A group of local leaders will hold a press conference to launch a campaign encouraging the public to “Protect. Respect. Wear Your Mask.” in public spaces in order to support local Phase 2 opening efforts and slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

The media is invited to attend the press conference, which be held Wednesday, May 20 at 4 p.m. at the Abel Maldonado Community Youth Center, located at 600 S. McClelland Street in Santa Maria. Socially distanced seating will be provided for members of the media who attend the event.

The State of California recently agreed to new civic reopening guidelines for Santa Barbara County; they include the exclusion of Lompoc Prison inmate COVID-19 cases in official counts. Therefore, local businesses may have the opportunity to reopen soon. The Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce is joining with the cities of Santa Maria, Lompoc and Guadalupe, Marian Regional Medical Center, Allan Hancock College and other community stakeholders in promoting the “Protect. Respect. Wear Your Mask.” campaign to urge residents to protect themselves, their families, and community members from the virus.

Speakers at the press conference will include Santa Maria Valley Chamber of Commerce President and CEO Glenn Morris, Santa Maria Mayor Alice Patino, Lompoc Mayor Jenelle Osborne, President and CEO of Marian Regional Medical Center Sue Andersen and Allan Hancock College Superintendent/President Kevin G. Walthers, Ph.D.

The speakers will be available for questions and interviews after the press conference. A news release with additional information about the “Protect. Respect. Wear Your Mask.” campaign will be available via email prior to the press conference.

For additional questions, contact Lauren Milbourne at lauren.milbourne@hancockcollege.edu, or 1-805-922-6966 ext. 3779.