April 4, 2020

President Trump Approves Major Disaster Declaration For Arizona

PHOENIX⁠ — Governor Doug Ducey today announced that President Trump in coordination with the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) today approved Arizona’s request for a Presidential Major Disaster Declaration for the state. The declaration makes available additional federal assets and resources to aid Arizona’s COVID-19 response efforts.  Governor Ducey wrote a letter to President Trump on April 1 requesting the disaster declaration.

A congregate meal is a nutritious hot meal provided at least once a day to an eligible participant at a nutrition site, senior center or other group setting. Congregate meal programs provide older adults with positive social contacts with other seniors at the meal sites. Congregate sites may also offer a variety of health-related services such as transportation, health screening, social service referrals, legal assistance, physical and social activities and volunteer opportunities.

The home-delivered meal program provides a nutritious meal to an eligible individual at their residence. Volunteers and paid staff deliver these meals and spend additional time with the individuals, helping to decrease their feelings of isolation. They also check on the individual’s welfare and report any health or other problems noted during their visits.

For more information on congregate meals sites and home-delivered meals, please contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).

Healthcare

A Million American Lives Are Worth Fighting For

Apr 1, 2020

The City of Surprise has partnered with Meals of Joy to deliver meals at no cost to seniors aged 62 and over, as well as individuals 55 and over with a disability. This temporary, federally funded program is designed to help vulnerable residents maintain social distancing due to medical vulnerabilities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Meals of Joy delivers meals that are fresh and ready-to-eat to eligible Surprise residents. Meals include a main dish, a complementing side or vegetables, and a salad, fruit and small dessert. Special dietary restrictions may be accommodated. Each Eligible Participant may have one meal delivered daily Monday – Friday (there may be more than one eligible applicant per address).

Eligibility:

• City of Surprise Resident
• Individuals 55+ with a disability, or 
• Senior 62 and over 
• Each household resident must complete an application

Funding for this program is extremely limited. Applications will be on a first come, first served basis and are available upon request. Eligible residents can receive meal delivery for 30 calendar days, the program may be extended as funding permits.

To request an application, or for questions, please call 623.222.1550 or email neighborhoodservices@surpriseaz.gov

ITALY,

The virus has already infiltrated assisted living facilities across the nation, in what is being dubbed the “silent massacre”.

Hundreds of people in care homes are feared to have succumbed to the disease — over 600 in the hard-hit Bergamo region alone — though firm data are impossible to find, with many victims reportedly going untested, experts say.

They have voiced serious concerns over the safety of the 300,000 or so residents in Italy’s 7,000 care homes.

ARIZONA

What you can and can’t do under Arizona’s stay-at-home order

The stay-at-home order goes into effect Tuesday, March 31, at 5 p.m. and lasts through April 30. Author: Mackenzie Concepcion Published: 5:14 PM MST March 30, 2020 Updated: 5:23 PM MST March 30, 2020

PHOENIX — Gov. Doug Ducey issued a stay-at-home order for Arizonans on Monday after the number of confirmed coronavirus cases topped 1,000 and 20 people died of virus-related complications. 

The order goes into effect Tuesday, March 31, at 5 p.m. and will last until April 30, unless it’s extended. 

RELATED: Gov. Doug Ducey orders Arizona stay-at-home as number of coronavirus cases increases

Here is what that means for you.

What can I leave home for?

Per the executive order, Arizona residents can leave home to:

• Go grocery shopping or pick up prescriptions
• To use any other services or produces provided by essential businesses
• Get equipment needed to work from home
• Seek medical, behavioral health or emergency services
• Care for a family member, friend or pet in another home
• Get outside for some exercise
• Go to work at an essential function
• To work at a non-essential business as long as that business is not open to the public
• Engage in constitutionally protected free speech or religious activities 

If you are leaving home for any reason, you must engage in proper physical distancing. That means you stay at least six feet from other people wherever possible. 

What is considered essential work?

Ducey laid out all the jobs considered “essential” in an executive order last week. It is a long list that includes hospitals, groceries, gas stations and even golf courses, beauty salons (“personal hygiene services”) and more. 

Monday’s stay-at-home order does not change which services are considered essential. Here is the full list.

RELATED: Here are the jobs considered ‘essential services’ in Arizona

Governments at the city and county levels are not allowed to issue proclamations that change what Ducey has designated essential services. 

MORE: Arizona mayors ask Gov. Doug Ducey to issue stay-at-home order in effort to slow spread of coronavirus

How will this be enforced?

Anybody who knowingly violates the executive order is guilty of a class 1 misdemeanor, according to Arizona law. However, the order says that people will be notified and given an opportunity to comply “prior to any enforcement action being taken.”

Nobody will be required to provide documentation proving essential activities while they are away from home, so it is unclear how non-compliance will be determined or what exactly the enforcement mechanism will be, despite what Ducey told reporters Monday. 

What is the difference between ‘stay-at-home’ and ‘shelter-in-place’?

Other states like California have “shelter-in-place” orders in effect. We have a “stay-at-home” order. Both of these terms mean essentially the same thing: Don’t leave your home unless absolutely necessary. 

Ducey said it’s just a matter of semantics. 

“When you use words like ‘shelter in place,’ that’s what happens during a nuclear attack. That’s what happens when there’s an active shooter. We want people to stay at home. It’ll have the same type of effect,” he said. 

No matter what you call it, the directive is not a total lockdown. Grocery stores and pharmacies are still open, and people can leave their homes for some fresh air and exercise as long as they stay six feet apart from each other. 

What counts as an essential business may vary from state to state. For example, beauty salons are closed in several other states with stay-at-home orders. 

How those orders are enforced can also change depending on what state you’re in. 

Can I leave the state?

The federal government can limit interstate travel, but other than a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention travel advisory strongly urging residents of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut to refrain from unnecessary travel, no further restrictions have been imposed. 

Some governors have imposed 14-day quarantines for travelers from other states, but that isn’t the case here in Arizona. 

Can I still move out?

Moving and relocations services are considered essential businesses and remain open, so if you had previously planned to move homes, you can still do that. 

Can I use public transportation?

Public transportation will still run, but the executive order asks people to only use it when absolutely necessary.  Budgeted for Long-Term Care? Ad by Merrill See More

Riders are to remain at least six feet from other riders and from drivers “to the extent possible.”

What about homeless people?

People experiencing homelessness are exempt from the stay-at-home order but are urged to find shelter as soon as possible.

What about other situations?

Hotels, motels and shelters count as homes under the executive order.

Domestic violence survivors may also leave home if it is unsafe and shelter in a different location.

Here is where you can find resources if you or a loved one feels unsafe at home. 

 * The virus is not a living organism, but a protein molecule (DNA) covered by a protective layer of lipid (fat), which, when absorbed by the cells of the ocular, nasal or buccal mucosa, changes their genetic code. (mutation) and convert them into aggressor and multiplier cells.

 * Since the virus is not a living organism but a protein molecule, it is not killed, but decays on its own. The disintegration time depends on the temperature, humidity and type of material where it lies.

 * The virus is very fragile; the only thing that protects it is a thin outer layer of fat. That is why any soap or detergent is the best remedy, because the foam CUTS the FAT (that is why you have to rub so much: for 20 seconds or more, to make a lot of foam).By dissolving the fat layer, the protein molecule disperses and breaks down on its own.

City of Surprise News

Surprise, AZ (March 27, 2020) In an effort to protect public health during the COVID-19 pandemic, public comment options have changed for City Council and Planning and Zoning Commission Meetings and several other public meetings have been canceled until further notice.

What is the name of the disease caused by the coronavirus?

The virus has been named “SARS-CoV-2” and the disease it causes has been named “coronavirus disease 2019” (abbreviated “COVID-19”).

Information about the 100-Day Business and Workforce Recovery Plan is available on the COVID-19 Businesses and Workforce Resources webpage.

Posted on: March 23, 2020

Local nonprofit Benevilla seeking volunteers to assist seniors

Local nonprofit Benevilla is seeking volunteers to help our community’s seniors during this difficult time.

At this time, Benevilla needs immediate assistance with the following volunteer opportunities:

• Grocery shopping: Assist older adults who cannot go to the grocery stores in getting essential everyday items.
• Assisted transportation to medical appointments: Provide safe, friendly, transportation for older adults to and from essential appointments.
• Phone pals: Contact older adults in our community that might be isolated and provide opportunities for companionship.
• Emergency errands: Assist older adults with identified essential errands.

These services can help ease the burden and worries of family members caring for loved ones and ensure older adults with no family support are not left isolated, alone and in need of every day essentials.

“We are strongest when we work together,” says Joanne Thomson, President and CEO of Benevilla. “Now is the time to support those in our community who are vulnerable and need us the most.”

Volunteer applications can be completed at www.Benevilla.org or for more information, call 623-584-4999.

Please call the Senior HELP LINE at 602-264-HELP to find a Home Delivered Meal program in your area or to inquire about funding assistance.

Nursing homes are coronavirus risks. In Arizona, about half have been cited for past infection control issues

Caitlin McGlade and Anne Ryman, Arizona Republic Published 12:01 p.m. MT March 25, 2020 | Updated 12:13 p.m. MT March 25, 2020

Arizona now reports 6 deaths, 329 cases of coronavirus statewide

Passport Services Suspended
Due to COVID-19 (coronavirus) concrens, the Clerk’s Office will be suspending Passport Services indefinitely effective Thursday, March 19th.

Said
Right now, we don’t have any reported cases of COVID-19 in Surprise, and with healthy practices in place, we can help protect each other.

“ADOT has spent years investing in the future Interstate 11 and laying the foundation for this border-to-border highway,” ADOT Director John Halikowski said. “We’re putting the pieces together today for what I-11 will be in the future. These substantial and continuing investments show our commitment to a corridor that is essential for commercial and recreational travel and also to making Arizona a better place to live and work.”

The City of Surprise has closed all playgrounds and amenities at city parks to reduce gatherings of large groups. A 3-year-old boy is recovering in Glendale after he got to an insecure gun and shot himself.

The spring allergy season kicked off early this year, with symptoms such as coughing and sniffling bringing unwanted attention to those affected by the abundance of tree pollen. Find out how symptoms differ between allergies and COVID-19, how to reduce exposure to allergens and more.

Governor Ducey Issues Order Delaying Evictions For Renters Impacted By COVID-19

Surprise, AZ (March 24, 2020) Due to COVID-19 concerns, the Surprise Resource Center is reducing the number of public walk-in hours, while maintaining call-in hours to ensure service to the community.

The Surprise Resource Center is a one-stop-shop for social services. Through strategic partnerships with a growing number of community-based organizations and government agencies, the center offers Surprise residents connections to services that include everything from rent and utility assistance, employment support, food and nutrition resources, and more.

Effective Wednesday, March 25, public walk-in hours are as follows:

Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday: 9:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.

Thursday:  2:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.

Friday: 8:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.

Pacific ADA Center is Open for Business

The Pacific ADA Center is open for business to answer your questions on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), despite the current pandemic. Please call 1-800-949-4232 (V/TTY) or 510-285-5600 (V/TTY) during our regular business hours. You can also email us at adatech@adapacific.org and we will respond the next business day.

Please check our website regularly for updates on the ADA at https://www.adapacific.org.

Surprise, AZ (March 24, 2020) To minimize the potential spread of illness by reducing opportunities to gather, Surprise is closing all city park amenities and facilities effective immediately.

The closure includes: playgrounds, water fountains, basketball courts, pickle ball courts, dog parks, skate park, splash pads, restrooms, and volleyball courts. Ramada and field reservations are not being accepted at this time. 

Please continue to practice social distancing while utilizing walking paths or open space and wash or sanitize your hands frequently. Do not use the parks if you are exhibiting symptoms of illness.  

Additionally, the following parks and recreation facilities remained closed: Countryside Recreation Center, Sierra Montana Recreation Center, Villanueva Recreation Center, Surprise Tennis and Racquet Complex, Surprise Aquatic Center and Hollyhock Pool.

For more information on parks and recreation closures, please contact recreation@surpriseaz.gov or call 623.222.2000.  

Surprise, AZ (March 24, 2020) Cotton Lane will be closed from Waddell to Cactus roads for storm-related roadway repairs today, Tuesday, March 24 through Thursday, March 26. The section of roadway will be milled and repaved.   View a complete list of road restrictions in Surprise at surpriseaz.gov/roadwork.

Fry’s,

A Note to Our Customers About COVID-19

“As America’s grocer, we’re here for our customers and communities when they need us most, with open stores and openhearted hospitality. We believe that everyone deserves to have access to fresh, affordable food and essentials, especially in times of uncertainty. That’s why our teams are working so hard to keep our stores clean, open and stocked. That’s why we took the precautionary step on March 2 to limit the number of cold, flu and sanitary products per order…so everyone can have access to the items they need.” Read More

Surprise, AZ (March 16, 2020) Out of an abundance of caution, and in an effort to protect the health and safety of our employees, residents and visitors, the Council Chambers will be closed to the public during City Council Work Sessions and Regular Meetings until further notice. Public comment will be taken through several technology solutions. 

Surprise, AZ (March 18, 2020) The intersection of Litchfield and Cactus roads will be closed for signal upgrades from 8 p.m. Friday, March 20 to 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21.

Laurel Lane will be closed between Litchfield Road and Rivera Drive on Monday, March 23 for road improvements. The roadway is scheduled to reopen by the end of day on Wednesday, April 1, 2020.

View a complete list of road closures and traffic restrictions at surpriseaz.gov/roadwork.

Surprise, A‌Z (March 19, 2020) In consultation with members of the Surprise City Council, and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor Skip Hall announced a State of Emergency for the city of Surprise today in an effort to preserve public health. 

Surprise, AZ (March 20, 2020) You can have a major impact by helping your neighbors! During our current public health crisis, the need of those in our community is increasing. The city of Surprise is asking our residents to donate some critical items.

Notice is hereby given that the City of Surprise Human Service and Community Vitality Department will hold a public hearing regarding the city’s 2020-2024 Consolidated Plan, Analysis of Impediments to Fair Housing Choice (AI), and the Program Year 2020 Annual Action Plan. 

The public hearing will be held at the regular City Council meeting on April 21, 2020 at 6:00 p.m., at the following location: 
City of Surprise 
City Council Chambers, 
16000 N. Civic Center Plaza 
Surprise, Arizona 85374-7470

Council Chambers will be closed to the public during City Council Meeting. Public comment will be taken by phone and email. The following are instructions for each method of comment:

The city of Surprise is partnering with local businesses to support restaurants impacted by the health pandemic. 

Surprise, AZ (March 23, 2020) Local nonprofit Benevilla is seeking volunteers to help our community’s seniors during this difficult time.   At this time, Benevilla needs immediate assistance with the following volunteer opportunities:   • Grocery shopping: Assist older adults who cannot go to the grocery stores in getting essential everyday items. • Assisted transportation to medical appointments: Provide safe, friendly, transportation for older adults to and from essential appointments. • Phone pals: Contact older adults in our community that might be isolated and provide opportunities for companionship. • Emergency errands: Assist older adults with identified essential errands.   These services can help ease the burden and worries of family members caring for loved ones and ensure older adults with no family support are not left isolated, alone and in need of every day essentials.   “We are strongest when we work together,” says Joanne Thomson, President and CEO of Benevilla. “Now is the time to support those in our community who are vulnerable and need us the most.”   Volunteer applications can be completed at www.Benevilla.org or for more information, call 623-584-4999.

Surprise, A‌Z (March 19, 2020) In consultation with members of the Surprise City Council, and in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Mayor Skip Hall announced a State of Emergency for the city of Surprise today in an effort to preserve public health. 

Effective 5 p.m. this evening, city facilities will be closed to public until further notice. City business will continue to be conducted. Please be assured that core services will not be affected, including fire-medical, police, trash, water and other essential city services. Additionally, the city is suspending all City of Surprise water customer shutoffs through May 10.

After careful consideration, the city of Surprise is canceling or postponing all city-sponsored events, programs, and sports effective March 16 and continuing through May 10.