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Georgians react with uneasiness as beaches reopen

Some of the state’s most popular beaches will be allowed to reopen Friday night due to Gov. Brian Kemp’s statewide order superseding that of some city-level shelter-in-place mandates
By Kiersten Willis
April 4, 2020

Gov. Brian Kemp's statewide shelter-in-place order has removed some stricter conditions previously in place in Georgia cities — that includes the closure of beaches.

Friday night saw beaches around the state reopen after Kemp's order went into effect at 6 p.m.

» RELATED: Tybee Island mayor blasts governor's order that reopened beaches

Tybee Island Mayor Shirley Sessions said in a statement that she is “devastated” by the order and it seems Georgians are feeling similarly.

Some reacted with upset in their tweets.

» RELATED: Shelter in place order: What it means for you and local businesses

Others, including state Sen. Sally Harrell, simply felt confusion and disbelief.

At least one person remarking on the change felt reopening beaches is a good call.

Still, some felt the control was up to individuals.

About the Author

Kiersten Willis is a native advertising specialist at the AJC.

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