A belated Happy New Year to all our readers. Times are not great in our industry, but we’re much better than those living in Haiti. With over 200,000 dead and many more injured, it’s hard to imagine how those in Haiti are coping with that kind of disaster. Even in our tough times, we can still afford to give a prayer or a donation to help these people in their crisis. The interesting dynamic with charity is that when you feel you can’t afford to give – but do – something good always comes of it.
It’s time for us to stop looking at our half empty glass and instead see it as half full. Attitude is a major component in pushing your business in a forward motion. If you remain positive, good ideas will come to you. Negative thoughts only lead to misery. Be smart and honest with yourself about the state of your business and ask yourself, “What small improvement can I make today that will either save me 10 minutes tomorrow or make my business inch forward in a positive direction?” It’s the baby steps that move you forward.
Congratulations to Professor Ian Baitz on being appointed the new acting chair of Ryerson’s Graphic Communication Management Program. He will remain in this post until the committee appoints a permanent chair.
It is with sorrow that we report the passing of Bob Thistle. Bob, the founder of Robert E. Thistle, was a true gentleman; he was always very kind and supportive towards me when I first started Graphic Arts Magazine. His son Steve, as many of you know, had taken over his father’s company several years ago and continues to develop and expand the original business. Bob and Steve were the first to develop the Thistle Dampening System for small presses. He will be greatly missed by his family and the industry. We would like to express our condolences to his entire family. May he rest in peace.
In other news, Avanti has donated a $185,000 MIS system to the Centre for Excellence in Print Media at NorQuest College located in Edmonton, Alberta. It shows a great spirit of giving back to the industry. Congratulations on your thoughtful donations Avanti.
So remember, the sky is not falling; the industry is just changing. With a little imagination and maybe even mutual cooperation with other printers in your area, you can arrive at a solution that is profitable for your business. If more companies worked together and stopped operating on the principle of “the lowest price wins,” all businesses would be stronger. Stop complaining and start looking for solutions. Stay positive and focused on success you’ll be amazed at the results.
