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VPM Daily Newscast: April 2, 2020

Restaurant facade from street
Joe's Inn has operated since 1952, but they've been hit hard by the coronavirus outbreak - nearly 50 employees were laid off after the restaurant moved to takeout only. (Photo: Crixell Matthews/VPM News)

During the coronavirus outbreak, VPM is running a daily newscast of our reporting, hosted by Benjamin Dolle. Episodes are recorded at 6 p.m. and released at 7 a.m. the next day, Tuesday through Friday.

In this episode:

Spike in Coronavirus Cases Coming
Coronavirus cases are expected to spike between late April and early May. To prevent overcrowding at hospitals, Gov. Ralph Northam says his administration is identifying locations for potential medical overflow sites.

Sports Tourism Suffering Under COVID-19
Sports tourism has taken a big hit during the pandemic, and that might mean a major financial loss for Central Virginia. Last year, sports tourism visitors spent $63 million in the region.

YWCA Offering Childcare for Essential Workers
Children as young as 18 months and as old as five are eligible for the $250 per week childcare program, which is offering 55 spots. Daycare operates from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday. Diapers and food are included, and they are accepting sliding scale tuition. Apply via email at  [email protected].

Neighbors, Customers Donate to Joe's Inn Employees 
The venerable Fan restaurant has been hit hard by the coronavirus, cutting its workforce by nearly 50 employees. The business organized a GoFundMe to raise money to help its workers, and have received nearly $19,000 in donations.

During Pandemic, Families Want More Transparency From Nursing Home
Coronavirus cases have surged in a Henrico nursing home. Administrators say they've increased staff pay and are taking adequate measures to slow the spread of COVID-19, but family members describe a chaotic, confusing ordeal and poor communication.

Related Articles
  1. Families Urge More Transparency From Henrico Nursing Home Following COVID-19 Outbreak
  2. Regional Sports Tourism Industry Suffering Under Coronavirus
  3. Richmond Restaurant Raises Nearly $19,000 for Employees
  4. Coronavirus Expected to Hit Highest Levels in Virginia Within Two Months