By Mike McGann, Editor, The Times @mmcgannpa
Gov. Tom Wolf is slowly easing restriction prompted by the COVID-19 pendemic, announcing Monday a limited reopening of outdoor recreational activities including golf, marinas, guided fishing trips and privately owned camp grounds, as the latest new case numbers ticked up slightly.
As of May 1, the recreational facilities may reopen, but are required to follow updated life-sustaining business guidance and FAQ issued by the Wolf Administration to include specifics for how these outdoor recreational industries can resume activities while prioritizing public health and safety. Campgrounds in state parks will remain closed through Thursday, May 14.
“Pennsylvanians have remained resilient throughout this COVID-19 crisis, and as we successfully continue to flatten the curve to protect our physical health, it is critical that we also focus on our physical and mental health during these extraordinary times. As the weather warms and daylight lengthens, enjoying time outdoors is an important way to manage stress,” Wolf said. “As we start to take measured, limited steps to reopen our commonwealth, reopening these industries will help to rebuild our economy and strengthen our mental health.”
Meanwhile, the state Department of Health (DOH), reported 1,214 new positive cases, bringing the statewide total to 43,264. DOH reports a total of 1,716 deaths in the commonwealth due to COVID-19.
“As we see the number of new COVID-19 cases continuously change across the state that does not mean we can stop practicing social distancing,” Sec. of Health Dr. Rachel Levine said. “We must continue to stay home to protect ourselves, our families and our community. If you must go out, please make as few trips as possible and wear a mask to protect not only yourself, but others. We need all Pennsylvanians to continue to heed these efforts to protect our vulnerable Pennsylvanians, our health care workers and frontline responders.”
In Chester County, the Health Department reports 38 new cases, up slightly from the day before when 34 new cases were reported.
Elsewhere in state government, officials are making a special outreach to the state’s Latino community to make sure it is aware of the needed safety precautions to stay safe during the pandemic. The Governor’s Advisory Commission on Latino Affairs has been active in trying to spread the message.
“It is absolutely critical that all Pennsylvanians, including those in the Latino community across the commonwealth – from Philly to Erie – follow Governor Wolf and Secretary of Health Dr. Rachel Levine’s recommendations to the letter so that we can prevent the spread of this disease, keep our families safe and together, and get back to our way of life,” said GACLA Executive Director Luz Colon.
Pennsylvania’s Latino community plays a vital role in supporting critical industries such as manufacturing, agriculture, restaurants and health care, along with owning and working in small businesses. Now, more than ever, it is critical that every Latino in every community closely follows all safety measures to protect against the virus to save lives and livelihoods.
