Covid-19 and the town squares

[len84pa]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.

[biker1]

Nobody believes the coronavirus is a hoax so I don’t understand why you would say such a thing. If you are uncomfortable with the town squares then don’t go there. To state that The Villages Entertainment is being careless with anyone’s life is absurd - nobody is forcing you to go anywhere. I do not recall reading anywhere that masks were going to be required in the squares - not sure where you got that from. They are requesting masks for the entertainment in the squares. The last time I checked on the Florida coronavirus dashboard, the death rate was in a decline (over the last month).


It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.

[Dana1963]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.
Guidelines on masks were requested by entertainment group but not mandatory

[Stu from NYC]

Wish people would be wearing masks at the entertainment venues but nobody is enforcing it.

We plan to wait some time and see if people start catching the virus before we decide to go.

[bluedivergirl]

We went to Spanish Springs last night. About 50% of people wore masks, and when they got situated, removed them. Villages employees all wore masks the entire time. There was plenty of space, and everyone spread out.

I don't think anyone thinks the virus is a hoax. People simply have different risk tolerance. Our only risk factor is age, and we chose to go. Anyone who is worried should stay home.

IMO, the US will be paying a mental health toll from the lockdown. The level of isolation we had to endure comes with a price for many people.

Your mileage may vary.

[CoachKandSportsguy]

People simply have different risk tolerance. Our only risk factor is age, and we chose to go.

Your mileage may vary.

I agree with the post but I would add “the risk of an individual’s unknown comorbidities”. Higher risks include blood types, any medications masking vascular conditions, etc. so risk tolerances are also effected by information level of known risks.

Not everyone is created equal, but should be treated as an equal

[graciegirl]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.

The problem is this. Most people are in agreement with wearing masks. It is the enforcement of that, that is at issue.

Who would the Entertainment Department call to throw out non mask wearing folks? It is not a law.

Especially those with a snoot full? It is the same everywhere. And it is far deeper than mask wearing. Most people of our age follow rules, except those who don't.

Me and mine are avoiding gatherings until our PCP says to get a vaccine.

It is a matter of personal responsibility. Please stay safe you and everyone.

[Polar Bear]

The problem is this. Most people are in agreement with wearing masks. It is the enforcement of that, that is at issue.

Who would the Entertainment Department call to throw out non mask wearing folks? It is not a law.

Especially those with a snoot full? It is the same everywhere. And it is far deeper than mask wearing. Most people of our age follow rules, except those who don't.

Me and mine are avoiding gatherings until our PCP says to get a vaccine.

It is a matter of personal responsibility. Please stay safe you and everyone.
Like you, GG, everybody has to make there own decisions about how to handle this situation. But regardless of how you feel about wearing masks, so far they are only requested, not required.

You can't enforce a request, so enforcement is not an option at this time.

[8notes]

It seems unfair to those Villages residents who have the intelligence to wear masks, and the thoughtfulness not to be potential Covid spreaders, that they have to avoid the squares because management won't make masks mandatory. We have gone to the Square and sat in our golf cart, away from the action. I'd much rather be out on the dance floor, socially distanced, with a mask, but that is not an option as it now stands. Of course we all know how karma works, as we have seen recently, from the higher ups that scorn masks.

[dadspet]

We have been to the Squares several times this week and while mask wearing is limited once people get situated we found that social distance of much greater than 6' is followed by most on and off the dance floor and is easy to do. I guess there is only so much virtual living (TV) many people can tolerate. :pray: Each of us have to make their choice on what is acceptable risk for the little time we have left and if that acceptable risk out weighs watching others live on TV or reading about others life.

[biker1]

If you think a mask will prevent you from developing COVID-19 then you should consider that approximately 1 million health care workers have contracted the disease and they have access to better PPE than you.

It seems unfair to those Villages residents who have the intelligence to wear masks, and the thoughtfulness not to be potential Covid spreaders, that they have to avoid the squares because management won't make masks mandatory. We have gone to the Square and sat in our golf cart, away from the action. I'd much rather be out on the dance floor, socially distanced, with a mask, but that is not an option as it now stands. Of course we all know how karma works, as we have seen recently, from the higher ups that scorn masks.

[8notes]

Yes, I'm one of those who believes in science and proud to admit it.

[biker1]

If you think the science says that a mask will prevent you from developing COVID-19 then you are mistaken. Nobody has made that claim.


Yes, I'm one of those who believes in science.

[8notes]

No one ever said it prevents you from getting the virus. Scientists liken it to the swiss cheese model - layer one is social distance, layer two is wearing masks, layer three is washing hands, and layer four is Covid testing. All layers are important because each layer is not perfect.

[Polar Bear]

Yes, I'm one of those who believes in science and proud to admit it.
You can totally believe in science and not be as 100% certain about masks...or anything related to the virus for that matter...as your attitude conveys. In fact, if you're as big on science as you say, then you should know very little in science is proven to 100% certainty...and that definitely applies to the C-virus.

[biker1]

Yes, we all know that, thanks for repeating the obvious. How effective masks are in an outside environment is unknown. The impact might be minimal. To suggest that a requirement to wear masks in the squares makes them safe is not based on any science. If you want to be safe, in an absolute sense, not by some percentage that is unknown, don’t go to the squares.


No one ever said it prevents you from getting the virus. Scientists liken it to the swiss cheese model - layer one is social distance, layer two is wearing masks, layer three is washing hands, and layer four is Covid testing. All layers are important because each layer is not perfect.

[8notes]

Yes, we all know that, thanks for repeating the obvious. How effective masks are in an outside environment is unknown. The impact might be minimal. To suggest that a requirement to wear masks in the squares makes them safe is not based on any science. If you want to be safe, in an absolute sense, not by some percentage that is unknown, don’t go to the squares.

I'm getting a laugh out of the condescending mansplaining.. You are not an expert, although, judging by the number of virus related posts you've made, you seem to think so. The experts, the scientists do say that wearing masks makes you safer and that masks, combined with social distancing, make one safer yet. And that being outdoors makes you even more safe. Nothing is 100% nor was that ever stated. In any event, nothing is going to change. The Villages is going along with the governor who is clearly backing the white house. So be it.

[mermaids]

I keep hearing "stay home if you're worried about people in the squares not wearing masks or social distancing" Staying home doesn't keep the spoiled people from spreading it to those who aren't there! Those same no mask wearers also go to other places,like grocery stores, drug stores, ect. So they can still be spreading the virus through not being responsible adults.. i wear a mask to protect others & hope that others will wear a mask to protect me♥️

[biker1]

You should reread your own post. I will quote part of it below:

It seems unfair to those Villages residents who have the intelligence to wear masks, and the thoughtfulness not to be potential Covid spreaders, that they have to avoid the squares because management won't make masks mandatory.

This is really comical. You are asserting that people have to avoid the squares because mask are not mandatory. You clearly see things only in absolute terms as opposed to the way that science shows us how nature operates. There is a probability of contracting the virus at the squares with or without mandatory masks and nobody knows how much they differ by. Apparently you believe mandatory masks would make the squares safe - there isn't any science to support this. Generally, the guidance issued by the states comes down to recommending wearing a mask outdoors when you are not able to maintain 6 feet of social distancing. Even the most hard hit state, New York, does not require mandatory masks outside unless social distancing cannot be maintained. In other words, if this was New York, masks would not be mandatory. You might want to do some research before spouting off about our Governor, The Villages, and the White House because most of the country is doing the same thing as The Villages (recommending masks).


I'm getting a laugh out of the condescending mansplaining.. You are not an expert, although, judging by the number of virus related posts you've made, you seem to think so. The experts, the scientists do say that wearing masks makes you safer and that masks, combined with social distancing, make one safer yet. And that being outdoors makes you even more safe. Nothing is 100% nor was that ever stated. In any event, nothing is going to change. The Villages is going along with the governor who is clearly backing the white house. So be it.

[vintageogauge]

It's been about 9 months now and I still do not personally know of anyone that got the virus let alone died from it and I know a lot of people that really don't give a sh-- about social distancing or wearing a mask. I'm not saying it's a hoax but just stating my personal observation. I do the distancing and carry sanitizer in my pocket, wear the mask when i feel it is needed but not always.

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

It's been about 9 months now and I still do not personally know of anyone that got the virus let alone died from it and I know a lot of people that really don't give a sh-- about social distancing or wearing a mask. I'm not saying it's a hoax but just stating my personal observation. I do the distancing and carry sanitizer in my pocket, wear the mask when i feel it is needed but not always.

It is my personal observation that the earth is flat, except when you encounter a hill, and then it goes up and down.

And yet...

Personal observations are viewed through the lens of myopathy. Just because you don't see it, doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Just because you don't know it, doesn't mean it's not true. And just because you think it, doesn't mean it IS true.

That is why god invented science.

Meanwhile, a lot of people living in The Villages has forgotten that "the bubble" is not a compliment. It is a pretty derogatory term for narrow-mindedness and insular thinking. If it doesn't happen to me, or anyone I'm friendly with, then it really doesn't matter at all.

And that's all well and good. But I personally prefer civilization, and all is different shades and varieties of good, bad, and inbetween.

[Polar Bear]

...a lot of people living in The Villages has forgotten that "the bubble" is not a compliment. It is a pretty derogatory term for narrow-mindedness and insular thinking...
Maybe they haven’t forgotten anything.

Maybe, if they are light-hearted about such terms and have a positive attitude, they just don’t share your opinion that “the bubble” is automatically a derogatory term. :)

[asianthree]

After 3 weeks of retirement, Covid hit, and I was asked to come bac, to the OR. Those with young children wanted to stay Away. Not a problem.

For 5 months wore a 95, plus a surgical mask, plus a face shield. Sometimes used more than once. Unless you developed symptoms you were not tested.

Those who I know that tested positive, returned to work with very little issues, other than using all their vaca time.

Did three types of masks help some, NO. Was there a pattern on who tested positive, NO. We felt it was the luck of the draw. I don’t read the stats or watch the news on Covid, real life is so much better

Do I wear a surgical mask around those I don’t know, when indoors, yes. Outside not so much. Am I going to wait until a vaccine is available to resume my life, NO. But it’s my choice on how I live what is left of my life.

[Altavia]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.

The risk of transmission outside is very low. I'm not aware of any outbreaks traced to groups of people in exterior spaces.

We heard the same warnings after the summer protests, continuing golf, reopening Pickleball, etc... No infections traced to these outside activities.

Superspreader events happen in closed spaces with recirculated air. Wear masks and minimize exposure time in those spaces.

[Rwirish]

Where did you read that mask would be required?

[dewilson58]

I keep hearing "stay home if you're worried about people in the squares not wearing masks or social distancing" Staying home doesn't keep the spoiled people from spreading it to those who aren't there! Those same no mask wearers also go to other places,like grocery stores, drug stores, ect. So they can still be spreading the virus through not being responsible adults.. i wear a mask to protect others & hope that others will wear a mask to protect me♥️


Fair & Reasonable. :ho:

[villageuser]

Nobody believes the coronavirus is a hoax so I don’t understand why you would say such a thing. If you are uncomfortable with the town squares then don’t go there. To state that The Villages Entertainment is being careless with anyone’s life is absurd - nobody is forcing you to go anywhere. I do not recall reading anywhere that masks were going to be required in the squares - not sure where you got that from. They are requesting masks for the entertainment in the squares. The last time I checked on the Florida coronavirus dashboard, the death rate was in a decline (over the last month).

There are plenty of articles in reputable news sources that mention the people who think that COVid worries are over-inflated and, yes, even a hoax. QAnon, for example, is one conspiracy group whose numbers of followers have exponentially grown in the last few years, who embraces that belief.

Also, the death rate may be down, but the cases are increasing, even with It becoming harder to get tested. There are possible long-term medical consequences to this disease, and I’m not referring to transmission, though that’s also a concern. So death is not the only serious result with which we need to be concerned.

[jswirs]

Just stay home!

[Skunky1]

They seem to be catering to the snowflakes and snowbirds. They are coming from hotspots all over the world and they’re bringing us a deadly present.

[msilagy]

It is not a "law" to wear a mask - so not enforceable. Plain and simple.

[Girlcopper]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.
Then stay home. Simple. Masks arent mandatory in the square thats why no one is enforcing it. And dont assume people arent distancing when you see several people close. They are most likely from the same family. I was pretty impressed to see anyone wearing a mask and most were distancing. If someone gets too close to you, Move!! Again, simple

[Girlcopper]

After 3 weeks of retirement, Covid hit, and I was asked to come bac, to the OR. Those with young children wanted to stay Away. Not a problem.

For 5 months wore a 95, plus a surgical mask, plus a face shield. Sometimes used more than once. Unless you developed symptoms you were not tested.

Those who I know that tested positive, returned to work with very little issues, other than using all their vaca time.

Did three types of masks help some, NO. Was there a pattern on who tested positive, NO. We felt it was the luck of the draw. I don’t read the stats or watch the news on Covid, real life is so much better

Do I wear a surgical mask around those I don’t know, when indoors, yes. Outside not so much. Am I going to wait until a vaccine is available to resume my life, NO. But it’s my choice on how I live what is left of my life.
Finally! A voice of reason! Logical thoughts and actions and not the usual hysteria

[Beyond The Wall]

If your afraid Don’t Go. Lock yourself inside

[Hiltongrizz11]

The problem is this. Most people are in agreement with wearing masks. It is the enforcement of that, that is at issue.

Who would the Entertainment Department call to throw out non mask wearing folks? It is not a law.

Especially those with a snoot full? It is the same everywhere. And it is far deeper than mask wearing. Most people of our age follow rules, except those who don't.

Me and mine are avoiding gatherings until our PCP says to get a vaccine.

It is a matter of personal responsibility. Please stay safe you and everyone.


I don't believe for a minute that "most agree with the mask". There is just as.much science that disagrees with the mask as there is that supports it. The media is unfair and you won't read or hear about it though.

[biker1]

Based on the Florida coronavirus dashboard, there is considerable variance in the number of cases reported each day for the last month. However, the overall trend does not appear to be increasing but does appear to be flat. The death rate is in a sharp decline, even when allowing for the fact that the deaths associated with any particular day take a while to be reported.

There are plenty of articles in reputable news sources that mention the people who think that COVid worries are over-inflated and, yes, even a hoax. QAnon, for example, is one conspiracy group whose numbers of followers have exponentially grown in the last few years, who embraces that belief.

Also, the death rate may be down, but the cases are increasing, even with It becoming harder to get tested. There are possible long-term medical consequences to this disease, and I’m not referring to transmission, though that’s also a concern. So death is not the only serious result with which we need to be concerned.

[wilkinson]

To correct your lazy thinking - The mask is basically to protect others from your spittle - if everyone wore a mask no one would catch the virus from breathing the air.

[Garwood1]

The use of intelligence concerning masks is a bit over the top as the facts show masks have shown zero effect in slowing virus any more than the quarantine did , these facts were accrued by a physician who visited every dashboard in the country that had one working , the pandemic according to this physician is now at endemic status and vaccines are at best 60-70% effective

[togabill]

You nailed it. The developer could alternate square nights to satisfy both the mask and unmask residents. There are solutions in this divided country to be fair to all. However people would rather verbally abuse each other than look for solutions. The Villages use to be known as the Friendliest Hometown. Now a lot of residents on all sides have lost that part.

[biker1]

Please provide a reputable scientific reference to support your claim.

Here is a summary of the latest CDC thinking:

The coronavirus is airborne -- what that means for you - CNET (https://www.cnet.com/health/is-the-coronavirus-airborne-the-scientific-consensus/)

To correct your lazy thinking - The mask is basically to protect others from your spittle - if everyone wore a mask no one would catch the virus from breathing the air.

[graciegirl]

I don't believe for a minute that "most agree with the mask". There is just as.much science that disagrees with the mask as there is that supports it. The media is unfair and you won't read or hear about it though.

Gallup poll: Most in U.S. wear mask in pubic 'always' or 'very often' - UPI.com (https://www.upi.com/Top_News/US/2020/07/13/Poll-Most-in-US-wear-mask-in-public-always-or-very-often/9021594646546/)

Poll Finds Record Number Of Americans Are Wearing Masks (https://www.forbes.com/sites/tommybeer/2020/07/06/poll-finds-record-number-of-americans-are-wearing-masks/#4dd751183448)

More Americans now say they regularly wear masks in stores, businesses | Pew Research Center (https://www.pewresearch.org/fact-tank/2020/08/27/more-americans-say-they-are-regularly-wearing-masks-in-stores-and-other-businesses/)

[PennBF]

What is the payback for those who insist Mask's are not needed. Is it just plain stupidity, or to compensate for an inferior complex and want to appear smarter than they are, etc? All serious and knowledgeable experts agree they are the first protection against a spread
of the serious health risks. Again, what is their payback for trying to mislead people from their beliefs? :ho:

[len84pa]

I am uncomfortable with the inconsiderate people who refuse to believe in science like the Big Boss.

The fix is simple: The squares have barricades, no one gets in without a mask. If you don't want to wear a mask....STAY AWAY!

[Lindsyburnsy]

It’s not a law to wear a shirt in a store, but we do. It’s a policy, just like wearing a mask.

[Bob.Betty]

You truly believe most people are in agreement with wearing a mask?

[Carole A]

I was at Lake Sumter Saturday and there was no masks at square

[billethkid]

Maybe there could be designated mask and no mask squares?:duck:

[ldivens]

That's right the virus is not going away and will get worse because we locked-down. We are human beings and some of the measures have been totally inhumane. Hopefully, we know a lot more after 8 months, however, what I hear from Doctors around the US they are NOT allowed to practice medicine based on the individual, they are DICTATED how to treat people. Many doctors agree the lock down only prolonged the life of the virus and now we have lost why we locked down in the first place If you are at risk stay home otherwise we have a 99.7% chance of recovery and if you don't damage your immune systems with fear, anger, weight gain and stress you may not get it at all.

[meridian5850]

I continue be amazed at how many folks seem to think everyone they encounter has the virus, when in fact, several days ago Dr. Mike Ryan, WHO Health Emergencies Program Director, said their best guess is that 10% of the world's population has been infected, or about 750 million people. WHO's data says that about 1 million people have died from it. Disregarding whether they died "from" it or "with" it, doing the basic math:

1,000,000 ÷ 750,000,000 = .0013
.0013 x 100 = 0.13% death rate of those infected

OR 99.87% of everyone who gets it survive.

Covid-19: World in ‘for a hell of a ride’ in coming months, Dr Mike Ryan says

There have been 7.7 million cases in the USA, well below the 10% figure above. The 2009 H1N1 flu infected over 60,000,000 people. Which one was more contagious? The average death rate for the seasonal flu is 0.1% vs. 0.13% to Covid-19. No one batted an eye back then thinking they might get the flu and so many ITT in a panic for this.

Also, 40% of the deaths in the USA are from nursing homes because the governors of 4 or 5 states thought it was smart to put covid patients into them.

[ts12755]

This man-made China virus is here to stay.... if you are scared, stay home... we must live our life... you are responsible for your safety and health... not Village entertainment.

[OhioBuckeye]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.

If you like or dislike wearing a mask don’t go to the entertainment, it’s your choice. Besides how are they going to enforce it, tell you to leave & make a resident mad. I know they can tell you to leave but that won’t make TV look good. So if a mask keeps you safe & you wear one, great. If you don’t wear one that’s up to you, but at least the ones that wear one, they say your safe & if you don’t wear one & get Covid19. That was your choice!

[graciegirl]

If your afraid Don’t Go. Lock yourself inside

COVID-19: In desperate need of oxygen - The Jerusalem Post (https://www.jpost.com/israel-news/up-close-with-the-reality-of-coronavirus-in-israel-645061)

[Ruth Garza]

I’m just so nonplussed by the number of people who complain about who has in masks and who doesn’t. If you need a mask, wear it. If you don’t agree with masks, don’t wear it. If you feel safe being around other humans, be there. If you don’t feel safe, don’t be there. Stop the constant complaining.

[graciegirl]

Opinion | Where Are the Photos of People Dying of Covid? - The New York Times (https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/01/opinion/coronavirus-photography.html)

As coronavirus fills French ICUs anew, doctors ask what went wrong (https://www.9news.com.au/world/france-coronavirus-icu-hospitals-fill-up-again/bb5bd60e-3cd5-434f-9c3b-196c09436b3e)

Lesson not learned: Europe unprepared as 2nd virus wave hits (https://www.winknews.com/2020/10/10/lesson-not-learned-europe-unprepared-as-2nd-virus-wave-hits/)

[billethkid]

Add the visual of a loved one entering the hospital and that may well be the last time they will see each other!!

The realities of what some have endured and are enduring.

All of a sudden bickering about whether to wear a mask fades to insignificance!!!

[Taltarzac725]

You may not know you even have Covid-19. I do all of the shopping, banking, dog walking, etc., in this household because my parents do not get around that well any more. I donate platelets at One Blood and they check temperatures at the door and STILL require you wear a mask while donating. They also test for Corona Virus so the blood supply does not get contaminated. I have tested negative 9 times since late May 2020 but can imagine my getting the disease as my guard is not always up. I cannot keep it up at all times as there are so many things I touch in a given day. I do use hand sanitizer frequently.

Listen to the physicians, nurses, etc., who deal with this disease every day and ignore anyone who has a personal or other interest in your wearing a mask.

[LG999]

Dear Snotes,
How can we socially distance (6ft or more) while dancing? Its hard & takes the fun out of it. Even in a line dance its difficult to spread out that far.
IMO if I wear a mask, I am protected. If others do not, maybe they are taking a risk but maybe not. Maybe they know they have their own antibodies from being tested or know they have a robust immune system.

[cassjax2]

My thought is The Villages is not in charge of my health, I am. If I chose not to wear a mask and contracted the disease then it is my fault. I’m really tired of people not taking responsibility for their actions and then blaming it on someone else.

[rjm1cc]

The damage caused by the shut down is not really entering into most discussions and the actual damage may not be know for years. But I do not find it hard to believe that for some the damage will be significant.
For masks, I try and avoid places where they are not worn. Remember the masks protects others from you. If you are in favor of trying to get back to normal as soon as possible wear a mask. You just hurt those that need to work and can not because you do not wear a mask.

[coffeebean]

We are just blooming for a while where we are planted.

Gracie, Is that one of your expressions of wisdom? I love it.

[coffeebean]

I was at Lake Sumter Saturday and there was no masks at square

I'm a HUGE proponent of wearing masks INDOORS. Outdoors, the risk is minimal if you are distanced properly and follow CDC guidelines. I do not wear a mask outdoors when it is easy to keep my distance from others while sipping on an alcoholic beverage.

[coffeebean]

If you like or dislike wearing a mask don’t go to the entertainment, it’s your choice. Besides how are they going to enforce it, tell you to leave & make a resident mad. I know they can tell you to leave but that won’t make TV look good. So if a mask keeps you safe & you wear one, great. If you don’t wear one that’s up to you, but at least the ones that wear one, they say your safe & if you don’t wear one & get Covid19. That was your choice!

Hubby and I were at Edna's on the Green (outside) to see Johnny Wild perform. Social distancing was genuinely attempted from where we were seated. I did not see anyone wearing masks while seated but some masks were worn while waiting on line for bar drinks. Social distancing was not really adhered to while on line for the bar.

I felt safe enough to enjoy the couple of hours we were there.

[coffeebean]

You may not know you even have Covid-19. I do all of the shopping, banking, dog walking, etc., in this household because my parents do not get around that well any more. I donate platelets at One Blood and they check temperatures at the door and STILL require you wear a mask while donating. They also test for Corona Virus so the blood supply does not get contaminated. I have tested negative 9 times since late May 2020 but can imagine my getting the disease as my guard is not always up. I cannot keep it up at all times as there are so many things I touch in a given day. I do use hand sanitizer frequently.

Listen to the physicians, nurses, etc., who deal with this disease every day and ignore anyone who has a personal or other interest in your wearing a mask.

Touch anything you like; just do not touch your face with unwashed or unsanitized hands. Easy.

[jimjamuser]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.
Noted epidemiologist Michael Olsterholm predicted 2 months ago that the White House would suffer a spike. He said that the US has 57,000 new cases per day recently and he expects 100,000 new cases per day to occur soon. You can Google him. He said that the rapid tests used by the White House are worthless. They will give a negative reading 50% of the time for a positive individual. He says those tests are the equivalent of having the Secret Service carry water pistols against an assassination attempt. He states that the current way the US and Europe are opening up is a recipe for a disaster. He blames it on "Covid fatigue" and some other factors like the winter weather.

Note that Australia and Asian Countries have done MUCH better!

[EdFNJ]

Dear Snotes,
How can we socially distance (6ft or more) while dancing? Its hard & takes the fun out of it. Even in a line dance its difficult to spread out that far.
IMO if I wear a mask, I am protected. If others do not, maybe they are taking a risk but maybe not. Maybe they know they have their own antibodies from being tested or know they have a robust immune system.

My thought is The Villages is not in charge of my health, I am. If I chose not to wear a mask and contracted the disease then it is my fault. I’m really tired of people not taking responsibility for their actions and then blaming it on someone else.

While there is no law requiring you do do anything just as a basic Covid fact that you both have wrong (backwards): For the most part, YOU wearing a mask does NOT protect YOU it protects those around YOU FROM YOU. By YOU choosing not to wear a mask you could POSSIBLY risk others health FROM YOU.

After 8 months of this and hundreds of message threads about masks and millions of articles and reports one would think at least that basic fact would be understood. Masks are meant mainly to protect OTHERS FROM YOU (and to a very small extent YOU from OTHERS).

[coffeebean]

While there is no law requiring you do do anything just as a basic Covid fact that you both have wrong (backwards): For the most part, YOU wearing a mask does NOT protect YOU it protects those around YOU FROM YOU. By YOU choosing not to wear a mask you could POSSIBLY risk others health FROM YOU.

After 8 months of this and hundreds of message threads about masks and millions of articles and reports one would think at least that basic fact would be understood. Masks are meant mainly to protect OTHERS FROM YOU (and to a very small extent YOU from OTHERS).

Agree!

[jimjamuser]

If you think the science says that a mask will prevent you from developing COVID-19 then you are mistaken. Nobody has made that claim.
You Tube has videos of droplet dispersal, with and without masks. That IS the PROOF. Of course, there are more factors like indoors vs outdoors etc.

[jimjamuser]

It is my personal observation that the earth is flat, except when you encounter a hill, and then it goes up and down.

And yet...

Personal observations are viewed through the lens of myopathy. Just because you don't see it, doesn't mean it doesn't exist. Just because you don't know it, doesn't mean it's not true. And just because you think it, doesn't mean it IS true.

That is why god invented science.

Meanwhile, a lot of people living in The Villages has forgotten that "the bubble" is not a compliment. It is a pretty derogatory term for narrow-mindedness and insular thinking. If it doesn't happen to me, or anyone I'm friendly with, then it really doesn't matter at all.

And that's all well and good. But I personally prefer civilization, and all is different shades and varieties of good, bad, and inbetween.
Great post!

[OrangeBlossomBaby]

They seem to be catering to the snowflakes and snowbirds. They are coming from hotspots all over the world and they’re bringing us a deadly present.

Er no, FLORIDA was the hotspot. Those states where these people have come from had reduced the risk significantly by mandating shutdowns, mask-wearing, and social distancing. We are the ones infecting them, not vice versa.

If the rate goes up it's because they have jumped into the petri dish that is Florida.

[jimjamuser]

The risk of transmission outside is very low. I'm not aware of any outbreaks traced to groups of people in exterior spaces.

We heard the same warnings after the summer protests, continuing golf, reopening Pickleball, etc... No infections traced to these outside activities.

Superspreader events happen in closed spaces with recirculated air. Wear masks and minimize exposure time in those spaces.
Sorry. There are MANY examples of spiking after an OUTDOOR event. The Tulsa campaign event was one. Outside is better, but there is still spread.

[biker1]

You missed the point. I was responding to a post that essentially asserted that using a mask outdoors would protect you from the coronavirus. That is not true. It may reduce the probability of you contracting the virus. By how much, is unknown.

You Tube has videos of droplet dispersal, with and without masks. That IS the PROOF. Of course, there are more factors like indoors vs outdoors etc.

[biker1]

The Florida coronvirus dashboard has the number of cases essentially flat for the last month and the number of deaths declining sharply.

Er no, FLORIDA was the hotspot. Those states where these people have come from had reduced the risk significantly by mandating shutdowns, mask-wearing, and social distancing. We are the ones infecting them, not vice versa.

If the rate goes up it's because they have jumped into the petri dish that is Florida.

[Gpsma]

Agree!

Lol...but still laugh when a couple in a car pull up next to me and both are wearing masks.

But keeping us all safe...lol

[8notes]

Sorry. There are MANY examples of spiking after an OUTDOOR event. The Tulsa campaign event was one. Outside is better, but there is still spread.

The Sturgis motorcycle rally was another. The nomination ceremony the White House held outside in the rose garden for his supreme court pick....the list goes on and on....

[Chitown]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax. Its 6:30 PM Monday night 10-12-20 I’m at Panera Bread in Lake Sumter Landing listening to the band in the square. About 150-175 people in the dance area. The sidewalks surrounding the square are filled with people standing and sitting. People are in their golf carts and in their cars with their windows down listening to the music. The outdoor seating at all the restaurants are filled. Maybe 10% have masks on. Everyone here appears to be in a happy mood and based on people’s interactions with one another not much fear. I think many people have weighed the risks and decided to go on with their lives without fear. And just like I’m not judging your decision to stay home or use caution you should feel the same way for your fellow Villager who are out enjoying themselves.

[Dayeight99]

Theater, virtue signaling. Plain and simple. Where were the mask nazis in 2017, 2009? Every year there is a contagious flu. Why now? Theater.

[coffeebean]

Sorry. There are MANY examples of spiking after an OUTDOOR event. The Tulsa campaign event was one. Outside is better, but there is still spread.

The Tulsa rally was INDOORS.

[coffeebean]

The Sturgis motorcycle rally was another. The nomination ceremony the White House held outside in the rose garden for his supreme court pick....the list goes on and on....

There was an INDOOR reception for Judge Barrett prior to the gathering in the Rose Garden.

[tophcfa]

So my question is, does anyone actually believe Covid is suddenly more under control then when everything was shut down last a March? I personally think not, people are just burned out from the whole thing and have decided to make like an ostrich and bury their head in the sand and pretend the pandemic doesn’t exist? I guess time will tell?

[Altavia]

The Sturgis motorcycle rally was another. The nomination ceremony the White House held outside in the rose garden for his supreme court pick....the list goes on and on....

Sturgis was traced to inside bars.

The press showed people scattered at the rose garden but transmission traced to the indoor reception prior.

The beast is airborne, mask up and minimize time in interior spaces with recirculated air.

The uncertainty of relying on testing only was clearly demonstrated.

[Altavia]

Sorry. There are MANY examples of spiking after an OUTDOOR event. The Tulsa campaign event was one. Outside is better, but there is still spread.

Really? Tulsa was inside...

[Dana1963]

It was my understanding that the town squares would open with entertainment and require masks be worn by EVERYONE. How can the Village Entertainment be so careless with peoples lives. The last time I checked, Florida's positive test rate and death rate is still increasing. This virus is NOT going away, in fact, it will get worse as the winter months approach until a certified vaccine is developed.

Stop giving in to a few who still believe this virus is a hoax.
Whatever happens, it's up to the DEVELOPER who controls the Squares and Entertainment. It's up to the individual whether they shall attend or not due to safety concerns. No one is forced to attend!

[Dgizzi]

Wish people would be wearing masks at the entertainment venues but nobody is enforcing it.

We plan to wait some time and see if people start catching the virus before we decide to go.
I am not wearing a mask outside. Or while in a car. The longer you stay isolated from people, the easier you will catch a cold.

[JoMar]

It's been about 9 months now and I still do not personally know of anyone that got the virus let alone died from it and I know a lot of people that really don't give a sh-- about social distancing or wearing a mask. I'm not saying it's a hoax but just stating my personal observation. I do the distancing and carry sanitizer in my pocket, wear the mask when i feel it is needed but not always.

Our neighborhood has had 8 positives, 2 hospitalized and several have friends and family that have died in other states. Our neighborhood has an agreement that if you are positive you make it public to the rest of the neighborhood so we can can contact trace.

[graciegirl]

Our neighborhood has had 8 positives, 2 hospitalized and several have friends and family that have died in other states. Our neighborhood has an agreement that if you are positive you make it public to the rest of the neighborhood so we can can contact trace.

Not that I know of in our small village. But I have told you about two friends in Country Club Hills and two long time friends in Ohio. The first two were badly sickened and hospitalized and the second two, married so happily for years died within ten days of each other.

I just heard of neighbors that attended the rally in Sanford.

It is a microbe, a little infectious thing that passes in the air and is capable of serious complications. Much like the old fashioned measles.

I would not take a precious little person anywhere that I knew had the possibility of causing serious illness. No matter what was happening or wonderful the event. I would not want my older friends who I cherish to be exposed to an illness that could place them in ICU. It is really quite simple. Have we forgotten the diseases that many of us older people witnessed before there were treatments and vaccines for them?

There is yet to be found an answer to Covid-19. It mercifully doesn't seem to target small children, although some have died. 80% of it's victims are over 70.

I still wouldn't say to folks in their fifties or younger to just "run and play".

I am not a medically trained person. I taught little ones for decades and we were very careful of them in the classroom. That was before both parents worked outside the home.

I am not paranoid. I am not frightened but I am doing what the center for disease control suggests. (or at least the latest things they suggest) They can't help it. The world is STILL in the fact finding mode about this little ******* killer.

[jaj523]

The death rate in Florida is WAY down. The only reason the positive rate is high is the fact that Florida is testing many more people than most states. The more people tested the more positive results. Testing positive is not a death sentence. A great many people have positive results with no symptoms, or very mild ones. The survival rate is 95% even in people over 75. People have free will. Let people who want to go to the squares go. You are welcome to stay home.

[graciegirl]

The death rate in Florida is WAY down. The only reason the positive rate is high is the fact that Florida is testing many more people than most states. The more people tested the more positive results. Testing positive is not a death sentence. A great many people have positive results with no symptoms, or very mild ones. The survival rate is 95% even in people over 75. People have free will. Let people who want to go to the squares go. You are welcome to stay home.

Out of 100 people over 75 that contract Covid-19, five will die.

FIVE WILL DIE.