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While I generally enjoy Larry McDermott’s columns, lately they seem to focus on what I call “fear-mongering” – the sky is falling!

I totally agree with him that we should all make attempts to visit our local restaurants and provide support to our fellow citizens here. But, I do not believe that we have a huge problem here in our Foothills. Polk residents worked diligently to keep our restaurants going during COVID-19, and, for the most part, we succeeded despite our government’s attempts to keep us home.

Opening and keeping restaurants open is a perpetual challenge. Nationally, about 60% of new restaurants close within a year, and about 80% close within five years. These are tough statistics but nothing new. And don’t forget, the number of new restaurants in Boiling Springs trying to woo people to their doors is daunting.

But every restaurant in our area that provides good food and good service is surviving, if not thriving. Drive by the Hare and Hound or Southern Manners someday and see if you can even find a place to park. Or, stop into the Trade Street Diner for excellent food and ice cream. Calvert’s in Columbus and Side Street Pizza in Tryon are always packed. The Purple Onion and Ward’s Grill in Saluda are doing well.

Instead of a column bemoaning the potential loss of restaurants, I provide a hearty thank you to all the locals who already patronize our local eateries and encourage them all to keep up the good work!

 

Stuart R. Goldstein

Green Creek