Video Update for May 1
This is Mayor Paul Brodeur.
Today, Governor Baker issued an order requiring everyone to wear a face covering in public, unless they can stay six feet or more from other people. This new order goes into effect next Wednesday.
As you know, the Melrose Board of Health passed a similar order two weeks ago, requiring face coverings for people who are inside a store or restaurant or another public location where they cannot practice safe physical distancing. Governor Baker’s order makes it explicit that face coverings must be worn outdoors at all times unless you are truly distant from the people around you.
The weather is going to be nice this weekend, so please think about starting your day early. If you’re going for a walk at Mount Hood, one of conservation trails, around Ell Pond or strolling downtown, bring a mask and wear it if the area is crowded. And of course, you must wear a mask if you are going grocery shopping, picking up a prescription, or getting takeout from one of our local restaurants. Face coverings don’t just protect you, they protect the people around you as well, so please take this seriously.
I am very proud of the way Melrose has come together during this pandemic, by making masks, by volunteering, by checking on your neighbors, and by donating to the Emergency Fund. In the past week alone, we have delivered $1,400 worth of groceries purchased through the Emergency Fund as well as food from A Servant’s Heart Food Pantry. This food is going to senior citizens and others who cannot go shopping, or who cannot afford them. This is a great example of your donations going directly to help a neighbor. Thank you all for the many ways you are helping our community get through this difficult time.
And please stay on the look-out for a community survey to get your input on the city’s state-funded Wayfinding and Creative Placemaking Initiative. This initiative is one way that we can be plan for that future, bring more vitality to our public spaces and create a more welcoming environment for our business community and residents alike.
Finally, this morning, at the opening bell of the New York Stock Exchange, the NYSE displayed a photo of Melrose resident Samantha Moriarty, a biomedical technician who is part of the GE Healthcare team that monitors the performance of ventilators. It’s a good reminder that there are all sorts of helpers, some of whom are working behind the scenes. And since today is Friday and we Clap Because We Care, let’s get out there at 7:00 and make some noise to thank all of them for their sacrifices and hard work.
Enjoy the weekend and stay safe out there. Remember, together, we will get through this.