Member Update
September 11, 2020
What's Inside:
CDC Report Questioned
Enforcement Actions
Senate Bill Fails
Findings: Hotel Careers Study
Coming: New Fed Survey
ServSafe | Course and Test
CDC Report Questioned
The Centers for Disease Control has issued a report that suggests a correlation between visiting a restaurant and contracting COVID. In concert with our national colleagues, we question the conclusions drawn from the research. When asked by the Star Tribune to comment for their article, of which only a portion was used, Liz Rammer said this:

"The study did not find a cause and effect, only an association. This will cause unnecessary concern and confusion among the public, further placing our fragile restaurant industry in jeopardy. To my understanding, the study does not address the risk management practices (social distancing, mask wearing, etc.) of any of the restaurants. This is a critical component. It’s also important to acknowledge that people who are willing to visit restaurants are probably more likely to gather in other settings. As such, you would expect to note the association, but not be able to determine cause and effect related to people eating out."


While it makes advocacy for expanding capacity more challenging, we remain undeterred in our efforts to advance the proposals set out in our letter to Governor Walz last week.
Enforcement Actions
With a headline that suggests that half of all restaurants in Minnesota were out of compliance during last weekend's enforcement actions, the news continues to plague our efforts to use facts to rebuild consumer confidence. In truth, a small number of Minnesota's total restaurants -- 167 -- were found to be out of compliance, with most cited for minor infractions addressed through education. Adherence to the Guidance, and engaging customers to do so as well, is the best way to create the controlled environment needed to manage the spread and to help counteract current misconceptions about safety. If we can be helpful in anyway, please call us at 651-778-2400 or email info@hospitalitymn.com
Senate Vote Fails
The US Senate relief bill fell short of the 60 votes needed for passage. Sadly, this may have been the last opportunity before the election to get the package enacted.
Findings: Hotel Careers Study
The American Hotel And Lodging Association Foundation funded a study to look at the career pathways hospitality students follow as they advance in the industry. The key finding suggests that the opportunities for career progress are not defined by degree level. Both associates and bachelors degrees guarantee similar success levels over the long-term.
Coming: New Fed Survey
Be on the look Monday for our fall economic survey in partnership with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. We encourage everyone to take 5 minutes to complete it.

Today's extremely challenging conditions make it more important than ever that we collect the data that will help us advocate for what you need. Once completed, we'll share summary results, so you can have the benefit of economic data from similar businesses across Minnesota.
Course and Test Bundle
MANAGER COURSE
WITH ONLINE PROCTORED EXAM

Take the course and the exam from the privacy of your own home.

Just $179
Click this link to register: http://bit.ly/ServSafeOnlineBundleSeptember

For the EXAM: you will need a computer or laptop with a mic and camera, no tablets or phones.
Our Member Updates are generally sent to members only. In the interest of public health and the health of our industry, we encourage you to share this update widely. Additional resources can be found on our website and through our social media posts on Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter.