POLICY & POLITICS
North SJ Valley:
Modesto brings workers back full time after limiting hours because of pandemic
Modesto Bee
The city workers who trim trees, clear clogged sewer lines, fill potholes and do similar work are back on the job full time after Modesto had them work part time but at full pay as one of its efforts to keep employees safe during the pandemic.
Coronavirus stopped school, not learning for special ed students in Stanislaus County
Modesto Bee
Coronavirus pandemic closed schools, districts were jetted into distance learning. Teachers are tackling challenges for special ed students.
Merced County residents could be fined, face charges for failing to follow new health order
abc30
A new order issued Wednesday bans all non-essential travel and unnecessary gatherings of any number of people, including church and funeral services.
Central SJ Valley:
Protect family by skipping Easter gatherings, Fresno officials warn. And about those parades...
Fresno Bee
A top Fresno County health official urged people to stay home and practice social distancing during the upcoming Easter weekend, calling gatherings “dangerous” because of the risk of spreading the coronavirus.
See also:
● Local leaders worried that Easter weekend could lead to greater COVID-19 spread abc30
● EDITORIAL: A Fresno County wedding party has us shaking our heads. For the sake of public health, stop Fresno Bee
Finance Director: Pandemic ‘Impacting’ Madera County’s Budget
Sierra News
The Madera County Board of Supervisors heard some sobering statistics this week about how COVID-19 is impacting County coffers.
See also:
● Local governments brace for budgetary impact of coronavirus Valley News
She got coronavirus at a funeral and died. Her family honored her with a drive-up service
Los Angeles Times
On Wednesday afternoon, five cars filled with grieving members of Wanda DeSelle’s family and friend group rolled into Madera’s Arbor Vitae cemetery. DeSelle died from complications of coronavirus. She apparently had contracted COVID-19 from a previous funeral.
South SJ Valley:
Assemblymember Rudy Salas speaks on states response to COVID-19
KBAK
California residents continue to get daily updates on the state's response to COVID-19. One of the biggest impacts of the shelter-in-place order here in Kern County, is the effect on local businesses.
City Council approves fee, tax deferrals for Bakersfield businesses
Bakersfield Californian
Businesses in Bakersfield will receive extra time to pay fees and certain local taxes under an emergency relief package unanimously approved Wednesday by the City Council.
Kern Sol News
The McFarland City Council will appoint someone to fill a council vacancy at Thursday’s City Council meeting, after advocates urged officials to postpone last month’s meeting to a later date when the public can offer their feedback.
Love in the time of coronavirus is complicated, after Kern County stops issuing marriage licenses
Bakersfield Californian
The Kern County Clerk’s Office, following the lead of most counties throughout the state, has stopped issuing marriage licenses. In an average month, the office issues between 350 and 400 licenses.
State:
California to buy 200 million masks a month amid outbreak
Bakersfield Californian
California plans to spend nearly $1 billion to buy up to 200 million masks each month to boost its stockpile of protective gear during the coronavirus outbreak, an eye-popping figure meant to turn the state into a distributor of medical equipment for other Western states struggling with supply shortages.
See also:
● How California is getting 200 million masks a month for coronavirus, and what it will costSacramento Bee
● California Secures 200 Million Masks A Month In ‘Big Bold Bet’ Capital Public Radio
● #PresidentNewsom trends on Twitter after California’s governor appears on Rachel Maddow Show Sacramento Bee
● As governors step up, CA assumes nation-state status CalMatters
● Newsom the Beneficent? California governor steps into pandemic supply vacuum CalMatters
● The art of the deal: California’s alliance could solve the nation’s mask shortage CalMatters
● Newsom: California's enormous mask order won't disrupt supply chain for others Politico
● California Launches $1.4 Billion Plan to Buy Medical Equipment Bloomberg
California counties scrambling to find ventilators as Newsom sends 500 to other states
Los Angeles Times
Newsom’s decision to lend 500 state-owned ventilators to New York and other coronavirus hot spots outside California has caught some local officials in his own state off guard as they scramble to acquire the much-needed medical equipment, particularly in Riverside County.
See also:
● California lacked enough medical equipment for COVID-19 wave as disease hit state, records show Sacramento Bee
● How a surge of coronavirus patients could stretch hospital resources in your area Washington Post
When will California stay-at-home order end? Newsom says still too early to tell
Los Angeles Times
Gov. Gavin Newsom repeated Wednesday that the duration of the coronavirus stay-at-home order is dependent on whether Californians continue to follow it and wear appropriate face coverings if they go out.
See also:
● See how the COVID-19 death rate has slowed in California. Flattening the curve may be working Sacramento Bee
● California won’t be lifting coronavirus stay-at-home rules anytime soon. Here’s why Los Angeles Times
● See how California’s battle against the coronavirus is progressing — in 6 charts Fresno Bee
● California is still way behind in coronavirus testing despite recent advances Los Angeles Times
● How California has contained coronavirus — and New York has not San Jose Mercury
● 'A reality check on the math': What's ahead for California and Covid-19 The Guardian
● How Will We Know When It’s Time to Reopen the Nation? New York Times
● How California Has Avoided a Coronavirus Outbreak as Bad as New York’s…So Far Wall Street Journal
EDITORIAL: California’s policymakers are leading the way in curbing the coronavirus
San Francisco Chronicle
It’s risky to dole out praise and offer hope amid this pandemic. But California and its leaders from Gov. Gavin Newsom on down are taking the serious steps needed to limit the human toll.
See also:
● Governing Under Coronavirus, State Legislature Contemplates Remote Meetings KQED
Commentary: What’s at stake for California communities in the U.S. Census?
CalMatters
The census is used by federal, state and local governments to allocate more than $800 billion in funding for critical services, such as health care which we will see in great demand as the state and local communities respond to COVID-19 and care for us and our neighbors.
See also:
● Dolores Huerta and Chet P. Hewitt: Let’s get the Valley counted Bakersfield Californian
Federal:
New data suggest U.S. coronavirus death toll may not be as high as feared
Los Angeles Times
Public health experts say information about the spread of the novel coronavirus through Texas and Florida in coming days could be crucial in predicting how many Americans are likely to die from the pandemic.
See also:
● Fauci Says U.S. Coronavirus Deaths May Be 'More Like 60,000'; Antibody Tests On Way VPR
As pandemic deepens, Trump cycles through targets to blame
AP News
First, it was the media that was at fault. Then, Democratic governors came under fire. China, President Barack Obama and federal watchdogs have all had a turn in the crosshairs. And now it’s the World Health Organizationthat’s to blame.
See also:
● What we learned from Wednesday’s White House coronavirus briefing Washington Post
● Fact check: Trump offers two dangerous falsehoods in a largely straightforward briefing CNN
● McManus: Trump’s 'I’m not responsible' presidency Los Angeles Times
● Opinion: In Trump’s Marathon Briefings, the Answers and the Message Are Often Contradictory New York Times
● EDITORIAL: Trump whacks at the inspectors general appointed to keep him honest Los Angeles Times
● EDITORIAL: Trump’s Wasted Briefings Wall Street Journal
Barr calls lockdown measures ‘draconian,’ and suggests they should be revisited next month
San Francisco Chronicle
Attorney General William P. Barr said Wednesday that some of the government-imposed lockdown measures meant to control the spread of covid-19 were “draconian” and suggested that they should be eased next month.
Senate blocks small-business aid bill
The Hill
A Republican attempt to add $251 billion to a popular coronavirus response fund for forgivable small-business loans by unanimous consent was blocked Thursday, as Sen. Chris Van Hollen objected.
See also:
● Congress looks to expand small business loans as relief money runs low San Francisco Chronicle
● Mission Critical To Save The Economy: Fed Goes Even Bigger With Massive Loan Help VPR
Trump considers letting small casino businesses get loans to cover payroll
Roll Call
President Donald Trump said Wednesday that he would consider concerns raised by small casinos and gambling businesses that can’t get access to emergency loans designed to cover payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic.
EDITORIAL: Kamala Harris is right. Americans need credit card relief during coronavirus crisis
Sacramento Bee
California Sen. Kamala Harris’ call for credit card companies to suspend all fees, interest and penalties for the duration of the crisis makes sense. Harris made the argument in an essay published Wednesday on the Medium platform.
See also:
● Opinion: A compromised credit culture reduces economic growth AEI
Coronavirus Trackers:
Coronavirus (COVID-19) in California
COVID-19 is a new illness that can affect your lungs and airways. It's caused by a virus called coronavirus.
See also:
● California Department of Public Health
● Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) Pandemic - WHO
● John Hopkins University & Medicine John Hopkins University
● Tracking coronavirus in California Los Angeles Times
● Coronavirus Tracker San Francisco Chronicle
● Coronavirus in the U.S.: Latest Map and Case Count New York Times
● How many coronavirus cases have been reported in each U.S. state? Politico
● Coronavirus Daily NPR
● Coronavirus tracked: the latest figures as the pandemic spreads Financial Times
● Coronavirus in California by the numbers CalMatters
Elections 2020:
Sanders drops 2020 bid, leaving Biden as likely nominee
Fresno Bee
Sen. Bernie Sanders ended his presidential bid on Wednesday, making Joe Biden the presumptive Democratic nominee to challenge President Donald Trump in a general election campaign that will be waged against the backdrop of the coronavirus pandemic.
See also:
● Vote update: How big was Bernie’s win and the California primary’s loss? CalMatters
● Lose the battle, win the war? Sanders’ progressive allies stay optimistic after 2020 exitFresno Bee
● Why Biden may have an easier time than Clinton winning over Sanders’ base Fresno Bee
● Bernie Sanders suspends presidential campaign abc30
● Bernie Sanders Is Suspending His Presidential Campaign Capital Public Radio
● Bernie Sanders ends his presidential campaign Los Angeles Times
● Sanders’ California backers want changes from Biden before committing San Francisco Chronicle
● Bernie Sanders Drops Out of 2020 Democratic Race for President New York Times
● Opinion: Bernie Sanders’ campaign is over but his populist ideas will survive Washington Post
● EDITORIAL: Bernie Sanders changed the Democratic Party for the better. Now it’s his job to help defeat Trump Los Angeles Times
● EDITORIAL: Bernie Sanders feels the reality, drops out of presidential race San Francisco Chronicle
Opinion: Now comes the hard part: Joe Biden must unify a divided party
Los Angeles Times
Joe Biden confronted the daunting task Wednesday of uniting and energizing a party that has been through a long, divisive primary, and is now distracted by the fears and daily challenges of a global pandemic and world economic collapse.
See also:
● Biden moves quickly to exorcise ‘the ghosts of 2016’ Politico
Poll finds Biden with 11-point national lead on Trump
The Hill
The poll finds Biden with 53 percent support against 42 percent support for Trump. That’s the largest margin for any poll released this month.
See also:
● Trump vs. Biden: Who has the early lead in election polls after Sanders drops out? Fresno Bee
Campaigns are flying blind in projecting who will actually vote in a pandemic
Fresno Bee
The coronavirus pandemic is forcing political campaigns to brace for an unprecedented challenge: How to forecast who will vote in an election set during the most frightening health crisis in a century.
See also:
● California stem cell advocates plead for mail-in signatures to put measure on ballot San Francisco Chronicle
● COVID-19 Will Make California Elections Challenging but Doable Public Policy Institute of California
● Coronavirus Clampdown Could Keep Some Candidates Off Ballots
Trump Is Pushing a False Argument on Vote-by-Mail Fraud. Here Are the Facts.
New York Times
As the coronavirus pandemic accelerates a national trend toward voting by mail, experts say it can be conducted safely, despite Republican claims of corruption.
See also:
● Pants On Fire: Trump’s latest California voter fraud claim as baseless as past allegationsPolitiFact
● Majority favors November mail-in ballots if coronavirus not contained: poll The Hill
● Trump Tweet Highlights Divide Over Voting by Mail Wall Street Journal
VP talk could intensify with Harris fundraising moves
Business Journal
California Sen. Kamala Harris made two notable fundraising moves Wednesday that are sure to fuel speculation about her prospects to be Joe Biden’s running mate on the Democratic presidential ticket.
See also:
● The 11 most logical picks for Joe Biden’s vice president, ranked Washington Post
‘Put a doctor in the House’: Campaigning on pandemic’s front lines
Roll Call
Balancing a full-time job with a campaign is a difficult task even in normal times. And doctors running for the House are now seeing their day jobs become more complicated and potentially more dangerous. But they say the current crisis has only strengthened their resolve to run for office, and it proves why healthcare professionals are needed in Congress.
Los Angeles Times
Even before the coronavirus infected the economy and flattened many voters’ wallets, Californians were in a sour mood. In the March 3 primary, 61% of all local bond and tax measures failed.
Other:
Critical in a public health crisis, COVID-19 has hit local newsrooms hard
Brookings
In communities that do have a local news outlet to turn to, local newsrooms have been hit by a severe and sudden decline in revenue, forcing employee lay-offs and furloughs as well as cuts to staff hours and pay. While the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the critical need for local journalism, it threatens its provision.
Here's what needs to happen for America to return to “normal”
CBS
When will life return to "normal"? It's what parents with kids stuck at home, people out of work, and Americans across the country want to know. What will it mean to live in a post-coronavirus world?
See also:
● Dr. Anthony Fauci on How Life Returns to Normal Wall Street Journal
● Opinion: Coronavirus Is Unlike Any War Americans Have Fought. Yet We'll Win It TooNewsweek
● For All Its Coronavirus Blunders, Italy Offers Hope for Other Democracies Wall Street Journal
● Countries start thinking about easing up on restrictions Fresno Bee
AGRICULTURE/FOOD
More pay for California farm workers promised in Democrat’s coronavirus proposal Sacramento Bee
California farm workers could get an extra $3 an hour and additional sick time during the coronavirus outbreak under emergency legislation announced on Wednesday by a Central Coast Democrat.
Coronavirus outbreak could force more California dairy farms out of business
abc30
Dairies are in the middle of their "spring flush," a time when milk production hits its peak. But the demand for many dairy products, like butter, has dipped due to the COVID-19 restrictions faced by many restaurants and schools.
Why are eggs getting so expensive? Blame coronavirus demand
Los Angeles Times
As stay-at-home orders swept across the country, shoppers rushed to grocery stores and stocked up on staples, among them eggs. This surge in demand has boosted egg prices, both nationally and especially in California, and probably will for some time.
From caviar to apple juice, coronavirus is changing the way the world feeds itself
Los Angeles Times
The coronavirus pandemic is short-circuiting the global food supply chain, disrupting the seafood, dairy and almond industries.
With uptick in patients expected, local hospitals get boost from grocers and farmers
Bakersfield Californian
Local grocery stores and farmers have partnered to implement onsite markets at area hospitals, ensuring access to essential items for frontline health care employees as facilities brace for a surge of COVID-19 patients.
Coronavirus Fears Shouldn't Keep You From Ordering Takeout, Experts Say
Capital Public Radio
With fear of infection on our minds these days, it's easy to get panicky about everyday choices. Infectious disease and food safety experts weigh in on ordering dinner to go.
See also:
· Costco joins other stores giving priority access to health workers, first responders Fresno Bee
Coronavirus hit California’s cut-flower industry at the worst time
Los Angeles Times
It happened this fast: Shoppers frightened by the novel coronavirus ransacked grocery stores. Store managers shifted staff to restock shelves. The floral booth went empty. California’s cut-flower industry imploded.
Pandemic upends pot legalization
Politico
Advocates are pushing ballot referendums in nearly a dozen states, from Idaho to New Jersey. But social distancing has put ballot drives on pause and state lawmakers are overwhelmed with addressing the crisis at hand.
CRIMINAL JUSTICE/FIRE/PUBLIC SAFETY
Crime:
Domestic violence rises during shutdown, victim advocates say
San Francisco Chronicle
Domestic violence is believed to be on the rise as shelter-in-place orders are keeping nearly everyone home to combat the spread of COVID-19.
Cybersecurity breaches leave students exposed during online learning
San Francisco Chronicle
Teachers and administrators are faced with a steep learning curve in protecting student privacy, often without experts on staff to oversee contracts with technology companies or to monitor use and access.
City of Visalia - Business Rules
City of Visalia
If you own or operate a business that is not designated as one that may be open at this time, or if you own a building in which such business is being conducted, the City may take action against you.
Public Safety:
Another worker at a Chowchilla prison tests positive for coronavirus, CDCR reports
Fresno Bee
An employee at the Central California Women’s Facility in Chowchilla tested positive for the coronavirus, according to the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation.
Federal Bureau of Prisons continues to transfer inmates from Taft Correctional Institution
KGET
Taft prison inmates continue to be flown out of Meadows Field Airport to new location facilities despite opposition to the move from local officials.
Some Asian Americans become first-time gun owners for protection amid the coronavirus
Sacramento Bee
For 25 years since he immigrated to the U.S. at the age of 18, Jeffrey Lau never felt he needed to purchase a firearm. But the coronavirus outbreak changed his mind: he bought his first gun in early March to protect his family.
Fresno County courts using technology due to coronavirus
abc30
The wheels of justice are back in motion in Fresno County, but they're moving in a different way than ever before. The main Fresno County courthouse has stayed mostly empty for more than two weeks even as police made arrests and the district attorney filed dozens of cases.
Zoom sued for overstating, not disclosing privacy, security flaws
Reuters
Zoom Video Communications Inc was slapped with a class action suit by one of its shareholders on Tuesday, accusing the video-conferencing app of overstating its privacy standards and failing to disclose that its service was not end-to-end encrypted.
See also:
● Google Told Its Workers That They Can’t Use Zoom On Their Laptops Anymore BuzzFeed
● Internal Senate memo warns Zoom poses ‘high risk’ to privacy, security Politico
● How to Lock Down Your Zoom Meeting Now That Trolls are 'Zoom Bombing' KQED
CDC issues new guidance for essential workers exposed to coronavirus
The Hill
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) on Wednesday issued new guidelines aimed at getting workers who have been exposed to the coronavirus in critical fields back to work faster.
See also:
Police don’t want to arrest you for disobeying coronavirus stay-at-home order, but they can
Los Angeles Daily News
Catching a few waves these days might get you a ticket to jail. That’s what a few water enthusiasts have learned, with one ticketed in Manhattan Beach for defying closure signs. Another was arrested in Malibu for trying to escape from lifeguard boats.
Fire:
How California disasters helped the state respond to coronavirus
Politico
The deadly wildfires that swept through California with increasing ferocity in recent years delivered brutal lessons about disaster response — and may help the state confront an entirely new mortal threat.
ECONOMY/JOBS
Economy:
Health Experts Show Cautious Optimism As Economic Relief Debate Escalates
Capital Public Radio
President Trump and congressional Democrats are haggling over the size of the next bill designed to help Americans through the crisis The White House has scheduled a briefing for 5 p.m. ET.
Supes approve changes to Revolving Loan Fund to aid small business during pandemic
Stockton Record
San Joaquin County’s Revolving Loan Fund took steps this week to relieve some of the pressure put upon small businesses that have had to close or reduce operations due to California’s stay-at-home order restricting nonessential movement in the effort to stem the spread of COVID-19, the new coronavirus.
See also:
● ‘Things are becoming dire’ for struggling small businesses San Francisco Chronicle
● Opinion: Small businesses get coronavirus relief from Stanislaus County Modesto Bee
Fed Lifts Asset Cap on Wells Fargo to Get Relief Loans Flowing
Business Journal
Wells Fargo & Co. announced Wednesday it will participate in the Paycheck Protection Program, thanks to action from the Federal Reserve.
40% of California car dealers in survey say they can hold out for only 1-3 more months
San Diego Union-Tribune
Wells Fargo & Co. announced Wednesday it will participate in the Paycheck Protection In an online survey of new car dealers in California, 40 percent of the respondents said their operations during the crisis are sustainable for only one to three more months.
Jobs:
Washington Post
Last week’s jobless numbers are on top of the nearly 10 million Americans who had already applied for unemployment the two previous weeks. Economists say the collapse in jobs signals an unemployment rate of 12 percent or more, which would be the highest since the Great Depression.
Will California job losses equal the Great Recession? This economist says it will be worse
Sacramento Bee
Just a couple of weeks ago, economists were saying the coronavirus pandemic could drive unemployment rates in California to 12 percent or higher, rivaling the worst the state endured during the Great Recession. If only that were true.
See also:
● Another 461 layoffs announced in Kern Bakersfield Californian
● 1 in 5 San Joaquin County workers will be unemployed in May, report says Stockton Record
● IMF chief says pandemic will unleash worst recession since Great Depression Reuters
● 6.6 million Americans filed for unemployment last week, bringing the pandemic total to over 17 million Washington Post
● More Than 16 Million Americans Have Lost Their Jobs In The Past Three Weeks FiveThirtyEight
● Jobs Carnage Mounts: 17 Million File For Unemployment In 3 Weeks VPR
Lost your job? Here’s how to find openings, resources in California during coronavirus crisis
Fresno Bee
Fresno tech firm Bitwise Industries is a key player in building the website for job, money resources.
See also:
● How can California workers, economy recover from coronavirus crisis? Join the discussion Thursday Fresno Bee
● A decade of job growth vanishes in less than a month CBS
Extra pay for essential workers? California state unions press for coronavirus incentives
Modesto Bee
U.S. Senate Democrats announced a proposal Tuesday that has been circulating at the state level in California for a couple of weeks: extra pay for workers who risk exposure to coronavirus.
See also:
● More pay for California farm workers promised in Democrat’s coronavirus proposalSacramento Bee
Modesto brings workers back full time after limiting hours because of pandemic
Modesto Bee
The city workers who trim trees, clear clogged sewer lines, fill potholes and do similar work are back on the job full time after Modesto had them work part time but at full pay as one of its efforts to keep employees safe during the pandemic.
Capital Public Radio
The agency received federal guidance this week for how to make the relief funds available, but has struggled to get the complex new program started.
See also:
● Uber wants to redefine employment. More than 50 labor groups are fighting back Los Angeles Times
EDUCATION
K-12:
Survey: Parents concerned children will be behind due to school closures, poor internet access
Fresno Bee
Nearly 90 percent California parents surveyed are worried about their children falling behind academically due to school closures to help stop the spread of the coronavirus, according to a new poll released by student equity advocates.
See also:
● Poll: California school closures hit minorities, poor the hardest San Francisco Chronicle
Minarets High School produces weekly online videos for students to connect
abc30
One Valley high school is working hard to keep students' spirits high this semester.
Some Merced County school districts making changes to students’ meal distribution schedule
Merced Sun-Star
Merced City School District, for example, will be handing out free meals three days per week, as opposed to every weekday.
Coronavirus stopped school, not learning for special ed students in Stanislaus County
Modesto Bee
Coronavirus pandemic closed schools, districts were jetted into distance learning. Teachers are tackling challenges for special ed students.
Can A School District Implement Online Learning Without The Blessing Of Its Teachers Union?
Capital Public Radio
While many districts in California have worked with teachers unions to plan for online learning, the Yuba City Teachers Association says its district is breaking the law. Yuba City Unified says it has the right to respond to stay-at-home orders.
See also:
● School district responses to the COVID-19 pandemic: Round 1, districts’ initial responses AEI
Higher Ed:
The class of 2020 is graduating into a recession. Congress might defer student loans
Fresno Bee
Many college graduates in 2020 will likely face bleak job prospects as the coronavirus pandemic drives the economy in recession.
Students spend time with family, pick up hobbies during unconventional spring break
Bakersfield Californian
Beaches, hiking trails and parks — typical spots for students and their families during spring break — are closed throughout the state, and with a stay-at-home order in place from Gov. Gavin Newsom, people have little choice but to get cozy on their couches and entertain themselves at home.
Pacific to fund grants to help students hit by pandemic
Stockton Record
University of the Pacific will fund grants to help ease financial burdens undergraduate and graduate students and their families may be facing due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Don’t cancel summer internships, California STEM education advocates caution
EdSource
As schools and businesses across California and in other regions of the country remain closed to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, some companies are also cancelling summer STEM internships and student research positions.
ENVIRONMENT/ENERGY
Environment:
Once-shunned plastic bags are making a comeback as grocery stores ban reusable totes
Fresno Bee
Reusable grocery bags — often lauded as good for the environment — are being temporarily banned by a growing number of communities over safety concerns during the coronavirus pandemic.
Exposure to air pollution linked to higher coronavirus death rates
Los Angeles Times
Americans in communities with higher smog levels are at greater risk of dying from COVID-19, according to a new study that suggests the health damage from the novel coronavirus has been worsened by long-term exposure to air pollution.
The silver lining to coronavirus lockdowns: Air quality is improving
Washington Post
This offers a rare — and unintended — large-scale experiment for scientists to see how human emissions contribute to hazardous air quality and analyze the effectiveness of particular policy ideas.
Some Fishing Added To The List Of Unessential Activities During Stay-At-Home
Capital Public Radio
In an effort to halt the spread of the coronavirus, local governments in California are taking steps to restrict or halt fishing, including requests to the state to postpone some fishing seasons.
Top science panel: Coronavirus unlikely to significantly subside with warmer weather
The Hill
Warmer weather is unlikely to significantly impede the spread of the novel coronavirus, a National Academies of Sciences (NAS) panel told the White House on Tuesday.
HEALTH/HUMAN SERVICES
Health:
10 new coronavirus cases reported in Fresno County, where infection rate is around 5%
Fresno Bee
Fresno County health officials reported 10 new confirmed cases of coronavirus on Wednesday, bringing the county’s total up to 156.
See also:
● Coronavirus Update: Fresno County Reports Third Death Clovis Roundup
● Merced County reports two new coronavirus-related deaths, confirmed infections rise to 40Fresno Bee
● Kern's coronavirus cases surpass 300 Bakersfield Californian
More covid-related deaths come out of Tulare County because of nursing home outbreak
Fresno Bee
Two more coronavirus-related deaths have occurred in Tulare County, both connected to last week’s outbreak at a nursing facility in Visalia.
See also:
● Tulare County confirms seventh coronavirus-related death. It’s the second death this weekFresno Bee
● 2 Redwood Springs residents dead as outbreak worsens Visalia Times Delta
● 7th COVID-19 death confirmed, cases rise to 168 Visalia Times Delta
● Coronavirus Was Slow to Spread to Rural America. Not Anymore. New York Times
● Rural California hoped to be shielded from coronavirus. Now, an outbreak in Tulare CountyLos Angeles Times
Coronavirus: COVID-19 death toll surpasses 500 in California, 19,000-plus confirmed cases
Mercury News
More than 4,000 of the confirmed cases and 116 of the COVID-19-related deaths have been reported by the 10 Bay Area counties, where a combined 8 million of California’s 39.7 million residents reside.
Health care workers make up about 10% of California’s positive coronavirus tests
Fresno Bee
The California Department of Public Health reported Wednesday that 1,651 confirmed cases of COVID-19 have been among health care workers, a figure that is just under 10 percent of the state’s confirmed coronavirus cases.
See also:
New Stanford app connects first responders to COVID-19 testing UPI
Calif releases data on race of 37% of coronavirus patients, working to get more
Fresno Bee
Gov. Gavin Newsom said data is slowly trickling in from across California on the racial breakdown of people who have tested positive for the virus that causes COVID-19, but that doesn’t include much information from Sacramento County where public health officials met Wednesday to determine how they can get that information.
See also:
● CDC Hospital Data Point To Racial Disparity In COVID-19 Cases Capital Public Radio
● Who’s getting sick in California? State releases partial race-based data San Francisco Chronicle
● Coronavirus death rate among Latinos appears low, but experts say the data are thin Los Angeles Times
● California doesn't find ethnic gap in early coronavirus review, Newsom says Politico
● California releases limited racial breakdown of coronavirus patients and deaths Los Angeles Times
● CDC Hospital Data Point To Racial Disparity In COVID-19 Cases VPR
● EDITORIAL: COVID-19 is disproportionately killing minorities. That’s not a coincidence Los Angeles Times
Hundreds of young Americans have now been killed by the coronavirus, data shows
Washington Post
More than 700 Americans under the age of 50 have died from the coronavirus, a Washington Post analysis has found. That includes at least nine cases under the age of 20 and at least 45 under the age of 30.
See also:
● Commentary: Why teenagers may be the downfall of preventing the spread of the coronavirus CalMatters
Locally Developed Coronavirus Vaccine Injected Into First Human Volunteer
KPBS
A local lab on Monday dosed its first human subject with its coronavirus vaccine. Inovio Pharmaceuticals, a Pennsylvania company with a lab in Sorrento Valley, is testing the safety of its product in up to 40 healthy adults. Interim results are expected by summer.
What is herd immunity and could it help slow the coronavirus pandemic?
Fresno Bee
As the coronavirus pandemic continues to spread and the U.S. implements social distancing measures, some world leaders have mentioned herd immunity as a way to slow the virus.
Staphley: Please, wear a mask. It won’t kill you and it might save a life — maybe even your own
Modesto Bee
Face coverings slow the spread of the virus in public, where it’s hard to keep proper distancing. Plus, they make it harder for you to inadvertently touch your face while in public, where you’re picking up invisible nasties without knowing it.
See also:
● This is how coughing can spread coronavirus in a grocery store, according to researchers CBS
● Empty grocery aisle? Watch what happens when someone coughs in the next aisle over Miami Herald
● Cleaning and reusing hospital masks: Is it safe? CalMatters
● What Are the Benefits of Wearing a Face Mask? Wall Street Journal
● Coronavirus: Should you wear a face mask? Can you donate hand-sewn masks? Can I make my own mask? San Francisco Chronicle
● From Puppy Pads To Medical Masks: How A ‘Shark Tank’ Entrepreneur Is Helping Fresno Hospitals VPR
Smoking Helps Open Gateway to Coronavirus Infection, Study Shows
Bloomberg
Smokers and people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease may have elevated levels of an enzyme called ACE-2, which helps the virus enter cells in their lungs, where it replicates, a study published in the European Respiratory Journal Thursday showed.
Human Services:
Federal stocks of protective equipment nearly depleted
Fresno Bee
The Strategic National Stockpile is nearly out of the N95 respirators, surgical masks, face, shields, gowns and other medical supplies desperately needed to protect front-line medical workers treating coronavirus patients.
See also:
● Some Critical Medical Supplies Now Need Feds' Approval To Be Exported Capital Public Radio
● Feds’ stockpile for coronavirus response is exhausted, amid questions about how supplies were distributed Los Angeles Times
● The national stockpile is out of supplies to give to the states Roll Call
● Federal stockpile of emergency medical equipment depleted, House panel says The Hill
● HHS: Federal stocks of protective equipment nearly depleted AP News
● The Feds Fell Short on PPE, So Everyday Americans Stepped Up Pew Trusts
● Some Critical Medical Supplies Now Need Feds' Approval To Be Exported VPR
Fresno blood bank gears up for COVID-19 treatment
Business Journal
The Central California Blood Center in Fresno is joining the fight to find a cure for COVID-19, and is going the extra mile for patient safety.
246 beds for COVID-19 patients coming soon
Visalia Times Delta
It's official. Construction is underway to convert the Porterville Developmental Center into a temporary COVID-19 surge hospital, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers confirmed Wednesday.
See also:
● Construction beginning on COVID units at PDC Porterville Recorder
Adventist Health Tulare launches COVID-19 online tool
Visalia Times Delta
A new tool from Adventist Health Tulare might help put some of those COVID-19 worries to bed by virtually screening users for symptoms and offering information through an artificial intelligence chat feature.
Clinica Sierra Vista receives $3.3 million from U.S. Department of Health and Human Services
Bakersfield Californian
Over $3 million was directed to Clinica Sierra Vista on Wednesday after the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services awarded $5.8 million to Kern County health clinics, according to a news release from Clinica.
Coronavirus update: Stanislaus ICU use drops. Fitness centers adapt to times
Modesto Bee
Modesto has 39 of the positive cases, 17 are in unincorporated areas, nine are in Ceres, eight are in Patterson, five are in Waterford, four are in Turlock and three are in Riverbank.
See also:
● When will the COVID-19 patient surge hit Stanislaus hospitals? County looks for a model Modesto Bee
Online Medical Care during COVID-19
Public Policy Institute of California
The California Department of Managed Health Care has required that all health plans allow people to obtain health care via telehealth and reimburse telehealth consultations at the same rate as in-person visits, without increasing patient costs.
See also:
● Tune in Thursday: Taking care of your mental health during the pandemic CalMatters
Valley hospitals roll out drive-up testing for COVID-19
Business Journal
In an effort to expedite testing for COVID-19, hospitals in the Central Valley are making it so those potentially infected won’t even have to leave the car.
Stockton installs hygiene stations to help protect homeless amid outbreak
Stockton Record
Stockton has installed hygiene stations throughout the city to help the homeless during the ongoing public health crisis caused by the novel coronavirus, or COVID-19.
IMMIGRATION
Trump quietly shuts down asylum at US borders to fight virus
Fresno Bee
The U.S. gov’t used an obscure public health law to justify one of its most aggressive border crackdowns ever. People fleeing violence and poverty to seek refuge in the U.S. are whisked to the nearest border crossing and returned to Mexico without a chance to apply for asylum.
See also:
· ICE to review cases for release nationwide as the coronavirus spreads at detention centerLos Angeles Times
· Coronavirus: Attorneys, advocates file emergency motion to halt in-person immigration hearings San Francisco Chronicle
· Immigrant groups urge Trump to automatically renew DACA work permits amid coronavirusFresno Bee
· Customs and Border Protection union calls for more protection against COVID-19 San Diego Union-Tribune
California Budget & Policy Center
Millions of Californians are excluded from the COVID-19 federal relief package, including not receiving recovery rebates that can help pay for groceries and rent as people are losing jobs and income due to their workplaces closing down.
LAND USE/HOUSING
Land Use:
City of Clovis Orders Closure of Playground, Exercise Equipment at Parks
Clovis Roundup
The City of Clovis issued an order April 7 to close picnic areas, play structures and exercise equipment in city parks. The order mandates that covered picnic areas with more than one table under a sheltered area are now closed. Play structures and exercise equipment are also off limits.
Opinion: A Bold Vision for Infrastructure
National Affairs
Rather than building more of what it already has, therefore, America should direct its new investments toward visionary projects on the scale of the transcontinental railroad, the interstate-highway system, and the internet, all of which have helped the nation achieve its status as world leader.
Housing:
Mariposa County restricts short-term lodging to keep COVID-19 out of community
abc30
Mariposa is now the only county in Central California with no confirmed cases of COVID-19 and one of only five counties in California.
Virus casts a dark cloud over once-thriving home market
Bakersfield Californian
Shutdown orders have halted open houses and complicated property viewings. Sellers are delaying listings or yanking their properties off the market. Prospective buyers are dropping out, some of them after losing jobs.
31% Can’t Pay the Rent: ‘It’s Only Going to Get Worse’
New York Times
As the economic shutdown pares tenants’ incomes, April payments have been reduced, deferred or withheld. Some landlords see their property at risk.
See also:
● Nearly a Third of U.S. Apartment Renters Didn’t Pay April Rent Wall Street Journal
● Nearly A Third Of Renters Didn't Pay By 1st Week Of April VPR
EDITORIAL: What every homeless person needs in this pandemic: a room of their own
Los Angeles Times
During the current COVID-19 pandemic, you can’t follow the order to stay at home if you have no home.
PUBLIC FINANCES
California Property Tax Deadline Implications
Capital Public Radio
California property tax payments are due April 10, and Gov. Newsom has no plans to delay the deadline. We check in with a few counties in the region.
See also:
● On top of everything else, now property taxes are due. Here’s how to get help Los Angeles Times
Extra pay for essential workers? Calif state unions press for coronavirus incentives
Modesto Bee
U.S. Senate Democrats announced a proposal Tuesday that has been circulating at the state level in California for a couple of weeks: extra pay for workers who risk exposure to coronavirus.
IRS Budget Cuts, Staffing Challenges Create Coronavirus Payment Headaches
VPR
The Internal Revenue Service is under huge pressure to quickly disburse the $1,200 payments promised to most people in the $2.2 trillion coronavirus relief bill. Experts say it could take months for everyone to get their checks — with some people possibly waiting until after they file their taxes next year.
TRANSPORTATION
Modesto delays decision on dial-a-ride after Storer, current provider, raises concerns
Modesto Bee
Modesto has postponed awarding a new contract for dial a ride services after Modesto-based Storer Transportation — the current longtime service provider — raised concerns about the process.
Parking limit changed in downtown lot
Hanford Sentinel
The Hanford City Council met via video teleconference Tuesday evening to discuss parking limits in the downtown area.
Governments, transit agencies, railroads respond to COVID-19 impact
Progressive Railroading
Governments, transit-rail agencies and railroads have been spending the past several weeks responding to the coronavirus pandemic.
High-Speed Rail Construction Continues During The Pandemic But 'It's Not Business As Usual'
VPR
Constructing the high-speed rail can’t be done from home, so to protect employees from COVID-19, workers are operating differently.
Air travel hits a record low not seen since the early 1960s and 9/11, experts say
Fresno Bee
As the U.S. fights the coronavirus pandemic, few people are flying. Tuesday, fewer than 100,000 people flew, setting a record low, according to TSA data.
Belgian-Dutch Study: Why in times of COVID-19 you can not walk/run/bike close to each other.
Medium
What is a safe distance when running, biking and walking during COVID-19 times? It is further than the typical 1–2 meter as prescribed in different countries!
WATER
Add rainy early April to wet March
Bakersfield Californian
The storm that has been hanging over the southern valley and Kern County mountains for days has dropped nearly 2 inches of rain in Bakersfield, more than one-third of the city's normal precipitation for an entire year.
Fight over water: McCarthy letter criticizes state decision
Porterville Recorder
The fight of the state’s water continues with the California Department of Fish and Wildlife’s decision last week to protect fish under the California Endangered Species Act.
“Xtra”
Visalia Mexican restaurants deliver burritos to hundreds of farmworkers
abc30
Chapala Grill and Azul Mexican Grill delivered hundreds of burritos, chips, oranges, and passion fruit drinks to fieldworkers at two locations this morning, a packing house in Dinuba, and a cattle company in Hanford.
How Can We Make Farm Work Healthier? (Streaming Online)
Zócalo Public Square
On Tuesday, April 14th, organic farmer and artist Nikiko Masumoto, Huron Mayor Rey León, health researcher Chia Thao, and Tania Pacheco-Werner, co-assistant director of the Central Valley Health Policy Institute, visit Zócalo to consider how to make farm work healthier.
Central CA churches holding Easter services online
abc30
This Easter Sunday, churches in the Central Valley will use online tools to bring together their communities amid the COVID-19 crisis.
Closed museums pump up online content to aid coronavirus shut-ins
Sacramento Bee
Audiences missing the arts during coronavirus-related museum closures can still engage with local museum content online thanks to efforts by teams at the Crocker Art Museum, the Manetti Shrem Museum of Art and the Mondavi Center.