Business owners face tough decisions on reopening after governor’s order

  • Dee Branson of Creative Styles Hair Salon is among those who felt compelled to reopen for business due to hardships related to the COVID-19 closure. (Photo/Stephanie Hill)
    Dee Branson of Creative Styles Hair Salon is among those who felt compelled to reopen for business due to hardships related to the COVID-19 closure. (Photo/Stephanie Hill)
  • Diners gather at patio seating at the Cowboys & Angels Restaurant in Helen on Tuesday evening. (Photo/Wayne Hardy)
    Diners gather at patio seating at the Cowboys & Angels Restaurant in Helen on Tuesday evening. (Photo/Wayne Hardy)
  • Among the new precautions being taken at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Helen are screen guards to place a barrier between staff and guests. The hotel is set to reopen May 1, though it could be a couple of weeks before its pool reopens. (Submitted photo)
    Among the new precautions being taken at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites in Helen are screen guards to place a barrier between staff and guests. The hotel is set to reopen May 1, though it could be a couple of weeks before its pool reopens. (Submitted photo)

    Reopen – or not?

    That is the question local business owners have considered since last week’s announcement by Gov. Brian Kemp that he would be easing restrictions on certain businesses forced to closed…