Dear Easterns Family,

We feel that it is essential to reach out and inform you that we are closely monitoring updates from the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) regarding COVID-19. We are taking our entire Easterns family, which includes our people, our customers, our suppliers, and our communities into consideration with the measures we have implemented. We recognize the heightened concern, and we are doing everything we can to protect our customers and employees.

We are open and practicing CDC recommendations. Maryland and Virginia are open and following state guidelines. We continue to monitor updates while taking additional precautions.

For transparency- here is the internal memo sent to all employees:

Virginia guidelines state that we fall under a non-essential business that can adhere to requirements to stay open. Those requirements are for 10 or less patrons (not including staff) in the location at any time, and maintain CDC recommended social distancing guidance.

Maryland guidelines require us to follow set CDC guidelines.

We will be providing all stores with additional disinfectant supplies to include:

Sanitizing Wipes with Refillable Dispenser

• Disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily.
• Do not dispose of the refillable dispenser.

Hand Sanitizer with Refillable Dispenser

• Mount refillable dispensers in the showroom, settlement office, and tower.
• Do not dispose of the refillable dispenser.

Based on the guidance from the CDC, please see the following information to reduce risk of workplace transmission:

Clean Your Hands Often

• Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.
• If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.
• Avoid touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.

Stay Home if You’re Sick

• Stay home if you are sick, except to get medical care.

Cover Coughs and Sneezes

• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue when you cough or sneeze or use the inside of your elbow.
• Throw used tissues in the trash.
• Immediately wash your hands with soap and water for at least 20 seconds. If soap and water are not readily available, clean your hands with a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol.

Clean and Disinfect

• Clean AND disinfect frequently touched surfaces daily. This includes tables, doorknobs, light switches, countertops, handles, desks, phones, keyboards, toilets, faucets, and sinks.
• If surfaces are dirty, clean them: Use detergent or soap and water prior to disinfection.

We are committed to your health and safety, and we will provide updates on this rapidly evolving situation.

Thank you for your dedication to Easterns!

Yours truly,

Robert Bassam
Founder