Local Businesses Adapt to COVID-19 Safety Concern

BY DAVID FISHER

david@dresdenenterprise.com

WEAKLEY COUNTY (March 24) — Area businesses are adapting to new rules established by Tennessee Governor Bill Lee’s Executive Order 17, calling for businesses across the state to utilize alternative business models to minimize the risk of transmitting the coronavirus.

Although restaurants, gyms and bars were specifically targeted by the order, other retail businesses are seeking to keep people as safe as possible by offering alternative ways of shopping.

Area department stores, and many other local businesses, are offering call-in ordering and pickup, and posting items online, so their customers have the option to order over the internet. Businesses with drive-up windows use this as an alternative to in-store shopping.

Local banks closed their lobbies to the public; however, customers may conduct banking business at the drive-through window or over the phone.

Local funeral homes are limiting the number of visitors attending visitation or funerals to family members only. No more than 10 visitors at a time are allowed in the room. This is done in accordance with Gov. Lee’s executive order of limiting gatherings to 10 people or fewer.

“We’re considering allowing families to have a memorial service at a later date at no charge,” Bowlin Funeral Home Director Scotty Brewer said. He added, “Those wishing to enter the funeral home to conduct business may make an appointment.”

Williams Funeral Home in Greenfield and Gleason are also following instructions by the National Funeral Directors Associations. The staff at these two funeral homes will be working with each individual family to insure their safety and also to satisfy their needs.

Murphy Funeral Home in Martin said they have been instructed by the governor, CDC, and the National Funeral Directors Associations, that they will only be having private family services beginning now until further notice.

Weakley County Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Barbara Virgin said, “The Weakley County Chamber appreciates your membership and dedicated support especially during this time. Currently, the health of our citizens and the vital heartbeat of our economy is threatened. The Chamber reminds you of the importance of creatively working together while physically staying apart, to be informed during this terrible COVID-19 crisis.

“Currently, for everyone’s health safety, the Chamber doors are temporarily closed to the public. Please stay connected to our local cities, the county, communities, and the Chamber through Facebook and local links on the Chamber website for State and National updates.

The Weakley County Chamber is determined to help employees, small businesses, industries, and citizens with the promise to conduct whatever means necessary to regain the strength in Weakley County’s economy moving progress toward a better future.”

The Chamber canceled its April banquet.