Variety Store sets special early hours for COVID-19 high-risk people

Today, Saturday, May 16, the day visitors are welcomed back to the island, island businesses are getting ready for the season.

The Ocracoke Variety Store will be among some businesses that will encourage the wearing of face masks during this COVID-19 pandemic.

The store also will institute a special shopping time from 6:30 to 7:30 a.m. for people aged 60 or older or considered high risk of catching the disease. Tommy Hutcherson, proprietor, said Friday that those entering the store at that early hour will be required to wear a face mask and the door will be guarded so that customers comply.

Also, the store’s hours will change from 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. for the public. Hutcherson said face mask-wearing is highly encouraged during these hours. He has also set up a table outside the door with gloves and hand sanitizer.

For a list of open and closed businesses on Ocracoke, click here.