The State – 2/9/21

B.1.1.7 MAY BE CLOSER THAN YOU THINK: Mask up, Spartans. The first B.1.1.7 strain of covid was found in the Greater Lansing vicinity. Eaton County which is nearby Ingham County on Feb. 8 announced they have their first case of the more contagious strain. The Barry- Eaton District Health Department said in a press release that details involving the individual have not been released because the investigation is still in progress and unknown at the moment. This variant possibly stands a chance being more contagious and deadly than any other known strains.

810,000 MICHIGAN KIDS ELIGIBLE FOR FOOD SECURITY: Michigan families will now be able to continue receiving food aid during the COVID-19 pandemic. Governor Gretchen Whitmer and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services on Feb. 5 announced that the approval for another round of Pandemic EBT has been granted permission through the federal level. This will serve a favor for the 810,000 Michigan kids who are a part of the National School Lunch Program. To be qualified your school must not have in person classes available, but if a hybrid format is in place, then you’re still eligible.

SECOND BOARD OF TRUSTEES MEETING WILL BE ON FEB. 12: On Friday, Feb. 12, The Michigan State Board of Trustees will host their second virtual meeting of the semester. The meeting will take place on Zoom, at 8 a.m. A report from President Samuel L. Stanley Jr. says that one of the topics that will be discussed will include Interim Vice President Douglas Gage explaining the Gift, Grant and Contract Report so the board can approve. “Black Girl Genius” a presentation created by the chairperson of African American and African Studies, Ruth Brown will also be given, among other reports by the board.

Script Writer: Chandra Fleming

The State is produced by The State News and Impact 89FM.