Like so many people across the country, our thoughts were with Boston this week. It got us thinking about ways a community can help during an unexpected event — or before it. One thing many employees do at Professional Litho is participate in regular Red Cross blood drives. There happened to be one that slated for this week. And, it took on a little bit of extra significance knowing how key preparation is during events like the bombing in Boston. The Twitter and Facebook topics explored tax strategy, tax laws, unusual weather, and ebooks via #4Qs. Here they are:
April 15 was tax day! Done or not done? Anything you’d like to change for next year?
Here’s hoping you are done. This is an excellent moment to take note and make a file for those receipts or change up your spreadsheet or tracking system. If you simply want to up your game, here are some ways to be more savvy in 2013.
Are there any changes to tax laws that will affect your business?
This year was a big year for changes to the tax laws. So, any tax strategies will need to take them into account. Among them: Standard business mileage rates have changed and there are also some payroll tax changes.
How does unusual weather affect your business?
There’s been plenty of talk about the spring weather this year (I’m writing this while heavy snow falls outside the window and tornado sirens are being tested). In 1816, businesses large and small were affected by unusual weather — and it wasn’t just employee morale. That year became known as the year without summer. A powerful volcanic eruption happened in Indonesia, creating an aerosol cloud that some believe blocked the sun. In New York, June frost harmed the crops and in Quebec, livestock died in a June snowstorm. The book also notes food shortages, cost increases, and a US migration to the Midwest. Interestingly, JMW Turner painted his famous fiery sunsets and Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein that year.
Have you ever purchased an ebook?
If you haven’t read Frankenstein, you might try it in ebook form. Print definitely still has a place. But, more and more authors — particularly traditionally published and successful ones — are jumping on the ebook bandwagon to great success.
An invitation: You can let us know your viewpoint — here or on Twitter — Monday through Thursday, we pose questions ranging from lighter fare to industry-focused topics. Every Friday we look back at the week and dig a little deeper. If you are on Twitter, we are @ProLitho — please follow us, and join the discussion about this week’s #4Qs.