Anonymous wrote:While visiting the Meadowlark Park near Wolftrap today I was quite annoyed a seeing people without masks. The majority of families were wearing masks - down to the littlest kid. I was appalled at a family (3 adults and 3 children), none of them wearing masks and congregating on one of the most visited gazebos at the park. They had all their belongings spread out on a very large bench and they were there for a long while. So inconsiderate! Many families take their children to that particular place because of the views (it is at the highest point) and because the kids can run down afterwards.
Many families are still quarantining - not socializing with other people but going out for a breather. We go to these parks to have a socially distanced time where the kids can run around. The park is large enough that it can be done. We just avoid the most frequented places.
I am trying to protect my family and I won't avoid these places because we can be away from people. What people need to realize is that this is a place for everyone. We are in a pandemic. If you choose to be selfish and not wear a mask, that is your choice. Just don't do it where many families want to take their children.
Seriously. And for those that want to say, "if you don't like it, stay home." How dare you? You then might be the problem. You can't expect things to improve if that is your attitude.
They were outside in a park, enjoying time with each, and socially distanced from others. If you weren't able to go to a part of the park because they were there, you can move on to another area. It's a fair-sized park, there's room for many socially distanced visitors.
I'm a frequent visitor of Meadowlark Gardens. I've experienced what you did many times. To maintain social distancing, I may be able to go to some areas of the park and not others.
Going back to your observations: public parks are places for everyone. We are in a pandemic. If it's too uncomfortable for you to visit a park where law abiding citizens are behaving appropriately, maybe that's not the place for you.