Due to the recent spike in COVID-19 cases in the state and more specifically our county, the Lodi District Chamber of Commerce has changed our "business as normal" model. Last week, we talked about the changes we've been implementing and then a thought occurred to me. Why not all businesses? We know most businesses in our community are doing their best to adhere to the long list of guidelines- you can find specific industry guidelines in our re-opening toolkit here- and for that, we applaud you. But how are we conveying those safety measures to our community? In order to make it transparent and easy for members of the community, and YOUR customers, to see which businesses are taking safety precautions seriously, we put together a Safety & Cleanliness Pledge campaign. Businesses take the pledge and we will have those businesses listed on our website for Lodians to find. 

The Safety & Cleanliness Pledge states that: 
• Businesses will be compliant with state and local county health guidelines
• Add increased cleaning and sanitation measures to their routines
• Require and encourage all consumers to wear a mask for the duration they are inside your place of business
• Restructure your business to allow for social distancing and spacing between customers 

 We also recognize that most industries go even further than this pledge to ensure the safety of their employees and consumers. But we call on leaders, influencers, business owners to click here and fill out the pledge for transparency to the public that you have their health and safety as a priority. 

In lighter news, the Chamber is excited to share that the Lodi Certified Farmers Market is changing times back to nights! Since California has begun to open and people are going back to work, the morning market that served members of the community while shelter in place was effect has run its course. The community spoke & we listened. As of Thursday, July 9, the market will be 5PM - 8PM at 267 N. Mills (First Baptist Church parking lot). This way, our market goes into the evening with the Delta Breeze and food trucks providing dinners-to-go. Fresh produce will be available and your favorite farmers are excited to welcome you. Thank you for your flexibility and continued support, Lodi!