Following the success of the Cash for Clunkers program, the federal government recently announced the creation of a similar rebate program for consumers looking to purchase new energy-efficient appliances. The Better Business Bureau has some details about the program.

In a recent survey conducted by a big benefits management company (a management and human resource consulting firm), they asked 365 CEOs and sales management executives, "What are the three key factors that separate high performing sales professionals from moderate to low performing sales professionals?"

The National Insurance Crime Bureau and the National Equipment Register reported that more than 13,500 pieces of heavy equipment were stolen in 2008, and 43 percent of the thefts occurred in just five states.

On the move/Biz bits is a free public-service listing of the Augusta Chronicle highlighting achievements in the business community.

Tuesday: How to Write a Small Business Plan Workshop; 8 a.m. to noon, University of South Carolina Aiken, Penland Administration Building, Room 110, 471 University Parkway, Aiken; presented by the Aiken Small Business Development Center; assists companies with strategic planning, loan applications and cash flow management; registration required; $40; call (803) 641-3646 or e-mail SBDC@ usca.edu, www.usca.edu/sbdc.

Ribbon-cutting from the Columbia County and Augusta Metro Chambers of Commerce

WSI-SRS, the security company at Savannah River Site, gave $40,000 to the United Way of Aiken.

The Rotary Area Council, a coalition of clubs in the Augusta-North Augusta area (www.augustarotary.com), recognizes the following club member as Rotarian of the Week:

Listing of commercial building permits, liens satisfied, liens and major property transfers.

First Friday Wine Tasting at Wine World, Nov. 6