City issues stern memo on Friday afternoon in response to lack of compliance with the shelter-in-place order: Do. Not. Congregate.
In response to the continuing rise of COVID-19 cases in Alameda County and to promote adherence to the existing shelter-in-place order, the City of Piedmont has decided to close all City tennis courts and play structures as well as Beach Field and Coaches Field effective immediately.
As of today outdoor activity such as walking, hiking and running are allowed as long as specific social distancing requirements are followed.
The potential for escalation of this event is real. Assume that anyone outside your home could be carrying the virus.
Please comply with the spirit of the order by staying home unless absolutely necessary.
In past days and again this afternoon, I also have seen the groups of (mostly girl) teens walking around elbow-to-elbow. Too many in the groups, too close in age, to all be siblings. This saddens and distresses me. What a great opportunity to teach our wonderful town’s youth to be considerate of our community members. Your friends will (hopefully) all be here to socialize with weeks/months from now but if you continue to act selfishly, someone’s grandparent or parent might not be.
another way to look at it: Assume YOU could be carrying the virus and need to protect your friends, neighbors, and the vulnerable people you might not know.
I am reluctant to decry teenagers because they can (sometimes unfairly) be an easy target. However, groups of unrelated teenagers continue to walk about town together, meet up and fail to maintain social distance. Where are their parents?
As I have walked around Piedmont the last 5 days, I have come to some conclusions about social distancing. I share them so all readers can be forewarned.
THOSE WHO UNDERSTAND AND/OR CARE
Seniors
Mothers with young children
Individuals over 50
THOSE WHO DON’T UNDERSTAND AND/OR CARE
Teenagers
College age students
Joggers