Portsmouth Mayor Kevin E. Johnson speaks out on restaurant closings
Portsmouth Mayor Kevin E. Johnson is speaking out about Governor Mike DeWine’s decision to order the shutdown of all bars and restaurants in the state of Ohio until further notice starting at 9 pm Sunday, March 15. The move was made to slow the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
When I contacted the Mayor Sunday evening, he said, “At the present time, the main desire of our city leaders is the protection and well being of our citizens. Our city will offer full compliance with the wishes of Governor DeWine. We will keep our community up to date through all sources of media as we continue to be updated through various sources.”
The order does not affect takeout or delivery at restaurants. Mayor Johnson said he would encourage citizens to help support local businesses by taking advantage of those options.
Many businesses took to social media to ask customers to not forget about them. Patsy’s Inn posted, “Patsy’s will remain open for carryout to all and delivery to local businesses. Under this most recent declaration by the Governor, we ask that our loyal customers continue to support us in this difficult time by ordering take out. We appreciate your business and pray that this doesn’t last too long.”
Patties and Pints asked customers to be patient as they transitioned to takeout and delivery service. “We will be working hard to ensure these options are as smooth as possible. We will have designated parking spaces so customers can pull up and take their food to go. We all are getting used to a new way of life, however temporary it may be.”
Sonora’s Mexican Grill says it’s adding free delivery and will expand the delivery area to include Portsmouth, New Boston, Sciotoville, South Webster, Wheelerburg, Franklin Furnace, South Shore, and Rosemount. They will meet anyone who lives farther away at a location in the delivery area. They are also adding a 20% discount to orders placed by medical personnel. In a Facebook post, the owners said, ” We will get through this! We just have to wait this out! Thank you to everyone who remains by our side and know that we love and appreciate you all! Prayers for everyone!!”
Governor DeWine said images of crowded bars sent to him by concerned citizens prompted the closing ahead of St. Patrick’s Day, traditionally the busiest bar day of the year.