‘Wartime mentality.’ Mayor de Blasio closes venues, limits food service

Mayor Bill de Blasio is limiting food service and closing a variety of venues in an effort to contain the rapidly spreading coronavirus outbreak.

The mayor says starting Monday, food service establishments will be limited to take-out and delivery. In addition, he is closing down various venues in the city.
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“Nightclubs, movie theaters, small theater houses and concert venues must all close. The order will go into effect Tuesday, March 17 at 9 a.m.,” de Blasio said in a tweet.

He went on to say that the measures are drastic, but necessary.
“These places are part of the heart and soul of our city. They are part of what it means to be a New Yorker. But our city is facing an unprecedented threat, and we must respond with a wartime mentality.”
Earlier in the day, the mayor also closed all city schools until at least April 20.
There are currently 329 cases in New York City and at least five deaths due to the coronavirus.