Greetings!

The recent news has been very interesting for business people selling in the federal market. Parity was restored for all small businesses, women finally have a real 5% procurement rule, simplified acquisition thresholds increased, subcontracting requirements changed, and a top federal contractor (GTSI) was suspended from all federal contracting because of allegedly using small businesses as a pass-through vehicle.

Heads rolled (figuratively of course) at GTSI with the CEO/President and  senior VP/general counsel resigning.

I will go on record to say that it is about time. Ethical people everywhere should be  talking about this and then walking the talk: not playing the pass-through game. Refusing to make the fast buck that tarnishes everyone involved and mocks the hard work by legitimate small businesses.

This country has suffered from the "make money at all cost" attitude long enough. You have the power in your pen, pocket, wallet and purse. Refuse to work with people who promise the fast buck and offer nothing of value in return. Refuse to team with them. Refuse to subcontract to them. Refuse to buy their products, use their services, or refer them to others.

Granted, the SBA has now lifted the ban on GTSI, and for the employees, that is good thing because maybe they can keep their jobs. Maybe the big shots being gone will make the difference. I hope so.

In the meantime, I would say that every one of those contracts under investigation should, right now, be recompeted with only legitimate small businesses eligible as was originally intended. That is the fair thing to do. It is the right thing to do.

Stand up, be heard, be counted. And by the way, vote on Nov 2. Vote red, blue or tea, just get out and vote. It is your duty, along with your right.

As always, here's to your success!