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Will Greensboro bars and restaurants close over coronavirus concerns?

Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan explains it could happen, but it depends on what actions the state takes. Here's why.

GREENSBORO, N.C. — There are still a lot of questions surrounding the coronavirus and its impact on the Triad. 

There are currently no confirmed cases in Guilford County, but Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan said her office is prepared in case it happens. 

"I think people need to be realistic. It is just a matter of time. People should not panic," Vaughan said.

She is urging people to stay home and practice social distancing.

"We know that people need to make a living, but we also know people need to be healthy," Vaughan stated.

The CDC put out new recommendations Sunday night for people to avoid gatherings of 50 people or more. Currently, Governor Roy Cooper's order says groups of 100 or more.

Mayor Vaughan said we must follow the governor's recommendation because North Carolina is a Dillon's Rule state. That means cities must follow what the state does, and can't approve actions more stringent than the state. 

She said she talked with the governor's office Sunday night and expects he will come out with new regulations soon, and that could include closing restaurants and bars. 

As of this time, restaurants and bars are still open in the state and in Greensboro. 

She said we will certainly not close grocery stores, and she highly encourages people to not hoard items.

"It is going to have a devastating impact," Vaughan said. 

Governor Cooper sent a letter to the Small Business Administration, asking for economic relief for small businesses in North Carolina. Vaughan hopes it will be approved, but doesn't know what kind of relief it will entail or how long it could take to get financial relief. 

She is asking the community to come together and help one another during this crisis. 

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