In Rota, KUAM News sat down with a local business owner of an iconic restaurant that is striving to stay afloat during COVID-19.

“We decided to take a leap and stay open," expressed Jackie Manglona, operations manager for Pizzaria Bar and Grill. The company has opened its doors to the island's Rota residents for nearly two decades. COVID-19 has put the business at risk.

“The kitchen staff had to take on more responsibilities, including answers phones, taking payments, and serving the customers their takeout," Manglona said.

With dine-in now allowed, they’ve also created a new website and are shifting their services online for the first time. She saidthey’re at full capacity after rehiring three furloughed staff, making up their seven-member team.

“We have had to collaborate with our staff on what we could do to bring in more local resident business and cater to the local residents. We came up with promotions," she said.

The change comes as she and her fiancé moved back to Rota after 21 Years at the start of the pandemic, but they’re not giving up.

"We want to continue to serve our island and that is why it is important," Manglona said. "It is one of the few places that was able to remain open so we want to continue to serve our people.”

Long-term local businesses like Pizzeria continue to persist throughout the pandemic.