MEMPHIS, Tenn. – While hundreds of businesses closed their door during the frigid conditions, Memphis drivers still hit the roads in search for food.
“Mane, I’m blessed, really,” said Parker Booker, who drove from Orange Mound to the Kroger on Poplar and Highland. The father of eight was able to buy his kids food while they are out of school. “Last night, I ain’t get a chance to get out because I was at work, so I’m really kind of glad that they stayed open for a minute,” he explained.
A spokesman for Kroger confirmed the company planned on keeping all locations open on Friday.
“It is great, because I came last night and it was crazy,” said Victor Beltrán, an East Memphis resident. “Hundreds of people. So I came today.”
“Due to the winter weather, and for the safety of our associates, stores may close early on a case-by-case basis,” the spokesman said. “Please check the Kroger app for updates.”
While shoppers were grateful, they reported mixed conditions on the roadways. “If you don’t have a (four-wheel drive), stay at home, for sure,” Beltrán told FOX13.
“The roads are not that bad,” said Nola Madison, an East Buntyn resident. “I made it on through. Vroom, vroom!”
It wasn’t just corporations: Some mom-and-pop shops stayed open during the storm. “People got to eat,” said Tim Bednarski, the owner of Elwood’s Shack.
He planned to staff both his restaurants to serve the community during normal hours on Friday. “A lot of people are trapped in their houses,” Bednarski said. “The roads aren’t very good and we’re walking distance for them.”
“It’s a place that can work and it’s comfy, cozy and warm,” said Fuller Rivera. “I can get out of the house, which is huge in this weather.”
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