DILWORTH, Minn. — One week after a 10 p.m. statewide curfew was put into place, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz now says all bars and restaurants must close their doors except for takeout or delivery.
The announcement has frustrated some people that work in the service industry, like Silver Spike Bar & Grill bar manager Jacob Knodel.
"(We're) frustrated with all the uncertainty of what's going on," explained Knodel. "(After) finally working out all the kinks and getting our name out there and getting everything in check, and now we need to take a step back instead of a step forward."
The situation was looking merry and bright to recoup those building expenses that included an event room that was booked through the holidays.
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"(We're) canceling all of our parties and (losing) that family foot traffic of checking out a new place," said Knodel.
Walz is asking for the federal government to send bailout money immediately.
"You are doing a public service beyond anything that should ever been asked of you. By closing your doors and putting your financial well-being at risk you are protecting the lives of our neighbors," the governor said during a primetime announcement.
It's an even bigger blow to bars and restaurants along the border, especially in the Red River Valley where North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum just eased capacity restrictions.
The Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association said they have had discussions with Walz, but no discussions with them happened before Walz announced these new restrictions.
"There have not been a lot (of) exceptions or details thought through yet because it's happening so quickly," said Leslie Rosedahl, a spokeswoman for the Minnesota Licensed Beverage Association.
This industry is not alone. The governor says you are not allowed to mingle with people outside of your house, and that movie theaters, bowling alleys and other indoor entertainment venues and gyms need to close.
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"It's a mental and physical problem," said Jeff Knoll as he walked into Planet Fitness in Moorhead.
This time around, churches, hair salons, barbershops and retail stores will be allowed to remain open.
"I'm asking you to do something that should have never have been asked as you again, and I want to acknowledge what is being asked is hard work," said Walz.
At the Silver Spike there's 48 hours until last call. They plan on reopening whenever that may be, but not every mom and pop business will get another shot.
"He doesn't understand the impact he is going to create not only for the next month but from here on out," said Knodel.
