NFIB

Duane Hickerson has only been an NFIB member for two years, but in that time he has become very active in ensuring that the voice of small business is heard.

"I was first attracted to NFIB because of the active lobbying and communication efforts on issues effecting small business," said Hickerson.

Since joining NFIB Hickerson has met with many legislators to discuss the issues that are important to small businesses including Sens. Mike DeWine and George Voinovich regarding the death tax, minimum wage and health-care reform; and Congresswoman Deborah Pryce regarding health-care costs. He began becoming active during the 2004 elections by educating his employees on candidates' positions on small-business issues.

Hickerson started his business, Relay Gear, in 2001. The company provides branded apparel and merchandise to corporate America.

"We provide promotional product solutions to national organizations and corporations in professional and consumer markets," said Hickerson. (Relay Gear is even responsible for the sharp NFIB polos the NFIB staff occasionally wears). Hickerson employs 22 individuals and including his three partners in the business. 

Although Hickerson is still very concerned with health-care costs, he enjoys owning his own business because it allows him to create a comfortable work environment for himself with people with whom he enjoys working and "to create something special."