Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/96778
Editor's Note 'Tis December Already – St. Nick Can't Believe It Either Swap economic trepidation for some Summit elation, I mean education. BY KIM PHELAN I probably say this every year, but I simply cannot believe that it's December already. Where did the year go? Actually, at this moment, it's early Thanksgiving morning as I dot the final "i's" on the following little poetic spoof I've created for your amusement. I've just glanced at the news on my computer and am quickly reminded how troubled and troubling our world is. Of course, it's always been that way, right? I'm a product of the '60s, and things weren't all that tame in that decade either. And while our industry has certainly had some spoon-fed, chubby years, you guys and girls in the equipment distribution business have always had to work pretty hard for your well-deserved profits. I have to say, I admire your pluck today, when so many forces seem to be working against the construction industry and the equipment responsible for our amazing built environment. But I realize there's so much to be thankful for as I reflect over the year we're closing. Maybe it's the holidays that stir up the "mush" for me, but it's refreshing to take a break from the disappointments and instead count 'Twas the month before Summit and all through the land Not a dealer was whining, no matter what brand – Entre-pre-neurs right down to their stockings Despite world events becoming so shocking! Politicians were tucked quite soundly we see In status quo friction back in DC, While visions of taxes that businessmen dread Danced wildly inside Mr. Obama's head. For only a night's dream could give such enjoyment Of policy sure to boost unemployment. Families nestl'd at home behold the dramas Of Petraeus explaining, and cease-fires with Hamas – (Yes, that rhyme was a stretch, but in our defense Haven't you heard of poetic license?) – While union officials kill off the last Twinkie And Congress scoots fiscally close to the brinky. Meanwhile, Sandy's winds have caused such a mess And Europe's economy is sunk, more or less. But the EPA's Lisa won't be deterred From battling shale fracking – and coal, be assured. the blessings. I've never enjoyed a job more than the one I have today, and I owe much of that contentment to all you folks. Now, I'll get out of the way and let you get to this industry version of the highly parodied "Night Before Christmas." Have a wonderful holiday season and I look forward to seeing you at Summit next month. Thanks for reading! KIM PHELAN (kphelan@aednet.org) is the executive editor of Construction Equipment Distribution and director of programs for AED. Yet what if the government's eyes saw the facts That highways and bridges need more than gas tax! If they drew in their large heads and perhaps got a clue They might see that water needs funding too. Employment's a problem, you know that it's true, With more Baby Boomers saying 'bye-bye, we're through.' And far fewer Gen Xers tending to quench The industry's thirst for a smart, high-tech wrench. For those who've been lucky enough to find hires They're in for a problem when cheeks burn like fires. For whenever it's plain that a doctor they're needing, Obamacare promises that everyone's bleeding. Recovery seems distant and markets are soft, Plus Tier-4 is scaring our customers off. There are no simple answers for your anxiety, But thank goodness at least you've got AED. It's good and it's healthy to come learn together. Soon sad spirits will feel light as a feather. Learn to be profitable, learn to keep wealth; Learn how to laugh in spite of yourself. Till we meet in Las Vegas my wish, till we're near: Happy Christmas to all and a Happy New Year! December 2012 | Construction Equipment Distribution | www.cedmag.com | 7