We are now entering day 97 of the COVID-19 Modified Operating Procedure for Extension, and we are four weeks into our Extension Return to Work Framework Plan. Our color-coded map of county reentry statuses has not changed from last week, as unfortunately, the spread of COVID-19 continues to increase. The cause of the spread is simple; too many people are not following the recommended protocols: social distancing, face masks in public, and thorough handwashing after contact with surfaces. These sound like simple instructions, but evidently, they are not easy to follow, or people are disregarding them. I, too, am exhausted with hearing the constant barrage of 24-7 news channels examining every aspect of the COVID-19 situation. Yet, I am frustrated that the volume of education does not seem to cap the spreading. Having to revert to stay-at-home orders again would take a heavy toll.
We must do our part while we are on the job and off. We must set the example for what should be done to prevent the COVID-19 spread by habitually following the safety protocols. We have come too far to have to go back into another weary cycle of starting from square one. Every one of us can contribute to curbing the spread, and your behavior might encourage others who are not being safe, to do the right thing.
Following up on my email from last week, our ongoing policy for not accepting soil samples at county offices must be strictly enforced. This directive is being emphasized across internal communications channels. We need to strongly communicate this policy to stakeholders as well. Better signage stating this policy has been created for all county office entrances and is being sent out immediately. Please make sure this new signage is posted as soon as it is received. Images of the new signage are provided at the end of this email.
Even though we are only a month out from our previous holiday weekend, I know that many of you are ready for another break to lift your spirits. The 4th of July celebratory activities tend to bring groups of people together to mingle closely. We cannot afford to have another significant spike because people, yet again, did not take safety protocols seriously during another holiday weekend.
I am asking you to please be safe and protect yourself and your family, as well as those who may be around you. Remember the importance of following the recommended safety protocols to inhibit the possibility of additional COVID-19 cases. None of us would want to be part of a spread that ends up having dire health consequences on ourselves and others.
During these uncertain times, it is more important than ever to spend quality time with your loved ones and take care of your well-being. It may end up being that when we can finally spend less time at home that we realize it was precious time we might never experience again.
As always, please continue to take good care of yourselves and your families, and thank you for what you do for Clemson Extension.
