Social media users expressed great anger when pictures and videos of partygoers ignoring all social distancing regulations at a pool were uploaded online.
The owner of the bar in question spoke out, saying that he committed no crimes despite the criticism online.
Gary Prewett is the owner of Backwater Jack’s Bar and Grill in Missouri. 3 days ago, his bar hosted a pool party on the first day of memorial day weekend, where a massive pool party took place. The party was called “Zero Ducks Given”, an obvious wordplay.
However, Prewett argued that everyone who attended the party had the right to do so. While he said he understands the raw emotions that have been expressed online, Prewett also defended himself and the party by saying that appropriate measures were taken to minimize the spread.
He explains how he took the temperature for all clients before they were allowed inside, as well as providing plenty of hand sanitizers so that people can keep themselves clean. Saying that it is a great pleasure for him to serve good food, Prewett added that he will continue to do so.
The core message of his statement was that no laws were broken. He cited a local sheriff who had said it was the individual customers who decided to participate in the party and thus the responsibility also falls to the individuals to take the best care of their healths.
Lastly, Prewett explained that the name of the party did not mean to jeer or make fun of the pandemic or social distancing measures. He explained that this week’s party was just a part of a series of parties that is hosted by his bar.
The Facebook announcement follows a decision from the state that asked participants of the pool party to self-isolate for two weeks, regardless of having symptoms or not.
Other local authorities have been much more critical of the partygoers and the host. For instance, the mayor of St. Louis said that the images from the party were “deeply disturbing”. A video shows how several boats – well into dozens – gathered for the party in just 20 minutes.
Lockdown measures around the US and in many other countries have been eased, with epidemiologists worrying that irresponsible or reckless behavior can easily lead to a dreaded second wave of infections.
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Replaced!