Tom,
Just a note of thanks for you continued desire to improve the  small retailer. We have seen a difficult year as our associates in  the South have seen such difficulty; how we respond to acts of  God; acts of man and general problems in our business will determine the potential for the next generation. 

I realize that I have failed to cast the vision for my grandchildren's future in my business. I'm second generation, and I have been more focused on what isn't working and not what is.  I'm sure this is common with many owners. However, what son or daughter would want to be a part of a business that dad comes home each night complaining about? 

I think it presents a mystery to them as to why we continue to do it. They are not party to the good sales, the great service by the majority of our vendors, the thank you cards from customer - the very food that moves us to remain engaged in doing what our fathers have done before us because there is a huge reward in doing what we do. I make a difference in peoples lives.

I say thanks because with out the monthly reminder of your newsletter I would not most likely be asking myself the harder questions about my business and where are we going to be in  the future. 

Ron 
Arrow Floor Covering