Following a brief closure after being seized by the state for nonpayment of sales and payroll taxes, Canal Street's Lighthouse Deli opened once again for business on Saturday.

"We're back," says Terry Clearwater, sole owner and proprietor of the deli. "We're not going anywhere. We're back."

Now that they're back in business, Clearwater is able to let people know her side of the story. When asked about when the Department of Taxation and Finance (DFT) officials came to close the restaurant, Clearwater says that she was surprised both at their arrival and at their actions.

"I was already negotiating with the state when this all happened," she says. "It wasn't at all expected. I'm not bashing the state, you know? They did what they had to do. But they shouldn't have [closed us], I don't think. They probably should've sent a notice. I had no idea they were coming in to close me."

Clearwater credits the tough economic times that have hit the area as part of why she had trouble with taxes in the first place, citing Hydro's departure from the area as a catalyst not just for her difficulties, but for the town and village, too.

"Hydro was a big hit for this community," she says. "People go through town now, they don't stop in town. They go down [Route] 209, [and] what do they have to stop for?"

However, even with the tough times people in Ellenville and Wawarsing are facing, it's those same people that have made Clearwater's experience more bearable. The deli owner is grateful for the support she's received from the community during her time of hardship.

"I thank the customers that I have. Let me tell you, I have a lot of great customers who've shown nothing but support — every person that's walked in here. And my vendors, too. [They said,] 'What can I do? I'll bring it to you,' on the first day we were open. Lots of good people."

Clearwater reports that business has been slow since reopening, though this past Tuesday has started to see business pick up again. Now that customers are coming in to sit down and enjoy breakfast or a big sandwich, Clearwater reports that there is a payment plan set up with the DFT.

"I just want to get back open and do what I've got to do, and just try to stay afloat," she says. "And hopefully something will happen in this village and town and we'll get some business in here."

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