Verona’s gyms, restaurants and bars are rolling out alternative ways to serve their customers after Gov. Phil Murphy ordered a wide range of restrictions on these businesses to limit the spread of the novel coronavirus COVID-19.
Today, the state ordered gyms, fitness centers and fitness classes to close to the public until further notice. Restaurants, food businesses and bars can stay open, but they can only offer takeout or delivery, not on-premise dining. If Verona still had a movie theater, it would have to close, and all other “non-essential” retail, recreational, and entertainment businesses must observe an 8 p.m. to 5 a.m. curfew. Food stores, pharmacies, medical supply stores, gas stations and healthcare facilities are exempt from the order, but Cedar Grove’s Foodtown is closing at 8 p.m. instead of its usual 10 p.m. As of now, there are no known cases of COVID-19 in Verona but 20 people have tested positive elsewhere in Essex County.
But these small local businesses don’t have deep corporate resources to tide them over until the epidemic passes. So they are scrambling to find alternative ways of serving their customers.
Hardbodyz Fitness is going to hold a group workout in its parking lot on Wednesday at 9 a.m. The class is limited to 10 people and costs $20 per person, so you’ve got to contact [email protected] to secure your spot.
Verona Yoga has to close but it is using its Facebook page to highlight videos that could help its clients to practice at home.
Avenue Bistro is offering curbside pickup and, since it is one of the few restaurants in town with a liquor license, it is inviting the community to enjoy anything on its wine list at half-price when you take the wine home as package goods.
Some restaurants are offering meal packages like Nick’s Salugo Bistro, which has a “Stay at Home” special for $29.99.
Bottom line: If there is a Verona business that you have patronized in the past, check its website or social media to see how you can be a supportive customer until the coronavirus passes. These businesses support Verona sports and community services in many, many ways.
STATE BUSINESS RESOURCES
COVID-19/Novel Coronavirus Information for New Jersey Businesses
