Coronavirus forces Florida universities to move online
The Florida Board of Governors has declared that universities move to online classes.
“First and foremost, the health and safety of students within the State University System is our top priority,” the board said in a written statement. “As we have continued to monitor the spread of the COVID-19 virus it has become clear that to protect the students and the residents of our state, proactive rather than reactive guidance to universities is necessary.”
The board stated that universities with students currently on campus should tell their students to stay home an extra two weeks once they return from spring break while universities that have already had their spring break or are currently on break should encourage their students to stay home for an additional two weeks.
Gov. Ron DeSantis held a press conference today after declaring a public health crisis in the wake of new coronavirus cases in Florida.
The Florida Department of Health declared eight new cases of coronavirus on Tuesday. Of the new cases, two are in Pinellas County and one is in Pasco County bringing total to 21 cases in Florida. So far only two individuals have died from the virus.
The University of South Florida has canceled all large gatherings on its campus of more than 100 people to protect students. Conferences with visitors from other states or countries are cancelled until further notice. The university has not cancelled classes but is advising faculty to begin preparing for online classes.
New 311 service line in Manatee
Manatee County has rolled out a new service line for all non-emergency calls after consolidating 10 unique information lines.
The call line, officially called One Call Resolution Center, will provide callers with information on everything from pothole reporting to elected officials and flood zones. The county hopes to consolidate all 16 phone lines into the 311 system to streamline the process of finding information for Manatee residents.
“This service will allow us to quickly and efficiently handle citizens needs while providing feedback along the way,” said Public Safety Director Jacob Saur. “From potholes to complaints, citizens no longer need to know who to call. Just dial 3-1-1 and we will help you.”
The 311 service is available on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Residents are still advised to call 911 in an emergency situation.
Stay and Play available during spring break
The City of Tampa’s Department of Parks and Recreation is keeping some centers open until midnight as part of their Stay and Play program.
“Its a way to keep teens safe,” said Josh Allen of the Copeland Community Center. “Keep the off the streets, its bringing them inside to be here with some of my staff who are mentors, coaches who are there for the kids as well.”
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