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Innkeepers give back: Aldrich Guest House runs promotion for free nights for frontline workers

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GALENA–From the time the last guest checked out on March 20 through most of May, the Aldrich Guest House in Galena was a quiet place. There was lots of time for thinking and planning.

Innkeepers Robert and Douglas Mahan had lots of time to think of ways to give back to the community. In particular, they wanted to focus on those essential workers who continue to put themselves at risk to serve others.

In May, the Mahans launched a “Give Back” promotion. The promotion runs until June 16.

For every new reservation made until June 16 for any time in 2020, the Mahans will give one free night to front-line workers in the community, those who work at grocery stores, the trash collectors, medical staff, mail carriers, law enforcement, fire, EMS and others. They’ll give up to 25 free nights.

With 50 years in the hospitality industry between the two of them, they recognize how meaningful it is when people say “thank you.” The Give Back promotion is their way of saying just that to those who continue to step up in the midst of a pandemic.

“We thought it would be a nice way to give back to the local community,” said Douglas.

Through newsletters, the Mahans promoted the deal and found guests very responsive. Besides giving back, they saw the promotion as a way to draw guests back to Galena after weeks of being shut down. They’re excited for the community to rebound. They’re happy to help others be part of “paying it forward.”

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Robert said that June and July still look slow for their business, but they’re hopeful that word will spread about all the great opportunities the community offers for outdoor activities, where social distancing is possible.

“We’re going to be able to stay afloat,” said Robert.

Because Galena is in close proximity to larger urban areas, road trips here are very possible, Douglas noted, adding that fact sets Galena up for success.

“I think it will come back,” said Robert. “Hopefully the worst is behind us.”

The Mahans were prepared with a rainy day fund, but there was no way to prepare for a rainy day that lasted three months, they said. Like others, they believe the rebound will be measured in years.

They’ve learned through industry webinars and conversations that even some of those whose income has been impacted negatively by the pandemic are still planning to travel. Surveys show that the desire to travel is extremely strong.

“There is a lot of pent-up desire to get away,” said Robert, noting they are taking extra precautions to ensure the safety of their guests.

For those interested in the Give Back promotion, enter Give Back in the notes when making a reservation at aldrichguesthouse.com or call 815-777-3323.