Letter: Masks or no masks?

Posted on by Letters
Graphic by Lori Deaton

[News release:] The Buncombe County Board of Commissioners has extended the countywide face covering requirement for all indoor public spaces through Nov. 30, 2021. The indoor mask requirement also extends to Asheville, Biltmore Forest, Black Mountain, Montreat, Weaverville, and Woodfin.

What good is a mandate if no one enforces it? Or do they?

Last week, we went to a long-established bar in Asheville. Decided to try it on a whim while waiting for rush hour traffic to thin out. I did not see any of the staff wearing masks. In fact, we got a lot of stares from the regulars when we walked in wearing ours.

Then, we had dinner at a new restaurant on Tuesday. (The food ranged from OK to “are you kidding me?”) But my complaint is that at least half the wait staff was not wearing masks. I was not facing the bar or kitchen so I cannot comment on the whole team.

I hate to diss anyone, but seems like we should do everything in our power to stay safe so restaurants, bars, etc., can stay open. I have no idea how to deal with this type of situation except to tell all my friends I won’t be going back.

Just food for thought.

— Stephen Harris
Asheville

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2 thoughts on “Letter: Masks or no masks?”

  1. Lou

    I quit eating out when I realized that there were way more anti-maskers than I could have ever imagined right here in Black Mountain. They make a big show with their flashing sign facing the exit off of highway 40, advising masks and social distancing , but don’t be fooled. Go into the Ingles, Dollar General, the POLICE and FIRE DEPARTMENT, gas stations and various other establishments and you will see nary a mask. I am done with humanity. Too many ignorant selfish people and COVID has shown every one of them for who they are.

    • Mike

      I don’t believe (dollar store and homebrew) masks work at all. N-95’s may provide some benefit but are expensive, uncomfortable, and should not be worn for a long time interval. For those reasons i’ve not eaten in a restaurant in almost 2 years! I can’t understand why anyone who thinks mask DO work would engage in indoor eating or drinking with multiple other eaters and drinkers where mask wearing is infeasible.?

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