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Column:Local officials discuss how they're leading Orange County through crisis-The Daily Tar Heel <br /> Stewart: This pandemic is very different from what North Carolina experienced with H1N1 in 2009. As <br /> difficult as it is, I ask everyone to remain vigilant in practicing health and safety precautions. If we <br /> remember to move in a way that honors and protects our neighbors, I'm confident we'll get through this a <br /> stronger, more united community. The health department has created a COVID-19 website with a wealth <br /> of knowledge, including health information, mental health resources, housing assistance and much more. <br /> Jeffries: This has been one of the most difficult crises our community has faced, because the impact is not <br /> restricted to an area, and it's invisible. Our residents are definitely the "leaders" in the community by <br /> encouraging and practicing the guidelines. I've always used the African proverb "It takes a village" when <br /> referring to raising a child. It applies to this pandemic and taking care of one another more than ever. Our <br /> nonprofits can use your help, too. Consider donating to local food pantries and other nonprofits in the area. <br /> Consider volunteering, and continue checking on neighbors who are in vulnerable and at-risk populations. <br /> Seils: I'm one of about 40 local elected officials in Orange County. We're used to residents bringing <br /> us questions and advocating for the community. In a public health emergency, how can local elected <br /> officials be most useful? <br /> Stewart and Jeffries: Keep pushing the pandemic precaution messages, and stay consistent. Encourage <br /> everyone to continue practicing the three Ws. Continue representing your community by being a voice of <br /> reason. The most important part our elected officials play is maintaining calm and making sure the <br /> community has accurate information about the response and recovery. <br /> There you have it: Know your three Ws, stay informed and help your neighbors. We're in this together. <br /> If you have questions about how you can help Orange County battle the COVID-19 pandemic,please <br /> contact the county's COVID-19 hotline at 919-245-6111. If you live in Orange County and want to make <br /> your voice heard on something you care about locally, email city@dailytarheel.com. <br /> @DTHCityState I city@dailytarheel.com <br /> Sign up for the OC Report and get all the <br /> Chapel Hill, Carrboro, Hillsborough news <br /> delivered to your inbox every week! <br /> First Name <br /> Last Name <br /> I <br /> Email` <br /> https://www.dailytarheel.com/article/2020/09/city-oc-column-damon-0914[9/15/20, 10:47:03 AM] <br />