Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley Implores People To Wear Masks This Holiday Weekend: 'We Want To Keep Tarrant County Open'
FORT WORTH (CBSDFW.COM) - Tarrant County Judge Glen Whitley took to Twitter Thursday afternoon wishing everyone a happy July 4th weekend and reminding citizens to wear masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19.
"A week ago I issued an order requiring everyone wear a mask going into businesses," Judge Whitley said in a video on Twitter while wearing a mask. "You know I really hope anytime you go out into the public that you will wear the mask."
On Tuesday and Wednesday, the county has reported more than 600 new cases each day.
"It's an inconvenience I understand, but one that hopefully will keep Tarrant County open," Judge Whitley said about the mask reminder which he repeated multiple times in his approximately minute-long message.
"I think as a courtesy and being responsible and respectful of our our friends and family and those folks around us, it's a small inconvenience and it's certainly one we can accomplish by not having to close down businesses by doing that."
"Enjoy the 4th. Please wear the masks," Judge Whitley concluded. "We want to keep Tarrant County open."
Meantime, with COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations more than doubling since June 1, Tarrant County Public Health also urged residents to stay home as much as possible during the upcoming holiday.
"We want people to enjoy their Fourth of July, but in a healthy and safe way," said Director of Public Health Vinny Taneja. "And the way to do that is to avoid inviting friends and neighbors over or having a party. Just enjoy the holiday with your immediate household members and families," he said.
He advised people to avoid large gatherings and to enjoy Fourth of July fireworks displays from a safe distance, while staying in your vehicle. "Now is not the best time for normal Fourth of July activities. Since we are still in a pandemic, it's important that we celebrate the holiday safely," Taneja said.
