On the surface, what they have in common is a body count. 

The coronavirus is on the rise in Memphis and Shelby County, as officials do a full reverse on plans to reopen bars and get restaurants up to full capacity. Deaths so far: More than 200.

The homicide rate in Memphis is also on the rise. According to a recent report, murders are up 30 percent. If the rate doesn't decline, 2020 could end with a record number of homicides. Deaths so far: More than 130.  

New coronavirus cases in Shelby County are straining resources such as testing, hospital capacity and contact tracing.

Earlier this spring and summer, COVID testing sites throughout the county were underutilized—sometimes performing less than half as many daily tests as they could handle. Now, the Shelby County Health Department says most are fully booked. This higher volume has created a problematic backlog.

In June, the Shelby County Schools (SCS) board approved the purchase of 90,000 devices, which will allow students to virtually attend a classroom and continue their education. Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray says the devices are one means “the SCS school system is trying to maintain the health and safety of students and teachers” – the main missions of SCS as they reopen during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Dr. Ray joins this week’s WKNO-TV Behind the Headlines with host Eric Barnes and Daily Memphian reporter Bill Dries. Dr. Ray discusses COVID-19 concerns being raised by teachers and parents (through meetings and surveys) as SCS sets August 10th as the first day back for students. Dr. Ray describes some of the measures that SCS is taking to protect the staff and students, including a mask requirement for anyone on campuses, as well as temperature checks.

In the wake of the recent George Floyd protests, law enforcement agencies nationwide are reconsidering what accountability and transparency means to a community. 

But as the media begin to pore over internal documents connected to race and policing, opacity is slowing down the search for answers.

One recent examination of Memphis Police Department use of force documents found the case of Daniel Jefferson, who shot an undercover police officer in the leg. 

Summertime means stocking up on sunscreen and bug spray. Add hand sanitizer to that list. Here are some tips for a safe summer while dealing with a pandemic.

Shelby County is reviving restrictions on some businesses as the coronavirus spreads at unprecedented levels. New regulations, taking effect Wednesday night, will shutter bars and require restaurants to close by 10 p.m.

Food can still be served at bar seating areas in restaurants, under the new health directive.