August 19, 2020 If you are keeping an eye on the graph line of Michigan's new daily COVID-19 cases, it could appear like it is almost flat. For the first half of August, numbers have been pretty consistent, staying within a variation of less than 100 cases. Experts are saying they are "cautiously optimistic" about the plateau, but it isn't the only thing to consider when deciding how Michigan is doing in the fight against the virus. Regional spikes, the percentage of positive tests coming back and deaths have to be monitored. We looked at several factors to analyze the current situation with our state and COVID-19. The experts agree that while there might be some reasons for that cautious optimism, no one should let their guard down yet. MORE Former Vice President Joe Biden's campaign wants to convince Michigan voters that President Donald Trump is responsible for the state's economic downturn related to the coronavirus pandemic. The campaign plans to spend $44 million in campaign ads focused on COVID-19 within Michigan and other battleground states. “To fix the economy, we need to get control over the virus,” Biden is seen saying in one ad. But Republicans claim Biden’s policies will stifle an ongoing economic recovery. MORE ►With DNC speech, Whitmer steps further into national spotlight Summer vacation (like pretty much everything else) has changed this year due to the coronavirus pandemic. Far fewer people are traveling out of state, meaning Michiganders are staying closer to home for relaxation and adventure this season. As many people try to make sure their trips have built-in social-distancing measures, remote areas have been very desirable. That means some places in northern Michigan are having a better summer season than usual. And RV rentals and sales are way up. But, obviously, some areas are seeing a summer downturn this year, like Michigan's bigger cities. MORE ►Find last-minute campsites at Michigan state parks on this DNR map Football has been pushed back to spring, but parents and student athletes are waiting on more answers about other fall sports. Those with questions regarding volleyball, boys soccer and girls swimming are expecting to get some clarity today from the Michigan High School Athletic Association. Today is also the day when some other sports will get underway. Golf, tennis and cross country appear to be cleared for their seasons. Here are some of the other questions surrounding Michigan's prep sports. MORE Thirteen people from across Michigan will redraw the state's electoral boundaries prior to the 2022 election. The commissioners are Republicans, Democrats and non-affiliated residents of various ages and backgrounds who all applied to take part in the process and were recently picked from a list of finalists during a live drawing. The commission is being assembled as the result of a 2018 voter-approved ballot proposal, which takes the power away from politicians and hands the redistricting responsibility over to these citizens:MORE ►13 commissioners randomly selected to draw new district lines in Michigan Get your local news 24/7 Connect with MLive To ensure receipt of our emails, please add newsletters@update.mlive to your address book or safe sender list. |