Coronavirus

TO THE EDITOR:

I write today to thank our local government officials and first responders for their efforts to keep us safe. The COVID-19 threat is very real. While other officials check poll numbers to determine their actions, our local officials have listened to experts. Remember that not all opinions have the same value. If someone tells you this is not real, consider the source. What motive do they have to minimize? The threat of this virus is very real. It will not discriminate based on politics, religion, or money. You will know people who get sick. You will probably know someone who dies from COVID-19 as well.

The protocols that Bowie County, Cass County, and Texarkana, Texas have put in place are vital to minimizing the impact of this in our community. Not only do they help lower the spread of this virus, the decisions opened up access to resources from the state and federal government to help us. You can still get toilet paper and other groceries. You can still help your elderly or disabled family members. I have a large family. I understand that it is not fun to stay at home, but it is vital. The doctors, nurses, and other health care workers in this community need you to stay home and stay healthy. The grocery workers and gas station clerks need you to stay healthy and stay distant.

Thank you -Judge Howell, Judge Wilbanks, and Mayor Bruggeman. Your insightful decisions have given us a chance to save lives. To the rest of us, please use and follow the guidelines and help keep all of us as safe as possible. As Doctor Fauci advised, if we think we are doing too much… we might be doing enough.

Stay safe, stay healthy, stay home,

John Delk Texarkana, Texas