I wish I could use this column to NOT talk about the COVID 19 pandemic that has dictated all aspects of our lives the past few months, but here we are. We made a few decisions when all this started. We decided not to publish the usual May-June Kentucky Restaurant Journal. Back in March and April – and even some days now – circumstances and rules changed seemingly every few hours. Whatever information we could have conveyed in that issue would have changed about 12 times between when it was written and when you read it. We also decided that we were not going to invoice for member dues for several months. We pushed pause, hoping whatever revenue you were able to capture you could use immediate necessities. We’re starting that slowly now, but we understand if it is not yet the right time for you to renew. Not so much a decision, but our mindset has been that it is KRA’s responsibility to protect and advocate for every restaurant in Kentucky. Membership lines are invisible to me as we take questions from restaurants all over the state. I hope if they are able to withstand this uncertain time they will become a member when their business is healthier. We have seen closures, and we will see more. It breaks my heart that circumstances beyond your control have turned every business decision you make into a make it or break it scenario, and I want you to know I have been and will continue fighting for you.
I am astounded that our administration did not assemble and take direct input from a group of restaurant industry professionals as they began to make decisions. Early on, I expected such a group to be appointed as it was in most other states. When a reopening date of May 22 was finally announced by Governor Beshear’s office, I felt sure our reopening plan would be considered and we would see a document from the Governor’s office before it was made available to others. Again, it did not happen that way – believe me, we asked and pushed, pestered and requested. I want to assure you that your interests have been presented to the administration repeatedly. I have spent a lot (!) of time the past few months answering questions, deciphering Healthy at Work recommendations, conducting interviews, communicating with the Governor’s office and working to keep restaurants front of mind in both the public forum (get carryout, get delivery, buy gift cards!) and with the powers that be. We partnered with Fleur de Lis Communications on a “Welcome Forward” campaign as restaurants began to open knowing how important it is for your customers to understand all the measures you’re taking. Those PSAs were aired all over Kentucky with several thousand online impressions. Check out this stat – KRA had over 139 million online and print mentions in May alone! You may have seen me on the news or quoted in articles a few times.
I am proud to serve Kentucky restaurants, and I hope you will contact me or our office with any questions or issues you have. We are here for you, no matter your restaurant type or location. I thank you for the opportunity to advocate on your behalf.