Hello hydronauts,
We said before that we’d be closed through the end of March and then re-assess. It’s the end of March and the time has arrived! Surprising no-one (I hope), in the wake of this continuing pandemic, we’re going to remain closed for the foreseeable future. If you’d like to do something to help us, you can buy a gift card for later use. We’ve cut our gift card prices to absolutely bananas levels as a thank-you. (Of course you can use gift cards for yourself; I strongly approve of gifts for Future You.) Make sure you go to the gift card page linked above to get the special price, as our “Store” page has our usual prices.
Some of you have asked about our intentions in the wake of Inman Oasis announcing their (perhaps) more permanent closure. First of all, we are massive fans of Inman Oasis, Jo & Jenny, all the staff, and that beautiful wooden community tub, and we’re heartbroken to hear the news. For those who are worried that as sort-of similar businesses, we may be considering a similar move, I want to reassure you that we’re dug in for the long haul. I don’t pretend to know what the future will bring, but IO are dealing with two particular factors: 1) their lease was up (business leases are different from residential leases and often more contentious), and 2) a major aspect of their business does not play well with physical distancing: massage and the community tub. (source: the letter they sent to their clients, a group that includes me.) I very much hope that Inman Oasis is able to re-emerge like a phoenix after all this is over, stronger than ever.
Meanwhile, we are pursuing everything we can to freeze in place for as long as required. New unemployment insurance rules meant our staff didn’t have to be laid off, and we’re hoping to get some CARES Act relief. When we get to the other side of this, floating and the peace it brings will be needed more than ever.
So that’s where we stand. On a related topic, I have been absolutely floored by the outpouring of kindness toward us. Several insisted we continue their memberships *without* the special perks we offered; one bright soul read our last update and immediately bought a Make-A-Change package of nine floats. Dimitra at Daddy Jones has been a beacon of support. (Do you know someone who needs food? Let her know here at Restaurants Feed Somerville Families.) I had no expectation of any this, and I’m deeply affected. I barely have the words to express my gratitude. As Mr. Rogers famously said, “Look for the helpers,” and I’m seeing so many helpers in my community. You people are amazing.
Stay salty,
Sara