A year into pandemic, restaurants in Pine River Valley feel ‘optimistic’ Durango, Colorado Currently Wed Owners anticipate good year ahead after surviving COVID-19 By Shannon Mullane Durango and Pine River Valley reporter Monday, April 5, 2021 2:00 AM A year into pandemic, restaurants in Pine River Valley feel ‘optimistic’ Ashleigh Tarkington, co-owner of the Billy Goat Saloon in Gem Village, said Wednesday that she took advantage of the COVID-19 shutdown to replace windows and do some remodeling at the bar. Jerry McBride/Durango Herald Toggle font size Ashleigh Tarkington, co-owner of Billy Goat Saloon in Gem Village, said her personal savings took a hit as the bar adapted to COVID-19 restrictions – but a year into the pandemic, she viewed the past challenges as learning opportunities.