Community Update: September 4, 2020
Dear Cedar Lane residents, family & friends,
On Tuesday, Governor Hogan announced the beginning of Stage 3 of the ‘Maryland Strong: Roadmap to Recovery’. Starting 5 p.m. today, the order allows movie theaters and live entertainment venues to reopen and increases capacity from 50% to 75% at retail shops and religious services.
Does This Mean Everything is Back to Normal?
No, many restrictions are still in place. Face coverings and social distancing are still required. The Governor’s order also states that, for now at least, senior centers must remain closed.
How Will Stage Three Reopening Orders Impact Life Here at Cedar Lane?
The Governor’s order did not directly address senior living communities. Cedar Lane will continue to follow the latest guidance of county leaders and health department officials. We will keep you informed of any changes to our current policies or procedures, which for now all remain in place.
Visitor Access for Legitimate Caretakers
For every resident who is thankful for the strict precautions we implemented back in March, another wants to see those restrictions relaxed. Our goal is to strike a safe balance. We know many family members used to support residents with important tasks like housekeeping and changing linens. If a resident’s wellbeing has been compromised by visitor restrictions at Cedar Lane, please call the Front Desk at 301-475-8966 and ask to speak with one of our two Service Coordinators: Kirk or Crystal. Your situation may qualify as legitimate caretaking and your family member could be granted access.
COVID-19 Community Hotline Closing Today
As part of the Stage 3 recovery, the Covid-19 Community Hotline will close as of 5 p.m. today. Anyone with questions relating to COVID-19 may call the St. Mary’s County Health Department directly at (301) 475-4330.
Parking Considerations
With all entry into Cedar Lane limited to the front door, parking spaces in front of the Church Building are in high demand. If you use your vehicle infrequently, please be considerate of your neighbors and park in the outer parking areas, if you are physically able to do so.
Labor Day Closings & Announcements
- Cedar Lane’s offices will be closed on Monday, Sept. 7
- Next week’s home-delivered meals from the Department of Aging & Human Services will be delivered on Tuesday, Sept. 8.
- All St. Mary’s County administrative offices will be closed on Labor Day.
- The St. Mary’s Transit System (STS) and the Specialized Statewide Transportation Assistance Program (SSTAP) will be closed Monday, Sept. 7. STS will operate on a regular schedule Sept. 6 and 8. SSTAP will resume its regular schedule Sept. 8.
- All St. Mary’s County Libraries will be closed Monday, Sept. 7, 2020.
Atlantic Hurricane Season
As if 2020 hasn’t been challenging enough, September 10 marks the peak of a record-breaking Atlantic hurricane season. It is not too late to be prepared. See Channel 2 for a list of items that should be in your emergency kit.
Sign Up for CodeRED Weather Warnings
The CodeRED Emergency Notification System makes calls to relay vital weather information. Sign up online at www.stmarysmd.com/emergencycodered.asp. For more information, call the Department of Emergency Services at 301-475-4200, extension 72110.
November 3 Election Day Voting Questions Answered
Can I vote by mail?
Yes. The state will mail every voter an application to request an absentee ballot, also known as a mail-in ballot. This application must be returned by October 20— either on paper or online — for you to receive an official ballot. If it is after Oct. 20 and you would like a mail-in ballot, you may show up in person at your local elections board and exchange your ballot application for a blank ballot.
Can I vote early?
Absolutely. You are encouraged to do so. Mail-in ballots may be sent back as soon as you have filled them out. If you prefer or need to vote in person, early voting centers open in every county at 7 a.m. Monday, Oct. 26, and will stay open until 8 p.m. every day through the election. Locations will be posted well in advance. You may vote at any early-voting center in your home county.
When do I need to mail or drop off my ballot?
By no later than Election Day, Nov. 3. Ballots either must be in a drop box or postmarked as of that day, which means that if you mail the ballot on Nov. 3, you must do so before that day’s mail pickup. It would be safer to mail it earlier.
How do I ensure my vote is counted?
You can visit https://voterservices.elections.maryland.gov/VoterSearch to track whether your ballot application has been processed and whether your application has been mailed to you — and, after you turn it in or mail it back, whether it has been accepted.
Are you registered?
Make sure that you are registered to vote well in advance of Election Day. If you would like assistance with registering to vote, please call the Front Desk and ask for Kirk or Crystal.
Questions & Comments
Please feel free to reach out by e-mail or telephone. We love hearing from you and we greatly appreciate the overwhelming support from our residents, families and friends. Additionally, if there is anything you think we can be doing better, we’d love to hear that feedback too. Please call Wanda Fenwick at 301-475-8966 ext. 24 or email [email protected]
Sincerely,
Beverly Stickles
President & CEO
Cedar Lane Senior Living Community