Afternoon News Update, 2/12/21

By Stephen Leverton

In community news, The Appalachian reports that two App State students created a mobile app called the Ride Beep App. Sophomores Ian Murphy and Banks Nussman created the app in hopes to replace the Facebook Beeper group that already exists. Similar to Uber or Lyft, the Ride Beep App is designed to help provide rides for students who need one. Due to COVID concerns, the app also includes a feature to require riders to wear a mask.

In state news, Citizen Times reports that North Carolina teachers can start receiving the COVID-19 vaccine as soon as February 24th. Governor Cooper announced the expansion of eligibility on February 10th. Other essential frontline workers will get the vaccine starting on March 10th. Cooper’s announcement reinforces his plan to move schools back to in-person learning as soon as possible.

In national news, USA Today reports that the Biden Administration has announced that the US will receive 200 million more COVID doses by the end of July. Companies Pfezer and Moderna will have 100 million doses ready by July, with another 100 million ready by May. In between now and when the vaccine gets distributed to everyone, remember to wash your hands, wear a mask, and stay at least six feet away from others.