Having been a resident of our beautiful lake country for over 40 years I know the importance of the influx of our summer visitors. I am a seasonal employee in Nisswa. Once we were able to open this spring and before the mask mandate I always wore my mask. We had visitors from Texas, Florida and Arizona when their states were surging in cases. None wore masks. This was worrisome for me and I was relieved when the mask mandate began. Very clear signage is posted explaining the guidelines for opening, including requiring people to wear a mask. Many stores are complying with this requirement however there are some that are not which is unfortunate. The numbers of positive cases in Crow Wing and Cass counties have had double digit increases. It's reasonable to attribute that to our seasonal visitors. Most people comply with the mask mandate, however there are those that create a challenging situation when they either refuse or wear it improperly under their nose. When I remind customers of this, some have become belligerent, angry and storm out of the store. Some people have cited health issues for their refusal to wear a mask. They should take responsibility and wear a plastic face shield. Our visitors want our shops open for their shopping pleasure but it's troubling that by reminding them, a sale might be lost. I've always enjoyed chatting with customers who share their stories about visiting a resort or family cabin, their birthdays, anniversaries, weddings and friend getaways. Now I feel like I am in a war zone. This is not a political issue, it is a science and health issue. I am imploring our visitors and residents alike to be responsible, respectful and to be part of the solution and not the problem.
Gail Burgoyne
Pequot Lakes
