Cancellations have become a fairly routine event in the last several months. For example, in Van Wert, which has become a hotbed of entertainment options over the years, the Van Wert Performing Arts Foundation announced it will be canceling and issuing refunds for all of its upcoming programming due to the restrictions resulting from COVID-19. 

Requests for refunds may take up to two weeks to process, but ticketholders are asked to consider that ticket price a donation in lieu of refund. 

Along those lines, the VWPAF suggested this in their press release.

“Patrons also have an opportunity to help in saving stages across America,” the press release said. “The final push to Congress is happening now and there will not be another opportunity. If The #SaveOurStagesAct and the #RestartAct pass, it will keep independent venues nationwide from closing permanently. Patrons can help us #SaveOurStages now at saveourstages.com. Every voice matters as this is a time to share with our legislators to save independent music venues.”

Arts organizations and venues are struggling tremendously at this time and appreciate the support of patrons who enjoy their offerings.

Our friends at the Firefly Coffee House have also had a rough few months as is the case with many area eateries which saw business stop with the lockdown in March. Even as the state continues to reopen, many local establishments are struggling to stay afloat with distancing restrictions, and the Firefly’s cozy environs are not part of that equation at the moment. 

An outdoor tent has been set up to meet the demand of the Firefly faithful. Cyndi Demeree, who owns the Firefly with her husband Paul, promises that they plan to take the tent into the colder seasons as well.

“We are doing live music on the weekends in our tent and our patio garden is blooming and flourishing,” Cyndi said. “Paul put in a misting system on the flowers in the front window. It creates a refreshing respite from the heat when the wind blows. Our plexiglass partition inside around the bar is a work of art to admire while waiting in line. We plan to put up sides on the tent and heat that area for the winter.”

Now more than ever it’s important to support our local businesses and arts community so that we can continue to enjoy them in the years to come.