Cactus Hugs has been tracking local stories about the coronavirus. Some links might be behind that other website’s paywall…nothing we can do about that, sorry. For a rundown of all of our updates, click here.
- Riverside County officials announced the first two deaths from coronavirus in the Coachella Valley. “Our thoughts are with the families of the two patients,” County Public Health Officer, Dr. Cameron Kaiser said in a statement. “Sadly, these outcomes are expected as we face a serious challenge and continue to make the necessary decisions to protect the health of the community.”
First COVID-19 deaths reported in Riverside County; Public Health Officer also orders social gatherings canceled of 10 or more: https://t.co/CSmmbWdNmf #coronavirus #ruhealth #rivconow
— Dr. Cameron Kaiser (@RivCoDoc) March 17, 2020
- Governor Gavin Newsom stated on Monday that restaurants should be closed for in-house dining and should focus on drive-thru, delivery, and to-go. Some local restaurants are promoting take out and delivery options:
If you are a restaurant shifting to delivery and take-out, let us know about it as Cactus Hugs would like to compile a list for the Coachella Valley in the not-too-distant future.
- The Desert Sun has a list of ways you can help during the coronavirus pandemic – with options including donating blood, volunteering at a food bank, and supporting local businesses.
- The Governor has told seniors in the state to stay home. Some local seniors are having a hard time doing that.
- The Indio Police Department has instituted some changes, including the closing of its lobby:
- La Quinta has closed its library and museum:
In order to avoid the promotion of public gatherings, the La Quinta Library and the La Quinta Museum will be closed until the end of April. The health and safety of our community is our priority.
— City of La Quinta (@CityofLaQuinta) March 17, 2020
- Agua Caliente Casino has closed its buffets, spas, and showroom, but the casino remains open.
- Palm Springs has ordered the clousure of cannabis lounges and commercial gyms.
- Local theaters struggled with the decision to close…until that decision was made for them.
- Grocery store hours are being cut, lines remain long, supplies of some items remain short:
- Clark’s Nutrition is opening early for elderly and disabled shoppers:
- Some people are calling 9-1-1 because they hear their neighbor coughing.
- It’s St. Patrick’s Day and while that would normally call for crowded bars, whiskey, and boiled meat, this year, it’s going to be a little different. For the many who will be celebrating at home, The Dropkick Murphy’s have announced they will be streaming a performance today at 4 pm PT:
Important information:
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- The New York Times has an interactive map where you can track every coronavirus case in the United States.
- The Washington Post is out with a guide to what you should know about the coronavirus.
- Schools are closed, but free student meals are available. Here is the information on meal programs during this time for each Coachella Valley school district.
- The United Way of the Desert has assembled a nice list of information and resources available during the coronavirus here.
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— Eisenhower Health (@EisenhowerHeal) March 9, 2020
These are scary and anxious times. Be safe and kind to each other out there and, please, remember to wash your hands.
Anything we missed? Let us know about it.
