Press Room

CEO and Owner Rick Russell Named Business Person of the Year at Business Expo and Small Business Awards Dinner

11.16.2006

Two Jefferson County businesses were honored Thursday night demonstrating that the entrepreneurial spirit is alive and well in the Courier area.

Rick Russell, chief executive officer of Midwest Tube Mills, was named Business Person of the Year, and Andersons' Sales and Service was honored as the Family Business of the Year.

The awards were announced during the annual Business Expo and Small Business Awards dinner.

Both enterprises typify the American success story of individuals who took ideas from their infancy and nurtured them into thriving businesses.

Both companies were described as having humble beginnings. Perhaps that is why they've succeeded. Neither Russell nor members of the Anderson family have forgotten that there is no substitute for long hours, lots of sweat equity and a can't-quit-now attitude.

A business plan isn't worth the paper it's printed on unless the business owners are willing to make bold decisions and listen to their customers and advisers.

The award presentations capped off the Southeastern Indiana Small Business Development Center's Regional Business Expo, where companies showcased their businesses for the community.

Midwest Tube Mills and Andersons' Sales and Service are but two of those companies.

The awards remind us that every day there are men and women who are pursuing their dream. As we travel around town it's impressive to see how many have become successful.

We must support our existing small business owners and work to encourage others to follow their own dreams