If you are like me, you could not wait for 2021 to get here! After the 2020 we had we all figured it could only get better, right? Perhaps we were a little too eager and got off to a false start. Or maybe it wasn’t us…maybe our opponent (pandemic or politics?) were offsides. Either way, it feels like we’ve been backed up 5 yards and back at the line of scrimmage with our goal further away.

But it’s too early to take a knee. In fact, at the Chamber we are optimistic that this year will be better overall, and we are hopeful we will get to resume some of our normal activities. Will it happen this month? Probably not. In February? Unlikely. We are not sure exactly when we can resume board luncheons and community events, but the vaccine is slowly becoming more available and that’s great news!

More Stimulus Ahead

Some more good news is that a new stimulus package was signed into law on December 27, 2020. The Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA) will provide more assistance to individuals and businesses harmed by the impact of the pandemic. For small businesses, this means the reopening and revisions for the Paycheck Protection Program, changes to business taxes, reopening of the EIDL grant program, and more. You can learn more about the specifics of the CRRSAA package on the US Chamber’s website.

For individuals, the new stimulus package means stimulus checks, an extension of unemployment benefits, assistance with internet bills for low-income families, and rental protections to name a few.

Terrell Businesses Thrive During COVID

In Terrell, our business climate and economy have done well through the pandemic thus far. It helps that our Governor does not wish to shut down business and that our County and local leaders are also very pro-business. We speak with colleagues throughout the U.S. on a regular basis and I can tell you the story is not the same for many of them. In seven states, restaurants are not allowed to offer indoor dining.

We want to see Terrell businesses continue to do well and we can all do our part to make that happen. For one, you can spend your stimulus check with local small businesses. That is the intent of those checks – to stimulate the economy. Or just remember to shop local first for whatever it is you’re in the market for. Secondly, remain diligent about protecting yourself and others as we continue to fight this virus.

Stay the Course

I have said it before and will continue to reiterate the importance of following the guidelines – wear your face covering (over your nose and mouth) when you visit stores, restaurants, and other places of business, including your own workplace; wash your hands often and sanitize if washing isn’t an option; maintain a safe social distance from others; stay home if you aren’t feeling well; and if you have symptoms, get tested. You can get a free test at Terrell Municipal Airport, 400 British Flying School Blvd on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays from 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Here at the Chamber, we want to continue to be an advocate and resource for local businesses who are trying to survive this pandemic. We will continue to do what we can to encourage supporting local. Keep an eye on our Facebook page for upcoming promotions and giveaways featuring our member businesses. Maybe you’ll score a touchdown!