Phew. We made it through this year of turmoil and still a growing stock market! Everyone is hoping for a better 2010 and I am one of them as well. SO I know this is the time of year that people reminisce and think back over the year. There are MANY things to be thankful for and MANY things to look forward to.....despite this year probably being one of the hardest for our industry.
Of course...there are some highlights that I think I can remember just quickly off the top of my head although I have to unload the dishwasher and fold PILES of laundry while getting ready for tonight........
I witnessed the first African-American president sworn into office. You might not like him...and I'm ok with that. But, if you are person of color, the significance of this moment might be earth-moving, mind-shattering, and just amazing. I used to teach elementary age kids in low-income areas.....I cannot put into words what I felt as I was watching this inauguration on TV. Too much to handle.
I saw Chrysler go into bankruptcy and emerge in record time. I was concerned that we would be on the chopping block and that we wouldn't make it to the "New" Chrysler. MANY dealers would talk with Jay about what they would do or if they think their dealership would be closed and so on. Hours of conversations regarding "the list" occurred even though there was noting you could to avoid "the list." When EVERYTHING you and your extended family have is tied into a business and it could be closed down and NOTHING you can do can change that really makes you prioritize what is important to you REALLY quick.
Spokane Chrysler also found a new bank to call home!!!!!!! That might not sound like a big deal to you but for us, it is almost defying all odds! Well, that is because many people across the country cannot believe that a Chrysler ONLY dealership in a "small" city called Spokane can be healthy enough to find another bank for various functions. I'm very proud of everyone who was involved in getting this done for us. It helps us be more efficient and effective. This is going to pave the way to better rates, better prices, and so on. Phew!
Our business has survived 2009 with all of the turmoil that surrounded the economy....really, the global economy. Many financial "gurus" give their 2-cents on how the government is propping us up for another downfall, the stock market/wall street is growing then main street will too, etc. and really, I only take it all with a grain of salt. Because they are not living my life with my situation. Sure you can make generalizations but right now, I know what is true and I can't hedge my bets on what might or might not happen. I can be moderate in every direction except that we have over 40 families that rely on Spokane Chrysler and we cannot be timid about that. We have to go forward by selling and servicing cars at the most competitive rates and prices possible while still paying our employees. So we will be aggressive in doing that until the cows come home...no matter what is said in the media or at the water cooler. We have a bigger responsibility than just sitting around and getting scared to do nothing.
Also, I do hope that this last officer that died in just a couple of days ago will be the last for a long time. Our law enforcement community has been battered and bruised. My prayers go out to each one and their families.
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