Out of caution, Westminster parade called off

The Westminster announcement reads:  “Out of an abundance of caution for citizens, the city of Westminster Christmas Parade is cancelled.”  The parade had been scheduled for Friday night.  Instead, the city pledges to work in a collaborative effort with local organizations and businesses to host a parade and festive holiday market next year.  According to the announcement, COVID-19 infection rates, as reported by the South Carolina DHEC, have increased by 655 cases Oconee County in the last two weeks.  Further, that Oconee has averaged 72 new confirmed cases a day.  Both DHEC and the CDC recommend:  “Staying home is the best way to protect yourself and others from COVID-19.”