Opelika Observer COVID-19 Update for 03-19-2020

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Thursday, March 19, 2020

Vol. 01, No. 04

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Opelika, Alabama

COVERAGE

“By local people, for local people.”

EAMC gives COVID-19 update Special to the Opelika Observer COVID-19 Update (Thursday, March 19 at 5 p.m.)

How ADPH announcement affects EAMC The Alabama Department of Public Health held a press conference at 2 p.m. today and announced many closures across the state, including beaches. Related to healthcare, it was announced that elective procedures would be cancelled through April 5, except for urgent and emergent cases. Also effective immediately, all hospitals and nursing home/long-term care facilities shall prohibit visitation. EAMC had already announced the cancellation of elective procedures on Monday and a no visitor policy yesterday.

Lee County cases reach 10 The ADPH announced this afternoon that the number of confirmed COVID-19

OPS to maintain regular bill, payment schedule Special to the Opelika Observer

Photo special to the Opelika Observer cases in Lee County stands at 10, up from 8 yesterday. That is the second most among Alabama’s 78 cases.

Hospital officials expect more confirmed cases for Lee County in the coming days.

EAMC does not know of any possible connection between the cases.

First Case in Chambers County

The first COVID-19 case for Chambers County was announced this morning by the Alabama Department of Public Health. The person presented to our Emergency Department at EAMC-Lanier a few days ago. They were screened outside and a mask was placed on them prior to being brought inside through

a separate entrance for treatment and a specimen collection. Proper infection prevention protocols were followed throughout, and the patient was discharged home and instructed to self-quarantine for 14 days.

Notice to Employers Our Emergency See EAMC, page A9

Opelika Power Services (OPS) will continue to bill on schedule each month and payment is due as normal. If payment is not received by the delinquent date, a late fee will be added; however, OPS will not charge a non-payment fee nor will OPS disconnect power if not paid by the disconnect date.

OPS encourages everyone to pay their bill monthly because the waiving of disconnection and nonpayment fees is only until April 14. At this time, disconnection of services for non-payment would resume on April 15.

This policy will be evaluated again by April 14 to determine if an additional grace

period is needed.

Our lobby is currently closed and will remain closed until further notice, but our drive-thru window will be open each business day from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Option 1) Payments can be made at our drive-thru window, by mail, online at www.opelikapower.com or by calling OPS at 334-705-5170 Option 2) If a customer needs to sign up for service or transfer service, they can call 334705-5170 to speak to a customer service representative. If a customer has business that requires an appointment, they can call 334-7055170 to schedule the appointment.

Our customersw See OPS, page A3

Lee County Updates

Special to the Opelika Observer The Lee County Courthouse and satellite office have

loced their doors, but are allowing customers in a few at a time.

No more than one person per office or per clerk are being

allowed at a time in order to eliminate lines.

These new restrictions are subject to change at any time.

Alabama Statewide statistics: 78 cases/ 10 in Lee County @opelikaobserver

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A2 March 19, 2020

President Trump signs ‘Families First Blue Cross and Blue Coronavirus Response Act’ into law Shield of Alabama Warning Alabamians of COVID-19 Scams Special to the Opelika Observer

Today, President Donald J. Trump has signed a legislative package that provides extensive assistance to Americans impacted by the coronavirus.

This legislation provides strong economic assistance to American businesses, workers and families, alleviating financial burdens experienced by those affected by the virus.

-The act provides free coronavirus diagnostic testing for the American people, regardless of their economic circumstances or health coverage.

-The President and his Administration have worked tirelessly with Congress to secure this legislative package.

-The Administration’s negotiation efforts were highly effective and resulted

in substantial improvements from the initial bill brought by House Democrats.

SUPPORTING BUSINESSES, WORKERS, AND FAMILIES This package delivers on President Trump’s commitment to provide strong economic support to Americans harmed by the virus.

This legislation builds on the Administration’s longstanding commitment to take every step necessary to provide economic relief and support for Americans affected by the virus.

-The act establishes tax credits to provide paid sick and family leave for coronavirusrelated employment interruptions.

-Eligible workers who are sick with the virus, quarantined, taking care of someone affected or caring for a child whose school has closed, will

continue to be paid.

-Employees will receive pay directly from their employers, rather than from a less-efficient government-run program.

-Though every dollar of required paid leave will be offset by tax credits for eligible employers, the act protects small businesses by offering an exemption in the rare event that paid leave requirements would jeopardize their business.

-The legislation incentivizes states to ease access to unemployment benefits, assisting Americans who may be unemployed due to the impact of the virus.

-To support families and the most vulnerable, the bill also provides funding and flexibility for emergency nutritional aid for senior citizens, women, children and low-income families.

TESTING FOR ALL AMERICANS

This legislation helps to realize President Trump’s primary goal of ensuring coronavirus testing is accessible to every American.

-The President is committed to ensuring that every American who needs to be tested for the coronavirus is able to do so, regardless of their circumstances.

-To that end, this legislation offers free coronavirus testing – including free testing through commercial insurance, Medicare, Medicaid, CHIP, Indian Health Service and TRI-CARE. -President Trump continues to work tirelessly with the Federal government and the private sector to protect expand Americans’ access to coronavirus testing.

-As a result of the President’s efforts, testing is now available in all 50 states and we are testing faster than ever.

Special to the Opelika Observer Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is warning their customers and Alabamians about national Coronavirus scams. These scams are targeting members by leveraging fear related to COVID-19.

Scam Warning Signs: -Door-to-door solicitation for COVID-19 for any testing and prescribing; (tell individual(s) you are not interested, and you will contact your physician).

-Phone calls asking for health insurance contract information for free testing and services; (hang up immediately).

-Outreach from unfamiliar healthcare workers offering to send you a home test kit.

-False advertisements for vaccinations or medications to treat the disease.

-Unexplained or unauthorized laboratory tests or prescriptions appearing on your Blue Cross Explanation of Benefits statement.

-Advertisements offering health products that are ineffective against COVID-19 such as herbal teas,

City of Auburn extends relief to businesses unable to pay taxes

Special to the Opelika Observer

Effective immediately, the City of Auburn is extending relief to businesses unable to pay their February, March, and April 2020 sales, use, lodging, rental and leasing tax liabilities.

While businesses must still file their City of Auburn sales, use, lodging, rental

and leasing taxes by the 20th day of each month, penalties for late payments will be waived through June 1, 2020.

Participation in this relief effort requires taxpayers to file the City of Auburn taxes directly with the City. As we continue to practice social distancing, we encourage taxpayers to use the following

methods to file the City tax: File on City’s citizen self-service website - instructions are on the landing page.

Email completed City of Auburn sales tax forms to revenue@auburnalabama. org Mail completed City of Auburn sales tax forms to the address listed on page 2

of the form Drop off completed City of Auburn sales tax forms in the drop box located across from City Hall on Tichenor Ave next to a US Postal Mail receptacle. The drop contents are collected the following business day.

Those with questions can contact the City of Auburn Revenue Office at 334-501-7239.

Regular hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Find more information about the City of Auburn’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic at auburnalabama.org/coronavirus.

supplements, oils or ointments.

-Spear phishing emails referencing COVID-19 which contain malware.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama cares about the health and well-being of our members and Alabamians. We are taking every step available to minimize these scams. We encourage members and Alabamians to be vigilant. If you suspect healthcare fraud, please report it to AlabamaBlue. com/fraud or call our fraud hotline at 1-800-824-4391.

About Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama has insured Alabamians for over 83 years.

Blue Cross offers coverage plans to corporations, individuals and the senior market.

For more information about Blue Cross, visit AlabamaBlue. com. Connect with us on Facebook, check out our videos on YouTube and follow us on Twitter for more up-to-date information.

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama is an independent licensee of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

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Publisher: Michelle Key Editor: Morgan Bryce Marketing: Doug Horn and Woody Ross Photojournalist: Robert Noles Phone: 334.749.8003 editor@opelikaobserver.com Sports Writers: Rick Lanier and Michelle@opelikaobserver.com D. Mark Mitchell

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w w w. o p e l i k a o b s e r v e r . c o m 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801 Copyright 2009. All right reserved. Opelika Observer is published weekly by Opelika Observer, 216 S 8th St. Opelika, AL 36801. Periodicals postage is paid at Opelika, AL. USPS #025104 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Opelika Observer, 216 S. 8th Street, Opelika, AL 36801

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A3 March 19, 2020

Opelika residents come together to feed children during school hiatus

By Morgan Bryce Editor Conversations in a Facebook group message amongst a group of Opelika residents and friends earlier this week led to a call-to-action to feed children currently stranded at home because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.

The result is nearly 700 meals distributed to children in some of Opelika’s most eco-

nomically challenged neighborhoods.

“We’re trying to take our minds off what’s going on right now and spread love and joy throughout our community and feed the children.

This has been a really great experience,” Holmes said.

Holmes, along with close personal friend Tameka Lockhart, are leading this initiative with approximately eight other volun-

teers. This morning, they received assistance from District 83 House Rep. Jeremy Gray and up-andcoming Jock McKissic.

At the end of each day, Holmes said she, Lockhart and friends have discussed what they would need for the next day, then go to Sam’s Club to purchase necessary grocery items. Friday’s menu will include hot dogs, PBJs and a

dessert.

Tomorrow will mark the end of this initiative, as Opelika City Schools will be providing free student meals from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. five days a week starting next Monday. Distribution sites will be Carver Primary and Opelika High School.

Holmes said she and her group’s Friday goal is to reach 500 distributed meals.

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer

Auburn business professor offers quarantining advice Special to the Opelika Observer Amid the global outbreak of COVID-19, Dr. Brian Connelly, professor of management and the Luck Eminent Scholar in Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business, offers his thoughts on social distancing.

Dr. Connelly has studied networks of people (such as groups in a workplace) and companies (such as interconnected boards, known as the interlocking directorate).

His research, and that of his management and sociology colleagues, has uncovered insights about diffusion (or, in the case of a virus, contagion) throughout a social network that are informative to the predicament we all face with COVID-19.

How effective is social distancing?

“Many of us have seen the pithy video circulating on social media of a string of matches. The end match is lit and, one by one, all the matches in the row are subsequently lit, right up until one match is removed from the string, which stops the chain reaction. The implication, in this perilous time of COVID-19 transmission, is that social distancing can stop the spread of the disease.

While the message of the video is correct and well meaning, it actually underestimates the critical role of social distancing.

To understand what the video gets wrong, it is important to grasp one of the basic principles of social networks: network topology. Specifically, when we get a close look at the map of people and connections, which researchers call the “topology” of the network, we see that social distancing can, potentially, have massively disruptive effects on contagion.”

What makes social distancing so important to reducing contagion?

“The key is in understanding how we are all connected to one another. Some might think the topology of social networks is uniformly distributed, so that it looks like a grid, much like the streets of Tulsa.

A few thoroughfares might be bigger than others, but it’s pretty much a straight line to travel anywhere in the network to anywhere else in the network.

This is the view of the matchbook video, where social distance and connections exist in a straight line.

Others might envision a social network as a randomly distributed hodgepodge of connections, much

Connelly like the city streets of Boston. Like a lot of social networks, the streets evolved over time, and as a result the connections are confusing and rarely travel in a straight line.

To get from one side of the network to the other typically requires many turns in a circuitous route. Neither of these perspectives accurately depict social networks. D.J. Watts of the University of Pennsylvania is a pioneering researcher that describes the social networks we form as “Small Worlds.” By this, he means that the topology of our social interactions is not uniform, like Tulsa, or random, like Boston, but rather it is a lot of densely connected people that are only loosely connected to one another. In other words, we have lots of little social networks with people that are closely connected to each other (for example, family, co-workers, the bridge club) but these social clusters are generally not well connected to each other.”

What makes Small

Worlds important?

“It means that social distancing can be hugely effective, if we engage in the right kind of social distancing. The key is to avoid connecting disconnected clusters of people. Ron Burt of the University of Chicago describes what he calls “Structural Holes,” which are big gaps between clusters of people in a social network. Those that fill a structural hole are the most important people in the network because they are the glue that holds the whole network together. We all have the potential for filling a structural hole. For instance, every time we get our haircut, we bridge the gap between our family members and those that work at the salon.”

What does this mean for the spread of COVID-19?

“It means there are things we can do to make our social distancing especially effective in reducing contagion of the disease. Many of us are trying to isolate ourselves as much as possible, and in the process are making decisions about those with whom we will interact. As we do so, it is imperative to think about whether you are filling a structural hole.

Consider this in practical terms. I am working from home, where I share living quarters with my wife

and two of my daughters. We invite my mother-in-law into our home. The five of us form a densely connected social cluster.

Imagine, now, if I meet with one of my doctoral students.

This is just one additional social connection. However, our connection bridges a structural hole, which potentially could allow contagion to jump from one cluster in the network to another.

Meeting with a doctoral student fills a structural hole, which is exactly what we must avoid doing.”

Anything else we should know about social networks?

“In fact, there is a related principle that could be very important to contagion. It is hidden in what Stephen Borgatti of the University of Kentucky calls “Network Closeness,” which is a term that describes the shortest path to traverse the entirety of a social network.

In other words, how many jumps does it take for anything (like a virus) to skip all the way from one side of a network to the other?

Structural holes make it super easy to make these jumps.

This is why contagion happens so quickly, because social networks have lots of structural holes, so things like viruses can jump quickly from cluster to cluster in the network. On the flip side, it is also the key

to reducing contagion.

By eliminating any structural hole connection, we make it difficult for the virus to jump between social clusters and slow the speed of contagion.”

Final thoughts?

“In simple terms, think of it this way: Don’t just quarantine yourself, quarantine the virus. By carefully choosing our social contacts, and ensuring we are not connecting disparate groups in our network, we isolate the virus to specific clusters. We make it difficult for the virus to jump from one cluster to another.

Small Worlds, Structural Holes, Network Closeness … it all sounds very technical, but it boils down to this: Social distancing can reduce contagion far more than you may even realize.”

About Dr. Brian Connelly: Dr. Brian Connelly is a professor of management and the Luck Eminent Scholar in Auburn University’s Harbert College of Business. He is editorelect of the Journal of Management and has published in journals such as the Strategic Management Journal, Organization Science, Global Strategy Journal, Strategic Organization and the Journal of Management Studies. His work is often cited in media outlets, such as the New York Times, Wall Street Journal and USA Today.

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A4 March 19, 2020

Alabama Ag Commissioner Rick Pate issues statement on statewide food supply distribution Special to the Opelika Observer

Since Gov. Kay Ivey’s statement on March 15 on the coronavirus (COVID-19), the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industrieshas continued to fulfill their regulatory responsibilities and redirected their 350 employees to work from home as needed.

“Our duty is to protect food safety, ensure animal health, permit the movement of plants and the use of pesticides while regulating the weigh-

Pate ing and measuring devices needed in industry,” said Alabama Agriculture Commissioner Pate.

“We fulfill our regulatory responsibilities so that the food and agriculture industries of Alabama can continue to provide a safe and secure food

supply. Alabama’s agricultural producers and related industries not only provide food and fiber to its citizens, but to the rest of the country and the world.”

On Wednesday morning, Pate participated in a conference call with U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue and other state Agriculture Commissioners and was assured that USDA is coordinating with all federal agencies to prohibit any federal actions being taken to curb the spread of CO-

VID-19 from adversely impacting our national food supply or logistics systems supporting those industries.

“Food is essential all year round, but in the face of a pandemic, it is critical the shelves remain stocked and supplies remain plentiful.

America’s farmers and ranchers, and those on the front lines in the food service industry are doing their part,” Secretary Perdue said.

Pate’s office has been in touch with Governor Ivey,

State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris and Alabama EMA Director Brian Hastings to request their immediate assistance in designating all agricultural stakeholders as ‘Critical Infrastructure and Essential Services’ and for these vital industries to be allowed to continue to operate unrestricted.

ADAI would like to assure their fellow citizens that the state’s food supply is secure. There is ample sustainable food in our unrestricted supply system to continue to feed Ala-

bamians as the system currently works.

There is no reason to feel the need to hoard or to store more food than normal. The food supply chain will continue to operate as normal and will strive to keep the shelves stocked with food and supplies during this pandemic.

From growing to transportation, to processing to distribution, the federal government and our state government are committed to allowing all components of the food supply chain to operate unimpeded.

AMC theaters announces closures nationwide

Special to the Opelika Observer

AMC was ever so disappointed for our moviegoers and employee teams to have to announce the temporary closure of all our theatres nationwide in accordance with local, state and federal guidelines regarding the coronavirus pandemic.

We expect this situation

could unfortunately last for at least 6‑12 weeks.

We greatly value our AMC Stubs® members and recognize that you will not be able to use your membership at this time. AMC is taking the following actions to ensure that you get full value from your relationship with us:

• All AMC Stubs A‑List member accounts

have been automatically paused while our theatres remain closed.

There will be no A‑List billing or payments while our theatres are closed. So, you will not be charged at this time.

Your A‑List membership benefits will be automatically reinstated after governmental guidelines allow for our theatres to re‑open, and we will communicate

with you in advance of reactivating your membership.

• AMC Stubs Premiere memberships that were scheduled to expire while theatres are closed will be extended for the amount of time that we are closed.

• AMC Stubs points and rewards that were set to expire while theatres are closed will receive an extension

for the amount of time that we are closed. This extension includes birthday rewards as well.

No action is required of you at this time. We will notify you as soon as guidelines allow for our theatres to re‑open, so you can get back to doing what you enjoy ‑ watching movies at AMC! In the meantime, since we know you love

movies, especially while our theatres are closed, please check out AMC Theatres On Demand for digital movie rentals and purchases. For more information, please refer to our website or mobile app.

And to stay current on how AMC is responding to health concerns, visit our site for the latest updates.

Fandango updates users on refunds, membership status Special to the Opelika Observer Following is a message from the American movie ticketing company Fandango to users in Alabama and across the nation about changes to their services during the ongoing COVID-10 pandemic.

“To our fellow Movie Fans, We at Fandango hope you and your loved ones are staying safe during this time of constant change and uncertainty.Like you, when we’ve needed an entertainment break, we have turned first to our local cinemas to share

the thrill of discovering and watching new movies with a community of fans. Sadly, many of our cinema partners have needed to close temporarily to keep our communities safe. We know they will come back stronger than ever and when they do, we’ll be there to support them and continue to give you the best moviegoing experience. In the meantime, we hope we can still be a resource for you at home, as you turn to films and TV to make the days ahead a little brighter.

Here’s how we can help - Refunds and Exchanges:

Fandango’s customer service team is hard at work processing refunds for movies whose release dates were altered, as well as for showtimes that have been impacted due to health concerns and theater closures. For those of you waiting for a refund for a cancelled showtime, please know that this will be automatically processed, and you should receive a full refund without needing to contact our team. If you do not receive your refund in two weeks, please visit www.fandango.com.

Extending Expiration of VIP+ Rewards:

For our VIP+ customers who have received $5 rewards that expire (or expired) on or after March 1, we are extending the expiration date. Visit the Fandango website for more details. If you’d like to use the reward for home viewing, please check out our on-demand streaming service, FandangoNOW, for more than 100,000 newly released and catalogue movies and next-day TV shows to rent or buy with no subscription required.

Want an Entertainment Break? Hopefully See Fandango, page A8

www.cyberzone334.com

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A5 March 19, 2020

MAX Credit Union switching to call center, drive-thru hours only Special to the Opelika Observer MAX Credit Union is taking steps to protect the health and safety of their members, staff and communities while ensuring the delivery of all the financial services their members expect.

Beginning March 20, MAX will operate by drive-thru and call center hours only. Lobbies will be accessible by appointment only. Appointments may be made through their mobile banking app, or by calling our call center.

They are committed to making sure members continue to

have access to critical banking services. In addition to teller transactions and other services offered through our drive-thru windows, they strongly encourage members to use the MAX Mobile Banking app and online banking for self-service for daily account access.

MAX ATMs will also remain open 24/7. If you are not already using these services, please visit myMAX. com to learn more and check the times of each branch’s drive-thru hours.

You can contact the MAX Call Center at: Local: 334-260-2600 Toll-free: 1-800-776-

6776 Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 11 p.m. Central Standard Time Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Central Standard Time MAX strongly encourages members to use their debit and credit cards when making purchases. In addition, you may prefer to pay with your digital wallet, such as Apple Pay, Samsung Pay or Google Pay, to avoid touching bills, coins, or cards during this outbreak. This MAX webpage will guide you on how to get started and add your MAX debit or credit card to use digi-

tal wallet for your next purchase: https://www. mymax.com/accounts/ mobile-banking/maxdigital-wallets.

As they continually monitor the situation, rest assured that MAX will provide the latest updates at www. myMAX.com.

About MAX MAX is a leading, locally owned financial institution in Alabama, with more than $1.4 billion in assets. Serving our communities for 65 years, MAX provides a full suite of consumer and business financial products, including checking, savings, loans, wealth management, insurance,

mortgages, online and mobile banking. MAX has 18 branch locations across its Alabama footprint and more than 30,000 surcharge free ATMs. With ap-

proximately 323 team members, MAX is committed to providing exceptional customer service and value. For more information, visit www.myMAX.com.

Governor Ivey issues statement Alabama Department on statewide public health order of Agriculture releases

sanitary guidelines for farmers,consumers Special to the Opelika Observer

Ivey Special to the Opelika Observer Gov. Kay Ivey and the Alabama Department of Public Health (ADPH) on Thursday issued a statewide health order to aid in Alabama’s efforts to contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19).

Statewide through April 5: All gatherings of 25 persons or more, or gatherings of any size that cannot maintain a consistent six-foot distance between persons, are prohibited. This order shall apply to all gatherings, events or activities that bring 25 or more persons in a single room or single space at the same time.

Any restaurant, bar, brewery or similar establishments shall not permit on-premise consumption of food or drink.

Governor Ivey continues to encourage patrons to visit their local eateries for take-out or delivery provided the social distancing protocols include maintaining a consistent six-foot distance between persons are followed.

All beaches will be closed effective today at 5 p.m. For clarification, the term “beach” means the sandy shoreline area abutting the Gulf of Mexico, whether privately or publicly owned, including beach access

points.

Preschools and childcare centers will be closed effective at close of school or business today. This shall not apply to licensed childcare centers that provide services exclusively to employees with: state and local governments, first responders (including EMS and Fire Services), law enforcement, hospitals, nursing home/long-term care facilities (including assisted living and specialty care assisted living facilities), end stage renal disease treatment centers, pharmacies and grocery stores.

Effective immediately, all hospitals and nursing home/long-term care facilities (including assisted living and specialty care assisted living facilities) shall prohibit visitation of all visitors and non-essential health care personnel, except for certain compassionate care situations such as maternity and end-of-life.

All elective dental and medical procedures shall be delayed, effective immediately.

Governor Kay Ivey: “Despite our best efforts, the threat of the Covid-19 virus continues to spread and, unfortunately, we have not yet reached peak impact. The decision to place regulations upon Alabamians living in Jefferson County and

its surrounding counties was an effort to contain the area in which the virus has been prevalent in our state.

“As of this morning, 68 individuals have tested positive for the Coronavirus in Alabama.

While I am pleased that many of our citizens are self-regulating and are practicing social distancing, we want to ensure that Alabama is doing our part to flatten the curve.

“Closing Alabama beaches is not a simple decision but one that I came to with the consultation of our elected officials along the coast and members of my administration. After many rounds of conversations with local leaders, in which we discussed several options, I have decided to close beach access in any form. Since we do not want to promote social gatherings, keeping the beaches open sends the wrong message to the public. At this moment, the safety and wellbeing of Alabamians is paramount.

“In addition, we rely heavily upon our first responders and critical healthcare workers to help those who are ill, as well as essential state government employees See Ivey, page A8

The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries has worked on a set of guidelines that we believe will be in the best interest of our markets, their farmers and consumers.

These are based on the potential risks associated with COVID-19 and its impact on health and the economic well-being of our farmers.

MARKET OPERATING GUIDELINES DURING COVID-19 OUTBREAK: -Farmers, vendors and market staff should wear foodgrade gloves, with frequent changes as they become soiled or contaminated.

-Increase the numbers of hand-washing stations available within the market, along with signage to encourage customers to frequently wash their hands.

-Encourage farmers to bring handwashing supplies and hand sanitizers for frequent use within their own booth space.

-Limit bare-hand contact. No handshaking, no hugs.

To the extent possible, limit customer handling of food products.

-Segregate duties behind market tables. Designate one individual to handle money, tokens and coupons, while others handle the products being sold.

Again, wear food

grade gloves with frequent changes.

-All foods should be pre-packaged to eliminate potential contamination at the market. Examples would be prepackaging breads and baked goods.

-Farmers and vendors who are ill or showing signs of illness should stay home. Send a replacement to sell if they are not sick. If anyone within the farm business is confirmed infected with Covid-19, notify the manager and remain home.

-Farmers should be watchful of signs of illness in customers, removing all products they may have touched from their sales tables. Do not remove with bare hands.

-Suspend cooking demonstrations and sampling.

-Institute 6 to 10 feet of space between vendor booths where possible.

-No dogs are allowed at the farmers’ market unless they are service dogs as defined as follows: Under the ADA, a service animal is defined as a dog that has been individually trained to do work or perform tasks for an individual with a disability. The task(s) performed by the dog must be directly related to the person’s disability. (emotional support dogs do not qualify).

MARKET CUSTOMER BEST PRACTICES DURING COVID-19

OUTBREAK -We encourage everyone who is healthy and feels safe to visit our farmers’ markets in order to procure healthy, local food from area farmers, ranchers and small businesses.

But we ask that you follow these strict guidelines: -Please be patient and follow new market rules during this time.

-Wash your hands for 20 seconds upon arrival at the market and frequently as you move throughout the space. We will have an increased number of handwashing stations and hand sanitizer and all vendors are required to display hand sanitizer in each booth.

-Do not congregate between booths or in walkways.

-Maintain at least an arm’s length distance between other shoppers and vendors, especially while you are waiting in line.

-Do not greet anyone at the market with hugs or handshakes.

-Avoid touching your face.

-No hand-to-hand contact will be allowed between vendors and shoppers.

Point to the product that you would like, allow the vendor to bag it and set it down on the table before you pick it up.

-Do not hand vendors payments directly. Place cash and credit cards on See Ag, page A9

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A6 March 19, 2020

Alabama AG warns businesses, Local restaurant directory, individuals against price gouging call for available options Special to the Opelika Observer

Attorney General Steve Marshall warns those who would seek to illegally profit from the current public health emergency that Alabama’s price gouging law has been activated.

On March 13, Gov. Kay Ivey declared a State Public Health Emergency in Alabama relating to the appearance of the 2019 novel coronavirus known as COVID-19. Alabama’s price gouging law comes into effect when the governor declares a State of Emergency and it prohibits the “unconscionable pricing” of items for sale or rent.

“Alabamians should be on guard against those who

would seek to prey upon them through price gouging of commodities and services for consumption or use as a direct result of the public health emergency,” Marshall said. “Furthermore, those who seek to profit during this time of emergency through price gouging will be subject to the law.”

Although what constitutes an unconscionable price is not specifically set forth in state law, a price that is 25 percent or more above the average price charged in the same area within the last 30 days — unless the increase can be attributed to a reasonable cost in connection with the rental or sale of the commodity — is a prima facie case of

unconscionable pricing. The penalty is a fine of up to $1,000 per violation, and those determined to have willfully and continuously violated this law may be prohibited from doing business in Alabama.

Alabamians who want to file an illegal price gouging report are encouraged to do so via the Alabama Attorney General’s Consumer Interest Division web link: https://www.alabamaag.gov/consumercomplaint, or by calling 1-800-392-5658 to receive a form by mail to complete and return.

You may also write the Alabama Attorney General’s Office, which is located at 501 Washington Ave., Montgomery, Alabama, 36130.

COVID-19 SAFETY PLAN In view of the rapidly spreading COVID-19 (Corona) virus, we are taking measures to protect our elderly and immunocompromised customers.

The pharmacy will serve the community through our drive-thru/curb side and delivery service only effective immediatly.

CALL OR TEXT US AND LET US KNOW WHAT YOU NEED. WE WILL SHOP FOR YOU.

We will not open our doors to allow customers inside the pharmacy but rather bring everything out to you in your vehicle or to your home by our free delivery service.

HOURS: 8 A.M. TO 6 P.M. MONDAY TO FRIDAY

Compiled by Circe Cater

This is a list of local Lee County restaurants that has been complied for the public. Some may be offering curbside service, others may be offering delivery via a delivery service. Call to determine the best option for each.

- Acre: acreauburn.com (online ordering coming Friday) 334-246-3763 - Ampersand: 334-274-7859 - Amsterdam Café: amsterdamcafeauburn.com - 334-8268181 - Another Broken Egg: 334521-4010 - Arricia & Piccolo: 334-8445140 - Backwater BBQ - 706-6814661 - Barberitos: 334-887-9838 - Baumhower’s Victory Grille: 334-246-4180 - Big Blue Bagel: 334-5012245 - Big Mike’s Steakhouse Auburn: 334-209-1975 - Bistro To Go: 334-2091690

- Block and Barrel: 334821-4070 - Bow & Arrow: bowandarrowbbq.com « 334-246-2546 - Brick Oven Pizza: 334745-0223 - Buffalo Wild Wings: buffalowildwings.com « 334741-0989 - Burn Nutrition: 334-2091880 - Butcher Paper BBQ: 334748-9008 - Byron’s Smokehouse: 334-887-9981 - Café 123: 334-737-0069 - Chicken Salad Chick (Auburn): chickensaladchick.com/ auburn « 334-821-7770 - Chicken Salad Chick(Opelika): chickensaladchick.com/Opelika/ « 334-2031449 - Country’s Barbecue: 334821-8711 - Cup and Saucer: thecupandsaucer.biz/ « 334-209-4558 - Drive-by Tacos: drivebytacos.com (for daily locations) « 334-203-4178 - Eighth & Rail: 334-7455456 - Fratelli’s Ristorante Italiano: 334-209-6363

- Gigi’s Cupcakes of Auburn-Opelika: 334-2754331 - Good Karma: augoodkarma.com «334-246-3144 - Good Ol’ Boys: 334-8263900 - Gourmet Tiger: 334-8219222 - Guthries Auburn & Opelika Locations: Drive-Thru - Hamilton’s (Both Locations): 334-329-5886 (Ogletree) « 334-887-2677 (Magnolia) - Highway 80 Barn: 334745-5217 - Irish Bred Pub: chris. irishbredopelika@gmail.com « 334-363-2235 - Jersey Mikes (Auburn): jerseymikes.com/12019 « 334591-6600 - Jersey Mikes (Tigertown): jerseymikes.com/12004 « 334705-7827 - Jim Bob’s (1st Ave location): 334-742-9655 - Jim Bob’s in Tigertown: 334-741-4001 - Jim N Nicks: 334-246-5197 - John Emerald Distilling Company: 334-737-5353

See Restaurants, page A9

Cafe 123 - Order ahead and they will bring it to your car

pelika Observer O

A8 March 19, 2020

Community Foundation of AuburnBank updates customers on services East Alabama establishes Special to the Opelika Observer

AuburnBank is closely monitoring the developments surrounding the Coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) and following the guidance from the CDC, State Health Department, and other banking authorities.

As a precautionary measure to ensure the safety of our customers and employees, ALL AuburnBank branches and loan offices will be open by drive-thru or lobby appointment only starting Friday, March 20, 2020 until further notice.

• For a list of our drive-thru locations, please visit: https:// www.auburnbank. com/support-contactlocations.htm • Lobbies will be open by appointment only. If you need to talk to one of our bankers or access your safe deposit box, please call Customer Service at (334) 8219200. Our loan officers remain ready to discuss your existing loan, or new loan re-

quests via telephone, email, or lobby appointment during this time.

• Our Corner Village branch next to Kroger in Auburn, will be temporarily closed starting Friday, March 20 (this is an update from our prior notice). Since this location has no safe deposit boxes or drive-thru, all banking services at this location will be suspended until further notice.

If you normally do your banking at this location, we would encourage you to visit one of our other conveniently located drive-thru facilities.

The closest drive-thru to the Corner Village branch would be the Super Six drive-thru located at our Main Office at 100 N. Gay Street in downtown Auburn.

AuburnBank also offers a number of other ways for you to bank with us, including: • Online and Mobile Banking AuburnBank offers Internet banking for both consumers

and businesses. This includes the ability to check balances, pay bills, and transfer funds. You can also deposit checks using our mobile app (approval required and limitations may apply).

For more information on Internet banking for your personal accounts, visit: https://www.auburnbank.com/personalbanking-online.htm.

For more information on Internet banking for your business accounts, visit: https://www.auburnbank.com/cashmanagement-onlinebanking.htm.

• ATMs Check your balance, make withdrawals, or transfer funds. For a list of locations, visit: https://www.auburnbank.com/supportcontact-locations.htm If you have any other questions about how we can help meet your banking needs during this time, please contact Customer Service at 334-821-9200 or onlinebanking@auburnbank.com.

And, there is FandangoNOW, as mentioned above.

We wish you good health and safety in the days and weeks ahead, and we thank you

from the bottom of our movie-loving hearts for your continued support of our company. We look forward to being back at the movies soon!”

emergency rulemaking to make critical exemptions to allow for daycare to be provided for these areas of crucial personnel.

“My administration – and all the services of state government – are going to be as flexible as humanly possible to help make your government work for you during the coming days and weeks.

I want to the thank the people of our great state for their continued

patience and for taking great care of themselves and each other during this pandemic.”

State Health Officer Dr. Scott Harris: “We understand that the health orders issued will be a hardship on Alabamians.

We must, first and foremost, protect the health and safety of our citizens.

This decision has not been made lightly and will help to prevent the spread of this virus.”

Fandango, from A4 we can make your days a little brighter by connecting you to the best entertainment options available for home viewing. Our friends at Rotten Tomatoes are preparing binge-worthy streaming guides based on Tomatometer scores.

You can check out thousands of memorable movie moments, fun mashups and trailers at Movieclips on YouTube and across our social media channels.

Ivey, from A5 to keep the continuity of government, and many of them struggle with dependent childcare if daycares close. As a result, I have asked the Alabama Department of Human Resources and the Alabama Department of Public Health to explore

Coronavirus Relief Fund Special to the Opelika Observer

The Community Foundation of East Alabama, Inc. is announcing a Coronavirus Relief Fund for the area. This fund is able and will provide resources to those organizations that are legally able to receive taxdeductible contributions, such as 501c3 nonprofit organizations, schools, faith-based organizations, governmental entities and other public entities and are working with citizens impacted by coronavirus (COVID-19) and experiencing economic distress from this outbreak.

We will work closely with all partners who have the expertise of working with those in need and know first-hand where the needs are most intense.

The CFEA is not

able to provide grants to individuals but, as stated, will work with community-based organizations to provide resources. We also encourage you to donate to organizations directly that you normally support. Through this fund, we hope to be able to coordinate and provide funding where most needed, quickly and long term.

Please heed all the advice on how to protect yourself and others.

Contributions may be made on the Community Foundation of East

Alabama website: http/:www.cfeastalabama.org or by mail to the Community Foundation of East Alabama, P. O. Box 165, Opelika, Alabama 368030165.

Please make checks payable to the CFEA and designate Coronavirus in memo.

Contributions are tax deductible to the extent allowed by the law. For more information, contact Barbara Patton or Todd Rauch by calling 334-705-5138 or sending email to info@cfeastalabama.org.

pelika Observer O

East Alabama Apothecary now providing curbside pickup

Special to the Opelika Observer Following is a press release from East Alabama Medical Center on their apothecary, which is now offering patients curbside pickup services to their customers.

“The East Alabama

EAMC, from A1 Departments at EAMC and EAMC-Lanier are receiving individuals who are expressing that they have one or more of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 and that their employer is requiring them to receive a COVID-19 “test” before returning to work. Please know that we cannot “test” every person who comes to the ED with these symptoms due to the limited number of supplies available for use for specimen collection.

Also, pleased understand that “testing” means that a specimen is collected and sent to either the ADPH or an independent lab to determine if the person is positive or negative for COVID-19. Such collection kits must be reserved for patients

AG, from A5 the table for vendors to pick up. Use Apple Pay or Venmo when available. If you are able, we encourage you to set up Apple Pay or Venmo on your smartphone before you arrive and use this as a payment method. If you do use this method of payment, please sanitize your phone before you arrive and after you leave the market.

-Anyone who is feeling unwell in any way should stay home.

-Any shopper who is at a higher risk, including individuals who are over 65 and/

Restaurants, from A6 - Johnny Bruscos: johnnybruscos.com/location/auburnmooresmillrd/ « 334-826-0535 - johnnybruscos.com/location/ auburn/ « 334-826-0055 - La Cantina: 334-2031418 - Laredo: 334-826-2724 - Little Caesars: Free Delivery for Online Orders of $10 or more - Lucy’s: lucysauburn.com « 334-521-0391 - Ma’Fia’s: 334-745-6266 - Mama Mocha’s Coffee: 334-707-7946 (Auburn) « 334707-9325 (Opelika) (Contact only for roasted beans) - Marcos Pizza (all locations): call ahead ordering - McAlisters: 334-502-0101 - Mellow Mushroom: mellowmushroom.com/locati…/ al-auburn-128-n-collegest-36830/ « 334-887-6356 - Mikata: 334-821-5305 - MK’s Kitchen: 334-7496989 - Moe’s Original BBQ (Bent Creek): 334-329-7049 - Moe’s Southwest Grill: order.moes.com « 334-7498156 (Tigertown) « 334-4668035 (Downtown AU) - Newk’s Eatery: 334-749-

A9 March 19, 2020 0011 (Tigertown) « 334-8215954 (Auburn) - Niffer’s Opelika Road: 334-821-3118 - Niffers on the Tracks: 334-787-5989 - Olive Garden: olivegarden.com « 334-749-1255 - One Bike Coffee: 334521-7668 - OTown Ice Cream (334) 737-5700 - Outbak Steakhouse: outback.com « 334-741-4014 - Panda Express: 334-8441818 - Philly Connection: 334887-3996 - Piazza Roman Pizza: piazzaroman.com « 334-8269180 - Red Clay Brewing Company: 334-737-5409 - Resting Pulse Brewing Company: 334-203-1364 - RocknRoll: 334-329-5100 - Royal Doner: RoyalDonerAuburn.com « 334-209-1426 - Savanh Thai Kitchen: 334-246-3088 - Smoothie King Bent Creek and S. College: Online Ordering on their App - Sushi Bistro: 334-3295113 - Sushi Hero: 334-2092988 - Susie K’s: 334-737-6065 - Sword & Skillet: 310800-8248

- Tacorita: 334-758-0844 - TCBY: 334-826-8828 - The Bean (Cinnamon Rolls only, Curbside only): thebeancoffeeshop.com - The Coffee Cat: 334-7441953 - The Depot: richard@ allaboardauburn.com (curbside bottle service) « 334-521-5177 - The Hound: thehoundauburn.com « 334-246-3300 (also doing curbside bottle service) - The Mason Jar: 334-7340270 - The Waverly Local: 334539-6077 - Toomer’s Specialty Coffee Roasters - (334) 332-6652 - Venditori’s: 334-8267360 - Wilton’s Catering - cateringbywiltons@gmail.com (334) 750-3241 - Yum Yums: yumyumstogo.com « 334-209-2011 - Zoners: zonerspizza.com « 334-246-3179 We reliaze that this list does not include every restaurant in Lee County but we will update as we receive new information.

Also - bear in mind that with new restrictions coming daily, some of these businesses may changes operations as time goes on.

Apothecary is now providing curbside pickup of prescriptions outside of The Surgery Center on the back side of the hospital. A station will be set up there from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily. If someone is picking up a prescription outside of these hours, they will need to call 334-

528-2293 to arrange pickup prior to coming to the hospital. The Apothecary is still open 24/7. Payment for prescriptions will be by credit or debit card only; no cash will be accepted.”

For more information, visit www.eamc. org.

who meet “screening” criteria for “testing.”

People with symptoms of cough, shortness of breath, and/or fever can contact their physician or 334-528-SICK for “screening.”

Screening And Testing As of 3 p.m. today, our 334-528-SICK hotline had received more than 1,000 calls in the past 24 hours.

We have 12 lines being answered. Hours for the hotline are 8 a.m. – 7 p.m.

At EAMC’s drivethrough collection center at HealthPlus, we had collected 124 specimens as of 4:45 p.m. That brings our total this week to 364.

Specimen collection will continue on Friday, and a decision on Saturday and Sunday appointments will be made on Friday based on available supplies.

We are opening a drive-through collection tent at EAMCLanier tomorrow.

They will see patients, by appointment only, from 10 a.m. – 12 noon and 1 – 4 p.m. eastern time. Appointments will be made through 334-528-SICK. Regarding screening and collection of samples, here’s what the public needs to know: - People having MILD symptoms should treat COVID-19 in a similar way they would the seasonal flu, except not to use ibuprofen. Speak with a pharmacist about which over-the-counter medicines are best for you. Also, isolate yourself from family and friends.

- People who feel they need medical attention should contact their primary care physician or other local provider.

- If the medical provider determines a COVID-19 test is warranted, they will collect the specimen there and submit to ADPH or to

an independent lab. If the physician’s office is out of supplies or do not have the ability to collect, the patient can call 334-528-SICK for evaluation.

- Calls to 334-528SICK should be used when exhibiting the COVID-19 symptoms and possible emergent care is needed.

- Calls to 334-528SICK does not guarantee a COVID-19 specimen will be collected and submitted for testing. Instead, patients will be screened on the phone and if the medical provider on the phone determines a COVID-19 test is warranted, directions will be provided on going to EAMC’s drivethrough collection center.

Blood Donations Must Go On EAMC receives 100 percent of its blood supply from the LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, with the vast majority coming

from the blood center on the main EAMC campus (505 E. Thomason Circle, Opelika).

The blood supply in America is facing an unprecedented challenge due to COVID-19. Large numbers of blood drives are being cancelled daily and donors are increasingly practicing social distancing, as they should.

Hospitals are likely to see critical shortages of blood products occur in the near term if the trajectory does not change. While shortages are not severe today, a critical blood shortage of all blood types will occur if donations simply stop.

If you are healthy and able, we encourage you to call the local LifeSouth office at 334-705-0884 to schedule an appointment. LifeSouth is limiting the number of donors in the center at one time so as to keep donors and staff at appropriate distances.

They are doing the same at their blood drive buses. Below are LifeSouth’s hours of operation: Monday and Thursday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Sunday: 12 – 5 p.m.

EAMC Apothecary offering curbside pickup EAMC’s Apothecary began providing curbside pickup of prescriptions outside of The Surgery Center on the back side of the hospital. It is open from 8 a.m. – 7 p.m. daily. Payment for prescriptions is by credit or debit card only; no cash will be accepted. If someone is picking up a prescription outside of these hours, they will need to call 334-528-2293 to arrange pickup. The Apothecary is EAMC’s retail pharmacy that is open 24/7.

or with underlying health conditions, should stay home.

-Please refrain from brining your dogs to the market during this time.

ALTERNATIVE MARKET STRATEGIES It may become necessary to consider alternative market strategies should the markets be forced to close temporarily, or the customer base become too limited to sustain farmer income. These systems would be designed to minimize the handling for product, minimize person-toperson contact, while maintaining sales for farmers. Utilize the ideas below and get creative to best serve customers in your

area!

-Create a market wide CSA, using your market’s vendors to supply product. Allow customers to pay and order via phone, social media or internet. These systems would be designed to minimize the handling for product, minimize person-toperson contact, while maintaining sales for farmers. Allow customers to pick up in open-air, centralized environment. Schedule pick-up times if crowd size is a concern.

-Consider creating a “drive-thru” option where customers can pick up pre-selected orders in drive thru fashion at the market or another open-air site.

-Add an online ordering system to your market where all market farmers and vendors can participate. Again, the market would aggregate products and use a central pickup location for customers to receive their products.

BUILD CONSUMER CONFIDENCE While it is important to establish guidelines that will strive to keep markets a safe place for our farmers and customers, it is equally important to ease customer concerns and help them feel comfortable coming to a farmers’ market amid the corona virus outbreak. Use social media to promote the efforts you are taking

to ensure consumer safety. In addition to sharing the sanitation practices you are implementing, consider promoting the benefits of markets and local products during this time.

-Know your farmer – you will see the person(s) who grew or produced your food. You can see they are healthy and feel more comfortable with the foods you are feeding your family.

-Food in a farmers’ market is not part of the supply chain that serves other food venues. The limited chain means fewer people handled the food and reduced the risk of contamination.

-Farmers markets are outdoor events –

fresh air is healthy and so it the food at farmers markets -Maintaining a healthy diet of fresh, locally grown foods can increase your overall health. A healthy body is better able to resist and fight disease.

-Promote the efforts the market is taking to minimize the risk to their customers -The latest recommendations from ADPH may be found at: COVID-19-Related Emergency Orders of State Agencies and ADPH News Releases.

As this situation evolves, ADPH will provide updates on their COVID-19 web page at www.alabamapublichealth.gov.

pelika Observer O

A10 March 19, 2020

Auburn Public Library limiting borrowing, suspending due dates Special to the Opelika Observer Beginning March 19, the Auburn Public Library (APL) will no longer allow patrons to borrow any physical items from the collection with the exception of items that were placed on hold by the end of the day on March 18.

Additionally, the library will suspend any due dates through April 10 for items currently borrowed, allowing patrons to keep them for longer, especially if they are practicing social distancing or selfquarantine.

During this time, the APL facility will remain open. In keeping with social distancing guidelines put forth

by public health professionals, the library will provide empty spaces between public computers, and the library will continue to follow and expand upon existing procedures for cleaning and sanitizing the facility.

Patrons are encouraged to check out the APL’s collection of ebooks, digital magazines, and other digital resources, available at auburnalabama.org/library/ online-resources.

Residents without a library card may sign up for one online at books.auburnalabama.org/POLARIS/ logon.aspx to gain access to these resources.

For more information, visit www. auburnalabama.org.

Photo submitted to the Opelika Observer