This time of year we are reminded to be thankful for those things that we have. During tough economic times it can be very difficult to find things to be thankful for. Sure - business may be down, paying your bills may be harder than ever. Your prospects for your business may be bleak. We too have felt the “pinches” of a tight economy. We understand your pain, and while our customer base is probably larger and more diverse than yours, we too have had customers go out of business and leave us hanging for thousands of dollars.

However, all is not lost. There are bright spots in the economy and things just may be starting to turn around. We are not feeling in the auto market yet, but it has to start somewhere. But despite the economic pains that we are feeling there are many things that we need to be thankful for. For me personally, I am thankful to you, our customers. For sending us your business, no matter how much your needs have changed. I am also thankful to our suppliers, most of whom have worked hard to keep their inventory levels and service levels high. I am also thankful that I have a crew of dedicated employees, who, for the most part, do their jobs without much intervention.

On the personal side; I am thankful that I have a great wife and great kids. My daughter was very sick a couple of weeks ago. Spending those days in the hospital, and seeing the other families and the issues they deal with, I realized how lucky we are. And I am thankful for that. I am also thankful that I can provide a home and food, etc. for my family.

Some of these things may or may not apply to you, but I think you get the point: no matter how bad things seem, there are always bright spots that you can focus on. And we need to be thankful for these things.

Doug Jacobs

PS: On the giving topic...the first 250 customers to call in after reading this will get a free roll of 5/16” Silver Funklines Pinstripes. Just use the code word: “Doug Says Thanks”