The threat of COVID-19 is going to be with us for some time. We must take it seriously. We do not have to panic. Consider: “Two men looked through prison bars – one saw mud, the other stars.” Fear is mostly about perspective. The coronavirus can show no symptoms or is mild in 81 percent of cases. In 14 percent of cases, it can cause severe pneumonia, and in five percent of cases, it can become critical or even fatal. NOTE: This does not mean five percent will die. The number of deaths will continue to decrease as testing numbers increase. The Governor’s Safer at Home order has been in effect since May 4. For those persons who have weakened immune systems or are taking treatments of any kind, or if you have been exposed, or are just not feeling well – it is best to Stay at Home. Also on May 22, Gov. Justice announced that he has signed the executive order that will formally allow businesses to reopen May 26, if they so choose, as part of the next phase of the reopening plan. That executive order went into effect Tuesday, May 26, at 12:01 a.m. Having said that, I have suggested to members of Marlinton Town Council that our regular monthly meeting scheduled for June 1, be held with the following conditions: Call-in, ZOOM, or in-person options will be available for council and the public Tables for council members will be set up in the municipal auditorium Social distancing guidelines will be followed by those attending, with two people sitting at each table Limited seats will be spaced for the general public who wish to attend The front entrance door will be locked at 7 p.m.
![](https://pocahontastimes.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/25/2018/07/Join-community-PT.jpg")
