The economy, the stock market, unemployment … I got it, we all get it. I’m not going to spend any more time on it.

The economy, the stock market, unemployment … I got it, we all get it. I’m not going to spend any more time on it.

After watching the presidential inauguration, I have a brighter outlook on the times to come. No matter who you may have voted for, the time has come to “own it.” A new chief is in town, and we’ll all do much better by riding the wave of optimism that’s sure to follow this honeymoon stage.

Recently,Roofing Contractor and Architectural Roofing & Waterproofingjoined forces with Clear Seas Research to poll some of the most influential players in the industry to get a feel for their instincts on what 2009 will bring. We’re proud to present our first annual “State of the Industry” report, sponsored by GAF Materials Corporation. The February issue ofARWwill contain a summary of the survey results. For in-depth data, please visitwww.arwmag.com orwww.roofingcontractor.comin early February. We’ll post more of the survey results, as well as interviews with representatives from some of the leading manufacturers, distributors and industry associations, to coincide with the launch of our February issue. The findings are refreshingly optimistic, especially in this time of doomsday conversation.

In the coming months, it’s important to realize that we represent a necessary industry - one that meets a basic need of everyone: shelter. The business is out there to be had; you’ve just got to make sure that you are out there to get it. Let’s wish our new president luck and support him as he tries to rebuild America into what it once was. Additionally, lets do a little “building” of our own. Best of luck out there!