 DNR encourages responsible recreation as it monitors COVID-19 risks at state parks and recreation areas
LANSING, MICH. To help slow the spread of the coronavirus the Department of Natural Resources is closely monitoring visitor levels and adherence to social-distancing measures at Michigan state parks and recreation areas and other DNR-managed locations. Due to a surge in visitors at state parks over the last two weeks – including at Tippy Dam Recreation Area in Manistee County – DNR staff has observed many instances of improper social distancing (not keeping at least 6 feet between individuals) and visitors traveling long distances to visit these outdoor spaces. Tippy Dam has seen a drastic increase in visitors, including people from all areas of the state. This type of nonessential travel could unintentionally increase the spread of COVID-19. To protect visitors, staff and nearby communities, the DNR has closed Tippy Dam Recreation Area, effective immediately, until further notice. The south side access, which is on land managed by Consumers Energy, also will be closed until further notice. The closure is a result of a Land Use Order of the Director Amendment No. 4 of 2020, signed today by DNR Director Dan Eichinger. Anyone entering Tippy Dam Recreation Area by vehicle, foot or bicycle may receive a civil infraction with fines up to $500. For now, all other state parks and recreation areas, trails and boating access sites remain open to help provide local opportunities to get outdoors; however, social distancing practices must be adhered to in order to keep these state-managed lands open. "The concern is twofold: residents traveling long distances and unintentionally spreading COVID-19 and visitors congregating too closely," said Ron Olson, chief of the DNR Parks and Recreation Division. "In order to continue to keep state parks open, we urge everyone to follow effective social distancing practices, including only visiting state parks locally and avoiding high-traffic areas within parks." Know before you go Anyone planning to visit any state-managed land is first encouraged to visit the DNR COVID-19 response page for updates on facility closures, changes in services and event/meeting cancellations. Follow Michigan.gov/DNRClosures for the latest information. Please keep the following guidelines in mind:
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 On March 30, 2020 at approximately 9:37 am, Deputies from the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to S Bingham Ave near W 80th St, Garfield Township on a report of a head on crash.
Upon arrival on scene Deputies found that a passenger car was heading southbound on S Bingham Ave, crossed over the centerline and struck a garbage truck heading northbound. The driver of the passenger car was identified as a 30 year old male from Howard City. He was pronounced dead at the scene. The driver of the garbage truck was identified as a 45 year old male from Muskegon. He and his 63 year old passenger was uninjured. The accident remains under investigation by the Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office. Deputies were assisted at the scene by the Michigan State Police, Newaygo Fire Department and Life EMS.  Benefits increased for all unemployed workers, expanded to self-employed and low-wage workers. The new filing schedule is included at end of this article.
LANSING, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer today announced new programs for workers affected by COVID-19. The governor, under the federal CARES Act, signed an agreement between Michigan and the U.S. Dept. of Labor to implement Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and Compensation programs that grant benefits to workers who do not already qualify for state unemployment benefits. Workers include self-employed, 1099-independent contractors, gig, and low-wage workers who can no longer work because of the pandemic. The agreement also increases weekly benefits for all unemployed workers by $600 a week for up to four months and extends benefit payments from 26 to 39 weeks. “The State of Michigan is dedicated to implementing measures to protect the health of all our residents and we understand financial health is critical as we meet this challenge together,” said Whitmer. “This increase and expansion of unemployment benefits will provide a measure of security for Michigan working families who lost their income due to the pandemic. We are committed to ensuring emergency financial relief for unemployed residents who continue to stay home and stay safe.” The Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) will provide additional guidance regarding eligibility and application details in the coming days as it implements these new programs. Benefits Extended to Self-Employed, Low-Wage, and Other Workers Affected by COVID-19 Under the CARES Act, individuals who are not already eligible for Michigan’s unemployment programs will now be provided a set amount of $600 a week for up to four months on top of the state benefit. Benefits are available for up to 39 weeks. These newly eligible individuals include self-employed workers, independent contractors, low-wage workers and those with a limited work history. Benefits Increased for All Unemployed Workers Under the CARES Act, weekly benefits for all unemployed workers will be increased by a set amount of $600 a week for up to four months. This applies to workers already in the unemployment system and eligible employees about to apply. These workers do not need to reapply and those about to apply do not need to take additional steps and should file as usual. If a worker’s application has previously been denied by the UIA in the past three weeks there is no need for them to reapply at this time. They will be notified by the agency with any additional action that may need to be taken. “We appreciate the patience Michigan residents have shown with the unemployment system over the last few weeks as we continue to provide emergency financial assistance during this historical demand. I want to assure every eligible worker in our state who needs to apply for unemployment benefits that they will receive them,” said Dept. of Labor and Economic Opportunity Director Jeff Donofrio. “We continue to urge workers to apply online at Michigan.gov/UIA and to utilize our new filing schedule based on their last name. UIA staff is working as hard and fast as they can to process claims and we continue to reallocate resources and upgrade technology to serve our customers.” The day or time of day in which a claim is filed will not impact whether a worker receives benefits or their benefit amount. Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date in which a claimant was laid-off or let go from their job due to COVID-19. The eligibility window to apply has also been increased from 14 to 28 days from the date of their work stoppage. New Filing Schedule: Online Filing Schedule - Michigan.gov/UIA. Workers are encouraged to go online during off-peak times between 8PM-8AM
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.  Declaration Includes Support for Crisis Counseling, Emergency Protective Measures
LANSING, Mich. -- Last night, March 27, President Trump approved Governor Whitmer’s request for a Major Disaster declaration in Michigan. The declaration means that Michigan is now eligible for participation in the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) programming to provide relief for Michiganders impacted by the COVID-19 virus and measures to slow the spread of the virus. While Michigan made a broad request for aid in every Individual Assistance and Public Assistance program from the Individual Assistance category, funding was approved for the Crisis Counseling Program and funding for Emergency Protective Measures from the Public Assistance Category was also approved. “This is a good start, and it will help us protect Michiganders and slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Governor Whitmer. “I’m hopeful that the president will review my request for individual assistance programs that would provide meals to families who need them and rental assistance and temporary housing for families. I look forward to the federal government’s continued partnership as we work to fight this virus.” The Crisis Counseling Program is a direct-support program to provide services for those whose mental health has been impacted by the spread of COVID-19. The federal government also granted the governor’s request for emergency protective measures, including funding for transporting and pre-positioning equipment, Emergency Operation Center (EOC)-related costs, medical supplies and personal protective equipment, medical care and transport, and childcare. The governor’s request for Hazard Mitigation assistance to help provide relief during planning for recovery in the long-term is currently under review. While the relief package approved by congress on Friday will provide relief in some of the requested areas of individual assistance, including Unemployment Insurance Assistance and Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programming (D-SNAP) under the Stafford Act, FEMA can also provide aid in these areas where they do not overlap with existing programs. Michigan requested assistance for both Disaster Unemployment Assistance and D-SNAP that have not yet been approved. On Thursday, Governor Gretchen Whitmer sent a letter to the president requesting a major disaster declaration. The programs the governor requested to assist Michiganders during this time include, but are not limited to, the following categories of individual assistance: Disaster Unemployment Assistance, Disaster Crisis Counseling, Disaster Case Management, Individuals and Households Program, Disaster Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, Disaster Survivor Assistance, Disaster Legal Services, and Voluntary Agency Coordination. If approved, these programs would provide direct assistance to Michiganders through state, tribal, and local partnerships with FEMA other agencies. Disasters hit the most vulnerable first, and the programs were requested to provide relief to the homeless, those looking for legal assistance, the loved ones of individuals lost to COVID-19, those without access to water, and more The governor also requested critical public assistance programs like Debris Removal, Emergency Protective Measures, Roads and Bridges, Water Control Facilities, Buildings and Equipment, Utilities, and Parks, Recreation, and Other Facilities. The strain on Michigan’s infrastructure during the duration of the COVID-19 pandemic has been great, and assistance is required to continue providing a safe and healthy Michigan for all. Michigan Receives 112,800 N95 Masks from Strategic National Stockpile Also today, Gov. Whitmer announced on Twitter that the State of Michigan received a shipment of 112,800 N95 masks from the strategic national stockpile this morning, with an additional shipment of 8,000 masks on the way. “This is great news for our front line health care workers,” said Gov. Whitmer. “We’ll keep working hard along with FEMA and the White House to get more of the personal protective equipment we need to keep Michiganders safe.”  Making it easier for Michiganders to apply for benefits
LANSING- To help Michiganders receive unemployment benefits as a result of COVID-19, the Michigan Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) has developed a schedule for workers to file for benefits based on the first letter of their last name. The agency continues to see a historical increase in working families seeking emergency financial relief and this new schedule will improve functionally, accessibility and help alleviate bottlenecks in both the online system - Michigan.gov/UIA - and over the phone at 866-500-0017. The day or time of day in which a claim is filed will not impact whether a worker receives benefits or their benefit amount. Additionally, claims will be back-dated to reflect the date in which a claimant was laid-off or let go from their job due to COVID-19. The eligibility window to apply has also been increased from 14 to 28 days from the date of their work stoppage. “We ask Michiganders to remain patient when filing for unemployment and to please follow this schedule to make it easier for everyone to access the emergency relief they need,” said UIA Director Steve Gray. “We’re recommending that workers go first to our 24-hr online system at Michigan.gov/UIA. We urge workers to only use our phone system if they do not have access to a computer or the internet.” Michiganders are asked to use the tools and resources available on the homepage of the website to help answer any outstanding questions they may have. Due to the unprecedented demand for unemployment benefits, those using the phone option may sometimes receive a busy signal and those using the website should expect longer load times. Users are asked to be patient and not click more than once to reload a page. Filing online remains the fastest way for Michiganders to apply for unemployment benefits. Beginning Sunday, March 29, 2020: Online Filing Schedule - Michigan.gov/UIA
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.  Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial is opening a triage tent outside its Emergency Department. The tent is scheduled to be open to the public starting on Monday, March 30. Special Tent Outside Emergency Department to Triage Incoming Patients for COVID-19 Symptoms FREMONT, Mich., March 26, 2020—Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial is taking additional steps to care for the community and keep patients and team members safe by opening a COVID-19 triage tent as an extension of its emergency department. The tent is scheduled to open to the public on Monday. In accordance with the CDC, Spectrum Health recommends those with mild COVID-19 symptoms stay home and self-quarantine. When the tent is in use, patients coming to the emergency department will be met by a team member who will help them navigate to either the main ED entrance, through the COVID-19 tent entrance. Patients entering the COVID-19 tent will be asked to wear a mask and sanitize hands, which will provide the safest means for staff to offer service while avoiding unnecessary exposure. “Gerber Memorial’s triage tent can help protect patients, by ensuring people with non-COVID-19 conditions can still access our emergency services while keeping them separate from people with symptoms consistent with COVID-19 and who will still need care,” said Gerber Memorial Interim Market Leader and Chief Operating Officer Shelly Johnson. “Our triage tent is part of our effort at Gerber Memorial to get ready during this pandemic and we are prepared to meet our community’s needs.” Patients will be evaluated by an emergency department provider. Those with mild symptoms, no breathing difficulties and stable vital signs will be directed home and provided education on COVID-19 care. People with mild symptoms should stay home and self-quarantine, watching for worsening symptoms. If you are concerned about your symptoms, call for a free phone screening at 616.391.2380. People coming to the emergency department triage tent will be charged for the visit. Most insurers have indicated they will waive the charges for screening so future reimbursement is expected. For more information about COVID-19, including information on symptoms and prevention, visit www.spectrumhealth.org/covid19.  Providers available via virtual visits so patients can stay in their homes
GRAND RAPIDS, March 26, 2020—Spectrum Health is closing all walk-in clinics in West Michigan and encouraging people to connect virtually with a provider. The clinics will be temporarily closing effective immediately until further notice. Spectrum Health offers alternatives for accessing health care for non-life-threatening emergencies. People experiencing emergencies should call 911 immediately. To limit unnecessary exposure to COVID-19, Spectrum Health has enabled our primary care and most of our specialty care medical teams to see patients through a virtual visit. For needs requiring a face-to-face visit, there are locations available and open to patients, including urgent care sites and labs. Care options are available to all patients. To learn more about current options, including examples of where to seek treatment based on specific conditions and how to schedule an appointment, visit www.spectrumhealth.org/patientaccess. For more information and to stay current on Spectrum Health COVID-19, please visit https://www.spectrumhealth.org/covid19 COVID-19 SCREENING: Spectrum Health’s phone and virtual screening options can help those who have symptoms and may be concerned they have the virus. The purpose is to prevent the spread of illness by enabling people to seek the information they need from their homes, while making it easy and convenient for them. Spectrum Health advises people to take the following steps from their home. (A screening is not a test.)
 Death occurred in Mecosta County
March 26, 2020 – District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) received notification of the first local death attributed to COVID-19. The individual from Mecosta County was an 82-year-old male who was admitted to Spectrum Health in Big Rapids on March 25. “We wish to express our heartfelt sympathies to the family who lost their loved one,” said Kevin Hughes, DHD#10 Health Officer. “COVID-19 continues to pose a serious threat to our community members and we must all continue to follow all executive orders to help bring this deadly virus to a halt.” DHD#10 reminds everyone that it is critical that we protect each other, support each other, and work together to slow the spread of this disease. Strong community mitigation and prevention measures are already in place, and we urge residents to continue to follow recommendations:
Please rely on official sources for information. DHD#10 continues to provide the latest information at www.  Stimulus payments to come within 3 weeks says Treasury Secretary Mnuchin
The Senate has unanimously passed a stimulus bill. While there are many provisions including expanded unemployment guidelines and monies heading for larger entities, part of the package involves payments to individuals and families. The measure is expected to pass the House and be on the President's desk for signing soon thereafter. Here’s a bit of the skinny on what might be coming your way. As details emerge we will share more. Individuals will receive $1200 per adult. $500 per child 16 and under unless their adjusted gross income is over $75,000 single or $150,000 married.Then the payment is reduced until single $99,000 and married $198,000. Anything over that amount will not receive a payment. These will be based on your 2018 return unless you have filed a 2019 return already. There is no need to apply as the payment will be deposited automatically in your account if the IRS has that info. If not checks will be sent out. The payments are likely to arrive in less than 3 weeks according to plan. If you are receiving Social Security or SSI you would still get a payment. Same with Veterans receiving payments and unemployment eligible people. Stay tuned. We will attempt to keep you updated as we receive the info. LANSING-- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-24, clarifying how the expansion of eligibility for unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 will work. The order:
“These are challenging times that all Michiganders are facing, and no one should be worried about how to make ends meet if they cannot work because of self-isolation or self-quarantine in response to contracting the coronavirus,” said Governor Whitmer. “I will continue to take action that protects public health, while also ensuring that working families have the support they need during these hard times.” Executive Order 2020-24 takes the place of Executive Order 2020-10.  UIA Provides Tips to Get Help as Soon as Possible
LANSING- The State of Michigan’s Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) today provided updated information for workers affected by COVID-19. Workers are encouraged to apply online at Michigan.gov/UIA or over the phone at 866-500-0017, but due to the tremendous call volume, certain callers may receive a busy signal. “The UIA is working hard and fast to handle the influx of applications for unemployment benefits as we deal with the COVID-19 crisis. While an unprecedented number of calls and clicks has challenged the system, particularly during peak hours, we want to assure Michiganders that the system is providing emergency financial relief,” said UIA Director Steve Gray. "Our website may be operating a little slower, and phone queues are full resulting in busy signals for some callers, so the UIA is urging patience and recommending that workers go first to the online system at Michigan.gov/UIA.” In addition, applying online in off-peak hours will expedite the process. The 24-hour website operates faster when there are fewer people on the site at any given time. The UIA also urges Michiganders using the website to expect longer load times. It may take several minutes for a page to load at this time. Users are asked to be patient and not click more than once to reload a page. Filing online remains the fastest way for Michiganders to apply for unemployment benefits. Off-peak hours: 8 p.m. to 8 a.m. Applicants with questions can also access information on the website Michigan.gov/UIA, including frequently asked questions about the process and current challenges due to COVID-19. Checking the website for answers may help alleviate pressure on the phone line. A downloadable handout on the filing process can be found here “Though it is best to file your claim as efficiently as possible, and we understand residents are eager to receive their checks quickly, the UIA wants to remind Michiganders that the eligibility window to apply has been increased from 14 to 28 days from the date of their work stoppage,” added Gray. “The UIA is shifting as many resources as possible to handle the increase in applications and is exploring further solutions to help Michiganders get the assistance they need as soon as possible. We appreciate your patience during this unprecedented time.” Gov. Whitmer signed Executive Order 2020-10 on March 16, 2020 to expand unemployment benefits to eligible workers:
 March 24, 2020 – District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) reports the second confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in Newaygo County. The individual is not a resident of Newaygo County or of Michigan but is currently residing and recuperating in Newaygo County. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) has designated this as an “out of state” case in Michigan. DHD#10 is investigating the case further to determine any other potential exposures to the individual. “As COVID-19 spreads throughout our region, there is the possibility that individuals may have been exposed to the virus in public places,” said Kevin Hughes, DHD#10 Health Officer. “We urge our communities to work together, take all public health executive orders seriously, and stay home to stay safe and save lives.” To prevent the spread of COVID-19, people should wash their hands, stay home, avoid close contact with sick people, cover your coughs and sneezes with a tissue, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces. COVID-19 symptoms may appear in as few as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. The Health Department and all local officials are relying on our community to work together to slow the potential spread of illness and refer to official sources of reliable information. For local updates, visit www.dhd#10.org. Trusted information can also be found at www.michigan.gov/coronavirus and www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/. Going forward, DHD#10 will only be notifying the media of the first two cases in each of the ten counties in our jurisdiction. We will post all additional cases on our website at www.dhd10.org. This marks the second COVID-19 case in Newaygo County, so all additional cases in Newaygo County will be posted on our website.  Drop-off locations opening tomorrow at noon for community donations Grand Rapids, Mich., March 23, 2020 – Responding to the outpouring of community inquiries and offers of support, Spectrum Health is opening 14 drop-off donation sites for medical supplies beginning at noon on Tuesday, March 24. The locations and hours of operation are listed below. While Spectrum Health continues to maintain a supply of masks and other personal protection equipment for its patients and health care providers, we are working to stretch our supply and turning to the community because we anticipate the need will continue to grow. The following items will be accepted at the donation sites:
Traveling to drop-off sites to donate medical supplies does not violate Michigan’s statewide stay-at-home order, which allows for an exception to the order for providing necessities to “individuals who need assistance as a result of this emergency”. To reduce the risk of exposure for all, we ask donors to place donations in the bins provided at each location while maintaining a distance of at least six feet from others. More information is available here. Spectrum Health is not currently accepting donations of 3D printed items, other medical equipment, medications or blankets. If you have a large donation requiring special arrangements or a question about a donation, please email our supply chain team at covid19supplies@spectrumhealth.org. Anyone who would like to make a monetary donation to support our COVID-19 response effort may do so here. Please note, we will not be accepting donations until noon on March 24th. We will be collecting items during the dates and times outlined below after that point.  *Health Pointe is a joint venture of Spectrum Health and Holland Hospital.
 March 23, 2020 – District Health Department #10 reports the first confirmed positive case of COVID-19 in a Newaygo County resident. DHD#10 is working quickly to investigate this case and to determine if there were any exposures to this individual. “We ask that individuals strictly practice social distancing at this time,” said DHD#10 Health Officer Kevin Hughes. “As cases are increasing, it is important to understand that individuals may display symptoms differently and not all who are sick with COVID-19 will be sick right away.” COVID-19 symptoms may appear in as little as two days or as long as 14 days after exposure to the virus. Symptoms include fever, cough and shortness of breath. To prevent the spread of COVID-19, people should wash their hands, stay home when sick, avoid close contact with sick people, and disinfect commonly touched surfaces. Individuals who have been tested and are waiting on results should stay at home until they receive their results. If you are experiencing these symptoms and suspect you may have COVID-19 or were exposed to someone with the virus, please contact your medical provider for further assistance.  Governor Whitmer Signs “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order
LANSING, Mich. -- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer signed the “Stay Home, Stay Safe” Executive Order (EO 2020-21), directing all Michigan businesses and operations to temporarily suspend in-person operations that are not necessary to sustain or protect life. The order also directs Michiganders to stay in their homes unless they’re a part of that critical infrastructure workforce, engaged in an outdoor activity, or performing tasks necessary to the health and safety of themselves or their family, like going to the hospital or grocery store. Effective at 12:01 am on March 24, 2020, for at least the next three weeks, individuals may only leave their home or place of residence under very limited circumstances, and they must adhere to social distancing measures recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention when they do so, including remaining at least six feet from people from outside the individual’s household to the extent feasible under the circumstances. “In just 13 days, we’ve gone from 0 to over 1,000 COVID-19 cases,” said Governor Whitmer. “This is an unprecedented crisis that requires all of us working together to protect our families and our communities. The most effective way we can slow down the virus is to stay home. I know this will be hard, but it will be temporary. If we all come together, get serious, and do our part by staying home, we can stay safe and save lives.” “Taking aggressive action to protect our communities is the most important thing we can do to mitigate further spread of COVID-19,” said Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Chief Deputy for Health and Chief Medical Executive Dr. Joneigh Khaldun. “If we do this now, we can make sure our hospitals and healthcare workers are prepared to take care of the sickest people. It is crucial that people do the right thing by staying home and staying safe.” Executive Order 2020-21 prohibits all businesses and operations from requiring workers to leave their homes, unless those workers are necessary to sustain or protect life or to conduct minimum basic operations. Businesses and operations are to designate the workers that meet those criteria, and must adopt social distancing practices and other mitigation measures to protect workers and patrons in the performance of that necessary in-person work. Workers that are necessary to sustain or protect life include those in health care and public health, law enforcement and public safety, grocery store workers, and more. For a full list of these critical infrastructure workers, click the link to Executive Order 2020-21 at the bottom of this page. Additionally, under Executive Order 2020-21, all public and private gatherings of any number of people occurring among persons outside a single household are temporarily prohibited. People may leave the house to perform for limited, necessary purposes, and may engage in outdoor activities like walking, hiking, running, cycling, or any other recreational activity, consistent with remaining at least six feet from people from outside a person’s household and with other restrictions imposed by prior executive orders. Michigan is currently in the top five states in the nation in number of confirmed COVID-19 cases. Several governors across the country have taken similar steps to protect their communities from the spread of COVID-19, including governors Mike DeWine (R-OH), Andrew Cuomo (D-NY), J.B. Pritzker (D-IL), Tom Wolf (D-PA), Gavin Newsom (D-CA), John Bel Edwards (D-LA), Phil Murphy (D-NJ), and Ned Lamont (D-CT). Workers affected by COVID-19 provided emergency relief through governor’s actions to expand unemployment benefits
Nearly 110,000 workers filed for benefits since governor’s order LANSING, - As thousands of employees across Michigan are impacted by COVID-19, Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s Executive Order signed on Monday to expand unemployment benefits continues to provide emergency relief to the state’s working families. While experiencing a tremendous increase in demand, Michigan’s unemployment system continues to serve customers. “We understand that COVID-19 has caused economic harm to our workers as sacrifices are made to protect all of our residents. Extending and expanding unemployment benefits has provided emergency relief to many Michiganders,” said Jeff Donofrio, director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. “Even though we’ve seen an unprecedented need for emergency financial assistance, Michigan’s unemployment system, and it's hard working staff, continue to provide critical help online and over the phone. Michiganders impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic should continue to visit michigan.gov/UIA or call 866-500-0017 to apply for benefits.” The latest data shows 108,710 unemployment claims were filed between last Monday and Friday, compared to a normal average of around 5,000 claims – an approximate 2,100% increase. States from around the country have experienced similar increases in unemployment claims as a result of COVID-19. Unemployment Insurance Agency (UIA) benefits are funded by a $4.6 billion trust fund which has been built up over the last 10 years. Eligible employees are strongly encouraged to apply for unemployment benefits online at Michigan.gov/UIA or by calling 866-500-0017. A factsheet on how to apply for benefits can also be found online. UIA offices will continue to serve the public, but lobbies are only open to residents with appointments. The governor’s Executive Order 2020-10 also expands unemployment benefits to:
For Self Employed Workers The State is also seeking solutions for self-employed workers and independent contractors who traditionally do not have access to unemployment insurance. The governor has requested that President Trump issue a Major Disaster Declaration so that Individual Assistance and Disaster Unemployment Assistance through FEMA may be made available to additional Michiganders affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Help for Employers Under the governor’s order, an employer or employing unit must not be charged for unemployment benefits if their employees become unemployed because of an executive order requiring them to close or limit operations. The order also expands the State’s Work Share program. Employers are encouraged to implement the program that permits employers to maintain business operations during declines in regular activity instead of laying off workers. More information about Work Share is available online at www.michigan.gov/WorkShare. Due to the uncertainty regarding potential congressional action regarding whether furloughed workers will be able to access federal resources, employers are urged to place employees on temporary leave as opposed to termination. To view the State’s guidance for employers contemplating potential layoffs, visit here. Unemployment Resources for Employers. Unemployment Resources for Employees. Additional resources for employees and employers related to COVID-19 can be found on the state’s website here. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.  LANSING, March 20- Today, Governor Gretchen Whitmer issued the following statement regarding instructional time during school closure. "Earlier today the Michigan Department of Education issued a memo regarding Instructional Time During School Closure. I know it caused a lot of confusion and panic among schools, teachers, students, and families. I wanted to provide some clarification from the perspective of the Governor’s Office. "The memo does not mean that school work done during the mandatory school closure won’t 'count' toward grades, credits, or graduation. Each district should determine what services and supports they are able to provide during this unprecedented crisis. Many are focusing on meeting basic needs and are working around the clock to provide breakfast and lunch for hungry students. Other districts have the ability to provide more learning support as a result of one-to-one technology initiatives. I am in awe of the work that school employees are doing to support their kids and I applaud their efforts. "As you know, the situation has changed rapidly over the course of the past ten days. We do not know what the future will hold, but we are absolutely committed to ensuring the needs of our students, parents, and families are met as we navigate these uncharted waters. I will be working in the coming days to ensure our seniors graduate and that no child is held back as a result of our ability to provide face-to-face instruction during the COVID-19 school closure. "To teachers, administrators, and support staff – I thank you for stepping up and helping your students and families. To students and especially parents, hang in there. We will get through this."  Community Foundation Establishes Fund to Support COVID-19 Relief Efforts
On March 19, Fremont Area Community Foundation established Community Response Funds to rapidly deploy resources to nonprofit organizations serving vulnerable populations during the COVID-19 (coronavirus) outbreak. The funds will award immediate grants to nonprofit organizations whose operations support children, older adults, and other vulnerable populations affected by COVID-19 in Lake, Mecosta, Newaygo, and Osceola counties. The Community Foundation will work closely with area nonprofit organizations to identify both immediate and long-term needs. Grants will be considered that address issues such as childcare, food insecurity, healthcare, transportation, financial assistance, general operating support, and other identified needs. “In an unprecedented time like this, we are doing everything possible to support the people of our communities and the organizations whose staff are on the front lines of response,” said Carla Roberts, president and CEO. “One way we can do this is by supporting the nonprofits that provide vital human services at a time when our region is struggling with uncertainty, job loss, food insecurity, and other challenges. These funds are designed to offer relief and allow organizations to carry out their missions as effectively as possible.” Potential grantees can apply online at https://bit.ly/FACFcovid. All those who wish to support relief efforts may donate to the Community Response Fund at facommunityfoundation.org/covid. Members of the community may designate gifts for a specific county.  Governor Whitmer Signs Executive Order Temporarily Suspending Evictions
LANSING, March 20— Governor Gretchen Whitmer today signed Executive Order 2020-19, which allows tenants and mobile home owners to remain in their homes during the COVID-19 pandemic even if they are unable to stay current on their rent. The order also relieves courts from certain statutory restrictions to enable them to stay eviction-related proceedings until after the COVID-19 emergency has passed. The executive order takes effect immediately and will remain in effect until April 17 at 11:59 p.m. “Families across the state are facing a number of uncertainties, from concerns about their health and well-being and that of their loved ones to when their next paycheck will arrive. Worrying about whether they’ll be evicted from their home, apartment or mobile home should not be on this list,” Governor Whitmer said. “This executive order will ease a burden on families struggling to make ends meet and allow them to focus on what’s most important — staying safe and healthy.” “We continue to urge all Michigan families to remain focused on putting their health first and making smart decisions to help slow the spread of COVID-19,” said Jeff Donofrio, director of the Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity. “This order, in addition to Wednesday’s order extending the tax foreclosure deadline, will give renters and homeowners some peace of mind.”  Roy Leando Snell photo courtesy of the Hennepin County Jail Roy Snell charged with decades old murder Nearly 37 years after 25-year-old Richard Atwood disappeared from White Cloud, Michigan in Newaygo County, Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel along with Newaygo County Prosecutor Worth Stay have jointly charged Roy Leando Snell with his murder. Atwood’s body has never been found. The Cold Case Team members who doggedly pursued this case were Scott Rios (NCSO, MSP retired), Adam Mercer (NCSO), Robert Watson (MSP), Ryan Maki (MSP) and Richard Miller ( MSP ret.). Snell, 55, was arrested in Minneapolis by the Minneapolis Violent Criminal Apprehension Unit. He is being charged in Newaygo County with one count of homicide – felony murder, punishable by life without parole, and one count of weapons – felony firearm, punishable by two years in prison to be served consecutively and preceding any term of imprisonment imposed. Snell is currently in custody in Hennepin County Jail in Minnesota. Atwood was last seen on Aug. 10, 1983; his brown 1975 Pontiac Trans-Am was recovered in the Grand Rapids, Michigan area two months later. Snell was reported as the last person to be seen with Atwood. “Investigating a cold homicide case is extremely difficult but investigating a decades-old case with no body means an extraordinary amount of legwork, patience and tenacity,” Nessel said. “I commend the excellent work of the Michigan State Police task force, which included Newaygo County Prosecutor Worth Stay and deputies from Newaygo County Sheriff Robert Mendham’s department. We are honored to have the opportunity to pursue justice for the family and friends of Richard Atwood.” “One can hardly imagine what the Atwood family has felt over the past decades,” said Newaygo County Prosecutor Worth Stay. “These charges are the next steps. I thank the cold case team for their hard work investigating this crime, and I thank the Attorney General for her partnership in proceeding with this case.” “Working cold cases would be an impossible task without all hands on deck,” said Michigan State Police Detective First Lt. Mike Anderson. “I’m very proud of the persistent determination shown by the Detectives and Prosecutors over the last two years. The Michigan State Police are proud to once again partner with the Newaygo County Prosecutor, Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office and the Michigan Attorney General to seek justice for the family of Richard Atwood. The arrest of Roy Snell is a very gratifying first step.” Newaygo County Sheriff Mendham concurred. “The Newaygo County Sheriff’s Office is pleased to help bring some relief to the Atwood family. The hard work and dedication of all officers and agencies involved throughout the years should be commended.” The Michigan Department of Attorney General continues to work in partnership with prosecutors and local law enforcement agencies across the state in pursuit of public safety and justice for all Michiganders. Snell was in custody in the Hennepin County Jail in Minnesota and recently waived his extradition rights. He will be brought to Michigan for arraignment and subsequent proceedings. A court date has not been scheduled yet.  Richard Atwood  Commercial and Clinical Labs also in Today’s Case Count
Confirmed cases of COVID-19 in the state increase to 336 LANSING, MICH. The count of Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases reported by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) today includes results from commercial and clinical labs who recently began providing COVID-19 testing. These results increased the state’s positive case count to a total of 336. “We are pleased to announce that we are now able to provide testing results from hospitals and other entities outside of our state laboratory,” said Dr. Joneigh Khaldun, chief medical executive and chief deputy for health. “We knew there were additional people in Michigan with COVID-19 that had not yet been tested. This emphasizes the need to continue to practice social distancing and other community mitigation practices to help slow the spread of this disease.” MDHHS is currently receiving reports from commercial labs LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics and several clinical labs including Sparrow Hospital in Lansing, the Beaumont Hospital Network, Henry Ford Health System and the MDHHS Bureau of Laboratories (BOL). The addition of cases reported from these new labs have increased the state totals: Positive cases yesterday Cumulative positive cases MDHHS BOL 51 131 Hospital/university* 90 203 Commercial 1 2 Total 142 336 The addition of these reports will allow for the reporting of the following statistics:
Michiganders with questions about COVID-19 can get information in several ways.
Scammers Are Spoofing Health Department Phone Numbers Seeking Medicaid/Medicare Information
Incoming Calls Impact Local Response to COVID-19 LANSING, MICH. Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel is warning that scammers are spoofing phone numbers of at least one local public health department and calling residents to offer medication while asking for their Medicaid and Medicare numbers for billing purposes. Incoming calls to the local health department are then jamming up phonelines and delaying official business in responding to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Reports so far have been focused on the Ionia County Health Department. The Attorney General’s office issued a consumer alert making residents aware of the situation earlier today. “Scammers will not hesitate to gain access to your private information, and false promises of medications will not be fulfilled,” Nessel said. “As a result of this scam, the number of calls to local public health departments are also hindering their ability to respond to the current COVID-19 pandemic. Never provide any personal information over the phone unless you have first independently confirmed who you are talking to.” To seem more official, scammers often use a process known as “spoofing” – when a call appears to be coming from a legitimate government phone number. The caller may also sound professional and be very persuasive. Anyone who receives a phone call they suspect to be a scam should hang up the phone. No one should give out personal information to an unsolicited caller. Residents should also be aware of online coronavirus scams selling bogus products and providing false information on COVID-19 tests and treatments. These attempts to obtain the personal information of consumers may include emails or online posts pitching unreliable products, advice, fake tests and cures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. Those who wish to make a report about potential scams, price-gouging and any other violation of the Michigan Consumer Protection Act can do so with the Attorney General’s Consumer Protection team by filing a complaint online or by calling 877-765-8388. Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.  Gerber Memorial urges people to use phone and online chat for COVID-19 screening, avoid leaving homes FREMONT, Mich., March 18, 2020 – Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial is urging people to use Spectrum Health’s free screening options for the novel coronavirus COVID-19. Spectrum Health’s phone and virtual screening options can help those who have symptoms and may be concerned they have the virus. The purpose is to prevent the spread of illness by enabling people to seek the information they need from their homes, while making it easy and convenient for them. Gerber Memorial advises people to take the following steps from their home:
“Spectrum Health is focused on providing our community with a free service that allows people who may have symptoms of COVID-19 to get answers while staying home and preventing the spread of the coronavirus,” said Shelly Johnson, chief operating officer and interim market leader for Gerber Memorial. “We urge people to call or use our online chat function and avoid leaving their home. Our virtual screening options will let people know if they need further evaluations. Gerber Memorial and our staff are working round-the-clock to make sure the families we serve get the answers and the care they need.”  Spectrum Health Gerber Memorial patient services representative Janelle Navarini and lab assistant Shannon Spangler staff Gerber Memorial’s main lab that has been relocated from the hospital to Tamarac, 1401 W. Main Street. The lab is open to the public. People are asked not to go to Gerber Memorial’s hospital or the temporary lab relocated from the hospital to Tamarac at 1401 W. Main in Fremont if they have symptoms. The relocated lab is for people who do not have COVID-19 symptoms, which include fever, cough and shortness of breath. Hours for the relocated lab, which will remain open to the public, are: Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The lab will be closed Saturdays and Sundays. Callers to the hotline will be scheduled for a virtual video visit and assisted with downloading the Spectrum Health Now app. During the virtual video visit, individuals will be asked questions about their condition by a Spectrum Health provider who will advise whether they need to seek additional care. The patient may select the caregiver of their choice if they need further evaluation. It is not necessary to be a Spectrum Health patient to use the service and receive the free screening. Spectrum Health is offering this service to individuals in the state of Michigan.  People who are concerned about symptoms related to COVID-19 are asked to undergo a screening by phone and through virtual online chat. Cancer patients undergoing active treatment can make appointments for lab tests at the Cancer Center off Pine Street. |
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