Small Latino Entrepreneurs Happy to Get Started, Even With Restrictions Imposed
Gualterio Santos, an undocumented immigrant, was looking forward to the reopening of Santos Flowers, his florist that had to close to comply with the restrictions imposed by the coronarivus pandemic.
"The truth is that I am very happy because more than 20 families depend on this business ”, He says.
The flower dealer will open this Friday, May 8, in compliance with the relaxation of the Stay at Home order, issued by the Governor of California, Gavin Newsom, which authorizes, under certain conditions, the opening of florists, toy stores, bookstores, music stores, clothing and sports products; as well as car sales showrooms.
The main condition for them to operate is that they deliver the purchases to a designated place at the exit of the store, but also that they comply with the healthy distance, and the use of masks.
Newsom issued the Stay at Home order on March 19. “The truth did affect me a lot. I had a lot of financial losses because I had a lot of product that I couldn't sell. In addition, he had to pay the rents for the premises, the cost of insurance and other expenses, "says Gualterio.
He trusts that although he could send flowers, sales fell by 60-70%. “I didn't even go out to pay the employees. As we could, we held on. Therefore, due to my status, I do not qualify for any type of financial relief. ”
Although he will be able to open attached to many requirements, Walter is very happy. “We are going to do it, respecting the rules. We even have masks for those who do not bring ”, he says enthusiastically. "It is time to reactivate the economy," he says.
In the city of Los Angeles, Mayor Eric Garcetti explains that the business reopening process will be gradual.
On Saturday, May 9, Angelenos can return to golf courses, parks, and trails with the exception of Runyon Canyon, which will remain closed. Facemasks will be required on trails and golf courses.
Joshua Montalvo, owner of a flower and giant teddy bear business; and a musical instruments store in South Los Angeles, there was no excitement, because after weeks of being closed and with no income, it will finally be able to open.
"My mom and I already started making flower arrangements to have them ready for reopening," he says.
Joshua remembers that the first weeks he refused to close, and he did well selling guitars, but then he began to feel many critical glances and even racism. So he better decided to close and go with his family to an Indian reservation in Northern California.
“It bothered me a lot that the liquor stores never closed. It was very unfair, "he says.
As time went by without being able to generate income, he began to be distressed because ten people depend on his businesses.
"We have no savings, and I was concerned about losing the 30-year effort put into our stores," he acknowledges.
So when he found out that they gave the order to open, even with certain limitations, the truth is that – he says – he breathed easy. “It is a great relief. We appreciate it very much. Thank God!".
At the same time that Governor Newsom announced the reopening of some businesses, he revealed that the state has a budget deficit of $ 53.4 billion as a result of the pandemic.. Ironically, California had a year ago, $ 21 billion in surplus.
Mayor Garcetti praised the Angelenos for supporting the Stay at Home order, but asked not to let his guard down, and not to saturate the trails and parks because the danger has not yet passed.
“I am very proud of the way the Angelenos have responded. They have stayed at home, changed their routines, helped their children learn from a distance, have postponed their family gatherings and virtually celebrated their holidays. The essential workers have gone above and beyond to serve us. ”
And he clarifies that the road that awaits us is still long, because the truth is that COVID-19 will not be leaving soon. "But there is no doubt that his actions have saved lives," he said in announcing the modifications to the Stay at Home order.
