In the past several days, we have been made aware of several gatherings in our community in which social distancing guidelines were blatantly violated.

Many of these instances violating social distancing rules included teenagers. Kids, please stay home. I know how tough it is not being allowed to socialize and hang out with your friends, but the longer we ignore the President’s and Governor’s requests of us, the longer it will take for us to flatten the curve and the longer it will takes for us to return to normal. Parents and guardians, please be sure that you are a part of the team and respect these guidelines. As a dad and a pappaw, I know it’s tough to say no. But, that is your duty.

Although the CDC recommends gatherings of no more than 10 people, while still maintaining the social distancing requirements, of course the fewer, the better. President Trump and Governor Beshear have both stressed this importance.  I don’t know how they could make it any clearer.

I know that these guidelines will prove especially difficult on this upcoming holiday weekend rendering us unable to rejoice in our houses of worship or to celebrate with our friends and family. I ask that we stay at home and find other ways to celebrate this Easter.

If you need to go out for provisions or essentials, please maintain the six feet distancing guideline and wear a face cloth covering. I know we were all raised to be friendly, but a wave and a smile will have to do for now.

The main testament of our faith is how we care for one another. Faith teaches us to be about something bigger than ourselves: We communicate our commitment to each other through sacrifice.

This is a critical time in our country’s history and in our community’s history. Many people and their families are making great sacrifices so that we all stay healthy and safe.

Every generation in our nation has been asked to make sacrifices so that we can live free. The only sacrifice we’re asking you to make is to stay home. Plain and simple.

To blatantly ignore these rules and guidelines disrespects and disregards the sacrifices of our doctors, nurses, service industry workers, grocery store employees, transportation workers and others, who put their bodies on the frontlines so that we may live safely and comfortably.

We are our brother’s keeper. In OBKY, we take care of one another and we always rise to the occasion where community is concerned.

Stay home, stay safe, stay healthy and Happy Easter to everyone in our community.

  
  Mayor Tom Watson

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