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Peoria Businesses Seek To Connect To The Community

Bearded Owl Brewing
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Illinoisans have been ordered to "stay at home" to slow the spread of COVID-19. But some Peoria businesses are still finding ways to connect with the community and serve their customers.

Mary Beth Nebel owns I Know You Like a Book in Peoria Heights. Her store is closed, but they’re still making accommodations for customers on a case-by-case basis. She said she "will be checking for phone messages and if we can make appointments, or even deliver books, we will do so."

Meanwhile, from downtown Peoria, Soulside Healing Arts has launched a series of virtual classes focusing on yoga and meditation. Owner Hannah Ramlo says instructors have skills they want to share with others, and hosting pay-what-you-can classes online will make the service accessible to more people.

"Desperate times call for growth and creativity," Ramlo said.

There are currently more than ten videos available, and she said more are coming. Ramlo said even though Soulside Healing Arts is now competing with a national market online, she believes Peoria residents will choose to continue to support their local businesses.

Other Peoria businesses considered "essential" under Gov. JB Pritzker's "shelter in place" order are staying open.

Rich Pestien, owner of Bushwacker at Junction City, said commuting cyclists are still relying on his store for bike repairs.

Local breweries and liquor stores as also continuing to sell to customers. Bearded Owl Brewing in the Warehouse District is offering curbside pickup of crowlers and bottles.

UFS Downtown Outlet Center is also doing curbside pick up and delivery for beer, wine, and spirits. The store is open to customers for hardware needs and groceries; and they’re also increasing their inventory of groceries to go beyond their usual supply of snack food.

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Copyright 2021 WCBU. To see more, visit WCBU.

Daniel joined WCBU with eight years of experience in public radio, primarily in operations and engineering.