In which I feel like a thawing cavewoman squinting into the light

Also TGIF!

I realize that COVID is over (““) and the world has moved on. However, it’s been comforting to live in a land of like-minded people who tend to wear masks or at least have one visible as a virtue-signaling measure that nods to social responsibility. Or at least that’s what the Los Angeles bubble usually feels like, and I’m down for it.

But this week I attended an in-person corporate event and I was quite literally the only person wearing a mask. There were no masks among hotel staffers, event staffers, or guests. None even slung onto a wrist or under a chin as a gesture. In L.A.! Huh!

This is more an observation than a judgment, but I found it startling. (And after my household has been stricken with the stomach flu not once but twice in recent weeks, I’m reminded there are plenty of inflictions I’d prefer to avoid if I can — so I’d wager I’ll mask indefinitely at events, grocery stores, and on a plane or bus.)

The event was packed, the hosts seemed pleased, and the crowd convivial. Overall, it’s exciting snd relieving to see events back in full swing — if admittedly a little unfamiliar at this stage.

In your corners of the country (or world), how are you feeling about masking at events right now?

Open Press Opportunities

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