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JUNE 2020 • VOL. 12 — NO. 6
Brookhaven Reporter WORTH KNOWING
Women veterans find online home P18
HEAD FOR THE HILLS PAGES 21-27
CELEBRATING THE CLASS OF 2020 PAGE 14
Signs of the pandemic times City Hall begins reopening, requires mask-wearing
AROUND TOWN
BY BOB PEPALIS
On pandemic politeness P20 ROBIN’S NEST
A hike down memory lane
PHIL MOSIER
“Brookhaven Strong” yard signs were available for purchase at the HOBNOB Neighborhood Tavern in Town Brookhaven on Memorial Day weekend. Originated by city leaders as a pandemic motto, the phrase has been adopted by the Brookhaven Chamber of Commerce for use on the yard signs and T-shirts. But will the phrase stand the test of time? For an expert’s opinion, see the Commentary on p. 16-17 ►
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Restaurants seek elbow room for distanced dining BY JOHN RUCH johnruch@reporternewspapers.net
From picnic tables in parking lots to dining on strips of shopping center landscaping, restaurants returning after pandemic shutdowns are looking for room to spread out for social distancing. And no one knows how long that will last. Or how long it can last. Can restaurants survive with the lower capacity as they spread tables apart until the pandemic is
contained or a vaccine is found? How long will neighbors and city inspectors have patience for seating snatched from parking spaces and sidewalks? Experts and local restaurateurs say the pandemic could push the industry to a trend of building in more outdoor dining and drive-thrus. “As a longer-term trend, I think ‘alfresco’ and outdoor seating has always been a See RESTAURANT on page 31
City Hall and a few city park facilities will reopen on June 1 as part of a phased return from coronavirus pandemic closures. City Hall closed March 14 when an employee who doesn’t work with the public was diagnosed with COVID-19. City officials previously said City Hall would reopen after 14 consecutive days of stable or declining COVID-19 cases in Georgia or DeKalb County. “While not a continual decline, the cases have been on a general decline over that period of time,” said city spokesperson Burke Brennan. “However, the decline in cases has not been our only criteria in making the decision. Certainly, the recent guidance from the state and federal government factors in, as well as the desires and expectations of the community.” Employees at City Hall and Parks and Recreation workers returned to their offices and on-site work spaces on May 26 to get ready for the public. The Brookhaven Police Department will remain closed to the public for now, as will the municipal court. The court reopening will be determined by the state court system. Only small groups will be permitted at See CITY on page 30
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