SUMMER IN THE TIME OF COVID-19

Right now, even though we are longing to unplug, relax and enjoy these long summer days, it’s hard to avoid the explosion of COVID-19 throughout the country. America has always been a union of many states which vary wildly in their personalities and approaches to problems. Let’s just say that some of those differences are being highlighted in the current situation and we thought it would be interesting to list some of them. So in the name of variety and friendly state rivalry, here are some surprising and not so surprising facts of how states are handling it all and some interesting stats and facts about the country overall. We thought since this topic is getting so much coverage we would do our best to give you a statistical breakdown and also shine a light on how to still enjoy the beach this summer and even one of the upsides to all this social distancing – the return of the Drive-In movie. Let’s start with some stats and facts.

As of 7/7/20 – 

• The USA has the highest number of reported cases and deaths of any country, followed by Brazil, India, Russia and Peru.
• New York has the highest number of reported cases (402k) and deaths (32k) of any state, followed by California, Florida, Texas and New Jersey.
• New York City has the highest number of reported cases (222k) and deaths (23k) of any city, followed by Los Angeles, Miami, Houston and Dallas.
• In some states such as Pennsylvania, Oregon, Massachusetts, Colorado and Utah, more than 50% of deaths are associated with long term care facilities.
• The states with the fewest COVID restrictions are headed by South Dakota, followed by Wisconsin, Utah, Wyoming and Oklahoma.
• The states with the most COVID restrictions currently are headed by California, followed by Colorado, Hawaii, New Jersey and New Mexico. 
• South Carolina, North Dakota, Mississippi, Alabama and Arizona have the highest death rates compared to fewest restrictions.
• Vermont, West Virginia, Oregon, Hawaii and Maine have the lowest death rates compared to highest restrictions.
• Only seven states – Arkansas, Iowa, Nebraska, North Dakota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming – did not issue orders directing residents to stay at home from nonessential activities in March and April 2020.
• The highest testing rates are in Louisiana, Connecticut, New York, New Mexico and Alaska.
• The highest positive results per testing are in Arizona, Florida, South Carolina, Mississippi and Texas.

Here is a state by state guide to what is open, closed, re-opened and everything in between. 

Despite the outbreak, people are still heading to the beach and here’s the rundown on how you can do it safely.

All the studies show that going to the beach is a low-risk activity when it comes to COVID acquisition and transmission. The CDC has confirmed that the vast majority occurs person to person when people are within 6 feet of each other and the virus is carried by respiratory droplets. In addition, there is no firm evidence that the virus can be transmitted by water, and even if theoretically possible, it is highly unlikely. Furthermore, it is also likely that the high salt content of seawater would kill the virus, although research is still ongoing. As an added precaution, we should always observe social distancing guidelines in and out of the water where possible. 

Despite this, many state beaches remain closed so check locally for the current restrictions. 

And lastly, here’s a look at a retro throw-back – the drive-in movie. At least it’s one thing that can make your summer nights a little more special!

One of the bright spots in this whole situation has been the return of a venerable American institution – the drive-in movie theatre. Drive-in movies have been around since 1910 and patented in 1933. Drive-ins gained immense popularity 20 years later during the 1950s and ‘60s with the Baby Boomer generation and at one stage there were over 4,000 in the country. This number had declined to just over 300 last year. 

COVID-19 has caused a renewed interest in the drive-in as it has become a safe haven for people to get out of the house for an evening, while still adhering to social distancing guidelines. Getting a ticket now is even becoming a challenge. For example, alfresco shows at Astoria’s Bel Aire Diner are sold out almost every night, with room for only 45 cars in the Queens parking lot. There are even plans in the works for a five-screen drive-in complex in Florida. Yankee Stadium has gotten in on the trend, with Bronx Night Market and Bronx Beer Festival organizer MASC Hospitality Group announcing an “Uptown Drive-in Experience” to take place at the sports field this summer.

Summer fun is still happening during the global pandemic and we hope, whatever you choose to do, you stay safe and healthy!