Man, this just gets more disheartening by the day. After Governor Ralph Northam issued a mandatory “stay-at-home” order for all Virginians yesterday, the City of Richmond followed with an order for restricted access to certain public spaces. Playgrounds and courts at public parks, as well as on Richmond Public Schools properties, are now closed. Access to the James River is limited as well. Certain activities – swimming, sunbathing or congregating in groups – are now forbidden, although residents can still hike, bike and otherwise exercise along the river.

Breaking the new restrictions or the gathering ban is a class one misdemeanor.