05/ 25/ 2006
"Your gorilla with a flashlight." That could be NFIB's tagline if you feel about the organization the way long-time NFIB member Pat Secrist does. Secrist says that joining NFIB offered him "a chance to have an 800-pound gorilla working on our side." One that, according to the Midland, Mich., owner of the Secrist Doll Company, continually shines a light on the things that government is doing that business owners need to know about but don't have time to uncover for themselves.
A Leadership Council and Area Action Council member, Secrist, his wife, Joanna, and 11 employees produce components for the doll-making industry—the heads, arms, legs and other parts needed to produce collectible and play dolls.
The biggest challenges he faces are all related to costs, including over-regulation, high taxation and government spending, as well as overseas competition. "When government makes it more expensive to operate a business, it makes us less competitive," Secrist says. "We could compete if they left us alone and let us do business."
NFIB helps, Secrist says, by alerting him to issues that need to be addressed, whether in Congress or his state Legislature. When NFIB sends an e-mail alert, Secrist takes action. Years of writing letters and making phone calls have put Secrist on a first-name basis with many of his elected officials.
In fact, after hearing Secrist's account of how legislation would affect small-business owners, state lawmakers have changed their votes on key legislation, says Charles Owens, NFIB/Michigan state director.
"I've been very successful in getting to know my lawmakers," Secrist says. "They listen when small-business owners in their districts speak out against legislation."
Interacting with lawmakers are just part of what Secrist finds satisfying about being an active NFIB member. He also appreciates the chance to discuss important issues with other business owners at Area Action Council and Leadership Council meetings.
"Owning your own business gives you a chance to do what you were designed to do: Stretch your wings and give it all you got," Secrist says. "Everybody's designed to do something. When you find out what that is, you have the potential for being the happiest person in the world. Small-business owners are exceptionally good at finding out that thing."
Secrist wouldn't give up the thrill of entrepreneurship for anything: "A bad day working for myself is better than any good day working for someone else."
Be Involved
Find out ways you can make your voice heard at www.NFIB.com/getinvolved.
