As we are about to walk through the gates of Summer and celebrate Memorial Day. I am thinking about how many have sacrificed so much for this country. I am deeply grateful to all who have served to protect and preserve this nation. And I am grateful to those who are now working as essential workers–our grocery checkers, medical providers, school lunch makers, food bank volunteers, and so many more. THANK YOU. I hope we can keep you all safe and healthy. I will honor your service by following the public health recommendations to wash hands frequently, socially distance, and wear a mask while out in public.
The Board of Health and County Council met again today and have passed a resolution asking for a variance to move San Juan County to phase 2. As much as I am looking forward to getting my hair cut, I am concerned as many folks are not abiding by the current restrictions and this weekend’s ferry reservations (Monday’s boats to Anacortes are all full) indicate that this will be a very busy weekend. As much as we all want to get back to normal, a surge of visitors will bring more exposure for all, especially our essential workers. To that end, Paul Berry, a mental health professional (www.thero.org) and Ed Andrews, OICF trustee and communications professional, has been working on providing tips and skill development to help businesses reopen safely and avoid confrontations. See the pdf here and please feel free to share it widely.
We are beginning to plan a community process to develop an action plan for economic recovery and community resiliency. Our hope is to develop a plan that is both bold and aspirational, while rooted in shared vision and capabilities. I look forward to sharing more about this next step as we move forward.
I hope you have some time this weekend to relax and renew.
Stay well,
Hilary