02/13/2006
We talked recently with Cindy Golding of Sweet Maple Farms and CNJ Investment Co. about small-business ownership, activism with NFIB and the family business. This is what we learned...
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The small-business employees of Sweet Maple Farms prepare for a day in the fields. |
Give us brief history of your company:
CNJ Investments Co. started in 1981 in northern Illinois. We purchased and renovated distressed and/or abandoned homes. Our company slogan, "Helping families own homes," reflected our firm belief that more families could realize the American dream if they were given an opportunity to save their down payment while renting the home they wanted to purchase.
In 1985 we moved to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and expanded our real estate base to include commercial, residential and agricultural properties in three states. As market and financing conditions changed our business also evolved.
In 1991 we purchased our first farm. While we intended to sell specialty hay for horses, we were surprised to discover that we owned a "sugar bush," an area densely populated with sweet maple trees. As we explored our new farm, we encountered several varieties of wild berries. We learned to tap the trees for syrup and harvest the wild fruits for jams and syrups. We originally gave these products as gifts for family and friends. Soon the requests started coming and Sweet Maple Farms became another family business.
What services or goods does your business provide?
CNJ Investments owns and manages commercial, agricultural and residential properties.
Sweet Maple Farms sells specialty grass hay for horses, maple products, and harvests and processes wild fruits and organically grown vegetables.
How many employees do you have?
We have one full-time employee for the office in addition to seasonal help for the farming and sub-contractors for the property maintenance.
Do you employ family members? If so, how many?
Yes, we have a large family and everyone helps when they are home. Our six children grew up in the family businesses. As they marry and pursue other careers, we fill in the holes with local high-school and college students.
When did you join NFIB?
1985
What first attracted you to NFIB?
NFIB seemed to be the lone voice for small business. The chamber of commerce was totally out of touch with the issues of small employers. We appreciated the focus and understanding of the daily problems we face.
How has NFIB helped you as a small-business owner?
The legislative impact has been invaluable. The articles in NFIB's magazine [MyBUSINESS] directly address issues we face.
How did you get involved as an activist in NFIB?
I have always been an activist, working on various issues that impact how we live and conduct business. Through NFIB we all get "the most bang for the buck." I have limited time and know that NFIB promotes the same issues I am passionate about.
What have you done through NFIB to further the cause of small business?
I have lobbied for several bills which would reduce the regulatory red tape and balance the playing field for small-business owners.
Please tell us the biggest challenge (legislative or otherwise) facing your business.
- The eminent domain issue is one which will threaten all of us until it is reigned in.
- The ability to provide benefits for employees at a cost which will not break us.
What is the best part about being a small-business owner?
We are able to maximize our resources to provide the greatest benefit for our family and our employees (sub-contractors) without the threat of down-sizing or corporate buy-out. We are the stewards of the blessings we have been given and we have the opportunity to give back, by providing jobs for those who need a place to start.
