Jacksonville residents quickly change lifestyles to conquer coronavirus

Eye on Jacksonville has been limiting posts because the nature of the worldwide health crisis makes most other news, especially local news, pale by comparison.

But we wanted to give a quick review of events to date.

Officials at the state and local levels, meanwhile, have been addressing the problem of coronavirus, including the recommendations by health officials to avoid crowds.

In a state of 20 million people, there have been about 1,000 cases and 10 deaths. But tactics to cope with the problem have come swiftly.

Gov. Ron DeSantis issued an executive order closing bars and nightclubs and requiring restaurants to no more than 50 percent of their capacity. He also ordered restaurants to close at 5 p.m. and space customers 6 feet apart. The restrictions were for a period of 30 days.

Mayor Lenny Curry issued an order limiting local restaurants to no more than 50 people.

It all became moot when the governor banned eating on premises in restaurants.

But Jacksonville restaurants quickly adapted. Those without drive-through lanes began offering takeout, delivered to you at the door. Others began home delivery options.

Many people are avoiding groceries and delivery options are being utilized.

Gyms, bars and other gathering places are shut down.

In most neighborhoods, people began walking the streets, for exercise and to avoid being shut inside.

A test site was set up in the sports complex downtown.

Friends and family began offering help to run errands or provide other aid.

It all reflects the amazing ability of Americans to adapt and help each other in times of need.

Lloyd was born in Jacksonville. Graduated from the University of North Florida. He spent nearly 50 years of his life in the newspaper business …beginning as a copy boy and retiring as editorial page editor for Florida Times Union. He has also been published in a number of national newspapers and magazines, as well as Internet sites. Married with children. Military Vet. Retired. Man of few words but the words are researched well, deeply considered and thoughtfully written.

Lloyd Brown

Lloyd was born in Jacksonville. Graduated from the University of North Florida. He spent nearly 50 years of his life in the newspaper business …beginning as a copy boy and retiring as editorial page editor for Florida Times Union. He has also been published in a number of national newspapers and magazines, as well as Internet sites. Married with children. Military Vet. Retired. Man of few words but the words are researched well, deeply considered and thoughtfully written.

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