Dec 23, 2020

Where does the economy go from here?

Shoppers wearing protective masks are seen at Hudson Yards on Nov. 27, 2020, in New York. Jeenah Moon/Getty Images

Even with more COVID relief, the economy, businesses and people are still gonna be hurting. Plus, why it can be a challenge for LGBTQ veterans to get their benefits.

Segments From this episode

COVID-19

Consumer spending and personal income fell. That's bad news for the economy

by Samantha Fields

Dec 23, 2020

With stimulus checks long gone and unemployment benefits running out, many consumers are less willing to spend.

Shoppers wearing protective masks are seen at Hudson Yards on Nov. 27, 2020, in New York.

Jeenah Moon/Getty Images

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COVID-19

Small business owners eye a second Paycheck Protection Program loan

by Justin Ho

Dec 23, 2020

Some previous applicants say they're weighing past experiences, as they decide whether to apply again.

A restaurant employee moves between tables outside of a restaurant in Manhattan on Dec. 11 in New York City.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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COVID & Unemployment

Will companies choose to rehire laid-off employees or hire new ones?

by Erika Beras

Dec 23, 2020

When they're ready to start hiring, businesses have to consider costs and legal issues.

A flight attendant passes out refreshments. Airlines are among the industries that could rehire workers once pandemic relief is distributed.

Michael Loccisano/Getty Images

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COVID-19

Relief and confusion as COVID-19 vaccines reach nursing homes

by Jasmine Garsd

Dec 23, 2020

The vaccine rollout will be a heavy lift for many homes that have been dealing with outbreaks, equipment shortages and labor challenges.

An 88-year-old nursing home resident in Florida prepares to receive the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine.

Joe Raedle/Getty Images

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Many LGBTQ veterans face long waits for access to benefits

by Kimberly Adams

Dec 23, 2020

Veterans with discharges linked to their sexual orientation may be denied benefits until getting a discharge upgrade. But the process can take years.

The type of discharge a veteran has matters for the types of benefits they receive and can affect future employment.

Spencer Platt/Getty Images

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Spruce top thieves illegally cutting a northwoods cash crop

by Dan Kraker

Dec 23, 2020

So far this season conservation officers have seized well over 15,000 spruce tops illegally harvested in Minnesota.

Minnesota Department of Natural Resources conservation officer Shane Zavodnik examines an illegally cut spruce tree while standing in a frozen swamp on Nov. 23, 2020, on private property near Eveleth, Minnesota.

Derek Montgomery/MPR News

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Consumer spending habits during the holiday season

The coronavirus pandemic has changed how and where people are spending their money. Three consumers share their recent spending habits.

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Music from the episode

Wonton Medeski, Martin & Wood

Ungodly Fruit Wax Tailor

Dans Le Noir Dark Rooms

Better Days Cody Ash

Before I Fall Bob Moses

Loving You Jennifer Lopez

Kāma Maribou State

The team

Nancy Farghalli Executive Producer

Daisy Palacios Senior Producer

Maria Hollenhorst Producer

Sean McHenry Associate Producer

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