Closures

[Emkay56]

I don’t know where my post went, so I’m resubmitting. My husband and I have a rental for the month of April. Can someone tell me if neighborhood pools, restaurants, and golf courses are still open? We are not cancelling our trip yet, however, if everything is closed, it doesn’t make much sense to come.

[JSR22]

Currently, golf courses, pools, rec ceters and restaurants are open.

[rustyp]

I don’t know where my post went, so I’m resubmitting. My husband and I have a rental for the month of April. Can someone tell me if neighborhood pools, restaurants, and golf courses are still open? We are not cancelling our trip yet, however, if everything is closed, it doesn’t make much sense to come.

As of this morning Florida has 70 cases of Covid19 with three resultant deaths. Like most other areas there has not been an abundance of tests available / administered. Given Florida has one of the largest elderly and at risk population of anywhere in the US what do think the hospitals here will look like if this does get to levels that some are predicting (I so hope not). If you don't have to come why would you ? If you do better check your out of area insurance coverage before you do. What is your plan if you need to be hospitalized or we are quarantined like New Rochelle and the stay is past your rental period ? Time to sit down pencil and paper and do the plus and minus.

[vintageogauge]

No cases reported in the 3 counties of The Villages which includes Ocala. All the bars and restaurants are open as well as the country club restaurants. Pools, rec. centers, are open but most indoor activities have been cancelled. They sure haven't cancelled the good weather as it is sunny and 10 degrees above the average for this time of the year. We have a brand new emergency room with beds very close to Brownwood on Route 44, The Villages Hospital, Leesburg and Ocala Hospitals too. I would ask again when it's closer to April and if things are the same as now I don't see a problem. If cases start popping up while you're here you can always go home if you don't feel comfortable spending the month.

[rustyp]

President just announced no travel from UK and Ireland also. At that press release there was some hint that domestic travel maybe limited. As I posted more than a week ago major universities in NY were suspending classes for the rest of the semester. That ended up being true. Most of those universities are having employees capable of working at home do such but have not suspended all employees from coming to work. From my same source (I cannot disclose) a university sent memo yesterday to any employee living outside the county not to come to work independent of being able to work from home or not. There is the beginning of domestic travel restrictions.

[kathyspear]

There is the beginning of domestic travel restrictions.

How would that work exactly?

kathy

[rustyp]

How would that work exactly?

kathy

I have no idea. Seen a clip today on Italy. Police patrolling the streets. People not following the rules get a $250 citation if caught.

[OCsun]

People in The Villages are either staying in their houses and only leaving to go out for supplies or they are trying to live their lives while being smart. My husband and I are watching Villagers play golf and practice their putting from our lanai. We also took a golf cart ride to Lake Sumter around lunch time and saw other Villagers enjoying their afternoon in the beautiful weather having lunch and walking around the square. We observed many people taking walks, riding bikes and enjoying the pools. Everyday life can go on in the Villages with some common sense and respect for the people around you.

[Gpsma]

Best thing about this virus....snowbirds will go home early...less people, less chance of infection

[charmed59]

Tonight we took a drive around our closest town square. There were families with kids dancing to the piped in music on the band stand, people walking with ice cream cones along the boardwalk, and live entertainment at Cody’s on the water. The restaurants looked like they had customers, but nothing was shoulder to shoulder. I was happy to see people enjoying themselves while keeping safe distances from others.

[maggie1]

Went to Caine Garden yesterday to have my "Golf Buddy" GPS updated for some of the courses that weren't on it to begin with. I had a plastic container of Lysol wipes in the tray of my golf cart, with three wipes in it. When I was finished in the proshop I went back to my cart, opened the container to wipe off my hands and GPs - guess what? The container was empty - someone had taken my wipes without even leaving a thank you note.

[Mmarr]

Yes..open.. best place to be outside

[Two Bills]

In view of the crisis, I have just asked my bank to close my outstanding overdraft debt.

[pmiceli]

Everything is closing down here, the only things opened are the pools and some restaurants. It’s had to get food and staples, so bring plenty of foods and drinks (bottled Water, etc.) with you. We had a guest coming down in May and they moved their booking to next April. Hope this helps.

[rockandroller]

During our Saturday bicycle ride, I noticed many more cyclists and runners than BC (before Corona). Also, visited the Winn-Dixie close to Spanish Springs and DID NOT notice extreme "panic buying" other than the cereal aisle which had a few bare spots.

[rmd2]

There are coronavirus cases in Volusia County which is right next to Lake County.

[Susan1234]

They are all open so far..squares entertainment,movies,and other large venues are closed

[Spalumbos62]

I don’t know where my post went, so I’m resubmitting. My husband and I have a rental for the month of April. Can someone tell me if neighborhood pools, restaurants, and golf courses are still open? We are not cancelling our trip yet, however, if everything is closed, it doesn’t make much sense to come.


We just bought our place last year...we have been renting it out, now FINALLY we get to use it the month of April....yea- that ain't happening. See ya all soon.
(And, Mike our great neighbor-sorry we're gonna miss the party)😕

[Melaniesplace]

I don’t know where my post went, so I’m resubmitting. My husband and I have a rental for the month of April. Can someone tell me if neighborhood pools, restaurants, and golf courses are still open? We are not cancelling our trip yet, however, if everything is closed, it doesn’t make much sense to come.

So far, all are open. And the weather is beautiful.......enjoy

[greenflash245]

cancel.

[theruizs]

What would concern me about travel more than actually getting covid-19 is the potential for getting stuck/quarantined somewhere and not being able to get back home for days or weeks longer than planned.

[theruizs]

Also, there ARE a lot cancelations and closures. My wife’s quilting group has canceled all meetings in March and may extend it, and many other clubs have done the same. Theaters are all closed. Grocery stores are closing earlier. All entertainment in the squares are canceled. I think there will be more as time goes by.

[TJLAMPHERE]

We just bought our place last year...we have been renting it out, now FINALLY we get to use it the month of April....yea- that ain't happening. See ya all soon.
(And, Mike our great neighbor-sorry we're gonna miss the party)😕
Is your rental available for next March??

[eagle77]

One just south of Lake Sumter and one just south of 466A.

[Cher_561]

It seems like it depends on what you want to do. Sit at a pool, walk in a town? that probably works if there are no confinements. The events have been cancelled, markets, shows, dancing in the square, maybe food stores and restaurants.. If it was my choice I would reschedule until we are back to normal. And frankly if you are flying here, do you really want to expose others to all the people you’ll be in contact with??? That wouldn’t make me anxious to socialize, putting others at risk.

[Spalumbos62]

Is your rental available for next March??

Jan/feb/mar of 2021 is already booked.
But April-dec of 2020 is open and April-dec of 2021 is open.
A discount could be applied for April of 2020.😁

[Villageswimmer]

OP, if the things you mention in your post are important to you, cancel. If you want to escape the weather where you are, come. It’s very beautiful here but not normal.

[Count'n the days]

Excellent description of facts that need to be considered. I hope it is taken seriously.

[jonathanb]

So far it’s the nightly entertainment, movie theaters that are suspended. Rec centers and pools have not been affected yet but that could change at any time. If it were me I would stay home till this is over.

[Plummr1]

I went to the store this morning and they had everything but toilet paper.. I don’t know where you’re shopping .. nobody seemed to care in the Winn Dixie I was in.. pallets of water and everything! Plenty of food .. no shortage of anything

[jacRI]

For now I would be more concerned with the commute here with stops at gas stations, rest stops and hotels where who knows have previously been there.

[J1ceasar]

BALONEY - supermarkets are stocked here.

[pamelacruz]

Tonight we took a drive around our closest town square. There were families with kids dancing to the piped in music on the band stand, people walking with ice cream cones along the boardwalk, and live entertainment at Cody’s on the water. The restaurants looked like they had customers, but nothing was shoulder to shoulder. I was happy to see people enjoying themselves while keeping safe distances from others.
red sauce was packed like sardines

[coffeebean]

I went to the store this morning and they had everything but toilet paper.. I don’t know where you’re shopping .. nobody seemed to care in the Winn Dixie I was in.. pallets of water and everything! Plenty of food .. no shortage of anything

Yesterday, I left Colony Publix an hour after it opened. The lines were a mob scene. I then went to Winn Dixie in LSL and was so surprised to see the place was a ghost town compared to the zoo I left at Colony Publix. Just as you said, all the shelves were stocked as usual.

[sls815]

Very quiet here but sunny warm beautiful days! Restaurants & golf courses are open. Some rec center classes (small ones) grocery stores, many empty shelves & gas stations are open. Closed are too many to mention &
no one knows when they will open. Big ones closed are Squares, all theaters, Katie Belles, zThe Savannnah, all movies. However to date, no known virus in The Villages but you can be sure there will be. The first drive up testing soon to open.

[sls815]

Pools are open.

[swooner]

Considering all of the closings referenced here, thought it was ironic to go by St. Timothy Church at 9:30 this morning (Sunday) and see that the parking lot was full.

[Two Bills]

Yesterday, I left Colony Publix an hour after it opened. The lines were a mob scene. I then went to Winn Dixie in LSL and was so surprised to see the place was a ghost town compared to the zoo I left at Colony Publix. Just as you said, all the shelves were stocked as usual.

Such a better class of shopper at Winn Dixie!!:icon_wink:

[Two Bills]

Considering all of the closings referenced here, thought it was ironic to go by St. Timothy Church at 9:30 this morning (Sunday) and see that the parking lot was full.

Insurance, and spread betting!

[jebartle]

Considering all of the closings referenced here, thought it was ironic to go by St. Timothy Church at 9:30 this morning (Sunday) and see that the parking lot was full.

That is crazy!!!!

[Bucco]

Considering all of the closings referenced here, thought it was ironic to go by St. Timothy Church at 9:30 this morning (Sunday) and see that the parking lot was full.

Well, it is the best choice for getting essentials now isn't it ?

[Topspinmo]

Yesterday, I left Colony Publix an hour after it opened. The lines were a mob scene. I then went to Winn Dixie in LSL and was so surprised to see the place was a ghost town compared to the zoo I left at Colony Publix. Just as you said, all the shelves were stocked as usual.

That’s because there packed in line sardines around 466a. I was sown there month ago and 30 plus inline just to get through intersection.

[thomp679]

Very quiet here but sunny warm beautiful days! Restaurants & golf courses are open. Some rec center classes (small ones) grocery stores, many empty shelves & gas stations are open. Closed are too many to mention &
no one knows when they will open. Big ones closed are Squares, all theaters, Katie Belles, zThe Savannnah, all movies. However to date, no known virus in The Villages but you can be sure there will be. The first drive up testing soon to open.

What are you talking about? Most things are not closed unless you are referencing the Squares. Most places that are open on Sun are open. I was just in Leesburg, Tavares, and Mt Dora and people are out and about. Yesterday we went golfing, today we saw an outdoor band in Yahala, and tomorrow, we will be kayaking.

The closures within the Villages are appropiate, but there is life outside the bubble that can be done. Just be sensible.

[Bucco]

What are you talking about? Most things are not closed unless you are referencing the Squares. Most places that are open on Sun are open. I was just in Leesburg, Tavares, and Mt Dora and people are out and about. Yesterday we went golfing, today we saw an outdoor band in Yahala, and tomorrow, we will be kayaking.

The closures within the Villages are appropiate, but there is life outside the bubble that can be done. Just be sensible.

Hope I am wrong, but worry that at tomorrow's press conference, your positive attitude might be shattered.

Hope I am wrong.

[rustyp]

Hope I am wrong, but worry that at tomorrow's press conference, your positive attitude might be shattered.

Hope I am wrong.

I give it till Wed and the Villages will be on the map - why wouldn't it be ? We certainly weren't ahead of the curve.

[Drdoug49]

TV has only closed down some activities because of government intervention. We have an extremely vulnerable population that has for the majority of TV objected to every possible way to halt spread of COV-19

[KeithDB]

The number of cases in Florida effectively doubled today, as in just today (Sunday), increasing from about 75 to about 150. The number of pending tests (over 500) combined with the percentage of pending tests that end up positive (about 20%) means it could come close to doubling again tomorrow.

The Villages has officially dodged the virus so far. That is about to end. Once cases are confirmed here everything will stop.

[LiverpoolWalrus]

The first drive up testing soon to open.

Are you being serious? That would be a great idea.

Speaking of which, what is the current state of testing? As of last week, I kept hearing there was a shortage of testing kits and there were lots of roadblocks to getting tested. Has the situation improved? Can anyone get tested at any doctor’s office or lab now? Can you walk into a hospital without symptoms and get tested? Thanks for any info.

[Debboguch50]

Just announced all villages indoor activities are cancelled thru 3-31-2020

[billethkid]

Testing has been identified as contacting your doctor IF YOU HAVE THE SYMPTOMS.
The doctor will direct you regarding if, when and where to get tested.

My paraphrasing of what I have read to date.

[rustyp]

I give it till Wed and the Villages will be on the map - why wouldn't it be ? We certainly weren't ahead of the curve.

Monday - Lake County first case positive. My prediction of Wed for TV may get shattered tomorrow but I'm sticking with the original prediction of Wed.

[Bigdaddymuy]

It’s been a couple of days since last updated..........so what is it like in the Villages today? Restaurant closings? Pool closings (and for that matter, family pools overrun with spring break visiting families.....or deserted because nobody traveling?) My family and I were going to try to make the trip, but now, the quarantine penalties at work and school when we return seem overwhelming a cost.

Please Advise, I’m so heartbroken I can’t leave Cold Wisconsin for a “WARM WEEK”

[elevatorman]

This from the CDD:
COVID-19 District Action Plan - UPDATED


March 16, 2020 12:00 p.m.

The safety of residents, guests, staff and visitors in The Villages community continues to be of utmost importance to the District. As the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health and Governor DeSantis on the prevention of COVID-19 continues to update, the District is implementing the following facility and schedule changes that will take effect on Tuesday, March 17, 2020:

Recreation Activities – the following changes will be in effect until March 31, 2020
The operating hours of the Recreation Centers will be 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All scheduled indoor activities in the recreation centers are cancelled.
All Sports Pool activities other than Combo Swim are cancelled.
All scheduled outdoor activities of 50 or more people are cancelled.
The Enrichment Academy (TEA) courses scheduled between March 14th and March 31st are postponed and will be rescheduled. Participants will be notified by email of alternate course dates.
The Irish American Parade scheduled for Tuesday, March 17th is cancelled.
Outdoor Excursions and Lake Sumter Line Boat Tours are cancelled.
Parks, Dog Parks, Fenney Putt & Play, Outdoor Exercise Equipment, Sports Courts & Swimming Pools remain open.
All Fitness Clubs will be closed.
The Southside Hot Tub will be closed.
The Mark Twain Library will be closed.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

Paradise Rec Center is OPEN FOR VOTING.

Plenty of parking spaces, no crowds. Bring a napkin or a glove and your own black ink pen if you don't want to use theirs. You could also just wash your hands when you finish, in their bathroom if you're concerned about the virus.

But - zero crowds. I was the only one in there other than the voting volunteers for a few minutes.

[elevatorman]

Emkay56 look here Village Community Development Districts (https://www.districtgov.org)
City Fire has cancelled all entertainment and dancing, all entertainment is cancelled at the squares. I have been going to Publix and Walgreens daily for neighbors who can't go and myself and it is crowded with some items in short supply.

[elevatorman]

COVID-19 District Action Plan

March 17, 2020 5:00 p.m.

The safety of residents, guests, staff and visitors in The Villages community continues to be of utmost importance to the District. As the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health and Governor DeSantis on the prevention of COVID-19 continues to update, the District implemented the following facility and schedule changes. In addition to the closures below, please refrain from participating in gatherings of 10 or more people as recommended by the CDC.

Recreation Activities – the following changes will be in effect until March 31, 2020:

The operating hours of the Recreation Centers will be 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All scheduled indoor activities in the recreation centers are cancelled.
All Sports Pool activities other than Combo Swim are cancelled.
All scheduled outdoor activities of 10 or more people are cancelled.
The Enrichment Academy (TEA) courses scheduled between March 14th and March 31st are postponed and will be rescheduled. Participants will be notified by email of alternate course dates.
Outdoor Excursions and Lake Sumter Line Boat Tours are cancelled.
All Fitness Clubs are closed.
The Southside Hot Tub is closed.
The Mark Twain Library is closed.
Softball is cancelled.
Recreation Sponsored Leagues are cancelled.
Registration is currently postponed for the following events:
Senior Games
Camp Villages – Easter
Running of the Squares 5K
Parks, Dog Parks, Fenney Putt & Play, Outdoor Exercise Equipment, Sports Courts & Swimming Pools remain open.

[rustyp]

Monday - Lake County first case positive. My prediction of Wed for TV may get shattered tomorrow but I'm sticking with the original prediction of Wed.
Above was my post 3/15.
From the daily sun facebook page.

JUST IN: The first Villages resident has tested positive for COVID-19 at UF Health Leesburg Hospital. The case has been deemed travel-related. The Florida Department of Health has also confirmed the first case in Sumter County.

[elevatorman]

All pools will close as of sunset 03/18/2020.

[twoplanekid]

COVID-19 District Action Plan

March 18, 2020 5:00 p.m.

The safety of residents, guests, staff and visitors in The Villages community continues to be of utmost importance to the District. As the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health and Governor DeSantis on the prevention of COVID-19 continues to update, the District implemented the following facility and schedule changes. In addition to the closures below, please refrain from participating in gatherings of 10 or more people as recommended by the CDC.

Recreation Activities – the following changes will be in effect until further notice:

The operating hours of the Recreation Centers will be 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All swimming pools will be closed beginning at sunset on Wednesday, March 18th.
All scheduled indoor activities in the recreation centers are cancelled.
The Enrichment Academy (TEA) courses scheduled between March 14th and March 31st are postponed and will be rescheduled.

[Michael Charles]

COVID-19 District Action Plan

March 18, 2020 5:00 p.m.

The safety of residents, guests, staff and visitors in The Villages community continues to be of utmost importance to the District. As the guidance provided by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the Florida Department of Health and Governor DeSantis on the prevention of COVID-19 continues to update, the District implemented the following facility and schedule changes. In addition to the closures below, please refrain from participating in gatherings of 10 or more people as recommended by the CDC.

Recreation Activities – the following changes will be in effect until further notice:

The operating hours of the Recreation Centers will be 7:00 a.m. – 8:00 p.m.
All swimming pools will be closed beginning at sunset on Wednesday, March 18th.
All scheduled indoor activities in the recreation centers are cancelled.
The Enrichment Academy (TEA) courses scheduled between March 14th and March 31st are postponed and will be rescheduled.

That about says it all. Thank you for posting this information.

[katsudden]

I don’t know where my post went, so I’m resubmitting. My husband and I have a rental for the month of April. Can someone tell me if neighborhood pools, restaurants, and golf courses are still open? We are not cancelling our trip yet, however, if everything is closed, it doesn’t make much sense to come.
I would cancel while you can. It has already spread to ALL states. Already, elsewhere, restaurants are closing, along with libraries, fitness centers, movie theatres, etc. Why go if you will be stuck in your villa? Also, what if they eventually do state lockdowns? Village hospital already is hard to get a room in, what if you get it? Where will you stay if you need to vacate your rental? Stay home and ride this out. You can always vacation another time.

[Bjeanj]

It’s been a couple of days since last updated..........so what is it like in the Villages today? Restaurant closings? Pool closings (and for that matter, family pools overrun with spring break visiting families.....or deserted because nobody traveling?) My family and I were going to try to make the trip, but now, the quarantine penalties at work and school when we return seem overwhelming a cost.

Please Advise, I’m so heartbroken I can’t leave Cold Wisconsin for a “WARM WEEK”

Don’t come down.

[Nell57]

According to a rec center employee, they were just notified that the pools are closing tomorrow for an indefinite period of time. There are no classes or group activies in any rec centers, you can play pool. Restaurants are open, but can only seat 50% of capacity. You can play pickleball but bring your own water. Golf courses are open, some groups are opting to ride one person per cart. There is no live music on the town squares. It’s sunny and 80 degrees.....beautiful skies. You might have too shelter in place. Be sure and bring your own toilet paper. That’s the situation today, it might change tomorrow.

[wisbad1]

Currently, golf courses, pools, rec ceters and restaurants are open.
pools closed,check villages news.com for updates