November 10 2020 Update

We are learning more daily and hourly about the state's new Covid-19 actions.  We spent some time in our directors meeting this morning to talk about it, and there are still some things that are not super clear.  One thing that seems clear is that masks need to be worn indoors and outdoors in public.  This includes in our workplace, with the only exception being for employees in their own offices and cubicles when they are alone.  I told directors this morning that the general rule is that we should try to find reasons to wear masks rather than reasons to take them off.  Safety considerations take precedence over masks if there is a conflict.  Your department director will provide specific guidance for your work.

We also wanted to mention that our friend Warren Merritt in Fleet was recently promoted to the Fleet Manager position in Public Works, replacing Nancy Bean who left us a few weeks ago.  We are excited for Warren and his new responsibility.  If you have other promotions or new employees you would like to highlight, shoot me an email and we will be glad to share their good news here.

CORONAVIRUS STATS

Nationally, the CDC reports 10,546,778 cases with 245,694 fatalities.

Utah:  137,385 cases (up 2,517 from yesterday);  6,284 hospitalizations; 672 deaths (up 11 from yesterday)

Utah County:  35,378 cases (up 663 from yesterday); 1,142 hospitalizations; 98 deaths (up 3 from yesterday)

NEWS YOU CAN USE

• Utah is expecting larger numbers of rapid tests available in the state as universities begin more frequent testing of on-campus students.
• Pfizer is reporting that the clinical trials of the new Covid-19 vaccine is showing 90% effectiveness at preventing the virus from causing illness.  
• Protesters have been spending time in front of the Governor's Mansion and at Governor Herbert's family home in Orem due to the statewide mask mandate.  

PROVO SOCIAL MEDIA

THE MAYOR'S DAY

Today, Mayor Kaufusi:

• Met with the department directors
• Held a meeting with members from the legal department
• Participated in a Utah County Covid-19 Economic Recovery Committee meeting
• Participated in City Council Work Meeting
• Met for City Council meeting

FUN STUFF

This isn't particularly fun, but it has been amazing to me to see the love being expressed for longtime Jeopardy host Alex Trebek.  Somehow he has become a family friend to millions of American game show fans.  I really liked this short tribute on the Today Show Monday morning, reminding us of a life well lived.  In a time when we struggle with issues like division, hatred, bigotry and corruption, having someone who showed us the better side of humanity is worth a moment of pause and reflection.

Thanks everyone.  Have a great rest of your day!

Wayne