Summer 2020 Reflection

As the days get shorter and the nights get cooler, I just wanted to reflect on the Summer of 2020. So many people have had to change their plans which has contributed to a frustrating season, to say the very least. As we continue into Fall, there are going to be even more frustrations from everyone who are just plain and simply “tired of this virus.” Although we all may be tired of it, a quick look at the current statistics show that it is still very active in Fayette County at the moment. So, we need to remain very cautious at this point. 

One thing most everyone realized during this time is the importance and luxury of being able to get outside and enjoy the great outdoors. Luckily for those in this area, the great outdoors just happens to be in our backyard. One does not have to travel very far to find a trail, a picnic location, a great view or even a river to jump into. The entire outdoor recreation industry has benefited greatly from this migration for sure. Kayaks, RVs, Bikes, ATVs as well as campsites have been hard to come by due to the overwhelming popularity that this virus has caused. Even though your favorite trail may be overcrowded, there are still an abundance of others that you can choose. Take the time to explore ALL that the area has to offer. Maybe you will find a new favorite trail. I know my family and I have!

At the Town of Fayetteville, we have tried to do everything in our power to protect those that live and play here. I feel that the Mayor and Town Council have done a fantastic job. However, many variables are beyond our control and out of reach of our authority. The Town does not have a rafting company within its boundaries, nor does it have the authority to restrict operations of these businesses. I would like to commend the efforts of everyone in the rafting industry in taking overwhelming measures to keep their guests and employees safe during this time. It has been amazing to watch the local businesses adapt to these times. Many have come up with new ways to thrive and capitalize on the shift this has caused. It is exciting to see the reissuance of these small businesses as well as welcoming new businesses to the Town.

I would like to offer a big expression of thanks to Teri Harlan, Dr. Anita Stewart, and their entire team at the Fayette County Health Department for their exceptional efforts during these times. There is no question that they have had the most difficult and criticized jobs in all of Fayette County. The tough decisions that they have had to make for over 6 months now has to be exhausting. Thank you for all that you have done during this unprecedented time. I would like to express my gratitude to all the great service personnel, first responders and leaders throughout the entire county. 

In closing, I want to remind everyone to “Mask Up” and do your part to control the spread of this virus. I know everyone is “tired of this thing” but we must continue to press on and practice social distancing until this goes away. We can do this. Please be respectful and kind to one another. We are all having to deal with this in different ways and there is no playbook to lead us through.  Each one of us has a very important role to play to fight this pandemic together. Please put your own feelings aside and be considerate and respectful of others. “Bro. Be Nice.”

I hope you all take care and please reach out if there is anything that I can do to assist you.