Gov. Newsom identifies ‘new normal’ when businesses are allowed back open

On Tuesday Gov. Gavin Newsom spoke on possible changes that could happen once things begin to get back to normal.

“This can’t be a permanent state and I want you to know, it’s not. It will not be a permanent state," Gov. Newsom said.

He addressed the state with a positive message and said the curve has bended because people have listened to the statewide order to stay at home. Although progress was made, the governor said there still is a ways to go.

He proceeded to speak on what people could anticipate when businesses begin to open back up.

“We talk about what the new normal will look like and normal, it will not be," Gov. Newsom said.

He emphasized a gradual progression for all sectors of society, including the restaurant industry.

"You may be having dinner with a waiter wearing gloves and a face mask-- dinner where the menu is disposable, where half of the table in that restaurant no longer appears," Gov. Newsom said.

The changes were stark compared to what so many of us are used to.

"I think California is in a good place where we’ve taken swift action in the beginning," Chris Chmielak, RD RNNR LPP Owner said.

Chris and Anita Chmielak have had to adapt quickly after opening their restaurant in Old Town La Quinta in November 2019.

"Whatever measures are set forth by the governor and our local leaders, we’ll put those in place and we’ll conform and definitely be advocates of the new ways of operation whether it comes to taking temperatures at the front of the restaurant..." Chmielak said.

Gov. Newsom mentioned taking temperature of potential patrons would likely be the next phase when the state decides to allow businesses to function.

"... or if it comes to social distancing by less occupancy throughout the restaurant we have quite a large floor plan in our restaurant so we don’t see that being an issue," Chmielak said.

The restaurant already made drastic changes by cutting staff hours and switching to takeout only. They've implemented changes all while giving back to the community and donating food to first responders.

Although they haven't been given the go-ahead to open back up just yet, they are looking forward to it.

"I think this will reset everyone’s mentality to enjoy a little bit more than what they used to before so that’s what I’m looking forward to when we reopen," Anita Chmielak, RD RNNR LPP Owner said.