Chair’s Letter – May 2020

Goodbye, April!  Hello May!  We have had quite the chaotic introduction to Spring.

I know there is a lot of pressure out there.   Whether you are a health care worker, another type of essential worker, or working from home, you may be feeling the realities of our temporary norm.  Certainly, if you’ve had to reduce or suspend operations, things can be overwhelming.  Fittingly, May is National Mental Health Month.  Quarantine, social distancing, and other realities that come along with the COVID-19 pandemic can hurt your mental health, but it doesn’t have to be all bad.  It is important that you’re able to recognize that your mental state is declining.  That may look or feel like decreased or lack of motivation, becoming easily irritable, sadness, and inability to focus among other symptoms. While adhering to CDC recommendations and guidelines, it is possible to remain in control of your mental well being.  Some tips to boost your mood (or prevent decline) and remain compliant to social distancing guidelines are: going on walks with your family, opening up the windows to allow a breeze (if allergies aren’t an issue), using a live video stream app such as Zoom or Skype to keep in touch with friends and family, taking frequent breaks if working on computers, and exercising regularly to increase mood-boosting endorphins.  Although not a complete list, this is a great starting point.

Social distancing has not stopped the Chamber team’s dedication to the community.  We continue to highlight and promote local businesses, provide information on small business loan options, and conduct webinars and virtual networking.  The team is available via phone and email; please do not hesitate to reach out.  Are you looking to get out of the house and have some fun while still complying with social distancing guidelines?  Join us for a social distancing scavenger hunt on May 16th.  See our website and Facebook page for more details.  Please also join us for virtual networking every Thursday at noon via Zoom.  Be advised the annual trivia night has been rescheduled for July 24th and the annual chamber golf tournament to July 31st.  Check the chamber website often for updates on events and virtual gatherings.

Please continue to practice social distancing and comply with CDC guidelines and recommendations.  I look forward to seeing you in person soon.  Be safe!

Dr. Misty C. Farr, Pharm.D.
Greater North County Chamber Board Chair