Columbia business sees successful weekend, health department gives no suspensions

COLUMBIA, Mo. (KMIZ)

One local business saw a successful weekend after the University of Missouri's first home football game, while the local health department did not suspend any operating permits in Columbia on Saturday.

Richard Walls, Owner and Manager of The Heidelberg, a downtown restaurant in Columbia said the first home game day of the season went really well.

Walls said it was great seeing students, families and even customers from Alabama come to the restaurant to enjoy the game while adhering to the local health department guidelines. 

“It's a great feeling,” Walls said.“Football Saturdays are a vital part of our business and it was wonderful to see that it went off well and business was good.”

Scott Clardy, the Columbia and Boone County Health Department Assistant Director said there were no operating permit suspensions given on Saturday in Columbia.

The current health order states standing at a bar, counter or buffet is not allowed.

Walls believes that businesses and customers understand what the health guidelines and rules are and thinks this first game was a good example of what the future of game days could look like. 

“We're looking at not just one game but five games," Walls said, "The next game is homecoming, we're going to do everything right. I think we're all willing to follow those.”

Walls said after this weekend, he thinks it shows that now would be a great time to start allowing businesses to safely function during their normal business hours. 

“It's important for our students," Walls said. "It's important for the guests visiting and I know that with homecoming coming up, it's a wonderful experience for everyone. We want to keep it a wonderful experience for everyone.”

Walls said now that one safe and successful game day is under their belt, he hopes this shows the community can trust businesses moving forward.

“The businesses,” Walls said. “We're all in this together, we want to make sure that everyone has a great time, they leave safely, they leave happy and we want to keep doing that.”

Walls said The Heidelberg wants to be able to allow its customers to enjoy themselves, while allowing its employees to earn a living. 

He said that money goes back into the community so when people come, they have a great time and see what Columbia can offer.