COVINGTON, Ky. - “You can’t be doing that” has become a statewide catchphrase, thanks to Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear’s daily briefings on the coronavirus pandemic, and, as much as we hate to do it, good sense requires we start off this COVID-19 Edition of our weekly narrative events calendar with that quick admonition.

 

The weather is supposed to be nice for a couple of days: Don’t succumb to the temptation of going out and hanging around people. Quite simply, that’s dangerous for both you and others, because it increases the risk of spreading a highly contagious virus that will soon overwhelm our health care system.

 

As the Governor said, “I know it feels like this is all out of our control, but it is actually more in your control than most crises that we face, because your actions, your choices can reduce the spread of the virus.”

 

That doesn’t mean you can’t have fun:

 

You can’t enjoy the awesome atmosphere of Covington’s fabulous restaurants these days, but you can enjoy their food.

 

Many are either delivering or offering carryout (or is it “takeout”?), and thanks to Gov. Beshear’s executive order, you can get wine, beer and good Kentucky bourbon delivered as well.

 

So spoil yourself and help protect a few jobs as well. Our restaurant and bar workers are hurting.

 

The list of participating restaurants tends to ebb and flow, but the latest list from the Covington Business Council can be seen HERE. Or, you can just call your favorite eatery and ask.

 

Covington Farmers Market has moved to a pre-order/pickup-only model, meaning for a fee you can buy a “bundle” that includes eggs, produce, bread, shelf-stable products (and meat, in some instances). Wine is also available.

 

Details and sign-up info are HERE. Pay with a credit card or SNAP/EBT, and then pick up curbside in front of Renaissance Covington’s office at 2 W. Pike St.

 

And tune in to @covingtonfarmersmarket from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. for a livestreamed concert by MayaLou and a Uke.

 

Master Shifu in “Kung Fu Panda” isn’t the only one in search of inner peace. In this time of anxiety and suffering, we could all use some serenity.

 

Warrior Spirit Wellness in Latonia - which helps you “get in touch with your innate internal healing warrior” with unique alternative health offerings - is offering online group classes at a reduced rate. On tap this weekend is “Peaceful Current,” “Serene Stretching” and “Ignite.”

 

Info, HERE.

 

Meanwhile, Sage Yoga Co. has been offering a daily exhibition - complete with diagrams - on yoga poses on its Facebook page, HERE.

 

It’s also offering virtual yoga classes, with sign-ups HERE.

 

Feeling crafty? Like to paint? Are you creative?

Classes are canceled, so Baker-Hunt Art & Cultural Center continues to post live videos on Instagram and Facebook, @BakerHuntArt, with all sorts of arts and crafts ideas. Some are for kids, others not.

Gov. Beshear gives a press conference at 5 p.m. every day, and it’s the place to turn for the latest news, policy changes, orders, camaraderie, and reassurance - all delivered with a decidedly non-partisan bent.

 

In short, it’s become an “event” in and of itself, for Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike - not to mention those who are atheist and/or agnostic about their politics. A Facebook page has popped up with memes about the brand-new Governor and his messages, and they’re pretty fun. There are also Bingo cards and drinking games tied to when he says certain phrases.

 

You can catch the governor livestreamed HERE or on his YouTube channel HERE or on KET (television).

 

On Facebook alone, today’s update received well over 11,000 “reactions” and nearly 2,000 “shares.”

 

And finally, if you’re in mental anguish, we do recommend you get outside, but only if you do it safely (following the 6-foot social distancing rule).

 

Sun bathe in your yard. Kayak on the river. Fish. Go for a run. Ride your bike. Hike a trail in Devou, atop Riverfront Commons, or on the Licking River Greenway & Trail. Toss a Frisbee in your yard.

 

Again, however, do these things by yourself or in a well-spaced group.

 

Above all, be safe, be well.

 

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