Video Update for Tuesday, March 31

Good evening Melrose, this is your Mayor Paul Brodeur.

Today, Governor Baker announced that he is extending the stay-at-home advisory and order to close all non-essential businesses until May 4. You and our friends and neighbors across the country, have faced unprecedented changes which are all vital to our efforts in flattening the curve and protecting our community.

However, there are many people in our community who, despite the risks inherent in their jobs, are still showing up and stepping up to help see us through this pandemic. These folks include our Firefighters, Police officers, Medical professionals at Melrose Wakefield Hospital, and our Department of Public Works employees. For them, there is no option to work at home. To recognize and thank these everyday heroes, Lisa Lord, has launched Operation CommUNITY, a campaign to boost the morale of the folks working on the front lines on a daily basis. Ms. Lord, a Melrose High History teacher and founder of the Melrose Veterans Memory Project, has created this simple but incredibly important program. Each week, community members are encouraged to send by mail, cards and notes to the people in Melrose who are performing these important jobs. You can find out more by visiting the Melrose Veterans Memory Project on Facebook. And you certainly do not need to limit your efforts to the groups listed!

We have been talking a lot about social distancing, but what we are really mean is physical distancing. We actually need to socialize more during this time. Right now, many of us are physically isolated, no longer going to work or going out to eat or even just chatting when we pick up our kids from school. So organize a “Not on my porchfest”, a virtual scrabble game, a “wave to your neighbor” check-in, or wherever your imagination takes you. OR simply organize a new way to show appreciation for others, like Ms. Lord has done with Operation CommUNITY. I have already seen our residents do amazing things to keep each other connected during this challenging time. Keep it up.

Finally, a brief update on reported cases. Melrose now has 29 reported cases of COVID-19, and no deaths. I want to thank all of you for doing your part. Together, we will get through this.