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Colorado restaurant workers to be included in next round of COVID-19 vaccinations

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (KRDO) -- Employees in restaurants across the state have been deemed "essential workers" and will be included in the next round of coronavirus vaccinations, according to the Colorado Restaurant Association.

The CRA said it learned of the development earlier this week, and had been trying since the beginning of the vaccination process to get employees vaccinated as soon as possible -- even sending a letter to state officials and asking them about the matter every week.

"I think we should have been among the first to be vaccinated," said Nick Hoover, a CRA spokesman. "Especially when you consider how closely we work with customers who have to take off their masks to eat and drink. The main reason for this is to reassure customers that we're safe and our restaurants are safe."

Vaccinations for the restaurant industry could start as soon as next month.

Hoover also said that he hopes the change will eventually lead to increased seating capacities which currently are at 25% for many restaurants.

The next phase of vaccinations reportedly will include employees at restaurants and grocery stores, and other essential workers, after teachers and residents 65 and older receive the vaccine.

Colorado restaurants have lost $3 billion since the pandemic began nearly a year ago, the CRA said.

Some restaurant owners believe that having their employees vaccinated sooner will make customers feel more comfortable about eating out, and motivate the return of customers who have been uneasy about dining at eateries.

The CRA said that 10% of the state's workforce is restaurant employees who are deserving of essential worker status because they work in close contact with customers who have to take off their masks to eat and drink.

However, one restaurant manager isn't convinced that being vaccinated sooner is good for everyone.

"It's kind of scary," said Jamia Chenevert, of Luchal's Restaurant. "I can understand why (earlier vaccination is sought) since we're feeding so many people who come through here. But for us to have the vaccine mandatory, it's frightening. I'm not sure yet that I'd take it."

Luchals later clarified Chenevert's statement in an email to KRDO NewsChannel 13, stating: "She is definitely willing to take the vaccine and is not solely against it. We definitely do not want our customers to think we are not for what can be a healthier environment."

Addressing that issue is Ari Knaup, owner of Streetcar 520, a bar and restaurant.

"As an employer, I will highly recommend (getting the vaccine)," she said. "I cannot mandate that anybody get the vaccine, if they're not willing to. But I will just encourage everybody (to do so), as I feel it will help the entire industry move in the right direction."

Several customers talked with KRDO NewsChannel 13 Thursday about the situation.

"I care about it a lot," said Zykiear Mosley. "If there are people handling our food, they should definitely be first on the list to get the vaccine. I haven't been eating out as much since the pandemic. Eating out today, this is a treat."

Aaron Jelovic said that he recovered from COVID-19 and can understand how customers would be anxious about the health of employees or other customers.

"I think the change will definitely make people go out a little bit more, and I think that's a good thing because it will help the economy," he said.

Article Topic Follows: CovidRecovery

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Scott Harrison

Scott is a reporter for KRDO. Learn more about Scott here.

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