An update from us on how we're handling the COVID-19 crisis

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   We are sharing this information to let you know how we at the newspaper are handling this crisis caused by the COVID-19 virus. We are putting the safety of our team and community as the top priority, while continuing with our mission. Community journalism has never been more vital. We greatly appreciate your readership and our advertising partners.
   The Northeast Georgian is open. However, we closed our lobby on March 23.
   The day we closed our lobby, we also stopped delivery drivers, the staff’s family members and anyone not a member of our team from entering the building. Following CDC guidelines, each morning we have wiped down our desks, doors, copier, and break room and cleaned the bathrooms. Our hands are chapped from washing. We had already begun social distancing.
   Reporter Eric Pereira has been working from home for the last two weeks. The last time he was in our office was March 20.
   On Thursday, April 2, a member of our team who had been working from home for three weeks, worked in our office for a few hours. This team member had been diagnosed with bronchitis March 15. Thursday night, the associate had problems breathing, so she went to the emergency room to be checked, and a COVID-19 test was administered.
   On Saturday, April 4, the associate contacted Alan NeSmith to let him know she had tested positive. Immediately following the call, in the utmost of precaution, Alan contacted everyone on our team to share the information, ask them to self-quarantine, let them know the front office would be closed for 14 days and to seek medical advice from a professional.
   On Sunday, April 5, all computers and desks were cleaned, and associates were allowed to enter the building wearing a mask and gloves. They came in one-by-one to retrieve their computers so they can work from home. Our phone lines have been transferred to allow them to continue to be answered during business hours.
   Fortunately, no one from the press crew or mailroom was exposed to our associate who tested positive. Both facilities have been cleaned thoroughly according to CDC guidelines. Our press and mailroom crews will continue to work. However, when they are in the building, they will be wearing a mask and gloves and will wash their hands every hour at a minimum. Any associate in our building for the next 14 days will be required to wear a mask and gloves.
   With safety as the top priority for our staff and community, we will continue to serve Habersham County.
   Together, we will get through this. 

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