Small businesses hanging on

Odessa's business climate is taking some baby steps forward, especially with the imminent opening of the new meat processing facility at the industrial park and the grand plans of the new owners of the golf course. The biodiesel plant is still a big question mark.

Rumors always seem to circulate whenever something new happens. One rumor we would like to definitively dispel concerns Chiefs Bar & Grill. According to owners Mike and Sherri Frederick, they have NO plans to close the restaurant.

We are not sure how this rumor got started, but like most rumors it took on a life of its own and has been spreading through town. The Fredericks say they have been asked repeatedly whether they will be closing soon. No, they say, they are in it for the long haul.

Most of Odessa's smallest businesses continue to struggle, yet they hang on, hoping for a turnaround. Do your part and shop locally whenever possible.