Graffiti with a positive message regarding coronavirus is seen on the side of a building days before the phased reopening of businesses and restaurants COVID-19 restrictions in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo: Reuters/Elijah Nouvelage)

ATLANTA, GEORGIA: With the US coronavirus death toll nearing 50,000, Georgia pushed ahead with its plan to become the first state to allow an array of small businesses to reopen on Friday (Apr 24) despite the disapproval of US President Donald Trump and health experts.