COLORADO SPRINGS — With so much information being announced daily about the COVID-19 pandemic, here is a review and preview of what is going on in Southern Colorado as it pertains to the virus:
The Review
Colorado issued finalized guidance Thursday for the reopening of houses of worship, outdoor and personal recreation, including swimming pools, after draft guidance was released earlier this week.
Churches and other houses of worship will be allowed to have indoor services with up to 50 people inside or 50% of the building’s capacity, or outdoors with household groups separated by at least 6 feet.
Indoor gyms, bowling alleys, pools and rec centers can open to up to 25% capacity or 50 people, whichever is fewer.
Indoor pools will be encouraged to limit activities to lap swims and reservation systems are encouraged as well. Proper ventilation, proper cleaning protocols, symptom monitoring, and signage will also be required.
New executive order allows businesses to deny service to those who don't wear masks
At his briefing Thursday afternoon, Governor Jared Polis announced a new executive order that would allow businesses to deny service to people who do not wear masks.
Polis also unveiled a new public service announcement encouraging Coloradans to wear masks. The PSA refers to masks as "our passport to the Colorado we love."
Teller County submits second variance request to reopen casinos
The push to reopen Colorado casinos continues, specifically in Cripple Creek.
The small community relies heavily upon this industry for so many jobs and livelihoods. It's why Teller County commissioners have submitted a second variance request to the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
We're told the first request, a broad one, was submitted on May 8. While the state allowed for many businesses in Teller County to reopen casinos were denied.
Pueblo West residents unhappy about Wet Parade cancellation
Most people in Pueblo West are unhappy that the community's annual Wet Parade is canceled this year.
The Pueblo West Metro District announced Thursday it has called off the Fourth of July Wet-Dry Parade because of CDC and state COVID-19 guidelines.
The event attracts thousands most years.
"It's very heart breaking it is a very positive community event that we all look forward to every year as a matter of fact on the fifth of July you get pretty depressed because you have so much fun as an adult you get to be a big kid," said Jayde Easton, who lives in Pueblo West.
The Preview
The Rebound is coming: We're all in this together
This week, Elizabeth Watts will introduce you to Sharai Johnson, the CEO of a startup called "We Assist" in Colorado Springs.
We'll tell you about how she was ahead of the curve when it came to working from home during the pandemic and ow she helped businesses adapt to these trying times.
Then later in the week, News 5's Patrick Nelson will tell you about how entertainment venues are working to rebound. He'll take a look at how places like the World Arena are adapting and offering things like drive-in movie nights. He also take a look at how getting out to enjoy some entertainemnt is really good for our mental health.
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News 5 is embarking upon a new journey with all of you in The Rebound Colorado. Our will be helping you connect with job opportunities. News 5's team will be here to answer your questions, bringing you expert advice to balance the books, pay the bills, and rebuild savings accounts. E-mail us any time at rebound@koaa.com with your suggestions, feedback, frustrations, ideas, suggestions, and anything else you need.
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