A note about this weekend...

First, want to start out by saying this situation is unfair to all of us. COVID divides us, make us question everything, and at the same time feel certain about things we should not feel certain about. However, we still have businesses to run…

We have nearly 300 employees that depend on money provided by our businesses. Maybe it is gas money, maybe it is money for entertainment, but for many it is about living day to day. They have handled this situation with as much grace that can be asked. Love them.

Many employees have been asked to be the mask police. Many have had to be a public health official. And many have had to be borderline security guards. All over rules set by government with no enforcement protocols by the people making the rules.

Then you have the public that takes pictures/videos on rules they don't know. For some reason businesses are expected (sometimes demanded) to be the enforcer of what is personal responsibility. We do not control things outside of the space we rent and cannot be expected to.

Just like you have bills that do not stop— businesses do too. We wish they did but rent is due, salaries need to be paid for everyone involved, and a laundry list of other expenses that do not stop for COVID.

For those coming into town this weekend know that CollegeTown merchants are 100% doing everything they can do to remind you of personal responsibility. We ordered 17 massive banners to hang up— 17, all at our own expense— reminding to wear a mask and social distance.

We have dedicated employees to keep people spaced while in line NOT on our property. Again, another expense we are paying for when we are not even at 100% capacity for the last 6 months. There are many more— all trying to do the right thing.

We are trying like we do every day to abide by all the laws and protocols. Before you whip out a camera to capture one small sliver of time in a 12+ hour day, know the state and local laws. We have been investigated by DBPR plenty of times and have passed each time with praise.

Finally, people working are people— just like you— and they are doing the best they possibly can to support themselves. We will continue to development/refine protocols— we, and every business, just ask for a little grace. We will follow the law, not someone’s individual beliefs