Things may be all COVID-19 all the time, but there are still some bright moments, like, uh, Belarusian soccer?

Happening in the world: While practically every other major sporting league in the world has ground to an abrupt halt, the Belarusian Premier League is just now getting into full swing. The decision to allow the matches to continue—with semi-masked crowds in attendance—has attracted international attention, both for the “throwing caution to the wind” attitude of the league and the fact that it is some of the only professional live soccer still available to watch. Ten countries whose own leagues are suspended now have broadcasting deals with the Belarusian league in an attempt to provide live sports entertainment. As of today, Belarus has fewer than 100 confirmed cases. (BBC)

Happening in the US: There are increasing signs that social distancing and other containment measures are having a tangible effect on COVID-19’s spread in Seattle, where hospitals are still not yet overrun and the death rate appears to be slowing. Local officials emphasize that the crisis in the city is far from over, but the improvement is still considerably heartening as more and more of the country follows suit with harsh measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. (NYT)

Happening in NYC: Volunteers could be seen yesterday setting up tents for an emergency field hospital in Central Park. The hospital, which will be equipped for respiratory care, is being organized by the Christian organization Samaritan’s Purse. The first patients are expected to fill the tents soon, which will act as an overflow for Mount Sinai hospitals in the boroughs. (Gothamist)

How to start your week: Video call a friend and heckle them until they come up with a story about something good they have done in the past week. Look out your window and do your best to find some kind of nature to stare at for ten minutes, like a housecat would do, or maybe someone in the Olden Times.

Image via Pixabay