Many local businesses are beginning the reopening process now that the state has moved into Phase One. Modifications have been made to comply with social distancing and other protective measures.
Greg Layfield told The Journal that Fausto’s is now able to allow a limited number of customers to dine inside. Some tables have been isolated so that people can sit at a distance from the next diner. “It is a nightmare enforcing the 25% capacity requirement. People don’t understand what is required.” Layfield said Fausto’s obtained one of the loans available to businesses. “It’s the only thing that kept me going,” he said.
The York Chop is also welcoming inside dining, again with tables spaced at least six feet apart. They have opened up their special event room to daily dining to accommodate more customers.
The deli at the Chevron is still closed. Sam Cedars with Lott Oil Company told The Journal they are awaiting regulations for convenience stores that have in store dining areas. Chevron has protective shields between cashiers and customers and staff members are wearing protective masks.
Tyler Jones at Tyler Insurance said the main change they have made is that they are sterilizing the area between customers. He also said they are allowing only one customer inside at a time. Tyler Insurance has modified their hours to 9:00 am until 3:00 pm daily.
The Dairy Queen is offering drive-thru service at present. Trey Bamburg said they plan on offering dine-in soon. They are coordinating their plans with Dairy Queen corporate.
The Journal observed similar safety measures instituted at other businesses. Dairy Queen remains drive-up only. Same for Bank of Coushatta, American Bank and Sabine Bank. Rivertown Market is encouraging shoppers to stay at least 6 feet apart. There are safety shields at the check-out and employees are wearing masks.
On a personal note, the great food we enjoyed before this whole virus thing started is still available. The steaks and bar-b-que at York Chop are still top notch. (My wife and I dined there a few days ago.). The fried chicken and homemade pies are still out of this world at Fausto’s. (Had it last night.) And Dairy Queen still has the best treat in town, the blizzard. (Guilty again!)