Wearing a mask protects not only the wearer, but those around the wearer by reducing transmission of the novel coronavirus. That's why the CDC recommends that everyone who can wear a mask should wear one when they must go out in public.

Some government leaders have been reluctant to embrace this guidance and require their constituents to wear masks when in public. I am very concerned that if members of the public choose to go around without a mask, the increase in transmission will lead to avoidable sickness and death.

Therefore, I am asking the owners of all businesses which admit the public to implement a "No Mask, No Entry or Service" policy and I am asking for this policy to be clearly posted at the entrance. It is the right thing to do for the good of your employees and for the health of our community.

If a store posts this policy and it is violated, the person violating it is not only threatening public safety, he or she is also a tresspasser. The way to enforce this policy safely is for the store manager to report the trespass to the local authorities. If the manager also announces over the PA that Public Safety officers will soon be escorting out those who are not wearing masks, the violators will likely leave of their own accord.

I want to support businesses which protect the health of their workers and customers. I also want to stay healthy, myself. For these reasons, I will avoid businesses which do not adopt this policy.