Even as San Joaquin County Parks started to open up for some activities on May 18 – complete with social distancing protocols in place – the City of Escalon continues to look at easing its way back from shelter in place directives as well.
There is still a long way to go until it can be considered “business as usual” but officials are hoping to help businesses open sooner rather than later.
Until a sense of normalcy returns, however, the city is offering a little family fun.
A Drive-In Movie Night is scheduled for residents to “come enjoy an evening away from home” on Friday, May 22. An outdoor screen will be set up and the movie will be showing in the parking lot at Escalon Covenant Church, 1155 Escalon Ave.
There are some rules: All social distancing guidelines must be followed, even with the cars not parked too closely together; all those attending to watch the movie must remain inside their vehicles or in the bed of a truck. Also, there will be no restrooms available and no snack bar onsite, so those planning to attend are encouraged to bring their own snacks.
The parking lot will be open at 7:45 p.m. and the movie will begin at 8:30 p.m.
Featured will be ‘The Sandlot’ and space is limited so those that want a spot are advised to get there early.
Meanwhile, city officials said they are working with businesses to develop plans to help them reopen when possible, keeping in mind the social distancing protocols that will go along with the various phases of the state and county-allowed reopening schedule.
Escalon Sunrise Rotary Club member John Weeks also reminded residents that they do have more handmade face coverings available for those that still need them or would like a spare. He can be contacted at 209-470-2660.
“We can make deliveries around the community,” Weeks said.
Recently, the Rotary Club, in cooperation with Escalon United Methodist Church and community residents involved in making the masks, made a sizeable donation of the face coverings to the Escalon Police Department and City Hall, as well as dropping some off for residents of Paddack Manor.
The city’s electronic sign board, at the intersection of Highway 120-McHenry Avenue and Escalon-Bellota Road, continues to offer a rotating variety of messages as well, including one thanking the front line workers and another urging residents to support local restaurants by ordering food to pick up and then eat at home.
California Governor Gavin Newsom on Monday announced a further easing of restrictions and some rural counties in the state that weren’t as hard hit by the coronavirus are moving forward with opening of restaurants with limited seating as well as looking ahead to hair and nail salons being able to reopen soon.
Escalon officials said they are staying in touch with county health officials and carefully watching the state and county trends as they prepare for an eventual return to business. Currently, city offices remain physically closed but residents can get in touch with the various city departments by email or phone. City Council, Planning and Recreation Commission meetings also continue to be held virtually until further notice.
