By PHYLLIS ZORN

Staff writer

Some businesses are still doing well despite financial ramifications of COVID-19 fears and the governor’s stay-home order. But some are struggling to stay open and have let employees go.

El Lorito Mexican restaurant in Hillsboro, for example, is holding up fairly well, co-owner Guadalupe Sosme said.

“We’re just taking it day-by-day because that seems to be how things are changing, but we’ve adapted pretty well,” she said. “Last Saturday we had about 20 orders in less than an hour and a half, and some of those were pretty big orders. But it helped us figure out what we needed to do a little differently for the times there is a high volume in a small amount of time. But the community has still been very supportive.”

Western Associates in Marion laid off 25 people after revenues dropped from $50,000 a week to $5,000 a week.

Owner David Crofoot said the company will apply for a small business loan available as part of a federal stimulus package.

Dorothy’s Coffee House and Tea Room in Marion closed after owners tried serving carry-out only and revenue dropped to just $100 a day.

The Elgin Hotel remains open but is getting cancelations daily, owner Tammy Ensey said.

“I have one guest coming in this weekend,” she said.

Ensey said the statewide stay-home order meant most of her reservations have been forced to cancel, and the hotel has had to lay off employees

“It’s pretty bleak,” Ensey said. “I’m trying to keep my head up and smiling. I’m just focused on getting ready to open back up with a bang.”

Ensey has applied for a mixture of grants and loans through the state and federal sources. She encourages other small businesses to do the same.

“I want everyone to be able to survive this,” she said.

Greg Carlson, owner of Subway sandwich shop in Marion, said the restaurant lost too much business after the lobby was closed for dining. Last Monday Subway closed.

Carlsons’ grocery is still going well, he said.

“We appreciate the support,” Carlson said.