Coronavirus prep

Gisel2015 · May 2020

I am sure that some of you are already aware of this information.' but Just in case you are not, here it goes..

[b]CDC releases warning about Covid-related pediatric syndrome
[/b]
From CNN's Maggie Fox

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention issued a health advisory to thousands of doctors across the country Thursday, advising them to be on the lookout for a troubling new syndrome that may be associated with Covid-19 infection.

The syndrome, called multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C), has been seen in children across Europe and in at least 18 states, plus Washington, DC.

“During March and April, cases of COVID-19 rapidly increased in New York City and New York State. In early May 2020, the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene received reports of children with multisystem inflammatory syndrome,” the CDC health advisory said. “There is limited information currently available about risk factors, pathogenesis, clinical course, and treatment for MIS-C.

"CDC is requesting healthcare providers report suspected cases to public health authorities to better characterize this newly recognized condition in the pediatric population," the advisory said.

MikePfirrman · May 2020

I don't know if anyone saw this or not but their stock is soaring. I'm a bit skeptical when it comes to small Biotech company claims, but the science they are basing this off of is fairly straight-forward. There have been many companies that have been looking at the 1000s of antibodies, hoping to find one that works in labs versus Covid-19. This company claims they have found one that totally works against it 100% of the time. Supposedly waiting on FDA approval and also scale up.

If true (and I know other companies working on this as well), it would be a game changer. Would be some welcome news indeed.

Understand, this doesn't keep you from getting it. It simply prevents the virus from doing damage, so it's a vaccine but subtle difference. A true Vaccine might never be found so this might be the best we get.

https://techcrunch.com/2020/05/15/sorrento-finds-a-coronavirus-antibody-that-blocks-viral-infection-100-in-preclinical-lab-experiments/?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAADQEtX4Wg3yS4_6Gvd9ATwFt3rhj1u4-wUTD_wWx_JnMydBXGzlpPbySHpDMFw5OL9a4j5B13ugeMu8wAV9tR7RYEinvQzIe9__IQ61flZkKaETuYQ1pHHMHWP1EiitJapkQSiJsYcwF7ULgKzpJKVgtZ_3cbinUgFRSboKdH1Ki

kshama2001 · May 2020

Wow, just got an email from my church parent association suggesting no in person meetings until this time next year:

"As states around the country begin to loosen guidelines and take actions to reopen, even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to climb, we have received many questions from congregations about returning to in-person gatherings.

Over the past several weeks, the UUA has consulted with multiple public health officials in order to update the guidance we provided on March 12 recommending congregations stop gathering in person.

Based on advice from experts, we continue to recommend that congregations not gather in person. We also recommend that congregations begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

[Rational included but it is long so I am using this tag:]

Take a moment to breathe. I know this is significant.

While there is much public conversation about "reopening," the reality is public health officials consistently predict a long trajectory for this pandemic. A majority of our congregational members, leaders, and staff members are in high-risk categories. Our care for the well-being and safety of our members and staff must be a priority in this pandemic.

This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors.

Additionally, religious gatherings are considered highly contagious events. The acts of singing, the familiarity of people across households, the multigenerational community of children, youth, adults, and seniors-the things that make our congregations so special-also create more risk for spreading the virus.

Given that so much uncertainty and risk remain, anticipating a year of virtual operations allows for more creative long-term planning, while still being flexible if conditions change significantly. We recognize that with time, and depending on the specific conditions and recommendations of local public health officials, small in-person groups of people and limited staff activities onsite may become possible while wearing masks, observing social distancing guidelines, and following diligent cleaning practices.

In making our recommendations, we are guided by science and our deepest held values. This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors and so it is imperative that we make choices that keep our congregations and larger community safer. As COVID-19 disproportionately impacts people with disabilities, Black people, Indigenous communities, Latinx people, the elderly, and essential workers, a majority of whom are women and women of color, religious communities have a moral responsibility to do all we can to reduce risks for those already at such high risk.

Public health officials are clear. There will need to be multiple weeks of reduction in infections, adequate testing, sufficient personal protective equipment available, contact tracing programs, and perhaps a vaccine before it will be safe for many of our congregations to fully gather in person again.

All this said, our ministries are essential services. I am moved by congregations who are increasing their services and generosity to the larger community during this pandemic. I am inspired by those who are keeping their "virtual" doors open. Many congregations have committed to keeping their services widely accessible and available to new people and visitors, while also creating more opportunities for virtual small groups to tend to the social, spiritual, emotional, and material needs of their members.

We hope that a vaccine or an effective treatment will be found soon to change this timeline. In the meantime, being able to plan the longer horizon of virtual services offers an opportunity to be creative in planning for life-giving, essential ministry across physical distance.

Our detailed UUA Guidelines on Gathering In Person as COVID-19 Subsides include specific questions for congregations to ask to determine risk assessment and readiness plans before beginning any moves to gather in person. We will continue to update them as more information becomes available. As always, we encourage you to reach out to UUA regional staff if you need support in your planning.

I continue to hold you, your community, and all of our people in my heart and in my prayers. I know adjusting to this new reality is heartbreaking. I also believe congregations who continue to lean into their mission and life-saving ministry will find ways to thrive in this time. Ministry is so deeply needed. As is moral leadership rooted in community care and in science. May we keep offering this to our communities.

Yours in love and gratitude,

Susan

Diatonic12 · May 2020

Maybe they're thinking about other choirs/singing-breath outward bound/close proximity issues in other churches.

https://www.businessinsider.com/coronavirus-cdc-says-washington-choir-session-53-cases-2-deaths-2020-5

whoami67 · May 2020

kshama2001 wrote: »

Wow, just got an email from my church parent association suggesting no in person meetings until this time next year:

"As states around the country begin to loosen guidelines and take actions to reopen, even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to climb, we have received many questions from congregations about returning to in-person gatherings.

Over the past several weeks, the UUA has consulted with multiple public health officials in order to update the guidance we provided on March 12 recommending congregations stop gathering in person.

Based on advice from experts, we continue to recommend that congregations not gather in person. We also recommend that congregations begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

[Rational included but it is long so I am using this tag:]
Take a moment to breathe. I know this is significant.

While there is much public conversation about "reopening," the reality is public health officials consistently predict a long trajectory for this pandemic. A majority of our congregational members, leaders, and staff members are in high-risk categories. Our care for the well-being and safety of our members and staff must be a priority in this pandemic.

This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors.

Additionally, religious gatherings are considered highly contagious events. The acts of singing, the familiarity of people across households, the multigenerational community of children, youth, adults, and seniors-the things that make our congregations so special-also create more risk for spreading the virus.

Given that so much uncertainty and risk remain, anticipating a year of virtual operations allows for more creative long-term planning, while still being flexible if conditions change significantly. We recognize that with time, and depending on the specific conditions and recommendations of local public health officials, small in-person groups of people and limited staff activities onsite may become possible while wearing masks, observing social distancing guidelines, and following diligent cleaning practices.

In making our recommendations, we are guided by science and our deepest held values. This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors and so it is imperative that we make choices that keep our congregations and larger community safer. As COVID-19 disproportionately impacts people with disabilities, Black people, Indigenous communities, Latinx people, the elderly, and essential workers, a majority of whom are women and women of color, religious communities have a moral responsibility to do all we can to reduce risks for those already at such high risk.

Public health officials are clear. There will need to be multiple weeks of reduction in infections, adequate testing, sufficient personal protective equipment available, contact tracing programs, and perhaps a vaccine before it will be safe for many of our congregations to fully gather in person again.

All this said, our ministries are essential services. I am moved by congregations who are increasing their services and generosity to the larger community during this pandemic. I am inspired by those who are keeping their "virtual" doors open. Many congregations have committed to keeping their services widely accessible and available to new people and visitors, while also creating more opportunities for virtual small groups to tend to the social, spiritual, emotional, and material needs of their members.

We hope that a vaccine or an effective treatment will be found soon to change this timeline. In the meantime, being able to plan the longer horizon of virtual services offers an opportunity to be creative in planning for life-giving, essential ministry across physical distance.

Our detailed UUA Guidelines on Gathering In Person as COVID-19 Subsides include specific questions for congregations to ask to determine risk assessment and readiness plans before beginning any moves to gather in person. We will continue to update them as more information becomes available. As always, we encourage you to reach out to UUA regional staff if you need support in your planning.

I continue to hold you, your community, and all of our people in my heart and in my prayers. I know adjusting to this new reality is heartbreaking. I also believe congregations who continue to lean into their mission and life-saving ministry will find ways to thrive in this time. Ministry is so deeply needed. As is moral leadership rooted in community care and in science. May we keep offering this to our communities.

Yours in love and gratitude,

Susan

What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? There are worse things than dying.

Theoldguy1 · May 2020

kshama2001 wrote: »

Wow, just got an email from my church parent association suggesting no in person meetings until this time next year:

"As states around the country begin to loosen guidelines and take actions to reopen, even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to climb, we have received many questions from congregations about returning to in-person gatherings.

Over the past several weeks, the UUA has consulted with multiple public health officials in order to update the guidance we provided on March 12 recommending congregations stop gathering in person.

Based on advice from experts, we continue to recommend that congregations not gather in person. We also recommend that congregations begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

[Rational included but it is long so I am using this tag:]
Take a moment to breathe. I know this is significant.

While there is much public conversation about "reopening," the reality is public health officials consistently predict a long trajectory for this pandemic. A majority of our congregational members, leaders, and staff members are in high-risk categories. Our care for the well-being and safety of our members and staff must be a priority in this pandemic.

This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors.

Additionally, religious gatherings are considered highly contagious events. The acts of singing, the familiarity of people across households, the multigenerational community of children, youth, adults, and seniors-the things that make our congregations so special-also create more risk for spreading the virus.

Given that so much uncertainty and risk remain, anticipating a year of virtual operations allows for more creative long-term planning, while still being flexible if conditions change significantly. We recognize that with time, and depending on the specific conditions and recommendations of local public health officials, small in-person groups of people and limited staff activities onsite may become possible while wearing masks, observing social distancing guidelines, and following diligent cleaning practices.

In making our recommendations, we are guided by science and our deepest held values. This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors and so it is imperative that we make choices that keep our congregations and larger community safer. As COVID-19 disproportionately impacts people with disabilities, Black people, Indigenous communities, Latinx people, the elderly, and essential workers, a majority of whom are women and women of color, religious communities have a moral responsibility to do all we can to reduce risks for those already at such high risk.

Public health officials are clear. There will need to be multiple weeks of reduction in infections, adequate testing, sufficient personal protective equipment available, contact tracing programs, and perhaps a vaccine before it will be safe for many of our congregations to fully gather in person again.

All this said, our ministries are essential services. I am moved by congregations who are increasing their services and generosity to the larger community during this pandemic. I am inspired by those who are keeping their "virtual" doors open. Many congregations have committed to keeping their services widely accessible and available to new people and visitors, while also creating more opportunities for virtual small groups to tend to the social, spiritual, emotional, and material needs of their members.

We hope that a vaccine or an effective treatment will be found soon to change this timeline. In the meantime, being able to plan the longer horizon of virtual services offers an opportunity to be creative in planning for life-giving, essential ministry across physical distance.

Our detailed UUA Guidelines on Gathering In Person as COVID-19 Subsides include specific questions for congregations to ask to determine risk assessment and readiness plans before beginning any moves to gather in person. We will continue to update them as more information becomes available. As always, we encourage you to reach out to UUA regional staff if you need support in your planning.

I continue to hold you, your community, and all of our people in my heart and in my prayers. I know adjusting to this new reality is heartbreaking. I also believe congregations who continue to lean into their mission and life-saving ministry will find ways to thrive in this time. Ministry is so deeply needed. As is moral leadership rooted in community care and in science. May we keep offering this to our communities.

Yours in love and gratitude,

Susan

JB Pritzker, governor of IL suggested 12-18 months before religious gathering places fully reopen. Criteria for fully reopening is a vaccine or effective, widely available treatment.

To my understanding thensame rules apply to gatherings for any purpose.

Diatonic12 · May 2020

We're not supposed to step into political or religious debate. Churches closed due to common horse sense prevailing during an emergency event. For health care workers on the front lines there's nothing worse than losing them for their loved ones. I have two EMT's in my family It's a calling and not a job for them. One of them serves as an EMS Chaplain, too. Their young children need them to live. We could be stuck on an island or lost in a national forest, fall down a canyon and not be alone or at risk of losing anything. Stepping into a building doesn't guarantee we're going anywhere beyond the threshold.

moonangel12 · May 2020

Our church is tentatively opening doors on June 7, but with major changes (and the disclaimer that it may or may not happen, and can change at any moment from week to week... they will still have virtual service as well). Hand sanitizer stations throughout, a scrubber system in the duct work (pastor is an HVAC guy), pews blocked off and families together, spaced out from everyone else. Bulletins and offering plate will be “self service” not handed out/passed. Trying to remember some of the other things in place. Only certain restrooms open, and children under 10 much be accompanied. No Sunday school or nursery for the foreseeable future (a room will be open for parents to take their children, but they have to stay with them). They were also big on hugging, and took pride in that (they wanted to make Heritage Huggers tshirts LOL). No hugging or shaking of hands, they are coming up with a new no-contact gesture which sounds silly, but there are some that truly need something if they can’t hug you... the last week I was at church before things shut down it was almost comical the awkwardness because people just didn’t know what to do!

lemurcat2 · May 2020

Diatonic12 wrote: »

We're not supposed to step into political or religious debate. Churches closed due to common horse sense prevailing during an emergency event. For health care workers on the front lines there's nothing worse than losing them for their loved ones. I have two EMT's in my family It's a calling and not a job for them. One of them serves as an EMS Chaplain, too. Their young children need them to live. We could be stuck on an island or lost in a national forest, fall down a canyon and not be alone or at risk of losing anything. Stepping into a building doesn't guarantee we're going anywhere beyond the threshold.

True, and far worse than dying for me would be being responsible for the deaths of others. I can't shrug the risk of that off.

lemurcat2 · May 2020

moonangel12 wrote: »

the last week I was at church before things shut down it was almost comical the awkwardness because people just didn’t know what to do!

We normally shake hands as the sign of peace after the Our Father, and the last week before in-person masses were ended people were waving instead. Not too awkward as people do that ordinarily if sick.

moonangel12 · May 2020

lemurcat2 wrote: »

True, and far worse than dying for me would be being responsible for the deaths of others. I can't shrug the risk of that off.

That is the driving force/mentality for many of my current decisions. I don’t wear a mask for me... I wear a mask for my family and for those around me. Same for my/our current hermit status.

kimny72 · May 2020

whoami67 wrote: »

kshama2001 wrote: »

Wow, just got an email from my church parent association suggesting no in person meetings until this time next year:

"As states around the country begin to loosen guidelines and take actions to reopen, even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to climb, we have received many questions from congregations about returning to in-person gatherings.

Over the past several weeks, the UUA has consulted with multiple public health officials in order to update the guidance we provided on March 12 recommending congregations stop gathering in person.

Based on advice from experts, we continue to recommend that congregations not gather in person. We also recommend that congregations begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

[Rational included but it is long so I am using this tag:]
Take a moment to breathe. I know this is significant.

While there is much public conversation about "reopening," the reality is public health officials consistently predict a long trajectory for this pandemic. A majority of our congregational members, leaders, and staff members are in high-risk categories. Our care for the well-being and safety of our members and staff must be a priority in this pandemic.

This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors.

Additionally, religious gatherings are considered highly contagious events. The acts of singing, the familiarity of people across households, the multigenerational community of children, youth, adults, and seniors-the things that make our congregations so special-also create more risk for spreading the virus.

Given that so much uncertainty and risk remain, anticipating a year of virtual operations allows for more creative long-term planning, while still being flexible if conditions change significantly. We recognize that with time, and depending on the specific conditions and recommendations of local public health officials, small in-person groups of people and limited staff activities onsite may become possible while wearing masks, observing social distancing guidelines, and following diligent cleaning practices.

In making our recommendations, we are guided by science and our deepest held values. This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors and so it is imperative that we make choices that keep our congregations and larger community safer. As COVID-19 disproportionately impacts people with disabilities, Black people, Indigenous communities, Latinx people, the elderly, and essential workers, a majority of whom are women and women of color, religious communities have a moral responsibility to do all we can to reduce risks for those already at such high risk.

Public health officials are clear. There will need to be multiple weeks of reduction in infections, adequate testing, sufficient personal protective equipment available, contact tracing programs, and perhaps a vaccine before it will be safe for many of our congregations to fully gather in person again.

All this said, our ministries are essential services. I am moved by congregations who are increasing their services and generosity to the larger community during this pandemic. I am inspired by those who are keeping their "virtual" doors open. Many congregations have committed to keeping their services widely accessible and available to new people and visitors, while also creating more opportunities for virtual small groups to tend to the social, spiritual, emotional, and material needs of their members.

We hope that a vaccine or an effective treatment will be found soon to change this timeline. In the meantime, being able to plan the longer horizon of virtual services offers an opportunity to be creative in planning for life-giving, essential ministry across physical distance.

Our detailed UUA Guidelines on Gathering In Person as COVID-19 Subsides include specific questions for congregations to ask to determine risk assessment and readiness plans before beginning any moves to gather in person. We will continue to update them as more information becomes available. As always, we encourage you to reach out to UUA regional staff if you need support in your planning.

I continue to hold you, your community, and all of our people in my heart and in my prayers. I know adjusting to this new reality is heartbreaking. I also believe congregations who continue to lean into their mission and life-saving ministry will find ways to thrive in this time. Ministry is so deeply needed. As is moral leadership rooted in community care and in science. May we keep offering this to our communities.

Yours in love and gratitude,

Susan

What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? There are worse things than dying.

True. Unknowingly giving another person a disease that could kill them would be far worse than dying yourself for many of us.

I will happily find other ways to connect with my chosen religious community rather than gathering together in an enclosed space. Our local churches are doing wonderful virtual services and organizing of community service ☺️

kushiel1 · May 2020

Our Archdiocese has recently decided to slowly reopen (though with our county still not really open there's some issues) but have extended the dispensation from Communion through mid-August. They are telling those 65 and older or those with high risk to stay at home and will continue online services and zoom meetings...but a huge part of being Catholic is to be there for and receive Communion so this is interesting to say the least.

I'm not convinced that the Government can require that religious organizations stay shut down though (mine stopped holding services voluntarily around the same time as the shut downs began but before the official lockdown) so how that all goes in the future will be very interesting as everyone will need to find a balance without risking those who are high risk.

cmriverside · May 2020

.

spiriteagle99 · May 2020

I was hesitant about going to the nursery because this time of year it is usually really crowded. I'm not sure why they are open, since i don't think it qualifies as a life essential business, but it may be that since Lowes nursery is open, and landscapers are allowed to work, it was deemed essential. In any case, with so many at home, I've seen a lot of gardens getting planted the past couple of weeks, so I took the chance. I was right. It was crowded, and only about 2/3 had masks. Many of the employees did not have masks. It's an Amish business, so they may have felt they didn't have to obey the Governor's order. Fortunately, with large trolleys to carry plants, it was mostly safe.

TonyB0588 · May 2020

Theoldguy1 wrote: »

TonyB0588 wrote: »

corinasue1143 wrote: »

Just curious. Why were barber shops among the first to open here, among the last in other states? Did our governor need a haircut and your governor has a private barber?

Just curious. Why do people need barbershops? I cut my own hair for 5 years, and my wife continued for the next 32 years after that. She never stopped during the lockdown.

Perhaps because they don't have and don't want to develop that skill set or just don't want to do it? I mean do you change the oil in you vehicles, do your own taxes, lawn care, home repairs, etc.? I'm pretty sure there is some service you are paying for that others not specifically trained to perform that function are doing just like you are cutting your own hair.

I get your point but yes I do my own taxes and lawncare. Some home repairs, but i definitely don't attempt to do anything to the car.

TonyB0588 · May 2020

kshama2001 wrote: »

janejellyroll wrote: »

MikePfirrman wrote: »

I'm in AZ and just saw a projection yesterday (I think mainly because we're on a rapid upward trajectory and have so many older people) that we will have an increase in deaths of 5000%. I think we're at 500 deaths now and they are predicting well over 5000 more.

Yet masks aren't required and restaurants opened over the weekend. People were standing in line at haircutting places, nail salons and spas. Most all didn't have masks.

I'm at the point now where if people want to die, you can't help them. I feel sorry that they have minimized the risk, ignored the science and now can't wait to "be free". I just don't think what will happen to them is as fun as they anticipate.

We will continue to shelter in place for the most part, eat at home (and I'm fortunate enough to have a career where I don't step out of the house).

The only ones I feel sorry for is the first responders and family members of those that continue to put everyone at risk for their "civil liberties".

The thing that frustrates me about this is that *we all* have to live with these people who don't care if they live or die (or act as if they don't). I can be doing everything I can, but I still have to leave the house for groceries sometimes and when I do I'm encountering these people who are not taking any precautions. Nothing is going to protect me from that. That's what is frustrating. If these people could live in their own bubble, I wouldn't be as frustrated. They don't. We have to live alongside them.

Huh, here in my state of Massachusetts you are not allowed in stores without some sort of face covering. Municipalities made this an order some time ago and now it is state-wide.

https://www.mass.gov/news/wear-a-mask-in-public

...Governor Baker has issued an Order effective Wednesday, May 6 requiring face masks or cloth face coverings in public places where social distancing is not possible. This applies to both indoor and outdoor spaces....

I attempted to visit a shopping mall on Wednesday and there were security officers at every entrance. Not to prevent criminal activity, but to enforce COVID19 measures. So I was sent back to my car for the mask I didn't want to wear, then my temperature was checked, next I was directed to the hand sanitizer station. Quickly proceeded to the shop which sold the item I needed and was back out of there.

ExistingFish · May 2020

moonangel12 wrote: »

Our church is tentatively opening doors on June 7, but with major changes (and the disclaimer that it may or may not happen, and can change at any moment from week to week... they will still have virtual service as well). Hand sanitizer stations throughout, a scrubber system in the duct work (pastor is an HVAC guy), pews blocked off and families together, spaced out from everyone else. Bulletins and offering plate will be “self service” not handed out/passed. Trying to remember some of the other things in place. Only certain restrooms open, and children under 10 much be accompanied. No Sunday school or nursery for the foreseeable future (a room will be open for parents to take their children, but they have to stay with them). They were also big on hugging, and took pride in that (they wanted to make Heritage Huggers tshirts LOL). No hugging or shaking of hands, they are coming up with a new no-contact gesture which sounds silly, but there are some that truly need something if they can’t hug you... the last week I was at church before things shut down it was almost comical the awkwardness because people just didn’t know what to do!

Our church is also opening tentatively June 7th. Details are yet to come. Also the 24th of May and 31st of May they will hold outdoor services (that you have to sign up ahead of time).

They are proposing 5-6 services instead of the usual 1 service. People would need to sign up for which service they want to attend online, to make sure the services are not crowded.

People need to wear masks (IIRC) but not children under 10 (or was that what the Governor said?) I forget. Anyway, no/limited children's activities or nursery.

TonyB0588 · May 2020

ExistingFish wrote: »

moonangel12 wrote: »

Our church is tentatively opening doors on June 7, but with major changes (and the disclaimer that it may or may not happen, and can change at any moment from week to week... they will still have virtual service as well). Hand sanitizer stations throughout, a scrubber system in the duct work (pastor is an HVAC guy), pews blocked off and families together, spaced out from everyone else. Bulletins and offering plate will be “self service” not handed out/passed. Trying to remember some of the other things in place. Only certain restrooms open, and children under 10 much be accompanied. No Sunday school or nursery for the foreseeable future (a room will be open for parents to take their children, but they have to stay with them). They were also big on hugging, and took pride in that (they wanted to make Heritage Huggers tshirts LOL). No hugging or shaking of hands, they are coming up with a new no-contact gesture which sounds silly, but there are some that truly need something if they can’t hug you... the last week I was at church before things shut down it was almost comical the awkwardness because people just didn’t know what to do!

Our church is also opening tentatively June 7th. Details are yet to come. Also the 24th of May and 31st of May they will hold outdoor services (that you have to sign up ahead of time).

They are proposing 5-6 services instead of the usual 1 service. People would need to sign up for which service they want to attend online, to make sure the services are not crowded.

People need to wear masks (IIRC) but not children under 10 (or was that what the Governor said?) I forget. Anyway, no/limited children's activities or nursery.

We're going from 0 to 20 next week, so will still take a bit of working out. Might almost be better to stay on Zoom a bit longer. At least we can see hundreds of faces on the screen.

GaleHawkins · May 2020

The way things seem to be going in Sweden and how NYC seems to be past the initial peak I know the way some churches are wanting to start meeting again may be an OK risk in the eyes for some. Today I went down and bush hogged some of church property that does not get contracted out for weekly mowing like I have been doing for years since it is located in a swampy area with lots of snakes. My concern is if they have Vacation Bible School again this year so I keep the fields like the lawn with the 7' twin spindle Bush Hog behind the 3600 Ford tractor.

As for meeting in groups for any reason I am going to pass on doing that until the there are no positive tests for a while and no COVID-19 patients in any area hospitals. As far as I know no one in our house has had COVID-19 but since most people with it never know it I am trying to protect the wife because she does not need to deal with it personally yet she is working in the hospital that is treating COVID-19 and where they have daily drive through testing.

After I realized heaven is not tied to any church I see no reason to go against good reasoning to attend when I could be positive or others could be positive and never know it. People have different levels of needing to socialize and I get that. WI governor got over ruled over the lock down order I read and the bars were brimming with people. The churches and bars will yield more positive tests but that is OK I guess as long has they do not swamp the COVID-19 beds in the area but does not seem likely since most cases often peak after a 40 day period of high positive cases.

Now that they are doing a better job protecting the elderly is really cutting the number of COVID-19 deaths in our region.

I noticed WalMart is not requiring the customer were mask even though the governor has said wear them when out. They do have signs to wear masks but I expect the risk of getting hurt just is not worth it enforcing it to the company. I have been told locally even the law are not stopping even speeders. Well if someone was doing 100 MPH in a 35 MPH speed zone that might be a different story. Emotional and mental health in general is suffering over this virus. During the day the area traffic is heavy with fast food cars backed up into the streets. Hair and nail trimming opens up in 9 days.

Effectively we read the lock down is ending and the governors are under pressure to be thinking more about other issues than just health concerns. When stores, bars, gyms and restaurants are open 10-50 miles over in another state governors hate giving their sales taxes to another governor down the road.

earlnabby · May 2020

rheddmobile wrote: »

lemurcat2 wrote: »

Usually they have hand sanitizer with portapotties too, although I also think that seems weird.

We also have (most) parks open but playground sections closed off. Facilities are closed, but it seems not that hard just to plan so no bathroom is needed. There are tons of local parks here, so people likely aren't too far from their homes anyway.

What strange paradise do you live in where they have sanitizer with portapotties? I’ve used a lot more local portapotties than I care to at races, and I’m lucky to see toilet paper! I’ve learned to carry a wad of paper in my waist belt. Sometimes they have handwashing stations with foot pumps set up nearby, but not sanitizer.

Here in Wisconsin it is really, really rare to see a portapotty WITHOUT sanitizer. The few that don't have it are older, permanent ones. The rentals used at events have it in each one and often you will also have a washing station outside if it is a group of 4 or more.

earlnabby · May 2020

spiriteagle99 wrote: »

I was hesitant about going to the nursery because this time of year it is usually really crowded. I'm not sure why they are open, since i don't think it qualifies as a life essential business, but it may be that since Lowes nursery is open, and landscapers are allowed to work, it was deemed essential. In any case, with so many at home, I've seen a lot of gardens getting planted the past couple of weeks, so I took the chance. I was right. It was crowded, and only about 2/3 had masks. Many of the employees did not have masks. It's an Amish business, so they may have felt they didn't have to obey the Governor's order. Fortunately, with large trolleys to carry plants, it was mostly safe.

Garden centers here were allowed to open the last weekend in April, with restrictions. They were considered "essential" partly because of the amount of fruits/veggies people grow for food but I think the thinking also was that they contribute to positive mental health. The one I go to has 30 greenhouses of varying sizes. The smallest allow no more than 5 people (including employees) inside and the largest allowed up to 40 people.

The garden centers at places like Home Depot and Lowes never closed down because they are considered part of the store. They HAVE closed down the separate entrance so you go through the main entrance and exit so they can count customers. Business in the garden center has picked up so they do have a separate exit but it is exit only. Menards (a regional chain similar to the national ones) require masks and have security at the entrance. They also are not allowing anyone under 16 in, even with a parent, to reduce total number of people.

whoami67 · May 2020

kimny72 wrote: »

whoami67 wrote: »

kshama2001 wrote: »

Wow, just got an email from my church parent association suggesting no in person meetings until this time next year:

"As states around the country begin to loosen guidelines and take actions to reopen, even as COVID-19 cases and deaths continue to climb, we have received many questions from congregations about returning to in-person gatherings.

Over the past several weeks, the UUA has consulted with multiple public health officials in order to update the guidance we provided on March 12 recommending congregations stop gathering in person.

Based on advice from experts, we continue to recommend that congregations not gather in person. We also recommend that congregations begin planning for virtual operations for the next year (through May 2021).

[Rational included but it is long so I am using this tag:]
Take a moment to breathe. I know this is significant.

While there is much public conversation about "reopening," the reality is public health officials consistently predict a long trajectory for this pandemic. A majority of our congregational members, leaders, and staff members are in high-risk categories. Our care for the well-being and safety of our members and staff must be a priority in this pandemic.

This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors.

Additionally, religious gatherings are considered highly contagious events. The acts of singing, the familiarity of people across households, the multigenerational community of children, youth, adults, and seniors-the things that make our congregations so special-also create more risk for spreading the virus.

Given that so much uncertainty and risk remain, anticipating a year of virtual operations allows for more creative long-term planning, while still being flexible if conditions change significantly. We recognize that with time, and depending on the specific conditions and recommendations of local public health officials, small in-person groups of people and limited staff activities onsite may become possible while wearing masks, observing social distancing guidelines, and following diligent cleaning practices.

In making our recommendations, we are guided by science and our deepest held values. This pandemic teaches us that our actions directly impact the health and well-being of our neighbors and so it is imperative that we make choices that keep our congregations and larger community safer. As COVID-19 disproportionately impacts people with disabilities, Black people, Indigenous communities, Latinx people, the elderly, and essential workers, a majority of whom are women and women of color, religious communities have a moral responsibility to do all we can to reduce risks for those already at such high risk.

Public health officials are clear. There will need to be multiple weeks of reduction in infections, adequate testing, sufficient personal protective equipment available, contact tracing programs, and perhaps a vaccine before it will be safe for many of our congregations to fully gather in person again.

All this said, our ministries are essential services. I am moved by congregations who are increasing their services and generosity to the larger community during this pandemic. I am inspired by those who are keeping their "virtual" doors open. Many congregations have committed to keeping their services widely accessible and available to new people and visitors, while also creating more opportunities for virtual small groups to tend to the social, spiritual, emotional, and material needs of their members.

We hope that a vaccine or an effective treatment will be found soon to change this timeline. In the meantime, being able to plan the longer horizon of virtual services offers an opportunity to be creative in planning for life-giving, essential ministry across physical distance.

Our detailed UUA Guidelines on Gathering In Person as COVID-19 Subsides include specific questions for congregations to ask to determine risk assessment and readiness plans before beginning any moves to gather in person. We will continue to update them as more information becomes available. As always, we encourage you to reach out to UUA regional staff if you need support in your planning.

I continue to hold you, your community, and all of our people in my heart and in my prayers. I know adjusting to this new reality is heartbreaking. I also believe congregations who continue to lean into their mission and life-saving ministry will find ways to thrive in this time. Ministry is so deeply needed. As is moral leadership rooted in community care and in science. May we keep offering this to our communities.

Yours in love and gratitude,

Susan

What does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul? There are worse things than dying.

True. Unknowingly giving another person a disease that could kill them would be far worse than dying yourself for many of us.

I will happily find other ways to connect with my chosen religious community rather than gathering together in an enclosed space. Our local churches are doing wonderful virtual services and organizing of community service ☺️

And yet I can go to any number of grocery store which have no limit on the number of people inside and don't sanitize carts, the marijuana shop, the liquor store, a coffee shop where I can stand in a line and order inside and wait inside for my order, Walmart, Target, Home Depot (but must enter through one crowded inside door and pass lots of people to get to the outside garden center where its safer...the direct outside entry is closed), the dentist, the airport, a crowded airplane, a job at a factory, a crowded beach where I can sunbathe and smoke pot as long as I have a surfboard laying on the sand next to me...but can't do those things without a surfboard, a crowded sidewalk with the empty sidewalk next to it banned, I can jaywalk through heavy traffic at the order of the police, I can take my children to daycare while I go work at my essential job mingling with the general public and then pick up those children who have mingled with other children whose parents also work at essential jobs mingling with the general public, and I can even go to confession in my church hall after standing in a crowded line with others, but of course it makes total sense that a limited number of people can't gather for mass in an enormous sanctuary designed to seat thousands.

At this point, it isn't a religious or health issue. It's just an objection to anti-science and illogical hysteria.

hesn92 · May 2020

Well this is all very alarming. The stay at home order was lifted where I live yesterday, and my husband said restaurants were packed. Like a line of cars out of the parking lot and blocking the street. My coworker was talking about going shopping for some new sandals. There was a LOT more traffic out yesterday when I took my dog on a walk, like every intersection I had to stop and wait for cars where normallyi hardly ever have to stop. I’m still working from home though. My office set up a schedule where only some number of employees can be there at a time and since I can do my job well at home I was left off the schedule at least thru July 🤷🏼‍♀️ it’ll be rough when I finally have to go back lol

ExistingFish · May 2020

I went to the grocery store today, a shockingly small number of people were masked. In the past few weeks, it was like 80% of the people I saw, it's like 40% at best now. I don't want people to mess this up.

On the other hand, there are less than 5 active cases of CV in the county I shopped in, the likelihood that I'd run into one at the grocery store is slim.

lemurcat2 · May 2020

I went to a store again here, a Petsmart (mainly because I wanted to look at kittens to adopt, but my sister needed to buy stuff too). Again, about 80% of the people on the street and 100% of those in the store were wearing masks, but the people in the store weren't social distancing well (although the numbers were low as required, so I didn't feel like it was a big risk, just annoyed since I had to actively avoid others).

I feel like people in my general neighborhood and my sister's (where we were) are complying well, but not sure that's making a difference city wide and given country wide I feel kind of hopeless -- people will likely decide soon that it does not matter.

lemurcat2 · May 2020

whoami67 wrote: »

And yet I can go to any number of grocery store which have no limit on the number of people inside and don't sanitize carts

Oh? Many of us cannot, seems weird they have no limit of people per size of building, and my groceries are all sanitizing carts, as was my Home Depot.

the marijuana shop, the liquor store, a coffee shop where I can stand in a line and order inside and wait inside for my order, Walmart, Target, Home Depot (but must enter through one crowded inside door and pass lots of people to get to the outside garden center where its safer...the direct outside entry is closed)

Yes, what I see for these is lines that are properly distanced and limited people in stores (why the lines).

{quote}the dentist[/quote]

When needed.

the airport

Sure, but distanced, and it could be needed -- no crowded planes as from what I've heard middle rows are not being used and masks are.

a job at a factory

Yes, there are essential jobs, and they are trying to social distance. Last I heard the same folks demanding we open (like you) were the ones most focused on saying factory workers had to come to work or lose their unemployment.

[quote[a crowded beach where I can sunbathe and smoke pot as long as I have a surfboard laying on the sand next to me...[/quote]

Not beach weather here, or in most of the country (are you in CA?), but I don't think that's okay most places that are social distancing. That said, if big beaches, it's theoretically possible one could distance on the beach in a way one cannot if indoors for any lengthy period of time.

I can take my children to daycare while I go work at my essential job mingling with the general public and then pick up those children who have mingled with other children whose parents also work at essential jobs mingling with the general public, and I can even go to confession in my church hall after standing in a crowded line with others

Really? I can't do any of those things here (other than work at an essential job), all are not currently allowed (no confession due to the Archdiocese, not the state).

but of course it makes total sense that a limited number of people can't gather for mass in an enormous sanctuary designed to seat thousands.

This is a tiny percentage of religious settings and assumes people would agree to much smaller numbers than normal, and also ignores how communion itself poses an issue. The Archdiocese here plans to open churches for less than 10 at the end of the month (for private devotions) and plans to open for in person masses soon after, but I suspect the latter will be delayed some given realities. That said, the way they discuss it (like how my gov discusses it) makes me think it will be handled reasonably, and not as some weird political statement falsely claiming this was anti Christian or they were forced to shut down, thank goodness!

I read about the similar events during the Spanish flu, and one thing that stuck out was the difference in that here people with no symptoms can be spreaders. There they couldn't have streamed masses and such, so they discontinued access to churches during non mass hours, spread out masses more, sanitized between, and had ushers who monitored whether people who came in had symptoms.

moonangel12 · May 2020

My husband had his first confirmed case at work, in the office. They are already doing all they can to keep distance, cleaning every 2 hours, janitorial staff deep cleaned all the rooms she had been in, but I am sure the mental side of things will change now that the potential threat is a real threat. They are keeping personal logs of potential contacts (she had none, she did well to wear her mask and kept the 6ft distance), and the HR Mgr is keeping detailed records of any and all symptoms reported by employees and the eventual outcome. Thankfully she had flu like symptoms for a couple days but is already feeling better, the doctor said it’s a good sign that she should have a milder case overall.

mkculs13 · May 2020

WI is chaotic. My county has issued a health order to replace the Governor's order struck down by our Supreme Court. But only one other county has done the same (Milwaukee County and Dane County, the only counties with sizeable cities; other counties have spikes but aren't issuing orders). A friend in a county without an order has reported packed bars, restaurants, and stores. She even had someone tell her that "there is no more threat, b/c otherwise things wouldn't have opened." Such ignorance. Another friend was called a "pansy" for wearing a mask.

It is demoralizing to realize how stupid some people are.

I am hoping that with increased testing we get better data. I can get a free test any time now. I hope we find data to support reopening, b/c it's happening and I'd rather see it go well than otherwise. But to act without the data is so irresponsible.

Diatonic12 · May 2020

https://www.cnn.com/2020/05/16/us/alaska-coronavirus-grocer-toshua-supply-trnd/index.html

A grocer in a remote Alaskan region that's only accessible by boat or plane is going above and beyond to keep his small city fed during the coronavirus pandemic.

Coronavirus prep

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