CARES Act

$5,000 from CARES Act does what for local companies?

Story and photos by Gary Bégin

The CARES Act recently awarded a large group of local businesses from $2,500 - $5,000 to help them get through the COVID-19 pandemic. The Wenatchee Business Journal decided to survey some of the $5k recipients and get their take on exactly what the bailout money will be used for and how far into the future the money would last.

The vast majority of businesses in Chelan County that got the “gelt” were in service industries like hotel/motels, bars, restaurants, wineries, cideries, fitness studios, nail and hair salons, etc.

A Catholic school, a museum and a great myriad of businesses did receive money, but, unfortunately, only three companies out of 20 surveyed responded (See The Bottom Line) to how they would use the money and how the money actually helps their business. Kudos go to the following, with the hope more answers will be coming:

Former Chelan mayor Mike Cooney, owner of The Vogue – A Liquid Lounge on Woodin Avenue in Chelan said[GB1] , “First, the grant is timely and greatly appreciated! We will use the money to pay current bills (payroll & utilities). While we are open, our volume is not on par since the shutdown ... but the bills remain the same level. This grant will provide much needed help in the short term. Like other small businesses we need to make adjustments and hope for the best.” The Vogue can be reached by calling: 509-888-5282 or by Email: spikecooney@gmail.com.

“I haven’t received my grant money yet, however it will cover one month’s rent and utilities only. That is my plan,” said Alisa, Tastebuds owner/operator. Call (509) 88T-ASTE (888-2783) or Email: alisa@tastebudscoffeewine.com for more information.  (Alisa does not use her last name in business correspondence.)

The non-profit Three Lakes Golf Club in Malaga General Manager Robbie Hendrickson said, “We will use the 5K to pay for some equipment lease we have. Due to COVID-19 6 week shut down we had to put our equipment leases on deferment. This will definitely help our operations, being closed for six weeks right after opening has made our season a challenging one.” Hendrickson is a PGA member and Head Professional of Three Lakes Golf Club.

Robbie can be contacted by calling (509) 663-5448.

To send comments on how the CARES Act money has helped your company, email: gary@ncwmedia.net.