Mayor Gilich has a message for you

The City of Biloxi has launched a new communications tool, “Be prepared,” a daily video message that will be shown on social media platforms and on BTV, the city’s TV channel.

“We want to give you accurate information, the things you need to know,” Mayor Andrew “FoFo” Gilich said in the first video message, which is just over two minutes and was posted this afternoon on the city’s primary Facebook pages (City of Biloxi, Biloxi Police Department, Biloxi Fire Department and Biloxi Visitors Center).

The video is also on the city’s YouTube channel on demand, and will air on BTV at 9 in the morning and 9 at night, and 3 in the afternoon and 3 in the early morning.

The inaugural video was recorded this afternoon at City Hall, and the city’s aim is to have at least one new informational video a day.

“Everyone is concerned about the coronavirus,” Gilich said, noting states of emergency have been declared on the local, state and federal levels. “A state of emergency means that we are taking steps to prevent the spread of the virus,” the mayor said. “Protective, preventative measures have been put in place for the public, city employees and their families.

“It is not business as usual, but be assured you can still take care of business.”

Gilich also addressed the subject of a curfew.

“Don’t listen to rumors,” Gilich said. “There is no curfew at this time. Non-essential businesses have been closed, but we are not closing down this city. Shelter in place. Travel only when necessary. Respect social distances. Failure to do so puts everybody at risk.”

The mayor acknowledged community concern.

“Some of you are scared,” he declared. “Don’t be scared. I’m not scared, and you should not be, either. Follow through on the advice we’re giving you. Be smart. We all know how to prepare for dangerous situations, like a hurricane. It’s the same thing. We are making decisions based on the information we have.”

The remainder of the mayor’s message:

“Dial 911, Police, Fire and AMR will all respond just as they always have. We are fully staffed and ready for the challenge.

“For other city business, deal with us either over the phone or by email or through the website. You’ll see our city workers on the job doing their jobs, but limiting personal contact. We’ve essentially closed all city facilities to routine walk-in traffic.

“I have already seen businesses taking steps to be ready for when this passes.

“We are Biloxi and we’re going to get through this, just like we have gotten through everything else. We’ll see you here again tomorrow. God bless all of you and God bless Biloxi.”
YouTube: See the video now
Facebook: See the video now

News & notes: Keesler, CDC, State Department of Health

Keesler: Keesler Air Force Base is making changes to how it does business in response to the coronavirus. To read information released today by Col. Heather Blackwell, commander of the 81st Training Wing, click here.

CDC: To see the website for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, click here.

MSDH: To see the latest from the Mississippi State Department of Health, click here.

Bmail: Have a family member of friend who should be getting these Bmails? Tell them to sign up at biloxi.ms.us/bmail-sign-up.