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A drop in air travel throughout the country had, and continues to have, an impact on small businesses connected to it.
But To My Surprise Shuttle officials are adjusting. The small business staff is exploring, and actually participating in, other options to keep the shuttles rolling, according to Tom Parisi, managing partner.
“To My Surprise shuttle has never had to close our doors, even temporarily,” he stated in an email. “We are blessed not to let any employee go during the pandemic and are proud to continue to schedule work for our drivers!”
That despite the fact that air travel dropped 70%, and reached a record drop of 90% in April, according to Mr. Parisi.
“To My Surprise shuttle has seen a steep decline, about 65%, of lost ridership to and from Sky Harbor,” Mr. Parisi explained. “To My Surpise shuttle has been able to work with our drivers and a PPP loan to continue to pay our employees and be open for business when the community has needed us to respond.”
In addition, company officials continue to search out other opportunities. Mr. Parasis said those include, but are not limited to, food deliver, non-urgent-medical transport and delivery with Amazon.
“Stay tuned,” Mr. Parisi stated.
To MY Surprise Shuttle has been able to survive because it is unique and flexible, according to Mr. Parisi.
“We can adapt to the market and shift when needed,” he stated. “We have helped our family of riders get around during the pandemic. It’s all about the schedule and driver availability. Calling us in advance is best during these difficult times.”
Since its inception in 2009, To My Surprise Shuttle traveled more than 2 million miles, according to Mr. Parisi. The company serves communities in the Northwest Valley, including El Mirage, Youngtown, Sun City, Sun City West and Vistancia. All shuttles are cleaned and sanitized after each rider, according to Mr. Parisi. All To My Surprise Shuttle drivers are drug tested, background checked and must carry an updated medical card, he added.
Call 623-218-6035.
Rusty Bradshaw News Editor | Sun City &
Sun City West @SunCitiesEditor
Rusty Bradshaw is a 40-year veteran of community journalism, having worked at newspapers in Wyoming, Oregon and Arizona. He has been with Independent Newsmedia 15 years.
Rusty earned a junior college certificate from Northwest College in Powell, Wyoming and a bachelor of science degree from Eastern Oregon University in LaGrande Oregon.
An avid football fan, Rusty also enjoys photography, reading, spending time outdoors and enjoying life with his wife. He also authored three books of fiction, “The Rehabilitation of Miss Little,” “Moist on the Mountain” and "Gorge Justice." Visit www.rustythewriter.org.