LAFAYETTE — Major closures are going into effect across the state to help fight the spread of the coronavirus.
Casinos, bars and movie theaters across the state are now closed and will remain closed until April 13.
In Lafayette Parish, gyms, bowling alleys and golf courses are now closed until March 29.
Members of RevFit Gym attended class as usual Monday except this time, they won't return until at least late March because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
"This gym is more than just a gym; we're a community. So, to think of being away from our people for two weeks, it's heart-wrenching," said Crystal Trahan, owner of RevFit Gym. "At the same time, I know that crisis is going to bring us together."
With the help of her staff, Trahan is now implementing a plan to continue serving their nearly 1600 members during the shutdown.
"We're also creating an online community to where we'll be posting different workouts that they can do from their house," said Trahan. "When we come back, we definitely won't take it for granted. We're going to come together and get through it together. Be fit through crisis; that's the goal for it."
Restaurants, like Antoni's Italian Café, are also preparing for the mandate.
"We expected it to happen. We didn't think it would happen today, but it is what it is, and we are ready for it," said Holly Cure, owner of Antoni's Italian Café.
Starting Tuesday, restaurants will only be offering carry-out, delivery and drive-through options.
"Although it is necessary, and we totally understand that, it's just that we hope people will care less about our business and more about the fact that our staff will be affected by that," said Cure.
Some who won't be enjoying the same things they normally would, like seeing a movie, are trying to remain hopeful.
"As a matter of fact, I really and truly think all of this is going to change, and I hope it just was all being a little bit too paranoid, and it's going to clear up," said theater-goer Paul Saucier. "But, who knows if it will or not."
If you're affected by the restrictions and closures, you might be eligible for assistance through the Louisiana Workforce Commission. Click here for more information.
