As I'm going to "press," I'm struggling to interpret the latest (Friday, Oct. 16, 2020) announcement by Gov, Newsom — Guidance for Private Gatherings.

On top of the existing requirements of six feet of social distancing, the wearing of masks and holding activities outdoors—a new criteria has been added, limitations on Private Gatherings.

The major change is: "Gatherings that include more than 3 households are prohibited."

My confusion is—what does Private mean? Is a meeting that I organize any different from a meeting organized by, let's say the YMCA?

Let's first define private. According to Merriam-Webster: Private - intended for or restricted to the use of a particular person, group, or class.

Anyone can join the YMCA BUT you have to be a member to participate. Is the YMCA private? Are activities restricted to 3 households on top of the previous regulations?

I have a sing a-long group. It is open to the public BUT you probably won't participate about it unless you know when and where we are meeting. Is my sing a-long group private? Are our activities restricted to 3 households on top of the previous regulations?

I don't know the answer. So, I went to the covid19.ca.gov web page and called the COVID-19 hotline: 833-422-4255. After pressing several buttons, I reached a person, and when

I asked my question, she asked what state and county I was in — so she could look it up. If she wasn't familiar with this Guidance, it seem clear that she wouldn't be able to help.

This is even more confusing since the YMCA has been saying that restrictions may be loosened if we improve our tier rating.

I asked some members of my sing a-long group and received mixed responses. Some felt that we should be cautious and stop. Others felt that we were doing a great job already and this wouldn't apply.

Interestingly, these new regs were put out in light of the approaching Thanksgiving holiday when families typically get together. As Americans are inventive at following the letter of the law rather than the spirit of it, I've already heard of families planning to play musical homes— meeting up to three families in one yard, then rotating some of the families to a second yard.

And, of course, we have Halloween coming. Will kids not go? Will homes not give out candies? Or will some just leave the candy outside for a take what you want table? Will people rig a plastic pipe where they can slide mini candy through? Or pass out the candy using tongs or grabbers?

I'm trying to figure this out. Welcome to the new normal.

Any suggestions?

Thanks,
Al