I had a very interesting December. I topped off the year by traveling to the Recreation Vehicle Industry Association’s annual trade show in Louisville, Ky. I also spent some time with Goshen businessman and scientist Jonathan Roth. Both experiences were educational.
    Many people in Goshen know Mr. Roth from his years spent as a science professor at Goshen College. He is now busy creating new products for the testing for microbes. His products are sold around the world.
    He is an example of the many talented and inventive people in Michiana who are quietly producing innovative products.
    The RV industry has been getting a lot of notice these days as manufacturers shed jobs. But down at the Louisville show everyone was positive and looking ahead to better days.
    The dozens of Michiana companies represented there were positioning themselves for recovery. New, lightweight RVs and accessories were getting a lot of notice. Also, traditional products, including beautifully appointed Class A motorhomes, have been improved. Many of those were on display in the Kentucky Expo Center.
    I would be remiss if I didn’t point out that with this issue we at Michiana Business Focus have completed our first year in business. We have learned a lot during this past year and I hope you have enjoyed reading about our local business people.
    Please drop me a line or send me an e-mail to let me know what you would like to read about in our second year. I would like to hear from you.
   
    — Roger Schneider, editor