October 03, 2008 // Franchising.com // Waco, Texas – Aire Serv owners and corporate executives lobbied on Capitol Hill for small business owners during the International Franchise Association's 9th Annual Franchise Appreciation Day on Sept. 16.
"Franchise Appreciation Day was an excellent way to bring small business concerns straight to our lawmakers," said Dave Samuel, owner of the Aire Serv of SW Missouri franchise. "Franchising is responsible for 21 million jobs and $2.3 trillion of private-sector economic output. We have a great impact on the economy, so it was great to be able to have our voices heard."
Along with nearly 500 other business owners and franchising executives, including 12 Aire Serv franchise owners; Doyle James, president of Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.; and Chris Elmore, vice president of operations for Aire Serv Heating & Air Conditioning, Inc.; met with the staff of the congressmen and senators from their respective states, discussing issues that impact small businesses such as small-business health plans, immigration reform, business activity taxes and wages.
"It was an honor to get to represent franchising and the impact it has on our economy," said James. "The IFA did a great job in facilitating meetings with our representatives, which allowed us to provide a real face to small businesses nationwide."
The IFA also recognized Aire Serv franchise owners David and Kristine Samuel with Franchisee of the Year Award for their outstanding performance and the contributions they have made to enhance the growth and development of franchising. As part of Franchise Appreciation Day, Aire Serv representatives also listened to guest speakers Paul Begala, political pundit, as well as senior strategist for the Clinton-Gore Presidential Campaign in 1992; Rep. Michael J. Rogers (R-MI); and Rep. Melissa L. Bean (D-IL).
About Aire Serv®:
Established in 1992, Aire Serv is a global franchise organization providing installation, maintenance and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning and indoor air quality systems. Recognized by Entrepreneur magazine among its "Franchise 500," Aire Serv franchisees provide these services to both residential and commercial customers at more than 150 locations in the United States and Canada. Aire Serv is a subsidiary of The Dwyer Group, Inc. For further information or to find the location nearest you, visit www.aireserv.com.
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