“Came all the way from Florida only to have our family’s vacation destroyed,” says tourist
DENVER (AP) — Colorado’s governor and a state lawmaker criticized a former Florida lieutenant governor who complained that his vacation was ruined when Vail closed its ski resort due to concerns about the coronavirus.
Former Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp tweeted his displeasure Saturday after industry giants Vail Resorts and Alterra Mountain Company said they would close dozens of North America’s most well-known resorts, including the iconic Vail resort in Colorado.
Colorado Gov. Jared Polis also ordered the state’s downhill resorts to close for a week to mitigate the virus’s spread.
“Thank you for making this announcement as we are driving in to Vail,” Kottkamp tweeted after Vail announced its closure. “Came all the way from Florida only to have our family’s vacation destroyed.”
The Denver Post reports that Polis and Democratic state Sen. Kerry Donovan were quick to react.
“Thank you for your deep concerns regarding the health of our residents in the face of a global pandemic, as well as your heartfelt sympathy for the difficulties faced by those who work in the ski industry and hospitality,” Polis said.
Donovan, whose district includes Vail, said, “We should be commending (Vail’s decision), not complaining. But, please keep thinking of yourself.”
Sage Naumann, spokesman for Colorado Senate Republicans, joined in Sunday.
“‘Came all the way from Florida only to realize Colorado is actually stepping up to prevent the spread of a global pandemic,’” Naumann tweeted. “Fixed it for you, Lieutenant Governor. Colorado is united in beating this.”
Kottkamp, an attorney, was lieutenant governor of Florida from 2007 to 2011. The Republican also served in that state’s House of Representatives.
Kottkamp couldn’t immediately be reached Sunday by telephone or email for comment.
Polis has banned public gatherings of more than 250 people and taken other measures to mitigate the spread of the coronavirus, which the World Health Organization has deemed a pandemic.
The disease for most people causes only mild or moderate symptoms. For some, it can cause more severe illness. The vast majority recover.
In the U.S., 57 people have died, including one in Colorado.