Caity Healy | Managing Editor

Jubilee, Independence, OR

What was your reaction when the stay-at-home order was announced?

My reaction was disbelief, as I am such a new business in Independence, and it just got harder. So, needless to say, I’m feeling a little defeated. Closing a restaurant was not what I anticipated. It’s very hard for a small business to begin with, but a restaurant in a small town is even harder.

How did your business react and adapt to the situation?

We did a lot of take out service to start with, but closing to not get exposed to the virus was pretty drastic. But, we have been taking special orders and delivering. We also sell wine/champagne and we are now able to deliver with a new special license.

How has this affected your business overall?

It’s affected our business greatly, but to be honest, the outreach and support of the community has been amazing! We are definitely not taking in as much revenue, but we are doing the best we can and hope for the best when we reopen!

Anything else you’d like to add?

I’d like to just say thank you to all of the people who love and support us! We will survive and thrive! I mean, who doesn’t need a dessert and champagne bar in their own little town?

The Find, Monmouth, OR

What was your reaction when the stay-at-home order was announced?

My first reaction was concerned, and worried how long the order would last for the community and the impact was going to be on so many families everywhere.

How did your business react and adapt to the situation?

We had amazing support from people in the community that stepped up and helped us try to reinvent ourselves so we could continue to serve our customers and community for their needs during this time, while taking all safety precautions.

How has this affected your business overall?

It’s devastated our business and we have no way of knowing the long term impact at this point, but we have continued to support many of the small businesses in our community, as well as received wonderful support and love from the amazing people in this community.

Anything else you’d like to add?

We just want to thank the community and all the people who have supported us, as well as the other businesses in our town that make our community so special. We are in this together and can’t wait to see all their sweet faces again.

Contact the author at chealy16@wou.edu