Lynn Haven mayor leads efforts to make masks for seniors, others

News Herald - 4/7/2020

Apr. 7--------

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LYNN HAVEN -- If there was ever a moment to be vigilant, this is the moment. And, wielding 9 by 12-inch pieces of fabric, Mayor Margo Anderson is keenly spearheading a community effort to help slow the spread of the coronavirus in Lynn Haven.

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"While wearing a mask is not a substitute for social distancing, and for just staying at home as much as possible, I do believe the masks can make a difference," Anderson said in a text message Monday afternoon.

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This past weekend the Centers for Disease Control walked back its opinion on the mass-wearing of masks, now making it a recommendation to be worn by everyone, particularly the elderly and when in the public. The recommendation came with a do-it-yourself video and instructions, and a reminder that the masks can be effective if they are worn in conjunction with practicing social distancing rules, such as keeping a six-foot distance from others.

On Friday night, Anderson posted a photo of a handful of masks she made for local seniors and those with compromised immune systems. As of noon Monday, the post garnered 330 reactions and 21 shares.

"Many people started posting patterns, ideas, and offering their support, and now we have a small cottage industry evolving," Anderson said in the text. She has posted a pattern with instructions on her Facebook page.

According to a 2019 population estimate found at Census.gov, about 15% of Lynn Haven's residents are 65 years old or older. The CDC has warned that COVID-19 can be more serious for the elderly due to weakened immunity. Of Bay County's 24 confirmed positive cases, eight have been from a person who is 55 years of age and older. The single death from the disease came this past weekend -- the victim was 93 years old.

"Our goal is to sew a mask for every senior citizen and those who are at high risk who are diabetic, have heart disease, or breathing issues," Anderson said. "But the masks are definitely for anyone who wishes to take one from the box."

A box for masks and one for materials, is located at Victoria's Last Bite, 827 Florida Ave. The eatery -- closed until at least May 1 due to mandates -- is owned by Lynn Haven Commissioner Judy Tinder.

"We have a lot of people that are bored to death at home. It's a great way for them to use up that time for good," Tinder said. "Since masks are next to impossible to buy, its wonderful that we have people out there that have sewing talents -- this way, we can help everybody."

By the time the boxes went out Sunday evening, five cars were lined up. While it is unclear how many masks have been deposited since then, "they're putting them in and pulling them out," Tinder said, suggesting there is a great need, and that the support as been constant.

The masks should be placed in sandwich bags with one mask per bag and washed before using, and thereafter each time when used. People who do not sew may support the effort by depositing materials for masks to be made at the same location.

Mayor Anderson reminds residents to pay attention to recommendations, and, to have faith.

"Try not to worry," Anderson said.

"Doctors tell us that we can fight off disease at our optimal level when we get plenty of rest, eat healthy foods, stop smoking, and spend time in prayer or mediation," she added. "But the most important message I have is for everyone to hold on to their faith and to pray. The same God who wrapped his protective arms around us on Oct. 10, 2018, as the area was devastated by a category 5 hurricane is with us now, and will see us through."

Anderson said she expects more pick-up, drop-off locations will become available as the operation grows.

Find the patterns and instructions for masks on Mayor Margo Anderson's social media page, Margo Deal Anderson, on Facebook.

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