"Marlobama Madness"
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I recently posted a response to a Bay City Times article that prompted me to start -- A local group that can and will maneuver local forces into advantageous positions for success and continued growth. This, has evoked a HUGE response, within minutes of my posting such. I have to say, I am so very proud of this community, willing to come together and bring forth necessary change.
I invite the public, through this column to join me in promoting change for our beautiful community!
Bay City Times Article: Longtime Bay City businesses closing because of economy
My Bay City Times Article Response:
Negative comments are not what we need right now, positive concepts in moving this city forward are.
Bales is right on the money, businesses need, more than ever, to advertise and market their products and services. Even if they have never applied a marketing strategy in the past or have been a staple to the community for decades. Cut back on other expenses and stay consistently in the public eye with effective and affordable forms of advertising.
I have been in marketing for 24 years and see this economy as a HUGE opportunity to give businesses an edge to stay above the rest by simply reminding potential customers that they are "alive and well" in these times.
Coupons are the most effective way to ensure that clients will walk through that door and spend their money in their establishment vs. another. Everyone is looking to save a dime and rightly so. Folks, utilize your advertising dollars and get in the "coupon war" before closing your door.
Bales also mentioned partnering with other businesses to increase traffic and save advertising dollars. I could not agree more. In fact, as the Sales & Marketing Director for O.J. Advertising Inc., and Co-Host for the Tri City Buzz Television Show, I recently pondered on the same concept. In need of a main show sponsor to continue this community program I decided that no one company in these hard economic times could afford to put forth the dollars necessary to do so. Therefore, I decided to approach groups of folks, such as the Premier Sponsors from the Bay Area Chamber of Commerce to be the main show sponsor "Tri City Buzz, brought to you by...". The amount of money needed, broken down to individual companies (Premier Sponsors for instance, approximately 22) is not a large investment for them yet I can still give each and every one, not to mention the Chamber itself the same exposure and effective results.
This is not something in over two decades of being in this business, I would ever have pondered, but now, I think it is a phenomenal strategy and everyone wins. Coming together as a community to keep the community strong and businesses moving foward is what is necessary. Combining the strengths of the entire Tri-Cities will also give us the building blocks needed in moving forward through this crisis.
We should all support those in need. Each and everyone that can ... should! With my position, I try to find whatever I can to ensure my clients find a strategy that gives them a return on investment, if it doesn't work, I keep trying until it does at no charge. It is what it is, it won't get better by being a hard a&%. If clients aren't paying their bills, I work with them, why not? What good does writing off the debt and ruining a business relationship do? Absolutely nothing but working with them through these times will pay off in the end and hopefully, I get their continued business not to mention respect when it all turns around and I do believe, it will, sooner than we think if we all help out in any way that we can.
Maybe the landlords of some of these businesses who have renters contemplating closing their doors should consider working with them on rent through these times? What good does an empty space do and no rent coming in? Why not work with these people who have rented and paid for years and maybe give them (landlords...your not going to like this but I ask for your ear and your heart for these businesses) 3 months rent free until they can catch up? Your going to sit on empty space "rent free" for at least that long after they are gone anyways...and sadly, probably longer. Rent is usually one of the biggest monthly expenses and is usually the "straw that broke the camels back" for them in deciding to close their doors.
I just think we as a community can take our own businesses/talents/resources and work with others. Remember the bartering days? They are here again. Have a heart for your city. You will somehow be affected if you do not, whether it be your children/grandchildren moving away from you someday to find better paying jobs or whatever the circumstance, what goes around comes around and this city needs arms to hold it together. Be a part of the glue that can hold this community together, I beg you all who have the opportunity to do so! Step up to the plate any way that you can...be a part, it will come back to you tenfold!
Email to clients and entrepreneurs:
I may sound like Obama, but it is time for change here in Bay City.
Everyone, encompasses something they can do and it begins by opening your eyes and pondering ways in which we can help. Is anyone interested in joining a group I am putting together to pool our resources and by resources, I don't mean "money" I mean the things each and every one of us, as a group coming together can offer to those facing hard times. The small businesses in our community need hope before closing their doors. The "little guy" (small businesses) brings forth prosperity for the corporate "big dog".
Together, I promise you, we can help. I urge you to get involved. I know...I know...None of us have the time to get involved in yet another "group", however, we need to make the time. I think meeting just once per month over the next 6 months could bring forth changes that we can all look back on and say we did something when it was needed most.
I just cannot sit back and watch this happen any longer. See the Bay City Times article (above link) and my response to such. What is happening here is a travesty and I believe together we can make a difference. Every business that closes it's doors, big or small is one step closer to the company you work for closing it's own.
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Lowell says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:33 PM
This is a strong push to make a change people, don't ignore it!
Marlo: You did a superb job in composing your thoughts in the letter you sent. I hope it receives some response from people who take your suggestions. It would seem to me that a lot of the people who responded to the TIMES article are Bay City natives who grew up going to a much different downtown than what exists now (or at least, the last time I was back which was in 2005). "That" downtown was a mix of strong anchor department stores the likes of Wendland's, Oppenheims, Sam's Brothers and WR Knepp...then bolstered by a strong Bay City Cash Co, Penny's and a Sears store close-by. With these power draws, well run independently owned stores in all categories did well. I know that first hand, since my family owned Burton's Jewelry...and in the 80's we owned WBCM Radio when it's studios were in the Davidson Building (and we had this sports nut by the name of Cunningham doing the city's first sports talk show on radio!). Sadly these giants of retailing did not fall into the hands of family members and the stores went out of business. (as did our radio station...Bay City has "no" local station with studios in the city whatsoever) I know Tom Tabor Sr. quite well and his children have done an admirable job keeping Herman Hiss up to their high standards. With weaker merchants filling in the "holes," you don't have that longevity factor which allowed the businesses of the 70's and 80's to survive those economic downturns and in today's world, it takes a LOT to survive, especially with the city's diminished population base...an older one at that...and the current retailing familiarity with anybody under 30 that a "mall" is the most important center for retail activity. In 1973 when Fashion Square opened, it took a good ten years for that area to catch on with Bay City shoppers since our Downtown was so strong and vibrant. What is needed is people like yourself to impart some "soul" and "heart" to what the core downtown area can be and how people need to address competitive forces and create their own island of "desire" on he part of the city's population. I wish your efforts well and thanks for sharing your letter with me. Lowell Homburger Charlotte, NC |
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Birchmeir says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:35 PM
I believe you are on the right track Marlo. I would be more than willing to help in whatever way I can. You are a trooper for doing this... at least giving it a try.. Sign me up.... Duane
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DBRogers says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:36 PM
Congratulations, Marlo...a well thought out and inspiring message..Count on me
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StarlyteProd says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:37 PM
Go Marlo!!!
Its needed. Kyle Hanley |
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FinancialEdgeCU says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:39 PM
H Marlo,
Although my political inclinations run to conservative republican, lol, I am all about what you're saying, so count me in and keep me posted. Diane Szczepanski |
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Anonymous Says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:41 PM
Barack Obama's first act as President
36 President Barack Obama signs his first act as president, a proclamation declaring a national day of renewal and reconciliation and calling on Americans to serve one another, after being sworn in as the 44th President of the United States during the inaugural ceremony in Washington Tuesday, Jan. 20, 2009. (AP) |
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DKane says:
On January 24, 2009
at 09:56 PM
Dear Marlo,
I would like to give kudos to you on all of your continued success and wonderful ideas such as this. We are behind you girl and all for marlobama madness. Give me a shout next week and let me know what we can do from our end of the spectrum. Even though your no longer in the tech world, and the fantastic "Marlo geek" that we have come to know and love, you are still a bright light of innovation. Count Chemical in on your train!!! Save us a seat and let's ride! |
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Burden says:
On January 26, 2009
at 07:58 AM
Good idea, but how much you wanna bet, it goes nowhere? Talk is cheap. Everyone says they want to help but noone ever does. It is a shame. Good luck though, I will be curious to see if this goes anywhere.
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UnitedWay says:
On January 26, 2009
at 09:33 AM
Count on us!
Steve Rajewski |
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downtownb2b says:
On January 26, 2009
at 10:10 AM
I AM one of the "little guys" facing the possibility of closing my doors because I cannot afford the rent. Thank you thank you thank you. I am not only interested in being involved in your group but need assistance. I will call you directly.
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Susan says:
On January 26, 2009
at 10:16 AM
Sadly, this comes too late for us. I only wish we would have had your spirit and dedication to this beautiful community in the past. Ya never know, with your perseverance that appears to be full steam ahead, maybe we can make a come back. Good luck
What is perseverance? Perseverance is commitment, hard work, patience, endurance. Perseverance is being able to bear difficulties calmly and without complaint. Perseverance is trying again and again. You show perseverance when you ... SPEAK UP and pool your resources like you Marlo! |
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Anonymous Says:
On January 26, 2009
at 10:23 AM
Bartering is a great way to get access to goods or services that you wouldn't be able to afford otherwise.
Negotiation, exchange and networking have always been your strength Ms. Marlo! Keep it up and bring forth change with the tools you can provide this city! |
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RonMil says:
On January 26, 2009
at 10:42 AM
Marlo, a year ago, I condemned you for leaving the technology (VOIP) arena and your own consulting firm that did so very much for today's communication needs and the business community. I simply could not understand why you would go work for someone else?
You told me that you wanted to simplify your life for your boys and was in search of an avenue to have a voice for the community which you felt you would have in taking this job for OJ Advertising. I now applaud you and am able to see what it is YOU saw when you accepted this position. I want to apologize for every doubting your intentions and we are behind you 100%! Go girl! |
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trexx0072002 Says:
On February 02, 2009
at 11:18 AM
I agree with Marlo,
We need to be positive and slow down on the negative attitude and become more pro active with regartds to our beautiful downtown area. As a child in the 60s and 70s I remember going to downtown Bay City and boy what a time I would have. The stores like Kreskies, Sears and JC Pennys along with many other stores made a day shopping something to look forward to. I especially looked forward to the Downtown Sidewalk Dyas; a festival to look forward to. Carniuval rides; storefront shopping and plenty of fine places to eat. All directed towards the working class customer. Really Bay City is a "Working Class" town adn we should be proud of who we are and remember that. Additionally; I feel we should be looking at recruiting bigger corporate companies to the downtown area; the GAP; Fashion Bug Plus; Additional Men's Shops; Sporting Goods Stores; and even Movie Theatres or imagine a Chuckie Chees for the family experience. Bay City always has and always will be a special place to me. The Downtown needs to attract the familys back with resonably priced products for the working class citizens. Lets get back to a larege scale "Sidewalk Days" with a carnival, and a host of other family oriented festivals that are wallet friendly. We already have a lot going on the river front but we need more events that cost less and utlimate;ly the volume of people will make a profit equal to that of expensivre events that cost more. Lets get together; brain storm and see what we can do. Lets make Bay City a friendly place to visit for all and offer a pleasant family environment where a fmaily can enjoy a day downtown. Finally; we need to lighten up and enjoy what we have. Take a look at downtown Makinaw City. What a great vision that community had. As my grandfather once told me; " Stop talking and get doing". T REX Bay City |
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michelle72 Says:
On February 02, 2009
at 11:47 AM
Asking landowners to "spot" unsuccessful businesses is not the answer. I disagree that rent is "the straw that breaks the camel's back." People with good products and business practices are making it in Bay City.
Bay City has some of the lowest rates in the Mid-West. People who own rental property in Bay City have bills to pay, too. As a landlord, I would rather deal with a vacancy than deal with the liabilities (insurance, utilities, etc.) that can be passed my way by someone who doesn't have his/her act together. |
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reahlberg Says:
On February 04, 2009
at 12:09 PM
Very well written.
I heard Governor Grandholm mentioned in her State of the State address to the Michigan Legislature that we should promote "Buy Michigan" to keep those dollars here in Michigan. Buy Bay City is also not a bad idea either. Inspiration only comes with the confidence people have in their ability to keep their jobs and stay economically viable. |
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DowCorningOfficial says:
On September 01, 2009
at 12:59 PM
Marlo,
I hear your putting together another "Marlobama Madness" board meeting. Please forward the information to our executive offices and we will surely attend and the answer to your question, YES we will sit on the board. The surrounding communities can count on you making a change and you may count on us to support your efforts my dear. |
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MyBayCity Staff |
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