REIs show signs of economic recovery

Yes, Things are Getting Better Out TherePlease don’t confuse these seemingly unrelated pieces of information with ‘real’ economic data but they are positive signs none the less. I call them REIs….or Rich’s Economic Indicators. Look for some in your own network….they are out there.

My local newspaper is getting thicker. I was in a meeting with the editor the other night and he agreed that ad revenues were back up and the worst was behind them. He actually looked relaxed.

I spoke at the New England Supply Chain Conference and Exhibition (NESCON) this week and I was happy to learn that some of the long term unemployed had found jobs….good jobs. The conference was also quite well attended and I enjoyed chatting with 50 or so professionals about project management. A nice group!

I serve on the board of our regional Red Cross chapter and the last several fundraisers have been very successful. The crowds have been large and very upbeat. Donations have been getting stronger.

Chemical distribution company CEOs I recently interviewed were optimistic. So were their customers and suppliers.

Rush hour traffic is once again a mess. I’ve had to recalculate my travel times to various destinations. Traffic was very light last spring and summer…good for the drivers but a bellwether on the regional economy.

Finally, Bob the Guard is employed again and maybe in more than one job. I saw him at the local store and he was buying a pack of cigarettes and a half dozen energy drink shots. That may be the best barometer of all.