by Sarah Craighead Dedmon

Many Downeast businesses have been able to operate — in a modified fashion — since coronavirus was first detected in Maine on March 12. Others, including barbershops and hair salons, were only able to reopen their doors on May 1. Now that Governor Janet Mills has announced her “Rural Reopening” plan, all retail stores in 12 rural counties can open their doors to foot traffic this week, and next week restaurants will be able to welcome customers, too. In all cases, safety protocols apply.