Afternoon News Update, 2/26/21

By Stephen Leverton

In local news, The Appalachian reports that the Black At App State Collective has introduced a public demand tracker to the university’s administration. This tracker would not only track the progress of the demands that the collective has given the administration, but would also feature a frequently asked questions page. Many within the collective are calling for more transparency from the university regarding treatment of people of color at App State. While the website for the tracker is not online yet, the collective is hopeful that the administration continues to meet their demands to make App State more inclusive.

In state news, The Appalachian reports that Governor Roy Cooper will lift some COVID-19 restrictions on February 26th at 5pm. The 10pm curfew will be lifted and bars, taverns, and restaurants are allowed to serve alcohol until 11pm. Bars and taverns are allowed to be at 30% capacity, with restaurants allowed to open at 50% capacity. Movie theaters and indoor sports arenas are also allowed to be open at 30% capacity. The governor decided to loosen restrictions as a result of a decline in daily COVID cases. Please remember to wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay six feet away from others if you choose to attend public areas.

In national news, CNN reports that the Equality Act passed the US House on February 25th. This act would amend the Civil Rights Act of 1964 to include discrimination protection to people based on sexual orientation and gender identity. The act passed the house with a final vote of 224-206, with Republicans worried about athletes and religious views on the act. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stated yesterday that he intends to have the bill on the senate floor as soon as possible.

And now here’s the sports team with your afternoon sports announcement.

Your Boone weather comes from booneweather.com. Friday’s weather is cloudy with a chance of rain this afternoon. Highs are in the low 40s, lows in the mid 30s.