Read on Twitter
Georgia Governor tells some businesses to reopen -- but response is limited on Day 1.
By far, Hair Salons appeared to embrace the permission more than others and many had customers lining up. But not all chose to swing wide the front doors.
Who didn't re-open? Both major franchise gyms and smaller private gyms clearly didn't answer Gov. Brian Kemp's call to rejuvenate the economy despite Coronavirus risks. Planet Fitness advised clients it was still evaluating safety and remaining closed.
A surprising number of those who chose to open for haircuts or nail treatments in Georgia Friday involved minority business owners and employees more likely to be living paycheck to paycheck.
Many begged not to be identified. There is fear they will face criticism for their decision to re-open. They fear for themselves, for neighboring businesses and their clients.
Every business that did open appeared to be trying its best to have at least some protective gear. Face masks, gloves and aprons were widely seen even though each of these businesses could not maintain 6 feet or more distance from their clients.
The protective gear is not adequate. The owners and employees clearly know the risks. They're desperate and some will say that. Others just lock the door in your face and refuse to speak. There are no winners...but on day 1 there are no known losers, either.
My tour of Georgia shopping malls and storefronts was limited to the northern suburbs...places like Dunwoody, Sandy Springs and Roswell. While there is fear about potential consequences, there is also a hope that, like Dunwoody's motto: Everything Will Be OK.
Because the "tour" ended before noon, there is nothing to report on whether that essential business of massage parlors seized the opportunity to re-open. Mrs. Clancy insists I will not be providing updates later tonight. ;-)
