February 15, 2021
Minnesota Governor Tim Walz Continues to Move the Dial and Loosen Restrictions for Businesses
On Friday, February 12, 2021, Governor Tim Walz continued to loosen restrictions for businesses by signing Executive Order 21-07, which adjust limitations on certain activities and businesses from previous Executive Orders. While these changes may not be major, they are a step forward in fully reopening businesses and will help thousands of businesses and workers across the state of Minnesota.
Starting Saturday, February 13, 2021, at 12:00 PM the following changes will go into effect:

  • The cap on bars and restaurants will move up to 250 people inside and 250 outside, with an occupancy limit of no more than 50% of established capacity.  
  • Onsite dining hours are extended to 11:00 pm for any establishment that serves food. Takeout may occur after 11:00 pm.  
  • Indoor seated and non-seated entertainment occupancy limits expand to 250 people in each separate area, with a total max of 1,250 people, while maintaining social distancing. Food and beverage consumption is extended to 11:00 pm. 
  • Outdoor entertainment food and beverage consumption is extended to 11:00 pm.  
  • Private wedding, funeral, celebrations and parties will have an occupancy limit of 25%, up to a max. of 50 people with social distancing. These events may not occur between 11:00 pm and 4:00 am.   
  • Gyms, fitness centers and pools expand to 250 at 25% capacity. Social distancing at 6 feet.  

Read the full press release of Governor Tim Walz new restrictions and regulations HERE.
Weekly Update Sponsor
Laura Sobiech to be Keynote Speaker at 10th Annual WomEn's Leadership Forum
The DCR Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce Laura Sobiech as our keynote speaker for the 10th Annual WomEn's Leadership Forum. The 10th Annual WomEn's Leadership Forum will take place Friday, April 9, 2021, from 7:30 AM-12:30 PM at the Radisson Blu Mall of America. This event will be an in-person & virtual event*.

Minnesota Mom, Laura Sobiech, mother of the late Zach, who was diagnosed with osteosarcoma bone cancer at the young age 14. During three and a half years of battling the diagnosis alongside her son, Laura learned profound lessons of resilience, hope, and gratitude. Hear her tell her story of how the smallest acts of love can transform the world and how she came to understand that life is so much bigger than what is shown in front of us.
Laura Sobiech
Author & Speaker
Learn more and register for the 10th Annual WomEn's Leadership Forum HERE. If you have any questions, contact Heather Proskey, Director of Events & Member Experience, at [email protected].
*The DCR Chamber of Commerce is committed to putting on high level events with the safest precautions during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Due to ever changing regulations by the State of Minnesota, we will be monitoring the pandemic and following the recommended guidelines by the state. Though this could impact our ability to meet in-person, the DCR Chamber of Commerce is committed to putting on a high level event regardless of circumstance. 
The Future of Public Safety in Dakota County Webinar

The death of George Floyd led to protests around the world. It also sparked a nationwide movement calling for changes in policing and public safety. The riots and protests in our Nation’s Capitol and other State Capitols have also created a sense of urgency for our personal and business communities.

The Minneapolis-St. Paul region and Dakota County are being transformed by what has taken place. Businesses are being included in city and county plans for an equitable society and many new public/private alliances are being formed.

Join us Thursday, February 18, 2021, from 8:30-10:00 AM for a conversation about what is important to our businesses and communities and how law enforcement can be reimagined to better serve us all.  
Tim Leslie
Dakota County Sheriff
Roger New
Chief of Police
City of Eagan

Mikael Dahlstrom
Chief of Police
City of Rosemount
Kelly McCarthy
Chief of Police
City of Mendota Heights
Thank you to our Dakota County Critical Issues Forum Sponsor
Register HERE
March Public Affairs Webinar: A Conversation With Chief Prosecutor Jim Backstrom

Since 1987 Dakota County Attorney, Jim Backstrom, has served his community as a public servant. After 33 years of representing Dakota County in the courtroom, Chief Prosecutor Backstrom unexpectedly announced his retirement earlier this year.
 
Join us Friday, March 5, 2021, from 8:00-9:00 AM for a conversation with Chief Prosecutor Backstrom as we take a look back at his distinguished career and the cases that he prosecuted. From county courtrooms to the Supreme Court, Chief Prosecutor Backstrom has made an impact on law & order across the country. We will also discuss what the future holds for the Dakota County Attorney's office, and for Chief Prosecutor Backstrom personally.
Jim Backstrom
Dakota County Chief Prosecutor
Register HERE
Thank you to our Public Affairs Webinar Sponsors
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Comcast Celebrates 10th Anniversary of Internet Essentials Program

Ten years ago, Comcast started the Internet Essentials program to help bridge the digital divide. Earlier this week, Comcast made several announcements that builds on its long-standing commitment to advancing digital equity, closing the digital divide, and addressing both digital literacy and the homework gap. Learn more about everything Comcast is doing with the Internet Essential program HERE.
Think Bank welcomes Scott Hoss as Vice President of Business Banking

Think Bank is pleased to welcome Scott Hoss as its new Vice President of Business Banking. A Rochester native, Scott is an experienced and innovative business leader with strong strategic vision who is eager to help businesses grow and thrive. Scott has a diverse professional background and most recently served as a commercial real estate agent and property manager for Paramark Real Estate Services. Prior to that, Scott was an attorney for Dunlap & Seeger. Scott is actively involved in the community and currently serves on the Boards of the Boys & Girls Club of Rochester, the Sertoma Club, and Threshold Arts. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Gustavus Adolphus College and his law degree from William Mitchell College of Law.
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U.S. Chamber of Commerce Launches COVID Vaccine Digital Resource Center

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched a comprehensive new digital resource center to ensure the business community has the information, tools, and templates it needs to navigate this critical phase of the pandemic response and get back to business. The COVID Vaccine Digital Resources Center includes FAQs, state-specific guidance and information, employer vaccine communication and strategy guidance, reliable safety and efficacy information, and more. Check out the resource center HERE.
Networking at its Best
Registration is Required
Tuesday, February 23, 2021
8:00-9:00 AM
Wednesday, February 24, 2021
9:00-10:00 AM
Renewed Members

DSV Air & Sea Inc. – 25 years
The Urgency Room – 9 years
Sonesta ES Suites MSP – 5 years
Compudyne – 2 years
GR Promotions – 2 years

If you have questions or concerns about your membership renewal, please contact Anna Schueler at [email protected] or call 651-452-9872.
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