The 15 small-business owners meeting with the president Tuesday include the CEO of a Louisiana construction company, the founder of a Michigan trucking company, and the co-founder of a Wisconsin brewing company. 
From New Glarus:
I had the most interesting day at the White House. They have been holding meetings around the nation for three years. I think this was my fourth meeting with the White House Business Council, but it is the first time I got to meet Vice President Biden and President Obama. 15 small business owners and the Senior Financial Advisors plus staff in the Roosevelt Room. One big oval slice of tree with us packed around it. They discussed the economic recovery and asked us for ideas to get it moving faster. People bought up different thoughts like assisting states with capturing sales tax, streamlining the application process for Gov. Contracts and programs. I brought up health care costs and skilled labor education. They were receptive and thoughtful in their responses.
This Administration is focused on jobs. They are serious about change. Over 1 Trillion in savings and cuts have ALREADY been enacted. NO one needs to wonder if they are serious or willing to make cuts- they already have and are willing to make more. They hope Republicans are willing to have everyone participate in recovery. Meaning fair taxation for earnings over 250,000 a year. They see the fiscal cliff as threatening to our economic recovery. They are cautiously optimistic.
They say at least protect the middle class. With one vote that can be done.
They were listening. Very sharp, focused and funny. I sat across the table from Obama and Biden. The roundtable discussion lasted for over an hour. The woman who started Dansko was there along with Gov. Contractors, an accounting firm, a mushroom farmer. I called Joe by his first name. Which got me a wink and later a kiss on the check. Obama gave me some of his White House beer and said he wants to hear back on my opinion.
I brought them some Serendipity. Then I ran out jumped in a taxi and caught the last flight back. All in all a very interesting day. But I am glad to be home.
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