South Carolina will reopen attractions ahead of Memorial Day

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COLUMBIA - On Wednesday, South Carolina Gov. Henry McMaster announced he is allowing the reopening Friday of mini golf courses, go-kart tracks, museums and amusement parks just in time for the Memorial Day weekend.

Beaches were packed last weekend, and authorities blamed large crowds on few things other than the beaches being open.

Nearly everything in South Carolina will soon be reopened - though most with reduced capacity. After Wednesday's announcement about attractions, only schools, concerts and sporting events with spectators remain shut down.

Along with the fun businesses, McMaster said Wednesday that youth and adult sports leagues can start practicing again May 30 with games restarting June 15.

Attractions will have to stay below 50% of capacity and take steps like sanitizing putters, balls, lap bars on roller coasters and seat belts on go-karts after each use.

The guidelines posted by the state also cover who is responsible for what in a number of scenarios, including weddings.

"Health checks are the responsibility of the bride, groom or their representative and should be conducted prior to allowing guests entrance into the wedding," the state guidelines read.

As of Wednesday, there have been 9,175 confirmed cases of the coronavirus in South Carolina and 407 deaths known to be virus-related, according to the state Department of Health and Environmental Control.

An additional 125 cases and eight deaths were announced Wednesday by the state agency, including the 35th in Clarendon County.

For most people, the coronavirus causes mild or moderate symptoms, such as fever and cough. But for others, especially older adults and people with existing health problems, the virus can cause severe symptoms and be fatal.