Community and Civic Activity are Key to Growth

  I am really tired of politics because, to me, neither side has really drafted a workable plan to get the economy going in the direction it should.

  But let me ask you something, why are we waiting on politicians? Did politics ever jump start economic growth? At this stage, how much should politicians and politics play a role in the growth of the country?

Revelation: Only we, the community, are responsible for our own growth. 

  Sure, a lot of things could not happen without government funding. And sure most of us have brilliant ideas for company start-ups. However, it is truly up to the community and the individuals in that community to keep the economy going. It is up to us. As businesses, we should be leaning on each other. We should be more involved in the community in a way that reflects who we are as a business. 

Revelation: Low civic activity is not good for business. 

  Hrm, that's an interesting thought. Why? In Floyd County, VA, everyone banded together and developed an economic plan based on a central theme. Not just civic leaders and businesses, everyone. What's the big deal in that? With a set goal and plan in mind, they have grown enormously. Not as fast as they would like to but they are sticking with the plan because it has worked so far. Floyd County has become the weekend destination for a quick getaway. 

  In Salem, VA, we have the same people running the same show and very little growth and a lot of struggling and no plan of action for continued success and growth of the community. I might get in trouble for this. But, I even feel like I am a "nobody" in my own community. How do I get involved in this community? I don't know. I don't have kids, which might help. I have no idea how to get involved in the place I live in. If I don't know how, then how does anyone moving in know how to either? 

  Roanoke City is on a turnaround because they have taken time to develop a plan and the community is actively partaking in the activities. The two revelations above are the key, folks. Stop waiting on your politicians at the state and federal level. 

Business Lounge Opens in Roanoke

  A list came out today from Forbes listing Roanoke in the #74 spot as Best Places for Business and Career. Having lived here for only 9 years, I can see why this little corner of Virginia is very successful. 

  First, there has been an influx of what I call "new blood" into the region. Most of this new blood if from the Northeast region or Northern Midwest region. The South has been invaded by Yankee ingenuity! Don't worry, there are a lot of talented people in the region before the influx. Most of us were trying to escape the high cost of living in the North while finding a region that was ready for growth. Southwest Virginia is a fertile land of opportunity for entrepreneurs. BUT, you have to be flexible, innovative, and patient. The market is still a little rough around the edges. However, if you can find your niche, there is nothing to stop you from making it!

  One new, innovative idea is the Business Lounge that just opened in Roanoke. This is a meeting place for freelancers and entrepreneurs. It's a new nation-wide concept called co-working. Working out of the home can be productive but it limits your exposure to your most important business component, people! In this concept, entrepreneurs who don't have a need for permanent space but would like a more convenient and central meeting place, not only amongst other entrepreneurs, but with clients! It is armed with basic business needs for anyone who rents the space. Interested? Want to learn more? Visit their official website!