Trying to make sense of everything that’s coming at you over the coronavirus crisis is like drinking from the proverbial fire hose. So here’s some distilled info that might help you wade through the clutter…
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If you can…stay home. Not for Nevada. Not because Gov. Sisolak ordered you to. But because it’s the best, fastest and safest way to end this nightmare and get to work rebuilding our shattered economy.
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Mask or no mask? Experts seem to disagree on whether wearing a scarf or bandana over your face will protect you from the coronavirus or keep you from spreading it. But here’s the thing: It won’t hurt. So what the heck.
BTW, wanna see a really cool, simple way to make a do-it-yourself mask using a pair of hair ties and a cloth napkin? Click here.
Just be careful when wearing one into your bank! Don’t want anyone to think you’re there to rob the place. LOL
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If you suddenly find yourself homeschooling kids because the schools have been shut down, don’t panic and don’t stress. Instead, read this column.
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If you suddenly find yourself without health insurance, the Silver State Health Exchange has reopened its enrollment window through April 15. For more information, click here or call (800) 547-2927.
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If you qualify, your relief check from the federal government is expected to be sent the week of April 13, but only if the IRS already has you set up to receive direct deposits into your bank based on your 2018 or 2019 tax return.
Paper checks for everyone else are expected to start going out on May 4. However, they’ll only be able to process about 5 million checks per week. Meaning some people could be waiting until as late as August.
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Thanks to passage of the CARES Act, sole proprietors and independent contractors are now eligible for unemployment – including an additional $600/week from the federal government.
You’re not able to apply yet, as DETR (Department of Employment Training & Rehabilitation) is still setting up the system. But once launched you’ll be able to apply for benefits retroactively to the time you lost your job. Click here for more info and updates from DETR.
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If you’re a small business that needs help, the CARES Act established four new temporary SBA loan programs to help weather the storm. Here are direct links to help you determine if you qualify and if any make sense for your operation…
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The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) is actively fighting on behalf of SMALL businesses and offers assistance to members. And boy, could you use it right now!
If you’re not a member, you should be. Contact Julie Burke if you’re a Nevada small business. (702) 239-0992 or [email protected].
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Because of a drop in blood donations, the FDA is now allowing donations from gay and bisexual men, as well as people with recent tattoos and piercings. If you’re looking for something positive to do to help out, donating blood is a great way.
Click here for info on Red Cross donation center in Las Vegas. Click here for info on Red Cross donation center in St. George. Click here for info on United Blood Services (now Vitalant) in Clark County.
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Earlier this week the Las Vegas Review-Journal began publishing a new type of FREE classified ads section featuring small businesses that are open to serve you in one form or another…including legal services, bars/restaurants (take out/delivery), landscaping and health services. Click here if you want more information.
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When it comes to your mortgage, lenders can’t “re-write” your contract and simply defer your payments for three to six months. Instead they’re offering “forbearance.” Which means you won’t have to make payments or get hit with late fees and penalties – and won’t have your credit ruined. But eventually you’ll have to make up those payments, possibly by refinancing your loan once the crisis has passed.
The thing is, if you’re at all concerned about putting food on your table for the next couple of months, and many Nevadans are under the circumstances, contact your bank and see if you qualify for a forbearance allowance.
If you have questions or problems related to paying your rent, mortgage or student loan, contact the Nevada State Treasurer’s office. Send your email to [email protected]
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“The freedoms and liberties we hold so dear must remain protected, especially in times of emergency or crisis. … In today’s unprecedented government power quest, we as citizens must apply rational, critical thinking and decision-making to navigate through the increasing restrictions of civil liberties during a climate of relentless fear-mongering and media hysteria. … Limited government in a Republic has to work within the confines of the Constitution.” – Idaho Rep. Heather Scott
Annie Black is a Mesquite City Councilwoman and Republican candidate for Nevada State Assembly District 19. You can get more information by visiting www.electannieblack.com
1 thought on “Some CoronaVirus News You Can Actually Use”
Think your hitting the mark here on all your articles. Thank you Annie! Keep it Coming.
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