Minneapolis’ police officers and firefighters deserve a “significant portion” of emergency federal COVID-19 aid, union officials said, arguing that an infusion of potentially millions of dollars is needed to avoid cutbacks or layoffs. In a letter to lawmakers, the unions made their pitch for a bigger cut of funding under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security, or CARES, Act — with Minnesota receiving $2.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: Star Tribune

The opioid epidemic is getting worse, and the COVID-19 pandemic could be to blame. For many folks who may be struggling, times of social isolation drive feelings of stress, anxiety and depression, and drug abusers use opioids to relieve this stress. Sara Goldsby, the director of the South Carolina Department of Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse Services, says they have seen about a 30% increase in EMS response to overdose in the last few months.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: WRDW-TV CBS 12 Augusta

VIDEO: One artist is using his talent to create a reimagined version of iconic American images to honor essential workers amid the coronavirus pandemic. Scott LoBaido is popular for his murals of the American flag across the country. For more than 25 years, he's painted renditions of the flag on police stations, homes, cars, veterans buildings and more in all 50 states.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

Prospective firefighters for the state Department of Natural Resources must complete a 3-mile course in 45 minutes – while wearing a 45-pound pack. But there’s good news for those who passed last year’s test: They don’t have to do it again. Because of social distancing guidelines due to COVID-19, only new recruits must take the test this year.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: The Spokesman-Review - Metered Site

A ceiling at an Auburn Safeway store partially collapsed Thursday morning. The collapse happened in a stockroom and no one was hurt. Valley Regional Fire said it happened at the store at 101 Auburn Way South. Crews said the collapsed area is about 10 feet by 50 feet. Fire officials said the building was evacuated and sealed off.
- PUB DATE: 5/14/2020 12:00:00 AM - SOURCE: KIRO-TV CBS 7 Seattle