In Southwest Georgia, as throughout most of the country, the number of Covid deaths has been dropping steadily over the last few weeks. However, Perry Wellness Center continues to require indoor masking because of the volume of individuals in close proximity for several hours per day. Both peers and staff are cooperative with all health precautions.

Valentine’s Day presented a particular challenge, however, as photo taking was a big part of the day. A decorated “photo center” was set up as a backdrop for the taking of selfies and group photos. A mask is not the best accessory for photo portraits, but safety trumps vanity at a wellness and recovery center.

“If you do not want to be in the group picture or do not want to wear your mask, please go outside,” requested public information director Mulkey McMichael. “We must have proper protection.”

In the above photo, masked staff and peer members pose in front of the photo center for phone pictures to document the special day.