Letter: We are all in this together

One of the reasons I’ve loved being an entrepreneur is that I get to control a lot of the stress in my life. Decisions made running my businesses (Smalley Coffee and Brew – with my co-owner Barry Dunlop) are made by me/us and we live with the outcomes knowing it was our decision. With the news of the Coronavirus (COVID-19), I’ve never experienced a scarier time for (my) business. And, I’ve never felt as out of control. 

I’ve had customers at Brew ask me how things are going and I answer honestly, “its been slower, but we are managing…but I’m terrified if things slow down more”. If it slows down more, then we have a big problem. A problem that may have some short-term solutions, but could be detrimental to our business (and the lives of all of us who rely on the business to provide income) if they last too long. 

The reality is this: small business has the word “small” in it for a reason; we are small. We fight really hard to survive on good days to earn a modest living. It’s really hard. I’m scared to imagine what bad days or, gulp, weeks might be like. 

We are doing everything we can for our business to survive — looking at new ideas for revenue, limiting hours, communicating openly — but it’s going to take a village. 

But there’s more to do, and I’m putting myself and some ideas out there. I love this community. Since moving here I’ve seen how supportive it is of its people and it’s what makes Dubois County an absolute gem of a place to live. 

First and foremost, the most important thing is the health of the community. If social distancing is what we need to do; do it. But as a business owner who needs people to come to his establishment, this is terrifying. I read that Coronavirus will bankrupt more people than it will kill: https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/coronavirus-deaths-trump-stock-market-pandemic-economy-bankrupt-italy-a9394891.html

We need you. Simple as that. I’m pledging to do what I can to support this community and our small businesses. 

So, PLEASE…tip better than you ever have before, the service industry relies on that for a large portion of their wage. Buy gift cards now so businesses can use the money as float to pay their employees and cover costs. Dine out while you can or place orders for takeout. Stock up on goods you can use later — but buy them locally. Ask the owners if there’s anything you can do to help — we always need help. Owners, be honest; our customers want the best for us, share your struggles and concerns, maybe someone has an idea to help. Volunteer in any way you can to help in any way you can. We are all in this together. 

Everyone will feel the impact. From restaurants to clothing stores to gas stations, it will be felt. It’s just a matter of when. 

There’s a lot of this we can’t control, but there’s a lot we can and we need to do our part.

Josh Premuda, Owner, Smalley Coffee, Co-Owner, Brew