As publishers of this widely read local paper, it was disheartening to see that you disregarded the most basic tenet of safety during this time of Covid 19: masks and social distancing.
By taking three group pictures of people standing next to one another – some with masks, some not, and no distancing whatsoever, you allowed them and those they come in contact with to dramatically increase exposure to the virus. It’s possible that each of the individuals gave authorization to your paper and to each other to be photographed this way; however, I believe it was your responsibility not to take these pictures in the first place.
The virus has been affecting us for almost one year, and I think it’s doubtful that these photos were taken before that time. You should know better and so should the folks in the pictures.
Susan Fitzgerald
Morro Bay
