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Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Newsletter Issue 11, May 2013
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Photo by Elizabeth Means
Proud Member of:
| Inside This Issue:
| Our Superior Partners. Thank you!
Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Welcomes Isle Royale National Park Service
This summer Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce welcomes Isle Royale National Park Service into the William J. Hodge Visitor Center on College Avenue. Both organizations will be sharing office space to create a welcome center for area visitors with information about Chamber members and to promote businesses within the Cities of Houghton and Hancock. The move, which has been in development the past few months, is expected to take place next month before Ranger III’s passenger service to Isle Royale begins.
“What’s exciting is Houghton City Manager Scott MacInnes has created a win-win-win for the community, the Chamber, and Park Service by consolidating the visitor centers,” said Karyn Olsson, Chamber Board Secretary. “The Chamber and Isle Royale will provide visitor information, share operating costs, and local businesses will be promoted.”
All Chamber activities will continue as planned. The savings in rent and utilities will allow the Chamber to reach some strategic goals more quickly. The move comes at an opportune time while we focus on supporting, attracting, and developing businesses in the Keweenaw.
The park service will still operate the Ranger III from the existing visitor center during the passenger season but will also benefit from the prime location on College Avenue through increased visibility, especially this summer with the expected influx of travelers for FinnFest USA 2013.
This collaboration and consolidation of visitors’ centers will also be valuable to area businesses by allowing the center to put out more information on Chamber members and Houghton/Hancock communities.
New and Returning Members
Board of Directors
2013 Tourism Outlook
Ribbon Cuttings
Business After Hours
Member Spotlight
Pine Mountain Music Festival
Business Announcement Cards
Habitat 2013 Home Build
Professional Development Tips
HICA Increase
Pre-Employment Screening
Business and Event Calendar
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ISSUE #11 MAY 2013 |
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Welcome New Leadership Partners
Superior National Bank235 Quincy StreetHancock, MI 49930p. 906.482.0404
River Valley Bank19795 Sharon AveHoughton, MI 49931p. 906.482.4646
Welcome New Developing Partners
Northern HardwoodsJohn Kantola45807 Highway M26 South Range, MI 49963p: 906.487.6400
Range Bank48345 Hwy M-26Houghton, MI 49931p. 906.487.9680
Welcome New Community Partners
D’s Base CampDon and Donna Jarman40801 N. Highway M26Toivola, MI 49965p: [email protected]
Darrell J. Guitar609 W. Lakeshore DriveHoughton, MI 49931p: 906.370.4545 f: 906.482.2148dguitar@upexpierence.comwww.darrellguitar.myasbagent.com
Halonen Landscaping, Inc.Ben Halonen46109 M26Atlantic Mine, MI 49905p: 906.482.5296 f: 906.482.3352
Harrington Ridge Coal and StoveMatt Arko301 Front StreetHancock, MI 49930p: [email protected]
Miscowaubik ClubDavid J. Kent, President57035 Calumet AveCalumet, MI 49913p: 906. [email protected]
SkyWest Airlines23810 Airpark Blvd.Calumet, MI 49913p: 800.864.8331www.united.com Welcome Back Returning Members
Anderson Welding and Manufacturing
Bay Electric
BHK Child Development
Book Concern Printers
Chassell Bay Cabins
Chassell Township
C-L-K Rotary
Copper Country Intermediate School District
Copper Country Veterinary Clinic
Crampton Surveying
Credit Services, Inc.
Cross Country Sports
Crown Cleaners
D&L Janitorial
Lisa Dunnebacke, Associate
Edward Jones – Steve Zutter
continued on page 5
Board of Directors
Johanna Davis, PresidentOwner,Spirit of the North Wellness [email protected]
Brent Burns, Vice PresidentDirector of Corporate Partnerships, Michigan Technological [email protected]
Greg Seppanen, TreasurerAssistant Vice President / Trust, Superior National [email protected]
Karyn Olsson, SecretaryChief Marketing Officer, Marketing Department [email protected]
Duane AhoCorporate Relations,Finlandia [email protected]
Lisa DunnebackeAssociate [email protected]
Michael ScottPublisher, Daily Mining [email protected] Matt ThyerOwner, Up and Running Technology [email protected]
Glen TolksdorfOwner, Tolksdorf Realty and [email protected]
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Welcome Back Returning Memberscontinued from page 3
Gino’s Restaurant
Gitzen Company
Grant Township
Great Lakes Accounting, PC
GS Engineering
Houghton County Fair Association
Houghton County Memorial Airport
InSight EyeCare
Isle Royale National Park Service
James Sarazin, DDS
Jonathan M. Luse, CPA
Keweenaw Gem and Gift
Keweenaw Mountain Lodge
Goodwill Farm Association
Lakeland Luoma Insurance – Hubbell
Lakeland Luoma Insurance – Laurium
Leveque Agency
McDonalds of Houghton
MD Contracting
Memorial Chapel Funeral Home
Michigan American Water Company
Midwest Loan Services
Miner’s State Bank
Mine Shaft and Rock House Tavern
Moyle Real Estate and Development
Nara Nature Park
Northern Light Cottages
Our Lady of Mercy Health and Rehab
Portage Lake Cabins
Ramada Inn
RC Mechanical
REL Machine
RE/Max Douglass Agency
Rukkila, Negro and Associates, CPAs, PC
Salon Benefique
Sand Hills Lighthouse Inn
Sand Point Charters
State Farm Insurance – Mike Lahti
Suomi Restaurant
Superior Auto Parts
Superior Monogramming
Superior Travel/Travel Leaders
Tadych’s Econo Foods
Tanis, Inc.
Tervo Agency
The Great Escape
The Isle Royale Line
Thermoanalytics, Inc.
The Tire Shop
Tolksdorf Realty and Forestry
Travel Leaders/Superior Travel
Wickley Agency
MSU Tourism Outlook For 2013 Forecasts A 5.5% Increase in Travel Spendingbased on research byDr. Sarah Nicholls and Dr. Dan McColeDepartment of Community, Agriculture, Recreation and Resource Studies Michigan State University
At the Pure Michigan Governor’s Conference on Tourism this April, industry leaders expressed that they expect to see another solid year for Michigan tourism following the success of 2012, including increases in travel spending, hotel occupency, and visits to attractions such as Isle Royale and Pictured Rocks as well as camping at all Michigan State Parks.
While it appears that both in-state and out-of-state travellers are traveling less often, they are also staying longer. Touring has become the fastest growing main purpose for short leisure trips. This is a good match for Michigan which offers opportunities to tour town-to-town, to visit breweries and wine trails, farmer’s markets and antique shops, along with leaf tours and cruising the Great Lakes.
A few wild cards could upset this positive outlook such as if the Sequester causes a recession, a sharp spike in gas prices, the European debt crisis effecting U.S. markets, weather variability, or the war on terrorism.
For more information the full report can be found at http://www.carrs.msu.edu
Chamber President Johanna Davis with conference speaker George Zimmerman, Vice President of Travel Michigan for the Michigan Economic Development Corporation
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Ribbon Cutting for Jackson National Life Insurance Company
The ribbon cutting ceremony for Jackson National Life Insurance Company was held March 6th at the Michigan Technological Lakeshore Center. Jackson National has recently opened a satellite office at MTEC SmartZone. As one of the uppermost annuity providers in America, Jackson National creates innovative retirement solutions for their clients. Based in Lansing, Michigan, they have a rich history of over 50 years in supporting their clients with quality products, assistance, and financial strength.
Ribbon Cutting for Gogebic Community College
The ribbon cutting ceremony for Gogebic Community College was held February 23rd at the Copper Country Mall. While their main campus is on Mt. Zion in Ironwood, this new office in Houghton provides student services for Copper Country residents.
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Web Designand Social Media
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600 Shelden AvenueThird Floor
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THINKING.CREATIVE.IDEAS.
May 16th Golf Outing Cancelled
Due to weather conditions and snow covering the course, our golf outing originally scheduled for May 16th has been cancelled. If you had a team for this outing it will be honored at our Fall outing.
Upcoming Ribbon Cuttings
A ribbon cutting ceremony is a great way to recognize a special event or new business. If you weren’t able to attend a past event, why not the next one?
May 22, 201311:00 am to 12:00 pmCore Wellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine47964 Madeleine Street Houghton, MI 49931
Dr. Phil Pietila is a board-certified chiropractic physician who serves the Copper Country and surrounding areas. He founded CoreWellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine in 2012 to bring the latest in natural healthcare to the Copper Country. What sets CoreWellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine apart is Dr. Pietila’s holistic approach to health that uncovers the cause of ill health.
His understanding of the body’s systems and how they interact with each other have provided him with unique insight into the body’s musculoskeletal structure, biochemistry, and neurology. By using natural, non-invasive tools like Applied Kinesiology, Functional Medicine, and Functional Neurology, he thoroughly assesses all aspects of the patient’s health.
The ribbon cutting ceremony will take place at the Core Wellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine office located on Madeleine Street in Houghton at 11:00 AM Wednesday, May 22nd. Please join the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce in providing Core Wellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine a sincere welcome!
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Successful Business After Hours Co-Hosted by River Valley Bank and Gemignani’s Italian Restaurant
Gemignani’s Italian Restaurant in Hancock was the site of a Business After Hours event on April 24th.Thanks to River Valley Bank and Gemignani’s for hosting the event, and to everyone that made it out!
Free Business Counseling at The Jutila Center for Global Design and Business
HANCOCK, MI – The Finlandia University Jutila Center, Hancock, will offer free business consulting with Roger Woods of Homer Productivity Business Counseling on May 8 and May 20, 2013. To schedule an appointment, please contact Liz Baumann at 906-487-7339 or [email protected].
Upcoming Business After Hours
If you weren’t able to make it to a past event, check out the few that have sprung up over the next month.
May 22, 2013MTEFCU will be hosting an event to be held at the MTEFCU office on Sharon Avenue in Houghton.
May 29, 2013WLUC TV6 will also be hosting an event. Keep an eye on our calendar at www.keweenaw.org/business-calendar/ for further details!
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Chamber Member Spotlight
What is the name of your company and what do you do?Defined Visuals is a full-time video production company based in Hancock. We provide video solutions for businesses who are looking to make a connection with potential customers
and turn them into new customers. We do that by capturing “the experience” a customer receives when they connect with your business. We feature the people who sell the products or services that make your existing customers satisfied customers. Giving a potential customer the opportunity to experience this can turn that potential customer into a new customer. If your business is of the nature that a face-to-face meeting generally means you can make the sale then you really need to be using online video on your website. It’s an opportunity to make that face-to-face connection with a potential customer and give them a taste of what it would be like to be a customer.
What is a typical day/project like for you?On most days you will find me sitting at a computer doing video editing. That’s the bulk of my work because it takes the most time. It’s about turning the scenes that were captured from a video shoot into a cohesive video product that delivers the right message and shows a businesses true personality. In order to get to that point it obviously requires a video shoot which could be another day in my life. An on-location video shoot involves going to a business with lighting, audio capture gear and cameras to get the shots that are necessary to communicate what that business does and how they do it. One of the most important aspects of a video shoot is lighting. Cameras can’t see as well as our eyes so we need to compensate for that with additional lighting. The goal is to make the end result look very natural and appealing. We want to make sure you and your business look and sound good at all times and we do what it takes to make sure that happens.
What do you like most about living in the Keweenaw?There’s something about living in a community that is comprised of two small cities connected by a bridge over a canal. It seems to join people together and I think the cities of Houghton and Hancock are a good example of that. And because of this connection you have a much larger community feel. It creates a very vibrant area to live in which is helped by the fact that we are also college towns so you have that youth that is intermingling with us as well. Add to that the abundance of scenic natural beauty we have all around us. This place is one of a kind. A true treasure.
What do you like most about doing business in the Keweenaw? Has there been any advantage for you to be in this place?I find it very interesting how many successful businesses there are in the Keweenaw and Houghton counties. There is a great infrastructure in place that is designed to attract and grow businesses in the area and make them successful. As a service provider I find that to be an exciting opportunity tobe able to provide content that is necessary to build a better picture of what
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Interested In Getting Involved?
The Chamber is the heart of business advocacy and economic development in the Keweenaw and as such we are working harder than ever for this peninsula we love. It is an incredibly exciting time as we bring our efforts into focus on supporting, attracting, and developing businesses like yours!
For more information on the benefits of a Chamber membership visit our website at www.keweenaw.org or call our office at 906.482.5240 to see how we can help your business launch, grow, and achieve its full potential.
Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce902 College Avenue, P.O. Box 336Houghton, MI 49931
p. (906) 482.5240f. (906) 482.5241e. [email protected]
www.keweenaw.org
www.facebook.com/Keweenaw.Chamber
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Putting it all together to help youlive happier, healthier lives.
Chuck Nelson U.P. Regional
Chief Executive Officer
With over 1,100 employees,Aspirus brings $94 million insalaries, wages, bene�ts and
business operations to thewestern Upper Peninsula
Bringing excellent cancer care to the entire westernUpper Peninsula
Aspirus Keweenaw commits every day to ensuring the patient experience is the very best it can be
Our �ve Pillars of Excellence guide our organizational strength and performance in the community
More than $20 million is planned in facility and technology improvements in the next three years alone
Aspirus operates the region’s top-rated 24/7 MedEvac for critically ill and injured individuals
Our Progress:
Healthcare ExcellenceRegional System Strength
Dr. Ghanem
Dr. Hafeman
Dr. Pherson Dr. Rau
www.aspiruskeweenaw.org
Bringing highly specialized providers in areas such asoncology, cardiology and orthopedics, offering
advanced levels of care closer to home
Aspirus shares talent andresources across our system
to counter the rising costsof health care
Innovative, �rst-in-the-U.P. orthopedic surgeries, plus 24/7 emergency coverage
“As the area’sleading
advocate fornon-profit
health care,we reinvest
every margindollar back
into theorganization
to improvefacilities,services
and staff.”
Introduced water birth as a holistic and natural birthing option
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Member Spotlightcontinued from page 9they do and why they are successful. There are a lot of great stories to be told here which is exciting for a video production company because videos are essentially visual stories.
What would you like to see happen in this area that would further your engagement in the business community, or that could help you to develop and grow as a business owner?I recently learned of a project that existed back in 2009, 2010 to build a video portal to help recruit professional talent to our area. It was a great idea and a lot of planning went into it, but at the time it lacked the required video production resources necessary for it to become a reality. I still think it’s a great idea and would
be willing to be a major contributor if the original entities were still interested and saw value in bringing this back to life. This would be a great opportunity for my business to get more involved with some of the organizations in our area and learn more about how video content can help them make a difference.
I see this portal as being a collection of video stories about professionals in the area today who are active in the community. We could connect those professionals to not only the recreational activities and community events they are involved with, but also to the businesses and organizations who make it possible for them to be here. Not only would this be beneficial to organizations looking to acquire professional talent, but it would also benefit tourism which is an important part of our economy.
Where can we see your work or get a hold of you?To learn more about Defined Visuals visit our website at DefinedVisuals.com or call me at 906-281-4857.
To see examples of our work visit our video portfolio at Video.DefinedVisuals.com. There you will find videos ranging from recent events such as the CopperDog 150, recruitment videos we recently produced for Finlandia University, as well as some of the awesome sights we see in our area such the Aurora Borealis and Copper Harbor fireworks. The portfolio is organized to make it easy to find specific video content.
Feel free to contact me at any time if you have questions, comments or would just like to connect.
Goodwill Community Grounds CrewServices done the way you want it done.
Fully InsuredVery Reasonable Rates
DependableDaily / Weekly / Occasional Work
Please Call For More Information(906) 482-6142
Goodwill IndustriesServing Upper Michigan & Northern Wisconsin
23390 Airpark BoulevardCalumet, MI 49913
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Growing Together
banking insurance investments mortgage
Pine Mountain Music Festival Announces 23rd Season: Music from Many WatersPine Mountain Music Festival announces its 23rd season – Music from Many Waters. Opening on June 10 and concluding on July 13, the Festival presents 35 performances across nearly a dozen towns in central and western Upper Peninsula and north eastern Wisconsin. We’ll bring you a mix of old and new, familiar and unfamiliar, each concert a jewel to inspire, entertain and sparkle.
The three opening galas will be similar in format to our past galas. Lucy Thrasher, emcee-extraordinaire, will introduce our 2013 Resident Opera Artists and one local guest artist, who will sing opera and musical theatre selections in an engaging ambience.
After last year’s stunning musical leadership in Sondheim’s A Little Night Music, Festival regular Jerry DePuit returns to present a program of his favorite selections from the revues of the past ten years – Irving Berlin, Jerome Kern, Stephen Sondheim, Leonard Bernstein, and others will be heard. “Revue of Revues: Highlights from Seasons Past” features our Resident Opera Artists, as well as a cello and violin to support Jerry’s brilliant arrangements.
The Bergonzi String Quartet, in support of FinnFest and with their usual flair and sensitivity, will offer Sibelius’s seldom-heard string quartet. This is a rousing work, and it will be paired with one of Beethoven’s great string quartets.
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Also in support of FinnFest, we are proud to join forces with the Keweenaw Symphony Orchestra (KSO) to present a Finnharmonic Symphony orchestra concert with all Finnish music. KSO’s own Joel Neves conducts the concert, which will feature guest artists Ameriikan Poijat, Evan Premo in Jukka Linkola’s Bass Concerto (commissioned by John and Pauline Kiltinen for FinnFest 2005), music of Sibelius, and much more. This will be a special event as we welcome back a symphony concert into our programming.
This summer we revisit the triumph of the 2011 U.P. opera commissioned by PMMF, Rockland, through two exciting cinematic screenings. The screening of Rockland will be shown in its entirety. Also, Suzanne Jurva’s documentary Yoopera! on the making of Rockland and its attendant Story Line Project will be previewed.
The Festival brings back organist David C. Jonies, who brings his illustrious playing after a much-loved concert in our 2007 season. He will perform Handel’s Organ Concerto in B flat major, Bach Sonata no. 2, and works by Saint-Saëns, Cabanilles, Shearing, and more.
Featuring our four Resident Opera Artists and one local guest artist, “Viva Verdi!” is an opera concert led by Festival favorite Stephen Sulich featuring the music of the incomparable Giuseppe Verdi to celebrate the 200th anniversary of his birth. The concert will include selections from La Traviata, Rigoletto, Falstaff, and more.
After last year’s enthusiastic response to our UPstarts! series, we will again offer a concert to support the
professional ambitions of our regional musicians; they are first-rate, with bright futures ahead of them. This year we feature singers and instrumentalists from L’Anse, Escanaba, Marquette, Negaunee and Calumet.Louis Nagel, who delighted PMMF audiences in 2008, returns as solo pianist to perform works by Mozart,Bach, and Schubert.
The season features a much-anticipated new concert, Common Ground Baroque Ensemble, a trio of fineBaroque instrumentalists on the cello, violin and theorbo, who will play time-tested Spanish, Italian, andFrench music.
To produce the 2013 season, we have begun a critical campaign to raise $150,000 during the coming monthsto ensure our continuation. As with any worthy endeavor that dares to be a vital part of the community, thereare challenges to be met. Only with your help can we sustain the high level of optimism and purpose soevident in our history and know that our best days are ahead.
The Pine Mountain Music Festival presents a season of opera, symphony and chamber music each June-July inthe Dickinson County area, the Marquette area, the Keweenaw Peninsula, and other smaller towns in theUpper Peninsula and northeastern Wisconsin.
Headquartered in Hancock, Michigan, it is supported bydonations, ticket sales, and grants. Visit the web at pmmf.org, or call 888-309-7861 for more information.
EventsAll events at 7:30 pm, unless otherwise noted Dickinson Area Keweenaw Area Marquette Area
Opening Galas June 11 (5 pm) June 13 (6:30 pm) June 10 (5:30 pm)Revue of Revues June 16 (3 pm) June 17 June 18
FinnHarmonic Symphony June 20 (8 pm)June 23 (2 pm)
Bergonzi String Quartet June 24 June 22 June 26Yoopera! Documentary Screening June 22 (1 pm)Rockland the Opera Screening June 22 (3 pm)David C. Jonies Organ Recital June 26 July 2 June 28Viva Verdi! June 29 June 27 July 1UPstarts! July 3 July 11 July 7Louis Nagel Piano Recital July 6 July 9Common Ground Baroque Ensemble July 10 July 13 July 12
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Habitat for Humanity Announces 2013 Home Build in L’Anse
L’ANSE—Copper Country Habitat for Humanity, in partnership with Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, is pleased to announce their 2013 home site, located at 212 E. Ford Avenue in L’Anse. Jay and Renae Loman have generously donated the property for the first Copper Country Habitat for Humanity home to be built in Baraga County.
This year’s future Habitat homeowner is Justin Dove. Mr. Dove is a widower with three children, who range in age from 5 to 10 years old.
This year, Copper Country Habitat for Humanity has been awarded a grant from Thrivent Financial, providing 50 percent of the cost of construction. This grant is made possible through a unique partnership between Thrivent Financial and Habitat for Humanity International.
Volunteers will begin work on the site, located at the corner of Ford Avenue and 5th Street, in early June. Work will continue through the summer.
Individuals, youth groups, church groups and others are encouraged to volunteer. For information on volunteering or making a donation, please call (906) 482-5376 and leave a message with a return phone number or send an email to [email protected].
Business Announcement Cardsvia Designotype Printer@Work
When many people think of announcement cards, they think of personal celebrations such as graduations, babies, or weddings. However, announcement cards are also a great tool that can help promote your business. From new product launches, corporate anniversaries, company picnics, upcoming sales or promotions, new employees, moving information, awards banquets, retirement parties, and other celebratory events, announcement cards are a great way to help promote your big news.
Here are a few ideas for creative announcement cards:
When creating save the date announcements for upcoming events, consider including a sticker for recipients to add to their calendar as a convenient added reminder.
Personalize new employee announcements by including a professional photo and a copy of their business card.
Create excitement when announcing new products by designing your announcement with a tear-away coupon or exclusive offer that encourages your recipients to try it.
Increase awareness without increasing postage by creating your announcement card as a statement stuffer you can insert into regular mailings.
Consider creating a “grand opening” or “we’re new to the neighborhood” announcement card designed as a door hanger to let area residents and businesses know you are new in the area and encourage them to stop by.
If you have something exciting to announce, we’d love to help you get the word out. Stop by Designotype Printers today or find us on the web at designotype.com!
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Professional Development Tips from an Unlikely Sourceby Elizabeth Means
We hear so often about social media these days that it almost seems like old news. Almost. There is a plethora of information on how to make social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter, and Foursquare work for your business, but could it be a little more than that? Some of the best practices in social media appear to be professional development tips in disguise. Let’s take a look:
Maintain VisibilityBy social media standards this would mean to post tweets or blog entries often. It’s been shown that the highest rate of re-tweeting and re-posting takes place in the afternoon. While that is directly applicable to maintaining an online presence for your company, what about at your brick-and-mortar shop? You could try taking part in one of the festivals this summer, such as FinnFest, Bridgefest, or Brewfest. When you’re a sponsor or a host make sure you have some goodies to hand out that will get people to come to your business. Partaking in community networking opportunities is also a great way to get toknow your customers and increase awareness for your company. There are several in the Keweenaw including Business After Hours, Eggs and Issues, and the Keweenaw Young Professionals meetings.
Rally SupportBy engaging with your community on social media sites and having conversations with your customers you are far more likely to create a buzz around your company (and maintain visibility), and those fans could turn into future sales. How does this translate to your non-digital life? Are you interested in launching into a new line of products? We all know it’s always easier with a crowd. Talk to your customer base or launch a Kickstarter campaign. See what they think of your ideas. You might be surprised at how willing they are to help you achieve those goals. If your objectives require a bit more backing, there are other resources in the Keweenaw that can help you out, such as the MTEC SmartZone, the Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance or the Entrepreneur Support Center. In any case, the more people know about what you are doing the more they may want to join in, or spread the word, to help you get there.
Show Some LoveIt pays to appreciate your customers and fans. Online you can give a little back through Facebook likes, following those who talk about you on Twitter, or offering contests and gift certificates. This could translate into talking to and
getting to know what your customers do. Subscribing to the services of customers that might be other business owners in your area is beneficial for both of you and supports your community and economy by keeping it local. Another way to give back could be to host a fundraiser for groups or local organizations. Picking a day to give a percentage of your sales to a cause your patrons can get behind is a good incentive that could increase your traffic.
Share Unique ContentYour product is unique and social media experts think your online content should be too. Whenever possible share interesting or notable links online. This could be about your company, your industry, or your community. People will come to rely on you as an expert in your chosen field and will be more likely to read, and share, your content with others. Having unique content for your store or business could a bit trickier. Being creative with your advertisements, print materials, and sales displays is important but you could take it one step further. Try making a float or banner and partaking in a parade. This is a great opportunity to toss gift certificates into the crowd, increasing awareness of your business and driving traffic to your store.
Share What You Are Doing and Where You AreSocial media of all types has become a speedy news-gathering tool allowing people to stay up-to-the-minute on their favorite topics or personalities. One of the side effects of this is that people feel like they can get to know you. Sharing a bit about yourself or what you are doing can let your audience feel “in-the-know” and engaged. Additionally, the more your customers know about you, where you get your inspiration, the thought and passion that went into your products or services, the more likely they are to see them as quality, valuable things worth purchasing. Within your company, try keeping a chalk board or bulletin board where you put updates for your customers to peruse. You might also use space near a cash register to post up-to-date news for a good conversation starter.
Be As Concise As PossibleSocial media sites generally promote short snippets of information where being concise is a necessity, but it is relevant in any communication. By getting your message across clearly and concisely you leave little room for misinterpretation and at the same time won’t bore your audience. Online or offline this leaves people room to leave comments or ask questions beginning a conversation that could help you share what you are doing, rally their support and hopefully get them talking your business.
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Tip #543 - Give ‘Em Your Best by Bob and Susan Negan of WhizBang! Training
Dear Tip of the Weeker,
Susan and I took a vacation last week, but we can never quite take our marketing hats all the way off. (Even if they are sunhats!)
So this week I wanted to share an experience that we had while we were on spring break... While we were on the Big Island of Hawaii we wanted to go snorkeling so we went to a well-known and well-publicized dive shop called Snorkel Bob’s to rent some gear for the day.
There was a big hanging sign in the shop with good, amusing copy that offered three snorkel gear packages; The Budget Crunch Special (good), The Split Level (better), and The Ultimate Truth (best). We love good-better-best package pricing - it’s a GREAT way to increase your items per sale and your average sale. Plus, it makes the buying decision very easy for your customer. The easier it is to buy, the more often you’ll make a sale.
Lesson #1 from Snorkel Bob’s: Bundle best-selling items and their add-ons into good, better, best packages. And make a great sign.
We like to snorkel but don’t get the chance all that often so we decided
to go for Snorkel Bob’s Ultimate Truth package - it was only $9 for the whole day.
If you’re anything like me, when you purchase the Ultimate Truth package you expect everything to be the best, right? Well, when the very charming and knowledgeable associate handed out the masks so we could test for fit, she asked if we wanted to upgrade the mask to a better one. And when we got the breathing tube and the fins, same thing - did we want to upgrade?
Every time we turned around we were offered an upgrade that we didn’t get with the “ultimate” package!
Now you KNOW I’m all for adding on and selling up. And there were lots of things they could have added on like beach chairs or suntan lotion or underwater cameras or maps of the best island snorkeling spots...
But when you offer the Ultimate Truth snorkel package, you should include the ultimate snorkel gear, not the
kinda-good, pretty-close-to-ultimate gear.
Lesson #2 from Snorkel Bob’s: Be honest and genuine in your labeling. If it’s called the best, give’em your best!Snorkel Bob’s set our expectations one way, and then delivered something else. Needless to say, we were annoyed and it diminished what could have been a great experience.
Friendly people, good displays, great copy, great pricing, but if they were going to offer levels, they should have just charged a bit more and made the Ultimate Truth the ultimate experience.
To sign up for WhizBang! Training Tips visit www.whizbangtraining.com.
Senate to Try Again to Increase HICA Tax; Make Your Opposition Known Today!
In late 2012, we alerted you to the fact that state lawmakers were trying to dramatically increase the Health Insurance Claims Tax (“HICA Tax”) on Michigan job providers in order to balance the state’s budget. Although we were successful in defeating the lame duck proposal, a new bill was reintroduced earlier today (Tuesday, April 30th) and it appears the Senate Appropriations Committee is on the verge of beginning a new round of action on this ill-conceived proposal.
Senate Bill 335 (Sen. Kahn, R-Saginaw) would vastly expand the HICA Tax from a one-percent tax on paid health insurance claims to a variable rate tax, whereby unelected Treasury officials will adjust the rate every three years to reflect medical inflation for the preceding three-year period. The bill would also remove the January 1, 2014 sunset date, pushing the HICA tax obligation on job providers out indefinitely.
The HICA Tax was passed in 2011 as a replacement for the HMO Use Tax, which was the subject of federal scrutiny. The revenue from the HICA Tax is used to meet federal match requirements to fund Michigan’s Medicaid program. While this tax has been in place for a little over a year,
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it has not met revenue expectations, which has created about a $140 million hole in the state budget. Data has not been analyzed to determine why the HICA Tax is collecting less than projected and it is unclear whether the state has done due diligence in collecting the current tax from all taxpayers.
The Michigan Chamber is opposed to SB 335 because it would provide for an uncapped, unlimited and unpredictable tax rate, providing very little certainty to employers as they look to forecast their future liabilities. In addition, increasing taxes on a benefit that many businesses voluntarily provide to their employees is a disincentive to continuing to provide that coverage.
While we recognize a solution to the funding hole is needed to avoid significant cuts to health care providers’ reimbursement rates and a cost-shift to private payers, we do not believe SB 335 is the right answer. Instead, we are urging lawmakers to embrace alternative solutions, such as filling the shortfall with an assessment on drivers as is contemplated in House Bill 4612 (Rep. Lund, R-Shelby Township). This proposal has the net benefit of stabilizing and expanding the tax base while providing a stable revenue source to fill the Medicaid funding gap.
The Senate Appropriations Committee plans to begin debate on this legislation in the near future. As a Michigan Chamber member, please take the opportunity to voice your opposition to this punitive and unlimited tax increase today!
A copy of this article is available via their website at:http://www.michamber.com/news
Pre-Employment Screening: Criminal Background Checks & Drug TestingLive Webinar presented by David J. Houston & Christina K. McDonaldMay 22, 2013 from 10:00-11:00 am EDTRegister at http://www.michamber.com/webinars
With higher security concerns, corporate scandals, and workplace violence, employers must conduct pre-employment screening during the hiring process to avoid lawsuits and costly hiring mistakes. This screening can include psychometric testing, background checks (criminal, reference, credit), and drug testing to determine the background and identity of hiring a new employee. Each type of background check and test is subject to federal and state laws, so it is important employers understand what these guidelines are and how to avoid potential legal landmines. Attend this webinar to determine how you can use pre-employment screening legally and effectively during the hiring process.
AGENDAOverview of Pre-Hiring Screening Considerations
Criminal Background Checks • Hiring an Employee with a Criminal History
Drug Screenings • Michigan’s Medical Marijuana Act • Alcohol and Other Illegal Substances • Prescription Medication
Fair Credit Reporting Act
Using Social Media in Pre-Hiring Decisions
EXPERT PRESENTERSDavid J. Houston is a member of Dickinson Wright PLLC, and practices in the areas of Labor and Employment, Health Care, Insurance and Commercial Law. David is recognized by Best Lawyers® and Super Lawyers® and was peer-selected as Mid-Michigan Employment Law-Management Lawyer of the Year for 2013, awarded by Best Lawyers in America. David has handled all aspects of workplace violence matters including policy development and implementation, protective orders, and where necessary, discipline and termination. He is experienced in employment and labor relations law and represents employers before federal and state trial and appellate courts, and state and federal agencies. He has an active practice counseling employers to avoid, and in defending, labor relations and NLRA election and complaint matters, employment contract, employment discrimination, and harassment litigation. He also litigates employee trade secret and non-compete claims. David has been a contributing author to several Michigan Chamber Services compliance manuals and has also presented on numerous labor law topics.
Christina K. McDonald is an active attorney with Dickinson Wright PLLC in Grand Rapids, practicing labor and employment relations law and commercial and business litigation. She is a member of the Grand Rapids Bar Association; the State Bar of Michigan labor and employment law and litigation sections; is a member of the board of the Women Lawyers Association of Michigan-Western Region; and serves on the Board of Family Promise of Grand Rapids.
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May 1, 2013Migratory Bird FestivalSee www.keweenawimbd.org for a complete schedule of events.Held in Copper Harbor.
Rainforest Reptiles9:30 am AND 1:00 pmPart of the Rozsa Center’s Class Act Children’s Outreach Program, in Houghton.
May 2, 20131913 Strike ExhibitMay 2 through June 1Held at the Calumet Visitors Center in Calumet.
Something’s Afoot7:30 pm May 2nd through 4thPresented by the Calumet Player’s at the Calumet Theatre in Calumet.
May 3, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
May 4, 2013Trauma Clinic9:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at the Calumet Colosseum in Calumet.
La Fleche Du Nord76 mile point-to-point bike ride starting in Houghton and ending on Brockway Mountain.
May 4, 2013MTU Commencement10:30 amHeld at the Student Development Complex in Houghton.
May 7, 2013Keweenaw Trail Services Meeting6:00 pm to 7:00 pmHeld at Convention and Visitors Bureau in Calumet.
Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance Meeting7:30 am to 8:30 amHeld at the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock.
May 10, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
May 11, 20132013 Portage Health Foundation Spring Ball & AuctionHeld at the Continental Fire Company in Houghton.
May 14, 2013Keweenaw Young Professionals Meeting6:30 pmHeld at Shute’s Bar in Calumet.
May 15, 2013Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting7:45 am to 9:15 amHeld at Finlandia University in Hancock.
May 16, 2013Bike2Work DayObserved area-wide.
Keweenaw Peninsula Events CalendarBusiness Events Community Events
Interested In Getting Invloved?
Participating in community events is a great way to network and create visibility for your company in the community.
If you would like more information about any of these events there are more details on our calendar at www.keweenaw.org/business-calendar.
If you have an upcoming event that you would like to be included on our calendar or in our next newsletter let us know! We are also looking for photos of people doing business in the Keweenaw to use on our website and in our newsletters. If you have any you would like to share send them by email to our Marketing Assistant at [email protected]. Please include who took the photo and the area it was taken in so we can give proper credit!
Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce902 College Avenue, P.O. Box 336Houghton, MI 49931
p. (906) 482.5240f. (906) 482.5241e. [email protected]
www.keweenaw.org
www.facebook.com/Keweenaw.Chamber
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May 30, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
June 4, 2013Keweenaw Trail Services Meeting6:00 pm to 7:00 pmHeld at Convention and Visitors Bureau in Calumet.
June 6, 2013Eggs and Issues7:00 am to 9:00 amHeld at the Shelden Grill in Houghton.
June 7, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
June 12, 2013Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance Meeting7:30 am to 8:30 amHeld at the Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock.
May 24, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
Lake Linden High School GraduationHeld at the Lake Linden-Hubbell High School gymnasium.
May 24, 2013Ride the Keweenaw WeekendMay 24th through 26thBike the trails of the Keweenaw from the Michigan Tech Trails in Houghton to the IMBA “Epic Trail” system in Copper Harbor. More information is available at www.copperharbortrails.org/event/2012-05-25/384.
May 26, 2013Houghton High School Graduation3:00 pmHeld at the high school gymnasium in Houghton.
Hancock High School Graduation1:30 pmHeld at the high school gymnasium in Hancock.
May 27, 2013Memorial Day Celebration10:00 amHeld on the Parade Grounds at Ft. Wilkins Historic State Park in Copper Harbor.
May 29, 2013Business After HoursTentatively scheduled for May 29th. Please visit our website for more information.
May 17, 2013Friday Coffee10:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at First United Methodist Church in Hancock.
May 17, 2013Life is an Open Book7:00 pmHeld at the Calumet Theatre in Calumet.
Bill Cosby7:00 pmHeld at Michigan Technological University’s MacInness Ice Arena in Houghton.
May 22, 2013Ribbon Cutting for Core Wellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine11:00 am to 12:00 pmHeld at CoreWellness Chiropractic and Natural Medicine in Houghton.
Business After Hours 5:30 pm to 7:30 pmHosted by MTEFCU and held at their office in Houghton.
May 23, 2013“Interpreting the 1913 Michigan Copper Strike” with Gary Kaunonen7:00 pmHeld at the Calumet Visitors Center in Calumet.
May 24, 2013Calumet-Larium-Keweenaw Graduation7:30 pm Held at the gymnasium on Mine Street in Calumet.
Looking for a way to get your advertising message out to a fresh new crowd? The Chamber newsletter has a circulation of more than 200 local businesses. We can accept ad-ready copy or build an ad for you... just ask for details. Email advertising is also available and reaches 1800 emails! Newsletter and email advertising gets proven results, so let us help you grow your business today!
The ad deadline for advertising is the 20th of the month prior to the date of the newsletter. For example, May 20th to be in the June newsletter. If you have any questions, please give us a call!
Rate per issueFull page $1001/2 page $ 751/4 page $ 501/8 page $ 25Email campaign $ 25
It is the mission of the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce to:
SUPPORT: The Chamber supports businesses by providing information and referring inquiries to our partners like Keweenaw Economic Development Association, Small Business and Technology Development Center, MTEC SmartZone, Entrepreneur Support Center, Jutila Business Incubator or whichever organization is best to assist that business. In addition we are working toward building a business calendar.
ATTRACT: The Chamber also provides information and referrals to people wanting to visit or relocate here. If someone wants to inquire about tourism, we send them directly to the Keweenaw Convention and Visitors Bureau. And whether someone is relocating a business or family here, we will continue to send them to the appropriate community resource(s) that will meet their need(s).
DEVELOP BUSINESS: The Chamber is going to continue growing networking and visibility opportunities for small businesses. We will continue to provide ribbon cuttings, promotion, Eggs and Issues, golf outings, and a monthly newsletter.
| Visibility Opportunities:
902 College Avenue, P.O. Box 336 Houghton, MI 49931
p: (906) 482-5240 f: (906) 482-5241
Business HoursM, W, F: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
T, Th: 9:00 am to 3:00 pm
www.keweenaw.org www.facebook.com/Keweenaw.Chamber
