As we roll into the one-year mark since the 2016 Presidential Election, we have much to be thankful for. The stock market as measured by the S&P 500* recently closed at its very highest level ever recorded. The unemployment rate is at 4.2% as measured by the Bureau of Labor statistics. Genesee County’s housing market has returned to pre-financial crisis levels. Clients ask me if these stats really have to do with our current President or not, and my response is often, “It doesn’t hurt that the only thing President Trump cares about is business and the economy.” I won’t give him credit for everything; but, I do believe that the American capitalists have had their animal spirits awakened and are making business decisions based on the new reality that businesses and the economy will remain the Trump Administration’s primary focus. Whether this administration lasts six more months, three more years, or seven more years, it’s almost a sure thing that President Trump hopes to be known as the “most pro-business President” in history.
I suppose I could wait until December to write a holiday-themed column, but why?
No-Shave November is about more than embracing your inner Charlie Chaplin or Grizzly Adams. It began in the U.S. as a Facebook campaign in 2009, and encourages men to grow out their facial hair for cancer fundraising.
Christmas is coming – and if you’re anything like the rest of us, you try to start shopping early, but struggle with getting started. No worries! We gathered some unique and affordable stocking stuffers offered by local merchants. Let us not forget that November 25th is American Express Shop Small Saturday. You’re encouraged to celebrate your community by supporting the small businesses that make it special.
A tax system should satisfy three criteria: it should raise sufficient revenue for the government to conduct its operations; it should minimize the economic distortions associated with taxation; and, it should minimize the costs taxpayers pay simply to comply with the tax code.
I’m sure you’ve heard Sarah Palin’s quote about hockey moms: “They say the difference between a hockey mom and a pit bull – lipstick.” I’ve never really completely agreed with that. Hockey moms are so much more. They are tough, dedicated, hardworking, caring, and they have the gumption to help their child to succeed in the fast-paced world of hockey.
Attention Halloween fans: It’s time to dress-up and have fun! Before you go out and break the bank on a costume, let me show you how you can “shop your closet” and create a special look no one will forget!
As cooler temperatures set in, some Michiganders are already eagerly awaiting next spring. Others are excited about the culinary and scenic changes that come with autumn and winter. I enjoy switching my wardrobe and recipes to embrace the chill of Michigan weather. In other words, Get out your sweaters, it’s soup season! Soups are quick and inexpensive to make from scratch, a great way to use a variety of veggies in one dish, and they provide a chance to try your hand with the fall’s best fresh, locally-harvested produce.
Are you searching for something … you know, like a dead AA battery, a remote control that doesn’t actually work with anything, or maybe a half-used roll of Scotch tape?
There are ominous echoes of the past in this fall’s crop of “Halloween movies,” which is what we call them – even though most of the season’s signal scarers will be unleashed well in advance of October 31.
As part of a tax reform package, the President and Congress have expressed a desire to sharply cut personal and corporate income tax rates in order to spur economic growth. The reality of the federal government’s fiscal situation presents a challenge to this.
