The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and the state of California both released new guidelines for businesses as a result of coronavirus, including closure of some non-essential businesses like bars and movie theaters.
Governor Gavin Newsom issued an executive order Monday authorizing local governments to pass legislation that would halt evictions for renters and homeowners and slow foreclosures, and to protect residents affected by COVID-19 against utility shutoffs.
My goal with this video is to give viewers a sense of life in Claremont, all photographed on Wednesday, March 18. Now that more businesses of closed, restaurants like Walter's remain open for takeout, just don't expect a sit down meal. Walk the streets and there is some activity. Just don't expect it to look like the Claremont Village you know. As Claremont almost grinds to a halt, it's good to see so many residents taking social distancing seriously...even outdoors at parks around the city. Be aware the COURIER is publishing a print edition every Friday, with more local information. Please be careful out there. —PW
With new state restrictions regarding operating during the coronavirus pandemic, Claremont business owners and employees are scrambling to figure out how to make ends meet. The state of California has programs in place to help the business community ride out the challenges.
Editor’s note: This is a March 13 email sent to a Claremonter from a friend living in Italy right now. Italy is considered one of the hardest hit areas in the world with the coronavirus.
Let me start by saying things are not good here. Despite what the news media might be reporting or the skeptics might be blogging about, Italy is in dire straits. When the Prime Minister addressed the nation two nights ago, he spoke five words that have driven fear into the strongest of us optimists.
“We are out of time!” is exactly what he said when he announced a nationwide lockdown.
With grocery store shelves empty with essentials most of the day, it's only natural to worry about availability. But if you shop early, maybe even wait in line before the store opens, you will be able to get the supplies you need. Yes, even toilet paper and paper towels. Claremont has experienced calm, patient shoppers as we all try to adapt to social distancing during this health crisis. At Vons Thursday morning, there was a dash to certain items that sold out quickly, but the shelves are restocked every day. COURIER photo/Matt Weinberger
Program specialist at the Blaisdell Senior Center, Teresa Luce, hands out boxed lunches to seniors on Wednesday at the Joslyn Senior Center in Claremont. The City of Claremont closed both Blaisdell and Joslyn centers last week, which suspended the senior meal program at both locations. The city then transitioned into drive in meal distribution on Mondays and Wednesdays beginning at 11 a.m. at Joslyn. COURIER photo/Steven Felschundneff
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health confirmed 46 new cases of COVID-19 Wednesday, bringing the county total to 190 people infected with the virus. Because there are positive cases across the entire county, the county emphasizes that the public should not think one location is safer than the other.
Many local restaurants have closed in the wake of COVID-19, the coronavirus, but a number of local restaurants are offering pick up orders and a few have launched delivery service to Claremonters.
Walter’s Restaurant began $5 direct delivery to Claremont residents Monday, and for all orders over $50, delivery is free.
It’s easy to tell when driving through Claremont something is just not quite right. First of all, it’s cold and rainy, with cold temperatures on tap for the next week. But it seems everything is also very quiet. Fewer cars, less people, and even plenty of parking in the hardest spots in the Village.
There are many business owners who want to remain open, especially those who operate restaurants, ready to prepare takeout orders. But some are closed. This being said, it's critical we remain vigilant in following social distancing guidelines. COURIER photo/Steven Felschundneff
Claremont city council calls special meeting for this Thursday
A special meeting of the Claremont City Council is tentatively scheduled at 2 p.m. on Thursday, March 19. Additionally, city staff says “certain other items with a time-sensitive nature will be placed on this agenda as the March 24, 2020 regular city council meeting will be cancelled.”
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health has confirmed 16 new cases of novel coronavirus (COVID-19), it stated in a press release Sunday. To date, LA County Public Health said it has identified 69 cases total; of these, 10 are likely due to community transmission. Five of the cases confirmed today are hospitalized.
In some ways Claremont looked similar to Saturday because of the college students leaving town. It did feel a lot like a day in May when these students would normally leave. I continued to be surprised how many Village businesses were open. It's critical our community support local whenever we can during this mess. What did change today was the amount of food stocked on grocery store shelves. Staples like milk, bread and cleaning supplies were in short supply. There's still no need to worry, they all will remain open with new deliveries coming. So far Los Angeles County has been lucky, but that can change in an instant. Be careful and try to stay out of group gatherings. —PW
I thought by showing our readers video of popular areas around Claremont, it might give you all a sense of the community impact from the coronavirus—COVID-19—precautions. That being said, the Village remained busy with most stores open, restaurants were serving. Vons, Sprouts and Stater Bros had some long lines, but most everything was in stock other than paper products. It's hard to say what will happen tomorrow, but we will keep our eyes open. —PW
The city has announced more closures due to caution over the coronavirus.
Starting Monday, the city is canceling all recreation classes and facility rentals, as well as closing the Youth Activity Center (YAC) and the Tracks Activity Center (TAC), according to city spokesperson Bevin Handel.
Large gatherings have also been canceled through April 12.
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