Co-founder Chris Dimmick admits it was a blow. But, he said: “We’re making lemonade.”
When bars are allowed to start serving again, “We’ll definitely have a grand re-opening celebration,” Dimmick said. “We’ve had a lot of practice in the last couple of weeks. We’ll be able to turn it back on when we’re ready to.”
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In the meantime, Dimmick said his focus is on keeping his staff financially stable. Tender Mercy is selling gift cards that will receive a 19 percent boost in value (a $100 gift card will have a value of $119 when redeemed).
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The gift cards are available to individuals or corporate entities that could hold a future event at the bar. Proceeds from the sales of gift cards will “directly subsidize our work family,” Dimmick said. Gift cards up to $500 are available on Tender Mercy’s web site, and larger amounts can be processed via email at mercy@tendermercy.com.
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Tender Mercy employees who put in hours at local food banks and other non-profit organizations are getting paid to do so by the bar, the Tender Mercy co-founder said.
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The bar’s owners also are gearing up to launch a line of merchandise to support the staff, Dimmick said.
“We have about 24 employees total, and we will keep all 24,” he said.
Starting today, March 20, Tender Mercy will have beer and wine available for online order, with curbside pickups every Friday from 4 to 7 p.m. and Saturday 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Dimmick said.
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