It was really great to see our TISD athletes on the field again. It was a thrill to see the excitement of “The Game.” Many families attended the game. I applaud the several families who wore, the sign of our times, masks. The athletes wore masks on the sidelines. Even the cheerleaders yelled through their masks. However, the stands were full of families who, evidently, did not understand the importance of covering their faces, nor socially distancing. They did respect the marked off rows of bleachers, but crowded together on the other rows. I was disappointed to see people I recognized as doctors, elected officials, the prominent in our community, without masks. They included many people who support TISD and the students in every way.

Today, Dr. Redfield, head of the CDC, held up a blue face mask and stated “This little mask provides you the best protection against the virus, probably even more than a vaccine.”

Evidently, our children value this protection enough to let go of their personal preferences. Parents, can’t you do the same? Follow the children’s lead. Wear a mask. Today, I got a negative test result after being in contact with a child who was found later to be positive. We both wore masks. The virus is out there. Protect yourself and others so we can continue to see the “Thrill of The Game.”

Pat Parsons

Tyler