Dierks Bentley is stepping up to help employees of his bar, Whiskey Row in Nashville, as it closes down due to the coronavirus pandemic.
The news arrived on Monday (March 16), when Bentley turned to social media to share that his bar will close down until further notice in an effort to reduce the spread of the virus.
"Just gave last call @whiskeyrownashville as we close the doors for a while," Bentley shared. "My heart goes out to all the guys/girls down on Lower Broad. Feels like yesterday that it was me down there working for tips. I am going to immediately give each of our 90 hourly employees $1,000 to help in the short run as our community and country try to get a handle on the situation."
Bentley then continued on to call other bar owners to action as well and ensure their employees are taken care of.
"@riothospitalitygroup and I encourage all bar owners on Lower Broadway to take care of their bartenders, bar backs, waitresses, security, dishwashers etc the best they can," he added. "Lower Broadway is the heartbeat of Nashville. Let’s make sure we help the folks that help make the music happen."
Bentley's Whiskey Row is just one of the many Nashville bars and restaurants being forced to close during the COVID-19 pandemic. Kid Rock's Big Ass Honky Tonk Rock N' Roll Steakhouse, Tootsie's and Honky Tonk Central will also close despite initially refusing to do so.
So far, health officials with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention have confirmed more than 3,400 cases of the coronavirus in the United States and 68 deaths. Globally, the virus has infected more than 179,800 people and killed more than 7,100 according to the World Health Organization.
To keep up to date on the latest news about the coronavirus and to understand what you need to stay safe and healthy, check out the Coronavirus: Fact vs Fiction podcast from CNN Chief Medical Correspondent Dr. Sanjay Gupta.
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