1.  SR Smoot Wins a big one: We congratulate the SR Smoot Construction Co. for being named the Construction Manager of the new Hollywood Casino in Columbus, OH.  This $400 million project will be owned by Penn National Gaming, Inc.  It is truly beautiful when two of our members work together in such a positive way.  The construction will create over 3,500 direct construction jobs and the completion will bring in 2,000 permanent jobs.

2.  Increase in Capital Access: The Small Business Jobs Act, increases 7(a) loan limits from $2 million to $5 million, 504 loans from $1.5 million to $5.5 million, micro loans from $35,000 to $50,000, and increases the 7(a) Express Loans from $300,000 to $1 million.  The legislation also creates a $30 billion Small Business Lending Fund to help eligible small banks make small business loans and provides $1.5 billion to start the State Small Business Access Credit initiative, which builds on successful state-run programs.  This is a game changer.  Please get the word out as the SBA does a paltry job of marketing out in the field.  NBCC chapters should fill that void.

3. Belize: The NBCC will be making a fact finding mission to the nation of Belize during May 2 – 6, 2011.  Any NBCC members interested in joining us should contact Chuck at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

4. Ghana on the Move: Ghana is posting a tremendous amount of contract opportunities as it plans to take its infrastructure and industrial capacity to new heights.  On our website is a catalogue of infrastructure projects budgeted for the near future.

5.  Ground Breaking and Legacy Seminar: Last call to register for our next Legacy Seminar in New Orleans, April 20, at the Sonesta Hotel on Bourbon St.  We will begin the day with a formal groundbreaking of our new regional office, hosted by Baker Ready Mix.  Contact Ryan at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to reserve a seat.

6. It Will be so Cool in Miami in July: Welcome reception starts Thursday July 21 and we continue until noon on July 23. Come make contacts, learn about social networking to grow your business, meet procurement officials and foreign dignitaries.  Early bird registration for members is $150 and the room rate at the 5 star Four Seasons is just $150 per night.