A Backward Step

Surge in cases spurs further measures as high schools to go virtual and restaurants go back to take out, delivery only.  

Citing the surge in cases and deaths Governor Whitmer announced the new emergency order put into place by MDHHS while encouraging the federal government to take action and pass a stimulus package.

The  emergency order is a 3 week mandate that will begin Wednesday at midnight and is aimed at limiting residential and non-residential gatherings where COVID-19 spreads rapidly. 

Bars and restaurants will be open for outdoor dining, carry-out and delivery only.
Colleges and high schools may proceed with remote learning, but must end in-person classes.
Gyms will remain open for individual exercise with strict safety measures , including mandatory masking in place. 
Casinos, movie theaters and group exercise classes will be closed. 
Professional and college sports meeting extraordinary standards for risk mitigation may continue without spectators, however all other organized sports must stop.

Today’s order, which takes effect Wednesday, Nov. 18, is not a blanket stay-home action like in the spring. The order leaves open work that cannot be performed from home, including for manufacturing, construction and health occupations. Outdoor gatherings, outdoor dining and parks remain open. Individualized activities with distancing and face masks are still allowed: retail shopping; public transit; restaurant takeout; personal-care services such as haircuts, by appointment; and individualized exercise at a gym, with extra spacing between machines. 

This action will save lives,” said the Governor. “If we don’t take aggressive action now we could see 1000 deaths a week.