46th Memphis In May: The Shed BBQ Wins Grand Championship

US Business News Staff on May 24, 2024

By: Lennard James

The 46th annual Memphis in May World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest concluded with a smoky celebration of culinary excellence at Liberty Park. Despite the venue changing from its traditional spot on the Mighty Mississippi River to Tiger Lane, the event did not disappoint, bringing together barbecue enthusiasts from across the nation for a weekend of intense competition and mouth-watering flavors.

46th Memphis In May The Shed BBQ Wins Grand Championship

Photo Courtesy: Mac Weaver

The highlight of the event was the announcement of The Shed BBQ as the Grand Champion of 2024. Led by team captain Brad Orrison, The Shed BBQ not only clinched the prestigious Grand Champion title but also secured the top spot in the Whole Hog division. This marks Orrison’s third Grand Champion win and his fourth victory in the Whole Hog category. His team’s impressive track record also includes multiple wins in ancillary competitions such as poultry, beef, and booth design. The Shed BBQ previously took home the Grand Champion title in 2015 and 2018.

The contest, under the leadership of newly appointed CEO Mac Weaver, ran seamlessly, transforming Tiger Lane into a vibrant hub of barbecue culture. From the parking lot, the tantalizing aroma of smoked meats wafted through the air, guiding attendees to the heart of the festivities. Teams from across the country meticulously prepared their entries, vying for top honors in various categories, while visitors eagerly roamed the grounds, sampling the finest barbecue offerings.

The shift to Tiger Lane proved to be a successful adaptation, maintaining the high standards and festive atmosphere that Memphis in May is known for. Attendees enjoyed the same level of excitement and culinary prowess, with the new location adding a fresh dimension to the storied event.

As always, the Memphis in May BBQ Contest celebrated not just competition but camaraderie, community, and the shared love of barbecue. With The Shed BBQ’s latest triumph, the event continues to uphold its reputation as the pinnacle of barbecue contests, honoring both tradition and innovation in the world of smoked meats.

The atmosphere was electric, filled with the sounds of laughter, music, and the sizzling of meat. Families and friends gathered to cheer on their favorite teams, creating a sense of unity and celebration. Workshops and demonstrations added an educational element, allowing attendees to learn about different barbecue styles and tips from the masters themselves.

The Shed BBQ’s victory was a testament to their dedication and expertise, highlighting the competitive yet supportive spirit of the event. Their innovative approach, while respecting traditional methods, captivated the judges and secured their win. This blend of old and new is what makes the Memphis in May BBQ Contest so special.

Overall, the event was a reminder of the rich culture and history of barbecue, bringing people together in a celebration of food and fellowship. As the smoke cleared and the winners were crowned, everyone left with full hearts and bellies, already looking forward to next year’s contest. The Memphis in May BBQ Contest continues to be a cherished tradition, a place where passion for barbecue is shared and celebrated by all.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Build Reliable Construction Teams with ROI Employment

US Business News Staff on May 24, 2024

In the dynamic landscape of the construction and civil engineering industries, finding and retaining skilled workers presents a formidable challenge for business owners. The complexity of projects, coupled with a competitive job market, necessitates a strategic approach to recruitment. Enter ROI Employment Solutions, a beacon of hope for construction companies navigating the turbulent waters of hiring. Founded by industry veteran Roi Kish, this Tampa Bay area firm specializes in transforming recruitment challenges into opportunities for growth and stability.

A Tailored Approach to Hiring

At the heart of ROI Employment Solutions is a commitment to understanding the unique needs of the construction and civil engineering sectors. With Roi Kish’s extensive experience, having retired from a leading VP role in a civil engineering company, the firm is well-equipped to address the nuanced demands of these industries. The company’s tailored strategies are not just about filling vacancies but ensuring a harmonious match between employers and candidates. This meticulous approach ensures that businesses connect with qualified individuals who not only meet their specific requirements but are also aligned with their long-term goals.

Streamlining the Hiring Process

One of the critical services offered by ROI Employment Solutions is the streamlining of the hiring process. The construction industry is fast-paced, and delays in staffing can lead to significant project setbacks. By providing comprehensive recruitment services, the firm helps companies navigate the complexities of hiring, from sourcing candidates to finalizing employment contracts. This efficiency not only saves time but also reduces the financial burdens associated with prolonged recruitment cycles.

Reducing Turnover Rates

High turnover rates are a persistent issue in the construction industry, often attributed to mismatches between job expectations and reality. ROI Employment Solutions addresses this challenge head-on by ensuring clarity and compatibility from the outset. Their strategies are designed to foster long-term employment relationships, reducing the need for frequent hiring and thereby decreasing turnover rates. This stability is invaluable for construction companies looking to build a reliable, skilled workforce capable of tackling complex projects.

Building a Reliable Workforce

The ultimate goal of ROI Employment Solutions is to help construction and civil engineering companies build a workforce that is not just skilled but also committed and reliable. Trust is a critical component of this equation. Businesses trust the firm to understand their needs and deliver results, while candidates trust them to connect them with opportunities that are genuinely suited to their skills and career aspirations. This trust, cultivated over 12 years of dedicated service, is what sets ROI Employment Solutions apart in the recruitment landscape.

A Partner in Growth

For construction business owners, the challenges of recruitment are manifold, but they are not insurmountable. With the expertise and support of ROI Employment Solutions, companies can look forward to a more streamlined hiring process, reduced turnover rates, and, most importantly, a workforce that drives success. Roi Kish and his team stand ready to partner with businesses in the construction and civil engineering sectors, helping them overcome staffing frustrations and pave the way for sustainable growth.

In the ever-evolving world of construction, having a partner like ROI Employment Solutions can make all the difference. Trust them to alleviate your staffing challenges and build the skilled, reliable workforce your business deserves.

Published by: Holy Minoza

Financial Expert Dean Barta Shares His Tips for Main Street

US Business News Staff on May 24, 2024

By: Havry Jenkins

In small towns across America, the charm of Main Street is often overshadowed by its businesses’ financial challenges. From the mom-and-pop shops to the local diners, small businesses are feeling the squeeze of rising costs for goods and labor. These challenges aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; they represent real threats to business owners’ livelihoods and the communities they serve. In this era of economic uncertainty, staying afloat requires more than grit and determination—it demands smart, strategic financial planning.

Enter Dean Barta, a seasoned financial expert deeply committed to revitalizing small businesses. With over thirty years of experience navigating complex financial landscapes, Barta has honed his skills in addressing the challenges of these small-town enterprises. His unique insights and practical advice have helped numerous businesses turn their financial woes into opportunities for growth and stability.

Amidst the scenic backdrop of Helena, Montana, the challenges Main Street businesses face are as palpable as they are pervasive across small towns throughout America. From quaint boutiques to family-owned cafes, these enterprises grapple with the escalating costs of goods and labor, threatening the charm and sustainability of local economies.

Dean Barta, whose business is deeply rooted in Helena, understands these challenges firsthand. With over thirty years of financial expertise, Barta has become a cornerstone for small business advice. He is particularly adept at tailoring his strategies to meet the needs of small-town enterprises. His insight is not just theoretical; it’s built on the real-world application of financial principles that address the specific issues facing businesses like those on the historic streets of Helena and beyond.

State of Small Businesses in Small Towns

The state of small businesses in America’s small towns is a mosaic of entrepreneurial spirit marred by economic stress. Many of these businesses have been the backbone of their communities for generations, yet they now grapple with an increasingly competitive landscape. Online retailers and big box stores lure customers with lower prices, while local businesses need help with the high costs of maintaining physical storefronts. Moreover, the ripple effects of global economic trends have exacerbated the cost of supplies and labor, squeezing margins further.

The local economies feel the pinch as these businesses fight to keep their doors open. When small businesses thrive, they create jobs, foster community spirit, and keep local economies vibrant. The current financial strain threatens this vitality, making the survival of these businesses more than a personal success story—it’s a community imperative.

Dean Barta’s Financial Insights and Solutions

Dean Barta believes mastering cash flow management and strategic financial planning is the key to overcoming these challenges. His approach is tailored to the unique needs of small-town businesses, focusing on several core areas:

Adopting Technology

Barta encourages businesses to embrace bookkeeping and inventory management software. These tools can streamline operations, reduce errors, and provide real-time financial data, allowing owners to make informed decisions swiftly.

Understanding Cash Flow

It’s not just about knowing what’s coming in and going out but also about understanding the timing and dynamics of cash movements. Barta teaches business owners to forecast their cash flow, identify potential shortfalls, and adjust operations accordingly.

Smart Inventory Management

Managing inventory is one of the most significant challenges for retail businesses. Overstocking ties up capital, while understocking leads to missed sales opportunities. Barta advises implementing just-in-time (JIT) inventory practices, which help reduce costs and increase efficiency.

Diversifying Revenue Streams

To buffer against economic downturns, Barta suggests exploring additional revenue streams. This could mean offering new products or services, hosting events, or leveraging e-commerce to reach a broader market.

Accessing Funding

Many small businesses need help accessing capital to grow or sustain operations. Barta assists businesses in navigating the complex landscape of loans, grants, and investor funding, helping them find the most suitable options for their needs.

Cost Control

In an era of rising expenses, controlling costs becomes paramount. Barta works with businesses to identify areas where they can cut costs without compromising quality or customer satisfaction.

Community Engagement

Finally, Barta emphasizes the importance of community engagement. By fostering solid relationships within the community, businesses can enhance customer loyalty, which is crucial for survival in small towns.

Dean Barta’s mission goes beyond mere consultancy; it’s about empowering small businesses to survive and thrive in today’s challenging economic climate. His comprehensive strategies offer hope for small-town companies, providing them with the tools and knowledge to navigate financial complexities. As these businesses implement Barta’s tips, they secure their future and contribute to Main Street’s revitalization, ensuring it remains a vibrant part of American life.

By embracing these strategies, small businesses can transform their financial stress into a strategic advantage, potentially securing their place at the heart of their communities for generations to come.

Published by: Khy Talara

The Remarkable Journey of Jose Berlanga A Testament to Resilience and Triumph

US Business News Staff on May 24, 2024

Jose Berlanga’s life is a compelling saga of overcoming adversity, marked by his rise from humble beginnings to becoming a multimillionaire four times over (the last time stuck). Jose’s journey is a profound testament to the human spirit’s capacity for resilience. Everyone needs resilience in this life. Everyone.

From surviving a severe childhood accident in Mexico City to facing educational challenges, Jose’s story is not just about financial success. It’s about relentless perseverance across various industries, from devastating losses to astonishing comebacks and everything in between.

Jose’s early life was marked by significant hurdles. A severe childhood accident in Mexico City left him with injuries that would have deterred many. However, Jose’s indomitable spirit and determination helped him overcome these early life challenges, setting the stage for his future success.

He then ventured into the world of entrepreneurship with a vision and a tenacity that few possess. His journey was not linear; it was filled with both peaks and valleys. He experienced the euphoria of successful ventures and the despair of failed ones. Yet, each failure was a lesson, and each success a testament to his unyielding perseverance.

Economic downturns have been a significant challenge for many entrepreneurs, and Jose was no exception. His experiences have taught him valuable lessons that he now shares with others. His new book, The Business of Home Building: How to Start and Operate a Residential Construction Company, provides invaluable lessons not just for aspiring home builders but for anyone looking to understand the intricacies of developing and building beautiful homes, including entrepreneurs, realtors, agents, brokers, new builders, investors, and anyone wanting to build their own home, or is considering hiring someone to build their home.

His book is based on real-world experience and includes these valuable nuggets:

Establish a company with detailed operational procedures and a comprehensive plan for success.

Recruit top talent for your team, including real estate professionals and service providers.

Identify land deals and evaluate their investment potential.

Perform thorough due diligence on civil engineering, structural engineering, permits, legal documents, contracts, and more.

Develop and manage essential budgets for every aspect of your project.

Secure financing and raise equity capital.

Of course, you have to determine if home building is for you but some of the biggest pluses include growing your company as much or as little as you want, running your life and your schedule as you see fit, continual learning, the barrier to entry is relatively small, and you don’t need a college degree.

Berlanga is the co-founder of Tricon Homes, an industry leader with yearly revenues of $100 million. As CEO, he has structured deals, invested, and negotiated land acquisitions and sales transactions in excess of a billion dollars while managing the day-to-day operations and building close to 2,000 homes to date.

A graduate from the University of St. Thomas with multiple degrees in Business Administration, Economics, and Philosophy, Jose’s discipline and methodical approach allow him to create customized strategies to maximize the potential of each project. His passion for business and life has led him to inspire and motivate others by being an example and a mentor who consistently delivers results through a strong work ethic.

Jose Berlanga’s life story is more than just a narrative of financial success. It is a testament to the power of resilience, the importance of perseverance, and the incredible capacity of the human spirit to triumph over adversity. Everyone needs resilience in this life, and Jose Berlanga’s journey is a shining example of just that.

Published by: Khy Talara

Leveraging Remote Work to Drive Business Profitability

US Business News Staff on May 24, 2024

In the wake of the global pandemic, businesses worldwide navigated unprecedented challenges, redefining traditional work structures to embrace remote environments. As we enter the fourth year of this transformative era, the dynamics of work across borders offer more than operational convenience. They significantly boost profitability.

With over 6 years of expertise in remote work solutions, RemoteMore emerged as a leader in the international recruiting industry. Their solution unveils a roadmap for organizations to capitalize on the benefits of distributed teams, redefining the bottom line in the process. This article explores the cost-saving advantages of leveraging remote work and how RemoteMore is championing international developer recruiting.

Remote Work to Drive Business Profitability

Photo: Unsplash.com

Unlocking Profitability: The Remote Work Advantage

As the global workforce embraces remote work, companies stand to gain a competitive edge by leveraging the following key advantages:

Access to a Diverse Talent Pool

Remote hiring transcends geographical barriers, granting access to a diverse talent pool without costly relocations. Companies that embrace hiring global talent have a significantly wider talent pool to choose from, enabling them to find for their needs while optimizing hiring processes and maximizing outreach.

Reduced Overhead Expenses

Embracing remote work slashes overhead costs, including real estate, utilities, and office maintenance. Many case studies demonstrate how remote policies can yield substantial savings, directly impacting the bottom line.

A study by Global Workplace Analytics found that employers can save over $11,000 annually for each employee who works remotely half of the time.
IBM has reported an estimated $50 million in savings annually by reducing its office space by 78 million square feet and implementing flexible work arrangements.

Enhanced Productivity

Remote work fosters a conducive environment for productivity, with studies indicating a significant uptick in employee performance outside traditional office spaces. Statistics show that remote workers are 35% to 40% more productive compared to their office counterparts. The flexibility and reduced distractions of remote work contribute to increased productivity.

Streamlined Hiring Processes

Remote hiring accelerates recruitment timelines, enabling companies to quickly onboard talent. By eliminating the need for in-person interviews and reducing paperwork, the process becomes more efficient and less time-consuming. The RemoteMore platform boasts response rates well above industry averages and consistently sources qualified candidates, significantly minimizing the time spent on talent searches.

Tax Benefits and Cost Savings

Companies that recruit global talent can leverage a range of tax benefits, further augmenting profitability. By hiring employees internationally, businesses can take advantage of various tax incentives, such as:

Home Office Deductions: Companies can reimburse remote employees for home office expenses, which can be tax-deductible. This includes costs related to internet, utilities, and office supplies, reducing the taxable income for both the employer and the employee.
State Tax Incentives: Some states in the US offer tax credits or incentives for businesses that employ remote workers, encouraging job creation and economic growth in less populated or economically disadvantaged areas.
Reduced Payroll Taxes: In certain jurisdictions, hiring remote workers from areas with lower tax rates can reduce the overall payroll tax burden for the company, leading to significant savings.
Research and Development (R&D) Credits: Companies investing in remote work technology and infrastructure can qualify for R&D tax credits, which can offset the costs of innovation and improvement in remote work capabilities.
Business Expense Deductions: Travel expenses for occasional in-person meetings, remote work software, and other related costs can often be deducted as business expenses, reducing the overall tax liability.

RemoteMore offers expert guidance in navigating these legal and payroll complexities, ensuring seamless compliance and maximizing savings. By understanding and utilizing these tax benefits, companies can not only cut costs but also enhance their profitability and financial health.

Enhanced Retention Rates

The flexible working hours and the ability to work from anywhere significantly contribute to a more supportive work-life balance, making remote work an ideal environment for employee retention. This flexibility allows employees to better manage personal responsibilities and reduce commuting stress, leading to higher job satisfaction. As a result, businesses experience lower turnover rates, which mitigates the substantial costs associated with recruiting, hiring, and training highly skilled employees.

Distributed teams align with the evolving preferences of the modern workforce, particularly among Millennials and Gen Z, who prioritize flexibility and work-life balance. By offering remote work options, companies can attract and retain talent who might otherwise seek opportunities elsewhere.

The benefits of enhanced retention rates extend beyond cost savings. High retention fosters a stable and experienced workforce, which improves productivity and institutional knowledge. It also enhances team cohesion and morale, as employees who feel valued and supported are more likely to be engaged and committed to their work.

Photo: Unsplash.com

Embracing the Future of Work

In summary, the shift towards distributed teams represents more than a response to global crises – it’s a strategic imperative for businesses seeking to thrive in the post Covid economy. As work across borders becomes the “new normal,” RemoteMore advocates for a proactive approach to redefining organizational structures and cultivating agile, remote-ready work cultures. By prioritizing employee satisfaction and operational efficiency, businesses can unlock unparalleled profitability in the international work landscape.

Furthermore, beyond the tangible financial gains, work across borders fosters a culture of inclusivity and flexibility, attracting talent and fostering innovation.

Published by: Nelly Chavez