Changes: Five Rings Martial Arts and Central Waters Brewing
By Taylor J. Hale
Staff Writer
STEVENS POINT – Weeks after Governor Tony Evers shut down much of the state’s commerce to help prevent the spread of the COVID-19 virus, local businesses are adapting in the way they offer products and services. See how local businesses in Portage County are staying connected with their clients and customers during these times.
Five Rings Martial Arts
Five Rings cancelled all in-person classes on March 15. Owner and instructor Steve Decker began offering his classes online through streaming platforms shortly after but noted things haven’t been easy.
“Going from teaching in front of people to doing everything online has been tough,” Decker said. Five Rings currently uses Zoom to host its classes.
Decker said the platform offers him a way to still see and connect with his students.
“It certainly wasn’t fun for the kids to tune in and watch a prerecorded thing with no interaction,” Decker explained. “So, this does help.”
Five Rings is still accepting new memberships. Classes are held nightly, with a focus on different age groups each night. Students can participate in any age group session.
To learn more, visit http://fiveringsma.weebly.com.
Central Waters Brewing
Vice President of Central Waters Anello Mollica told the Gazette that the award-winning brewery was struck hard by the COVID-19 shutdowns.
“The shutdown impacts a large piece of our business,” Mollica said. “With all of the bars and restaurants being closed, they account for nearly 50 percent of our business, so orders are reduced, and we are brewing less. Our onsite taproom is also closed, we are open for to-go orders only. We will also have to address the expiration of beer already packaged in kegs, as beer is a perishable item.”
The brewery closed its door to the public immediately following the state’s notice, but the facilities are still producing beer.
“We are still making beer, just at a very reduced capacity,” Mollica said. “Our only outlet right now is at off-premise locations: liquor stores, grocery stores, gas stations.”
The team has taken to Facebook and social media to let their customers know about their products and tap house changes. Mollica sees now as a crucial time to support local businesses.