'Just not fair:' Celebrities get coronavirus tests, raising concerns of inequality
WASHINGTON — Celebrities, politicians and professional athletes faced a backlash this week as many revealed that they had been tested for the coronavirus, even when they didn’t have a fever or other tell-tale symptoms.That’s fueling a perception that the wealthy and famous have been able to jump to the head of the line to get tested while others have been turned away or met with long delays.The concerns over preferential treatment underscore a fundamental truth about inequalities baked into the American health care system — those with the financial means can often receive a different level of service.Asked about the issue Wednesday, President Donald Trump said the well-to-do and well-connected shouldn’t get priority for coronavirus tests.
WASHINGTON — Celebrities, politicians and professional athletes faced a backlash this week as many revealed that they had been tested for the coronavirus, even when they didn’t have a fever or other tell-tale symptoms.That’s fueling a perception that the wealthy and famous have been able to jump to the head of the line to get tested while others have been turned away or met with long delays.The concerns over preferential treatment underscore a fundamental truth about inequalities baked into the American health care system — those with the financial means can often receive a different level of service.Asked about the issue Wednesday, President Donald Trump said the well-to-do and well-connected shouldn’t get priority for coronavirus tests.
Wisconsin absentee ballots break record amid virus outbreak
MADISON — Absentee ballot requests for Wisconsin’s April 7 presidential primary hit record territory on Thursday thanks to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, with local clerks processing more requests than at any point in the state's history for a spring election.Elections officials, candidates, political parties and Gov.
MADISON — Absentee ballot requests for Wisconsin’s April 7 presidential primary hit record territory on Thursday thanks to concerns over the COVID-19 pandemic, with local clerks processing more requests than at any point in the state's history for a spring election.Elections officials, candidates, political parties and Gov.
Opening day for Jazz on the Park 2020 pushed back a week to June 4
MILWAUKEE -- East Town Association announced on Thursday, March 19 that the opening date of Jazz in the Park 2020 is being pushed back to Thursday, June 4.
MILWAUKEE -- East Town Association announced on Thursday, March 19 that the opening date of Jazz in the Park 2020 is being pushed back to Thursday, June 4.
COVID-19: Italian death toll overtakes China's as virus spreads
ROME — The death toll in Italy from the coronavirus overtook China’s on Thursday, March 19 in a stark illustration of how the outbreak has pivoted toward Europe and the United States.Italy, with a population of 60 million, recorded at least 3,405 deaths, or roughly 150 more than in China — a country with a population over 20 times larger.Italy reached the bleak milestone the same day that Wuhan, the Chinese city where the coronavirus first emerged three months ago, recorded no new infections, a sign that the communist country's draconian lockdowns were a powerful method to stop the virus' spread.On Thursday, a visiting Chinese Red Cross team criticized Italians' failure to properly quarantine themselves and take the national lockdown seriously.Meanwhile, the damage to the world's largest economy kept piling up, with unemployment claims surging in the United States, while the virus appeared to be opening an alarming new front in Africa, where in less than three weeks it has spread to 35 countries.The epidemic has also now reached at least one European head of state, 62-year-old Prince Albert II of the tiny principality of Monaco.
ROME — The death toll in Italy from the coronavirus overtook China’s on Thursday, March 19 in a stark illustration of how the outbreak has pivoted toward Europe and the United States.Italy, with a population of 60 million, recorded at least 3,405 deaths, or roughly 150 more than in China — a country with a population over 20 times larger.Italy reached the bleak milestone the same day that Wuhan, the Chinese city where the coronavirus first emerged three months ago, recorded no new infections, a sign that the communist country's draconian lockdowns were a powerful method to stop the virus' spread.On Thursday, a visiting Chinese Red Cross team criticized Italians' failure to properly quarantine themselves and take the national lockdown seriously.Meanwhile, the damage to the world's largest economy kept piling up, with unemployment claims surging in the United States, while the virus appeared to be opening an alarming new front in Africa, where in less than three weeks it has spread to 35 countries.The epidemic has also now reached at least one European head of state, 62-year-old Prince Albert II of the tiny principality of Monaco.
Pres. Trump says 'we're looking at drugs already approved for other indications' for COVID-19
WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump said Thursday, March 19 the government should take an equity stake in some companies that need bailouts because of the devastating effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the U.S. economy.President Trump told a briefing he has executive authority to curb the impact on businesses."There's a lot of executive power," he said. “If we don't have to use it, that would be a good thing, not a bad thing.”Such a move could be an extraordinary reach by government into the private sector.
WASHINGTON -- President Donald Trump said Thursday, March 19 the government should take an equity stake in some companies that need bailouts because of the devastating effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the U.S. economy.President Trump told a briefing he has executive authority to curb the impact on businesses."There's a lot of executive power," he said. “If we don't have to use it, that would be a good thing, not a bad thing.”Such a move could be an extraordinary reach by government into the private sector.
Volunteer Wisconsin connects volunteers to those in self-quarantine or in need of services
MILWAUKEE -- Significant community needs are developing because of the coronavirus pandemic.
MILWAUKEE -- Significant community needs are developing because of the coronavirus pandemic.
$10 toilet paper? Coronavirus gouging complaints surge in US
NEW YORK -- One store advertised hand sanitizer at $60 a bottle.
NEW YORK -- One store advertised hand sanitizer at $60 a bottle.
2 positive cases of COVID-19 in Racine, 'likely exposed through community interactions'
RACINE -- Racine health officials on Thursday, March 19 confirmed two positive cases of the novel coronavirus in the city -- the first two cases in Racine.Officials with the Racine Public Health Department said in a news release the residents were likely exposed in Wisconsin through community interactions.“Our team at the City of Racine is working tirelessly to get ahead of the COVID-19 crisis and protect the health and safety of our residents,” said Racine Mayor Cory Mason. “We will continue to work with state and federal health officials and our local partners and take the necessary steps to slow the spread of COVID-19.”Health officials noted an investigation into the circumstances and close contacts of the two individuals in Racine.“We want to determine exposure routes and identify contacts who will need to be notified, quarantined, and monitored for symptoms of COVID-19,” said Dottie-Kay Bowersox, public health administrator for the City of Racine.“It is important to note that these individuals are not linked with any school, childcare, or long-term care facility.”Officials said contacts would be monitored for the development of fever and respiratory symptoms in accordance with DHS and CDC guidance.Those experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 were asked to call their health care provider for guidance.Racine County health departments do not have tests or testing capacity.
RACINE -- Racine health officials on Thursday, March 19 confirmed two positive cases of the novel coronavirus in the city -- the first two cases in Racine.Officials with the Racine Public Health Department said in a news release the residents were likely exposed in Wisconsin through community interactions.“Our team at the City of Racine is working tirelessly to get ahead of the COVID-19 crisis and protect the health and safety of our residents,” said Racine Mayor Cory Mason. “We will continue to work with state and federal health officials and our local partners and take the necessary steps to slow the spread of COVID-19.”Health officials noted an investigation into the circumstances and close contacts of the two individuals in Racine.“We want to determine exposure routes and identify contacts who will need to be notified, quarantined, and monitored for symptoms of COVID-19,” said Dottie-Kay Bowersox, public health administrator for the City of Racine.“It is important to note that these individuals are not linked with any school, childcare, or long-term care facility.”Officials said contacts would be monitored for the development of fever and respiratory symptoms in accordance with DHS and CDC guidance.Those experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19 were asked to call their health care provider for guidance.Racine County health departments do not have tests or testing capacity.
Wall Street see-saws up and down as volatility retains grip
NEW YORK — Stocks are see-sawing between gains and losses in midday trading on Wall Street Thursday, but the moves are more subdued than the wild jabs that have dominated recent weeks.
NEW YORK — Stocks are see-sawing between gains and losses in midday trading on Wall Street Thursday, but the moves are more subdued than the wild jabs that have dominated recent weeks.
Professionals address mental health impact amid COVID-19 pandemic
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. -- Many people are concerned about their physical well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, but now mental health is coming to the forefront due to new stressors such as having to work from home or not working at all.The COVID-19 virus is bringing anxiety and stress to many Americans.Ramona Perkins, a licensed professional counselor, says people like to know what's next."As humans, we are really programmed to like predictability.
HUNTSVILLE, Ala. -- Many people are concerned about their physical well-being during the COVID-19 pandemic, but now mental health is coming to the forefront due to new stressors such as having to work from home or not working at all.The COVID-19 virus is bringing anxiety and stress to many Americans.Ramona Perkins, a licensed professional counselor, says people like to know what's next."As humans, we are really programmed to like predictability.
1st case of COVID-19 confirmed in Greenfield; 'likely exposed while traveling'
GREENFIELD -- Health officials on Thursday, March 19 confirmed the first positive case of the novel coronavirus in Greenfield.In a news release, officials said the patient remained in quarantine since returning from international travel, and city leaders activated an Emergency Operations Center to address and monitor the COVID-19 response across the city.“While this case was likely exposed to COVID-19 while traveling, there is significant evidence of community spread within the Greater Greenfield area,” said Darren Rausch, health officer/director in the release. “We continue to work closely with federal, state, and regional partners to monitor this evolving situation.”To minimize the spread of COVID-19 illness, the Greenfield Health Department recommended extreme social distancing measures.Bars and restaurants were ordered to close dine-in service on Tuesday afternoon, March 17, and health officials strongly recommended business leaders work to encourage social distancing in their settings throughout the city.A Public Health Emergency declared by city officials was approved by the Common Council on Tuesday.All city departments closed to the public except for the City Clerk's Office -- open for voter registration and in-person absentee voting starting Monday, March 23).
GREENFIELD -- Health officials on Thursday, March 19 confirmed the first positive case of the novel coronavirus in Greenfield.In a news release, officials said the patient remained in quarantine since returning from international travel, and city leaders activated an Emergency Operations Center to address and monitor the COVID-19 response across the city.“While this case was likely exposed to COVID-19 while traveling, there is significant evidence of community spread within the Greater Greenfield area,” said Darren Rausch, health officer/director in the release. “We continue to work closely with federal, state, and regional partners to monitor this evolving situation.”To minimize the spread of COVID-19 illness, the Greenfield Health Department recommended extreme social distancing measures.Bars and restaurants were ordered to close dine-in service on Tuesday afternoon, March 17, and health officials strongly recommended business leaders work to encourage social distancing in their settings throughout the city.A Public Health Emergency declared by city officials was approved by the Common Council on Tuesday.All city departments closed to the public except for the City Clerk's Office -- open for voter registration and in-person absentee voting starting Monday, March 23).
Wisconsin DWD officials outline how to apply for unemployment benefits online
MADISON -- With many businesses closed and people out of work amid the coronavirus pandemic, as Governor Tony Evers issued a ban on gatherings of 10 or more, and ordered bars and restaurants to close except for carryout or delivery, officials with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development on Thursday, March 19 outlined how to apply for unemployment benefits online.In a news release, DWD officials advised people to apply online due to "heavy call volume and longer than normal wait times."You can get started by CLICKING HERE.When you click that link, you can file your application for unemployment benefits.
MADISON -- With many businesses closed and people out of work amid the coronavirus pandemic, as Governor Tony Evers issued a ban on gatherings of 10 or more, and ordered bars and restaurants to close except for carryout or delivery, officials with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development on Thursday, March 19 outlined how to apply for unemployment benefits online.In a news release, DWD officials advised people to apply online due to "heavy call volume and longer than normal wait times."You can get started by CLICKING HERE.When you click that link, you can file your application for unemployment benefits.
US mortgage rates climb this week; 30-year loan at 3.65%
WASHINGTON — U.S. long-term mortgage rates climbed this week in a whip-sawing market amid deepening anxiety over devastation to the economy from the coronavirus pandemic.Home loan rates had hit all-time lows two weeks ago.
WASHINGTON — U.S. long-term mortgage rates climbed this week in a whip-sawing market amid deepening anxiety over devastation to the economy from the coronavirus pandemic.Home loan rates had hit all-time lows two weeks ago.
Pick ‘n Save, Metro Market to offer designated shopping hours for seniors amid COVID-19 pandemic
MILWAUKEE -- All Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market stores throughout Wisconsin beginning Friday, March 20 will have designated shopping hours for those who are most at risk for COVID-19.
MILWAUKEE -- All Pick ‘n Save and Metro Market stores throughout Wisconsin beginning Friday, March 20 will have designated shopping hours for those who are most at risk for COVID-19.
Virus-shocked Hollywood gets break with streaming services
LOS ANGELES — Sports are on hold, movie theaters are closed and so are amusement parks.
LOS ANGELES — Sports are on hold, movie theaters are closed and so are amusement parks.
Hallmark Channel to air Christmas movie marathon as more people self-quarantine
STUDIO CITY, Calif. – As many folks remain at home to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Hallmark Channel is stepping up to help provide some cheerful entertainment.According to Entertainment Tonight, a special Christmas movie marathon is scheduled for this weekend to help ease the nation’s social isolation.
STUDIO CITY, Calif. – As many folks remain at home to help prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Hallmark Channel is stepping up to help provide some cheerful entertainment.According to Entertainment Tonight, a special Christmas movie marathon is scheduled for this weekend to help ease the nation’s social isolation.
Customer leaves server $1,000 tip: 'I froze like a statue'
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- It couldn't have come at a better time for a server at a restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona.Raymond Shepherd took a to-go order early Tuesday morning from a restaurant regular.
SCOTTSDALE, Ariz. -- It couldn't have come at a better time for a server at a restaurant in Scottsdale, Arizona.Raymond Shepherd took a to-go order early Tuesday morning from a restaurant regular.
Toilet paper being stolen from rest stops in Nebraska, officials forced to restrict access
LINCOLN, Neb. — Toilet paper has become a coveted supply at grocery stores across the country in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, with many struggling to keep up with demand.Now it appears people have found another way to get some: rest stop bathrooms.Travelers have been stealing toilet paper at stops along Interstate 80 in Nebraska, according to the Lincoln Journal Star.
LINCOLN, Neb. — Toilet paper has become a coveted supply at grocery stores across the country in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, with many struggling to keep up with demand.Now it appears people have found another way to get some: rest stop bathrooms.Travelers have been stealing toilet paper at stops along Interstate 80 in Nebraska, according to the Lincoln Journal Star.
REM’s Michael Stipe says it’s end of the world as we know it, but he feels fine
LOS ANGELES -- Michael Stipe has posted a video in which he sings R.E.M.’s “It’s The End of the World As We Know It,” and says that he feels fine.He says the important part of the lyric is “as we know it,” because “we’re going through something that none of us have ever encountered before.”
LOS ANGELES -- Michael Stipe has posted a video in which he sings R.E.M.’s “It’s The End of the World As We Know It,” and says that he feels fine.He says the important part of the lyric is “as we know it,” because “we’re going through something that none of us have ever encountered before.”
How long will Americans be fighting the coronavirus?
WASHINGTON — In a matter of days, millions of Americans have seen their lives upended by measures to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.Normally bustling streets are deserted as families hunker down in their homes.
WASHINGTON — In a matter of days, millions of Americans have seen their lives upended by measures to curb the spread of the new coronavirus.Normally bustling streets are deserted as families hunker down in their homes.