on the cover
Some businesses provide masks and hand sanitizer for those that don’t have their own
Think you know the hours of your
favorite store or restaurant? You might
want to check in with them before
heading their way, as we found that
many local businesses have shortened
their hours. This is especially true for
restaurants and bars, as they are required
in the Phase One Re-Opening Guidelines
to close at 10 pm. A few businesses we
spoke to are making their hours tentative
and tell us that they are taking it day by
day. Weekends on the coast bring big
numbers of visitors and the potential for
much-needed sales. But there is also the
possibility of infection due to contact with
those from more populated areas with
more cases of the novel coronavirus. The
larger numbers of people in town makes
some owners nervous. One local business
we spoke to told us that despite the
chance to make more sales on weekends,
they have made the decision to only be
open on weekdays for the time being.
They hope this will allow locals to shop
but reduce their employees’ exposure to
too many people.
As you venture out into the shopping
world, or make an appointment to
get your nails done, or stop by a
local restaurant for a bite or a sip, we
recommend that you familiarize yourself
with each business’ safety precautions.
Call ahead and ask if masks are required,
read the new flyers taped to the window
or pop your head in and ask an employee
what is expected of you. The times we
live in often require an extra step here
or there but, with the cooperation of our
community, we can work though the kinks
and find our equilibrium. Compassion for
owners, managers and employees during
these difficult times is one of the greatest
gifts you can give as you avail yourself
of the services offered locally. Tip your
waitresses and your barbers, smile at the
cashier as you check out (don’t worry you
can see a smile even through a mask)
and make a little extra room in front of
you when you stand in line — it makes a
difference.
•••
In addition to being professional
photographers, Krista Melone and Rachel
Baird are co-owners of Tah•Lume Curiosities
& Gifts, which offers online commerce at
www.tahlume.com.
The now-familiar six-foot distance marks and “stand here” signs
oregoncoastTODAY.com • facebook.com/oregoncoasttoday • June 5, 2020 • 13