SHUTDOWN: Heading that direction

We hear many stories of the sacrifices people are making to stop coronavirus spread, but some display incredible self-centeredness and unthinking. Millions are missing school, losing paychecks, facing bankrupt businesses, watching savings disappear, and working hard to provide health care to those with COVID-19. We especially applaud our health care heroes.

But then there are those who absolutely must have their beer or dinner out. The bars in Coeur d’Alene are still busy in spite of CDC guidance to stay home. Local news reports indicate many of these are coming from Washington, potentially spreading the virus and driving home drunk, a double jeopardy for all of us.

We applaud the Lake City Senior Center decision to offer drive-thru meals but are appalled they are continuing to allow the highest risk people in town to enjoy in-person socializing and weekly bingo. These people may not be afraid of getting sick themselves, but how incredibly inconsiderate of others!

How many of these people are in frequent contact with one of those hero health care workers? Do they not think about who else they may infect at home or as they shop? Are they prepared to forgo medical treatment and a precious ventilator when they get sick to enable someone who has done the responsible thing for society to get medical care? Do they really want to be the reason for a statewide and national quarantine to keep everyone, including themselves, at home?

LOUISE DRESSEN

Coeur d’Alene