POUGHKEEPSIE – Local businesses in Dutchess County are moving forward as the COVID-19 restrictions are eased. The historic Chance Theater on Crannell Street is preparing to resume shows at the live music venue in August and neighboring Duces Restaurant is ready to serve food indoors.
Theater owner Frank Pallett was working in Monday’s sweltering heat to make repairs to the box office of the theater. “This pandemic really hurt us,” said Pallett. “We had shows scheduled through July and have had to cancel all of them. We’re planning to resume operations in August so I’m getting ready.”
Next door to the theater is Duces Restaurant at DC Golf. Owner Dan Pizzarelli has been operating his restaurant as a “take-out only” establishment pursuant to the guidelines. When the new phase of re-opening permitted, he set up a tent outside of his location to allow for patrons to sit and enjoy a meal. In addition to working on his restaurant, the staff at Duces has been helping Frankie Flowers prepare food every Saturday for the last eight weeks. Flowers has been distributing food for those in need every day since the pandemic struck.
“With phase 3 starting tomorrow, we will be allowed to have indoor dining at 50 percent of our capacity,” said Pizzarelli. “We are poised to do quite well because of the size of our facility. We have the capacity for 125 patrons downstairs and an additional 75 upstairs, so we are prepared.”
The restaurateur noted that they will be hosting Trivia Tuesdays as a way to draw in patrons. Tables will be appropriately spaced and masks will be required when patrons move about the facility, including the restrooms.
Pizzarelli also owns DC Sports in Wappingers Falls. The multi-sport venue has outdoor miniature golf, bumper boats, and beach volleyball. Inside there are golf simulators, arcade games, and a snack bar. There is also a stage for outdoor music performances.
Miniature golf was allowed to reopen at the start of phase 2 and Pizzarelli said, “People are loving that we are open.” Masks are mandatory inside of the facility. Tables have been set up for outside dining. For the miniature golf, Pizzarelli said that the balls and clubs are sanitized after each use.
Phase 4, scheduled for July 6 will see the return of bumper boats and beach volleyball. Live bands are set to begin outdoor performances on July 11 with social distancing rules in place, according to Pizzarelli.
