AP National News

Ohio’s million-dollar idea: Lottery prizes for vaccinations

By ANDREW WELSH-HUGGINS - Associated Press

Republican Gov. Mike DeWine has unrolled incentives including a weekly $1 million lottery prize and drawings for college scholarships to encourage people to get vaccinated. With three weeks to go before most coronavirus health orders in Ohio lift June 2, DeWine’s bid is designed to prevent unnecessary loss of life. During a primetime address Wednesday, he said the lifting of restrictions covers all remaining directives including the mask mandate but excludes the state’s nursing homes and assisted living facilities. DeWine said the widespread availability and effectiveness of the vaccine means it’s time to end the health orders. The move was lauded by business organizations in the state.

Two planes collide midair above Denver, no one injured

By PATTY NIEBERG - Associated Press

Federal officials say two airplanes collided in midair near Denver on Wednesday and there were no injuries. Authorities say the collision between a twin-engine Fairchild Metroliner and a single-engine Cirrus SR22 happened as both planes were preparing to land at a small regional airport in a Denver suburb. Key Lime Air, which owns the Metroliner, says its aircraft sustained substantial damage to the tail section but the pilot was able to land safely at Centennial Airport. Authorities say a pilot and one passenger were on the other plane, a Cirrus SR22 single-engine plane that unleashed a red and white parachute to float to a safe landing.

The Latest: Louisiana kids can start vaccinations Thursday

By The Associated Press

NEW ORLEANS — Children as young as 12 can expect to start getting Pfizer’s coronavirus vaccine Thursday in Louisiana. The state health officer made the announcement Wednesday after federal advisers endorsed the vaccine for children aged 12 to 15. Dr. Joseph Kanter said that “we are very excited about the opportunity to protect additional age groups and their families with…