By Tom Dawson
The holiday season is upon us. It is time for good cheer to our family, friends and neighbors. The past two years has caused hardships for many, including health, isolation and loss of jobs.
It is good to see where our governor has come down on the COVID issues.
Not so good as to where our local city mandates have gone, and the way some local businesses interpret the mandates. It’s apparent that many don’t understand or haven’t read the exceptions to the rules.
As a non-mask wearer, I fall within exceptions in the mandate for our community. However, I find that many local businesses take it upon themselves to be mask police and demand a mask be worn or no entry and no exceptions. There are many thing wrong with this approach. Apparently, COVID is everywhere, except when seated and eating, then it leaves you alone. I could explain dozens of other foolish scenarios and why this is unlawful according to state and federal statutes, but that is not my intent here.
My reason for writing is to say I have always tried to shop local first, it’s good for the community. However the mindset of many local businesses prevents that. Self-appointed mask police businesses have lost my business and my respect. Apparently they don’t understand there are many like me. And when it’s over and things are back to normal, I still won’t return to those businesses. Internet shopping works fine for me.
• Tom Dawson is a lifelong Juneau resident. He grew up in Douglas and is now a retired correctional officer, firefighter/EMT lll. Columns, My Turns and Letters to the Editor represent the view of the author, not the view of the Juneau Empire. Have something to say? Here’s how to submit a My Turn or letter.
