5 things to know about the coronavirus today: Ohio under state-wide mask order

It is Thursday, July 23, and these are five things for you to know about the coronavirus pandemic today.

Ohio is now under a mask order

In a press briefing on Wednesday, Gov. Mike DeWine announced all Ohioans will be required to wear a face mask while out in public beginning today at 6 p.m. This order applies to those 10 and older, and dictates that residents must wear masks while inside non-residential locations, in outdoor locations where they can’t stay 6 feet apart from others and while waiting for and riding in taxis, ride shares and public transportation.

Free coronavirus testing today in Eaton

A pop-up coronavirus testing event will offer free tests at the Eaton High School, 600 Hillcrest Drive, in Eaton, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Individuals of any age are able to take the test, although minors are required to get the signed consent of a parent or guardian.

Montgomery County is expanding its small business grant program again

Montgomery County previously expanded its program giving grants to small businesses hurt by the coronavirus pandemic by allowing slightly larger businesses to apply. Now, commissioners have opened up the grant program to businesses that have already received other federal assistance.

Dayton region added 10K jobs in June

Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics showed that the Dayton region had one of the largest one-month payroll increases ever as nearly 10,000 new jobs were added, breaking the old record of around 8,000 set in 1998 and tied in May this year. However, local employment remains around 29,000 jobs below pre-pandemic levels and recent layoffs could signal more trouble ahead.

Kettering and Lebanon schools both set strong mask requirements

Both the Kettering and Lebanon school districts have announced that the will require all people inside the schools to wear masks, with some limited exceptions. These changes came after the districts announced less stringent rules in previous weeks, and are now offering parents a chance to change whether to have their students attend classes in person or online.

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