By Kassandra Gutierrez,KFSN
Copyright abc30
SEQUOIA NATIONAL PARK (KFSN) — As the Federal Government prepares to go dark on Wednesday, the Sequoia National Forest and neighboring non-profits like Sequoia Parks Conservancy could be feeling those impacts.
“I am worried about my employees, they love what they do, but also we are all just trying to make a livable wage,” says Savannah Boiano, with the Sequoia Parks Conservancy.
The last shutdown lasted 35 days.
Foothill communities like Three Rivers depend on tourism in and out of the parks.
A government shutdown could mean less foot traffic, taking a toll on their sales.
“If the government shut down for a long time, the business and service that would get hurt big time,” says Tony Konnaris, Owner of Tony’s Taverna in Three Rivers.
The timing of the possible shutdown is right before Martiza and Tony’s grand opening of their new Greek restaurant.
Tony’s Taverna is set to welcome its first customers this Saturday afternoon.
“So, in terms of the effects that we would feel if the park well, if it closes it will affect us deeply. The business the economy,” expresses Maritza Konnaris.
The couple and other local businesses have been resilient through recent wildfires and flooding.
Loved ones and the community support are what keep them going and despite possible closures, they invite people to come out and visit the small town.
“It’s beautiful here in Three Rivers, you have the rivers and the creeks and hiking trails and, you know, a bike ride through the back… So, people need to understand this just is not just the park, it’s other activities they can do and enjoy the beautiful environment,” express Maritza and Tony.
Tony’s Taverna grand opening will happen this Saturday, starting at 2 p.m., government shut down or not and everyone is invited.
The government is scheduled to run out of money at 9 p.m. Tuesday here on the West Coast, if a deal on a spending plan isn’t reached.
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