Newspaper social media users sound off on lifting some COVID-19 restrictions
Along with South Carolina, Tennessee and Texas, Georgia is one of the earliest southern states allowing restrictions to be removed on some businesses during the coronavirus pandemic. The Times-Courier asked its Facebook readers how they felt about Gov. Brian Kemp making this decision to allow openings of barbershops, beauty salons, nail parlors, fitness facilities and restaurants, under a lengthy list of guidelines.
The request for comments was made realizing there are strong and heartfelt sentiments on both sides of the issue. Here are a few varied responses. More can be read on the Facebook page of the Times-Courier.
David Ford — “We have to get the economy going again. I support the governor. However, those of us who are vulnerable need to be responsible. If you catch this virus, it is not a death sentence. The mortality rate is low, perhaps even lower than is being reported. I think this virus was introduced into our country this past fall. Many people reported falling ill with a flu that took longer for them to shake. Corona? Perhaps. And I do believe the reports that this strain is very contagious are true. But I am not convinced that it is as deadly as originally thought. And if that is proven true, was the destruction of the economy necessary?”
Rebecca Reed — “I feel that it’s too soon. Unfortunately, we live in a tourist town that brings a lot of people here. Atlanta has so many cases, and if we open up places in Ellijay and Blue Ridge, these people will come. They may not even realize they’re sick. I think he should have kept things as they were until mid-May.”
Cathy Jo Brashear — “I went to a nail salon (Friday) in Georgia. They are doing a fantastic job keeping everyone safe (with restrictions such as) only a few people inside at a time; no one sits next to each other; everyone is wearing a mask; hand sanitizer everywhere; plexiglass between customers and nail techs; and extra procedures to maintain sterilization. I couldn’t be more proud, and am grateful for Gov. Kemp’s faith in the citizens of Georgia!”
Diane Whitaker Mewborn — “All I can say is when it starts hitting like wildfire next week, the shutdown will just last longer. Maybe you all will wish you had waited (then). Some businesses would be OK to open, but to have your hair and nails done? No.”
Kathleen Bailey — “I’m glad he made this decision. If people don’t want to go out, it’s their decision. We have to get back to some type of normalcy. No matter what decision he made, you can never please everyone.”
Andy McClure — “On this, he made the right call. Folks can still shelter in place if they choose to, businesses can still stay closed if they choose to. All he said was if you want to open, if you’re circumstances say you need to open, then go for it — just be careful.”
Lydia Sparks — “Support Gov. Kemp fully. Georgia is in great hands!”
Kyle Cochran — “For those who can stay home, people who are retired and those who can work at home, stay if you feel safer doing that. (There’s) nothing wrong with that. For the rest of us who have had jobs during this time and have to be out, use common sense — keep your distance from people and wash your hands. There is no cure, it’s here to stay. It is something we will have to learn to live with until there is a vaccine, (so) be smart, use common sense and stay safe.”
Helen Ani Dunn-Lummus — “(It’s the) worst decision ever. You can’t spend money if you’re dead. If you want to get the virus, fine, but you are bringing it to everyone else you come in contact with. The mortuaries are going to be busy here.”
Sandra Lloyd Gordon — “I understand how hard it is on the economy, but as a nurse, I see the number of cases climbing. Our long-term care and assisted-living communities may remain on lockdown and continue doing everything we can to prevent this virus from entering our facilities, but our risk will no doubt be exponentially higher.”
Barbara Steiner Jonason — “I think the way we do everything is going to be changed from here on out until a vaccine is developed. People at risk are at risk for everything that is contagious, and should always take precautions. I have autoimmune disorders (and) I am constantly washing and cleaning. Now I will be more diligent. (Let’s be) open for business, but be more mindful.”