Image courtesy of NYC BagelsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

NYC Bagels is another local spot staying open for its customers, but alas the stress and pressure of COVID19 is affecting business here as wellGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Known for the warmth and good vibes, things are just not the same when people aren’t able to sit and enjoy itGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

It is hard to keep up with bills when business is so slow, not including issues with vendors who prioritize the “big guys” and supermarkets making supply deliveries more difficult, and also running with less staffGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Co-Owner Giannis Batas explains how grateful he is to the staff he has left and encourages them to put their health and needs firstGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. “No one is forced to work and if at any time someone is not feeling 100% they are free to go home and take all the time they needGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.” He encourages them to stay positive, calm, and tries to create an atmosphere that feels safe and comfortable for both the employees and customersGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. He also knows how important spreading these positive vibes are, and how it reflects on everyone while trying to keep morale upGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Image courtesy of NYC BagelsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Although you can’t see it through the mask, Batas wants to keep a smile on his customers facesGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Every precaution necessary is taken, with workers using masks, gloves, and sneeze guards to put customers at easeGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. At NYC Bagels, employees are also extremely careful with how things are packedGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. At the end of the day, everyone is doing the best they canGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Mentally COVID19 has taken a toll on many people, and understandably soGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. The drama fed on the media only adds to the fear and negativityGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Batas remains hopeful things will end soonGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. “No one sees the positiveGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. No one looks at it as another day to be alive, to focus on the survivors, or cases of COVID decreasingGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.” People should do what they can to stay sane, and try to stay in touch with their loved ones as much as they canGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028. Until things get better all we can do is take it a day at a time, be understanding of each other, and each do our own partGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.

Image courtesy of NYC BagelsGive_Me_Astoria_image_00028.