The Need to Reopen Beaches, Parks and Golf Courses

Yesterday I took exception with some aspects of Governor Murphy’s handling of the coronavirus in the state and I want to expand on that.

First, what I’m doing is likely no different than what the governor and I have probably done while watching our favorite teams play and that is second-guess the coach.  Clearly he has tons of information and experts at his disposal and is in a much better position than yours truly when it comes to the reopening of New Jersey.  However that does not mean you and I can’t question certain decisions which is what I continue to do.

Let’s start with the obvious.  The stay-at-home order has benefited from the fact that we have had largely miserable weather since the start of spring and most days you were fine being indoors.  That is going to change at some point and when it does people are going to want to get outside.

With that said it’s time to reopen parks, beaches and boardwalks with certain restrictions such as you must wear a mask and do your best to maintain social distancing.  I have spoken with several doctors who have told me that the spread is very much different when we are outside in the fresh air and walking, riding a bike or jogging can be done with little contact.

It’s also good for our mental health which is something that can’t be overlooked.

Same for golf courses. There is no reason why they can’t open with whatever restrictions need to be done for safety reasons.  This can’t be that hard!

One of my other problems with the governor is that there are certain businesses that could easily open while maintaining safety and topping that list would be auto dealerships.  There is no reason why they can’t be open as there is little contact between customers and employees and with common sense safeguards can be put in place.

Let’s be honest, you will have less congestion in a dealership then in most of the so-called essential businesses that are now open.

And the bottom line with any business that is or does reopen is that those who don’t feel comfortable don’t have to shop there.  Just saying we are weeks away from reopening is not good enough.

I’m not looking to flip the switch one day but rather taking a measured approach and open certain businesses that make sense even if you have to place some restrictions on them.

For example, find a way in which I can get a haircut from a professional who does that for a living.

Stay healthy my friends!