December 2013 Chamber Newsletter

ISSUE #17 DECEMBER 2013 |

Photo by Betsy O’Leary

Area businesses thriving in 2013 Snowy weather, uptick in economy cited as reasons

| Inside This Issue: Returning Community Partners

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Chamber news writers reviewed three area businesses whose owners are pleased with their growth and expansion in 2013.

Businesses Thriving in 2013

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Board of Directors

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Surplus Outlet, 200 Shelden Ave., Houghton, 906.482.2550 www.surplusoutlet.net

January Eggs & Issues: MTU Students

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Welcome to New KEDA Director

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Dec. Eggs & Issues: Bioenergy

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MI ranked #39 in Competitiveness

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Dianda Proposes Bill 5204

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Keweenaw Mention in NY Times

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Need to get warm? This longtime downtown Houghton outdoor retailer has you covered from head to foot – literally. Take a few steps into the Surplus Outlet store on Shelden Avenue and your vision fills with brightly colored socks, hats, scarves, gloves, hoodies, and a host of other snuggly gear. Boots and footwear fill a sizeable portion of the main floor along with most of the “Work Area” basement portion of the store.

Longtime owners John and Barb McRae, who in 2014 celebrate their 30th year with Surplus Outlet, welcome the white stuff that makes skiers cheer and drivers grumble. With heavy snowfalls in March and December, 2013 has been a good year for the store. “We’ve had a sales increase going, and that’s always nice,” notes Barb. “Being an outdoor retailer, early snow is great for us. For one thing, it’s beautiful, and as local business people know, it’s really good for our economy.”

Shoppers can expect to find popular, reliable brands plus a large selection of outdoor gear. And the U.P. is represented well with an assortment of clothing and souvenirs that promote our hearty outdoor lifestyle. “We’re always looking for new products, to find something new and different,” says Barb.

Surplus Outlet is open seven days a week, Monday-Saturday 9 am–8 pm and Sundays 10 am–4 pm.

(Wickley Agency, continued on page 3) | Our Superior Partners. Thank You!

MDNR Rec. Grant Workshops

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Year-end Tax Tips

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MI Auto Industry Growth Potential

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Dianda Votes No on Bill 661

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NMU Upcoming Job Fairs

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Support for Taxpayer Protections

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MDOT Seeks Public Comment

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Business Events Calendar Proud Member of

Member 2013

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Portage Health has always focused on providing the highest quality healthcare possible for our community. Don’t just take our word for it, though. In the last year Portage Health has been recognized by a wide variety of national and regional independent reviewers. These recognitions provide a testament to the high standards Portage Health has committed to. We invite you to learn more about our commitment to quality healthcare by visiting our website,

portagehealth.org/HereForYou

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KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

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Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce is pleased to recognize the dedication of our renewed members!

Welcome Back, Community Partners Computer Mechanix Culver’s Family Chiropractic Center Great Lakes Sound and Vibration

McGrath, Inc. Quincy’s Restaurant Sherwin Williams Suomi Restaurant

Chamber Members, We Need Your Brochures!

Chamber Seeking Board Members

Stop in to check out the newly remodeled Chamber office/Visitor Center, and bring your business brochures to fill our racks. Visitors to the area find useful information on our shelves, and we want our Chamber member businesses to be represented. This is a great way to increase your company’s visibility! Ì

We need motivated, interested individuals to put their names in the running for board member seats.

Elections will be held January 9 at 7:30 am at Shelden Grill, just before Eggs & Issues.

Call the Chamber office at 482.5240 or email info@keweenaw.org for more information. Ì

Businesses Thriving in 2013 (continued from front) Wickley Agency, 218 Quincy St., Hancock, 906.482.1140 www.wickleyagency.com The notion of “security” is essential to the peace of mind required when insurance and real estate issues are involved. Not only has Wickley Agency been selling insurance and real estate in the Copper Country for over 75 years, they’ve been at the same location since 1950. Stability such as that can only be earned, for it reflects long-term business savvy, making prudent decisions and square deals over time. A recent office makeover informs visitors immediately that the agency, while honoring its proud past, is firmly ensconced in the 21st century.

From founder A.J. Wickley to his son Pete to current mainstays Steph Olsson and Cathy Lucchesi, nurturing personal relationships has been the key to the agency’s success. But in the competitive fields of real estate and full-service insurance – auto, homeowners, life, health, commercial lines for (continued on page 5)

The Chamber office will be closed

Board Of Directors Johanna Davis, President Owner Spirit of the North Wellness Center johanna@spiritofthenorthwellness.com Brent Burns, Vice President Director of Corporate Partnerships Michigan Technological University bburns@mtu.edu Greg Seppanen, Treasurer Assistant Vice President / Trust Superior National Bank gseppanen@snb-t.com Karyn Olsson, Secretary Chief Marketing Officer Marketing Department Inc. karyno@marketingdepartmentinc.com Lisa Dunnebacke Associate Member ladunneb@mtu.edu Michael Scott Publisher The Daily Mining Gazette mscott@mininggazette.com Matt Thyer Owner Up and Running Technology Solutions matt.thyer@uartechsolutions.com Glen Tolksdorf Owner Tolksdorf Realty and Forestry Tolksdorf@tolksdorfrealty.com Karin Van Dyke Vice President for University Relations Finlandia University karin.vandyke@finlandia.edu

December 23–January 2.

See you next year!

KEWEENAW.ORG

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SPOTLIGHT ON What Makes Michigan Tech Distinctive

Michigan Tech Students Today

Sponsored by

Special Guest Speaker

Les Cook VP for Student Affairs and Advancement Thursday, January 9, 2014 7:30–9 am C l a u n ! n s A lection Shelden Grill, Houghton E d r a o B rget: Don’t fo amber h

Interested in knowing more about the nearly 7,000 students that add energy, intellect and adventure to the Copper Country? This update will provide participants a glimpse into the characteristics and makeup of the Michigan Tech student population. From academic programs to adventurous spirit, you'll learn what makes Michigan Tech distinctive.

Les P. Cook serves as the vice president for student affairs at Michigan Technological University, overseeing the areas of student life, residential life and housing, enrollment, marketing and communications, diversity programs, judicial affairs, and the dean of students. Cook joined Michigan Tech in July 2003, serving as vice provost and dean of students before assuming the role of vice president. Before coming to the University, he was the associate vice president for student life at the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California.

Join us for voting, breakfast and bring your questions!

Please RSVP at 906.482.5240 or email info@keweenaw.org.

Find more information at www.keweenaw.org.

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KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

Businesses Thriving in 2013

(from page 3)

small and large businesses, and bonds – continuing education and product knowledge are necessary tools to achieve client satisfaction. Among insurance professionals, retention rates are a very important yardstick of how well client needs are met. Wickley Agency has retention rates among the highest in the Midwest. And that says plenty.

Chickadees, 514 Shelden Ave., Houghton, 906.523.5363 www.chickadees.biz At Chickadees, the stakes aren’t as high as those in real estate and insurance, but the friendships are just as

KCoC Welcomes Ratcliffe As KEDA Leader The Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce extends a warm and sincere welcome to Jeff Ratcliffe, named in December as the new Executive Director of Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance (KEDA) as reported in The Daily Mining Gazette.

warm and real. Longtime owners Dennis and Micki Silva shepherd over a Marquette store along with the Houghton location, keeping the shops stuffed with a joyful riot of unique quality clothing, costume jewelry, accessories, and merchandise for home and office.

When visiting Chickadees, those who use reading glasses are advised to bring them, because one of the shop’s specialties is the tremendous range of signs and slogans printed or affixed to wood blocks, pillows, drinking glasses, clothing, and myriad knickknacks. Another consistent favorite is the line of hilarious greeting cards by MikWright (mikwright.com), which feature quirky, out-ofcontext captions that augment vintage photos. Think of poodle skirts, beehive hairdos, and double knit slacks, all repurposed for hilarity.

Between the funny cards and signs, Yooper T-shirts, and piles of zany stuffed animals and too-cute baby clothing, it’s pretty darn difficult to walk into Chickadees and not crack a smile. And the warm greetings of friendly staff will also generate a grin. Certainly, the world can use more of those. Ì

Ratcliffe will move to the Keweenaw from Gaylord, where he has been executive director of the Otsego County Economic Alliance since 2001. Other economic development leadership positions in Michigan include stints as chairperson of the Upper Peninsula Economic Development Alliance and president of the Michigan Economic Development Association.

KEDA designs and implements proactive, sustainable programs that are focused on retaining and expanding existing firms, starting up new businesses, attracting entrepreneurs and companies to the Keweenaw and initiating projects that create the conditions for future economic growth. Earlier this year, KEDA announced plans to partner with the Western Upper Peninsula Planning and Development Region and to eventually expand beyond Baraga, Houghton, and Keweenaw counties to promote the entire six-county Western U.P.

2013

River Valley Bank’s Outstanding Business of the Year contest for Upper Michigan is once again under way. We’re looking for nominations for the small business that has had a major impact on your community in 2013.

IN THE UPPER PENINSULA • Calumet • Houghton

• Ironwood

Marquette West • • Marquette North

• Iron Mountain

Visit rivervalleybank.com for details on nominating a business of your choice.

While Ratcliffe will officially take the KEDA reins in late March, he will spend one week per month during January, February and March in the Keweenaw to make contacts and build relationships.

We’re happy to note that the January issue of the Chamber Newsletter will include a conversation with Ratcliffe regarding his plans for KEDA’s future. If you are interested in meeting with Ratcliffe during one of his visits, contact KEDA at 906.482.6817. Ì

Outstanding Business of the Year

Ironwood

Houghton

Calumet

Marquette

Iron Mountain

www.rivervalleybank.com

KEWEENAW.ORG

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KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

December Eggs & Issues: Spotlight on Bioenergy December 12, 2013 — All the elements for a dynamic, informative discussion were at play during the December Eggs & Issues gathering at Shelden Grill.

A knowledgeable presenter, Melissa Davis is Managing Director of New Power Tour, Inc., a new Chamber member. The topic – Spotlight on Bioenergy: What Does It All Mean? – was of great personal and professional interest to the attendees, including area professionals in energy, trade, and business, and resident experts from Finlandia and Michigan Technological Universities.

Melissa’s presentation included a comparison of U.S. forest and biomass culture with those of Finland – linked inextricably with the Upper Peninsula.

Because Chamber gatherings are professional yet informal, unpretentious and relaxed, the room crackled with vibrant discussion, commentary, and anecdotal experiences, contrasting sharply with the gusting, wintry scene outside, overlooking the Portage Canal.

The parallels and similarities between the Upper Peninsula and Finland are more than cultural and epicurean. Both regions are blanketed heavily with forests, which make them prime areas for biomass development. In fact, as Davis noted, “the biomass forest industry is Finland’s largest economic engine.” Cultural and regulatory differences are chief reasons why the U.S. and the U.P. currently do not enjoy this level of benefit from biomass.

In the U.S., Federal lands prohibit harvesting of downed trees and dead wood, while these practices are essential to the Finnish model. Finland’s focus on sustainable harvesting methods has actually increased its volume of marketable forest resources in the last century. Contrast that with the voracious clear-cutting that denuded Michigan’s original white pine forests in the 19th and early 20th century, while today only about 4% of Michigan state lands are timber-harvested.

“It’s funny,” said one attendee, “Europeans come to our forests and they note how ‘messy’ they are, how many downed trees are lying about. And of course, that’s something we LOVE about our forests, that natural state, how we’ll notice a newly fallen tree when hiking or walking.

European forests, by comparison, are almost parklike, because they harvest all the fallen materials.”

While there are many forms of bioenergy – sewage treatment plants, landfills, plant refuse, and others along with wood waste – it is the latter that is Finland’s cash cow and which has potential as a growth industry in the Keweenaw and other largely forested rural areas, particularly those with a pre-existing logging infrastructure.

Davis stated the two main reasons renewable energy technologies are economically superior: 1) they are labor intensive, thus creating more jobs-per-dollar-invested than conventional energy technologies, and 2) they use indigenous resources (in this case, local timber and equipment), so most of the energy dollars remain at home.

Finland’s acumen with woody biomass was amplified by Kevin Manninen, Dean of Finlandia’s Business School, who lived in Finland for 15 years and was instrumental to Davis’s tour of Finnish biomass facilities. Manninen offered numerous insights and details regarding Finnish perspectives, culture, and ethos.

Conversation and information about this culturally, economically and business-significant developing industry flowed with ease, providing a great example of why Chamber gatherings are excellent venues to make new business contacts and to learn important information regarding relevant local topics. If you missed this exciting exchange, contact the Chamber to receive presentation materials. And mark your calendar for the next Eggs & Issues gathering on Thursday, January 9, featuring Les Cook’s presentation, Michigan Tech Students Today! Ì

Shop Local, Shop Fresh, Shop Your Hometown Grocery Stores!

KEWEENAW.ORG

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Michigan moves up from 47th to 39th place, in second annual Michigan Chamber Foundation study on Economic Competitiveness LANSING – Michigan’s overall economic competitiveness is improving, according to the results of a second annual public policy study conducted by Northwood University on behalf of the Michigan Chamber Foundation.

“Michigan is on an aggressive comeback path,” said Dr. Timothy G. Nash, of Northwood University, who led the study. “Clearly, when you look at Michigan’s competitive position compared to other states, there is still room for improvement, but this is great news for Michigan.”

The 2013 Michigan Economic Competitiveness Study, conducted by economists from Northwood University, Rutgers University and Central Michigan University for the Michigan Chamber Foundation, analyzed over 200 variables to create the Northwood University Competitiveness Index. The variables were factored into five categories that measure economic performance: General Macroeconomic Environment, State Debt and Taxation, Workforce Composition and Cost, Labor and Capital Formation and Regulatory Environment.

cities, both Detroit and Grand Rapids saw the highest GDP growth rates over the same period.

“Can Michigan return to the position of greatness it once occupied in the U.S. business structure?” asked Nash.

“The answer is unequivocally yes, but only if we continue to confront the economic reality facing this great state.

“Michigan must set its sights high and benchmark to the best economic and political practices of this country’s top performing states,” added Nash.

“We are optimistic that Michigan will continue its path to become the comeback story of the decade as it relates to economic competitiveness,” Thomas concluded.

An executive brief of 2013 Michigan Economic Competitiveness Study is available at www.michamber. com/files/michamber.com/2013 Executive Brief REVISED 120213.pdf. Ì

“Michigan’s relatively strong performance in terms of debt and taxation, plus our regulatory environment, are two positive findings of this study,” said Bob Thomas, Executive Director of the Michigan Chamber Foundation.

“Going forward, Michigan’s policy makers should consider building on these strengths.”

“The results are promising, but there is still work to do to improve state and local economic competitiveness,” noted Rich Studley, President & CEO of the Michigan Chamber of Commerce. “Michigan and our cities are in a fierce competitive battle with other states and foreign countries for jobs and workforce development and our labor markets still need to catch up.”

The study noted challenges with Michigan’s energy costs, auto insurance rates, population migration and entrepreneurial activity.

The Michigan Chamber Foundation’s 2013 Michigan Economic Competitiveness Study also contains two new features looking at the competitiveness of the Great Lakes Region, and a snapshot of key Great Lakes Region Cities.

The Great Lakes Region, including Wisconsin, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Michigan, outpaced national gross state product growth rates over the last two years, with Michigan leading the region. Out of seven of the largest regional

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KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

Dianda bill gives purchasing privileges to local government Bill 5204 gives locals first shot at snow removal equipment LANSING – On December 12, State Representative Scott Dianda (D-Calumet) introduced House Bill 5204, legislation to require that Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) offer snow removal equipment for auction to local governments first, before offering it to the general public. The bill was introduced with 51 bipartisan co-sponsoring signatures, including the entire House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee.

“This is an important piece of legislation for Michigan’s local governments, especially those facing heavy snowfall,” said Dianda. “These days, our local road crews are being asked to do more with less. It would be beneficial to the counties in my district, as well as many other Michigan counties, to have rights of first purchase on equipment that MDOT is ready to sell.”

Some local governments are currently using snow plows from the 1970s, while MDOT is auctioning off its more current equipment to the public through a site called MiBid, an internet bidding site much like eBay. This site makes it feasible and affordable to offer selected property to local governments before opening the bidding to the general public.

Interested In Getting Involved?

This is an incredibly exciting time as we bring our efforts into focus to support, attract and develop 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.

“If passed, I’m confident this bill would make it easier for local governments to gain access to newer snow removal equipment.” Dianda said. Ì

Keweenaw Lauded in NY Times Travel The Upper Peninsula received a mention enjoyed around the world when noted author Jim Harrison shared some thoughts on the U.P. in the Travel section of The New York Times on Sunday, December 1 (published online November 29).

Harrison, author of over 35 books including Wolf and Legends of the Fall, will in January publish a series of novellas titled Brown Dog, about the U.P. adventures of “an itinerant worker and trout fisherman of mixed ChippewaFinnish descent.” Here’s what Harrison shared about the Copper Country: “A place worth visiting is the hilly Keweenaw Peninsula with its old mining towns dating from the years of the Copper Boom, in the 19th and early 20th centuries. The Keweenaw is the northernmost part of the Upper Peninsula jutting north into Lake Superior. It is rugged and eerily beautiful and will remind you of English mining country in the towns of Hancock, Calumet and Laurium. My wife’s relatives had a 500-pound copper nugget as part of their fireplace near Eagle Harbor. From Copper Harbor you can take a boat out to the Isle Royale National Park. Many people here migrated from Cornwall, England. Some people lived lavishly during the Copper Boom. The Italian tenor Enrico Caruso visited. My wife’s grandparents had a house with 16 bedrooms, all with fireplaces. My father-in-law drove off to Dartmouth College in a Stutz with a buffalo robe.”

Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce 902 College Avenue, P.O. Box 336 Houghton, MI 49931 p. 906.482.5240 f. 906.482.5241 e. info@keweenaw.org www.keweenaw.org www.facebook.com/Keweenaw.

Chamber

To read the entire article, including a fantastic slide show by Narayan Mahon (featuring the Keweenaw in images #6 –10), visit www.nytimes. com/2013/12/01/travel/my-upper-peninsula.html?_r=0. Ì

KEWEENAW.ORG

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Michigan Department of Natural Resources Recreation Grant Workshops

Review business tax planning at year-end

Local units of government and other eligible parties are invited to attend the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (DNR) Recreation Grant workshops in January and February 2014. The workshops address the required criteria for applicants and how to apply for:

Tax Tip from Rukkila, Negro & Associates, CPAs, PC

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Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF) grants

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Michigan Natural Resources Trust Fund (MNRTF) grants

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Recreation Passport grants

Because 2014 is the pilot year for recreation grants to go “paperless,” the workshops will also address “How To” submit applications, addendum, documentation, and more. Making all forms and submittals available online not only streamlines the process but ensures that applicants receive updates.

Attendees are encouraged to bring laptops or tablets for the new electronic application submittal training.

See a complete list of workshops here: content. govdelivery.com/ accounts/MIDNR/ bulletins/96e0b1 Tuesday, January 14 9 am–12:30 pm Ojibwa Casino 797 Michigan Avenue Baraga Wednesday, January 15 9:30 am–1:30 pm Peter White Library 217 North Front Street Marquette Thursday, January 16 9 am–12:30 pm Comfort Inn 13954 State Highway M-28 Newberry For more information or special assistance, contact Linda Harlow at 517.284.7268. Ì

Workshops will be held statewide starting in Baraga on January 14, 2014. At right are three workshops in the U.P.

While you’re wrapping up 2013, give yourself the gift of reduced stress in the new year by getting a head start on January’s information reporting responsibilities. Here are three tasks to tackle.

Review your general ledger. Even if you’ve already identified “1099 vendors” in your payables system, review current year expenses to make sure no new or infrequent payments have been overlooked.

For example, it’s easy to forget that fees totaling $600 or more paid to an attorney during the year must be reported on Form 1099-MISC, even if the attorney’s practice operates as a corporation.

Verify vendor information. Check your files for up-to-date Forms W-9, the form used to request a vendor’s federal taxpayer identification number (TIN). In general, you should have Form W-9 on file for each vendor who provides services, even if the transaction is a one-time event.

Filing “mismatched” Forms 1099 — where the name and/or TIN do not match IRS records — will result in a notice and possible penalties. You can sign up for the TIN Matching Program, an online IRS service, to verify identification numbers prior to filing 1099s.

Order forms. If you plan to file paper forms this year, the copy you mail to the IRS must be on forms preprinted with scan-friendly ink. You’ll also need Form 1096, the annual summary, for each type of information return filed.

For more information, contact Rukkila, Negro and Associates, 906.482.6601 or visit www.rukkilanegro.com. Ì

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KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

Michigan Has Potential To Grow Rep. Dianda Votes Against 100K Auto Tech Jobs Plan to Weaken Campaign Innovative manufacturing concerns in the Copper Country, Transparency take note: In-demand mobility technologies are poised to take off in Michigan.

A recent article published at MITechNews.com stated that, according to state business roundtable Business Leaders for Michigan (BLM), Michigan could grow up to 100,000 new automotive-related jobs by becoming a center of excellence in advanced powertrain, lightweight and smart and connected transportation technologies.

“The automotive industry is fast becoming a mobility industry,” said Bill Ford, Executive Chairman of Ford Motor Company and chair of BLM’s mobility initiative. “While Michigan already is the automotive leader, we need to take actions now to ensure that we are the leader of the emerging mobility industry.”

Mobility refers to products associated with transporting people and goods, as well as sophisticated connectivity technology in vehicles to assist drivers with navigation, parking, road conditions and safety. Mobility also refers to multi-modal and intermodal solutions that integrate personal vehicles with public transit and reduce congestion and emissions.

Michigan’s advantage in the mobility arena is rooted in the state’s leadership on R&D, production and supply companies that operate here. The automotive industry has the highest jobs multipliers of any sector of the Michigan economy.

“Currently, Michigan is home to 70 percent of all U.S. automotive R&D expenditures, and 13 percent of global R&D spending,” said Doug Rothwell, BLM President & CEO. “Coupled with the state’s top ranking as home to engineers, and high concentration of smart and connected test beds and pilot deployments, Michigan is wellpositioned to soar as a leader of automotive innovation.”

Originally published in MITechNews.com Ì

Senate Bill 661 allows special interests to spend more on politics LANSING – State Representative Scott Dianda (D-Calumet) voted against Senate Bill 661, which would change Michigan elections by allowing special interests to spend more money on politicians and campaigns while weakening financial disclosure.

“I have never heard anyone say they think there should be more money in politics,” Dianda said. “When dealing with campaign finance, what we should really be working on is transparency.”

SB 661 reduces campaign and governmental financial transparency for politicians and special interests at the expense of voting citizens. The bill would: •

Double the maximum donation an individual, special interest or lobbyist can make to a candidate or political party and adjust the contribution limits for inflation every four years.

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Alter the definition of “contribution” in order to raise annual contribution caps on items such as food and beverages.

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Limit Michigan’s secretary of state from implementing rules that would limit the spending by political action committees (PAC), super PACs and other special interests.

“This bill is shameful. It is not legislation aimed at helping the Michiganders who legislators are supposed to represent,” Dianda said. “That’s why I voted against it, and that’s why I will continue to oppose this and any similar type of legislation. We need real reform in campaign finance law – not laws pumping more money into campaigns.” Ì

KEWEENAW CA$H: The Perfect Gift for employees, customers, family and friends, even after the holidays!

The popular KEWEENAW CA$H program is a great way to give a gift that keeps your cash local and supports area businesses. Purchase KEWEENAW CA$H certificates at the Chamber office in Houghton and use them at any participating member business. Certificates are available in any denomination from $1 to $100. Easy and convenient

gifts for everyone on your list, KEWEENAW CA$H certificates are presented in a festive envelope with a list of participating businesses. Stop by the Chamber today or call 906.482.5240 to order KEWEENAW CA$H. We accept cash, checks, Visa and Mastercard. Ì KEWEENAW.ORG

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Northern Michigan University upcoming job fairs Area businesses and organizations are invited to attend two NMU job fairs slated for February 12 and March 19, 2014.

Studies by the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE) indicate that, even in today’s challenging economic times, face-to-face contact at job fairs and campus interview visits are the best ways to fill vacancies. Both upcoming events will provide the perfect venue to meet students from Northern Michigan University.

The Summer Job Fair is a great opportunity for employers who need to recruit summer labor or fill parttime or internship positions. This event is on Wednesday, February 12 from 1–3:30 pm in the Great Lakes Rooms of the Don H. Bottum University Center on NMU’s campus.

Lunch will be provided for all attending recruiters, starting at 11:45 am. There is no registration fee for this event.

The Upper Great Lakes Collegiate Job Fair is a recruiting event typically for employers looking to fill fulltime positions. The job fair will be held on Wednesday, March 19 from 1–4 pm, also in the Great Lakes Rooms.

Please note that there is a $75 registration fee, which includes all services related to the job fair (except some special audio visual equipment, if requested) and also includes a luncheon starting at 11:45 am.

For more information and to register for either of these events, please visit www.nmu.edu/jobfairs.

If you have any questions or need additional information, please contact NMU staff at 906.227.2800 or careers@ nmu.edu. Ì

F DID YOU KNOW? E

…that when newspaper editor Horace Greeley shared his now-classic line, “Go West, young man!”, he was extolling visits to and the settling of the Upper Peninsula, not Gold Rush California or the Oklahoma Territory.

Source: Houghton County, 1870–1920 (Images of America Series) by Richard E. Taylor, President, Houghton County Historical Society.

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Mich. Chamber of Commerce applauds legislature for bipartisan, unanimous passage of taxpayer protections bill On December 13, the Michigan Chamber of Commerce publicly commended the Michigan House and Senate for their leadership in standing up for individuals and taxpayers who have been unfairly assessed taxes by the State of Michigan. Senate Bill 64 (Brandenburg, R-11) passed with unanimous, bi-partisan support and is now headed to Governor Snyder.

The bill addresses key reforms to Michigan’s officer tax liability laws. Michigan currently has one of the most expansive laws and the most aggressive administration of the statute in the country. Many states, and the Internal Revenue Service, hold officers of a company personally liable for unpaid “trust taxes” (such as sales, use, payroll) as it should be. Michigan, however, extends this to individuals who were not officers, or not even at the company during the time of default.

Senate Bill 64 would make Michigan like other states by limiting the law to trust taxes only in the future, but it also provides meaningful reforms, so those who have been unfairly assessed have a fair opportunity to absolve themselves.

“There is a lot at stake for individuals and taxpayers who may be unfairly assessed; assets taken, wages and bank accounts garnished, credit ruined and liens on bank accounts and homes,” said Tricia Kinley, Senior Director of Tax & Regulatory Reform for the Michigan Chamber. “This legislation speaks directly to how taxes are administered in the state of Michigan.”

“We commend the House and Senate for recognizing how unfairly many Michigan residents have been treated under current law,” said Jim Holcomb, Senior VP of Business Advocacy & General Counsel for the Michigan Chamber. “Republicans and Democrats alike acted on the desperate need for reform in this area. In particular, State Senator Jack Brandenburg and State Representative Jeff Farrington demonstrated dogged leadership in fighting to protect individual and taxpayer rights.”

“This legislation sends a clear message that we should all expect tax administration in Michigan to be thorough and fair,” concluded Kinley. “We are hopeful that Governor Snyder will agree with every legislator who supported this bill and sign this into law quickly.” Ì

KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

MDOT seeks public comment on draft 2014-2018 transportation program The Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) is seeking public comment on its draft 2014–2018 Five-Year Transportation Program. The draft document includes information about MDOT’s funding picture and a list of specific transportation projects planned for the next five years in each of MDOT’s seven regions. You can view the location, description and proposed construction year of upcoming MDOT projects on an interactive map online at www.michigan.gov/mdot5yearplan.

COMPLEX CHOICES. CLEAR OUTCOMES.

ALL WAYS THINKING

The Five-Year Transportation Program creates a continuous, interactive dialogue with the users of the state transportation system and anchors MDOT’s project development and delivery systems. An integrated, multimodal program that emphasizes system preservation and safety, it carries out the goals and policies outlined by the State Transportation Commission (STC). In addition to providing a list of MDOT-managed road and bridge projects, the document addresses investment strategies, funding assumptions, and economic benefits and impacts for all modes of transportation in Michigan, including highways, public transit, rail, air, marine and nonmotorized transportation.

MDOT presented the draft 2014–2018 Five-Year Transportation Program to the STC on December 5, 2013. It will remain a draft program until it receives final approval by the STC in January 2014. The full document is available on the MDOT Web site at www.michigan.gov/ mdot5yearplan.

Comments will be accepted until Friday, January 10, and should be directed to Bob Parsons, Public Involvement and Hearings Officer, Bureau of Highways, Michigan Department of Transportation, PO Box 30050, Lansing, MI 48909; fax: 517.373.9255; email: MDOT-FiveYear-Program@michigan.gov.

Alternative formats, such as print, large type and language translation, are available upon request by contacting MDOT’s Public Involvement and Hearings Officer. Ì

RESEARCH Are you trying to make the right marketing decisions? Maybe it’s time to call Upper Peninsula Marketing Department.

Strategic insights lead to happy clients, more customers and higher profit margins. Our research team has many years’ experience designing programs that result in clear direction and bottom-line results.

Learn more about our customized approach by contacting Account Managers Jeff Bowen or Alex Kofsky (906) 483-2000.

IRS mileage/moving rates to change Jan. 1 Beginning January 1, the IRS has decreased the standard mileage rate from 56.5 to 56 cents per mile.

The new mileage rate for moving expenses will be 23.5 cents per mile.

C O N TA C T U S Downtown Houghton 483-2000

600 Shelden Avenue Third Floor

www.marketingdepartmentinc.com

KEWEENAW.ORG

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Keweenaw Peninsula Events Calendar 2014 Your source for area Business Events and Community Events

Friday, December 27, 2013

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Friday, January 3

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Friday, January 3

First Friday / Art of Spinning Fibers 6–8:30 pm Copper Country Associated Artists Gallery in Calumet.

Saturday, January 4

Thursday, January 9

Tuesday, January 7

Friday, January 10

Chili Chase for Charity Ski Races Hosted by Houghton High School National Honor Society 9 am start Michigan Tech Trails, Houghton..

Keweenaw Trail Services Meeting 6–7 pm Convention and Visitors Bureau in Calumet.

Wednesday, January 8

Eggs & issues: Michigan Tech Students Today AND Chamber Board Elections 7:30–9 am Shelden Grill at Magnuson Franklin Square Inn, Houghton.

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Saturday, January 11

Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance Meeting 7:30–8:30 am Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock.

Moon/Fire Ski In Tomasi Trailhead 6:30 pm Night skiing at Maasto Hiihto Trails, Hancock.

Goodwill Community Cleaning & Grounds Crews Service Done The Way You Want It Done!

Fully Insured Very Reasonable Rates Dependable Daily / Weekly / Occasional Work

Please Call For More Information 906.482.6142 Goodwill Industries

Serving Upper Michigan & Northern Wisconsin

23390 Airpark Boulevard Calumet, MI 49913

14

KEWEENAW CHAMBER OF COMMERCE NEWSLETTER

Wednesday, January 15

Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Board Meeting 7:45 am–9:15 am Alternate locations.

Friday, January 17

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Friday, January 17

Club Finn-digo 6–10 pm Dinner and a movie at the Calumet Theatre.

Thursday, January 23– Saturday, January 25

Heikinpaiva Mid Winter Festival Events in Hancock www.pasty.com/heikki.

Friday, January 24

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Friday, January 31– Saturday, February 1

John Dee Snowfest Backcountry rides, raffle/silent auction, banquet with dancing and live entertainment. www.johndee.com .

Friday, January 31

Friday Coffee 10 am–12 pm Weekly gathering at United Methodist Church in Hancock.

Saturday, February 1, 2014 Lake Gogebic Radar Run 8 am–4 pm Gogebic Lodge, N9600 Hwy M-46, Morenisco, MI

Tuesday, February 4, 2014

Keweenaw Trail Services Meeting 6–7 pm Convention and Visitors Bureau in Calumet.

Thursday, February 6, 2014

Eggs & issues 7:30–9 am Shelden Grill at Magnuson Franklin Square Inn, Houghton

SAVE THE DATE! Thursday, February 13

Keweenaw Spark Plug Awards Cocktails 5–6 pm Dinner and Awards 6–7:30 pm $30 RSVP by Feb. 7; $40/door.

Shelden Grill at Magnuson Franklin Square Inn, Houghton

Wednesday, February 12, 2014 Keweenaw Economic Development Alliance Meeting 7:30–8:30 am Finnish American Heritage Center in Hancock.

The Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce Newsletter is a monthly free publication distributed to KCoC members. All rights reserved.

Design, layout, production, photography, proofreading . . . . . . . . . . Betsy O’Leary

Interested In Getting Involved?

Participating in community events is a great way to network and create visibility for your company in the community.

For more information about upcoming events, check out our calendar: www.keweenaw.org/businesscalendar Let us know if you have an upcoming event you want included on our calendar or in our next newsletter!

We are looking for photos of people doing business in the Keweenaw, to use on our website and in our newsletters. If you have photos you’d like to share, send them to info@keweenaw.org. Please include who took the photo and the area it was taken in so we can give proper credit. Thanks!

Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce 902 College Avenue, PO Box 336 Houghton, MI 49931 p. 906.482.5240 f. 906.482.5241 e. info@keweenaw.org

Writing, editing, proofreading, story generation . . . . . . . . . . Steven R. Lasco

www.keweenaw.org

News gathering, administration, distribution . . . . . . . . . . . . Trina Barrette

www.facebook.com/ Keweenaw.Chamber

KEWEENAW.ORG

15

902 College Avenue, P.O. Box 336 Houghton, MI 49931

p: 906.482.5240 f: 906.482.5241 e: info@keweenaw.org Business Hours M, W, F: 9 am to 5:30 pm T, Th: 9 am to 3 pm www.keweenaw.org www.facebook.com/Keweenaw.Chamber

| Visibility Opportunities:

The mission of the Keweenaw Chamber of Commerce: 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.

ATTRACT: The Chamber also provides information and referrals to people who want to visit or relocate here. If someone inquires about tourism, we send them directly to the Keweenaw Convention and Visitors Bureau. Whether someone is relocating a business or family here, we will continue to send them to the appropriate community resources that will meet their needs.

DEVELOP BUSINESS: The Chamber will continue to grow networking and visibility opportunities for small businesses. We will continue to provide ribbon cuttings, promotions, Eggs and Issues, golf outings, and a monthly newsletter.

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 1,800 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 questions, please give us a call!

Rate per issue Full page 1/2 page 1/4 page 1/8 page Email campaign

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