Michael Greenan of Lafayette looks through a book while shopping at Von's Shops, Monday, May 4, 2020 in West Lafayette. (Photo: Nikos Frazier | Journal & Courier)
Michael Greenan of Lafayette looks through a book while shopping at Von's Shops, Monday, May 4, 2020 in West Lafayette. (Photo: Nikos Frazier | Journal & Courier)
LAFAYETTE — Face masks. Necessary coronavirus pandemic attire or just a suggestion?

“We always try to wear a mask when we’re out in a closed area," Emily Stillman said as she and Thomas Ilyevsky — both of whom are in the mid-20s — enjoyed a walk Thursday afternoon in downtown Lafayette without their masks.

“But when we go out and walk, we always try to cross the street before we see anybody. We always try to avoid people as we’re out walking," Stillman said. “Anytime we go to the grocery store, we’ll have a mask on."

Technically, the Back on Track Indiana plan only recommends face masks for people when social distancing is difficult, such as in grocery stores, although some businesses require customers to don face masks in order to enter the store.

Starting June 14, the masks for the public are optional, according to the governor's five-phase plan.
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