More Reopening in a Pandemic

GREENFIELD - As of Monday October 5, Massachusetts has entered Step 2 of Phase 3 for reopening during the Covid-19 pandemic. Low risk communities such as Greenfield and others across the state will be able to ease up on restrictions put in place for businesses and events. For businesses these changes allow for gyms, outdoor performance venues, libraries, indoor and outdoor recreation businesses, and driving schools, to reopen at fifty percent capacity. Also, for outdoor gatherings where more than fifty attendees are anticipated, the leader of the event must provide notice to the Health Department one week before the event is scheduled, or as soon as possible where a notice of that sort is not practicable. In an interview with a Greenfield native and GHS student, Ruari Maloney, commented on the recent loosening of restrictions in his community; “I think it's a good thing seeing businesses able to reopen to more people and it will be pretty cool to watch as places look less depressing as we get further into the year”. Maloney also commented on what this will look like for the community; “ You know, this sort of soft reopening will show if Greenfield is serious, capable, and eventually ready for a full reopening. I just want life to get back to more normalish circumstances as they can be after a pandemic”. Maloney’s thoughts and ideas can only be seen as a reflection to that of most other high school students and citizens of Greenfield. When announcing this new protocol, Mayor Roxanne Wedegartner stated that the town and Health Department will carefully follow new guidelines, and that she urges everyone to remain cautious to stop the spread of the Coronavirus. Things in Greenfield will be getting more “normal” as normal can get during a pandemic, as long as we continue safe practices in preventing Covid-19.