Letter to the editor: Businesses should respect rules, customers

Many businesses follow the state rules, although not easy, and Pennsylvania has shown a decrease in covid-19 positives and deaths. Responsible businesses have even gone beyond state requirements. Unfortunately, a few businesses choose to disregard guidelines. As the saying goes, a bad apple spoils the whole bunch.

Recently I stopped at a local store for lawn supplies. A “masks are optional” sign was posted. I expressed my opinion, noting that the governor had announced that masks are required in public indoor places, to the staff and apparent owner. Their response was, “This is a private business, and this is America. We don’t follow that rule, and the law is out of hand.”

I explained that I am wearing a mask to not infect others, and they should do the same to protect me and others. As Americans, we follow rules and not pick and choose the ones we agree with. My comments were met with laughter. Apparently this store doesn’t favor good citizenship or community responsibility.

It’s not difficult: Require masks, bring the numbers down, and businesses thrive. So I’m disappointed at their dismissal of my comments and will miss my visits to this store. I’ll just have to travel a bit farther to a big-box store or an establishment that shows respect for the rules and its customers.

Frank Flori

Hempfield