'Too Soon Arizona' Campaign Opposes Businesses Reopening Early

ACROSS ARIZONA—As many Arizona restaurants Monday welcomed patrons to their establishments for the first time in two months, many others opted to remain closed. As state health officials continue reporting new coronavirus cases and deaths, these business owners said they've decided to play it safe by not returning to business as usual.

"We are united in our decision to not reopen our dining rooms and shops to the public at this time. It’s just too soon," business owners who have joined the "Too Soon Arizona" campaign said. "Like the rest of you, we desperately want life to go back to normal. But things are not normal."

The "Too Soon Arizona” campaign is made up of restaurateurs, chefs, bar owners as well as service providers who believe that lifting the state's stay-at-home order will only cause an acceleration in cases and unnecessary deaths.

"We feel proceeding incautiously with the reopening of businesses will worsen human suffering in our communities and prolong the negative impact this pandemic is having on small businesses & the economy," they said.

As of Tuesday, the Arizona Department of Health Services reported 356 new coronavirus cases, bringing the total to 11,736. There were also 20 additional deaths, bringing that total number to 562.

More than 150 Arizona businesses have joined the campaign to stay closed. Some of those businesses include 5 Points Market & Restaurant in Tucson, AZ Insurance Team in Tempe, The Breadfruit & Rum Bar in Phoenix, Talking Irons Coffee Saloon in Pearce and Spanky's Little Rascals in Glendale. A complete list of businesses that have joined "Too Soon Arizona" can be found on the campaign's website.

"We dream of the day when it is safe to open our doors & reconnect with our communities, and we’ll all do our part to make it happen," these "Too Soon Arizona" business owner said.

Don't miss local and statewide news about coronavirus developments and precautions. Sign up for Patch alerts and daily newsletters. Also, for updated coverage on national news surrounding coronavirus, sign up for the Patch Across America daily newsletter.