Small Business Week 2021: Celebrate Your Resilience

Small Business Week 2021: Celebrate Your Resilience

Michelle Pinon - News Advertiser

Every year one week is set aside to pay honour and pay tribute to small businesses.

This past year has probably been one of the most challenging for small business owners who’ve had to adapt to the ever changing, mandatory COVID-19 pandemic health restrictions that often have to be implemented within days of being announced by the provincial government.

Jesse Kozicky and Renita Senz in front of their shop The Golden Gopher in Derwent.

(Michelle Pinon/Photo)

It has taken a great deal of perseverance and ingenuity for businesses to not only pivot, but reshape their future in a time of ongoing uncertainty. Many small businesses have developed innovative ways to readjust and adapt to consumer demands while staying connected to custom ers by increasing their online presence and services.

Fortunately, the arrival of spring and the desire of many people to get out and explore different communities and all they have to offer is good news for small business owners.

Foothills ice cream is a guaranteed favourite for customers who enjoy a good old fashioned milkshake or sundae.

(April Savadra/Submitted Photo)

One of those small businesses is The Golden Gopher in Derwent where Renita Senz provides tattoo services and Jesse Kozicky is the chef and café manager. They held their grand reopening May 1 and said it was a busy day for them.

With dine in service not being an option at the moment they can offer takeout and curbside service and hope to start a carhop service by June.

Whether you’re wanting decadent ice cream, fresh baked goods or a wholesome home cooked meal, they can fit the bill. The Monster Clubhouse is their signature dish which is extremely popular with customers.

They also have artwork for sale, charcuterie boards, and other handcrafted items for customers to choose from.

The business opened in 2016. The abandoned building was formerly known as Dobransky’s Confectionary store. It has been completely renovated from top to bottom and has a quaint and unique charm all its own.