Shawn Donahue
COPING
with COVID-19 by Bob Casazza
Every business is essential and contributes to the quality of life throughout the area. While not every business has survived the pandemic-driven economic downturn, there is a great deal of optimism in the community and much of that is a result of the drive and resiliency of business owners. The owners of Kilmarnock Inn, Chesapeake Doughnut Company, Dandelion, and BodyFit each took different approaches when coping with COVID-19 but their experiences share a deep-seated commitment to community.
everyone’s spirits,” said Shawn. “People are ready to get back to normal and there are better days ahead!” Something good can happen even during the worst of times. Gabe del Rio and Jeff Ewing were busy opening their Chesapeake Doughnut Company in White Stone when COVID-19 began. “Things were pretty scary,” said Gabe. “We had just signed our store lease, the business loans were approved, and everything was a go. To be safe, we delayed things and moved our grand opening to June. We started selling from a doughnut cart in our parking lot and gradually opened inside,” he explained.
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hen COVID hit, business at the Kilmarnock Inn dropped 60% and is just now coming back. In the beginning, owner Shawn Donahue cut his payroll staff of 20 down to just 4 people. “We survived the worst of the pandemic, because the local community was always there for me,” said Shawn. “Friends, neighbors, and other businesses kept sending customer referrals for our restaurant and rooms … That really kept us going,” explained Shawn. “We also had an on-going group of ER doctors from Bon Secours Rappahannock General Hospital staying with us. They came from out-of-state to help with the patient needs at the hospital.” Shawn’s creative thinking has always served him well. In February, he put together a special Valentine’s Weekend package with a choice of rooms, dinner, and breakfast for just $199. It sold out within days and most of his guests being local couples. “I’m also thinking of doing a special ‘Christmas in July’ theme at the Inn,” smiled Shawn. “I’ll decorate the place with lights, Santa, and a big Christmas tree! We should also bring back our Christmas parade too. That will lift
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Visitors & Business Guide to Lancaster County
Gabe del Rio (left) and Jeff Ewing
Gabe grew up near Irvington and graduated from Lancaster High School. After 20 years in California and a rewarding career in financial development, he and his partner Jeff found their way back to the area. Both bring a unique set of professional skills and personal commitment to our community. “I’ve always wanted to return to the Northern Neck. There’s a lifestyle and beauty here I truly appreciate,” Gabe said. “Who doesn’t want to live in a place where there’s more trees than people?”
