W
When the Extol Magazine Team opted to make
this edition our third annual Business Issue, we
spent hours in a meeting debating what that
means today.
For some of us, the word “business” conjured
up images of professionals in classic attire working
for corporations and companies in cubicles and
windowless offices still utilizing faxes and copy
machines and refraining from responding to
people outside of the 8-5 working hours. That
model still exists and can be beneficial. But, all
of us agreed while the old stereotype of what
constitutes a business and a business professional
remains true in some aspects and should be
acknowledged, it’s time to also extol those who
are working in ways that usher in the changing
times ahead.
According to the U.S. Small Business
Administration (sba.gov), the overwhelming
majority of businesses are defined as small with a
range from 1 to 499 people. Here, in our Southern
Indiana community, we see the value of said
“small” shops, firms, restaurants and entities
LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
as well as the importance of frequenting their
businesses. We also appreciate the connectedness
such businesses offer that big box chains can’t
or simply don’t.
For example, my husband and I recently
purchased bunk beds for our soon-to-be 4-year-old
daughter from Schmitt’s Furniture. In addition to
receiving a follow-up phone call about delivery,
we also enjoyed — and I mean that — a post office
mailed letter signed by owner Louie Schmitt
thanking us for our purchase.
A week before writing this, I shopped at Ben
Franklin Crafts in New Albany for frames and fall
decorations and was greeted by employees who
also aided me on my search and welcomed me
to return instead of treating me as an annoyance.
At Cricket’s Cafe in Sellersburg, where the Extol
Team recently met, the cashier took the time to
explain the day’s special and help us find a quiet
corner. We were so grateful for the kindness.
Before heading home, I stopped at Preferred
Meats, where the helpful staff assisted me in
selecting the best meats — and more — for an
upcoming family gathering. At other big box
locales, this wouldn’t and hasn’t happened.
I could go on and on exalting – extolling – the
excellence of small businesses located in our midst.
Instead, I’ll let this issue speak for itself as we
celebrate businesses, especially those connecting
with and in our community in this issue.
As always, thank you for taking the time to pick
up Extol. This small business – our magazine – is
heading into its fifth year of existence, and we
couldn’t do that without you and your support.
Truly,
Angie Fenton
Editor in Chief
[email protected]
EXTOL : THE BUSINESS ISSUE 2019
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