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To the Citizens of Orange, Texas

Blessings to each and every one of you! I wish to take a moment of your time in order to convey a few thoughts and suggestions as we begin to experience a new chapter of life in this community. There have been many changes that we have had to endure as a result of COVID-19 and this current situation is far from over. We have faced several adversities the last few years and once again we find ourselves striving to overcome yet another inclement situation. COVID-19 has created a completely new adversary for our community but I truly feel within my heart that we will get through this just as we have done many times in the past. Like a whirlwind the entire country has been thrown into unfamiliar territory, yet we must continue to stand strong and work together to overcome the obstacle before us. Today I pray to inspire each and every one of you to be “Hopeful”. Hosea 2:15 reads “God is the only one who can make the valley of trouble a door of hope.” This is one of the many reasons why we must continue to put God first in all that we do, for God alone has the final word.

Statistics have improved in some areas of the United States while others are continuing to experience an increase in confirmed cases. The reopening of Texas must be taken with caution and I sincerely ask each of you to follow the guidelines which have been set by our Governor and his administration. Retail, restaurants, public buildings etc. have been opened with a restriction of operation at 25 percent of maximum occupancy for the establishment. The curfew for the City of Orange has been lifted yet we have not reopened the parks and public play areas. The next few weeks will be a new experience for us all, yet I want each of you to understand that I want you to do what you feel is best for you and your family. Continue to social distance and refrain from gathering in large groups. I know that the urge to return to normal life and day to day activities is heavy, but I ask you to please be patient. Please help us by continuing to do all that you can to stop the spread of the virus as well as protect the health and safety of both you and your family.

I do wish to acknowledge the consistent level of support and dedication that has been displayed by our County Judge John Gothia and Staff, County Commissioners, Emergency Management Coordinators, City Managers and Mayors during this pandemic. There have been daily updates, emails, phone conferences and late-night texts to ensure that local elected officials are informed, and I am forever grateful. Most importantly I wish to honor and recognize everyone that is working hard to see us through this situation. We love our First Responders, Dispatchers, Health Care workers, Teachers, Administrators and Essential workers. Your service and sacrifice are greatly appreciated, and I personally want to say “Thank You”. To everyone who has given back to help others, Thank You as well. You are a true blessing and a reflection of the love of Christ that is very much needed right now all over the world.

Please continue to pray over our community and for our world. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us, and I know that the best is yet to come!

Sincerely,

Larry Spears Jr.

Mayor of Orange, Texas