To the editor:

News of rising numbers of COVID-19 cases here in the Copper Country and elsewhere in the United States makes our family very concerned. Over the past several months we have learned we must follow protocols of wearing face masks when out in public, washing our hands frequently, and keeping proper social distance when others are present. Why? Simply because the evidence of people dying from this virus makes us take the precautions prescribed. As someone wrote, “I don’t know who needs to hear this but your choice to give up the last nine months of your regular life being careful and socially distancing could very well be the reason someone else is alive today and it will always have been worth it.”

Incredibly, citizens in our community think otherwise. The large gathering held at the Mineshaft on Nov. 20 was reckless. It created a danger to our community through all the contacts attendees might have in the next two weeks.

It particularly reveals a callous indifference to our health care professionals. Our doctors, nurses, nurse aides, custodians and other necessary workers understand the facts of COVID-19. They have the best interests of patients return to good health in mind. It’s utterly depleting to their morale when such gatherings take place. Irregardless of morale, the necessary equipment available for growing numbers of cases is a worrisome issue.

After the 2018 flood the people of the Copper Country banded together to overcome great obstacles to return to normal. In this pandemic we must think of our fellow citizens’ well being and it must guide us all on a path to healthy days in the near future. Copper Country Strong will prevail!