Many local eateries have shut down their dining rooms during the COVID-19 crisis. But Ruby Tuesday's, the chain restaurant on the north side of Interstate 30 in Texarkana, has closed for good.
A sign on the door announced the restaurant was closing.
We don't know what, if any, effect the state-mandated restriction on inside dining had on the company's decision. But we do know that for a lot of Texarkana and area dining spots, it will have a big impact.
Many places are trying to keep things going by offering take-out service or delivery. We wish them the best.
Even with those options, things will be tough. Some smaller, mom-and-pop operations run on a thin margin anyway. It's possible some won't survive the shutdown, especially should it continue past the current estimate of two weeks to a month.
There are also their employees to consider. Restaurants can't keep a full staff if business is too low. And finding another job won't be easy with so many others looking.
If you can, continue to support our local restaurants with carry-out and delivery orders. And be sure to tip those who serve you, just as you would if you were dining in.
We all want to see our friends and neighbors make it through these tough times. And we want to see our favorite places re-open once the danger has passed.