What do lockdowns, state of emergencies, positivity rates, and poetry all have in common? They all revolve around COVID-19, and they all are featured in today’s Bwoglines.

Happening in the World: Parts of France are set to go into a month-long COVID-19 lockdown, given the likely chance of a third wave. However, the lockdown will not be as strict as a previous lockdown, as citizens will be allowed to exercise outdoors. Such a measure will force non-essential businesses to close but permit schools and hairdressers to remain open—so long as they follow protocol. Traveling into other parts of the country will be prohibited, unless necessary, in which case citizens would need to explain the reason for travel via a form. More information on which sorts of businesses can remain open will be forthcoming. (BBC)

Happening in the US: The city of Miami Beach has declared a state of emergency over the influx of spring breakers coming to South Florida. Mayor Dan Gelber instituted an 8 pm curfew for the South Beach entertainment district and declared that shore-bound traffic on the city’s causeways would be shuttered. The measures will be in effect for at least 72 hours, given the continued increase in COVID-19 cases. (NBC) 

Happening in NYC: On Saturday, Governor Andrew Cuomo revealed that a quarter of all New Yorkers have received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine. Additionally, 13% of all residents have been vaccinated. However, while the state of New York reports a 3.26% seven-day average positivity rate, the city itself experiences a 7.82% seven-day average, according to Mayor Bill de Blasio. New Yorkers alike must continue to mask up and make sure to take the first vaccine available. (Gothamist) 

Happening in the community: At 10:30 this morning, the Earth Institute will host the kickoff event of the Global Vaccine Poem project. This project gives poets (new and experienced alike) a chance to submit poems promoting COVID-19 vaccinations, whatever that may look like. Specifically, the event later today will feature acclaimed poets such as Naomi Shihab Nye, Jane Hirshfield, Ethelbert Miller, Danusha Laméris, and Jacqueline Saphra. Learn more here. 

Opening line of the week: “Miss Brooke had that kind of beauty which seems to be thrown into relief by poor dress.” – George Eliot, Middlemarch

Miami Beach aka where you should not go to party right now via Flickr