Murphy – A local official devised a creative way to encourage people to wear masks and help slow the spread of COVID-19.
Councilwoman Gail Walker Stansell used private funds to purchase four plastic signs bearing the slogan, “Remember M.O.M. … Masks on Murphy.” The center of the signs displays the town’s official seal with a mask superimposed over it.
“I think it really conveys [the notion] that we need to take care of our loved ones, protect them and wear masks,” Stansell told the Cherokee Scout.
Stansell placed one of the signs outside of her home on Valley River Avenue, where she also decorated a tree with a mask to further illustrate her point. Two of the signs were placed near the town limits signs to remind motorists to wear masks. The fourth sign was placed near McDonald’s at the corner of U.S. 64 West and Hiwassee Street.
The decision to create signs reiterating the U.S. Centers for Disease Control & Prevention’s recommendation to wear a mask was solely Stansell’s. However, her fellow council members supported the idea when she told them about it at the Aug. 3 meeting.
Gov. Roy Cooper issued an executive order mandating masks with exceptions on June 24. However, the Town of Murphy has not issued any official order or guidance on wearing masks in public settings.
While local officials recognize that some people may have health issues that prevent them from wearing masks, they encourage residents and visitors to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
“People have the freedom and the
personal responsibility to make their own choices,” Stansell said. “I would just encourage them to make the choice to protect other people, as well as themselves, and wear a mask if they can and if they feel comfortable in doing so.”
She made about 60 smaller paper copies of her sign to distribute to local businesses, if they choose to display one. People can pick up a sign at city hall during regular business hours.
“I’m glad to do this for the Town of Murphy,” Stansell said.