Hampton Roads restaurant owners were able to keep their businesses afloat thanks to initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), as discussed in a recent meeting about economic relief efforts with federal leaders. Isabel Guzman, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, commended the PPP and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund’s effectiveness during the meeting. For example, Chris Johnson, co-owner of Torch Bistro in Norfolk’s Chelsea District, revealed that the restaurant might have had to close permanently without loans from the PPP. These relief efforts, backed by elected officials such as Rep. Bobby Scott and Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander, have shown a promising “all-government approach” to support small businesses. However, Guzman also highlighted the need for strict control and punishment for any fraudulent activities in these programs.

Restaurant Owners Saved by Relief Programs

Some Hampton Roads restaurant owners said their businesses were saved by initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program in a meeting about economic relief efforts with federal leaders Tuesday.

Praise for Paycheck Protection Program and Restaurant Revitalization Fund

Isabel Guzman, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, praised the PPP and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund at the meeting.

Impact on Torch Bistro

At Torch Bistro in Norfolk’s Chelsea District, co-owner Chris Johnson said the restaurant might’ve shut its doors for good without loans from the PPP.

Future Plans and Support from Elected Leaders

Talking with elected officials like Rep. Bobby Scott (D-3rd District) and Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander, Guzman said it’s been “heartening” to see an “all-government approach” to helping small businesses.
Rep. Elaine Luria (D-2nd District) advocated for more money for the SBA programs.

Call for Continued Support and Oversight

Guzman said the SBA was efficient and swift in getting out relief, but it needs to be controlling and strict on punishing fraud as well.

Question & Answer

How did Hampton Roads restaurant owners benefit from relief programs?

Hampton Roads restaurant owners were able to keep their businesses afloat thanks to initiatives like the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

What was Isabel Guzman’s opinion on the effectiveness of the PPP and Restaurant Revitalization Fund?

Isabel Guzman, Administrator of the U.S. Small Business Administration, commended the PPP and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund’s effectiveness during the meeting.

What impact did the PPP have on Torch Bistro in Norfolk’s Chelsea District?

Co-owner Chris Johnson of Torch Bistro revealed that the restaurant might have had to close permanently without loans from the PPP.

What approach did elected officials like Rep. Bobby Scott and Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander take to support small businesses?

Elected officials like Rep. Bobby Scott and Norfolk Mayor Kenny Alexander showed a promising “all-government approach” to support small businesses.

What did Isabel Guzman emphasize regarding the need for control in relief programs?

Guzman highlighted the need for strict control and punishment for any fraudulent activities in relief programs like the PPP.