Local Businesses are Hurting, Here’s How to Help Safely
(Crystal A. Proxmire, March 15, 2020)
Ferndale, Holly, MI – The best way to slow the spread of the COVID-19 Coronavirus is to avoid human contact, especially large gatherings. However, the increase in people staying home is also impacting local businesses – particularly independent retailers, service providers, and restaurants.
But there are ways you can have a good meal or enjoy shopping while decreasing the risk of spreading infection.
SHOP ONLINE
Plenty of local shops have online shopping options, and this could be the difference between sinking and swimming for some brick and mortar retailers. Modern Natural Baby has plenty of options to keep your young ones happy and engaged, or to ship a gift to a friend who may be struggling with their unexpected time home. Board games are a great way to spend quality, educational, time together. MNB also has books, environmentally friendly and kid-safe toys and activities. There is even a large selection of kid-sized musical instruments if you’d like to help share the skills of persistence and patience with your young ones. Or just go with a super soft and cuddly stuffed animal to help make staying home special. Shop at www.modernnaturalbaby.com. They also have curbside delivery!
A beautiful bouquet is a great way to cheer up a lonely friend, especially those who are sick or in places that are limiting visitors. Check out their selection of bouquets at www.Blumz.com.
Another great place to buy online is Candle Wick Shoppe. You can make sure your house smells great. Plus there are not only an array of scents, there is the magic that comes with items that help you set intentions. Invoke a “home blessing,” call on your “guardian protector,” or set intention for “tranquility” with Coventry Creations candles. Read up on a variety of mystical topics from their book section. Or conjure up your inner witch with items from the Witches Union section, all while helping a family-owned business stay strong. Shop online at www.CandleWickShoppe.com.
The Rust Belt Market closed their doors this weekend due to the restrictions on crowds over 100 people, and a desire to keep people safe. That means no sales for the 40+ vendors who call Rust Belt Home, and no rent coming in for the owners. Future weekends are likely at stake as well. But many of the vendors – including Detroit GT, Blooms and Baubles, Transient Craft, Painted Lady Trashions and others – have websites and ways to order online or to contact them directly. Check out the full list with links at www.rustbeltmarket.com/shops.
BOOK EVENTS FOR FUTURE DATES
Event venues such as The Holly Vault, The Rust Belt Market, Go Comedy, and The Holly Hotel have seen cancellations due to Coronavirus concerns. As you daydream of future gatherings, consider browsing their websites for info and booking availability.
GET IT TO GO/GIFT CERTIFICATES
Restaurants throughout Oakland County have been mandated to reduce occupancy limits by 50%, and to space tables out by at least six feet to provide a buffer between groups of guests. Many are supporting local restaurants by getting items to go, reducing the amount of contact. And others are advocating for gift cards and gift certificates that can help with immediate cash flow needs as business is slow.
In Ferndale for those who want to support local businesses that support local journalism, check out Howe’s Bayou, Dino’s Lounge, Rosie O’Grady’s, Pop’s for Italian, Detroit Fleat, M-Brew, One-Eyed Betty’s, Chazzano Coffee Roasters, or White Castle. In Holly it’s The Holly Hotel and Andy’s Place that help bring you the news here at Oakland County Times.
You can also get gift certificates for service businesses such as Essential Massage Therapy in Downtown Ferndale.
OTHER BUSINESSES TO SUPPORT
As far as we know, our other business sponsors are still working hard to serve their customers. We wish continued success to Judy Palmer of ReMAX Showcase Homes, Jim Shaffer of Keller Williams, and Derrek Werenka of M-1 Realty. Robertson Brothers Homes has new homes and townhomes in several cities throughout Oakland County, and those looking to rent can find some unique apartment options at a selection of Urbane locations.
For those who don’t have a will, a medical power of attorney, or many other legal needs related to real estate law, estate planning, guardianship, probate and more, visit the Galloway and Collens, PLLC website.
For in person retail options, in addition to those mentioned above, there’s also Creative Fashions and Holly Antiques. If you get the other kind virus – the kind that gets computers, or you have other technology needs, there’s C!Tech Solutions in Ferndale. If you need a new roof, there’s Dale at LakePointe Construction, and if you’re braving the grocery stores you may be able to snag some items from Clean Planet Foods. J & D Auto in Oak Park is still there and ready to help with car repairs and maintenance.
UNDERSTANDING PREVENTION
Prevention tips include:
Washing your hands often with soap and warm water for 20 seconds, and help young children do the same. If soap and water are not available, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer with at least 60 percent alcohol.
Covering your nose and mouth with a tissue when you cough or sneeze, or cough/sneeze in your upper sleeve. Immediately throw away used tissues in the trash, then wash hands.
Avoiding touching your eyes, nose, and mouth with unwashed hands.
Staying home when sick except to get medical care.
Avoiding close contact, sharing cups, or sharing eating utensils.
Cleaning and disinfecting frequently touched surfaces, such as toys and doorknobs.
Practicing good health habits. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage your stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food.
Information around this outbreak is changing rapidly. The latest information is available at Michigan.gov/Coronavirus and CDC.gov/Coronavirus.