In scramble to find staff, employers offer quick access to benefits, bonuses, flex hours. Back on the water: River Ratz, others prepare for 2021 openings. COVID: State switches to J & J at Emerson site; 21 in Rome hospitals.

The latest:

• Business: Immediate benefits, flexible hours, retention bonuses after 30 days -- these are some of the tools employers are trying to fill 400-plus local jobs.
• River Ratz resumes tubing, kayak service on May 8. Euharlee Creek also returning; Cedar Creek under way.
• State shifts to J & J single dose at Emerson, other mass vaccination sites. NW Georgia counties behind the state average when it comes to those 'fully vaccinated.' 21 COVID patients in Floyd, Redmond on Monday, up 6.
• Buzz: Restoration Rome named a Champion of Blueprint for Family First. Floyd Republican Women meet May 4.
• Ware Mechanical Weather Center: Summer-like heat today through Thursday -- mid 80s or higher.
• Obituaries: Mr. Charles Floyd Brock, Mr. Charles Wayne Broome, Mr. Don Peek, Mr. Ernest Marion Redden, Mrs. Annette Abney Willkie.
• Dining: Public Health restaurant inspection scores, Tuesday-Saturday.
• Crimewatch brought to you by thestoragehound.com. Updates on arrests.

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Truett's Chick-Fil-A Sports Report:

• Pepperell High names Morgan Pullum head girls volleyball coach.
• Closer look at Atlanta Falcons, NFL Draft starting Thursday night.
• Atlanta Braves Cubs in town today-Thursday.
• Pitch, Hit and Run Competitions coming to Rome Floyd Parks and Recreation.
• Atlanta Falcons updates / NFL Draft.