Shafter sees 10% spike in new covid cases

Shafter saw 47 new cases of covid-19 in the last week, which is an increase of about 10 percent over the week before. With most of the businesses in town following the safety precautions set by the Kern County Public Health Department and the city launching a campaign urging residents to wear masks when shopping or going downtown, Shafter had seen its fight against the virus take a turn for the better until last week.

Shafter has now had 1,147 confirmed cases since the pandemic began, while Wasco has almost 200 more confirmed cases, with a total of 1342.

Meanwhile, the 3rd of July fireworks that were rescheduled for this past weekend was canceled. There will not be a fireworks show until July 2021.

Shafter, partnering with Houchin Blood Bank, is holding a blood drive on Thursday, Sept. 10, from 3p.m. to 7 p.m. at Mannel Park. The drive is focused on students, but adults are also welcome. Each student who donates will receive a limited edition "No Pandemic Can Stop Us" T-shirt and will be entered into a drawing for a $250 gift card. Students who are 16 years old must have a signed parental consent form. Please bring a picture ID with your date of birth.

Barber shops, hair salons and other non-essential businesses are now open with safety guidelines in place, such as wearing a mask, as well as social distancing. Restaurants are still restricted to offering take-out service and outdoor dining.