Ok everyone, here is the update. Earlier today, Wisconsin Governor Evers announced on Twitter that he would be ordering all non-essential businesses to shut down in response to the Coronavirus pandemic. This shut down would take effect Tuesday. Shortly after (not to be outdone), Milwaukee’s esteemed Mayor Barrett announced that he was ordering a similar shut down effective immediately. Since our school is located in the City of Milwaukee, I am afraid that despite the great efforts we have taken to keep things safe for everyone, we will be forced to suspend classes, effectively moving us into Stage III (home training).
This was not unexpected, but it is disappointing. Fortunately there is a lot that we can do to continue training. Beginning tomorrow I will be releasing content on Facebook and possibly on our website to give you ideas on how to make the most of your training when stuck at home. Fortunately the weather should be improving soon, and with any luck, so will the crisis.
I am going to suggest we take two weeks to assess the effect of the shut down. Unfortunately it will take time to see what effect the social distancing and isolation measures we are having on the rate of infection. In that time I am going to count on your support of the school, specifically with regards to making your dues payments. Payments can be mailed in to the school, dropped off (use the locked mailbox on the front of the school), or if you prefer, I can also set up online payment options so that you don’t have to go out. Contact me privately if that interests you.
I understand that some of you may have your income effected by the shutdown, and if that is the case, talk to me privately and let’s see what we can do. I will do my best to make sure the content I provide is valuable and worthwhile, and I am hoping you will do your best to continue training on a regular basis.
As I understand the order, we will be allowed to travel to the grocery store, bank, pharmacy, and other essential places. We are also allowed to go outside for exercise (which I recommend), provided we can stay at least 6 feet from other people. When the state lightens the restrictions, we can look at starting up private lessons again, and see who is ready to hit stuff and swing some sticks.
In the mean time, please take precautions, monitor your health, and do your best to stay fit.