* Hi, I’m Isabella Janney with the Colorado Springs Daily and today is July 3rd, 2020. Tomorrow is the 4th of July and celebrations should be looking a little different this year. Our first segment today, we’ll discuss the spike in COVID cases here in El Paso County and how to stay safe this Independence Day. Our second story focuses on slightly more localized COVID outbreak: this one affecting the Air Force Academy. And, our last story of the day is about the new nominee to be superintendent of the Air Force Academy.
* And to kick off our first story, according to the Colorado Department of Health and Environment, El Paso County has seen a spike in COVID-19 cases compared to the month of June. On July 1st, there were 57 new reported coronavirus cases in El Paso County county.The highest number of cases reported in June was on the 25th with 45 cases. Governor Jared Polis is urging Coloradans to wear masks, follow social distancing requirements and wash their hands frequently this holiday weekend. Polis says, “This Independence Day is a time to celebrate our freedom that so many fought to gain, but with freedom comes responsibility, so please exercise personal responsibility, use common sense, and err on the side of caution.”
* Being outside is ideal for lowering the risk of transmission, but everyone is urged to check fire bans if they plan to be outdoors in addition to checking COVID related rules wherever they are planning to go. Remember to keep gatherings small, keep your distance from others, wash your hands frequently and wear a mask. I hope everyone has a safe and fun weekend!
* https://www.csindy.com/TheWire/archives/2020/07/02/covid-19-roundup-for-july-2-polis-urges-coloradans-to-have-a-safe-4th-of-july
* https://krdo.com/news/2020/07/02/state-data-shows-spike-in-el-paso-county-covid-19-cases-going-into-the-holiday-weekend/
* And now, for our second story of today, let’s talk about the COVID-19 outbreak happening at the Air Force Academy. The AFA is having an outbreak of COVID-19 among new cadets, specifically among abouut 100 cadets in the freshman class, who reported to Academy grounds on June 25th. Academy spokesperson Mike Kucharek says the actual number is “far lower,” though he wouldn’t disclose how many have tested positive and a spokesperson for the Academy wanted to make it clear that social media posts were exaggerated. The infected cadets are reportedly being quarantined with their roommates at the Academy while the administration decides whether to keep them there or send them home. Academic classes don’t start until early August, so it’s hard to say how the situation may evolve until then. Kucharek also said, “Cadets are critical accession resources for the Air Force. As such, we have an obligation to train and educate the next Air and Space forces leaders.”
* https://www.kktv.com/content/news/COVID-19-outbreak–571611601.html
* https://www.csindy.com/TheWire/archives/2020/07/02/air-force-academy-sees-covid-outbreak-among-incoming-cadets
* Our last story today also concerns the Air Force Academy, but with some more positive news! President Trump has nominated a new superintendent for the U.S. Air Force Academy. His name is Lt. Gen. Richard M. Clark and he’s the first African American that has been nominated to lead the Air Force Academy. Lt. Gen. Clark will become the next superintendent if he’s confirmed by the Senate. Lt. Gen. Jay Silveria, the current superintendent, says, “I have no doubt that Lt. Gen. Clark will be an extraordinary leader for the Academy. He has a long history with USAFA and an exceptional leadership record.”
* https://krdo.com/news/2020/07/02/president-trump-nominates-new-superintendent-for-air-force-academy/
* Thank you so much for listening today. I’m Isabella Janney with the Colorado Springs Daily.
