From the Publisher - There is a saying about family-owned businesses: The first generation builds a business, the second runs it and the third ruins it.

In this month’s cover story, “Business in the fast lane,” page 16, members of Modern Metals’ editorial advisory board discussed challenges they face, including the need to attract a multigenerational, diverse, skilled workforce to the manufacturing industry.

Before smartphones, it wasn’t easy to buy movie tickets on the way to the theater, check maps while walking in circles around an unfamiliar block or post to Twitter or Facebook from the train. 

Sara Blakely is the youngest self-made female billionaire in the world.

Time travel is possible. A scent, a song, a meal at a restaurant can dredge up happy and sad memories of days gone by.

Most consumers are familiar with a sleek aluminum enclosure for their electronics.

In mid-September, Modern Metals’ staff attended the International Manufacturing Technology Show, held at McCormick Place in Chicago.

 As I’ve noted in previous editorials, I grew up in North Carolina. In the fall, trees in the Tar Heel State turn glorious reds, oranges and yellows.

As a small business owner, I take great exception to President Obama’s recent public remark: “If you’ve got a business—you didn’t build it. Somebody else made that happen.”

The economy continues its uncertain trend into the summer months, following a first quarter that held a fair amount of pent-up optimism.