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Some local businesses are facing new challenges, due in-part to the surge in coronavirus cases and winter weather approaching. "I want to encourage everybody to come to our establishments, but we're also in the middle of a global pandemic here and people are dying," said Tom Zmolek, the president of the Historic Court Avenue District. "And so you have to make that more personal choice of what your beliefs are and what your comfort level is." Zmolek says he's understanding of anyone's decision. Iowa's surge in COVID-19 cases and the approaching winter weather, both add on to the problems Zmolek says Court Avenue businesses are already seeing. He tells ����vlog a lot of establishments are operating at 20-40% of what they used to, despite the better foot traffic they see during the day than the night. ����vlog tried speaking with several bar and restaurant owners Sunday afternoon. Some declined due to how busy they were. "Everybody's kind of bracing for the second wave and potential shutdowns," explained Zmolek. If another shutdown were to happen, Zmolek says it could be more impactful than before. "They really need some state funding or you're going to see a lot of establishments that aren't going to make it t0 2021," said Zmolek. Businesses will have to continue doing what they can to stay afloat: operating under restrictions that may limit their income, but will enforce social distancing. He hopes the community will continue to be just as supportive as they always have been. "Continue to do curbside pickup, to-go orders, to-go drink orders," said Zmolek.