Seminar slated to discuss issues for Michigan business

By Sara L. Smith
INDEX Staff Writer

GRAND BLANC TWP. — What lies in store for Michigan’s business economy?

That’s one question that could be answered at “The Next Michigan,” an educational workshop aimed at business and civic leaders and ordinary citizens concerned with the status of the economy on both a statewide and local level. hosted by M.R. Spencer Financial Services.

The workshop will be held at 6 p.m. July 24 at the Holiday Inn-Gateway Centre, off of Hill Rd. Between 300 and 500 people are expected to attend, including some political dignitaries on both state and federal levels.

The Q & A seminar, featuring guest economist Rodney Johnson, an author and president of H.S. Dent Foundation, will focus on where Michigan’s economy is headed, how the tide can be turned in a positive direction and whether the current crisis is as bad as it appears to be.

“If there is a financial question anyone in the community wants to have answered, you would call him (Johnson),” said Mike Spencer, owner of M.R. Spencer Financial Services.

The program is expected to focus on how to manage individual finances and investments in these currently trying economic times. “It’s going to be about how you can manage the money you have right now and keep what you have,” Spencer said.

Indeed, ways to survive in the current Michigan economy will be discussed at length. Johnson is expected to talk about the possibility of future economic downturns in specific areas of the statewide marketplace and the face of the “new economy,” particularly a renewed focus on education and higher tech jobs requiring specialized training and skills.

“He’s going to talk about investing in areas of the economy expected to thrive,” said Spencer. “Areas like healthcare and technology are expected to grow.”

The transition away from an automotive industry-based economy to one of technology will be emphasized, said Rick Williams, manager of M.R. Spencer Financial Services.

“The more information you have to use, the more you can prepare yourself for the future and get the education to get the jobs available in the future,” Williams indicated.
For more information, call 810-732-2722.