MCACC Breaking News!

2010-03-01T10:07:00.000-05:00

ALEXANDRIA, Va.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The American Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE) today announced the publication of a new study detailing the credit scores and payment behavior of ten local chambers of commerce across the United States, comparing their member businesses with other regional, state and national business averages. Produced by Cortera™, a community-driven business credit bureau, on behalf of ACCE, the study includes the Bowling Green (KY) Area Chamber of Commerce, Greater Boca Raton (FL) Chamber of Commerce, Greater Durham (NC) Chamber of Commerce, Greater Omaha (NE) Chamber of Commerce, Helena (MT) Area Chamber of Commerce, Lake Champlain (VT) Regional Chamber of Commerce, Lubbock (TX) Chamber of Commerce, Salem (OR) Area Chamber of Commerce, San Diego (CA) Regional Chamber of Commerce, and Tulsa (OK) Metro Chamber. According to the study, chamber of commerce members possess an average credit score of 629, compared to a 557 average score for businesses at large. Such scores – the payment behavior from which they are derived -- play a significant role in attracting lines of credit and securing favorable terms from lenders and suppliers.

“What this study indicates is that the perception is right. From a credit standpoint, chamber members on average are better businesses, and as a result they have significant advantages in obtaining the funds they need. In this economy and the tight credit environment we are experiencing, that's especially important.”

A complete copy of the study, which includes both the aggregate findings, as well as the individual commercial credit scores for each of the ten local chambers, is available on the ACCE and Cortera sites. The study was contracted by ACCE and performed by Cortera, which reviewed payment behavior for chamber member businesses.

“Chamber members have long been seen as responsible and reliable members of their community,” said Mick Fleming, president and CEO of ACCE. “What this study indicates is that the perception is right. From a credit standpoint, chamber members on average are better businesses, and as a result they have significant advantages in obtaining the funds they need. In this economy and the tight credit environment we are experiencing, that's especially important.”

“The economic health of the entire supply chain is dependent on the payment behavior of each of its stakeholders,” said Jim Swift, president and CEO of Cortera. “This study suggests that chamber members are among the most dependable participants in this ecosystem.”

About the American Chamber of Commerce Executives

Established in 1914, ACCE is the only national association serving the professional development needs of chamber professionals throughout the United States and Canada. Representing more than 7,300 individuals, ACCE enhances the knowledge, leadership skills, and management effectiveness of chamber executives and their staff through education, benefits programs, trend analysis, benchmarking, and network development. ACCE promotes the highest standards of professional excellence and integrity within the chamber profession.

SUCCESS STORY: Majoring in Michigan entrepreneurship

2010-02-25T09:44:00.000-05:00

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SPECIAL REPORT: Combining cop shops can save big bucks »

SUCCESS STORY: Majoring in Michigan entrepreneurship

By The Center for Michigan - February 25, 2010

By Jo Mathis

Small businesses employ half of the private workforce and generate about 70 percent of the country's new jobs each year.

But about 40 percent of native Michigan college graduates are now leaving the state to find work.

Hoping to put a plug in that brain drain, Michigan colleges and universities now offer classes and majors in entrepreneurship, as well as conferences, competitions, and programs devoted to the independent spirit.

A prominent University of Michigan economist thinks this is a very good idea.

Grimes believes students in many fields should take entrepreneurship courses, and he says the focus on re-training at all community colleges should be broadened to include entrepreneurship.

"(The focus on re-training) seems to have ignored the need to teach people how to start their own business, in any field, from cutting hair to cutting lawns or even writing software for the I-phone, or even figuring out how to make money as a news blogger," he said. "People need help in understanding regulations, taxes, writing up funding proposals, and even thinking through ideas."

EMU junior Melissa Heatlie hopes to eventually earn an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship at EMU. She's not sure if she'll stay in Michigan.

"But one thing is certain," she said. "I have faith that the economy in Michigan will rebound from this tough economic time and come out on top. During this rough patch, I think the citizens are really learning how to become innovative again."

We couldn't find a single institute of higher learning in Michigan that does not offer something for students considering going into business for themselves.

Michigan State University offers a specialization in entrepreneurship, for instance, while both Washtenaw Community College and Hope College offer entrepreneurship certificates. Cleary University's BBA in entrepreneurship requires courses in entrepreneurship; creativity and innovation; marketing the new business; new business finance; and negotiations. Central Michigan University also offers a major in entrepreneurship that prepares students to begin or take over a business or work in a not-for-profit organization. Kettering University last month received a national award from the Kern Entrepreneurship Education Network (KEEN) for teaching students how to become innovators. Kettering's "Entrepreneurship Across the Curriculum" program will eventually expose all students to entrepreneurship and innovation concepts multiple times during their college years.

Each fall, U-M's MPowered Entrepreneur Club holds 1,000 Pitches, a campus-wide entrepreneurship competition where students can pitch their ideas for new inventions, businesses and non-profit organizations. The winning pitches in each category received $1,000.

"MPowered's goal for the 1000 Pitches competition was to get Michigan students thinking entrepreneurially, and to prove to them that you don't have to be an engineering or business student to start a business," said club president Lauren Leland.

Winners included a group of six graduate engineering students who want to create a device that removes the clots that become lodged in the blood vessels of stroke patients; a student who pitched the idea of a vibrating metronome that would attach to a musician's arm so he or she could keep beat individually without the distraction of trying to hear a traditional metronome; and a student who pitched the establishment of a Renewable Energy Science Foundation in the state that would promote renewable energy research.

Students want to stay in Michigan.

"They just don't know where they can go," said Doug Neal, director of The University of Michigan College of Engineering Center for Entrepreneurship (CEF), which was formed two years ago to facilitate an entrepreneurial mindset within U-M.. "Our small businesses in the area – which are the economic driving force of the future – can't seem to get access to this talent."

So U-M recently held its third annual MPowered Career Fair, where about 2,000 students across all majors learned about getting jobs and internships with 80 small companies and start-up firms.

"That was just one example of the many programs we have to stop the brain drain and increase economic development and entrepreneurship," Neal said.

Neal is a self-described "serial entrepreneur" who moved back to Michigan from California to raise his family. He said the center's 30 programs have helped more than 3,000 students and helped facilitate hundreds of student ideas into more than 30 student companies in Michigan.

As an example, he cited Mobiata, an Ann Arbor company founded in December of 2008 that creates top-selling mobile travel applications. Mobiata was founded by Ben Kazez, a Minnesotan who heard about all the exciting things happening in Ann Arbor. He moved here, connected with students in the U-M Business Accelerator (TechArb), and hired several of them to take his company to the next level, Neal said.

By The Center for Michigan - February 25, 2010 - By Jo Mathis

Small businesses employ half of the private workforce and generate about 70 percent of the country's new jobs each year. But about 40 percent of native Michigan college graduates are now leaving the state to find work. Hoping to put a plug in that brain drain, Michigan colleges and universities now offer classes and majors in entrepreneurship, as well as conferences, competitions, and programs devoted to the independent spirit. A prominent University of Michigan economist thinks this is a very good idea.

"I fear that most people who have lost their jobs are going to need to create their own new jobs, and not wait for some business to hire them," said Donald R. Grimes, senior research associate at U-M's Institute for Research on Labor, Employment and the Economy. Grimes believes students in many fields should take entrepreneurship courses, and he says the focus on re-training at all community colleges should be broadened to include entrepreneurship.

Eastern Michigan University started a major in entrepreneurship in 1998-99, and its College of Business recently held its annual entrepreneurship conference to show students how to get started in a variety of fields. EMU junior Melissa Heatlie hopes to eventually earn an MBA with a concentration in entrepreneurship at EMU. She's not sure if she'll stay in Michigan. "But one thing is certain," she said. "I have faith that the economy in Michigan will rebound from this tough economic time and come out on top. During this rough patch, I think the citizens are really learning how to become innovative again."

We couldn't find a single institute of higher learning in Michigan that does not offer something for students considering going into business for themselves.

Students want to stay in Michigan.

So U-M recently held its third annual MPowered Career Fair, where about 2,000 students across all majors learned about getting jobs and internships with 80 small companies and start-up firms.

"That was just one example of the many programs we have to stop the brain drain and increase economic development and entrepreneurship," Neal said.

U-M has experienced tremendous growth in research over the last 10 years, Neal said.

"So the level of innovation is rising consistently, yet the opportunities to innovate and create and effect change locally have never been greater," he said. "In many ways our efforts to foster entrepreneurship within the university are to address both those needs. To help take advantage of the tremendous technology and innovation that’s happening. And to stimulate economic growth in the area."

Heatlie has discovered lots of organizations willing to help the new entrepreneur get started, including SPARK; Bizdom; the SBTDC (Small Business & Technology Development Center); and B Side: The Business Side of Youth.

"I think if citizens learn to utilize these resources to harness their innovations and ideas, then the future of Michigan is brighter than most may think," she said. ng consistently, yet the opportunities to innovate and create and effect change locally have never been greater," he said. "In many ways our efforts to foster entrepreneurship within the university are to address both those needs. To help take advantage of the tremendous technology and innovation that’s happening. And to stimulate economic growth in the area."

"I think if citizens learn to utilize these resources to harness their innovations and ideas, then the future of Michigan is brighter than most may think," she said.

: Senate Passes Lifetime Benefits Ban -- 1:09 p.m.

2010-02-24T14:12:00.000-05:00

www.mirsnews.com/alert.php?alert_id=345

The Senate today passed a ban on the so-called lifetime benefits for future lawmakers, HB 4194 sponsored by Sen. Dian SLAVENS (D-Canton). The bill moved from the Reforms and Restructuring Committee earlier today. On the floor, it passed 28-10. It was vociferously opposed by Sen. Bruce PATTERSON (R-Canton), whose statement was adopted by many senators as their "no" vote explanation. "We are destroying this institution and we should be ashamed," Patterson declared.

Sen. Mickey SWITALSKI (D-Roseville) offered an amendment to tie-bar the bill to SB 0133 Sen. Wayne KUIPERS (R-Holland) that establishes a graded premium.

It failed on a mostly party-line 16-22 vote. Switalski said that the Kuipers bill was better reform that put lawmakers on the same footing as other public employees. "This bill goes too far," said Switalski of HB 4194. "I think lifetime health care benefits are wrong and must end." Kuipers said he didn't support the amendment. Switalski's amendment would "weaken" HB 4194, he said. "I think the drastic time that we're in . . . requires us to take drastic measures,” Kuipers said.

Sen. John PAPPAGEORGE (R-Troy) said it didn't make sense to tie-bar the legislation because it was a different issue.

He said there should be a substitute. Switalski said he had a substitute and would offer it Pappageorge would back him, but there didn't appear to be any interest in doing so. Sen. Deb CHERRY (D-Burton) said no lawmaker gets lifetime benefits, as lawmakers qualify for health care from ages 55 to 65 until they are Medicare-eligible. "It's part of the rhetoric, but it's not the truth," she said.

Sen. Gilda JACOBS (D-Huntington Woods) said that there might be public pressure for things that aren't the right policy. What lawmakers really should be focusing on is eradicating poverty, she said. "We know how angry and rightfully so people are in Michigan. We know what the pollsters are saying." She asked lawmakers to remember an old saying: “Don't spit in the water because someday you might have to drink it.” HB 4194 is tie-barred to SB 0132 sponsored by Kuipers, which would eliminate health care coverage for the retired judges and state executive officials who are elected after Nov. 1, 2010.

Today's Contingent Workforce

2010-02-24T13:55:00.002-05:00

The temporary or contingent workforce is the fastest growing segment of the national workforce in today's economy. Contingent workers are those who are hired through staffing firms or leasing companies and whose jobs are structured to last only a certain length of time. The contingent workforce may include part-time temporary workers, independent contractors, consultants, contract employees, leased employees, and direct hires. Other than some leased long-term employees, most contingent workers are considered "temporary" and therefore the terms "contingent" and "temporary" are often used synonymously. While most companies hire only a few contingent workers at a time, some firms may lease their entire workforce on a quasi-permanent basis

Using contingent workers may provide employers with flexibility and cost-savings. However, there are numerous legal and practical considerations that employers must take into account before utilizing contingent workers.

Legal Points that need to be covered:

Employee or independent contractor? If a contingent worker is an employee, then the employer has a variety of obligations under federal and state law. The individual may be an employee of both the company and the staffing agency.

At will. Are contingent workers at will? If there is a contract, is it in writing? In the absence of a written document that states either that the worker is at will or the terms of employment, the company may face a claim of an oral employment contract.

Immigration laws. Contingent workers who are employees must still be qualified to work in the United States. If you obtain contingent workers through an agency that employs them, you can require the agency to confirm the individual's right to work in this country. If you attempt to use contingent workers as "independent contractors" to avoid the I-9 form, please keep in mind that the Immigration Service may maintain that the worker really is your employee, and that you are still responsible for completing an I-9.

Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). Contingent workers who are employees are to be provided a safe work place under OSHA standards. Contingent workers who are not employees may be able to sue for negligence if harmed at your workplace.

Discrimination laws. Generally, if discrimination laws apply to you, they protect not only your regular full-time employees, but also contingent employees and some independent contractors. EEOC looks at the following factors to determine if a contingent worker is an employee or an independent contractor.

For additional information, please contact Tammy Hancock at 616-538-7100 or thancock@gabridgeco.com.

For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com.

Online Training and Free Article on Age Discrimination Available from MSU

2010-02-24T13:23:00.004-05:00

If your workforce is aging (like the rest of us), you may need to read the latest of our free articles available on adverse impact claims by employees protected by the Age Discrimination in Employment Act. This article describes regulations which have just been proposed by the EEOC on how an employer can avoid liability if a decision is based on a reasonable factor other than age.

Webinars Available in Your Office

Two new webinars will provide you with information on how to manage HR records, including privacy protections, and additional information on the legal rights of an aging workforce.

Personnel Recordkeeping and Privacy

Do you have every piece of paper ever put in employees’ personnel files? Do you know what you are legally required to keep and how long you must keep it? Do you know what information you can share and what must be kept confidential? This webinar will cover various aspects of personnel recordkeeping and privacy in both the private and public sector. Does include FOIA.

Presenter: Dr. Tina Riley
When: Thurs., March 11, 2010

Employment Laws Affecting the Aging Workforce

As the average age of the workforce in the U.S. rises, issues of age discrimination arise from both the layoff or discharge of employees as well as the provision of benefits. In addition, restrictions on offering or changing benefits under the Employee Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA) will be considered. We also look at the implications of the amendments to the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) for older employees.

Presenter: Stacy A. Hickox, J.D.
When: Thurs., April 22, 2010Live webinars run from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. EST. Only $50 each! Ask questions of the instructor!

E-Guidebooks with copies of slides presented and many links to electronic resources are included with each webinar. Webinars can be viewed from any computer with internet access. If you miss the live presentation, you can view a recorded version after the live presentation.

All webinars are approved for 1 hour of continuing education credit.

Questions about registering?

Contact Carrie Mejorado at comclm@msu.edu or (517) 355-9592.

2010-02-24T12:42:00.000-05:00

2010-01-20T13:30:00.001-05:00

Give 'em What They Want Today!

"Retailers have complained incessantly about unfair competition from e-commerce stores," writes Mark Riffey at the Business is Personal blog, "but not enough have done something about it."

Online shopping is undeniably convenient and efficient. After all, customers can browse, comparison-shop and make purchases from the comfort of their favorite chair. But—despite all the talk of instant gratification—there's one thing no e-commerce retailer can do: give their customers a non-digital product right now. Even with a pricey up-charge, most online stores can do no more than promise next-day delivery.

According to Riffey, "Instant gratification (or close enough) happens when I can drive 18 minutes, walk into the store, plop down my Bert and Ernie-branded Mastercard and walk out with a product under my arm after being helped by a salesperson or clerk who acts like it matters that I walked into their store."

"Retail stores often fail because they don't exist to serve the customer, or they don't recognize that the reason for getting a sale is to get a new customer," Riffey notes. "[T]hink of what the customer is trying to accomplish and help them do so," he advises. "Next time, they might think of you again—and you might have the item they need in stock."

The message for local stores here? If you're an offline retailer competing with online rivals—a challenge compounded by a down economy—play to the strength of instant gratification. Keep your shelves stocked and provide quick, helpful service that goes above and beyond what anyone with an Internet connection can get.

The Po!nt: Retailers can win this battle face-to-face. Compete in the downturn by making your brick-and-mortar store a more convenient and immediate option than your online-and-virtual competition.

Source: Business is Personal. Read the full post here.

Give 'em What They Want Today!

"Retailers have complained incessantly about unfair competition from e-commerce stores," writes Mark Riffey at the Business is Personal blog, "but not enough have done something about it."

Online shopping is undeniably convenient and efficient. After all, customers can browse, comparison-shop and make purchases from the comfort of their favorite chair. But—despite all the talk of instant gratification—there's one thing no e-commerce retailer can do: give their customers a non-digital product right now. Even with a pricey up-charge, most online stores can do no more than promise next-day delivery.

According to Riffey, "Instant gratification (or close enough) happens when I can drive 18 minutes, walk into the store, plop down my Bert and Ernie-branded Mastercard and walk out with a product under my arm after being helped by a salesperson or clerk who acts like it matters that I walked into their store."

"Retail stores often fail because they don't exist to serve the customer, or they don't recognize that the reason for getting a sale is to get a new customer," Riffey notes. "[T]hink of what the customer is trying to accomplish and help them do so," he advises. "Next time, they might think of you again—and you might have the item they need in stock."

The message for local stores here? If you're an offline retailer competing with online rivals—a challenge compounded by a down economy—play to the strength of instant gratification. Keep your shelves stocked and provide quick, helpful service that goes above and beyond what anyone with an Internet connection can get.

The Po!nt: Retailers can win this battle face-to-face. Compete in the downturn by making your brick-and-mortar store a more convenient and immediate option than your online-and-virtual competition.

Source: Business is Personal. Read the full post here.

2010-01-07T14:54:00.001-05:00

Five Ways to Build Trustâ��and Tipping Points for Choice : MarketingProfs http://ping.fm/MdMTg

2009-12-10T16:54:00.001-05:00

Credit crunch, lack of spending will delay hiring
New payroll data indicate that the worst of the job-cutting is over at small businesses, but experts predict that the credit crunch and lackluster consumer spending will delay hiring. SurePayroll data indicate that employers are tapping more independent contractors to take up slack, the National Federation of Independent Business' latest optimism index remained below 90 and a Discover Financial Services survey indicated that consumer spending is the No. 1 concern of small-business owners. BusinessWeek (12/4)

2009-12-10T15:18:00.001-05:00

Advice to entrepreneurs: Don't trust blindly
Entrepreneurs and venture capitalists need to "trust, but verify" when it comes to avoiding falling victim to massive fraud, advises Jeff Bussgang. His three tips: Form an audit committee, make the chief financial officer responsible to the board and have board meetings without the CEO present. BusinessWeek/The New Entrepreneur blog (12/4)

2009-12-10T13:40:00.001-05:00

Beating the big box: shop small, shop local for the holidays
From Small Business Association of Michigan Newsletter - I did a radio interview this week and the host challenged me to explain why anyone would shop at a small retailer this holiday season when prices are almost always lower at a “big box” store. My reply was that many shoppers are tired of buying the same old generic products. You can get an iPod for about the same price anywhere – what’s the difference if you get it from Target or Wal-Mart? Shoppers instead are craving a genuine, unique purchasing experience. And what’s more unique than a small retailer that provides outstanding customer service, personal contact with the owner of the store and one-of-a-kind products? (MR)

House Votes to Extend Estate Tax

2009-12-10T09:06:00.000-05:00

On December 3, 2009, the House approved the "Permanent Estate Tax Relief for Families, Farmers, and Small Businesses Act of 2009." The bill would make permanent the present-law estate, gift, and generation skipping transfer tax laws in effect for 2009. This would cancel the one-year repeal of the estate tax that is scheduled to begin next month. After 2010, the current law has the estate tax rate reverting to a 55% rate on estates larger than $1 million. The current bill, however, would make the highest estate and gift tax rate 45% and exempt estates smaller than $3.5 million from the estate tax. With basic estate planning, a married couple will be able to exempt $7 million from the estate tax under the new bill.
For additional information, please contact Bethanie Pollock at 616-538-7100 or bpollock@gabridgeco.com.

For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com.

Click Here to Join Our Mailing List

2009-11-25T14:39:00.001-05:00

Happy Shopping from www.BuyMichiganNow.com Nov 25, 2009

Our 2009 Holiday Gift Guide Is Out!!!!!

The 2009 version of our Holiday Gift Guide is bigger and better than ever with 101 Holiday Gift Ideas! We hope you will find gifts to buy, and beyond that, we hope we help you discover some amazing new Michigan companies so that you can help us support them all year round. This holiday season as you shop for food and gifts, please live up to OUR PLEDGE and keep as many of your dollars here as you can. TOGETHER WE ARE REVITALIZING THIS GREAT STATE!! Happy Thanksgiving--happy holidays. Now please check out our 2009 HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE!

2009-11-19T11:45:00.001-05:00

We’re Dreaming Big!

On October 14th, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce launched the free enterprise campaign, American Free Enterprise. Dream Big. This unprecedented national campaign, one of the most significant in the Chamber's nearly 100 years, calls on Americans to embrace the essential role that free enterprise plays in the success of our country.

The greatest challenge we face as a nation is reviving our economy, restoring the 7 million jobs lost to the current recession, and creating the 13 million new jobs our growing nation will need over the next decade. The campaign is tackling this tremendous challenge head on, through the 20 Million Job Challenge, which will highlight the state-specific jobs needed to meet this goal and encourage policymakers, business leaders, and the public to pledge their support for American free enterprise.

2009-11-11T09:50:00.001-05:00

Conducting an annual human resource (HR) audit is a prudent undertaking for any business. An HR audit may help a company 1) assess whether it is in compliance with current laws and regulations, 2) standardize processes, 3) identify risk areas, and 4) tie human resources to strategic business planning.

An HR audit can be conducted in a comprehensive manner or target certain functions and/or regulations. In general it may be most beneficial to conduct a broad cursory audit to identifying areas of exposure. Upon identification of these exposure areas a program of action to cure or hedge exposure areas is determined along with management. Implementation of the program may be entirely conducted by management or utilize outside experts in whole or in part.

For additional information, please contact Tammy Hancock at 616-538-7100 or thancock@gabridgeco.com.

For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com.

2009-11-10T11:17:00.001-05:00

"Staggering" Crisis in U.S. Education Found in Study

November 10, 2009
Bloomberg
Molly Peterson

More than two-thirds of U.S. teachers disapprove of how their public schools are run and 90 percent say "routine duties and paperwork" interfere with their teaching, a report found.
The U.S. is facing a "staggering" education crisis, said John Podesta, president of the Center for American Progress, which released the study today along with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the American Enterprise Institute.

The report shows the urgent need for a nationwide education overhaul, said Education Secretary Arne Duncan, who is using $100 billion in stimulus funds to try to improve public schools and expand access to college. The U.S. Chamber, while fighting President Barack Obama?s initiatives on health care, energy and financial regulation, has applauded the administration's use of stimulus dollars to spur states to improve education systems.

The study found "only a faint pulse of innovation and reform in our nation's schools," Thomas Donohue, president of the U.S. Chamber, said today at a conference in Washington. "We must turn that into a strong heartbeat."

U.S. schools "just do not have the ability to respond to challenges in effective and efficient ways," said the Center for American Progress's Podesta, who was former President Bill Clinton's chief of staff.

The center is a Washington research group with close ties to the White House. The American Enterprise Institute is a Washington organization that promotes free-market policies. The Chamber is the largest U.S. business association.

Grading the States

About 72 percent of principals surveyed said tenure policies make it difficult to fire ineffective teachers, according to the report.

The report graded each state's performance on eight educational indicators including school management, finance, staffing and the use of data. Less than half the states scored an "A" grade in any of the eight areas, and most received a "C" or a "D" on several indicators.

The report's recommendations included giving principals more flexibility to fire ineffective teachers. Schools should also reward teachers for student-achievement gains and increase classroom time, the report said.

Duncan, who has pushed for such changes, urged U.S. businesses to play a "more active" role in efforts to improve the nation's schools.

"Return on Investment"

"You can invest in education, because it's the best return on investment you will ever make," Duncan said in a speech today at the U.S. Chamber in Washington. "You can help train administrators to run schools efficiently. You can give young people work experience -- both paid and unpaid."

About 38 percent of school-board members have a business background, Duncan said, citing a survey by the National School Boards Association. While that's a "great start," business leaders can do more, he said.

Businesses support the Obama administration's efforts to improve public schools, in part because U.S. companies will need to hire educated workers for 20 million new jobs in the next 10 years, Donohue said.

"We all need employees and we're really worried about that," Donohue said at the conference. "Not to get involved in this is stupid."

A $4.35 billion competitive stimulus grant program, known as Race to the Top, "will be a tremendous catalyst for greater innovation, accountability, and higher standards in American schools," Donohue said. While the stimulus law directs most of the $100 billion in education funds to states under a noncompetitive formula, it also provides more than $5 billion in competitive grants including Race to the Top.

Rewarding States

Obama and Duncan have said the $4.35 billion Race to the Top program will reward states that make the most progress in raising academic standards, boosting teacher quality, tracking student gains and improving failing schools.

The administration wants to incorporate those "four areas of reform" into federal education law, said Duncan, who is working to overhaul No Child Left Behind. The 2002 law, enacted under President George W. Bush, requires states to measure student achievement through standardized tests.

While states can set their own standards to determine what constitutes an adequate education, they can lose some federal funds under No Child Left Behind if they don't show yearly progress toward those goals.

"The one-size-fits-all sanctions dictated by NCLB are not practical for many districts, and the results are mixed at best," Duncan said. "In the worst schools, it leads teachers to devote valuable class time to test preparation, which is not a skill we should teach."

To contact the reporters on this story: Molly Peterson in Washington at mpeterson9@bloomberg.net;

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2009-11-09T15:28:00.003-05:00

House Committee Votes to Weaken Michigan's Medical Liability Laws

Last week, the House Judiciary Committee approved legislation (House Bill 4571) to substantially weaken Michigan's medical liability law, including expert witness and notice of intent requirements. The Michigan Chamber opposed this legislation, introduced by Rep. Mark Meadows (D-East Lansing), because it would subject Michigan's doctors, hospitals and other medical care providers to increased lawsuits and medical malpractice insurance premiums and threaten Michigan citizens' access to care.

2009-11-09T15:28:00.001-05:00

House Committee Approves Legislation to Swamp Regulated Business, Trades and Professions with Lawsuits

Last week, the State House Judiciary Committee approved legislation (House Bill 4915), introduced by State Representative Robert Jones (D-Kalamazoo), to create new opportunities for personal injury attorneys to file consumer protection lawsuits against numerous businesses, trades and professions already regulated by, and subject to penalties under, state and federal laws.The bill was approved by a vote of 8 to 5, with State Rep. Tory Rocca (R-Sterling Heights) voting "yes" with the Democrats and two committee members, Reps. Marc Corriveau (D-Northville) and Rebekah Warren (D-Ann Arbor), passing. The bill now moves to the full House for consideration.

2009-11-05T11:41:00.001-05:00

Representative Peter Hoekstra will discuss current national legislative issues at a luncheon on November 16 at Falcon Head 11:30 - 1:00 cost $ 12 rsvp to chamber 796-7649

2009-11-05T08:14:00.001-05:00

is working on creating a Holiday Gala Meeting Agenda and finishing up the donations list this morning. Holiday Gala is only a few weeks away! Invitations should be arriving in your mailbox by today!

2009-11-04T16:30:00.001-05:00

This is your invitation to the 24th Annual Communiy Holiday gala is in the mail. December 4 at 5:30 at the Holiday Inn. Plan now to attend-consider a donation for the auction and help the chamber help you. Tickets at the chamber - call 796-7649

2009-11-04T16:11:00.001-05:00

Join the Leadership Mecosta Class of 2009 and help feed Mecosta County. Buy your bunch of carrots for only $1 at various local businesses

Budgets Signed, But Battle Against Tax Increases Not Over

2009-11-02T14:52:00.001-05:00

The Governor has signed the final budget bills for fiscal year 2010, but the battle to protect your wallet is far from over as Governor Granholm and her fellow Democrats continue to advocate raising taxes to increase government spending. Throughout this budget process, taxpayers were well served by the Senate Republicans as they remained steadfast in their belief that increasing revenue to avoid rightsizing government is not a viable option. While some cuts were no doubt painful, they were necessary to ensure that Michigan was living within its means. As House Democrats and the Governor continue to call for more revenue, the Senate Republicans have a better alternative: they are proposing meaningful reforms to make government more transparent, efficient and cost effective.
The Michigan Chamber has been an active leader in the fight for a balanced budget through the enactment of reforms, not tax increases. We are pleased with the Senate's strong fiscal leadership. At the same time, we are mindful that we must continue our aggressive advocacy throughout the fall session to fight against the job-killing tax-and-spend policies being proposed by those unwilling to make the tough decisions to move Michigan forward

Chamber's Donohue Comments On Free EnterpriseThe

2009-11-02T14:42:00.003-05:00

Associated Press - Even with an economic revival, many U.S. jobs lost during the recession may be gone forever and a weak employment market could linger for years.That could add up to a "new normal" of higher joblessness and lower standards of living for many Americans, some economists are suggesting. Read More Join the Campaign

Health Care Reform Passes US Senate Committee, Ultimate Fate of Employer Mandate, Government-Run Option UnknownLast

2009-10-20T08:07:00.001-04:00

week, the U.S. Senate Finance Committee voted 14-9 in favor of a 10-year, $829 billion health care reform package. The legislation includes an individual mandate and subsidies for low-income individuals and is paid for, in part, by new taxes on high-end insurance plans, insurers, pharmaceutical companies and medical device makers and reductions in Medicare payments. The Michigan Chamber generally considers the Senate Finance proposal to be the best bill to be reported by a Congressional committee to date because it excludes many of the more controversial provisions that are in other House and Senate plans, including an employer "pay or play" mandate and a government-run plan to "compete" in the private marketplace. However, much works remains to be done on this proposal before we can it lend our support.

State Budget Update: Michigan Chamber Continues to Advocate for Spending Cuts, Repeal of the MBT Surcharge

2009-10-20T08:06:00.001-04:00

On balance, the recently-passed state budget is positive for taxpayers as it was crafted by reducing expenditures and not raising taxes. However, Michigan is far from being out of the woods as legislators dipped into the pot of federal stimulus monies to shore up funding and avoid further cuts. At this point, it is up to the Governor and the Democratically-controlled House of Representatives to determine the next steps; both continue advocating large tax increases and want to reopen budget negotiations to redo the plan that was just passed. Further, the House has yet to act upon the MBT surcharge repeal as they are trying to force new spending through supplemental appropriations.

Sixth Annual Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce Expo

2009-10-12T09:28:00.000-04:00

Friday, November 6, 2009
5-8 p.m.
Reed City High school Cafetorium
225 W. Church Street, Reed City

BUSINESS REGISTRATION FORM
Setup begins at 3p.m. Networking among participants from 5-5:30p.m. Open to public from 5:30-8p.m.

_________________________________
Name of Business
_________________________________
Address
_________________________________
City, State, Zip
_________________________________
Telephone
_________________________________
Advertising Contact
_________________________________
E-Mail

This Expo is all about you and your business!
Raffle prizes will be given away. If you would like to participate please donate a $25 gift. You are encouraged to offer giveaways at your table. All tables will be 6 foot in length. You may sell your products.
Payment will secure your reservation. Please mail or drop off your check (payable to Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce) with registration to Reed City Area Chamber of Commerce, 200 N. Chestnut St. P.O. Box 27, Reed City, MI 49677-0027. Registration form and payment is due no later than October 26th.

PRICING (Please check your choice)

Chamber Members

□ $100 Table Only
□ $135 Table with $35 Radio Advertising
□ $150 Table with $50 Radio Advertising
□ $175 Table with $75 Radio Advertising
□ $200 Table with $100 Radio Advertising

Non-Chamber Members

□ $150 Table Only
□ $175 Table with $35 Radio Advertising
□ $200 Table with $50 Radio Advertising
□ $250 Table with $75 Radio Advertising
□ $300 Table with $100 Radio Advertising

Electricity (limited availability)
□ I need electricity for my booth.

**Note: To join the Chamber in advance to the Expo and receive the member pricing, call us or visit our website at www.reedcitycrossroads.com

U.S. Chamber To Launch "Campaign For Free Enterprise"

2009-09-01T10:45:00.000-04:00

This Fall The White House Bulletin The U.S. Chamber of Commerce will begin a massive, multi-year campaign this fall to persuade Americans and political, civic, business, and media leaders that the nation needs to return to the first principles of capitalism, or the economy will be ruined. Tom Donohue, president of the Chamber, told U.S. News and the Bulletin that the group's 'Campaign for Free Enterprise' will emphasize that the answer to America's economic problems is to lower taxes, promote international trade, and formulate policies that help the private sector create jobs. Read more Join the Campaign

Small Business Goaling Report

2009-09-01T10:30:00.000-04:00

It has been a while since our previous newsletter, and a lot has been going on, so I will bring you up to speed as quickly as possible. As you may know, the SBA released its small business goaling report and scorecard on Friday, August 21. The government fell short of its mandated 23 percent small business goal again, coming in at 21.5 percent. The ASBL conducted its own analysis of the data and found that 8 of the top 10 small business contract recipients for 2008 were large firms which received 85 percent of the total dollar amount awarded to the top 10. It looks like business as usual continues as all the usual suspects were included in the data like Lockheed Martin, Boeing, AT&T, Xerox, Hewlett-Packard, GTSI, General Electric, and Staples just to name a few. Keith Girard from Allbusiness.com put out a great story on this, you can read it here: http://www.allbusiness.com/company-activities-management/company-structures-ownership/12743713-1.html.

Regarding H.R. 2568, the Fairness and Transparency in Contracting Act, Congress left for the August recess without moving on the bill, although our sources tell us that we could be seeing movement on the bill in committee this fall. If you have not sent a letter of support to your representatives in Congress, now is time. We need to make our voices heard on these small business contracting issues. I don’t know about you, but I don’t want to see another year where Lockheed Martin gets counted as a small business.
One last note regarding the SBIR program, both the House and Senate have passed reauthorization bills, and now a conference committee is attempting to hash out a single bill, as the two versions are very different. Both bills will allow firms that are majority owned or controlled by wealthy venture capitalists be considered small and eligible for small business grants and contracts. The program was given an extension through a continuing resolution and is set to expire on September 30, 2009 if it is not reauthorized.
I wanted to pass this along for the benefit of you and members, so please share this information. We are reaching out for your help on these issues and are asking you to contact your congressional representatives or we would like to obtain an official statement from your chamber on these matters. If you or your members have any questions or would like more information, please contact me directly. Thank you.
Best regards,
Kevin Baron
Kevin Baron Director of Government Affairs American Small Business League 707.789.9575w 707.789.9580f kbaron@asbl.com www.asbl.com

Caveats of Outstanding Customer Service

2009-08-27T13:16:00.001-04:00

With competition increasing in the Mecosta County Area we are all faced with improving our services and communication with customers. In this tough economy learn how to increase business using outstanding customer service. Bring the entire team for the best results. This program is designed for anyone who works with people. The program will be highly interactive with case studies to practice. You will have fun while learning valuable skills to apply immediately in your service setting and in your personal life.

What you will learn:

- Customer Service Skills 101 – A refresher on 3 core principles
- Communication skills for improved information gathering, listening, and responding to
customers
- Telephone - is it friend or foe?
- Using varied communication tools – email, texting, Facebook, etc. – social etiquette
- 5 things customers do not like
- AND many more………….

Join us for this one-of-kind educational workshop during your Chamber’s next Lunch and Learn Series on Wednesday,September 23, 2009 at the Big Rapids Public Safety Building located at 435 N. Michigan Avenue in Big Rapids at 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Cost is only $20 for Chamber members / $30 non-members and bring your own lunch. Make checks payable to: Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce. Deadline to register is Monday, September 21, 2009. RSVP by calling your Chamber at (231) 796-7649 or events@mecostacounty.com.

2009-08-26T09:11:00.000-04:00

The tax treatment of life insurance premiums can be confusing. Before determining the proper treatment, the following information must be known about the policy: the nature and the type of policy, the beneficiary, the owner and the amount of the premium and death benefit. Key Man Life Insurance Businesses often buy life insurance policies on employees that are important and valuable to the business or as part of a buy-sell agreement of a closely held business. The company is usually the owner and beneficiary of the policy and the employee is the insured. In order for the company to receive the death benefit tax-free the insurance premiums are not deductible by the business for tax purposes. Group-Term Life InsuranceGroup-term life insurance is eligible for special tax treatment. The cost of a policy that qualifies as group-term life insurance is not includible in the employee's income if the coverage does not exceed $50,000. The cost of the coverage over $50,000 (minus the amount the employee pays) is included in the employee's compensation. The solutions for the circumstances discussed can be served with term policies. There are many other forms of life insurance that can be used for estate planning and risk management and can become quite complex. In order to achieve the most tax efficient results of using life insurance, be sure to consult with a competent tax advisor. For additional questions or assistance, please contact Bethanie Pollock at Bethanie Pollock at 616-538-7100 or bpollock@gabridgeco.com. For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com.

ARRA Funding forum

2009-08-20T13:59:00.000-04:00

You have been invited by Governor Jennifer Granholm’s Recovery Office and the Department of Energy, Labor & Economic Growth
ARRA Pathways Out of Poverty Grant
ARRA Health Care & High Growth Grant
ARRA Green Energy Training Partnership Grant
8/27/2009 Delta College - Room S105
*
1961 Delta Road, University Center, MI 48710
Free Parking Available
9:45 am - 10 am Registration
10 am - 11 am Grant Overviews
*
Discussion and resources available from Recovery Office and DELEG Staff
11 am - 12 pm Regional Partnership Breakouts
*
Breakout sessions to build partnership and establish common interest
RSVP:
HasbanyE@michigan.gov
For More Information: (517) 241-2885

Unemployment Extension Legislation Update

2009-08-20T11:06:00.000-04:00

On August 2, 2009 legislation was introduced which would add an additional 13 weeks of unemployment benefits for workers in states where the overall unemployment rate on a three-month rolling average is at or above 9% (currently 20 states), including Michigan. In addition, the legislation would continue provisions in the Recovery Act set to expire at the end of the year, including extended benefits and increasing the amount of unemployment by $25 per week. Look for the House to pass this legislation in early September. We will continue to monitor the pending legislation, and keep you up to date on its progress.If you would like additional information, please contact Tammy Hancock at 616-538-100or thancock@gabridgeco.com.

For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com.

How to Add Social Media to Your Press Release Strategy

2009-08-13T10:11:00.000-04:00

With the explosive growth of social networking sites, small businesses have a great opportunity to gain extra publicity and online exposure by incorporating social media into their corporate press release strategy.
When thinking about a press release strategy for your small business, consider creating a comprehensive plan that includes your web site, online media outlets, and social media sites. For example:
CONTINUE READING>>

Marketing Tips

How Can Twitter Help Your Business?
Although Twitter continues to gain acceptance in the business community as a business communication and marketing tool, I’m still amazed at the number of small businesses that don’t see the value of using this micro-blogging service as a marketing tool for business.
Social networking sites like Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, and YouTube are typically most effective when they are appropriately integrated with each other and with a company’s existing marketing efforts. But Twitter – even when used as a stand-alone social networking strategy – can be a powerful tool in any small business marketing toolbox.
Some of the benefits of using Twitter in your marketing mix include:
CONTINUE READING>>

Building Effective Web Sites

5 Things You Should Know About SEO
The topic of Search Engine Optimization (SEO) can certainly be a complex one, and for many small businesses it seems like talking about SEO is like speaking a completely foreign language – possibly a language from outer space. But there are some key concepts that, while not entirely simple, are vital to understanding the importance of SEO and what it takes to see a web site listed in the top search results.
To help you get a handle on what it takes to improve your web site’s search engine rankings, here are five key concepts that you really should know:
CONTINUE READING>>

Better Business Bureau Updates

2009-08-06T13:10:00.000-04:00

Expert: Social Security needs major fixes. Should we trust it?A host of issues such as health care and national security are plaguing the U.S., but none may be as important as Social Security, which needs a bailout, Allan Sloan writes. Although Social Security is probably safe for another 25 years, it's important to realize that lower-paid people could be in a world of hurt in even less time. The Washington Post (8/2)

Hints of thaw for small companiesOwners of small businesses say they see signs of economic improvement, but they remain cautious. A recent survey found that 30% believe the economy is getting better, up from 26% a month earlier. BusinessWeek (8/4)

Small business, big government, and benefits reform

2009-08-06T11:53:00.001-04:00

By The Center for Michigan - August 6, 2009
Two fresh pieces of news this week illustrate, in completely different ways, the value of considering House Speaker Andy Dillon's plan to overhaul and pool health care benefits for public employees.

First, small business owners got a shock when Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Michigan announced plans to begin rating small employers and charging premiums based on claims experience. The change is likely to result in higher premiums for many small businesses and their employees, according to Crain's Detroit Business.

Dillon's statewide pool could be expanded to allow small businesses and entrepreneurs to take advantage of pooling and gain bargaining power over prices.

Second, Wayne County Commissioners came under fire by the Detroit Free Press for refusing to make benefits sacrifices when many other public workers across the state, and in Wayne County government, had already done so....Dillon's statewide pooling approach could, if successful, assure fairness and consistent coverage levels across borders -- and create economies of scale and bargaining power to the benefit of taxpayers.

A is for AGE

2009-07-31T09:14:00.000-04:00

By what age does a child achieve virtually all of the brain architecture that will
occur during their lifetime?

Answer: 3 years old

74-percent of Michigan voters support investing in early childhood programs - even if it will mean theyʼll have to pay higher taxes.

See the survey results by visiting www.greatstartforkids.org

READY OR NOT, HERE THEY COME

Is Your Business "Fit" Enough to Be Advertised?

2009-07-31T08:28:00.000-04:00

by Barb Lezotte, president of Lezotte Miller Public Relations in Okemos(From SBAM's member-only Focus on Small Business magazine)

In a down economy, “survival of the fittest” may apply to businesses. Those that have gotten by with mediocre customer service and products in a good economy may not fare as well when competition intensifies for a smaller customer base. Businesses that want to get in better shape to compete can’t merely beef up their advertising and marketing efforts. Instead, they should evaluate their relationships with clients and take a critical look at whether their advertising promises match customers’ actual experience.Whether large corporation or small company, every type of business develops a reputation based largely on how it interacts with its key publics – employees, suppliers, customers and clients. A company’s advertising and “image-building” is secondary because customers will constantly compare how they’re treated with the company’s promotion. They will also listen to and observe those in the know – employees and suppliers – to determine if the company’s image-building efforts match reality.All the advertising, public relations and marketing a budget can buy can’t create a positive image for a company if the company can’t deliver product and service satisfaction. The higher customers’ expectations are raised through advertising, the unhappier they will be when a company doesn’t deliver (and they’ll share their story.)
(Read more here)

FastTrac® New Venture™ Informational Session

2009-07-28T10:26:00.000-04:00

FUTURE BUSINESS OWNERS

Interested in comprehensive small business startup training? Not sure if small business is a fit for you? Join us for a no cost informational session that may help you decide.
INFORMATION SESSION: The information session will provide an overviewof the FastTrac® New Venture™ program, cost of theprogram and scholarships that are available.
WHEN: Monday, August 39:00 a.m. - 11 :00 a.m.
WHERE: NCEDO, Inc Newaygo County Economic Development Office4684 Evergreen DriveNewaygo, MI 49337
REGISTER FOR THE SESSION BY: Visiting - www.misbtdc.org/training
Calling - 989.386.6630
KEY OBJECTIVES: Test your business idea; Broaden your understanding of the business; Plan your financial needs to avoid cash flow problems; Structure your business operations for efficiency; Develop entrepreneurial skills by learning from other entrepreneurs

'Cash for Clunkers' details: Five ways to prove your trade-in vehicle is eligible

2009-07-24T12:18:00.000-04:00

by Jonathan Oosting MLive.com
Friday July 24, 2009, 10:00 AM
AP PhotoA sign advertises the government's "Cash for Clunkers" incentive at Tropical Chrysler Jeep in Miami Shores, Fla. on Thursday.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration this morning released final details of the Car Allowance Rebate System, otherwise known as "Cash for Clunkers."
The program, designed to encourage consumers to trade-in older vehicles for more fuel-efficient models, officially begins Monday, according to the government's CARS Web site.
The document finalized qualifications of trade-in vehicles. Keep reading to learn the details and find out how to prove your vehicle is eligible.
1. MAKE SURE YOUR TRADE-IN VEHICLE HAS A FUEL ECONOMY VALUE OF 18 MILES PERS GALLON OR LESS
Don't try to argue this one. The only way your vehicle qualifies is if the fueleconomy.gov Web site says your vehicle gets 18 mpg or less.
The only exception is Category 3 vehicles, which include work trucks rated between 8,500 and 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight.
2. PROVE YOUR VEHICLE IS DRIVABLE
You've got to do two things to prove the vehicle is drivable:
• Show the dealer on the day you trade it in that the vehicle can run on its own power on a public road.
• You also must certify it is in drivable condition
3. PROVE THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN "CONTINUOUSLY INSURED" FOR AT LEAST ONE YEAR
You can prove your car was insured three ways:
• Show one or more insurance cards containing the make, model, model year, and vehicle identification number (VIN) of the insured vehicle, but only if, taken together, the cards display on their face a continuous one-year period of insurance coverage.
• Insurance policy documents (e.g., declarations pages) showing the same information as above.
• A signed letter, on insurance company letterhead, identifying the same vehicle identification information (i.e., make, model, model year, and VIN) of the insured vehicle and the period of continuous coverage.
There are no exceptions for state's that don't require insurance.
4. PROVE THE VEHICLE HAS BEEN REGISTERED FOR AT LEAST ONE YEAR
You can prove this in any of the following ways:
• Show a current State registration document or series of registration documents in the name of the purchaser evidencing registration for a period of not less than one year immediately prior to the trade-in.
• Produce a current State registration document showing registration in the name of the purchaser and a document of title that confers title on the purchaser not less than one year immediately prior to the trade-in.
• Show a current State registration document showing registration in the name of thepurchaser and a document from a commercially available vehicle history providerevidencing registration.
5. PROVE YOUR VEHICLE IS 25-YEARS-OLD OR LESS
You can do this two ways:
• Bring the title
• Show the safety standard certification label that appears on the frame or edge ofthe driver's door in most vehicles
There's one caveat to this rule: Category 3 vehicles, described above, can't be newer than 2001.

WHEN YOU DON'T ADVERTISE, SOMETHING TERRIBLE HAPPENS ...

2009-07-24T12:15:00.001-04:00

As you well know, we are in a very tight market; making it extremely difficult to decide what to do and which direction to take in business. We at Johnson Outdoor take pride in keeping outdoor advertising affordable for small town businesses, and in an attempt to continue this mission we have developed a marketing strategy which will include an “Outdoor advertising stimulus package” on our L E D billboard located on US127 near Harrison, Michigan and Perry Street in Big Rapids, Michigan.
This newest advertising package will offer you the opportunity to advertise on a one year lease (described as 13 – 4 week payment cycles) for only $250. We have restructured the marketing and pricing system to allow you continued monthly exposure at a fraction of the cost. It is our intention through this diversification to make it easier for your business and ours to work together moving forward.
Because this advertising package will be popular to other businesses, we urge you to not hesitate and remember that even though times are tough … we need to be tougher to make our business successful.

We look forward to working together

Johnson Outdoor Staff

You Sample, You Sell . . . That Simple!

2009-07-23T14:33:00.003-04:00

There's nothing better than giving away free samples to get your customers to try, love, and buy whatever it is you have to sell.

Sampling has long been a mainstay of the food industry (I know you love those people giving away samples of cakes, meatballs, sodas, dips, and breakfast bars in the grocery store on Saturday afternoons!) but you find sampling everywhere. Paint stores give tiny packets of paint so you can sample the colors at home. iTunes lets you play 30 seconds from every song on an album before you download it. And clothing retailers even take away display space to provide for sampling - the dressing room.

Why so much sampling? You sample, you sell!

Here are two reasons why giving samples is such a powerful, positive tactic:

1. Sampling proves the value of a product. The customer doesn't just hear that the sour cherry jam tastes good, they experience the amazing taste themselves. They don't just read about how much fun a new board game is, they experience the fun themselves. The customer doesn't merely sit on a mattress in a showroom, they sleep on it for 30 days and experience the comfort for themselves.

2. Sampling takes away risk. By trying a sample, the customer knows for sure that they are going to like a product before they buy it. There's no waffling back and forth about whether the buying decision is a smart one. They have already road-tested the product and know they like it. Or, they know they don't like the product and are happy with their decision not to make the purchase. No wondering if they made the wrong decision by walking away.

Either way, it's great for you. You don't want customers to take home products they end up disliking as soon as they've tried them... You want long-term, deeply satisfied customers!Are you giving free samples?

I challenge you to find ways to give samples of at least some of your products. You'll have happier customers and higher sales.

Couresty of:

Bob and Susan Negen
WhizBang! Training

25th Anniversary Open House August 4th - You are Personally Invited

2009-07-23T10:11:00.000-04:00

DW Video & Multimedia, LLC
Duane & Brenda Weed
5510 Maple Hill Road, Howard City
(231) 937-5420.
August 4, 2009 * 8am to 6pm
Stop by and register to win a Fishing Charter for six provided by Captain D’s Fishing Charter on Lake Michigan.
Plus other Great Prizes.
Bring a friend, business colleague.
Check out the new technology and how your business can benefit.
Video Means Business for You!
Hope to see you there.
dw
--
Duane Weed
Using Today's Media to Market Your Business
Corporate & Special Event Video, Interactive Media (CD & DVD) Web Sites, Streaming Video, Film Transfers, Duplication and more.
Check out our web-site http://www.dwvideo.com (231) 937-5420
Visit our blog at http://www.dwvideo.blogspot.com for marketing tips and tricks with video

Chamber Launches Ad Campaign To Fight Proposed Health Care

2009-07-22T10:53:00.001-04:00

U.S. Chamber of Commerce this week stepped up its advertising and lobbying efforts to combat a government-run public health plan option favored by most Democrats crafting health care reform. The big-business group announced Tuesday that it was launching a print and online advertising campaign -- worth more than $2 million -- in five states and that it was stepping up its grass-roots and political organizing to beat back attempts to include the public plan option in health care reform. The five states are Arkansas, Colorado, Louisiana, Maine and North Carolina. Read more Take Action Now

American Opportunity Tax Credit

2009-07-22T09:46:00.001-04:00

For 2009 and 2010, the American Opportunity Tax Credit expands the tax breaks under the Hope credit for individuals seeking a college education. The credit increases the Hope credit to up to $2,500 of the cost of tuition and related expenses paid during the tax year, including expenditures for course materials-i.e., books, supplies, and equipment needed for a course of study. The credit is available for the first four years of post-secondary education in a degree or certificate program (rather than just the first two years). If you would like additional information, please contact Bethanie Pollock at 616-538-7100 or bpollock@gabridgeco.com .
For more information about our services go to www.gabridgeco.com .

2009-07-20T10:53:00.001-04:00

Employee Free Choice Without Card Check: "Card Check Lite?"U.S. News and World ReportIn an effort to get moderate Democrats in the Senate on board with the Employee Free Choice Act, the key "card check" provision of the bill has been scrapped, The New York Times is reporting. Opponents centered their fight around this section of the legislation, which would allow workers to form unions by signing cards instead of holding a secret ballot election. But the fight isn't over--even if card check is scuttled--as opponents are taking aim at possible revisions.Business interests have argued that card check would make workers vulnerable to union intimidation, while unions argued that the existing process of holding secret ballot elections has left workers open to intimidation and threats from employers. To form a union now, at least 30 percent of workers must sign cards indicating they want a union before they can hold an election, then a majority must vote to organize. During the election process, some employees have been subjected to "threats, interrogation, harassment, surveillance, and retaliation for union activity," according to the Economic Policy Institute, a think tank focused on labor issues that receives some funding from unions.

BBB Small Business Advice: How To Avoid Six Common Advertising Offenses

2009-07-16T13:38:00.002-04:00

Small business owners often have to add the title of Advertising and Marketing Director to their long list of duties and may not be aware of the various laws regarding common advertising claims. Creating an effective advertising strategy isn’t just about where and when ads are placed, but also what claims are being made and the Better Business Bureau is providing guidance about some advertising phrases that can be misleading if not used properly.

According to Ad-ology research, 97 percent of small business owners in the U.S. are concerned about the economy but, regardless, 60 percent plan to spend the same amount on advertising in 2009 as in 2008 and 26 percent plan to increase advertising spending. Perhaps these businesses have been doing their research; a McGraw-Hill study found that during the economic downturn from 1980 to 1985, firms that advertised aggressively had sales that were 256 percent higher than companies that cut back.

“Small business owners recognize that advertising and overall marketing are not the ideal categories for budget cuts in a rough economy,” ,” said Ken Vander Meeden,
BBB-WMI President. “Advertising regulation issues though, are not necessarily something small business owners have time for, but ignorance of truth in advertising laws is not a defense and any business owner engaging in advertising should familiarize themselves with the BBB’s guidelines to help avoid inadvertent violations.”

Following are six examples of commonly used phrases and tactics in advertising that are often misleading when not used properly:

“Free”

The word “free” may be used in advertising whenever the advertiser is offering an unconditional gift. If the shopper has to purchase an item in order to receive the free gift, the advertiser must clearly and conspicuously disclose the conditions. Also, an advertiser may not increase the price of the purchased item, nor decrease quantity or quality in conjunction with the free offer. Additionally, free offers should not be advertised when the item to be sold is customarily a negotiated-priced item such as an automobile or home.

“Save up to…”

Price reduction claims that cover a range of products or services should state both the minimum and maximum savings without a misleading emphasis on the maximum savings. Also, the number of items available at the maximum savings should comprise typically 10 percent of the items being sold unless local or state law requires otherwise.

“Lowest price in town…,” “Our prices can’t be beat…,” etc.

Prices for products and services fluctuate regularly and it can be extremely difficult for an advertiser to claim with certainty that their prices are lower than their competitors. Such claims should be avoided unless the advertiser can provide substantiation.

“Best,” “Most,” “Tops,” and other superlative claims.

Superlative claims can be objective, based on fact, or subjective, based on opinion. Objective claims relate to tangible qualities and performance which can be measured against accepted standards. When making objective claims, an advertiser must be able to substantiate all claims.
Obvious use of puffery, such as an advertiser stating they think they offer the best customer service in town, may not be subject to truth-in-advertising standards. However, advertising is all about trust from the consumer’s perspective and businesses should be vigilant against making subjective superlative claims that are misleading.

“Factory direct,” “Wholesale prices,” “Direct from the maker,” etc.

Claims such as these imply significant savings from the actual price being offered by retailers. These claims should not be made unless the implied savings can be substantiated. Furthermore, claims such as “factory to you” or “factory direct” should not be used unless the advertiser actually manufactures the merchandise or owns the factory where the advertised products are made. Similarly, an advertiser cannot falsely claim to be a wholesaler, nor can an advertiser claim to offer “wholesale prices” or items “at cost” unless the items are being sold at the same price as would be purchased by a retailer for resale.

*Use of Asterisks

Asterisks can be used in advertising if they offer additional information about a word or term that is not inherently deceptive. However, an asterisk or similar reference symbol cannot be used as a means to contradict or substantially change the meaning of the statement. The information referenced by the asterisk should also be clearly and prominently disclosed.
For more guidance on advertising, see the BBB’s Code of Advertising at:

http://www.bbb.org/us/code-of-advertising/.

Small business owners and consumers can file a complaint regarding questionable advertising claims with their BBB at http://www.bbb.org/.

More advice and guidance on small business management and becoming a BBB Accredited Business is available online at http://www.bbb.org/.

BBB Advises Cash-Strapped Small Business Owners Against Using Shelf Corporations to Deceive Banks and Attain Loans

2009-07-16T13:32:00.003-04:00

While businesses find it increasingly more difficult to qualify for loans and lines of credits, small business owners are resorting to applying for loans from behind the façade of shelf corporations. The Better Business Bureau is advising small business owners that, as tempting as these schemes sound, using a shelf company in order to misrepresent your credit worthiness to a bank could be considered loan fraud.

The term “shell company” generally refers to a limited liability company and other business entity with no significant assets or ongoing business activities. The term “shelf company” refers to a shell company that is created and maintains little or no activity - or put on the “shelf” to season. The shelf company can then be sold to someone wishing to start a company without going through steps to create a new one.

Companies that create and sell shelf corporations often recommend to the buyer that they will be able to use the creditworthiness and business history of the shelf company to obtain credit for their business. The companies also recommend that buyers can exploit the age of the shelf company to get government contracts - which usually have requirements for how long the company has been in business.

“Small business owners are finding it harder and harder to attain loans and lines of credit, and relying on a shelf corporation to portray a better picture of financial health and stability is an increasingly enticing, and deceptive, option,” said Ken

Vander Meeden, BBB of Western Michigan President. “Not only could the scheme prove unsuccessful and a waste of money, but the business owner could be found guilty of loan fraud and lose everything they’ve worked so hard to attain.”

While the scheme may be tempting to small business owners who are strapped for cash, the possible outcomes far outweigh the potential benefit. Many banks are growing increasingly stringent when handing out loans and could see through the ruse and deny the loan; which means that the small business owner wasted thousands of dollars on the scheme. Also, the bank will likely require a personal guarantee and since the scheme doesn’t actually increase the business’ creditworthiness, the bank could come after the owner’s personal assets if he or she defaults on the loan. In the worst case scenario, the small business owner could be found guilty of loan fraud, face the penalties and be required to pay the money back.

One such business selling shelf corporations to struggling business owners recently came to the attention of the BBB serving Northeast California. The business was selling shelf companies for a fee of $7,500 upfront or 20 percent of the loan received. Potential borrowers were advised to request a line of credit below $150,000, suggesting that bank underwriting standards at this level are less stringent. The business recommended which banks the borrower should apply to and promised that the borrower will not have to provide business or personal financial statements, income tax returns or personal guarantees, and that the lending financial institution will not pull a personal credit report.

A BBB representative spoke with the owner of the company who admitted that he had 60 other salesmen working across the country selling shelf companies and the secrets to his method for deceiving banks. The BBB spoke with business owners who attested that they had a difficult time getting loans for their small business but successfully received loans under the identity of the shelf corporation.

Instead of resorting to deceptive tactics to get a loan, the BBB advises small business owners to learn more about the Small Business Administration’s new America’s Recovery Capital program which provides no-interest, deferred-payment bridge loans to struggling businesses. Information is available online at www.sba.gov/recovery/arcloanprogram.

For more advice on managing the finances of a small business, visit http://www.bbb.org/

New energy efficiency programs in Michigan offer rebates, incentives to entice customers

2009-07-16T12:25:00.000-04:00

Posted by Sven Gustafson Michigan Business Review July 16, 2009 10:43AM
Sven Gustafson blogs about energy technology for Michigan Business Review.

State and electric utility officials are hoping that a new law requiring greater energy efficiency will help businesses and residents realize the power of green. The message that they hope catches hold is this: By spending money up front – sometimes a lot of money – electricity customers can reduce their carbon footprint and lower their monthly energy bills over time.
The program could also create badly needed jobs in Michigan, as the utilities look for hundreds of contract partners to help them meet their targets. Those contractors in turn would likely sub-contract with specialists in HVAC systems, lighting, energy audits, process engineering and electrical systems.
"We're specifically going to be hiring people here because of" the new law, said Casey Murphy, a manager with Fairfax, Va.-based ICF International, an energy consultancy that expects to open two Michigan offices to help Consumers Energy implement its plans.
DTE Energy Co. and Consumers are rolling out their energy optimization programs and enlisting contractors through a series of trade fairs with the Michigan Public Service Commission, including one today in Grand Rapids and another July 23 in Lansing.
The initiatives are the result of a package of energy reform bills signed last fall by Gov. Jennifer Granholm. Under the law, electric utilities must demonstrate lower electricity sales to customers, starting with 0.3 percent this year and rising each year through 2015.
"The goals are very, very difficult to attain the first few years," said Emmett Romine, manager of energy optimization for DTE, during a trade fair Wednesday in Dearborn. "If you compare these to other states, they're very difficult goals to attain."
DTE and Consumers, the state's largest electric utilities, began implementing surcharges last month to customers to cover the costs of the programs. Each utility is also offering rebates and incentives to customers who elect to install weatherization technology; DTE is offering a maximum $1,500 for residential customers who also get heat through its MichCon subsidiary.
"Over three years of utilizing the program with how much is going to be spent and how much customers are going to put in, you can get up to $1.2 billion in energy savings over the lifetime of those efficiency installments," said Monica Martinez, a Michigan Public Service commissioner. "So $1.2 billion, that's a lot of money."
The programs hold significant promise for industrial and large business users and commercial buildings, which consume the most power and often are the least efficient types of buildings.
Lowering energy bills could help make businesses more competitive, even for those most focused on containing everyday costs and delivering quarterly returns for investors, Martinez said.
"Hopefully with what the state's doing, what the utilities are doing, it'll help complement and incentivize you to do that even more so that you can take advantages of those competitive options of being efficient," she said. "That's a key piece."
But the challenge will lay in communicating a message of energy bill savings to businesses and residents hammered by the state's persistent recession.
"That's our biggest barrier, that customers may understand that over the life of the equipment they may have a very big savings," said Terry Mierzwa, manager of marketing, energy efficiency and research for Jackson-based Consumers.
He estimates the utility's rebates can reduce the premium of purchasing more efficient HVAC, compact fluorescent lights or other equipment by as much as 50 percent. Federal and state tax credits can help further cushion the financial blow, Mierzwa said.
"In terms of customers who are in the market to buy equipment, there has never been a better time to buy equipment because there is a lot of help in clearing that first hurdle," he said.
Consumers has already launched its program for commercial customers and expects to launch its residential program the week of July 27 in conjunction with a comprehensive advertising campaign. It will include a $30 bounty program for customers who agree to let the utility pick up second refrigerators that have outlived their useful lives.
The utility also has enlisted participating retail stores where workers are expected to be knowledgeable in explaining how the various incentives work.
"We plan on having incentives available in some way, shape or form until 2015, when legislators will revisit the law," said Teri VanSumeren, manager of energy efficient solutions for Consumers. "Our programs will be in the marketplace for the foreseeable future."

IRS Releases Guidance and Allocations for New Recovery Zone Bonds

2009-06-23T14:05:00.000-04:00

Two new bond programs were approved by the federal government last week to help encourage economic development in distressed areas. The programs are available for use until January, 2011. Read more at: http://www.dickinsonwright.com/.

Upcoming Chamber Events

2009-06-22T11:12:00.001-04:00

Look what’s happening at your Chamber this week:

Wednesday, June 24th: Lunch & Learn: Topic – Mandatory Sprinkler Systems
hosted by HBA of Mecosta County. Lee Schwartz, speaker. Falcon
Head Golf Club in Big Rapids, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Open to the
public. $5 lunch for non HBA members. RSVP to Chamber (231)
796-7649 or email events@mecostacounty.com.

Thursday, June 25th: Rise ‘n’ Shine Mecosta @ VanDrie Home Furnishings in Big
Rapids, 7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. RSVP to Chamber (231) 796-7649
or email events@mecostacounty.com.

Your Chamber thrives to provide you and your employees with educational workshops and great networking opportunities. We hope you can attend! Please RSVP if
attending by calling (231) 796-7649 or email events@mecostacounty.com.

From The US Chamber of Commerce

2009-06-18T11:14:00.000-04:00

Obama's Financial Regulation Reform:

7 Things You Need To KnowThe U.S. News and World ReportEver since the credit markets began seizing up in the late summer of 2007, the federal government has worked franticly to prevent a full-scale financial meltdown. The Fed has slashed its benchmark interest rate to as low as zero percent and has welcomed dodgy assets onto its balance sheet. The Treasury Department, meanwhile, has taken the once-unthinkable step of buying large ownership stakes in some of the nation's biggest banks. But now, as the financial system begins to stabilize, President Barack Obama faces a second -- but equally imposing -- task: preventing the next banking crisis from ever occurring. To that end, the administration has pledged to overhaul the nation's outdated financial regulatory structure, which has been blamed for failing to prevent the reckless risk-taking that helped trigger the whole mess."It is an indisputable fact that one of the most significant contributors to our economic downturn was a unraveling of major financial institutions and the lack of adequate regulatory structures to prevent abuse and excess," Obama said Wednesday, as he unveiled his much-anticipated blueprint for regulatory reform. "A regulatory regime basically crafted in the wake of a 20th century economic crisis -- the Great Depression -- was overwhelmed by the speed, scope, and sophistication of a 21st century global economy."

From the US Chamber of Commerce

2009-06-18T11:11:00.000-04:00

Chamber's Josten Weighs In On Senate Health Care Associated Press

Hoping to make history, the Senate set off on its major overhaul of the nation's health care system Wednesday, but its first steps were quickly overtaken by fresh cost concerns and partisan anger. An ambitious timetable that called for completing committee action in early summer seemed in danger of slipping away.The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee began work on a bill encompassing President Barack Obama's top legislative priority. It marked the first time since President Bill Clinton's ill-starred attempt in the early 1990s that Congress was tackling such a broad overhaul.

For full article http://www.friendsoftheuschamber.com/news/

BBB Advertising Reminder

2009-06-17T13:40:00.000-04:00

The challenging economy prompts the BBB to remind all businesses to "advertise with integrity". A "Sale" should really be for a limited time offering a real discount.

For advice see the BBB's Code of Advertising at www.bbb.org. Honest ads will always win in the long run.

Ken Vander Meeden, President
BBB of Western Michigan

2009-06-17T10:45:00.001-04:00

Michigan Business Tax (MBT) Penalty Amnesty

On April 2, 2009, Gov. Granholm authorized an amnesty from penalties for a business that underpays MBT quarterly estimated tax payments by 25 percent or less during its first filing year.

For additional questions or assistance, please contact Bethanie Pollock at bpollock@gabridgeco.com.

MBT Surcharge & the Small Business Credit TrapThe MBT surcharge is getting the attention of large taxpayers and Michigan Congressmen. However, many small taxpayers are finding themselves subject to the current 21.99% surcharge calculated on MBT liability. Insurance companies and taxpayers that are eligible for the Small Business Credit are excluded from the surcharge. Many taxpayers that are expecting a Small Business Credit may be disqualified due to officers' compensation or distributive share business income. In addition, these "small businesses" are no longer exempt from the MBT surcharge. The House is currently reviewing a bill that will reduce the surcharge in 2009.

Please contact Jessica Dean at jdean@gabridgeco.com for additional information.

Rise 'n' Shine Mecosta

2009-06-16T14:41:00.000-04:00

Join other Chamber colleagues at Rise 'n' Shine Mecosta on Thursday, June 25, 2009 at VanDrie Home Furnishings in Big Rapids. Meet the professional staff of VanDrie while checking out their showroom 7:30 a.m. - 8:30 a.m. RSVP events@mecostacounty.com.

Business After Hours

2009-06-16T14:35:00.000-04:00

Join us at the Tullymore Clubhouse for Business After Hours ! See their exciting new additions, tour their beautiful brand new models, enjoy great food and network with other Chamber members 5pm - 6:30 pm. RSVP to your Chamber events@mecostacounty.com. Hope you can join us!

Looking for artists for annual art show

2009-06-16T14:27:00.001-04:00

The Mecosta County Area Chamber of Commerce is seeking artists, crafters and antique sellers/appraisers for its annual Labor Day Arts and Crafts Festival.

For more information visit our web-site http://www.labordayarts.com/