On May 11th Governor Ricketts announced plans to issue a new Directed Health Measure (DHM) for the PHS district which includes Fillmore, Gage, Jefferson, Saline, and Thayer counties. This DHM will be effective beginning on May 18th.

The new DHM will allow for the reopening of salons/barber shops/tattoo shops/massage therapy services with some restrictions, the re-opening with dining room services at restaurants, with some restrictions, and a new guideline for childcare centers, increasing the number of children allowed in a room from ten (10) to fifteen (15).

Read the New Directed Health Measure that starts May 18th here

Several guidance documents have been released and can be found at the link below.
http://dhhs.ne.gov/…/COVID-19-Nebraska-Guidance-Documents.a…

Governor’s Press Release Link

Small Businesses Tips to Re-Open Safely & Effectively
> Main Street America Resource Document
>  REOPEN Main Street Website

The Beatrice Community has been warded the Showcase Community of the Year Award by the Nebraska Department of Economic Development!

Read the Announcement: https://bit.ly/3a2PHDj

Read the local news stories: Beatrice Daily Sun article (April 18) News Channel Nebraska (radio) story (April 18)

“Our successes have happened because people believe Beatrice is worth fighting for, is worth investing in and is worth supporting. Our local economic development team includes NGage, the Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce, the City of Beatrice, Gage County and Main Street Beatrice. We are excited for what the future holds. We will always have challenges to overcome, but they are much less daunting when our community shows a drive to succeed.”
Michael Sothan – Main Street Beatrice

Thank you, Beatrice, for making us an award-winning community. We know we can achieve even more once this current slow down lets up.

#BeatriceNE #showcasecommunityaward #communitydevelopment #cdweek #stakeyourclaim #opportunitygrowshere

This award would not have been possible if it were not for the hard work of our local community and business leaders. We also want to recognize our community development partners of the Beatrice Area Chamber of Commerce, Gage Area Growth Enterprise – NGage, and the City of Beatrice.

Small Business Covid-19 Resources
Understanding the new Federal Package can be difficult, here is one of the best sources we have found to help you understand how it can be part of our business’s plan to address this crisis’s financial impacts. https://www.uschamber.com/co/start/strategy/cares-act-small-business-guide

Want to know how to apply? Check out the easy, step-by-step Small Business Coronavirus Emergency Loan Guide: https://www.uschamber.com/sites/default/files/023595_comm_corona_virus_smallbiz_loan_final_revised.pdf

At this time we recommend all businesses looking to seek Federal Assistance or Loans to contact their local bank or lender. The SBA’s 7a Loan Program (includes new forgivable loans) and the SBA Direct Disaster Loans are all tools at your disposal.

Additionally there now Payroll Tax deferments, a Paycheck Protection Program (basically a grant to help you keep or rehire employees), new tax tools, plus the date to file taxes has been moved to July 15th.

Always seek extra debt as a last resort – Many sources of help are out there please don’t be afraid to ask. Many local banks are offering extended credit, payment deferments, and other assistance that may be more beneficial than a disaster loan.

Federal Stimulus Package Promises Relief for Small Businesses

Broad Highlights: all numbers are approximate

1) $500 billion in loans to eligible businesses 2) $350 billion in small business loans 3) $24 billion to stabilize the farm economy

Labor Provisions 1) Paid leave payment cap and advance tax credit 2)$600/week add-on to state unemployment programs 3)Create state short-term compensation programs 4) Provisions for the self-employed  

Tax Provisions 1) 2018 – 2020 losses can offset previous income 2) Allowable interest deductions up to 50% 3) 2-year payroll tax deferral 4) Access to tax refunds when paying taxes on overseas earnings 5) Create employee retention tax credit 6) Accelerate corporate Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT) credits 7)  Fix to Qualified Improvement Property

Health Care Provisions 1) $150 billion for health care facilities 2) Liability protections for PPE makers 3) Clarifies insurance coverage for tests and treatment 4) $200 million for telehealth

Individual Provisions 1) Individual rebate checks ($1,200 for individuals, $500 per child) 2) Waives 10% penalty for retirement plan distributions

Keep in mind that the Direct SBA Programs are taking 3-4 weeks to be processed, the programs through local banks are taking less than 2 weeks on average.

Federal Loans And Grants

The Small Business Administration (SBA) offers guidance for businesses and employers to plan for and respond to Coronavirus disruptions, for general information please visit: SBA.gov The SBA is now offering two primary assistance tools The Paycheck Protection Program known as PPP (through local banks) and through the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program that provides small businesses with working capital loans and a $10,000 forgivable advance. These tolls are to provide vital economic support to small businesses to help avoid closure and keep employees or rehire employees. These tools are open to non-profit organizations, sole-proprietors, contract workers, and all traditional small businesses.

  Guide to all available SBA Covid-19 Small Business Funding Resources can be found here – This includes the PPP, EIDL, Express Bridge Loans, Debt Relief Programs

> Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) The Paycheck Protection Program is a loan designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses to keep their workers on the payroll. SBA will forgive PPP loans if all employees are kept on the payroll for eight weeks and the money is used for payroll, rent, mortgage interest, or utilities. You can apply through any existing SBA 7(a) lender or through any federally insured depository institution, federally insured credit union, and Farm Credit System institution that is participating. Other regulated lenders will be available to make these loans once they are approved and enrolled in the program. You should consult with your local lender as to whether it is participating in the program. Local Lenders have begun processing loan applications. The Paycheck Protection Program will be available through June 30, 2020 but funds may run out before then.  

More information on the Paycheck Protection Program can be found here

> Forgivable $10,000 Advance Payments are now available (may be limited to $1,000 per employee) In response to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, small business owners in all states are eligible to apply for an Economic Injury Disaster Loan advance of up to $10,000. This advance will provide economic relief to businesses that are currently experiencing a temporary loss of revenue. Funds will be made available within three days of a successful application. This loan advance will not have to be repaid. Take extra care when using both the $10,000 advance and the PPP program, be sure to be keeping good records of your eligible expenses and create a plan with your local lender.

Apply for the Loan Advance here.

The forgivable cash advance is applied for online with the SBA You are given the option of turning down the loan (if approved) and just taking the 10,000 cash advance. Even if you are not accepted for a loan you get to keep the $10,000 cash advance.

Points of Clarity:

• Sole Proprietors and Contract Employees may apply
• A business can apply for both programs – please note that if you apply for both you can not use the forgivable dollars for the same expenses and will need to be able to clearly show your expenses. Local Banks can help you make this determination.
• Very small businesses with limited payroll expenses may be best served by the EIDL program, if you have multiple employees both programs should be considered.
• These programs are taking weeks not days to get you funds, if you need emergency money now apply today but also talk to your bank about short term financial assistance.

If you have not already done so – be sure to communicate with your lender about any difficulties you are having or expect to have – Many banks are extending lines of credit and providing other assistance in this difficult time. Do not be afraid to seek help!

We are wishing you the best and here to help you. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have questions! Main Street Beatrice, 402-223-3244, msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org

Business Resources:

For our most recent email blasts to businesses please visit:

Friday, March 20 > https://conta.cc/2QuMOnS

Tuesday, March 24 > https://conta.cc/39hcGub

Friday, March 27 > https://conta.cc/3dy4AAD

Thursday, April 2 > https://conta.cc/2UC7zQY

Tuesday, April 7th > https://conta.cc/2XmFXRF

Wednesday, April 15 > https://conta.cc/2ykhH8w

Wednesday, April 22 > https://conta.cc/2KCflop

Monday, May 4th > https://conta.cc/3dazP3u

Monday, May 11th > https://conta.cc/2AjU8O1

Tuesday, May 12th > https://conta.cc/2YT0iip

First of all, we are here to help – If you have questions or need help getting word to your customers/community let us know. We will use social media and other means to help you share news and updates.
Please send details or links to the items you want to be shared via: msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org and info@mainstreetbeatrice.org Or call 402-223-3244
We have been working to share business posts on Facebook Let us know if you have a post we can share.

SBA Resources:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) released a toolkit offering guidance for businesses and employers to plan and respond to Coronavirus. They also offer the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

Tool Kit

Loan Program

Emergency Preparedness

Federal Small Business Administration Disaster Loans are now available for Nebraska’s Businesses effected by Covid-19.

SBA Disaster Loan Information

These loans will be available directly through the SBA – plus many local lenders have been learning more about these programs and may be able to help you.
If you have not already done so – be sure to communicate with your lender about any difficulties you are having or expect to have – Many banks are extending lines of credit and providing other assistance in this difficult time. Do not be afraid to seek help!

Unemployment Insurance:
Gov. Ricketts has issued an Executive Order to Loosen Unemployment Insurance Eligibility Requirements.

The Governor’s Address on Unemployment Insurance

The Nebraska Department of Labor is waiving the required work search requirement and the one week wait period for unemployment benefits for those who are unable to report to work due to closure or illness. The employer fee for short-term benefits is also waived. In addition, the State has expanded its Short-Time Compensation program to help reduce or prevent layoffs by providing prorated unemployment benefits to those still working but who have had their hours reduced.
More information can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s website at:

www.dol.nebraska.gov

If you are needing to temporarily lay-off your employees these resources are for you. Don’t Be Afraid to Call and Ask Questions to ensure you get the paperwork done right.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce:
The U.S. Chamber is working to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for the near and long-term impact.
Business Resources

U.S. Department of Labor:
The U.S. Department of Labor provides information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to influenza, pandemics, or other public health emergencies. Information for Employees and Employers

CDC Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides extensive information and updates on how to prevent community spread. Below is specific guidance for community organizations, businesses, and event planners.

Community Organizations

Businesses

Community Events

These are certainly unprecedented times, we thank you for visiting our website.

Simply put you and our Community are at the heart of everything we do. As COVID-19 begins to have an increasingly significant impact on Beatrice and communities across the country, we are compiling existing resources, and items for our businesses and community as we all navigate this crisis.

We also encourage you to visit The Nebraska Department of Health & Human Resources for up to date health-related information.

👉 Follow Main Street Beatrice on Facebook for local business updates. Many places remain open, although in a limited capacity. All are working to keep you and their staff safe. #SupportLocalFirst #ShopLocalSafely #WeAreInThisTogether #NebraskaStrong #BeatriceNE
#DowntownBeatrice

Our prayers are with the hundreds of locals who are currently out of work as a result of this emergency, we all pray for a speedy end to this challenge.  Stay Safe Everyone!

Status on Local Restaurants, Bars, and Entertainment Venues:

You can help:
1) Order Take Out/Delivery 2) Buy Gift Cards 3) Tip Generously 4) Leave Reviews to your favorite local shops 5) Share your favorite local shops on social media

Downtown Locations:
4one8 Bar & Grill – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
Beatrice Movies  – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
The Black Crow Restaurant and Bar, Banquets and Catering – Carry Out Only
Country Cookin’ Cafe – Call ahead
Colleen’s Catering – Call ahead
Community Players Inc. – Online activities only
Dairy Queen Grill & Chill – Drive Through Only
Kabo Bar – Open, all events canceled
Kick-Shots – Open, all events canceled
The Mechanical Room – Carry-Out & limited seating
The Rail – Open
Shanghai Inn – Carry Out Only
Sifted Sweets – Call ahead
Stone Hollow Brewing Company – Carry-Out & Curbside Pick-Up, limited tap-house seating
Sunrise Bakery – Carry-Out & Delivery Only
Traubel’s Popcorn – Temporarily Closed during the crisis
Tall Tree Tastings – Carry-Out & limited seating
Valentino’s – Drive Through, Carry-Out & Delivery Only

Yellow Cab of Beatrice is offering delivery services to any open location, $7 flat rate. 402-806-2727

More locations at: Beatrice Chamber – Covid-19 Page Beatrice Daily Sun Delivery & Takeout Guide

Business Resources:

For our most recent email blast to businesses please visit: https://conta.cc/2UC7zQY

First of all, we are here to help – If you have questions or need help getting word to your customers/community let us know. We will use social media and other means to help you share news and updates.
Please send details or links to the items you want to be shared via: msothan@mainstreetbeatrice.org and info@mainstreetbeatrice.org Or call 402-223-3244
We have been working to share business posts on Facebook Let us know if you have a post we can share.

SBA Resources:
The Small Business Administration (SBA) released a toolkit offering guidance for businesses and employers to plan and respond to Coronavirus. They also offer the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program that provides small businesses with working capital loans of up to $2 million that can provide vital economic support to small businesses to help overcome the temporary loss of revenue they are experiencing.

Tool Kit

Loan Program

Emergency Preparedness

Federal Small Business Administration Disaster Loans are now available for Nebraska’s Businesses effected by Covid-19.

SBA Disaster Loan Information

These loans will be available directly through the SBA – plus many local lenders have been learning more about these programs and may be able to help you.
If you have not already done so – be sure to communicate with your lender about any difficulties you are having or expect to have – Many banks are extending lines of credit and providing other assistance in this difficult time. Do not be afraid to seek help!

Unemployment Insurance:
Gov. Ricketts has issued an Executive Order to Loosen Unemployment Insurance Eligibility Requirements.

The Governor’s Address on Unemployment Insurance

The Nebraska Department of Labor is waiving the required work search requirement and the one week wait period for unemployment benefits for those who are unable to report to work due to closure or illness. The employer fee for short-term benefits is also waived. In addition, the State has expanded its Short-Time Compensation program to help reduce or prevent layoffs by providing prorated unemployment benefits to those still working but who have had their hours reduced.
More information can be accessed on the Department of Labor’s website at:

www.dol.nebraska.gov

If you are needing to temporarily lay-off your employees these resources are for you. Don’t Be Afraid to Call and Ask Questions to ensure you get the paperwork done right.

U.S. Chamber of Commerce:
The U.S. Chamber is working to inform and equip businesses with the most important and up-to-date information to prevent the spread of the virus and prepare businesses for the near and long-term impact.
Business Resources

U.S. Department of Labor:
The U.S. Department of Labor provides information on common issues employers and employees face when responding to influenza, pandemics, or other public health emergencies. Information for Employees and Employers

CDC Resources
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides extensive information and updates on how to prevent community spread. Below is specific guidance for community organizations, businesses, and event planners.

Community Organizations

Businesses

Community Events

New Stories:

Governor Ricketts Issues Executive Order to Provide Relief to Restaurants and Bars during COVID-19 Emergency. Efforts to lift restrictions on restaurants and bars statewide and provide greater flexibility to serve Nebraskans during the current public health emergency. Announcement Link

The City of Beatrice suspends late fees and disconnections for non-payment through May 31, 2020. Please contact the Board of Public Works to inform them if you plan to delay your payment, they may be able to help you make additional arrangements, so that you do not get further behind. Announcement Link
City of Beatrice, Gage County, Issue Joint Recommendation on Coronavirus, 3/20/20

What will the limitations likely be on people and businesses if cases of Covid-19 are found in the Beatrice area? Below is a link to the rules now being imposed on Douglas, Sarpy, and Washington Counties

Gov. Ricketts Announces Directed Health Measure for Cass, Douglas, Sarpy, & Washington Counties – Media Release Link
Link to The Official Guidance in effect for locations such as Beatrice Nebraska as of 1:00pm 3/19/20 The 10 person restrictions that are in place for some types of businesses, this applies to customers but does not include paid staff members.

Other News Links:
Nebraska Governors Announcement- How Everyone Can Help Stop Coronavirus, 3/17/20
Facebook announces $100 million grant program for small businesses impacted by coronavirus
Treasury and IRS to delay tax payment deadline by 90 days
Trump seeks stimulus package potentially worth more than $1 trillion, including direct payments to Americans and help for small businesses, 3/17/20
Fox News Article on Federal Actions aimed at helping Small Businesses, 3/18/20