UPDATE: Governor Whitmer COVID-19 Daily Update January 11, 2021

Michigan Executive Office of the Governor sent this bulletin at 01/11/2021 06:30 AM EST

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ICYMI 

 

  • On Friday, Governor Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) announced new guidance to keep students, staff and communities safe during the COVID-19 pandemic while providing the in-person instruction that is crucial to learning and development. The state’s goal is to have all Michigan school districts offer an in-person learning option for students no later than March 1, and earlier if possible. 

 

“The value of in-person learning for our kids is immeasurable, and we must do everything we can to help them get a great education safely,” said Gov. Whitmer. “Over the last 10 months, medical experts and epidemiologists have closely followed the data and have learned that schools can establish a low risk of transmission by ensuring that everyone wears a mask and adopting careful infection prevention protocols. I also announced this week that educators and support staff will be eligible for the next phase of COVID vaccinations beginning Jan. 11 to help protect them and their families as they return to work. I strongly encourage districts to provide as much face-to-face learning as possible, and my administration will work closely with them to get it done.” 

 

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  • Over the weekend, Governor Whitmer ordered U.S. and Michigan flags within the State Capitol Complex and upon all public buildings and grounds across the state of Michigan to be lowered to half-staff immediately on Saturday, January 9 to honor the service of United States Army Master Sergeant Jeffrey Saum and coincide with his funeral.  

  

“Our state mourns the loss of Army Master Sergeant Jeffrey Saum as he is laid to rest today,” Whitmer said. “The flags will be lowered to honor his life and signal our gratitude for his selfless service to our state and nation in the United States Army. My thoughts are with his family and friends during this difficult time.” 

 

  • MDHHS announced 2,706 cases of COVID-19 from Saturday. This brings the total number of positive cases of COVID-19 to 519,082. 

 

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HAPPENING ACROSS STATE GOVERNMENT 

 

  • Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development announced this year’s competitive grant cycle for the state’s county fairs to make building and other capital improvements to their fairground facilities. Additionally, grants are available for associations or other organized events hosting fairs or expositions showing livestock and commodities. Both grant proposals must be received by MDARD no later than 5 p.m. on Monday, March 15, 2021. 

 

The capital improvement program provides additional funds for county fair officials to help make needed improvements to their fairground facilities; including but not limited to structural improvements or other renovations to buildings. 

 

  • The Michigan State Police recognized National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day and the countless men and women who have put their lives on the line to protect and serve the people of Michigan.  

 

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