A new way of doing business

The world has changed. The way one goes about daily life is so far from normal it is hardly recognizable. No handshakes or visits with friends or family. It feels like life may never return to normal. While there may seem no end in sight to this new way of life, things are slowly returning to normal.

It started with state parks on Monday, April 20, which have been opened for day use only. Following that, on Wednesday, April 29, doctors across the state were given the okay to perform elective surgeries and other medical procedures that were halted due to the virus. Finally, on Friday, April 24, retail locations that were deemed non-essential, were permitted to reopen with curbside service.

Indeed, this was a welcome announcement for those who own small businesses in Linden. Several small businesses made the decision to temporarily close due to the COVID-19 virus, opting to do business either online or not at all.

Jo Anna Hall Duncan, the owner of Olde 1852 Market Company, announced on April 2 a temporary closure with hopes of reopening soon.

After the announcement by Governor Abbott that non-essential retail businesses could open for curbside service, Duncan was blessed to be told that Kayla Williams, a family friend, would be offering to run the boutique, allowing Duncan to remain home, safe and healthy.

At least two retail shops have adjusted differently to the new way of life. Laura Littlejohn, the owner of Elegant Etching & Design, opted to close her shop to walk-in traffic and instead, take orders by phone and ship them to customers.

Carla Surratt, owner of Carla’s Flowers & Gifts also made the transition from walk-ins to call-in orders. This summer Surratt will be celebrating her 25th year of business.

Friday night, a storm tore through Linden, knocking down many trees, doing damage to shop windows, damaging roofs, and causing a city wide power outage through Saturday.

While businesses all around Linden were closed due to the damage and outage, many are planning to again reopen on Monday, April 27 for curb-side service. No doubt, all of the business owners are looking forward to opening Monday and getting back to their new normal.