| Litzia certified by Microsoft
Litzia, LLC, a locally owned and operated business technology consulting firm, has achieved Microsoft's Small Business Specialist certification. To attain Small Business Specialist status, Litzia had to pass Microsoft's Small Business Sales and Marketing Skills assessment, designed to test the company's knowledge of the unique needs of the small-business market. In addition, at least one individual in the company had to pass a technical certification exam that measures the ability to design and implement solutions for small and medium- sized businesses using the Windows Server System. Established in 2005, Litzia delivers integrated information technology solutions. For more information on Litzia's services, call 714-0565 or visit www.litzia.com. .
Linux for business use
The recent fine levied on Microsoft by the European anti-trust authorities has reminded people just how dominant Microsoft is in the industry. We’re often being told to consider Linux and open-source applications as a viable alternative to what Microsoft and other Windows developers have to offer. But just what’s involved if you do decide to go down the Linux route for some or all of your small-business IT? Which Linux?
One of the first things to understand is that there’s no such thing as a standard implementation of Linux. There are lots, commonly referred to as distributions or distros, available from an equally large number of developers. Some are designed for use on desktop PCs and others for servers. Yet more can be used for both, so research is required.
One on One with Randy Mueller
You recently became director of business development at the Port of Ridgefield, which is a new position. Was the job created specifically for you, or were you hired into a newly created job? As part of my graduate education, where I am specializing in regional economic development, there is a requirement for a 400-hour graduate internship. I did my internship at the Port of Ridgefield, and after I completed it they asked me to stay on. We sat down together and determined the work that needed to be done. What does your job actually involve? The port is a special purpose government with one mission: economic development. As director of business development, I work on all of the various projects that the port has undertaken to further that mission. These projects include our Pioneer Street overpass connecting downtown Ridgefield with the waterfront, the planning for the redevelopment of that waterfront, and other economic development projects across the port district.
City moves to aid restaurants
KALAMAZOO -- Actions by the Kalamazoo City Commission will aid two restaurants planning to open on the city's downtown mall. Commissioners Monday approved a $40,000 small business revolving loan for the Sprout Restaurant, described as a ``modern, neighborhood boutique restaurant,'' and recommended a liquor license for Mangia Mangia, a casual Italian restaurant patterned after its Paw Paw flagship. Mangia Mangia will open at 209 S. Kalamazoo Mall, where it will be transformed by its owners from Bogie's Cafe. The 100-seat eatery is expected to employ 10 full-time workers and about 15 part-timers. A $100,000 investment is expected for the restaurant, which will feature hearth-baked pizza and pasta dishes similar to the fare offered at the owners' other location, La Cantina Ristorante Italiano, in Paw Paw.
|
