Business owners turn to community for support as new Pa. restrictions take effect

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Saturday, December 12, 2020
Business owners turn to community for support
Amid the new Pennsylvania restrictions, Ryan Christopher's in Narbeth, Montgomery County is depending on the community for support.

NARBERTH, Pennsylvania (WPVI) -- Ryan Christopher's in Narberth, Montgomery County is a very popular neighborhood spot.

Located in the corner of Iona and Woodbine avenues, the staff says it's not a traditional setup for outdoor dining.

That is why amid the new Pennsylvania restrictions, the restaurant is depending on the community for support.

"We're just going to have to push for more takeout," said the owner, Michael Klaumenzer.

RELATED: What you need to know about the new COVID-19 restrictions in Pennsylvania

State officials said the restrictions are necessary as COVID-19 cases in Pennsylvania are surging with an average of more than 10,000 cases per day.

Despite the hardships ahead, more than anything, they want the pandemic to end.

"I understand why, but it's still a hardship. We have families. It's Christmastime," said restaurant manager Kim Seeger.

At Fraschetta Restaurant on Lancaster Avenue in Bryn Mawr, owner Rosemarie Tran says the same.

But Tran hopes, since the state government is imposing these restrictions that they will receive support and help.

Across the street from Fraschetta is Grove 121 woman's clothing shop, which has also been hit with restrictions as retail shops can only have 50% capacity inside.

Sandy Edelstein, the owner, said, "The business part of me doesn't like it. But I've already sort of said to myself, 'This is how it's going to be, and I just got to get through this period.'"

Edelstein says she agrees with Governor Wolf.

"Maybe it's not popular to say, I think he's doing the right thing," Edelstein said. "I do think we have to do something. I think it's out of hand."