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Chairman of chamber board sends open letter to local small business owners

By Howard B. Owens

Letter from Jerry A. Kozlowski, 2012 chairman, Genesee County Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors:

As you so clearly realize, these have been very turbulent times for small business owners across our great nation. Our small business community has been forced to endure a continual stream of new regulations and taxes that hinder prosperity and growth. Combine these obstacles with unending interference to the basic principle that has made American business exceptional, the concept of free enterprise, and we find ourselves in a very difficult business environment.

You the small business owner of Genesee County continue to be the ongoing hope for a brighter future. You the small business owner of Genesee County employ our husbands and wives, sons and daughters, and families and friends. You the small business owner of Genesee County are the true entrepreneurial spirit that will light our way towards future prosperity.

Being a small business owner in these trying times is a downright difficult challenge. You already knew that. But did you know you’re not in this fight alone?

That is why the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce exists. We’re here to help you, the small business owner, make your way through the ever-complicated maze of roadblocks that stand between you and future success. Your county chamber serves as a centralized location to represent your cause, as well as a combined voice that is far louder and more powerful than your's alone.

Our mission simply states:

The Genesee County Chamber of Commerce leads in the pursuit of creating an environment for business success, which will enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Genesee County.

But we honestly can’t accomplish this extremely important responsibility alone. We need your help! To our current chamber members, I thank you.  We need your continued support to fight the good fight. We also need you to help us enlist the small businesses who aren’t current members to join our ranks. We need you to be loyal ambassadors of your chamber of commerce, so we may truly help each other prosper…together.

To the businesses that are not current members of the Genesee County Chamber of Commerce, won’t you please consider joining us? As you know, there is power and great strength in armies with large numbers.  And as you also know, armies of voters are who Albany and Washington listen to.

Let me end by taking this opportunity to publically thank each and every business member, staff member and volunteer that make up our Genesee County Chamber of Commerce. Best wishes for a successful and prosperous 2012!

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