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Missoula business sees busiest month of the year in December, despite the pandemic

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MISSOULA — Last minute shoppers were in full swing Christmas Eve, the parking lot of Rockin' Rudy's had been full, and inside they were almost at full capacity.

General Manager Amelia Regalado says they're counting on December customers, and community support, after a year like 2020.

"I'd be lying if I say there weren't quite a few challenges, but luckily we have a really strong team, that works together really well and puts their heads together and is willing to bring up concerns. I feel like we've really come together, and it's made us stronger in the long run," said Regalado.

On Thursday, it was all smiling faces, searching the racks for the perfect gift.

Regalado says that support in the store is keeping them going this holiday season.

"It's been kind of a lifeline for us, because honestly it's been pretty challenging. There's been a lot of high energy. It's been really great as a team to share that positive feedback and have that support," said Regalado.

Stores all over are enforcing capacity limits due to covid, leaving shoppers waiting to get in.

Downtown...Missoulians walk the streets, scrambling to get those last minute presents.

Regalado says they have had some difficult customers this year, some that didn't want to wear a mask or following distancing guidelines, but the positive outweighed the negative.

"The people that support us when that happens, and usually there's people right there saying oh you did a really good job, you handled that really well, really helps," said Regaldo.

Rockin' Rudy's says December was their busiest month of the year, but this year especially, they appreciate the business.