b'FOGHORN FOCUSCHALLENGESof Operating inTUMULTUOUS TIMESBY KAREN RAINBOLT // FOGHORN MANAGING EDITORA ndrewSargis,ChiefofOperationsofChicagoWaterTaxi operated by Wendella Sightseeing Boats in Chicago, IL, shocked his peers when he announced in late August during a PVA Emerging Leaders Committee virtual gathering that COVID-19 was not the biggest threat to his operation. Instead, he cited continued civil unrest in the Windy City as a major issue that has impacted the operation that has been in business for more than 80 years. COVID-19 is difficult, but we can somewhat control the situation by mandating face masks, social distancing, and rigorous cleaning and sanitizing, Sargis said in August. But we have no control whatsoever regarding the civil unrest so its a challenge to operate, Sargis said at the time. Our employees are concerned and weve had to cancel several cruises due to the social unrest that is rocking Chicago.Soon after the death of George Floyd by police officers on May 25 in Minnesota, protesters in Chicagoand around the worldtook to the streets. Sargis said most of the protesters were nonviolent and simplyPeople arent just wanted to spread their message of justice and call for an end to systemic racism. But, some of the protests turned dangerous and that deeplywatching how you impacted Wendella, which operates sightseeing cruises in downtown Chicago.respond, but also Sargis explained that for weeks, no one was sure if a peaceful march would turn violent, which made it difficult for the businesses in the areahow long it takes you to prepare. For Wendella, preparation included ensuring the safety of its customers and employees.to speak out about It was incredibly tense, Sargis said recently recalling the summers events. The National Guard was called in, there was widespread lootingracial injusticein some areas, and spiking crime rates. FOGHORN FOCUS 10 FOGHORN'