DeSantis Defends Not Ordering Statewide Shutdown
(Orlando, FL) -- The governor doesn't appear to be any closer to ordering a statewide shutdown. Some have asked Governor Ron DeSantis to issue a statewide Stay-at-Home order, but yesterday in Orlando, he said, again, he has no plans to do so. He said it's inappropriate to stop someone from earning a paycheck when they live in an area that has few confirmed cases, and he's worried that putting more people out of work will lead to suicide, drug abuse, domestic violence and child abuse. Meanwhile, a Change.org petition asking for a statewide shutdown has collected over 260-thousand signatures.
Biden Criticizes DeSantis
(Tallahassee, FL) -- Joe Biden is criticizing the governor in what one Republican calls a cry for relevancy. The former vice president yesterday said he disagreed with Ron DeSantis' refusal to order a statewide shutdown to stop the spread of the coronavirus. He accused DeSantis of ignoring science, and he said Floridians deserve to hear from the public health officials leading the charge. A state GOP official tells Politico.com that polls show Floridians approve of how DeSantis is handling the pandemic, so criticizing him is not a great move.
Trump Approves Disaster Declaration
(Tallahassee, FL) -- The White House agrees to help Florida deal with the coronavirus. President Trump yesterday declared a major disaster exists in Florida, and he ordered federal assistance to supplement state and local efforts. DeSantis says Florida is prepared for the fight ahead and will come out stronger than ever before. The state has almost two-thousand COVID-19 cases and 23 deaths.
Brevard County Hospitals Say They're Ready For Outbreak
(Titusville, FL) -- If the number of coronavirus cases swells in Brevard County, hospitals believe they'll be ready. As of last night, the Florida Department of Health counted 12 COVID-19 cases in Brevard, and zero deaths. Only two of the patients have required hospitalization, but Steward Health and Health First say they have enough beds and ventilators for many more. Parrish Medical Center tells Florida Today it has enough room and equipment for 32 critically ill patients.
Orange County Stay-At-Home Order Goes Into Effect Tonight
(Orlando, FL) -- Today could be your last day to move about freely in Orange County for a while. A countywide two-week Stay-at-Home order goes into effect at 11:00 tonight. Only essential travel will be allowed for grocery shopping or medical needs. Outdoor exercise will also be exempt. The county has 89 COVID-19 cases and two deaths.
Osceola County Issues Stay-At-Home Order
(Kissimmee, FL) -- More Central Floridians are being told to stay at home to slow the spread of the coronavirus. Osceola County announced yesterday a Stay-at-Home order will go into effect at 11:00 tonight, and it will be in effect until April 9th. Exceptions will be allowed for grocery shopping, medical needs and jobs that provide essential services. Osceola County has 39 COVID-19 cases and zero deaths.
Miami To Enact Curfew
(Miami, FL) -- Moving around Miami is about to get more difficult. The city commission voted yesterday to enact a curfew. It will be in place from 10:00 p.m. to 5:00 a.m. starting tomorrow night, and it will be in effect for at least a week. Exceptions will be made for those working essential jobs, those who need medical attention and those walking their dogs near their homes. The city of Miami has 256 COVID-19 cases, which is the most in the state.
Sheriff Tony To Crack Down On Non-Essential Businesses Staying Open
(Fort Lauderdale, FL) -- Some businesses in Broward County may soon find out they're not as essential as they think they are. Non-essential businesses have been ordered to close, and Sheriff Gregory Tony said yesterday those that have not done so could face citations. That could affect a Fort Lauderdale hair salon, which says it's still open because getting your hair dyed is an essential service. Sheriff Tony tells Local 10 News it's not fair that some businesses aren't playing by the same rules as everyone else.
Clothing Company Uses Governor's Words In Shirt Design
(Columbus, OH) -- The people of Ohio can now wear their governor's words of encouragement. Mike DeWine put the state on lockdown over the weekend and said "We are Ohioans. We are Buckeyes. We are strong." A local clothing company was so inspired, it designed shirts and sweatshirts with that exact message. Proceeds will benefit the Red Cross.
English Vicar Sets Himself On Fire During Virtual Service
(England) -- A British vicar is doing fine after accidentally setting himself on fire while conducting a sermon online. Video shows 61-year-old Reverend Stephen Beach, of St Budeaux Parish Church in Plymouth, hosting the virtual sermon before leaning over some candles. The 61-year-old says "Oh dear, I just caught fire" as his sleeve sparks a flame. He managed to quickly put it out, avoiding any injuries. The vicar told local media outlets that some other vicars have joked about him "being on fire for Jesus."
TODAY IN HISTORY:
1997, the bodies of 39 members of the Heaven's Gate cult were found inside a home in Rancho Santa Fe, California, following their group suicide.
1982, groundbreaking ceremonies took place in Washington DC for the Vietnam Veterans Memorial.
1953, Doctor Jonas Salk announced he had successfully tested a vaccine against polio.
1945, the Battle of Iwo Jima ended.
1885, Eastman Kodak produced the first commercial moving picture film.