COVID-19 Tips for Bozeman: Might, Masks and Meat

An incredible thing happened in our community this past weekend that was a shining, sharing moment in still uncertain times.

Terry Cunningham is back with more thoughts on the current COVID-19 rules, re-opening and fantastic acts of kindness. And, yeah - wear a mask to Costco.

Daily Update / Tip: Here we go. We’re pushing off and Gallatin County is rowing – collectively - into uncharted waters. It’s not an over-statement to say that because of the “novel” nature of the Coid-19 virus, we’re not quite sure what this journey will be like, where it might lead, and where we’re going to land. Certain restrictions have been loosened and, as a result, many of us will be coming into contact a wider circle of people than we have over the past 2 months, which increases risk not just to ourselves, but to the community as a whole. The Gallatin City-County Health Department has outlined a strategy that includes – to follow the metaphor – keeping land in sight and hugging the coastline for a while. This seems like a wise, sensible course. The key is to keep us all rowing in the same direction.

FAQ: Q: Why should I wear a mask while shopping at Costco, Wal-Mart or Town & County Foods? I’m not sick. A: Grocery store and mass merchandise store employees are considered frontline essential service workers. They work in high-traffic locations and come into contact with a wide cross-section of the public, with no idea who might be carrying Covid-19 into the store environment. Even if you aren’t concerned about your own level of exposure to the highly contagious virus (???!!!) show some respect to those who are at significant risk of exposure because of where they work. The management of these stores care enough about their employees to post signs requiring or requesting that customers wear face coverings while shopping. Not complying with the expressly-stated policies of our local stores isn’t just un-cool, it’s disrespectful.

Pulling Together: On Saturday, Gallatin valley farmers and ranchers – with the help of volunteer groups – distributed over 70,000 pounds of potatoes, beef and canned food via a drive-through service at the Gallatin Valley Mall parking lot. The “Friends Helping Friends” food giveaway helped those in need of these food items, and kept the farmers and ranchers from having to waste the product of their labors due to restaurant and school closures.

What Can I Do? Staying healthy and fit is a great way to ensure that your body can fight off the Covid-19 virus. What’s one surprising way to improve your health? Drink more water. According to experts, “Water is the best and the most natural hydrating liquid. It promotes cardiovascular health, keeps muscles and joints working, and helps cleanse toxins from your body. Staying hydrated also helps balance your blood sugar, helps relieve headaches, and promotes healthy skin. If you don’t drink water every day, your body could experience dehydration which could cause tiredness, slow brain function, irritability, dryness, and high temperature. Hydrating improves your overall health and will help you feel balanced and energized throughout your busy day."