We're all in this together. Arabella Breck just wrote a great article about how Coronavirus is affecting Chicago's vegan scene. She interviewed a lot of us so it's a good overview of everyone from newer restaurants like Upton's Breakroom and older places like ours. If you have a choice and the means, please consider supporting our local places whenever possible. Some of us are hoping gift card sales pick up while others are relying solely on delivery and carryout. Take a read through her article and please share it on your own social media. Another article, this one from Eater, focuses on the farmers and food service companies that supply restaurants. (Trigger warning—not a vegan article.) This economic downturn has caused many cancelations or change-orders. And some of these companies have started setting up to sell direct to the public. For example, locally owned Chicago Vegan Foods is now offering their restaurant-sized bags of Dandie's marshmallows for direct purchase via their website. "We're trying to be in the business of boosting morale," as stated on their Facebook page. If you've ever had our own Chicago Diner S'mores Brownie Sundae with Dandie's marshmallows, you know what a morale boosting treat they are. Unfortunately, we can't delivery ice cream desserts at this time but we can recommend that you check out buying your own restaurant-sized bag of marshmallows as a treat for the kids.
And don't forget the farmers left in the lurch by closure of some farmer's markets. Many are starting to pivot to CSA models but they lack the years of preparation and audience building. Please check your favorite markets' and vendors' websites for information on how you can continue to buy fresh produce directly from your favorite sources.
And please spread the love by promoting and sharing small business links on your own social media. Every little bit helps. Now more than ever, if it weren't for you, we really wouldn't be here. Thanks so much for all your support. — Mickey, Jo, Michael and the crew. | 
