​Dear Chamber Member, Business Owner and Citizen:
 
We know there is a great deal of concern and uncertainty out there surrounding the recent surge in COVID-19 numbers and its potential impact on your small business.  We also know that the vast majority of the bars, restaurants and retailers in our county have done a great job following the guidelines that have been put in place.  That is why we want to take a moment to remind you of a few things you can do to help remind your patrons and staff to ensure your doors stay open:
 
The Facts
 
There has been an order in place since April to limit gatherings to no more than 10 people.  
Despite the order, there is rampant spread of the virus from private social gatherings, banquets, wedding receptions and other widely attended events.  
A new order will place significant new restrictions on these social activities. The new order requires everyone to be seated with a face covering unless they are actively consuming food or drinks and prohibits things such as dancing and games.  
If the trend continues and cases keep increasing it would appear restaurants, bars, and gyms will be forced to close.  
These are locations where it is difficult or impossible to maintain mask-wearing as people congregate in close proximity for extended periods of time.  
What Can You Do?
 
Post a Face Covering Requirement sign at each public entrance (see attached printable sign for your use).  This is now required following the directive set forth by Governor DeWine on Wednesday evening.  
Monitor establishment to ensure customers and employees are abiding by the face covering and social distancing guidelines set forth by the State of Ohio.  This would include individuals that gather or congregate with others that are not a part of the group with whom they arrived.  
Designate the manager on duty (or owner) to serve as the conduit for patrons who are not cooperating by those guidelines.  
Shoot a video of you in your establishment and post on your social media accounts.  “We know these are challenging and confusing times, but my/our business cannot take another shutdown. Please respect those around you by wearing a mask and maintain proper social distancing when you are in public. If everyone plays by the rules we will be able to stay open. Be Safe. Be Smart. Respect Others.”  This is simply a recommendation, so feel free to use your own words in your video.  
Print/Post the attachments in your place of business and/or on your social media accounts.  You could also use language similar to that used in the previous bullet in the social media post.  
We believe that reminding your customers of the detrimental impact more closures will have on your business the more likely they will be to “play by the rules”.