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Charlestown Town Hall Special Notices! April 7, 2020

NOTE: If you are having trouble viewing some of the contents which may have been saved as an image, please download town hall photo above by right clicking, or tap the photo and hold to download.

PLEASE NOTE that in this uncertain time, directives are rapidly changing. We have made an effort to list these notices, starting with the most recent, in each of the Local, State, Federal and "Other" categories listed below (keep scrolling down).

Please note that Charlestown's website is the only continuing "live" link, due to copying limitations. However, in this issue there are a couple of other "live" links. (1) a "live" link, after the Governor's letter (Hello friend), to sign up for COVID-19 testing under "State Notices". (2) Health Home Community Resources Guide under "Other Notices" (this guide is 82 pages long - thus not a candidate to be put page by page in this update).

Also, please see the Town's website, www.charlestownri.org, for a new category, COVID-19 (top of page to right), with links to many informational sites. LOCAL NOTICES BELOW

STATE NOTICES BELOW

Sign up for an appointment - click here.

Governor Gina M. Raimondo

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: April 6, 2020 Josh Block [email protected] 401-222-8060

Rhode Island to Make Free, Rapid COVID-19 Tests Available to All

New drive-through testing site at Twin River will offer on-the-spot results

State's testing capacity doubled thanks to partnership with CVS Health

PROVIDENCE, R.I.- Governor Gina M. Raimondo announced today that has formed a partnership with CVS Health to make free, rapid COVID-19 tests available to all Rhode Islanders. Tests using the new Abbott ID NOW™ system will now be provided by-appointment at a new drive-through testing site at Twin River casino in Lincoln. This testing site will be able to perform approximately 1,000 tests per day, doubling Rhode Island's current testing capacity.

"Today marks a giant leap forward in our efforts to combat this virus," said Governor Raimondo. "Thanks to the partnership and generosity of CVS Health, we will be able to double our testing capacity and provide on-the-spot results to thousands of Rhode Islanders each day. Making testing rapid and readily available is the key to slowly reopening our economy, and today we are one step closer to that goal."

Rhode Island and Georgia are the only two states in the country to be launching this new partnership today. They will be utilizing licensed health care providers from MinuteClinic, CVS's retail medical clinic, to oversee the testing at no cost to patients.

The Abbott ID NOW™ COVID-19 test is the fastest available molecular point-of-care test. The test can deliver positive results in as little as five minutes and negative results in as little as 13 minutes.

"CVS Health is uniquely positioned to play a vital role in helping support both local communities and the overall health care system in addressing the COVID-19 pandemic," said Troyen A. Brennan, M.D., M.P.H, Executive Vice President and Chief Medical Officer, CVS Health. "Our ability to help coordinate the availability of rapid COVID-19 testing for Rhode Island citizens will bolster the state's efforts to manage the spread of the virus and provide people with on-the-spot test results."

As Rhode Island has dramatically ramped up its testing capacity, Governor Raimondo announced last week that tests are now available for all Rhode Islanders, rather than being reserved for healthcare workers. With the Twin River testing location coming online today, Rhode Island will be performing approximately 2,000 tests per day. Anyone looking to receive a test at this site can sign up here: https://www.cvs.com/minuteclinic/covid-19- testing [r20.rs6.net].

DEM April 6, 2020

TROUT FISHING SEASON NOW OPEN IN RHODE ISLAND WITH SYSTEM THAT STAGGERS THE DAYS WHEN PEOPLE CAN FISH IN ORDER TO REDUCE CROWDS IN LINE WITH PUBLIC HEALTH GUIDANCE Ponds in State Parks and some other stocked waters off limits

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) announces that certain Rhode Island lakes, ponds, rivers and streams that allow anglers to adhere to social distancing rules are now open to fish for trout. While freshwater fishing is open year-round for other species, trout were stocked by DEM earlier this year in preparing for a special trout season that opens traditionally on the second Saturday in April. DEM today adopted an emergency regulation opening the freshwater fishing season early this year with new measures in order to eliminate the large crowds that often accompany the traditional Opening Day of trout fishing season in April.

"Everything about our normal routines has been upended by COVID-19, and we are asking people to take special care to respect a new system this year so that all anglers may safely fish for trout," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "The reason we are opening early on a Monday and imposing a system designed to reduce fishing activity by half is so that we can open at all. In light of the risks and restrictions associated with the coronavirus, we had to design a new approach to trout fishing this spring. We hope that people will appreciate the opportunity to fish during a difficult time and allow us to keep trout season going by respecting the rules."

To reduce the number of people fishing at any given time and mitigate crowds during the COVID-19 public health crisis, DEM has implemented a system that staggers the days when licensed anglers can fish. Those with last names beginning with A through M can only fish on even numbered calendar days, and those with last names beginning with N through Z can only fish on odd numbered calendar days. DEM will also impose parking restrictions during the first two weekends of the fishing season and has removed porta-johns from fishing sites as a public health measure. DEM environmental police officers and DEM staff will be present at fishing locations to assist licensed anglers, answer questions, and monitor fishing spots for compliance, and the Department may adjust the fishing season if necessary.

During the COVID-19 public health emergency, fishing should be enjoyed as a solitary experience, with just the members of your immediate household, and not as a group activity. Anglers must follow social distancing practices and maintain a distance of at least six feet from others and in groupings of no more than five persons. If you arrive at a favorite fishing spot and find that crowds are forming or the parking lot is full, please leave and choose a different location or return at another time or day. DEM will keep updating information to guide people and will post this information at www.dem.ri.gov/fishing. And, since State Parks are temporarily closed due to COVID-19, ponds in the major parks - such as Olney Pond in Lincoln Woods, Peck Pond in Pulaski Park, and Meshanticut Park Pond in Cranston - will not be opened until later this season.

"While it may seem strange to some that DEM is allowing fishing during a time of crisis, we feel we can offer this opportunity to enjoy a traditional pastime while meeting health guidance," said Director Janet Coit. "DEM staff will be out monitoring the next few days and weeks, and we will coordinate closely with the Rhode Island Department of Health experts to make adjustments as needed to maintain a safe atmosphere."

DEM's Division of Fish and Wildlife is only stocking trout in larger waterbodies and locations that allow anglers to adhere to social distancing rules. This year, approximately 54,000 rainbow, brook, golden and brown trout are being stocked. Smaller waterbodies, including children-only fishing ponds, are not being stocked. Restocking will occur, but stocking locations will not be announced in advance to minimize crowds. For the safety of Fish and Wildlife staff, people should not approach staff while they are stocking fish. Visit DEM's website for an up-to-date list of trout stocking locations. These locations may change, and do not include ponds in certain state parks and in children-only fishing ponds as they tend to be areas that attract crowds. For a list of non-stocked ponds, visit DEM's website.

This year, the Golden Trout promotion will be extended. Anglers will have until September 1st to send in their photos to qualify for a golden trout pin. The list of ponds is posted at fishing locations, www.dem.ri.gov, and www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM.

A 2020 fishing license is required for anglers 15 years of age and older. A Trout Conservation Stamp is also required of anyone wishing to keep or possess a trout or to fish in a catch-and-release or "fly-fishing only" area. Trout Stamps are not required for persons possessing trout taken from a lake or pond that shares a border with Rhode Island, such as Beach Pond or Wallum Lake. Fishing licenses can only be purchased online at www.dem.ri.gov/huntfish.

License fees are $18 for Rhode Island residents and current members of the Armed Forces, $33 for a combination hunting and fishing license, $35 for non- residents, and $16 for a tourist three-consecutive-day license. Licenses are free for anglers over 65 (Trout Stamp not required) - as well as for those with a 100-percent disability. It is important to note that during the current stay at home order, out-of-state anglers should fish in their local state and are not allowed to drive into RI to fish for the time being.

The daily creel and possession limit for trout is five from April 6, 2020, through November 30, 2020, and two from December 1, 2020, through February 28, 2021. The use of external felt-soled or any natural or synthetic porous material capable of absorbing water in any freshwaters in Rhode Island is strictly prohibited. This includes any waters shared with adjacent states in which Rhode Island fishing regulations apply. For more information on preventing the spread of aquatic invasive species, which can be transported in felt soles or other porous materials, click here. Prohibited is the transport of any plant or plant part into or out of any Rhode Island waterbody on boats, vessels or other water conveyances, vehicles, trailers, fishing supplies, or any other equipment, with the exception of authorized research activities, species identification and other management activities. Anglers must follow these guidelines during the COVID-19 public health crisis as follows: Do not visit lakes, ponds or other fishing areas if you feel ill or are exhibiting symptoms of illness. Plan a trip to a nearby fishing area for a short, local visit since restroom facilities are not available. Maintain a minimum distance of 6 feet between persons. Do not gather in groups of more than 5 people. Follow CDC's guidance on personal hygiene prior to and during your fishing trip. Wash your hands, carry hand sanitizer, cover your mouth and nose when coughing or sneezing, and avoid surfaces that are touched often.

For more information and Frequently Asked Questions about the fishing season, visit DEM's website. State law requires that boaters always have personal flotation devices for each person, and that they do not drink and operate a boat. Boaters should also be sure their craft is seaworthy before going out on the state's waterways. For more information on Rhode Island boating laws, click here.

DEM urges anglers to avoid fishing areas if they are crowded and encourages them to visit less popular fishing areas to help avoid crowding. Anglers must maintain social distancing while fishing at ponds, lakes, streams and rivers. It may be helpful for anglers to bookmark our interactive map of fishing sites on their phonesbefore heading out to fish.

As part of a larger network of recreational opportunities in the state, fishing plays an important role in connecting people with nature, promoting health, and attracting tourism. People fish for food as well as fun, and they enjoy the flavor and benefit from the protein provided by trout. Freshwater anglers purchase approximately 40,000 fishing licenses and trout stamps each year and contribute more than $518 million to Rhode Island's economy. Revenue generated from license and permit sales support Rhode Island fisheries conservation programs. A critical source of funding, these monies are leveraged to match federal Sport Fish Restoration Program dollars that support outdoor recreational opportunities for fishing and boating in Rhode Island. Programs include raising fish at several DEM hatcheries and stocking local waterways to support recreational fishing.

DEM also reminds Rhode Islanders to take precautions while outdoors to avoid direct contact with ticks that can transmit Lyme Disease and other diseases as follows: Avoid wooded and brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter Walk in the center of trails Remember the three "Tick Free Rhode Island" tips: Repel ticks (use repellent with 20-30% DEET or other EPA- approved repellents on skin and permethrin on clothing/shoes) Check for ticks on yourself, children, and pets Remove ticks properly as soon as possible For more detailed information and videos, visit health.ri.gov/ticks and tickencounter.org

DEM advises everyone to follow guidance about COVID-19 from Governor Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health. More information about COVID-19 and Rhode Island's response can be found here: https://health.ri.gov/diseases/ncov2019/

For information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates. ###

Governor Gina M. Raimondo

For: Immediate release Date: April 5, 2020 Contacts: Joseph Wendelken (401-378-0704)

Governor Provides Update on State's Response to COVID-19

Governor Gina M. Raimondo provided an update today on Rhode Island's response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis. While reiterating the importance of social distancing in big box retail stores, she asked that Rhode Islanders who see individuals or businesses failing to comply report their concerns to the Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation.

COVID-19 Data Update The Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) announced today that Rhode Island has 116 new cases of COVID-19. This brings Rhode Island's count to 922. RIDOH also announced eight additional COVID-19 associated fatalities. These people ranged in age from their 60s to their 90s. Of these eight people, seven were nursing home residents. Rhode Island's number of COVID-19 associated fatalities is now 25. A full data summary for Rhode Island is posted online.

Key messages for the public

Anyone who is sick should stay home and self-isolate (unless going out for testing or healthcare). The people who live with that person and who have been in direct close contact with that person should self-quarantine for 14 days. Direct close contact means being within approximately 6 feet of a person for a prolonged period. Help is available for people living in quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19. Visit www.RIDelivers.com for connections to groceries, home supplies, restaurants, and mutual aid groups. People can also call 2-1-1. Groups of more than five people should not be gathering. Always avoid close personal contact with other people in public. Healthcare workers should not be going to work if they are sick (even with mild symptoms). People who think they have COVID-19 should call their healthcare provider. Do not go directly to a healthcare facility without first calling a healthcare provider (unless you are experiencing a medical emergency). People with general, non-medical questions about COVID-19 can visit www.health.ri.gov/covid, write to [email protected], or call 401-222-8022. This is the COVID-19 Hotline that RIDOH has available to the public. Everyone can help stop the spread of viruses in Rhode Island.

Get your flu shot, and make sure the people around you do the same. Wash your hands often throughout the day. Use warm water and soap. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. Cough or sneeze into your elbow. Stay home and do not leave your house if you are sick, unless it is for emergency medical care. Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.

For: Immediate release Date: April 4, 2020 Contacts: Joseph Wendelken (401-378-0704)

Governor, Dr. Alexander-Scott Provide Updates on COVID-19 Data, Testing

Governor Gina M. Raimondo and Nicole Alexander-Scott, MD, MPH, the Director of the Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) provided an update today on the state's response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) crisis.

All Rhode Islanders who have symptoms of COVID-19 are urged to call a healthcare provider to coordinate a test. The symptoms of COVID-19 include any of these symptoms: fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches (myalgias), chills, runny nose or stuffy nose, sore throat, headache, or diarrhea. COVID-19 testing in Rhode Island had previously been limited to the members of certain priority populations who are more vulnerable to complications from COVID-19 or who are members of Rhode Island's critical infrastructure workforce.

The Governor also announced that starting tonight the State House will be lit red for the next week to honor the first responders on the frontlines of this crisis.

COVID-19 Data Update Dr. Alexander-Scott announced today that Rhode Island has 97 new cases of COVID-19. This brings Rhode Island's count to 806. Dr. Alexander-Scott also announced three additional COVID-19 associated fatalities. Two individuals were in their 80s, and one was in their 90s. One of these individuals was a nursing home resident. That brings Rhode Island's number of fatalities to 17. A full data summary for Rhode Island is posted online.

Key messages for the public Anyone who is sick should stay home and self-isolate (unless going out for testing or healthcare). The people who live with that person and who have been in direct close contact with that person should self-quarantine for 14 days. Direct close contact means being within approximately 6 feet of a person for a prolonged period. Help is available for people living in quarantine or isolation due to COVID-19. Visit www.RIDelivers.com for connections to groceries, home supplies, restaurants, and mutual aid groups. People can also call 2-1-1.

Groups of more than five people should not be gathering. Always avoid close personal contact with other people in public. Healthcare workers should not be going to work if they are sick (even with mild symptoms). People who think they have COVID-19 should call their healthcare provider. Do not go directly to a healthcare facility without first calling a healthcare provider (unless you are experiencing a medical emergency). People with general, non-medical questions about COVID-19 can visit www.health.ri.gov/covid, write to [email protected], or call 401-222-8022. This is the COVID-19 Hotline that RIDOH has available to the public.

Everyone can help stop the spread of viruses in Rhode Island.

o Get your flu shot, and make sure the people around you do the same. o Wash your hands often throughout the day. Use warm water and soap. If soap and water are not available, use hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol. o Cough or sneeze into your elbow. o Stay home and do not leave your house if you are sick, unless it is for emergency medical care. o Avoid touching your eyes, nose, or mouth. Germs spread this way.

April 3, 2020

RHODE ISLAND DEPARTMENT OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT

RHODE ISLAND STATE PARKS AND BEACHES ARE CLOSED DUE TO COVID-19 EMERGENCY Opening of state campgrounds delayed until at least May 1st

PROVIDENCE - The Department of Environmental Management (DEM) reminds Rhode Islanders that state parks, beaches and campgrounds are closed due to the COVID-19 public health crisis.

"Restricting access to public places where any groups might gather, such as parks and beaches, is a necessary step we're taking to protect public health," said DEM Director Janet Coit. "During this critical time when we all must practice social distancing, I encourage Rhode Islanders to enjoy the outdoors close to home by taking a walk around the block or spending time in their backyards and to respect the closure and stay away from state parks and beaches."

DEM asks the public not to drive to parks and beaches. The entrances are blocked, there is no public parking, and these facilities are closed to vehicular traffic. DEM is not prohibiting Rhode Islanders from walking or riding bikes at parks and beaches if they are not congregated in groups of five or more and are adhering to social/physical distancing rules to prevent the spread of COVID-19. DEM will be patrolling these sites and dispersing groups of people.

Parks and Beaches The following state parks are closed: , Jamestown Black Regiment Monument, Portsmouth , Newport , Charlestown Cocumcussoc Park, North Kingstown , Bristol Fisherman's Memorial State Park, Narragansett State Park, Newport State Park, Jamestown George State Park, Glocester Goddard Memorial State Park, Warwick Haines Memorial State Park, East Providence John H. Chafee Nature Preserve, North Kingstown J.L. Curran State Park, Cranston Lehigh High Grove, Portsmouth , Lincoln Meshanticut State Park, Cranston Ninigret Conservation Area, Charlestown , Glocester Purgatory Chasm, Middletown , Johnston Rocky Point, Warwick

The following state beaches area closed: Charlestown Breachway, Charlestown Ninigret Conservation Area, Charlestown East Beach, Charlestown East Matunuck State Beach, South Kingstown , Westerly , Narragansett Scarborough North Beach, Narragansett Scarborough South Beach, Narragansett Roger W. Wheeler State Beach, Narragansett

State Campgrounds The opening of state campgrounds is delayed until at least May 1st in order to protect the health and safety of visitors and staff during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Rhode Island's five state campgrounds were originally scheduled to open in early-mid April. All campground reservations through April 30 have been cancelled. The state's reservation agent, Reserve America, is contacting those with reservations during this period with information about the cancellations and refunds.

The following state campgrounds and camping areas are closed: Burlingame State Campground, Charlestown Charlestown Breachway, Charlestown East Beach Campground, Charlestown Fishermen's Memorial State Park and Campground, Narragansett George Washington State Campground, Glocester (Frosty Hollow shelter, backpack camping area, and horseman's campground), Exeter

Camping without permits and outside designated camping areas on all state lands is prohibited.

Bike Paths For now, the DEM-managed bike paths - the Blackstone River Bikeway, the , Washington Secondary Bike Path - and the state management areas will remain open. This is a situation that DEM will be monitoring very closely. We ask that people avoid these bike paths if they are crowded and find an alternate place to ride close to home.

Anyone using the bike paths must practice proper social distancing on the path, providing at least six feet of space between you and other users. This includes anticipating others on the path and stepping off the path onto the shoulder if necessary. Bike path users can avoid crowds by planning their trip in the morning or late afternoon as the bike paths are busiest in the middle of the day.

Also, those who are ill should not be using the bike path and instead remain at home. For bike safely tips/rules of the road, visit RIDOT's website at: http://www.dot.ri.gov/community/bikeri/

Wildlife Management Areas State management areas remain open for the time being, but this is a situation that DEM will be monitoring very closely. People should avoid trails if they are crowded and maintain social distancing on all trails. We ask all Rhode Islanders to abide by local and state stay-at-home orders, and limit travel whenever possible, even for approved recreation activities. If you do go to a refuge, preserve, management area or other open spaces, and see that parking is limited or lots are full, you should change your plans and take your walk back home.

Outdoor Safety There are many ways for residents to safely enjoy the outdoors, as long as they take the necessary precautions by adhering to the Governor's guidance on not gathering in groups of more than five and practicing social distancing. For details on safety guidelines, visit https://health.ri.gov/diseases/ncov2019/

DEM Environmental Police Officers and DEM Parks' staff will continue to monitor state parks and beaches for compliance. If people are blatantly ignoring the new rules - if they choose to congregate at state parks and beaches, or if they're not complying with the physical distancing rules - they may be cited if actions and behavior are not corrected.

In order to determine the opening dates for recreational facilities including parks, beaches and campgrounds, DEM will continue to work closely with the Governor and Dr. Alexander-Scott and her team at the Rhode Island Department of Health for guidance on this issue. In the meantime, DEM will continue with our preparations for getting our parks and beaches ready later this year.

DEM advises everyone to follow guidance about COVID-19 from Governor Raimondo and the Rhode Island Department of Health. More information about COVID-19 and Rhode Island's response can be found here: https://health.ri.gov/diseases/ncov2019/

For a list of Frequently Asked Questions and updates on the DEM closures, visit http://riparks.com/covid19.php

For information on DEM programs and initiatives, visit www.dem.ri.gov. Follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/RhodeIslandDEM or on Twitter (@RhodeIslandDEM) for timely updates.

FEDERAL NOTICES BELOW Congressman Jim Langevin

April 5, 2020 Dear Friends, The last few weeks have begun a public health crisis the likes of which few of us have experienced in our lifetimes. I have remained hopeful because of the way Rhode Islanders have come together to handle the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, help each other, and keep our communities moving forward. You are doing your part - and as your representative I have been working hard to provide immediate help during this difficult period. With significant social distancing orders in place and weekly unemployment claims hitting record highs, we find ourselves at a critical point. In these unprecedented times, the CARES Act, which passed the House last Friday, is the unprecedented response we need to help the families, workers and small businesses that have been hit the hardest. This "Phase III" legislation provides more than $2 trillion in relief, including financial assistance to people with one- time payments of $1,200 per adult and $500 per child. It supports local public health operations by providing $100 million for hospitals and other healthcare organizations and $150 billion in state aid, including $1.25 billion for Rhode Island. It also helps small businesses and nonprofits weather the economic downturn by backing $350 billion in forgivable loans to allow them to make payroll and pay rent. For workers, it includes a $600 a week boost to unemployment insurance benefits for four months and a temporary unemployment insurance program for part-time, self-employed and other non-traditional workers. Earlier in March, the House passed "Phase II," the Families First Coronavirus Reponses Act. The bill was the product of bipartisan negotiations and cleared the way for drastic action to protect families' health and financial wellbeing by providing free testing and paid sick leave for those who need it, extending important family and medical leave benefits, and tackling food insecurity as more communities began implementing necessary preventive public health measures like school closures, quarantines, and social distancing. Keeping Americans safe has been the top priority since the early developments of this crisis. As the scale of this threat became apparent in early March, the House worked quickly to pass an $8.3 billion funding package to help bolster preparedness and response efforts that included at least $5.4 million for Rhode Island. The "Phase I" package prioritized funding for research and development of vaccines and therapeutics for the virus, crucial support to help the operations of state and local health agencies, and an initial $7 billion for low-interest loans for small business support. I know that many Rhode Islanders are struggling because of the turmoil created by the COVID-19 outbreak, and they need assistance now. I remain committed to helping however I can. In addition to our work on critical legislation, my office has compiled a list of helpful resources:

Coronavirus (COVID-19) Medical Information from the Rhode Island Department of Health Executive Oder Guidance and Information for Rhode Island Residents, Travelers, and Businesses Rhode Island COVID-19 Health Benefit Changes Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training Workplace, Unemployment Support Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) Increases and Recertification Changes "Grab and Go" Food Sites for Youth Healthy Aging Food and Nutrition Information for Older Rhode Islanders SBA Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources Rhode Island Department of Business Regulation Updates United Way of Rhode Island 2-1-1 Help Line

I will also host another live Telephone Town Hall on Monday, April 6, at 7:00pm. The town hall will focus on what we are doing to keep communities safe from coronavirus and what resources are available to those in need. If you would like to participate, call 855-962-1080 at 6:55pm to join the discussion. Please remember to continue following guidance from medical professionals like practicing social distancing, frequently washing your hands, and staying home to be safe and prevent further spread. We will get through this together. Should you have any questions or need further assistance, my office remains open and you can call us during business hours at (401) 732-9400 or email us at any time. Sincerely, Jim Langevin

"OTHER" NOTICES BELOW

Click here for link to Health Homes Community Resource Guide (82 pages).