Anchorage businesses report an uptick in masks following mandate, though compliance isn't universal

On Monday, Anchorage joined a growing number of U.S. cities by requiring masks for indoor public spaces to address the spread of COVID-19.

Whether it was a bandana, surgical mask or homemade cloth masks, Anchorage business owners interviewed Monday said customers ran their errands with face coverings in greater numbers than seen the past few months. Compliance was not universal, something Anchorage Mayor Ethan Berkowitz predicted when announcing the order on Friday.

Visits to several businesses in Spenard, Midtown and South Anchorage on Monday found most customers were wearing masks, although usage varied from store to store.

“Out of respect, we need to wear masks,” said Carol Statton, a nurse who was shopping at Over the Rainbow Toys on Monday. “It’s the least we can do. It’s not 100%, but it’s pretty good.”

Read more: https://www.adn.com/alaska-news/anchorage/2020/06/29/anchorage-businesses-report-an-uptick-in-masks-following-mandate-though-compliance-isnt-universal/
(Anchorage Daily News)