If you have been following the many studies and surveys being conducted with regard to the business environment, you have a general concept that Michigan is in dire straits.  On the other hand, by following them closely enough, you’ll also have learned that surveys such as the Future Business Index underwritten by Accident Insurance Fund of America and the local FBI underwritten by the Business Travel Trust and McLaren will give you another story about a side of business that sometimes receives less scrutiny:  small business.

For instance, the most recent survey just completed in November 2008 shows that 73 percent of small businesses during the next six months will be staying the same size, or adding staff.  That is not the usual business picture you find when you look through the newspaper, watch TV, listen to the radio, or surf the Internet.  Small businesses comprise a side of our economy that is reasonably healthy during a time when a major focus has been placed on our ailing auto industry.  Yes, car production is down and new car sales are off—there is no doubt about the challenges that accompany that.

At the same time, there are portions of this industry that are thriving.  When people stop buying new cars, they don’t quit driving.  This means the cars they own are getting older as they drive them, requiring increased maintenance.  Though that’s tough on new car sales, it creates an increased opportunity for a thriving industry here in mid-Michigan that provides auto repair and maintenance, offering diagnostic, preventive and repair work to answer the increased need.  As you read this month’s issue, you’ll find businesses offering both capable and innovative solutions.  We have highlighted some leaders in our area who are ready to help keep you on the road, driving safely and efficiently.

And speaking of leaders, I want to take this opportunity to congratulate the winners from the recent Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce dinner: Rachekke Neal of Capitol Research Services, Inc., who was a recipient of the Group, who was named winner of the Community Service Award; MessageMakers, and its owner Terry Terry, honered with Outstanding Small Business Award; and Angelia McGarry, owner of Carolan & McGarry, CPA, who was presented ith the ATHENA PowerLink® Award.

Also congratulations to Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce president and CEO Tim, Denyse Ferguson, president and CEO of LEAP, and Greg Main, the newly appointed president and CEO of the Michigan Economic Development Corp.  These are hardworking leaders dedicated to the continued improvement of our Lansing-area community.

As always, best wishes for a prosperous month,

		Chris Holman Publisher

 

 

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