The business community is no stranger to change. Many industries have experienced explosive transition in recent years with changing government regulations, economic challenges, increased pressure to reduce costs, and rapid technological advances. Even the nation’s work force has changed.

By their very nature, Facebook (www.facebook.com) and similar social-networking sites are a way to share private matters with others. You share news of yourself and family, opinions, photos, links to other sites, and so on.

When most of us think of international businesses in Central New York, we think of Lockheed Martin, Welch Allyn, and Sensis. However, those less conspicuous are the many small- to medium-sized companies in Central New York that are also capable of marketing their products in foreign countries. These businesses are the main target of the president’s National Export Initiative (NEI).

In the beginning of the 20th century, Auburn was one of the major hubs for manufacturing in America. International Harvester was the world’s largest manufacturer of farm machinery — its expansive facilities stretched over 20 acres within the growing city.

It was a Friday and the first real snowfall of the season fell in upstate New York. The weather forecast of two inches of snow turned into six inches. By 1 p.m., my feet are wet and I can see the reason — a crack in my boots. At the end of my sales calls, it is time to look for new boots. We have a long winter here and wet feet put a real damper on my enthusiasm. Cold and tired, I entered the local Army and Navy store.