by $1.45 in Oklahoma and $1.51 in Ohio.
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https://www.foxnews.com/auto/gas-1-89-nationwide-average-79-cents
Social Distancing Is Working; Why The Virus Hits Hard In The 2nd Week
New York state saw its highest daily death count today, but Dr. Anthony Fauci says because of mitigation strategies like social distancing, a turnaround may be in sight.
Some people who get COVID-19 will experience relief from symptoms, only to crash in the second week. NPR's Geoff Brumfiel reports doctors think they may have found a treatment for these patients.
Plus, U.S. states are competing against each other for the same scare medical resources.
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Some people who get COVID-19 will experience relief from symptoms, only to crash in the second week. NPR's Geoff Brumfiel reports doctors think they may have found a treatment for these patients.
Plus, U.S. states are competing against each other for the same scare medical resources.
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How Safe Is It To Eat Takeout?
Don Schaffner had Thai takeout for dinner a few nights ago, just as he did occasionally in the weeks and months before the current COVID-19 pandemic.
That's worth knowing. Schaffner is a distinguished professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey whose expertise includes quantitative microbial risk assessment, predictive food microbiology, hand-washing and cross-contamination.
"I know people are worried, but from what we know currently about the virus, it's safe to eat food prepared at restaurants so long as you take the proper precautions — in particular hand-washing," says Schaffner.
As the coronavirus spreads in the U.S. and Americans heed directives to stay home, takeout and delivery of prepared food is picking up. Yet in these fearful times, many of us are wondering if eating takeout is a good idea. (Plus shouldn't we be cooking all those groceries we stocked up on?)
Luckily for lazy cooks, eating food prepared in restaurants appears to be a safe choice. Current guidance from the Food and Drug Administration states that "there is no evidence to suggest that food produced in the United States can transmit COVID-19."
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That's worth knowing. Schaffner is a distinguished professor at Rutgers University in New Jersey whose expertise includes quantitative microbial risk assessment, predictive food microbiology, hand-washing and cross-contamination.
"I know people are worried, but from what we know currently about the virus, it's safe to eat food prepared at restaurants so long as you take the proper precautions — in particular hand-washing," says Schaffner.
As the coronavirus spreads in the U.S. and Americans heed directives to stay home, takeout and delivery of prepared food is picking up. Yet in these fearful times, many of us are wondering if eating takeout is a good idea. (Plus shouldn't we be cooking all those groceries we stocked up on?)
Luckily for lazy cooks, eating food prepared in restaurants appears to be a safe choice. Current guidance from the Food and Drug Administration states that "there is no evidence to suggest that food produced in the United States can transmit COVID-19."
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Small-Town Hospitals Are Closing Just As Coronavirus Arrives In Rural America
By this time next week, Decatur County, Tenn., will have lost its only hospital, Decatur County General, which has been serving the rural community of about 12,000 people along the Tennessee River since 1963.
The hospital's human resources director, Melinda Hays-Kirkwood, has already begun laying off people, and she says by next week only a skeleton staff will remain.
"It's hard on these employees that have been here a long time. I've got people who have been here for 30 years," Hays-Kirkwood says. "For some people, this has been their only job out of college."
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The hospital's human resources director, Melinda Hays-Kirkwood, has already begun laying off people, and she says by next week only a skeleton staff will remain.
"It's hard on these employees that have been here a long time. I've got people who have been here for 30 years," Hays-Kirkwood says. "For some people, this has been their only job out of college."
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White House Announces New Guidance For How Critical Employees Can Return To Work
The federal government has released new guidelines for when people in critical infrastructure roles can return to work after being exposed to a confirmed or suspected case of coronavirus.
The guidance pertains to essential critical workers who have been exposed to COVID-19. For those individuals, the guidelines advise:
- Take your temperature before work.
- Wear a face mask at all times.
- Practice social distancing in the workplace as work duties permit
The guidelines advise individuals not to:
- Stay at work if you become sick.
- Share headsets or other items used near one's face.
- Congregate in the break room, lunchroom, or other crowded places.
Employers are asked to:
- Take the employee's temperature and assess their symptoms before the employee starts back at work.
- If the employee becomes sick during the day, they should be sent home immediately.
- Increase the air exchange in the building.
- Increase the cleaning of commonly touched surfaces.
- Test the use of face masks to ensure they don't interfere with workflow.
The new guidelines were announced at the White House on Wednesday. The guidelines are part of the government's effort to "re-open" the country, which has been brought to an economic halt due to the coronavirus and the extensive measures introduced to stem its spread. President Trump said Wednesday that he believes the country can re-open "soon" and he'll consult with health experts in determining exactly when.
Ivanka Trump lassos $1.6B for virus-slammed small companies
Ivanka Trump, President Trump’s jobs czar, and Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin have rallied American banks to pony up $1.6 billion to help small businesses and Main Street Americans crushed by the coronavirus.
Initiated at a mid-March meeting with banking leaders at the White House, several this week pledged millions of dollars of help to supplement the billions of dollars set aside by the administration and Congress for programs such as the Payroll Protection Plan.
Financial giants Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Visa, Citibank, Wells Fargo, Mastercard, and smaller community outfits — Community Spirit Bank of Alabama and Mississippi, Michigan’s Grand Rapids State Bank, and Southern Bancorp of Arkansas — were part of a White House conference call Tuesday to announce their private help and outline their focus with the payroll plan.
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Initiated at a mid-March meeting with banking leaders at the White House, several this week pledged millions of dollars of help to supplement the billions of dollars set aside by the administration and Congress for programs such as the Payroll Protection Plan.
Financial giants Bank of America, Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase, Visa, Citibank, Wells Fargo, Mastercard, and smaller community outfits — Community Spirit Bank of Alabama and Mississippi, Michigan’s Grand Rapids State Bank, and Southern Bancorp of Arkansas — were part of a White House conference call Tuesday to announce their private help and outline their focus with the payroll plan.
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FDA Commissioner Dr. Stephen Hahn: Coronavirus Antibodies Testing Ramping Up, Plasma-Based Treatments on the Way
Food and Drug Administration (FDA) administrator Dr. Stephen Hahn told Breitbart News exclusively on Wednesday that his agency is working with private industry leaders to bring more antibody testing and promising potential plasma-based treatments for the coronavirus to the American public.
First and foremost, Hahn told Breitbart News that mitigation—the wide-scale social distancing Americans nationwide are enduring as most states that have governor-issued stay-at-home orders in place—is working.
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First and foremost, Hahn told Breitbart News that mitigation—the wide-scale social distancing Americans nationwide are enduring as most states that have governor-issued stay-at-home orders in place—is working.
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Top Democrats call on DHS to release detained illegal immigrants due to coronavirus threat
Top House Democrats Tuesday called on the Department of Homeland Security to release illegal immigrants to prevent the spread of the coronavirus.
House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney and Rep. Jamie Raskin wrote to DHS acting Secretary Chad Wolf, asking him to immediately release nonviolent detainees.
Maloney and Raskin said the detention facilities that house the illegal immigrants are not equipped to deal with a coronavirus outbreak. The two lawmakers said 19 detained illegal immigrants and seven immigration enforcement officers have tested positive for the coronavirus at six Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities.
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House Oversight and Government Reform Committee Chairwoman Carolyn Maloney and Rep. Jamie Raskin wrote to DHS acting Secretary Chad Wolf, asking him to immediately release nonviolent detainees.
Maloney and Raskin said the detention facilities that house the illegal immigrants are not equipped to deal with a coronavirus outbreak. The two lawmakers said 19 detained illegal immigrants and seven immigration enforcement officers have tested positive for the coronavirus at six Immigration and Customs Enforcement facilities.
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Hooters laying off 416 employees at 14 company-owned NC restaurants, two in Triad
Hooters of America LLC has eliminated 416 jobs at 14 corporate-owned North Carolina restaurants in response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
That includes 30 employees each at its 3031 High Point Road restaurant in Greensboro and 3122 Garden Road in Burlington.
The restaurant chain made the employee reduction decision March 23. A WARN Act notice to the N.C. Commerce Department was received Monday.
Hooters officials stressed Wednesday that despite the language it used in the WARN notice, the restaurants remain open for takeout and delivery meals with limited staff, and delivery services.
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That includes 30 employees each at its 3031 High Point Road restaurant in Greensboro and 3122 Garden Road in Burlington.
The restaurant chain made the employee reduction decision March 23. A WARN Act notice to the N.C. Commerce Department was received Monday.
Hooters officials stressed Wednesday that despite the language it used in the WARN notice, the restaurants remain open for takeout and delivery meals with limited staff, and delivery services.
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Doctor prescribing Trump-touted anti-malarial drug to coronavirus patients claims it 'absolutely' works
A Colorado family physician claimed that prescribing the drug touted by President Trump as a treatment for the coronavirus, combined with an antibiotic, has reversed his patients' symptoms in a matter of “a day or two.”
Dr. Constantine Tsamasfyros has practiced medicine in Denver for 50 years and began treating about a dozen coronavirus patients with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine and an antibiotic called azithromycin about four weeks ago.
“They all did well. They seemed to reverse their symptoms in a day or two,” Tsamasfyros told CBS Denver this week.
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Dr. Constantine Tsamasfyros has practiced medicine in Denver for 50 years and began treating about a dozen coronavirus patients with the anti-malarial drug hydroxychloroquine and an antibiotic called azithromycin about four weeks ago.
“They all did well. They seemed to reverse their symptoms in a day or two,” Tsamasfyros told CBS Denver this week.
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Jill Stein encourages followers to leave the Democratic Party after Bernie left
Former Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein responded to the end of the presidential campaign of Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) by telling her followers to exit the Democratic Party, and many Democrats were incensed at the suggestion.
"Bernie Sanders ran a good race. Now it's clearer than ever: establishment Dems' top priority is sabotaging progressives to maintain their own power," Stein tweeted on Wednesday.
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"Bernie Sanders ran a good race. Now it's clearer than ever: establishment Dems' top priority is sabotaging progressives to maintain their own power," Stein tweeted on Wednesday.
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'Seriously?': Rep. Jim Jordan slams Democrats calling for coronavirus relief funding to illegal immigrants
Rep. Jim Jordan slammed House Democrats for pushing for benefits for illegal immigrants in the next coronavirus relief package.
“House Democrats are already demanding that illegal immigrants receive benefits in the next #coronavirus aid package,” the Ohio Republican wrote Wednesday. “Seriously? That can’t happen while so many American families are struggling.”
House Democrats are already demanding that illegal immigrants receive benefits in the next #coronavirus aid package.
“House Democrats are already demanding that illegal immigrants receive benefits in the next #coronavirus aid package,” the Ohio Republican wrote Wednesday. “Seriously? That can’t happen while so many American families are struggling.”
House Democrats are already demanding that illegal immigrants receive benefits in the next #coronavirus aid package.
Seriously?More
That can’t happen while so many American families are struggling.— Rep. Jim Jordan (@Jim_Jordan) April 8, 2020
Report say American Companies are leaving China en Masse
The coronavirus pandemic may get American companies to do something the government has wanted for decades: return manufacturing to the United States.
Global manufacturing consulting firm Kearney released a report Tuesday that shows American manufacturing companies are leaving China en masse, spurred first by the trade war and solidified by China's inability to contain COVID-19 after unleashing it on the global community.
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Global manufacturing consulting firm Kearney released a report Tuesday that shows American manufacturing companies are leaving China en masse, spurred first by the trade war and solidified by China's inability to contain COVID-19 after unleashing it on the global community.
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Ted Cruz speculates China inadvertently released and attempted cover-up of the coronavirus
Sen. Ted Cruz said the novel coronavirus may have inadvertently escaped from a Chinese laboratory and that his theory "explains" China's cover-up of the virus.
During a radio interview on The Michael Berry Show, the Texas Republican said it was possible China accidentally released the virus from a laboratory near Wuhan, China, and assigned blame to the communist government for the COVID-19 outbreak in the United States.
"What there's a real possibility of is that it accidentally escaped, that somebody accidentally got infected. They're studying the virus, and they accidentally got bitten or scratched, or somehow got the virus. And then they took it out and inadvertently caused the outbreak. And I got to say, that would explain a lot of the Chinese government's panicked efforts to cover this up," Cruz said.
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During a radio interview on The Michael Berry Show, the Texas Republican said it was possible China accidentally released the virus from a laboratory near Wuhan, China, and assigned blame to the communist government for the COVID-19 outbreak in the United States.
"What there's a real possibility of is that it accidentally escaped, that somebody accidentally got infected. They're studying the virus, and they accidentally got bitten or scratched, or somehow got the virus. And then they took it out and inadvertently caused the outbreak. And I got to say, that would explain a lot of the Chinese government's panicked efforts to cover this up," Cruz said.
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Chicago Mayor's Executive order grants Coronavirus benefits to illegals
CHICAGO — Chicago immigrants who do not have legal status in the U.S. are eligible for all relief programs run by the city amid the coronavirus outbreak, Mayor Lori Lightfoot ordered Tuesday.
Lightfoot said that includes programs for housing assistance and low-interest small business loans administered by the city.
Immigrants who do not have legal status in the U.S. are excluded from the $2 trillion federal relief package approved by Congress. The package is limited to those who have filed federal taxes using Social Security Numbers.
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Lightfoot said that includes programs for housing assistance and low-interest small business loans administered by the city.
Immigrants who do not have legal status in the U.S. are excluded from the $2 trillion federal relief package approved by Congress. The package is limited to those who have filed federal taxes using Social Security Numbers.
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Maryland Secretary of State, Attorney General Warn of Possible Charity Scams Related to COVID-19
ANNAPOLIS, MD—The Federal Trade Commission has reported that scammers are taking advantage of fears surrounding the coronavirus, including through the sale of counterfeit products and the solicitation of money and personal information. When charities request donations in response to the coronavirus, Marylanders may feel duty-bound to donate in an effort to help their neighbors. Maryland’s Secretary of State John C. Wobensmith and Maryland Attorney General Brian E. Frosh are cautioning Marylanders to be vigilant and to donate wisely.
“During uncertain times, con artists prey on your generosity and create scams, frauds or deceptive acts to line their own pockets,” warns Secretary Wobensmith. “Be sure you know who you are giving to, and remember it is always best to give directly to well-established, reputable charitable organizations.”
The Office of the Secretary of State registers and regulates charitable organizations that solicit charitable contributions in Maryland. Together with the Attorney General’s Office, the Secretary of State’s Office works to ensure that charitable contributions go to qualified charitable organizations and are used for their intended purpose.
“Fraudsters will take advantage of nearly any opportunity to steal other people’s money,” said Attorney General Frosh. “Consumers can avoid being cheated by understanding how thieves are trying to steal their personal information and money. It is always wise to research the charity first before donating, and avoid any charity or fundraiser that is reluctant to give information on how donations are used.”
For more tips on how to give wisely, Marylanders can visit the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Division publication Consumer's Edge Charitable Giving Tips.
The Office of the Secretary of State maintains a public registry of charitable organizations authorized to solicit in Maryland. For more information and to search the registry, please visit the Secretary of State’s charities database.
If you think that you have been a victim of a deceptive or illegal charitable solicitation, contact the Charities and Legal Services Division of the Secretary of State’s Office: 410-974-5521 or 1-800-825-4510.
“During uncertain times, con artists prey on your generosity and create scams, frauds or deceptive acts to line their own pockets,” warns Secretary Wobensmith. “Be sure you know who you are giving to, and remember it is always best to give directly to well-established, reputable charitable organizations.”
The Office of the Secretary of State registers and regulates charitable organizations that solicit charitable contributions in Maryland. Together with the Attorney General’s Office, the Secretary of State’s Office works to ensure that charitable contributions go to qualified charitable organizations and are used for their intended purpose.
“Fraudsters will take advantage of nearly any opportunity to steal other people’s money,” said Attorney General Frosh. “Consumers can avoid being cheated by understanding how thieves are trying to steal their personal information and money. It is always wise to research the charity first before donating, and avoid any charity or fundraiser that is reluctant to give information on how donations are used.”
For more tips on how to give wisely, Marylanders can visit the Maryland Attorney General’s Office, Consumer Protection Division publication Consumer's Edge Charitable Giving Tips.
The Office of the Secretary of State maintains a public registry of charitable organizations authorized to solicit in Maryland. For more information and to search the registry, please visit the Secretary of State’s charities database.
If you think that you have been a victim of a deceptive or illegal charitable solicitation, contact the Charities and Legal Services Division of the Secretary of State’s Office: 410-974-5521 or 1-800-825-4510.
'I think I know': Trump says Obama hesitant to endorse Biden because 'he knows something you don't know'
President Trump said he believes he knows former President Barack Obama's secret reason for not endorsing Joe Biden.
"I don't know why President Obama hasn't supported Joe Biden a long time ago. There's something he feels is wrong," Trump said during a Wednesday press briefing at the White House. He went on to remark that Obama would not want him to win reelection.
"He knows something that you don't know, that I think I know. But you don't know," Trump added.
This week, former Vice President Joe Biden and Trump spoke over the phone to discuss the federal government's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
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"I don't know why President Obama hasn't supported Joe Biden a long time ago. There's something he feels is wrong," Trump said during a Wednesday press briefing at the White House. He went on to remark that Obama would not want him to win reelection.
"He knows something that you don't know, that I think I know. But you don't know," Trump added.
This week, former Vice President Joe Biden and Trump spoke over the phone to discuss the federal government's response to the coronavirus pandemic.
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Biden, at first virtual event as presumptive nominee, says he's 'coming for' Kamala Harris
At a virtual town hall on Wednesday, just hours after Bernie Sanders dropped out of the presidential race, Joe Biden assumed the mantle of his party's presumptive nominee -- and, at a separate virtual fundraiser, the former vice president suggested that one-time rival Kamala Harris may play a big role in his campaign going forward.
Streaming live to some 1,621 viewers on YouTube, Biden praised Sanders during the town hall for being a persistent and "passionate voice for progress," and also lauded the Vermont senator for "energizing millions of supporters."
"Earlier today my good friend Bernie Sanders announced he was suspending his campaign," Biden, whose comments were sometimes muddled, said at one point. "He didn't just run a political campaign. He created a movement."
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Streaming live to some 1,621 viewers on YouTube, Biden praised Sanders during the town hall for being a persistent and "passionate voice for progress," and also lauded the Vermont senator for "energizing millions of supporters."
"Earlier today my good friend Bernie Sanders announced he was suspending his campaign," Biden, whose comments were sometimes muddled, said at one point. "He didn't just run a political campaign. He created a movement."
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Trump lays into Tennessee Valley Authority, saying he’d support big cuts to CEO’s salary
President Trump said he would support dramatically slashing the salary of the head of the Tennessee Valley Authority, the largest U.S. public power company, who he said earned a “ridiculous” amount of money.
He “has to be the highest paid man in any government,” Trump said during a coronavirus task force briefing Wednesday. “I don’t know the gentleman, but he’s got a heck of a job.”
Asked if he would support cutting the Tennessee Valley Authority CEO’s salary as part of any forthcoming infrastructure package, Trump said he’d support “reducing it by a lot.”
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He “has to be the highest paid man in any government,” Trump said during a coronavirus task force briefing Wednesday. “I don’t know the gentleman, but he’s got a heck of a job.”
Asked if he would support cutting the Tennessee Valley Authority CEO’s salary as part of any forthcoming infrastructure package, Trump said he’d support “reducing it by a lot.”
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Maryland COVID-19 Data 4-9-2020
COVID-19 Statistics in Maryland
Number of Confirmed Cases: 6,185
Number of negative test results: 35,344
Number of Deaths: 138
Hospitalizations: 1,348 ever hospitalized
Released From Isolation: 376
Cases and Deaths by County (deaths):
Allegany 8
Anne Arundel 505, (12)
Baltimore City 638, (13)
Baltimore County 979, (16)
Calvert 66, (1)
Caroline 12
Carroll 203, (18)
Cecil 54, (1)
Charles 180, (3)
Dorchester 7
Frederick 233, (4)
Garrett 5
Harford 101
Howard 299, (4)
Kent 9
Montgomery 1,214 (29)
Prince George's 1,476, (35)
Queen Anne's 17
St. Mary's 65
Somerset 4
Talbot 13 (1)
Washington 60
Wicomico 21, (1)
Worcester 16
Cases and Deaths by Age Range and Gender (deaths):
0-9 33
10-19 127
20-29 701
30-39 1,076 (4)
40-49 1,145 (4)
50-59 1,282 (16)
60-69 913 (28)
70-79 600 (43)
80+ 308 (43)
Female: 3,320 (53)
Male: 2,865 (85)
Cases and Deaths by Race (deaths):
African-American 2,064 (55)
Asian 122 (6)
White 1,540 (39)
Other 449 (3)
Data not available 1,354 (21)
Dr. Fauci says US should be able to reopen schools in fall
Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and the face of the White House's coronavirus response, predicted Tuesday night that the United States will be able to reopen its schools in the fall thanks to the expected progress by then in disease mitigation measures for the coronavirus.
Fauci made the comments in response to a reporter during the daily White House Coronavirus Task Force briefing.
"You know, it is unpredictable, but you can get a feel for it if we start talking about the things where the curve goes down," Fauci said. "How we respond and what kind of a rebound we see or don't see, I think is going to have a lot of influence probably more immediately on things like summer camps than it does in the fall," he continued.
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Fauci made the comments in response to a reporter during the daily White House Coronavirus Task Force briefing.
"You know, it is unpredictable, but you can get a feel for it if we start talking about the things where the curve goes down," Fauci said. "How we respond and what kind of a rebound we see or don't see, I think is going to have a lot of influence probably more immediately on things like summer camps than it does in the fall," he continued.
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Looters are targeting restaurants and businesses left idle in the US
Businesses across the United States, some boarded up and temporarily closed while others struggle to stay open, continue to suffer from looters taking advantage of COVID-19 pandemic.
While overall crime has decreased as a result of mass shelter-in-place orders across the country, looting and burglaries have become more prominent in various cities.
Many law agencies are asking their local politicians to increase fines for people who steal from businesses during the period when businesses are shut for thecoronavirus.
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While overall crime has decreased as a result of mass shelter-in-place orders across the country, looting and burglaries have become more prominent in various cities.
Many law agencies are asking their local politicians to increase fines for people who steal from businesses during the period when businesses are shut for thecoronavirus.
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Mark Levin blasts CNN's Wolf Blitzer: 'We know the POTUS isn't a real doctor, just like we know you're not a REAL journalist'
'You know, you're a real A-hole, Wolf'
On Tuesday's "LevinTV," host Mark Levin blasted CNN's Wolf Blitzer for saying President Donald Trump should not "continue to promote" hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus because he isn't a "real doctor."
"You know, you're a real A-hole, Wolf. We know the president of the United States isn't a 'real doctor', just like we know you're not a realjournalist," Mark said. "But there are real doctors who are recommending this [hydroxychloroquine]. It really is outrageous. He [Blitzer] has become very vicious. I would ask him and all of CNN and MSNBC and all the rest of them: If you get this coronavirus, will you now commit to us that you will not take this drug?"
Watch the video below to hear more from "the Great One" — Mark Levin:
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On Tuesday's "LevinTV," host Mark Levin blasted CNN's Wolf Blitzer for saying President Donald Trump should not "continue to promote" hydroxychloroquine to treat coronavirus because he isn't a "real doctor."
"You know, you're a real A-hole, Wolf. We know the president of the United States isn't a 'real doctor', just like we know you're not a realjournalist," Mark said. "But there are real doctors who are recommending this [hydroxychloroquine]. It really is outrageous. He [Blitzer] has become very vicious. I would ask him and all of CNN and MSNBC and all the rest of them: If you get this coronavirus, will you now commit to us that you will not take this drug?"
Watch the video below to hear more from "the Great One" — Mark Levin:
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'Progress': Administration claims pandemic inflection point
The Trump administration claimed Tuesday that the coronavirus pandemic that has been spreading like wildfire is showing signs of slowing down.
“There does appear to be evidence of leveling, evidence of progress,” Vice President Mike Pence said at a White House press briefing.
New cases have slowed from 33,000 a day to 29,000 each day, according to Johns Hopkins University data. Some 390,000 people have been infected in the United States as of Tuesday night, and 12,700 have died.
Pence credited social distancing with slowing the spread, calling the latest tallies “glimmers of hope.”
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“There does appear to be evidence of leveling, evidence of progress,” Vice President Mike Pence said at a White House press briefing.
New cases have slowed from 33,000 a day to 29,000 each day, according to Johns Hopkins University data. Some 390,000 people have been infected in the United States as of Tuesday night, and 12,700 have died.
Pence credited social distancing with slowing the spread, calling the latest tallies “glimmers of hope.”
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Pelosi Leads Democratic Effort to Use Health Crisis to Change Election Laws
She's at it again. After nearly torpedoing the CARES Act with a farfetched, radical, extreme environmental wish list, House Speaker Nancy Pelosi is once again trying to attach her liberal wish list to Phase 4 of Congress's coronavirus relief response. This time Pelosi is focusing in on her plan to usher in mandatory mail-in voting.
CNN's Anderson Cooper asked Pelosi directly if she would try to change election laws in the wake of the coronavirus. She would.
The provisions the Democrats are asking for, she said, "guarantees to vote from home for upcoming general election." In Phase 4, or CARES 2, she explained, "yes we want the resources to be there and no obstacles to that voting to take place."
"It's about our democracy," she argued, "and a time where it's even a physical challenge to vote."
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CNN's Anderson Cooper asked Pelosi directly if she would try to change election laws in the wake of the coronavirus. She would.
The provisions the Democrats are asking for, she said, "guarantees to vote from home for upcoming general election." In Phase 4, or CARES 2, she explained, "yes we want the resources to be there and no obstacles to that voting to take place."
"It's about our democracy," she argued, "and a time where it's even a physical challenge to vote."
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CBS reairs footage of Italian hospital after blaming first incident on 'editing mistake'
CBS News reaired footage of an Italian hospital during a segment about U.S. medical facilities scrambling to deal with overcrowding because of the coronavirus.
The network received criticism last week after airing incorrect footage while reporting on New York hospitals and the ventilator shortage.
"It was an editing mistake," a CBS spokesperson told the Washington Examiner. "We took immediate steps to remove it from all platforms and shows."
Social media users pointed out the same footage appeared again on Wednesday on CBS News Digital, its streaming platform.
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The network received criticism last week after airing incorrect footage while reporting on New York hospitals and the ventilator shortage.
"It was an editing mistake," a CBS spokesperson told the Washington Examiner. "We took immediate steps to remove it from all platforms and shows."
Social media users pointed out the same footage appeared again on Wednesday on CBS News Digital, its streaming platform.
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Spatial Disorientation Found As Cause of 2018 Fatal Plane Crash
OCEAN CITY — A little over two years after a fatal plane crash in the water just off the coast of the Ocean City Airport claimed the life of the pilot and presumably the female passenger, a report released this week suggests spatial disorientation, a phenomenon associated with night flying, was likely the cause.
On Feb. 28, 2018, a Cessna 172S airplane piloted by Marcson Ngwa, 28, of Windsor Mill, Md. accompanied by Benica Richards-Robinson, 28, of Gwynn Oak, Md., went down in the Atlantic Ocean about a mile from the Ocean City Municipal Airport. The following morning, when the rented airplane had not returned to Martin State Airport in Baltimore County where the ill-fated flight originated, a massive search effort was initiated.
On March 1, an oil slick was located about two miles off the coast of the Ocean City Municipal Airport and search efforts were focused there. Late that same day, the plane’s fuselage and a wing were located on the ocean floor below the oil slick and Ngwa’s deceased body was recovered. The search continued off and on over the next two weeks, hampered by back-to-back coastal storms at times. About two weeks later, Maryland State Police investigators announced search and recovery efforts had ended. Richards-Robinson was never recovered and is presumed deceased.
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On Feb. 28, 2018, a Cessna 172S airplane piloted by Marcson Ngwa, 28, of Windsor Mill, Md. accompanied by Benica Richards-Robinson, 28, of Gwynn Oak, Md., went down in the Atlantic Ocean about a mile from the Ocean City Municipal Airport. The following morning, when the rented airplane had not returned to Martin State Airport in Baltimore County where the ill-fated flight originated, a massive search effort was initiated.
On March 1, an oil slick was located about two miles off the coast of the Ocean City Municipal Airport and search efforts were focused there. Late that same day, the plane’s fuselage and a wing were located on the ocean floor below the oil slick and Ngwa’s deceased body was recovered. The search continued off and on over the next two weeks, hampered by back-to-back coastal storms at times. About two weeks later, Maryland State Police investigators announced search and recovery efforts had ended. Richards-Robinson was never recovered and is presumed deceased.
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'Now is not the time for blame': Tracy Morgan defends Trump and calls for unity amid coronavirus crisis
Comedian Tracy Morgan said people criticizing President Trump for his response to the outbreak of the coronavirus should instead focus on supporting one another during the time of crisis.
“The struggle is real,” Morgan said Wednesday on the Today show. “People want to criticize the president, but imagine being a president of a country and have your country got sick. So, it’s difficult for him. We’ve all got to pull together as people, now.”
Morgan continued, "Now is not the time for blame and all these other things and anger. It’s here now. We just got to be together. We’ve got to all stay safe. Nobody wants to transmit it, nobody wants to attract it, nobody wants to get it. So, let's just stay safe and do the protocol that we have to do."
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“The struggle is real,” Morgan said Wednesday on the Today show. “People want to criticize the president, but imagine being a president of a country and have your country got sick. So, it’s difficult for him. We’ve all got to pull together as people, now.”
Morgan continued, "Now is not the time for blame and all these other things and anger. It’s here now. We just got to be together. We’ve got to all stay safe. Nobody wants to transmit it, nobody wants to attract it, nobody wants to get it. So, let's just stay safe and do the protocol that we have to do."
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Democrats seek to pass $500B plus expanded food stamps in economic relief legislation this week
House and Senate Democrats are demanding Congress approve a $500 billion relief package this week that includes a 15% increase in food stamp benefits.
The request more than doubles the $250 billion in emergency funding sought by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to extend urgent small business aid that is running dry. Democrats want the additional money for healthcare facilities and to help state and local governments.
“The heartbreaking acceleration of the coronavirus crisis demands bold, urgent and ongoing action from Congress to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement Wednesday. “As Democrats have said since Day One, Congress must provide additional relief for small businesses and families, building on the strong down-payment made in the bipartisan CARES Act.”
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The request more than doubles the $250 billion in emergency funding sought by Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin to extend urgent small business aid that is running dry. Democrats want the additional money for healthcare facilities and to help state and local governments.
“The heartbreaking acceleration of the coronavirus crisis demands bold, urgent and ongoing action from Congress to protect Americans’ lives and livelihoods,” Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a joint statement Wednesday. “As Democrats have said since Day One, Congress must provide additional relief for small businesses and families, building on the strong down-payment made in the bipartisan CARES Act.”
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A Viewer Writes: Eastern Shore Man Dies From Covid-19
Publishers Notes: I asked my source if these people were all from the Eastern Shore. He replied, "Yes Sir."
High school daughter of slain University of Wisconsin doctor and her husband is pictured for the first time - as it's revealed she was living with the prime suspect and is under investigation for her actions on the night of the murder
These are the first pictures of the high school senior who is at the center of the 'brutal execution' of her adoptive parents.
Mimi Potter Carre, 18, was dating her classmate who is now accused of shooting University of Wisconsin professor Beth Potter and her half-naked husband at point-blank range and leaving them for dead.
Her pictures seem to show that Mimi didn't have a care in the world as she horses around with her brothers, plays with her dog and poses in front of a mirror for a selfie.
But now her world has come crashing down after boyfriend Khari Sanford allegedly killed Dr. Potter — who was helping the university in its response to the coronaviruscrisis — and her husband, educational consultant Robin Carre.
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Mimi Potter Carre, 18, was dating her classmate who is now accused of shooting University of Wisconsin professor Beth Potter and her half-naked husband at point-blank range and leaving them for dead.
Her pictures seem to show that Mimi didn't have a care in the world as she horses around with her brothers, plays with her dog and poses in front of a mirror for a selfie.
But now her world has come crashing down after boyfriend Khari Sanford allegedly killed Dr. Potter — who was helping the university in its response to the coronaviruscrisis — and her husband, educational consultant Robin Carre.
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Ilhan Omar calls Bernie Sanders 2020 exit both 'setback' and 'opportunity' for liberal moment
Rep. Ilhan Omar said she still wants to "fight like hell" to prevent President Trump's reelection even though Sen. Bernie Sanders ended his presidential campaign.
"Today, our movement faces a setback," the Minnesota Democrat said Wednesday after news broke that the Vermont senator was dropping out of the White House race. "But every single setback is an opportunity to push for progress."
"Today, our movement faces a setback," the Minnesota Democrat said Wednesday after news broke that the Vermont senator was dropping out of the White House race. "But every single setback is an opportunity to push for progress."
The American people still want to live in a society where their human right to healthcare is guaranteed, where we confront the climate crisis, and where they are not shackled with debt.— Ilhan Omar (@IlhanMN) April 8, 2020More
Wait...How Many Doctors Think Hydroxychloroquine Is Effective Against the Wuhan Coronavirus?
So, is it effective? Hydroxychloroquine is an anti-malarial drug that has been reported to be effective against the symptoms of the Wuhan coronavirus. Yet, Dr. Anthony Fauci, the director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and one of President Trump’s top officials working to curb the outbreak in the U.S., has warned against saying this is full proof. He’s a professional. This is a new virus. This drug has not been tested in this regard, butthousands of doctors are saying it works.
In Michigan, Democratic State Representative Karen Whitsett contracted the disease and was given the drug. She said she felt relief from her symptoms in less than two hours. She was aware of hydroxychloroquine due to a recent Lyme’s Disease diagnosis but didn’t know it could be used to treat COVID-19. She credits the drug and President Trump for possibly saving her life.
Jackson and Coker, a healthcare staffing firm, did a survey of 1,200 doctors nationwide and found that 65 percent would prescribe the drug to their family if they were infected with the Wuhan coronavirus, with 67 percent saying they would take the drug themselves:
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Jackson and Coker, a healthcare staffing firm, did a survey of 1,200 doctors nationwide and found that 65 percent would prescribe the drug to their family if they were infected with the Wuhan coronavirus, with 67 percent saying they would take the drug themselves:
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John Prine, Grammy-winning singer-songwriter, dead at 73 from coronavirus complications
Grammy-winning folk and country singer-songwriter John Prine died Tuesday from complications related to coronavirus, his family confirmed to Rolling Stone. He was 73. He had been hospitalized March 26 and placed on a ventilator two days later.
His family tweeted news about his critical condition the following Sunday: “This is hard news for us to share. But so many of you have loved and supported John over the years, we wanted to let you know, and give you the chance to send out more of that love and support now. And know that we love you, and John loves you.”
His wife Fiona Whelan Prine, whom he married in 1996, said Monday that she had recovered from the virus but John was still in critical condition.
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His family tweeted news about his critical condition the following Sunday: “This is hard news for us to share. But so many of you have loved and supported John over the years, we wanted to let you know, and give you the chance to send out more of that love and support now. And know that we love you, and John loves you.”
His wife Fiona Whelan Prine, whom he married in 1996, said Monday that she had recovered from the virus but John was still in critical condition.
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