Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone affected by Hurricane Harvey.  The devastation in Houston and surrounding areas was truly alarming.       However, our fellow Houstonians shined with acts of incredible selflessness and kindness. I am proud of our city.

BEB was very fortunate as our compound remained dry, sustained no damage from the storm and remained open for business without interruption.  Also, 100% of our staff emerged from the storm safe and sound.

The Houston USPS was closed for only a few days and is now 100% operational.  Mail is flowing without delay and we’re in full swing with open enrollment, giving, and holiday season preparations. 

Our social media and digital division was extremely busy during the storm.  Many of our clients used those platforms to communicate with their customers regarding closings, temporary relocations, and notification of available services.  We hope you, your loved ones and your businesses fared well and know that we are here to assist in any way we can. 

In this issue of The Bureau, we review the latest happenings in Washington DC pertaining to the upcoming postal rate increase expected in January.  We also outline the controversy surrounding the proposed methodology change to the way nonprofit rates are determined. 

This summer, our Social Media seminar series completely sold out.  With demand so high, we decided to schedule another series for the Fall, starting October 24th.  These sessions will sell out again quickly, so if you are interested and haven’t already registered, do so fast. 

Our Marketing for Small Business classes are divided into three programs.  The Basics Series include Blogging, Social Media Platforms Overview,  Organic Search Engine Optimization, Direct Marketing, and Email blasts.  The Social    Media Series covers Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram for Business, and a new session dedicated to content.  The Digital Program offers LinkedIN, how to create an email blast and another session on event marketing within Constant Contact.  The final class covers how to understand Google Analytics.

Though our prescheduled series are conducted at our facility, many of our  clients have asked us to teach classes at their location.  We can modify an individual presentation or an entire series to address your needs.  One of our more popular traveling seminars is called Direct Mail Made Easy.  Several clients invite us to teach this class once or twice a year.  We have presented to sales and client service reps, graphic artists, and marketing coordinators.  Some highlights from the class include, what to look for when designing materials to mail, understanding different classes of mail, and a review of postage rates.  If you have an interest, call your representative and we will make it happen.   

We hope that you enjoy this edition of The Bureau, and if you have questions or need more information about anything herein, please don’t hesitate to contact us.  Thank your for your business and partnership.

Ron Royall, President

Business Extension Bureau