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Gina's avatar

When Mortenson and Dahl become epidemiologists, I will consider their opinions. Until then, I believe they are dangerous.

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Roberto Castro's avatar

IMO this is a reckless and uninformed move, that is motivated by fear and a distrust for government. Ironically, the proponents of this measure are government and are not either medical professionals or versed in virology. They are free to refrain from getting any preventive medicine shot and if they are with like-minded people, free to spread virus amongst their clique. Have at it. In this world, however, there are places where common sense and decency comes into play and they should honor the wishes of those locations that require a mask (if that time comes again). I presume that most of us--who believe in science and have read the positions of peer-reviewed articles and journals on various health risks-- would prefer not having to take the shots ... but that is not the reality. I take shots to protect myself and others. I do not want to expose others to a virus that could be deadly to them or make them sick. See .... it's not about me, it's about the community. Again, I rather not wear a mask, but do so to protect others. It is a small sacrifice.

As for the proponents of this measure, it is troubling to see them taking positions with regard to ill-advised treatments and seeking to impose restrictions because they believe they either know better or think they liberty is being threatened. The latter argument is emotional and not scientifically backed up. I am sure they will cite a study or two that comes from a non-peered review study to back up their claims and effort. Alternatively, they will argue that the "deep state" is manipulating us and argue that we are effectively "sheep" or something to that effect. Again, there is an emotional appeal to their argument, but it is not based on scientific fact and feeds on fear to advance their position. That is tragic. That is criminal. That is cowardly.

The public deserves a robust debate based on facts. The use of the "fear" tactic to advance their agenda is cowardly and a disservice to the public they elected to serve. While the public includes their clique, they represent many others. If that does not dawn on them, IMO, they need to retire.

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Tom Paulu's avatar

In Cowlitz County, commissioners sometimes claim to have more power than they really do. Most of the other county officials, even the auditor, are directly elected by the people. So are the judges. Efforts to give the commissioners more clout though a home rule charter have failed. So I suggest that the commissioners let the judges and (also elected) prosecutor's office decide what is constitutional and let medical experts decide how to prevent disease. Bringing this motion is not going to encourage more medical professionals to work and/or live in Cowlitz County.

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Mary Lyons's avatar

Deliberate ignorance is encouraged by more ignorance, and the egos of these two Commissioners grow as the ignorant roar of their adrenaline-junky supporters rages. They are giving Cowlitz County a reputation of ignorant, irresponsible culture that will continue to send businesses and families to better educated counties that are more intelligently led.

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Rosemary Siipola's avatar

These two ideologue commissioners were elected primarily because too many people choose not to vote. The power they have is intoxicating ... most power these two have ever had. We’re paying their hefty salaries while they continue to spread their misinformation. Covid killed people who sat on the front row of commissioner meetings, fan boys who hung on their hero’s every hate-filed and ignorant tirade against everything they didn’t like. The cruelty is the point. Their miserableness is rubbing off on candidates in the local elections. These candidates are rude, crude and angry. They have no solutions, only hateful rhetoric. We deserve better and turnout has to improve to get rid of these rage-filled wanna be politicians. Vote. Vote. Vote. Vote.

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Ruth Kendall's avatar

Thank you.

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Roberto Castro's avatar

I want to share a podcast that I heard earlier this am regarding how to address the concerns or people that have gone down the ultra right "rabbit hole" and what may explain that rise. The podcast is by Heidi Klein on How to Stay Sane in an Increasingly Warped Online World. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ten-percent-happier-with-dan-harris/id1087147821

While Ten Percent is primarily about mediation, Zen and Buddhists principles, this one has some valuable insight on the transformation of friends and family. i.e., what drew them and how do we engage with them since they view any one that questions their views as a caricature. It is available for free. Full disclosure: I have no interest in the podcast or get any brownie points for sharing this :)

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Roberto Castro's avatar

Understanding the mindset of the Commissioners is a bit tricky. This is a timely TED talk that may help https://www.ted.com/talks/julia_galef_why_you_think_you_re_right_even_if_you_re_wrong/transcript?user_email_address=41f58eea4f2f16a79938bc32c4fb6311&lctg=62d1ab651c794c328cdfae88

The harder part is getting them to see things differently or reengaging them. This also applies to us. Sidenote, science is clear on this and I give that more weight...and embracing community so, I believe the evidence overwhelmingly is against those promoting this resolution.

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Sue Hinshaw's avatar

Thank you, Andre.

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