By now it is apparent that our lives are very different than they used to be. Schools are closed, restaurants are take-out only, the County has issued a stay-at-home order, the Governor declared a state of emergency and has issued a statewide stay-at-home order, and the news media have emphasized Covid-19. The point is to slow the spread of the Covid-19 virus, which is necessary because of intense demands on the health care system (including first responders) as well as the inherently long time that it takes to develop a vaccine. It has been heartening to see the sense of community that has emerged in our local area in response to the pandemic. For instance, Nextdoor has an abundance of posts about neighbors helping neighbors. Let’s hope that community spirit continues.

Meanwhile, please understand that “stay-at-home” doesn’t mean “do not go out of your residence”. Exceptions to the order speak to essential needs - such as getting food. Obviously, using good judgement and observing safety precautions apply. It is important to maintain a 6-foot social distance, cover your mouth if you cough or sneeze, don’t shake hands or touch your face, wash hands for 20 seconds minimum, use alcohol-based wipes on surfaces like door handles and grocery carts and don’t hoard.

Exercise is one of the essential needs given for leaving home (unless quarantined or infected), since exercise is crucial for heath and well-being. Though their community centers, pools and restrooms are closed, all our local parks are open as normal so we can enjoy open space and fresh air and to give our dogs a place to exercise, too. Park users to are urged to observe social-distancing guidelines and follow sanitary recommendations. Note, however, that the situation is fluidic. Big-time changes can happen any day. To keep up with the rapid developments, please stay in touch with the county, state and federal public health sites. By working together (at a safe distance, of course) we can help Flatten The Curve.