The CDC recommends that you wear a mask when going out in public right now. If you are going to the grocery store, to get take out, etc. What I am talking about in writing this is not about masks being worn on the front lines in hospitals with essential workers dealing with sick people. I am talking about what you and I should be doing to protect ourselves, our loved ones and others.

My friend Jalonda, who owns one of my favorite places to shop- Gloria Jeans Heartfelt Treasures in Canton, is making cloth, washable masks for $5. She is not making much of a profit. Her main business is closed due to the coronavirus. This is a way to help in a couple of ways. I saw her post on Facebook about these masks and I was in. You can sew your own, maybe you know a friend that is making some or you can use a bandanna or something- but here's my thinking. I can't sew, these are super nice masks and I am supporting local business.

I read that wearing a mask can significantly reduce not only your risk of getting infected, but others around you. When I go to the grocery store these days, you are in the minority if you don't have a mask on.