Moving Forward
Greetings from Downtown DeLand! We hope that you and your families are well. This has been a very unusual time for us all. Like many of you I am currently working from home with an occasional visit to the MainStreet office. We want you to know that our businesses have done a great job with “Curbside” pickup. Thanks to all of you who have supported the downtown businesses during the last month.
Governor DeSantis has moved Florida forward to “Phase 1” of Reopening Up America Again. That means that now our retail businesses and restaurants can open for customers. It starts with 25% of their capacity. Restaurants can also use outside dining. This is an important first step in bringing Downtown DeLand to a renewed vitality.
We are working with a committee made up of MainStreet, Chamber, City, restaurant owners, merchants and others to develop a strategic plan to help our downtown recover from this set back as quickly as possible. As we move forward, we are often asked, “What can I do to help?” You can help your favorite downtown businesses buy following them on social media, buying their products, liking and sharing their posts, and spreading the good news that this remarkable community is coming back to life.
Now, as businesses reopen, you have the opportunity to begin to venture out and enjoy a delicious meal or actually go to your favorite shop. These people who own these businesses are important to our downtown and they are your friends. I would like to ask a favor of you. If you are able, please find a way to support them.
As we move forward we are all aware of the requirements for safe distancing, hand washing, small groups, etc. Our businesses will do their best to keep you and their staffs safe and healthy. They will also be very glad to serve you when you come back downtown.
So many people are cheering for Downtown DeLand these days. We look forward to coming back better than ever! Thanks for doing your part.
See you Downtown,
Wayne Carter
Executive Director
MainStreet DeLand Association