March 20, 2020
My Dear Arlington Link Sisters,
Spring is in the air, the cherry blossoms are in bloom, and we are facing a pandemic that generations have never seen. The Coronavirus (COVID-19) has suddenly shifted our lives in many ways. We all must develop a new normal in order to deal with these difficult times. We must remain vigilant and conscious of the things we have been advised to do for ourselves, our families and our communities to prevent additional spreading of the virus. Information is fluid and plentiful.
Our 17
th
National President, and beloved chapter member, Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard has formed a National COVID-19 Task Force that provides weekly updates to keep us abreast of the many changes as they continue to work closely with public health experts, emergency management officials, and state and federal health officials.
The National President sent a letter this week dated March 18
th
, providing guidance and updates on meeting requirements, service hours, dues collection, candidate orientations and inductions, and registration for our 42
nd
National Assembly. If you have not already done so, I would strongly advise you to read this message as it contains a wealth of information that pertains to each of us.
Our Eastern Area Director, Shuana Tucker-Sims, Ph.D., has also published several communications regarding this pandemic including resources that will help us manage our well-being during this crisis. Of special note is the teleconference Link Shuana is hosting on
Sunday, March 22, at 8:00 p.m. for tips on stress management and a Q&A on coping during these uncertain times. The dial-in information is: (605) 313-5111; Access code: 830-678#.
As Chapter President, I established the Arlington Operations Task Force to help as we maneuver through COVID-19’s impact on chapter operations. The Executive Council, Monte Carlo Committee and Task Force Members have met several times this week to determine the way ahead as we receive guidance from our leadership.
As for our Monte Carlo 2020, I sent a letter to the Crystal Gateway Marriott Sales Manager last Friday informing the hotel management of our decision to postpone the event. We are feverishly working to reschedule the Monte Carlo and Links Bridget and Candice are in regular talks with the Marriott to ensure that when we do have our signature fundraising event that it will be even more fabulous than what was planned for March 14
th
. As I mentioned before, this was not an easy decision, but it was certainly the right decision. Our Chapter Chaplain, Link Cheryl Coleman-Hall offered a very timely and appropriate prayer which I have shared with you at the bottom of this message.
As you responsibly practice self-isolation or social distancing, be sure to make good use of the time by maybe making a dent in that pile of books you have been meaning to get to, or working on your physical well-being by performing 7-minute workouts offered on MyFitnessPal and the 7 Club app. The Netflix series,
Self Made Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker
is available now. No matter how you decide to spend this time please know that your chapter leadership is working on your behalf.
I thank you for your patience and understanding. Together, we are better.
Be safe, be kind, and stay positive.
Yours in Linkdom,
Link Diane
Diane M. Harley
President
Arlington (VA) Chapter