The STEWART Story - Oct. 10, 2108

ERICK STEWART: The STEWART story starts with a dream. I guess when I was a little kid my dad tells me, "I always wanted to go into business with my son." You know, I said, "Dad, I want to get a real job." I just want to get out of college and, you know, pave my own way. Fast forward – after college, I was ready for a transition. My dad and I got together and decided to write a business plan. A year later, I had quit a well-paying job, started STEWART Industries. When we started, STEWART Industries had as much technology as you have on your phone. Who could have imagined that we'd still be around for 18 years.

STABENOW: Well, it doesn't matter what I'm doing in a particular community, I try to fit in visits with small businesses. It's very inspiring to me to talk to somebody whose taken their life savings to do what they want to do. I can talk to people directly about what their challenges are.

STEWART: The senator's visit was great. You know, we talked a lot about family and personal things. You know, as a small businessman and entrepreneur, I'm looking for a champion. I'm looking for somebody that will get off the bench screaming. Senator Stabenow is that champion.