THIS IS A BIG DEAL, BECAUSE IN MANY POOR AND RURAL COMMUNITIES, MCDONALD’S IS THE COMMUNITY CENTER: McDonald’s to shut seating, play areas amid COVID-19 pandemic. “To align with increasing regulations throughout the country, effective at the close of business today, McDonald’s USA company-owned restaurants will close seating areas, including the use of self-service beverage bars and kiosks, and shift our focus to serving customers through Drive-Thru, walk-in take-out and McDelivery.”