CBS News is chronicling what has changed for the lives of Americans in 2020 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

The COVID shutdown was a devastating way to start the year for many Colorado businesses reliant on tourism.

International travel was blocked, locals stayed home, and employees were difficult to maintain — especially when federal unemployment paid more than hourly wages  for many.

But now, many business owners feel they’ve survived the worst and are looking forward to winter.

Dustin Dyer, co-owner of Kent Mountain Adventure Center (KMAC) in Estes Park, said business this spring and summer was better than he expected, despite COVID, though still down 30-40% compared to past years.

Dyer said one enduring effect of the pandemic has been difficulty hiring staff, which has put a strain on employees.

“We’re kind of working with this skeleton crew,” he said.

Dyer’s employees are responsible for customer …continued .
[Source: CBS News]