Cheney Merchants Association head senses the struggle

CHENEY — Among the hats that Doug LaBar wears, along with that of owner of Mason Jar, is captain — well president — of the Cheney Merchants Association.

While LaBar has his finger directly on the pulse of his own business, he’s also observing from a distance, those in Cheney. While he offered no specifics, one can speculate based on Mason Jar’s performance.

If they mirror the challenges he’s faced, and many do, business is down. In LaBar’s case that number is 30%, which on the surface could be linked to a lack of student population.

However, LaBar said there’s a more significant metric and demographic that may be overlooked. The biggest part of the Eastern factor are professors, administrators and other staff who wield the bigger wallet.

“Students are more sporadic,” LaBar said. “The faculty are extremely loyal and have more time.” And naturally bigger wallets or larger credit/debit card room.

Even thoughmany instructors are still teaching remotely. “They’re staying at home, teaching from home or not going out and doing admin stuff at the campus, that’s actually much more detrimental,” LaBar explained.

With budget cuts both prior and including COVID, staff layoffs are also a big concern to LaBar. “They may never come back, that’s even scarier.”

The holidays will likely cut into discretional spending, too, especially with some no longer receiving enhanced unemployment benefits.

And while he faces daily challenges making Mason Jar work, LaBar and his crew have not forgotten those in some serious need.

Fueled by some grants and donations, LaBar has helped orchestrate support of the Cheney Giving Tree. Those wishing to help can swing by the Mason Jar, take a tag and help fill the need.

Previously they raised about $1,600 for grocery gift cards that were given out before Thanksgiving so that families had $100 to buy groceries. Other cash raised assisted with utility bills.

“As much as we’re trying to help our own business we’re also trying to be impactful in Cheney,” LaBar said. “I feel like as much as we might be struggling as a business, there’s still families struggling a lot worse.”

Because with a more healthy community, “That’s makes us able to survive,” LaBar said.

Paul Delaney is a retired former Free Press reporter and can be reached at [email protected].