2006

What a whirlwind of events took place in 2006! It was like no other that I have ever seen.

We purchased a shop in Florida and have very much enjoyed the economic climate in Florida. It is really quite wonderful down there. Business abounds.

Michigan's economy continues to falter and get even worse with no hope of revival.

The exodus continues out of Michigan and the voters opted for status quo. Somehow hoping that more tax money invested into education will somehow bring the state around.

Why is it that people simply can't see the obvious, but will continue to follow blindly those that speak about things they really don't understand.

If there are no jobs in the state, certainly education won't bring them. People will continue to do what they are doing currently. Get a free ride on their education through government funded programs and then leave for a warmer, more job friendly climate.

It is that simple. It really is.

History proves it. Today's economy in Michigan proves it.

The state keeps making it more and more difficult to practice small business, and then successfully continues to convince the masses that it is the business owner who is the problem. Not the government.

More taxes mean less money in the hands of the consumer from the top down. It is so elementary and is being shown for what it is today...yet the voters continue to vote those in they "feel" are going to get them work.

It's simple. Create more entitlement programs, give to more and more people, and heck all will be well.

That is until the entitlement programs don't have anywhere to draw the money from. For you see, if the businesses are gone, and they are indeed leaving, the money source for the entitlement program goes with it.

One by one, systematically they close. Hell, around our shop, I am amazed at how many businesses continue to close or go up for sale. It is never ending.

So we too are forced to move ahead with our lives to ensure a better future for our children.

Over this year, I have learned many other things as well.

I have learned what a blessing my children are.

I have learned how to be a better husband.

I have learned how valuable my wife is...and what a treasure she is. I thought I really knew...but I truly had no clue.

I love you Sonja Lynn. I want the world to know that you are the most beautiful woman I have ever met, known, and ever will know.

This year is going to be great for our company as we continue to press forward with our ventures. We are very excited about our business opportunity in Florida.

We wish you well and hope you are finding success in whatever you are doing.