Coronavirus: Michigan city arranges daily outdoor socializing sessions - from a distance

MILAN, Mich. — Residents in a Michigan city are finding a way to battle cabin fever as they come to grips with the state’s stay-at-home order because of the coronavirus.

Every day at 7 p.m., people in Milan go outside to check on their neighbors, regardless of weather conditions, MLive reported.

Milan Moments allows residents to congregate -- at a distance -- as they comply with Gov. Gretchen Whitmer’s order that took effect Tuesday. The residents stay in their yards during the social period, Milan Mayor Dominic Hamden told MLive.

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“This is a way for people to comply with the order, and at the same time, get some form of social interaction,” Hamden told the website. “This is an opportunity for all of us to come out and socialize with each other for a few seconds and check on everybody.”

Milan Moments was started by resident Erin Held, and the event has grown to include several neighborhoods. Milan resident Dennis Albers created a wearable “social distancing guideline” to help him comply with the six-foot contact order, MLive reported.

“There is something comforting about just being able to wave hello from across the street or even talk for a few minutes,” Jill Tewsley told the website. “Human connection is important, especially during times like these.

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“But the connection doesn't end there. People are posting about it on social media and sharing their Milan Moments selfies and stories.”

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“Milan has been doing a pretty good job with the stay-home order, so this is a great opportunity for us to socialize from a safe distance,” Angela Thomas told MLive. “We have to be very mindful of our mental health at this time, and this is just another way to stay sane.”

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