SBA Licenses Its First Public-Private Impact Investment Initiative Fund in Michigan

Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced that InvestMichigan! Mezzanine Fund will be the first licensed Impact Investment Fund in the SBA’s new Impact Investment Initiative. The fund will focus exclusively on providing capital to businesses that are headquartered in Michigan, have a significant presence in Michigan, or are in the process of expanding their operations in Michigan so they can grow and create jobs.

SBA will partner with Michigan Growth Capital Partners, L.P., an investment partnership whose anchor investor is the State of Michigan Retirement Systems, and The Dow Chemical Company to provide up to $130 million of investment capital over the next five years to high-growth businesses throughout Michigan.

Credit Suisse’s Customized Fund Investment Group structured the InvestMichigan! Mezzanine Fund and will manage the fund in partnership with Beringea, a Michigan-based investment manager. Of the total funding, Dow will provide $15 million; Michigan Growth Capital Partners will provide $35 million; and SBA will provide $80 million, which must be repaid.

“InvestMichigan! is an important new ally in SBA’s commitment to foster small-business growth and job creation in underserved communities,” said SBA Administrator Karen Mills. “They’re an experienced team that is well-positioned to drive more investment in small businesses in hard-hit Michigan.

“We will continue to grow this and other public-private partnerships by licensing more funds -- giving taxpayers a strong bang for their buck, and putting more capital in the hands of small-business owners to scale up and create good jobs.”

The Impact Investment Initiative is part of Startup America, a White House initiative to bring together public and private organizations to accelerate the growth of America’s entrepreneurs. It will use the infrastructure of the SBA’s Small Business Investment Company Program [SBIC], an established and successful program that operates at no cost to taxpayers.

The SBIC program began in 1958 with the mission to improve and stimulate the national economy and small businesses by supplementing the flow of private-equity capital and long-term loan funds for the sound financing, growth and expansion of small businesses. In FY 2010, the SBIC program provided $1.59 billion of financing to nearly 900 U.S. small businesses.

The Impact Investment Initiative will drive up to $1.5 billion into the hands of small businesses over the next five years. It will combine public and private funding for high-growth companies that will generate not only a financial, but also a “social” return, by focusing on businesses located in underserved communities or communities facing barriers to capital.

Through the Impact Investment Initiative, SBA will commit $1 billion to investment funds focused on investing in underserved markets, or in sectors that have been defined as national priorities.

Impact investments can be:
* Place-based -- Targeting small businesses located in, or employing residents of, low- or moderate-income areas or economically distressed areas; or
* Sector-based -- Targeting industry sectors that the Obama Administration has identified as national priorities. Currently only clean-energy and education have been identified as priority sectors.

To serve these markets, SBA will collaborate with private, institutional investors to identify impact investments and provide expedited licensing and capital to fund managers who qualify to organize and operate an Impact Investment SBIC.

High-growth firms are a small part of the small-business community, but they create a large number of net new jobs each year. The Impact Investment Initiative will help high-growth companies receive the funding they need to continue to expand and create jobs in America’s underserved communities and priority sectors.

For more information on SBA's Impact Investment Initiative, visit http://1.usa.gov/ImpactSBA.

GoodBiz113's Take

InvestMichigan! marks a significant development in the potential power of public-private synergies to boost out nation's economy -- state by state, community by community.

Kudos to SBA and its partners for making it happen. We'll be watching...

SOURCES: U.S. Small Business Administration, The White House
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Artist George Rodrigue Creates LSU-Clad Blue Dog Print to Raise Funds for New Arts4Education, to Benefit Arts and Education in Louisiana

This just in: GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has created a special print -- "A Number One Tiger Fan" [pictured] -- to raise funds for his new Arts4Education campaign, to promote the arts and education in Louisiana.

Measuring 31" x 22", the open-edition silkscreen print is signed by Rodrigue, and retails for $500 plus tax and S/H. Proceeds from sales of the "A Number One Tiger Fan" print will benefit the LSU Museum of Art, George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts, LSU Tiger Athletic Foundation and LSU.

For a behind-the-scenes account of this fundraising campaign, read the latest post on "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/TigerFan1.

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio
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Suggested Reading & Viewing: "The Art of George Rodrigue" ^AF

Artist George Rodrigue Creates Latest Painting in Front of Audience at Alexandria Museum of Art

As temperatures climb toward 100 degrees [yes, even here on the "Minnesota tundra"], we've just learned that GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has created a most timely painting, "100 Degrees Hot This Summer" [pictured].

Measuring 48x36, the acrylic on canvas work was created last weekend in front of an audience at Louisiana's historic Alexandria Museum of Art, where the featured George Rodrigue: Saga of the Acadians exhibition runs through July 1.

For a compelling account of this uncharacteristic painting demonstration, read the latest post on "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/100DegreesHot.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments about the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio
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Suggested Reading: "The Art of George Rodrigue" ^AF

Artist George Rodrigue's Foundation Offices Move to New Orleans Art District

We just learned that GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has relocated the offices for his namesake foundation from Metairie, La., to New Orleans.

The above photo shows Rodrigue in front of the new George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts [GRFA] space, located at 747 Magazine Street -- right in the heart of the New Orleans Arts District [NOAD].

Now, with more than 3,000 sq. ft., GRFA will be able to host student field trips, summer camps, teacher workforce development workshops, fundraisers, plus many other events. The space features some of Rodrigue's most famous original paintings -- including several pieces from his world-famous Blue Dog collection. A ribbon-cutting/grand opening ceremony will happen in July.

About GRFA

The George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts advocates the importance of including the visual arts in youth development. GRFA encourages the use of art within all curricula, and generously supports a variety of art education programs.

For more information about the nonprofit GRFA, visit: http://bit.ly/RodrigueGRFA.

SOURCES: George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts, Rodrigue Studio
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Suggested Reading: "The Art of George Rodrigue" ^AF

Artist George Rodrigue Creates Wine Label for Prêt à Boire Rosé Napa Valley 2010

This just in: GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has created "A Bouquet of Rosé" for the wine label of Amuse Bouche's soon-to-be-shipped Prêt à Boire Rosé Napa Valley 2010. Skol!

For details, read the latest post on "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/PinkDog.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments about the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio
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Suggested Reading: "The Art of George Rodrigue" ^AF

George Rodrigue Has Rich History with New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

With just four days left of the 2011 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Wendy Rodrigue has provided an historic account of her husband's involvement with the event.

Over the years, GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has painted works for the annual event's promotional poster, and captured telling images of some of the most renowned artists in the world of jazz. Above is his rendition of Louis Armstrong -- along with the iconic Blue Dog -- featured on the festival's 1995 poster.

Read the latest post on "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy's blog: http://bit.ly/NOJazzFest.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments regarding the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio
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The Art of George Rodrigue ^AF

George Rodrigue's Latest Painting Celebrates Modern Culture, Statewide Tour and Blockbuster Exhibition at Louisiana State University Museum of Art

This just in: GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has released his latest work, Blue Dogs and Cajuns on the River 2011 [pictured above].

Measuring 48x72 inches, the painting is part of a blockbuster show at the Louisiana State University Museum of Art, located in the Shaw Center for the Arts in Baton Rouge. Silkscreen prints, measuring 26x38 inches, are available in a signed and numbered edition of 450 priced at $1,500 each. For ordering info, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueStudio.

"Unlike the black bayous and dark trees of my early Cajun paintings, I use color here to reflect a modern Louisiana," notes Rodrigue. "In the art world, the use of color -- especially flat, bright color -- is modern, in the Pop Art vein. I contrast those colors with the dog -- the only thing that is blended and painterly -- making both the dog and overall composition more important...

"The river in this painting represents our cultural history. The waterways of Louisiana were the early highways of its inhabitants. We had no roads; we just had the water. They were the natural fairways for commerce, development, and everything necessary for settlers to expand."

For an insightful, behind-the-scenes account of the painting and exhibition, read the latest post on "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/BlueDogsCajuns.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments regarding the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Musings of An Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio

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The Art of George Rodrigue ^AF

Artist George Rodrigue to Receive Distinguished Eagle Scout Award on May 12

On May 12, 2011, the Boy Scouts of America will honor GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] with their highest honor: the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award.

Since established by the National Eagle Scout Association in 1969, just six Eagle Scouts from the New Orleans area have received this honor -- the last one 22 years ago, in 1989.

"It gave me a chance to meet professionals in various fields, because they had to sign off on my badges," said Rodrigue as he stood before the Blue Dog sculpture on New Orleans' Veterans Boulevard at the press conference this week, about the impact scouting made on his life from the beginning -- particularly the pursuit of merit badges.

"I spent hours with firefighters, police officers, and even the local funeral home director," Rodrigue recalled. "One expert was a published historian who asked me, 'Do you know where the name New Iberia comes from?' I had never thought about the Spanish heritage of my hometown. I retained more about local history in that one afternoon than in 12 years of study at Catholic High."

For an insightful, behind-the-scenes account of this momentous occasion, read "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/EagleScout6.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments regarding the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Boy Scouts of America, Musings of An Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio, Wikipedia

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The Art of George Rodrigue ^AF

Happy 100th Birthday, Tennessee Williams!

Today marks the 100th birthday of Tony Award- and Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Tennessee Williams. Born on March 26, 1911, Williams' prolific career spanned more than 50 years before his death at age 71 on Feb. 25, 1983.

To celebrate Williams' life and work, we've borrowed a piece from GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"]. Rodrigue's Thinking About Blanche [pictured above] was the poster for the 2006 Tennessee Williams Festival, in New Orleans.

For a compelling Southern perspective on Williams' influence, visit "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's blog: http://bit.ly/Tennessee100.

Oh, and to catch up on the latest developments regarding the dynamic George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio, Wikipedia
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The Art of George Rodrigue ^AF

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

To our growing, global list of GoodBiz113 readers and advertisers, we bid a heartfelt "Happy St. Patrick's Day!"

To help illustrate the point, we've, uh, borrowed a piece from GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"]. Don't Grow Grass on Me [pictured], an acrylic on linen, is part of Rodrigue's "Green Dog" collection. Check it out at "Musings of an Artist's Wife," Wendy Rodrigue's compelling blog: http://bit.ly/GreenDog.

Oh, and for the latest developments regarding the always-bustling George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

Best to you and yours for a fun and safe three-days-before-spring-starts day!

SOURCES: Musings of an Artist's Wife, Rodrigue Studio
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The Art of George Rodrigue ^AF

Happy Holidays!

To our growing, global list of GoodBiz113 readers and advertisers, we bid a heartfelt "Happy Holidays!"

In order to help illustrate the point, we've borrowed a piece from GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"]. Measuring 20x16 and priced at $1,650 USD, "Evergreen Joy" [pictured] is part of Rodrigue's holiday collection. Check it out: http://bit.ly/RodrigueHoliday.

Oh, and for the latest developments regarding the always-bustling George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts: Youth Development Through Art in Education, go to: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

Best to you and yours for a healthy and happy holiday season, and a fulfilling and prosperous 2011.

SOURCE: Rodrigue Studio
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Rodrigue Creates One-of-a-Kind Artwork to Raise Funds for Youth Development, Animals in Need

GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] just announced that he's created a one-of-a-kind artwork -- "The Three Amigos" [pictured above] -- exclusively for charitybuzz®, to raise funds and awareness for his foundation, the George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts [GRFA], and for the Louisiana Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals [LA/SPCA].

Rodrigue has added hand embellishments -- using colored paint pens, as well as a pencil sketch -- to create this mixed-media piece. "The Three Amigos" is an original silkscreen print that has been signed and remarqued, and measures 22 X 28". It will be mounted and shipped flat to the winning bidder. Bidding at charitybuzz closes on Thursday, July 1, at 2:00 p.m. EDT.

Rodrigue's far-reaching GRFA advocates the importance of the visual arts in the development of our youth. GRFA encourages the use of art within all curricula, and supports a variety of art educational programs.

To learn more, please visit http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

LA/SPCA is a private nonprofit organization dedicated to the elimination of animal suffering. Chartered in 1888, they are the oldest and most comprehensive animal welfare organization in the state, providing care and basic medical services for thousands of homeless and unwanted animals each year.

For more information about the LA/SPCA, go to: http://la-spca.org/.

For the chance at adding Rodrigue's "The Three Amigos" to your collection -- and supporting two very worthy nonprofit organizations in the process -- go to: http://bit.ly/TheThreeAmigos.

SOURCE: George Rodrigue Studio
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April 30: Oprah Winfrey and Harpo Studios Mark First National 'No Phone Zone Day'

Today, Oprah Winfrey and Harpo Studios are taking a stand against distracted driving, launching a new public service announcement campaign, and joining forces with some of the country's pre-eminent transportation safety organizations to declare Friday, April 30, 2010, the first national "No Phone Zone Day."

A large-scale effort to honor victims of distracted driving, "No Phone Zone Day" will also educate and activate Americans to end the deadly driving habits that kill nearly 6,000 Americans a year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. The announcement was initally made April 6 on The Oprah Winfrey Show.

"A call or text isn't worth taking a life," said Winfrey. "We must not allow more mothers and fathers, daughters and sons, sisters and brothers to die before we take action against distracted driving. Let's put a stop to it now, by joining together on April 30 for national 'No Phone Zone Day,' and by making our cars a 'No Phone Zone.'"

"I've made it my mission at the DOT to end distracted driving," said U.S. Secretary of Transportation Ray LaHood. "We know that if we can get people to put away cell phones and other electronic devices when they are behind the wheel, we can save thousands of lives and prevent hundreds of thousands of injuries every year. That's why I'm proud to support and participate in Oprah's 'No Phone Zone Day.'"

Today, The Oprah Winfrey Show will present a special live episode devoted to ending distracted driving. In conjunction with the episode, Harpo Studios is mobilizing communities to take action at "No Phone Zone Day" viewing rallies to be held in Atlanta, Boston, Detroit, Los Angeles and Washington, D.C.

Oprah show partner stations -- WSB-TV Channel 2 in Atlanta, WCVB-TV Channel 5 in Boston, WXYZ Channel 7 in Detroit, KABC ABC7 in Los Angeles, and WJLA ABC7 in Washington, D.C. -- will support the rallies in their respective markets. The planned rallies will bring together victims' families, elected officials, advocacy organizations, parents, youth, and law enforcement to discuss best practices and steps to limit distracted driving in their own communities. In addition, a new "No Phone Zone" public service announcement campaign will be showcased on today's Oprah show.

A working coalition of transportation safety organizations will come together as part of "No Phone Zone Day" activities and viewing rallies across the country -- including LaHood and the U.S. Department of Transportation; the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration [NHTSA]; the Governors Highway Safety Association [GHSA]; the National Organizations for Youth Safety [NOYS]; FocusDriven; SADD [Students Against Destructive Decisions]; RADD, the Entertainment Industry's Voice for Road Safety; and more.

In addition, "No Phone Zone" corporate partners Sprint, General Motors/Chevrolet and Liberty Mutual will lend their support -- both for national "No Phone Zone Day" and in the coming months to spread the "No Phone Zone" message.

As a national call to action, all viewers and town hall participants will be asked to take the "No Phone Zone" pledge. By pledging, drivers agree to make their car a "No Phone Zone" and refrain from using their phone while driving, eliminating distractions from incoming calls, texts or e-mails.

To date, more than 160,000 people have signed Oprah's "No Phone Zone" pledge at Oprah.com. Many celebrities have already joined the cause, including Oscar® winners Sandra Bullock, Jeff Bridges and Mo'Nique; comedian Jerry Seinfeld; actress and icon Raquel Welch; Olympic superstar Shaun White; country music's Lady Antebellum; entertainer and entrepreneur Tyler Perry; the cast of TV's Glee; plus many more.

A 2008 NHTSA study indicated that, at any given moment during the daylight hours, more than 800,000 vehicles are being driven by someone using a hand-held cell phone. According to a 2005 study for the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety [IIHS], drivers are four times less likely to get into accidents serious enough to cause injury when they turn off their cell phones while behind the wheel.

For more information on "No Phone Zone Day," and to take the No Phone Zone pledge, please visit www.oprah.com/nophonezone.

For additional information on distracted driving, visit http://www.distraction.gov/.

About Harpo Studios
Harpo Studios is the home of Harpo Productions Inc., the most successful production company in daytime talk, producing the No. 1, award-winning The Oprah Winfrey Show and syndication's latest success, The Dr. Oz Show, as well as having developed Dr. Phil and Rachael Ray.

Harpo Productions creates and develops original TV programming for primetime, syndication and cable television, and operates Oprah.com, a premier lifestyle website. ZoCo Productions LLC, an affiliate of Harpo Productions Inc., and Sony Pictures Television co-produce The Dr. Oz Show.

Harpo Print LLC and Hearst Magazines publish the monthly O, The Oprah Magazine publication.

Harpo Films produces feature films and, through an exclusive deal with HBO, scripted television programming.

Harpo Radio Inc. produces Oprah Radio [XM channel 156, SIRIUS channel 195, as part of its "Best of XM" package] on SIRIUS XM Radio.

A joint venture between Oprah Winfrey and Discovery Communications, OWN: The Oprah Winfrey Network, a multi-platform company, will debut in January 2011 in approximately 80 million homes, on what is currently the Discovery Health Channel.

GoodBiz113's Take
Hooray for Oprah, to devote such significant broadcast time and creative resources in order to help get drivers to simply hang up their phones and focus on their task at hand: driving!

Has your company or organization signed Oprah's No Phone Zone pledge? If not, please do so now: http://bit.ly/BizNoPhoneZonePledge.

And then, of course, see that all of your personnel -- e.g., interns, sales reps, delivery persons, independent contractors, executives -- practice prudent, common-sense driving habits for the greater good.

Stay safe out there!

SOURCES: Harpo Studios, IIHS, NHTSA
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Rodrigue Releases Special-Edition 'Friend Me' Print to Mark 14,000-Fan Facebook Milestone

GoodBiz113 profilee George Rodrigue ["Louisiana Artist Brings Post-Katrina [Blue Dog] Relief to New Orleans"] has reached the 14,000-fan Facebook mark. Way to go, George!

To celebrate the occasion, the internationally renowned artist, author, social entrepreneur and philanthropist just released a special-edition, 500-print piece -- aptly titled "Friend Me" -- that's available online and for a limited time only. Each print is signed and numbered, measures 22 x 28 inches, and is priced at $500*. [*Subject to change without notice.]

To order your very own print, go to: http://bit.ly/FriendMe.

For information about the far-reaching George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts [GRFA], which supports youth development through art in education, please visit: http://bit.ly/RodrigueFoundation.

SOURCE: Rodrigue Studio
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Locke, Landrieu Announce $80 Million Recovery Act Investment to Expand Broadband Internet Access and Economic Opportunities in Louisiana

Today, U.S. Commerce Secretary Gary Locke [pictured], joined by Sen. Mary Landrieu, chair of the Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, announced an $80 million American Recovery and Reinvestment Act [Recovery Act] investment to help bridge the technological divide, boost economic growth, create jobs, and improve education and health care in Louisiana.

The grant will bring high-speed Internet access to more than 80 community anchor institutions -- including universities, K-12 schools, libraries, health-care facilities -- and lay the groundwork for bringing affordable broadband service to thousands of homes and businesses in the region.

The Louisiana Broadband Alliance, a collaboration among six state agencies, plans to deploy more than 900 miles of fiber-optic network to expand broadband Internet service in some of the most economically distressed regions of Louisiana. The 3,488-square-mile service area includes 12 impoverished parishes targeted by the state’s Louisiana Delta Initiative and a separate five-parish area that is home to four federally recognized Native American Indian tribes.

The new network would connect to the Louisiana Optical Network Initiative [LONI], a 1,600-plus mile fiber-optic network that connects Louisiana and Mississippi research universities to National LambdaRail and Internet2.

"This critical investment will expand computer and high-speed Internet service access to Louisiana residents most in need, helping to make them full participants in today’s 21st-century information economy," said Locke. "We are giving the people of Louisiana new tools to educate themselves, to promote their businesses, and to create more opportunities for their families and their community."

Earlier this week, Secretary Locke announced a $1.4 million grant to the Deaf Action Center of Louisiana, to provide on-demand, cost-effective sign-language interpretation at community anchor institutions, such as hospitals, courts, public-safety agencies, shelters, schools and libraries.

The Department of Commerce’s National Telecommunications and Information Administration’s [NTIA] Broadband Technology Opportunities Program [BTOP], funded by the Recovery Act, provides grants to support the deployment of broadband infrastructure, enhance and expand public computer centers, and encourage sustainable adoption of broadband service.

"Today, we have taken a big leap in our efforts to expand high-speed Internet throughout rural Louisiana, including the Delta parishes in the northeast part of our state," said Sen. Landrieu. "Creating jobs and spurring rural small-business growth, these new funds will increase broadband capacity at our homes, schools, and hospitals to advance education, research, and health-care delivery to areas in need of modern infrastructure.

"I am thankful for the Department of Commerce’s support of this, and the many innovative projects we have going on in Louisiana to improve broadband access."

Today’s announcement marks one of the many awards that Louisiana has received -- including five broadband expansion awards totaling more than $61 million.

"The Board of Regents has committed to small-business providers in the state that in utilizing the grant dollars, we will work together with the goal of ensuring that expenditures will complement the existing infrastructure and investment they have made," said Dr. Sally Clausen, commissioner of higher education for the Board of Regents. "We extend our deepest appreciation to Sen. Landrieu and Secretary Locke for this award that will better connect our schools and their students, thus providing them with better opportunities for education and economic success.

NTIA received more than 1,800 applications proposing projects totaling nearly $19 billion during the first BTOP funding round, and is now awarding grants on a rolling basis. NTIA is currently accepting BTOP applications for a second funding round.

Applications for Public Computer Centers and Sustainable Broadband Adoption projects are accepted through March 15, 2010; and applications for Comprehensive Community Infrastructure projects are accepted through March 26, 2010.

The American Recovery and Reinvestment Act provided a total of $7.2 billion to NTIA and the Department of Agriculture’s Rural Utilities Service [RUS] to fund projects that will expand access to and adoption of broadband services. Of that funding, NTIA will utilize $4.7 billion for grants to deploy broadband infrastructure in the U.S., expand public computer center capacity, and encourage sustainable adoption of broadband service. NTIA will announce all grant awards by Sept. 30, 2010.

For information about broadband funding under the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009, go to: http://www.broadbandusa.gov/.

SOURCES: U.S. Department of Agriculture, U.S. Department of Commerce, U.S. Senate Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship, The White House
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President Obama's First 100 Days Include $730 Million Jump-Start for America's Small Businesses

Today, as the nation marks President Barack Obama's first 100 days in office, small businesses can celebrate the strides that Obama has made on our behalf -- primarily, via the landmark American Recovery and Reinvestment Act of 2009 [Recovery Act], which he signed into law on Feb. 17, 2009. It is an unprecedented effort to jump-start America's economy; create or save millions of jobs; and put a down payment on addressing long-neglected challenges, so that our country can thrive in the 21st century.

The economic stimulus bill is an extraordinary response to a crisis unlike any since the Great Depression, and includes measures to modernize our nation's infrastructure; enhance energy independence; expand educational opportunities; preserve and improve affordable health care; provide tax relief; and protect those in greatest need.

Recovery Act Provides $730 Million to SBA
According to the U.S. Small Business Administration [SBA], the Recovery Act will have a significant impact on small businesses and on the credit crunch, providing tax incentives and financing opportunities that will help us create jobs.

The Recovery Act makes SBA part of the solution, providing it with specific tools to make it easier and less expensive for small businesses to get loans, give lenders new incentives to make more small business loans, and help unfreeze the secondary markets to boost liquidity in the credit markets.

More details on implementation will be coming during the next few weeks. For now, though, take note that the bill provides $730 million to SBA, and makes changes to the agency’s lending and investment programs so that they can reach more small businesses that need help.

The funding includes $375 million for temporarily eliminating fees on SBA-backed loans and raising SBA's guarantee percentage on some loans to 90 percent. The elimination of fees, announced on March 16, will remain in effect until the end of the calendar year or until the funding is exhausted. The elimination of fees is retroactive to the day the Recovery Act was signed into law.

Additional funding provisions include:

* $255 million for a new loan program to help small businesses meet existing debt payments

* $30 million for expanding SBA’s Microloan program -- enough to finance up to $50 million in new lending and $24 million in technical assistance grants to microlenders

* $20 million for technology systems to streamline SBA’s lending and oversight processes

* $15 million for expanding SBA’s Surety Bond Guarantee program

* $25 million for staffing up to meet demands for new programs

* $10 million for the SBA's Office of Inspector General

For more information about how SBA intends to implement Recovery Act funding, go to: http://www.sba.gov/recovery/information/index.html.

Next Steps
President Obama will conduct a prime-time news conference tonight on CBS, ABC, NBC, CNN, MSNBC and CNBC at 7 p.m. CST. In case you miss watching and/or recording the live event, CNN will rebroadcast the news conference at 12 a.m. CST.

TIME photographer Callie Shell has compiled a fascinating collection of photos depicting President Obama's first 100 days in the Oval Office. Several are published in the May 4 issue of TIME magazine. You can also view the entire photo essay online at http://time.com/100days.

SOURCES: U.S. Small Business Administration, White House
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Verve Inc. Puts Sustainable Bite on All-Natural Chewing Gum and Educational Candy-Making Kits for Kids

The Company
Verve Inc.
305 Dudley St.
Providence, RI 02907
Phone: [401] 351-6415
Web: www.gleegum.com/

Founded: 1996
Employees: Approximately 5
Annual Sales: $1 million - $1.5 million

Contact: Deborah Schimberg, Founder & President deborah@gleegum.com

The Business
Verve Inc. makes all-natural Glee Gum in six flavors [cinnamon, peppermint, tangerine, bubblegum, spearmint, triple berry], plus educational Make Your Own Candy Kits [chocolate, gummies, chewing gum] for kids.

Rather than use synthetic ingredients for its Glee Gum, Verve promotes grass-roots economic development by sourcing directly from chicleros who sustainably harvest their super-chewy natural chicle from Sapodilla trees in the rainforests of Central America. Instead of using artificial sweeteners [e.g., aspartame], Glee Gum is slightly sweetened with natural cane sugar and rice syrup. To watch the entire "Tree to Glee" process, click here.

The Partners
Education is at Verve Inc.'s very core. Online, kids, parents, teachers, group leaders and party planners can access a wealth of educational media that helps people connect with the global sources of their food.

Offline, Verve Inc. has affiliated with several prestigious nonprofit organizations to promote economic justice, environmental sustainability plus good, clean, healthy living:
* 1% For The Planet, a growing alliance of businesses -- currently, 1,158 companies in all [e.g., Patagonia] -- that donate at least 1% of their annual revenues to 1,733 environmental organizations worldwide
* American Vegetarian Association [AVA], created to promote the interests and concerns of individuals and organizations involved in the preservation, propagation, and distribution of vegetarian ideas and products
* Feingold® Association of the United States, dedicated to promoting additive-, preservative- and synthetic food-coloring-free nutrition
* Green America [formerly "Co-op America"], whose mission is to harness economic power — the strength of consumers, investors, businesses, and the marketplace — to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society
* Trees for the Future, an agroforestry resource center helping people in developing countries improve their rural livelihoods through the introduction of environmentally sustainable land management projects focused on beneficial tree planting

The Buzz
"The Better World Shopping Guide -- 2nd Edition: Every Dollar Makes a Difference" is the leading source of info [pocket-sized and otherwise] for ranking consumer goods according to their producers' level of social responsibility, environmentally friendly [or not] manufacturing practices, etc. The guide gives Glee Gum top scores across the board.

For anyone seeking an all-natural chewing gum, Glee Gum is the best alternative to standard fare [e.g., Wrigley's]. According to Erin Nypaver, an Amazon customer/reviewer: "This is the best aspartame-free gum on the market!!! It was so hard finding a gum that didn't contain dangerous chemicals and artificial ingredients. This is it!"

GoodBiz113's editor and publisher also appreciates its artificial sweetener- and preservative-free quality, and is especially fond of cinnamon Glee Gum. [Think Dentyne, only healthier and sustainably sourced.]

Leadership Q&A
Kari Larson, GoodBiz113: Verve is primarily categorized as a toy and hobby goods wholesaler. In terms of your company's identity then, are your Make Your Own Candy Kits Verve's No. 1 driver, or is it Glee Gum?

Deborah Schimberg, Verve Inc.: Glee Gum is the No. 1 driver. Verve would probably be more accurately categorized as a natural candy manufacturer rather than a toy and hobby goods wholesaler. However, our two product lines [Glee Gum and the Make Your Own Candy Kits] can be categorized many ways. Both lines are "green"/eco-friendly and all-natural. The Candy Kits are also educational toys.


GoodBiz113: Verve is a member of 1% For The Planet, meaning that the company is part of a global alliance of businesses that contribute at least 1% of their revenues to help promote a healthy planet. Given all the doom-and-gloom noise about these challenging economic times, how does a small company like Verve manage to give back so generously?

Verve Inc.: The environment deserves support now more than ever. We do what we can and wish we could do more!


GoodBiz113: Verve has partnered with several organizations to promote education, environmental sustainability, social justice and grass-roots economic development. You could simply access chicle in conventional and, presumably, more cost-effective ways. Why devote the human and financial resources to partnering with local chicleros, etc.? Who benefits from such alliances?

Verve Inc.: Frankly, it would be much easier to get all-synthetic gum base -- much less expensive and much less hassle! However, the company was founded with the idea of providing an income for chicleros, who are essentially the stewards of the rainforest in the Petén. We feel strongly that we want our business to be a vehicle, to the extent that it can be, for sustainable development.


GoodBiz113: What does Verve's future hold, in terms of new products, market reach, partnerships, etc.?

Verve Inc.: We're working on Glee Sugar Free and some other new products. We also hope to eventually produce our own gum base and create as organic a gum as possible. And we recently became certified as a woman-owned business and hope to find ways to work with other WBENC [Women's Business Enterprise National Council] companies collaboratively.


GoodBiz113: What is the greatest lesson that any aspiring social entrepreneur could learn from Verve Inc.?

Verve Inc.: Keep on keeping on! Apart from that, stay as close as you can to the reason that you're getting involved with business in the first place. It's hard to compete and it's hard to get one's story out, so the more consistent you can be and the more involved you can be with the triple bottom line, the more you can differentiate yourself and your business.


GoodBiz113: Any other key points that you'd like to make?

Verve Inc.: We've got the cutest mascot...


Verve Inc.'s Glee Gum and educational Make Your Own Candy Kits are available online and throughout North America. Check out the company's handy-dandy store locator to find the retailer closest to you.
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Franken Frames U.S. Senate Race at Farmfest Debate

As today's three-day 27th Annual Farmfest kicked off at the Gilfillan Estate in Redwood County, Minn., U.S. Senate challenger Al Franken took on incumbent Sen. Norm Coleman [D-Minn.] during their first debate of the general election.

During the course of the debate, Franken effectively framed the race while making his case that Minnesotans need a senator who will stand up for them -- not the myriad special interests with which Coleman has been linked. The upshot: Franken's strong performance demonstrated that he's ready to bring change to Washington as a United States Senator.

"Al Franken kept this debate focused on the issues -- the economy, energy prices, farm policy -- and on Norm Coleman's record of selling out the middle class," said Andy Barr, communications director of the Franken campaign. "That's how Al won the debate, and that's how we'll win this election."

Franken discussed his vision to create new opportunities in Greater Minnesota by supporting our family farmers, revitalizing rural Minnesota, and investing in education, health care, R&D, and infrastructure. Franken believes farming is vital to Minnesota and to the country's well-being. He highlighted the need to strengthen the middle class and change the broken system in Washington.

Franken also effectively used the debate as an opportunity to hold Norm Coleman accountable for his record of backing George W. Bush, putting special interests ahead of Minnesotans, and supporting Big Oil.

According to the Center for Responsive Politics, Coleman has received more contributions from the oil and gas industry than any other senator in Minnesota history. Coleman has taken at least $244,900 from the oil and gas industry since 2002 -- over $60,000 more than the next senator, Rod Grams.

Coleman Has Supported President Bush Almost 90% of the Time
On June 29, 2008, shortly after interviewing Sen. Coleman, award-winning WCCO-TV reporter and Sunday morning news anchor Esme Murphy spoke on-air with Larry Jacobs, a University of Minnesota professor and esteemed political analyst.

"Let's talk about the campaign ad I mentioned, in which the senator's wife brings up the point that a lot of people think that he is a rubber stamp for the Bush administration," said Murphy. "If you look at the record, definitely for the first four years, he was. I mean, he really did vote with the president. In the past two years, he has clearly distanced himself."

Want proof? Check out CQ Vote Studies, a service provided by Congressional Quarterly's CQ.com. On the site's "Bush Era Scores" chart, one can see that, during his time in office, Norm Coleman has supported President Bush an average of 83% of the time -- including a whopping 98% of the time in 2003, his first year in the Senate.

Rubber stamper? You decide.


GoodBiz113's take: U.S. small businesses fuel nearly 75% of our nation's economy -- and family farmers play no small part in that. Al Franken's common-sense proposals are good for all small businesses -- including farmers -- and for America as a whole.

SOURCES: Al Franken for U.S. Senate, Center for Responsive Politics, Congressional Quarterly, WCCO-TV
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Minnesota Native Al Franken Files to Run for U.S. Senate

Today, Al Franken officially filed with the Minnesota Secretary of State to run for the U.S. Senate.

Franken was joined by his wife, Franni [pictured], his daughter, Thomasin, and more than 100 cheering supporters on the steps of the Minnesota State Office Building.

"I would say I'm excited to get to work," said Al Franken. "But we're already working hard to spread our message of ending the war, rebuilding our economy, and fixing our broken health care system across the state. I'm so proud to have my family, my team, and my coalition for change standing alongside me -- and I'm ready to go to Washington to stand up for the people of Minnesota."

DFL-endorsed Franken -- a true ally of small business, farmers, labor, environmentalists, educators, students, soldiers, veterans, consumers and countless others seeking a new direction for our nation -- was born in St. Louis Park, Minn. He's challenging Sen. Norm Coleman, a Democrat-turned-Republican from Brooklyn, N.Y., for the seat once held by the late Sen. Paul Wellstone, who died in a plane crash in October 2002.

SOURCE: Al Franken for U.S. Senate
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To learn more about Al Franken's politics, check out his New York Times bestseller, "Lies and the Lying Liars Who Tell Them: A Fair and Balanced Look at the Right."

Committee Examines Workforce Issues for Small Businesses in Renewable Energy

Instability in oil-producing regions and rising energy prices have made it clear that America needs to move towards energy independence. To meet this demand, the renewable-energy sector is increasing rapidly, with small businesses at the forefront of this expansion. Just last year, biodiesel production reached 225 million gallons. Today, with 148 biodiesel plants in operation, and close to 100 factories under construction, this industry is expected only to grow.

During yesterday's hearing, the House Committee on Small Business reviewed the state of the renewable-energy industry, and potential barriers that could limit its expansion -- including access to a well-trained, skilled workforce, and possible solutions to these obstacles. A bill introduced by committee member Bruce Braley [D-Iowa, pictured] provides funding for bioenergy workforce education.

"This field is still in its infancy -- but it is having significant economic impact," said Rep. Braley, chairman of the Subcommittee on Contracting and Technology. "The potential for new business and job creation is huge.

"Without a qualified workforce, the renewable energy industry will have difficulty filling open positions and will run the risk of falling short of its full potential. That's why new training programs are crucial."

Many small producers don't have the capacity to conduct adequate onsite training, yet a skilled workforce is essential for their survival. To surmount this obstacle and encourage continued growth in renewable energy, Braley has introduced the National Endowment for Workforce Education in Renewables and Agriculture [NEW ERA] Act of 2007, which will provide funding and programs to expand the renewable-energy workforce.

Under the bill, grants would be awarded to community colleges to create renewable-energy workforce education and training programs, allowing for increased investment in human capital. These initiatives will provide a new set of bioenergy workers, ensuring that the expansion of the renewable-fuel industry will have adequate support from skilled professionals equipped with the tools to stay competitive in the field.

"In order for this growing industry to truly flourish, our workforce must have the skills and knowledge necessary to stay on the cutting edge of new technologies," Braley noted. "Proper training will ensure that the renewable-energy sector will continue to develop in a sustainable way."

The renewable-energy industry not only serves as a strong alternative source of energy, but it also creates thousands of jobs nationwide. In 2006 alone, the ethanol industry created over 160,000 new, good-paying jobs -- many of which included retirement and healthcare benefits. The industry's growth also helps to replace some of the 3.1 million manufacturing jobs that have been lost in the U.S. since 2000.

During the hearing, committee members examined ways to ensure that there is "smart growth" within the industry -- including implementation of the NEW ERA Act. Members also heard expert testimony on the importance of ensuring the availability of a strong workforce, and viable ways to go about doing so.

"With the vast potential for renewable-energy production right here in the heart of our own country, we have the critical opportunity to reduce our dependence on foreign oil while creating jobs; it's a win-win situation," Braley said. "For the security and prosperity of our nation, it's time to shift our energy dependence from the Middle East to the Midwest."

You can view parts of yesterday's hearing by visiting YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/view_play_list?p=B90F9338F9143970.

Sources: Congress Merge, GovTrack.us, U.S. House Committee on Small Business

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