We can get Taos back to green by working together

As we enter the most important time of year for our community’s economy – winter sports season – it is critical that we all do our part and support local Taos businesses not only to stay open, but remain open for a longer time period to allow for and accommodate the tourism we typically see over the next few months.

While our county is currently in the designated level “Red” for COVID-related restrictions, if we all take action now, we can turn the tide on coronavirus implications in Taos and move from red to yellow to green – all within this crucial season.

The things we can all do are really simple, and if we follow them rigorously now, the sooner restrictions will be lifted, and we can get closer to normal while we await a vaccine. Most importantly, we ask all of you to stay home and limit gatherings. If you go out, wear a mask, maintain physical distance of at least six feet, and use hand sanitizer or wash your hands frequently. In addition, don’t go out in public at all if you are not feeling well.

Finally, take advantage of the free testing sites at the Taos Public Health Office, Holy Cross Medical Center or El Centro Family Health Taos Clinic if you have symptoms or were exposed to someone who has tested positive. By knowing who has tested positive and contact tracing, we can significantly limit the spread of the virus.

We all love the Taos community and ask that everyone please support our local businesses in a safe and smart way to help us all get back to normal as soon as possible.

Luis Reyes, Jr. is CEO of Kit Carson Electric Cooperative.