The increase in the numbers reported yesterday was alarming. I realize part of the reason we are seeing the rapid increase is because more people are being tested but also, more people are being exposed. Unfortunately, this means there are people we are coming in contact with every day who in all probability are carrying the virus or they have been exposed to someone who has tested positive. IF you know or even suspect you have been exposed to someone with the virus, PLEASE quarantine yourself for fourteen days. I cannot stress enough the importance of social distancing. This virus is not playing games and neither should we. In a meeting yesterday, we were told it would be several weeks before this virus would peek. This is going to be a marathon event, not a short race. I can’t stress enough, our lives and the lives of our family, friends and the community depend on us doing our part.
This is a very stressful time for all of us so again, I would urge you to be a good neighbor. If you live close to someone who is elderly, disabled or working long hours and needs a helping hand, please do what you can to help them. It could be something as simple as pulling their trash out for pick up, cutting their grass or maybe a phone call just to see if they need assistance or an encouraging word. Just remember to take all precautions, remaining in a safe distance to protect yourself and those you are trying to help.
It has been called to my attention there are many scams in place involving the stimulus checks. Please be careful who you release your information to and don’t become a victim to these criminals. The federal government will not ask you to confirm your personal or banking information by email, phone or text nor will they demand a processing fee to expedite your stimulus payment.
Also, until this pandemic is over, Waste Management has asked we refrain or limit the amount of non-essential waste placed at the curb such as bulky and yard waste materials. They will not be picking up bulk collection such as furniture, carpet, mattresses and appliances. Once their work force returns to pre-pandemic levels, these services will resume and we will be notified accordingly.
Again, let me say how much we appreciate everyone who is working on the front lines, not only doing their part but going over and beyond. Our doctors, nurses, hospital staff, the staff working in the nursing homes and home health, ambulance attendants, the City Police Department, Sheriff’s Department, firefighters and all other essential personnel, especially those working in the dollar stores, convenience stores, fast food restaurants and hardware stores, we want to say thank you! I might add, if you are ordering fast food or take out service for yourself or your family, please patronize our local restaurants . Our first option should always be to shop at home when at all possible.
DeQuincy, if we want our community to survive, we must work together to not only flatten the curve but do our part in stopping the spread of this virus.
/s/ Mayor Riley Smith