In our small community, each and every small business is vital to the local economy and our quality of life. Here we highlight 3 more businesses in Rolling Fork and how they fared during the quarantine.
Poe Chiropractic Clinic did not close their clinic, but saw a sharp decrease in business as people stayed home. Dr. Brandon Poe said his business was down probably 90% but is gradually going up. The use of hand sanitizer has always been a part of Poe’s practice, however, now as patients enter the clinic, temperatures are taken as a precautionary measure as well. Tables and door handles are wiped down after each patient and other necessary precautions are taken.
Service Lumber Company did not close during the quarantine but did close the store to the public opting to offer curbside service instead. Now that the store is open to the public, there is a sanitizing station as you enter that patrons are asked to use. Clear barriers have been installed at the counters to protect both customers and employees. Curbside service is still available for those that prefer to use it.
With planting season underway, Mississippi Ag is definitely an essential business. They, like all the businesses we’ve talked with, now take additional measures with their cleaning and sanitizing of the store.
For most of April, the door to MS AG was locked, customers needing parts could call in and pick up their part from outside the door. After reopening, the parts counter installed double monitors so that customers could see the screen while maintaining a 6-foot distance behind the marked barrier. Mechanics making service calls can only have 1 person per truck for the safety of employees. The store has also discouraged social gatherings inside.
Once again, we asked businesses why people should shop local and received the following responses:
- To keep our economy going
- Keep our small businesses from shutting down
- It is important if you live here that you support your local businesses
- To keep our town viable
- It provides jobs
It is our hope that this pandemic has allowed each of us to realize that we can get most of the things we need at home. Go get your back adjusted, pick up some mulch or fertilizer – or lumber, and wave at that piece of equipment on the road – or go buy one!
Support Local, Buy Local, and keep Rolling Fork’s businesses in Business!