INDIAN RIVER COUNTY — A sea of green illuminated bars and restaurants across the county Tuesday for St. Patrick’s Day.
But, the moments were far from celebratory for some as 5 p.m. marked the deadline for all bars and nightclubs to close for 30 days amid the coronavirus outbreak.
“It’s unfortunate, but it brings the community closer together. You have to do what you have to do,” said Jessica Poman, 39, of Vero Beach, a patron at Filthy’s Fine Cocktails & Beer. “The small town businesses and service industry will be hit hard.”
Patrons celebrated the feast day with drinks as they wore the traditional green shirts, beads and hats. One motorcyclist cruised down Indian River Boulevard rocking a green goatee.
Some people at Filthy’s Fine Cocktails & Beer had positive reactions to Gov. Ron DeSantis’ decision Tuesday to close all bars and nightclubs at 5 p.m. to prevent the further spreading of coronavirus.
DeSantis also ordered a 50 percent capacity at all restaurants statewide.
Patron Crystal Rich said while the decision is a sad one, she completely understands the need for precaution. Rich, 38, of Sebastian, is a manager at Capt. Hiram’s Resort in Sebastian.
“It sucks for everyone especially the service industry,” Rich said. “But, we have to understand we’re doing this as a whole to prevent the spread. We have to work together to find a common solution.”
Rich said closings of bars and limited space at restaurants will cut business drastically.
“I worry for my staff,” Rich said. “We’re working to get them extra hours.”
Susan Dorato, who stopped by the Filthy’s bar, said it’s better to be safe than sorry.
“I feel bad for bar tenders and workers,” said Dorato, 55, of Vero Beach. “I think everyone’s doing a great job. Hopefully our president will come up with a good solution and help the middle class.”
Dorato said she is following guidelines from health experts.
“I take it seriously,” Dorato said. “The more isolation, the better.”
Kilted Mermaid owner Linda Moore said the restaurant is adhering to whatever instructions authorities send out. The band “Rowan’s Irish Rebels” played folk tunes at the eatery, packed with dozens of people during its busiest time of the year.
“We’ll do what we have to do to take care of the public,” Moore said.
Lee Olsen, general manager at Waldo’s Restaurant, said the eatery started limiting its customers on Monday, a day before DeSantis issued the order. Olsen said the restaurant closed inside dining, took away bar stools, and took out half of the outside tables as a precaution.
Olsen said the restaurant will close at 9 p.m. every day. He added that the eatery will focus on curbside pickup and to-go orders.
“We’re putting many safeguards in place. All employees must wear gloves. Nobody can come into work if they’re feeling ill,” Olsen said. “Things will be like this until April 1st.”