Small business happenings for Aug. 22

Ramsey simulcast
to be aired in La Grande

Nationally-known financial author, radio host and television personality Dave Ramsey is the presenter in a Sept. 21 business and leadership simulcast received in hundreds of locations across the country,  including Valley Fellowship Church in La Grande.

Ramsey will give his talk on “EntreLeadership,” a system he defines as “the process of leading to cause a venture to grow and prosper.” Topics in his presentation include leadership development, a culture of excellence, the art of selling, thriving and leading during chaos, and more.

Valley Fellowship, with the help of Legacy Ford and Grande Ronde Sign Company, will host the simulcast. Mat Barber, owner of Grande Ronde Sign, said the event is a great opportunity for Union County residents to learn from a master businessman and creative leader.

“People will also have the opportunity to meet and network with other like minded business and organization leaders from Union County,” Barber added.

Cost for the event is $39 and includes a workbook and lunch. To sign up, go to http://www.daveramsey.com/entreleadership/simulcast/

Union County Chamber members will have an opportunity to sign up through the Chamber and receive a 10 percent discount. A portion of the purchase price will go the Chamber.

Legacy earns President’s Award

Legacy Ford Lincoln on Island Avenue is among an elite group of Ford and Lincoln dealerships to be recognized with the 2011 President’s Award by Ford Motor Company.

The prestigious award honors dealerships that excelled in automotive retailing in 2011, providing exceptional customer service and satisfaction.

In Ford’s Seattle Region, only nine dealers out of about 130 are honored. Sean Weingarten, northwest regional manager for Ford, said that in order to win the award, dealers must exceed customer expectations every day in every department.

“The pursuit of excellence is not for the faint of heart. It requires passion, tenacity and hard work,” he said.

Legacy also won the award in 2004, 2006, 2009 and 2011.

Marsing joins RE/MAX
as licensed broker 

Lifelong Union County resident Christy Marsing recently became a licensed broker with the RE/MAX real estate team serving northeast Oregon.

Prior to joining the company, Marsing spent many years working in the areas of public relations, customer service, marketing and technology based promotions. She said she looks forward to leveraging her experience to promote properties.

The local RE/MAX office is located at 2106 Island Avenue. Reach Marsing at 541-963-1000, ext 306, or by cell, 541-786-1613.

Jerry Grant expands
Mt. Emily Ale House

Jerry Grant, owner of the Mt. Emily Ale House, says he’s expanding his hours of operation and adding new services.

Grant said the ale house at 1202 Adams Avenue is now open seven days a week, and serving a brunch on Sundays. Also, the business now has a fully stocked bar and serves mixed drinks as well as beer and wine.

The new hours are 11:30 a.m. - 10 p.m. Monday -Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sundays.

— From staff reports