As the longest government shutdown in U.S. history approaches 30 days, the burden of many services crucial to society are heaped on the shoulders of public employees putting in shifts with nary a penny in sight.
Roughly 800,000 government workers aren't getting paid-so long as lawmakers on Capitol Hill can't come to a compromise-and local entities aren't spared from the shutdown.
At the Brainerd Lakes Regional Airport, services continue to run without a hitch, Airport Director Steve Wright said Friday, Jan. 18. He noted much of that is thanks to 11 Transportation Security Administration agents committed to providing checks, searches and other forms of protection to passengers without pay.
"These TSA agents have been coming into work and keeping our flights secure and safe, without pay," Wright said. "That's the joy of a small community airport-we always have small, convenient security lines at the Brainerd airport. It's been business as usual through this government shutdown. That's the good spirit of our local TSA agents."
Chalk up Mark Nesheim, owner of Wings Cafe-an eatery located in the airport's terminal-among those willing to lend a helping hand during this time.
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Starting Friday, Wings Cafe is providing meals for TSA agents-whatever they want and whenever they need it (when the cafe's open), free of charge, for however long the shutdown lasts.
"It was asked if we could do anything. I thought, 'Well, I'm already in the airport with the cafe and some of them eat here already,'" Nesheim said. "So, I figured that we'll just let them eat their lunch here for free. I really didn't expect anything out of it-not publicity, or anything-I just did it."
"They can just come down and order food and we'll (pay for it)," Nesheim added. "It's that simple."
Wright praised Nesheim for his generosity and willingness to step in and assist workers who contribute in a crucial role to airport services.
"I think that's a great idea on his part. He's definitely looking out for the teammates here at the airport. We work as a team to get every flight in and out," Wright said of Nesheim's decision.
Nesheim's only regret is he didn't start offering free meals to TSA agents last week. He reaffirmed his promises during his conversation with the Dispatch-these meals will be available to TSA agents as long as the shutdown lasts.
"I'm a man of my word, so I'm going to do it. I'm not concerned about the expense of it," Nesheim said. "I told the agents we're very grateful for them. I understand what's going on and if I can help out, I will."
Nesheim has been previously recognized for his volunteer work with youths interested in agricultural business-honored as the Outstanding Agribusiness Person of the Year during the Brainerd Distinguished Service Awards ceremony in late October.
