South of the Border reopens after COVID precautions temporarily close doors

In August, WTIP reported on the temporary closure of a Gunflint Trail business, the Poplar Haus, because some of the employees had potentially been exposed to the coronavirus. Another local business–South of the Border Cafe–recently went through the same process.

South of the Border owner James “Sporto” Ford told WTIP that several employees at South of the Border were exposed to someone who later tested positive for COVID-19, so the decision was made to close the cafe. Four staffers were tested and were quarantined for the recommended period. All of the workers’ tests came back negative, as did Ford.

Ford said the restaurant was cleaned in accordance with public health guidelines and the doors are open once again, hopefully to stay open; however, Ford added that nothing is certain in this pandemic.

As always, WTIP reminds the public of the precautions put forward by national and local health officials. As cases spiked in the county, with four active cases reported over the weekend, Public Health Supervisor Grace Grinager reminds people to stay home and seek a COVID-19 test if you feel even mildly sick with COVID symptoms, stay six feet apart from those outside of your household, wear a mask and wash your hands regularly.

WTIP’s Rhonda Silence spoke with James “Sporto” Ford, owner of the popular local hangout for breakfast or a burger, to learn more.

Rhonda Silence October 26, 2020