You know what I like most about women owned businesses? They are women who were either tired of trying to break through the glass ceiling, or decided they never wanted to contend with it, and now their lives—or at least their professional lives—are in their own hands. There is only success or failure, which is all contingent upon their own decisions or abilities. 

This issue is packed full of women I consider friends, those who have taken that leap into the risky unknown and fared well because they are capable people. Each has been awakened to the realization that their fate is in their own hands—which also attests to the fact that women aren’t bound by their inabilities and there is no measure to the heights to which they can soar.

I have to tell you about one of those moments in my life I will always remember and cherish. A good friend and true business pioneer, Virginia Hilbert, now deceased, who founded and owned Lansing Computer institute (now Professional Technical Development, PTD), started her business at a time when there were very few women owned technology companies.

It was a number of years ago that Virginia was being recognized at the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce’s annual dinner. Much to my shock, and now to my delight, she stood up to a room full of people and said that she had always hoped she could win an award like this, so she would have the opportunity to thank Chris Holman for all he has done for women owned businesses. (I did not make that up, it is a direct and accurate quote.)

I have always had a great deal of pride in successful women owned businesses. Many of my endeavors have allowed women to excel in their respective careers and I’m proud to say I’ve had a hand in some of their success.

The fall is always a busy time for us here at GLBM. Coming up on September 14 at Eagle Eye Golf Club from 11:30 to 1:30, is the 2010 Greater Lansing Business + Sports Luncheon, which will feature Gary Danielson, CBS college football analyst and former Detroit Lion, speaking on “Toughness Wins.”

The Greater Lansing Business Showcase will also be here before we know it, on October 28 at the Lansing Center. Booth space is already going fast, so call Jennifer Bain at 517-487-1714 to reserve your space today—it’s THE most important sales call you’ll make all year.

Have a prosperous month,

		Chris Holman Publisher