Wallowa County Voices: Not worried about tourists bringing COVID

Published 7:00 am Wednesday, July 22, 2020

JOSEPH — Arion Canniff has lived in Joseph about four years, having moved here with his wife, Amy Wolf, and opened their combination restaurant/retail shop the Dog Spot.

The retail portion of the shop, he says, primarily caters to pet owners.

“It’s for the owners and for their pets,” he said.

Unlike many businesses in the tourism-focused town, the Dog Spot stays open year-round, Canniff says, though they trim back their hours in the winter.

The couple moved here to be near her parents.

He shared his thoughts on living in Wallowa County recently.

What’s the best thing or place in Wallowa County?

Oh, the lake. On a still morning, when the lake reflects the mountains, you can’t get a better view.

What is the greatest challenge facing Wallowa County?

Probably the ability to run a business. All the regulations and the difficulty getting product here make it tough.

Are you aware of the anti-tourism signs that were posted accusing tourists of bring in COVID-19? Are you worried about that?

Yes, I’m aware of it, but no, I’m not worried. I’m more worried about being able to make a living here than I am about catching the virus. I’m totally against any kind of anti-tourism sentiment. Tourism is a portion of our income. It’s our main industry.

What have you learned from living in Wallowa County?

How to operate a business in a blizzard. That’s a challenge. It’s not like getting to work is a problem, but for customers and trucks bringing product, it can be a problem.

What’s your advice for people who are thinking about moving here?

Be well prepared to be able to buy or rent a home. The prices here are expensive.

— Bill Bradshaw Wallowa County Chieftain