Youth Boxing Program Transforms Young Lives in Detroit

By: Shandra Martinez
In Detroit, Khali Sweeney’s Downtown Boxing Gym (DBG) is making a profound impact on the city’s children, providing them with opportunities and support he wished he had when he was growing up on the city’s East Side.
Legally Speaking: Avoiding Regrettable Hiring Decisions

With workforce participation lagging well below available job openings and a working environment that is more skill-set specific, hiring in today’s market can be a tall order. This pressure on the job market is only heightened during the busy holiday season.
Marshall’s Fudge marks a century of sweetness

By: Shandra Martinez
For legions of longtime customers, visiting Marshall’s Fudge in Mackinaw City can be nostalgic. The aroma of the shop and taste of fudge brings back special memories of family and friends.
Creative Counsel: Finding the Right Hues

The colors that are part of your company’s brand are integral to your marketing – and can influence people’s perceptions, emotions, and feelings about your brand.
Here are several ways in which color impacts marketing materials:
Brand Identity: Colors are often a crucial component of a brand’s identity and logo.
Guest Column: Building Strong Partnerships with Michigan’s Liquor Retailers

Kristin Beltzer, Chair
Michigan Liquor Control Commission
Michigan Department of Licensing & Regulatory Affairs
The Michigan Liquor Control Commission (MLCC) recently celebrated its 90th anniversary serving the business needs of the state’s 23,194 retail licensees.
Regulatory Rundown: December 2023/January 2024 Michigan Retailer

Regulations Affecting Your Business
Michigan’s minimum wage increases to $10.33 on Jan. 1, 2024
On Jan. 1, 2024, Michigan’s minimum wage rate will increase from $10.10 to $10.33 per hour as set by Michigan’s Improved Workforce Opportunity Wage Act of 2018 which establishes the annual schedule of increases.
Under the Dome: Early Legislative Adjournment is a Gift

Legislative work officially ceased on Nov. 14. This is earlier than the legislature has adjourned in over 55 years. Typically, lawmakers are still in session well into December. Let’s call this what it is: a gift for any business owner hoping for less regulation.
From the CEO: Sense the Joy of Buying Nearby

If you’re looking for a new show to binge over the holidays, look no further than All the Light We Cannot See, the new mini series on Netflix.
Michigan Retailers’ October Sales Fall Over September

Retailers’ 3-month outlook optimism grows as owners look toward 2024.
Michigan Retailers Association today reports that October 2023 sales fell from September, landing at 43.1 on the 100-point Retail Index,