Libby Anderson serves coffee at Archive with a mask and safe distancing on June 17, 2020. (Cathy Cheney/Salem Reporter)
There’s a lot going on in business in Salem. To help keep you up to speed, the Salem Reporter is providing a semi-regular roundup of business-related items including new business openings, locations, grant opportunities and others.
To suggest an item, reach out to reporter Jake Thomas by email at [email protected].
IN COMPLIANCE. A lot of you have been complaining about businesses not enforcing the state’s mask mandate. But after inspectors with the Oregon Liquor Control Commission spot checked over 3,600 licensed businesses they found that more than 93% were in compliance with social distancing and face covering requirements.
According to an agency press release, most of the businesses caught out of compliance quickly fixed their practices and just 1% was referred to the Oregon Occupational Safety and Health Administration for possible enforcement action. In the Salem area, just nine businesses needed reminding about the new rules.
DIVINE OPENING: The public is invited to Divine Distiller’s grand opening on Saturday, Aug. 15, from 2 p.m. to 10 p.m. at its new location at 2475 25th St S.E.
After multiple moves, Divine Distillers, Salem’s only distillery, will be settling into its new location with live music, cocktails, a taco truck and plenty of room for social distancing. Founded in 2018, the distiller specializes in brandy made from local fruits, agave spirit, and unique rums.
JOBSEEKER GRANTS: Residents of Marion and Yamhill counties who’ve lost their jobs because of the pandemic may qualify for grants of up to $900 as they move to a new job.
The money can be used for certifications in high-demand jobs, such as project management, public health, IT specialization and construction management. It can also be used for community college classes, GED, adult basic education, child care or other expenses.
The money comes from the U.S. Department of Labor and the Willamette Workforce Partnership.
To find out more, call 800-974-4054 or email [email protected].
NEW INSURANCE OFFICE: Insurance company GEICO has opened a new office in Salem at 2825 Commercial St. S.E. Suite 100. Joel Lewis will lead the team of licensed agents who will sell the company’s insurance covering renters, homeowners, ATVs, motorcycles, cars and others. The office includes bilingual insurance agents. For more info, call 503-385-4323.
