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As restrictions are slowly being lifted in Kearney, UNK students share their thoughts and concerns about bars staying open. 

“I think bars should remain closed and not open until numbers decrease drastically in cases,” said Diana Ramirez, a sociology major. “I believe they should stay closed because going to bars is a social event and one where masks cannot be worn the whole time. People are getting drinks and interacting closely. These do not align with safely social distancing. I also believe these interactions and others alike are raising our COVID cases.”

Many other students agree that opening bars could be a step backward for the Kearney community. 

“Although many people are starting to get vaccinated, I still think going to the bars is unsafe. Though the vaccine is effective for most people, there is no way to determine the minority for who the vaccine isn’t effective,” said Kayla Hall, a nursing student at UNMC. “That small percentage of people may think they are safe but still be spreading the virus to those around them. It is better to be safe than sorry, and I think until covid numbers have dropped dramatically and effective treatment is found, large group gatherings should continue to be discouraged.” 

Even with concerns of COVID cases spiking some students still believe there are benefits to keeping bars open.

“Bars are a great revenue stream for the city of Kearney,” said Jaden Myers, a human resource major. “With COVID it is easy to get down and depressed when people can’t have a social life. Bars are a great way to boost people’s happiness, College kids will stay in Kearney if the bars are open, which will affect other businesses because having more people in Kearney will result in more revenue being generated throughout the city.”

Although views differ from student to student, all want what will be the best for the Kearney community.