Businesses that were forced to close during the COVID-19 crisis from March to early May are definitely deserving of some assistance. In Dunkirk a number of businesses were recipients of a portion of $190,000 that was distributed by the city’s Planning and Development Department in federal CARES Act funding.

Some of these businesses have been in operation for years while others began right before COVID-19 hit our country. The list includes: Jim’s Cleaners, Crino Music, CL Specialties, The Fillmore, Central Station Restaurant, Dr. Richard Prechtl DDS, Inner Balance Day Spa, Cuevas DK, Spike Dailey’s, G&E Tents, Lazer City, Flowers by Anthony, Jennifer F. Foley DDS, AAL in Transport, Water’s Edge Gifts, McKenna Academy of Dance, Jossie’s Barbershop, Beach House Grill.

Also, Herbs for Life, Rookies on the Lake, Shorty’s Kitchen, Matt’s News, The Studio Hair, Alma Latina, Robert Zimmer DVM, Lakeshore Grill Works, Bart’s Cove, Service Hardware and Taqueria Mexicana.

Our economy — and important establishments — are still recovering from the current pandemic. We need to continue to support these shops while staying safe.