MAC is Looking for a Few Good People Like You!!

It is no secret we are all doing more with less. We are working harder than we have worked in recent years, and we seem to always be behind! I know I am and I am sure you all are feeling the same pressures.

I bet the last thing on your mind is volunteering to another group or Board that will take up even more of your precious free time, but we need people like you to help steer MAC in the right direction.

When I joined the Board, I had the same reservations you all probably do: “I am too busy, I don’t have much to offer, I can’t help, I don’t know enough to be of service”, and the list goes on.

Sound like your first thoughts? I am here to tell you, YOU are exactly what we need, and trust me, if you do volunteer, not only will you be a big help, but you will also benefit greatly from the experience. I know I did. Being on the MAC Board played a significant role in building my cleaners and making it successful.

I have met incredible people from all areas of the MAC Region -- and throughout the country. We have become friends, colleagues, and mentors to one another. When I have questions or concerns, I have a whole network of people I feel comfortable reaching out to.

Through my work with MAC I have first-hand knowledge of all the programs and services DLI and MAC offer. Many members struggle to understand how to use the services and the ways the programs can benefit their own operations. Through getting to know the incredible staff at MAC and DLI I have even more tools available to me.
For example, whenever I am looking for a new piece of equipment or making a new investment, I have been able to explore all the options and have gotten close personal feedback on the pros and cons of each. Without my Board experience, I am not sure I would have the same level of comfort in reaching out to my peers.

MAC is a strong Association and we are well positioned to help the industry and our members. We want YOU to be a part of that. We need YOUR input into ways you need help and developing programs you feel would be beneficial. Contact Peter Blake at the MAC Office if you want to learn more.

COVID-19 Resources

Comments Open on Paycheck Prevention Program (PPP)

Urgent Response Needed:
The Window on PPP Forgiveness Rules is closing fast.

We just learned that the Small Business Administration (SBA) is accepting comments on the Payroll Protection Program (PPP) for a limited time. Please let them know your concerns with the onerous forgiveness provisions of the program. Here are sample draft comments you can use.

To file your comments go to https://www.regulations.gov/comment?D=SBA-2020-0015-0001. If needed, in the search bar enter SBA-2020-0015 and place your comments in the appropriate section.

After you have submitted your comments, send a letter to your Senators and Congressmen letting them know your concerns. Find contact information for your elected officials here .

The time to act is now - Don't delay. This may be our only opportunity to effect change in the PPP forgiveness guidelines!

MAC COVID-19 Resources

Please note these resources are sent to us by reliable sources, but we are not responsible for the accuracy of the information contained. We provide these resources as general information, and to help our members navigate the complex landscape of doing business today. A special thank you to MD Delegate Mike McKay (and MAC President) for his viligence in protecting and informing our industry!

A preview of the CARES Act Resources for Workers and Families -- From Cornerstone

Maryland COVID-19 Response: Helpful Links -- From Delegate Mike McKay

SEAY Management HR DOL Issues with COVID-19 Regulations -- March 25th Update

SEAY Management Alert: Families First Coronavirus Response Act. Update on Sick Leave, Family and Medical Leave, a summary of employee benefits, tax credits for Employers, Unemployment Benefits.

DLI Facebook Group (Join Here) -- NEFA, SEFA, MAC and CCA started a Facebook Group to provide a forum for members to share questions, concerns, and experiences as we all try to adapt to the new reality in face of the pandemic. Due to the success of the Group -- and the need for every member to get as much information as possible -- we have expanded it to a DLI Facebook Group. This is a MEMBERS ONLY forum.

Your membership at work!

For more information on any of these service or programs contact Peter Blake (603-635-0322 or peter@macassociation.org

Meet Your Executive Director

I am very excited to be working with the MidAtlantic Association of Cleaners! I have been involved with the North East Fabricare Association for over 25 years, and I am excited to bring some of that experience and knowledge to other parts of the East. We are currently reviewing our programs and services to see what we can improve, strengthen and add. I have been a featured speaker on marketing, social media, customer service and OSHA training.

All members are encouraged to call or contact me at anytime. I want to hear from you! If there are ways we can better serve you, or things you thing the association needs to be involved in, let us know: (800-235-8360) or e-mail me at peteblke@aol.com.

Sincerely,
Peter Blake,
Executive Director, MAC