The U.S. Postal Service’s mission to deliver 500 million coronavirus test kits has cast it in an unprecedented role in the nation’s pandemic response just as covid-19 infections have peaked within its own ranks and its network is under immense strain.

Online orders began rolling in this week for the free rapid tests, which are scheduled to ship by the end of the month. The agency has hired thousands of seasonal workers and converted more than 40 facilities into ad hoc fulfillment centers in what experts have called the largest disaster-relief mobilization in its 247-year history.

The stakes for the country — and Postal Service — could hardly be higher. Americans are still struggling to access at-home coronavirus tests as the omicron variant is driving caseloads near record highs in parts of the country.

https://www.washingtonpost.com/business/2022/01/21/usps-coronavirus-test-kits/

Joe Germanotta, the owner of New York City's Joanne Trattoria, is speaking out about the "mixed messages" he feels government officials are sending business owners as COVID-19 continues to trouble the food and beverage industry.

Germanotta, who is the father of pop superstar Lady Gaga, said in an interview with FOX Business this week that the restrictions placed on restaurants are causing business owners like him headaches.

"The restrictions are still checking vaccine cards and IDs, employees have to wear masks and all employees need to be vaccinated so we have to keep that in the book in case the Health Department or somebody stops by," Germanotta said.

Germanotta, who has owned the homestyle Italian eatery in Manhattan’s Upper West side for 11 years, says he’s followed all the protocols. However, he’s left wondering why politicians like New York City Mayor Eric Adams and President Biden are cracking down on some restrictions but vague about others.

https://www.foxbusiness.com/entertainment/lady-gaga-dad-restaurant-owner-blasts-biden-nyc-mayor-adams-covid-protocols

https://www.politico.com/news/magazine/2022/01/06/new-civil-war-about-what-exactly-526603