Wolf reopens some of state's outdoor activities
Golf is back.
So are a few other outdoor activities.
Gov. Tom Wolf announced Monday that Pennsylvania golf courses, marinas, guided fishing trips and private campgrounds are permitted to reopen Friday.
“This is super good news,” said Tiffany Aubrey, manager of Aubrey's Dubbs Dred Golf Course in Center Township. “We were expected to have to wait until May 8, but we'll be glad to go a week earlier.”
Sarah Zediker, owner of Hiland Golf Course in Summit Township, echoed those sentiments.
“We have to adhere to the state guidelines, and we're going to gladly do that and beyond,” Zediker said. “We're down 20 to 25 percent in revenue so far this year. We are ready to go.”
Golf courses throughout the county have been maintained. They just haven't had any golfers.
“We miss the people. It's been so empty here,” Zediker said. “I can't wait to see everybody again. My birthday is April 30. Now I'll really be celebrating.
“We're allowed one person to a cart. We will limit the number of people we have in the clubhouse. We're going to constantly wash down the carts, the steering wheels, cup holders, the backs of the cart where people put their golf bags.”
She added that the number of people standing around a tee box will be limited.
“Probably no more than four,” Zediker said. “We're spreading people out.”
Golfers will not be permitted to touch the flagsticks on the holes. That is one of the state's guidelines.
Aubrey said she was surprised cart use is being permitted at all.
“I figured golfers would be walking for a while. That (cart permission) is a pleasant surprise,” she said.
“We've been closed since November. As a business, we're feeling it ... It hurts,” Aubrey added.
Andrea Hirth, whose fiance owns Smith Grove Campground in Butler, said people have been checking on their cabins. She expects campers to come back slowly.
“Our contractors haven't been able to work, so a lot of things haven't been getting done,” Hirth said. “Hopefully, the weekenders will pick up, but I think it's going to be gradual.”
State park campgrounds will remain closed through at least May 14.
A bill introduced by state Rep. Marci Mustello, R-11th, allowing the state's animal grooming services to reopen passed the House Agriculture and Rural Affairs Committee. The bill now moves to the full House for consideration.
