Happy Friday, April 17th!

Will congress replenish the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) programs?  These 'life lines' for small business are out of money and many businesses are left trying to figure out what to do.  The only pot of money big enough to support so many businesses is the federal government which is why we support additional dollars into the program.

Today Governor Walz allowed for the opening of golf courses, boating, fishing and other outdoor activities starting Saturday (4/18) at 5 a.m.  People need to follow distancing and best practices, but as we approach a warm weekend, this news is welcome!

The legislature passed a bill to allow take out alcohol at restaurants, the Governor is expected to sign it today.

Be careful of scams.  People will prey on your desire to support the community, so be careful giving money.  Make sure you know the source of where the money is going and how it will be used.

The Owatonna Chamber continues to urge both the state and Steele County to allow for a delay in property tax payments without penalty.  Steele Co has been receptive to this and we should know more soon.

Opening more businesses.  The state has received more than 1500 ideas around how to open business safely...several of those ideas coming from our businesses in Owatonna!  We agree, there is a way to provide business opportunities to sell product and do it safely.  

We will be back live on Facebook on Monday and Wednesday next week.  Wednesday we expect Congressman Hagedorn to join us.  

Have a great weekend!