Page 12 - BusinessWest December 21, 2020

Editorial
WMore Business Dreams Are Dying
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hile the arrival of vaccines is fostering some optimism this crisis in sight, Divine and Kruta had to let their dream die. across this country and we’re hearing phrases like As we all prepare to turn the calendar to 2021, many businesses ‘beginning of the end’ (for the pandemic) and ‘light are some state of peril — and many more dreams may have to die.
at the end of the tunnel,’ the sad fact is that relief won’t come If there is a lockdown or further restrictions, as many fear is possi-
soon enough for some businesses in this region.
The latest victim of the COVID-19 crisis is Gateway City Arts in
Holyoke. Owners Lori Divine and Vitek Kruta announced they can longer continue operating their cultural-arts center, which had become such a critical part of Holyoke’s resurgence, and will now attempt to sell the complex.
Their message to the community sums up the plight of so many businesses in this region and the frustration that has accompanied the restrictions, shutdowns, and general lack of support from state and federal officials.
“We have reached the point where we just don’t have the resources and energy to try to survive,” they wrote, echoing the sentiments of many who have been trying, unsuccessfully, to hang on. “It took us 10 years to start feeling that we could make it, and then COVID took it all away.”
The two went on to talk about life just before they were forced to close their doors. There was a sold-out concert with more than 500 people in the Hub (and an impressive upcoming slate of big-name artists), a theater production with more than 100 people, and a full house in Judd’s restaurant. And in the veritable blink of an eye, it was all gone.
Like most small businesses in this region, Gateway City Arts received a PPP loan last spring. It was intended to provide eight
to 10 weeks of support and keep people paid — and that’s exactly what it did. The problem, as everyone knows, is that the pandemic has lasted far longer than a few months. No further relief, other than a GoFundMe campaign, was forthcoming, and with no end to
Opinion
ble, if not imminent — or even if the status quo continues — many more small businesses will be forced to close their doors.
Yes, the vaccines are coming, and yes, there just might be some light at the end of this incredibly long, exceedingly dark tunnel. But for many, it won’t come soon enough. As this issue was going to press, Congress was making some progress toward a new stimulus package, one we have to hope will include some relief to embattled small businesses.
But these companies need more than that. As we’ve written on many occasions, they need the support of the community, in any way it can come, to get through this.
We were encouraged to see that a number of businesses were stepping up during the holidays to help. Indeed, instead of sending the traditional gift basket or tray of cookies to an office where few
if any people are working anyway, some businesses have sent gift certificates or even small, pre-paid credit cards, with instructions to use them to support local businesses.
Likewise, instead of having that holiday party at a local venue, some businesses are instead giving employees gift certificates for local restaurants, a step that shows appreciation not only for valued workers, but for the local eateries that have been devastated by this pandemic.
It’s unlikely that such steps would have saved Gateway City Arts, a intriguing, potential-laden business that was just hitting its stride when the rug was pulled out from under it. Unless the region rallies around the still-surviving small businesses, other dreams may die as well. v
Coping with Loss During the Holidays
TBy Stuart Anfang, M.D.
he holidays are supposed to be
‘the most wonderful time of the
year,’ as one song notes. But for some, it may be the most difficult time of the year after the loss of a loved one.
The holiday season can be especially difficult for those who are preparing to spend these joyous occasions for the first time without a spouse, child, or other beloved family member or friend by their side. These feelings of grief are only exac- erbated this year by COVID-19, which has taken the lives of so many, plus the general stress of dealing with the pandemic.
It’s only natural to experience a range of emotions such as sadness, loneliness, and even helplessness and hopelessness while navigating the hustle and bustle of the holidays. But you don’t have to suffer alone. Recognize that you are not alone, and that mixed or sad feelings during the holidays are not uncommon. Do not suffer in silence, and watch for the tendency to isolate or withdraw from others. Denying or bottling up your feelings — or self-med- icating with alcohol or drugs — are worri- some signs.
As you prepare for the holidays, include
activities that are important to you and your family. Share the load and accept offers of help. If some activities are too dif- ficult or draining, set limits or decide to drop them. Remember, it’s OK and not a sign of weakness to ask for help.
It is always important to remember that you have options. You can change routines. Modify past traditions or join your fam-
ily in creating new traditions. If you wish, you can find a way of formally remember- ing your loved one who is not physically present with you — for example, serving their favorite dessert and reflecting on the joy that it brought to your loved one in the past. It is stressful to experience the holiday without your loved one, but you can find ways to honor and include them.
Together, you can share a holiday that is different, but still meaningful and hope- ful. As a family, you can add a memory ritual into your holiday by including a spe- cial activity such as looking at old photo albums or making and displaying a special holiday decoration with significant ties to the deceased. Given the current COVID-19 circumstances, make sure to follow public- health recommendations about masking,
social distancing, and gathering in limited numbers.
Many people also find solace in gener- osity, as this is the ‘season of giving.’ Many people also volunteer during the holidays, such as serving meals at a local shelter or distributing toys to needy children.
For some, the holidays may offer a reprieve from sad feelings, and you may find yourself caught up in the moment
as you experience the joy of family and friends around you. But if you are notic- ing more significant symptoms causing impairment at work, school, or home — problems with sleep, low energy, dramatic change in appetite or weight, inability to concentrate, frequent crying, easy irritabil- ity, thoughts of hurting yourself, or wanting to die — that may be time to seek some professional evaluation. A good place to start can be your primary-care provider or a trusted clergy.
The bottom line is, help is available. Do not suffer in silence. v
Dr. Stuart Anfang is vice chair of Psychiatry at Baystate Health.
12 DECEMBER 21, 2020
OPINION
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