For a time, West Virginia held the distinction of being the last state to report a coronavirus case. But once the first resident tested positive, Governor Jim Justice closed all restaurants, bars and casinos.
“We knew it was coming,” Justice said, “but we were prepared. We should be concerned, but we should not panic and live our lives the best we can.”
Officials at the Greenbrier resort in Sulphur Springs, owned by Justice family members, suspended operations on March 19, closing its casino, hotel, 20 restaurants, six golf courses and 36 retail outlets.
Officials issued a statement saying, “The health and safety of our guests and team members is our top priority, and this move is critical to ensure the well-being of all involved. We appreciate the continued loyalty and understanding of our valued guests, and we look forward to welcoming them back when our doors reopen soon. Our thoughts and prayers are with all of those impacted by Covid-19.”
White Sulphur Springs Mayor Bruce Bowling said the closure of the Greenbrier is “worrisome, that’s the main employer in our county, but what are you going to do? It’s what everyone else is doing, and it had to be done.”
