Hello everyone,
As the discussion gets underway on a path forward in reopening Delaware and the nation, a lot of people who are tired of being cooped up want to “flip the switch.”
In Michigan we saw the spectacle of demonstrators blocking streets, demanding an end to stay at home orders while scoffing at social distancing and other measures.
In Delaware, a couple of Facebook groups have emerged that are calling for the state of emergency to end in early May, with some vowing a march in Dover.
Their posts lack specific ideas, but instead air grievances and spout stats on the low percentage of people who have contracted the virus, which some see as a form of the common cold or flu.
The frustration is understandable. Staying at home, especially when you are out of a job, is scary.
The frustrations will rise further as the governors of Maryland, New York and Pennsylvania ordered that shoppers and employees wear face masks.
So far, Delaware Gov. John Carney has stopped short of issuing a mask order, although it may only be a matter of time.
Many business people who strongly identify with the switch flippers, realize the process won’t be automatic.
While a Wawa or a Walmart can shake off a coronavirus case or two, an outbreak among employees at an independently owned business will be fatal.
And simply opening businesses does not mean customers will automatically show up. Many will continue to limit their activities.
Others, facing income loss won’t have the money to spend. For many industries, it will be a slow slog, even as we learn more about the virus and testing becomes more widespread.
It is time to have a conversation or even a spirited debate, but let’s deal with facts, not emotions, conspiracy theories and long-standing grievances. – Doug Rainey, chief content officer.
