If you're a regular reader of America's Best, you might be wondering whose face has suddenly appeared on this page. My name is Lisa Doyle and I've taken on the managing editor position at America's Best after five years of editing magazines for the beauty industry. I'll be perfectly honest: There are a lot worse jobs out there for a woman in her twenties. I knew the salon business inside and out, and I probably could have stayed there for another five years without complaint.

But when the opportunity to edit America's Best came along, I knew that I couldn't let it pass me by. I actually come from a very entrepreneurial family—my dad opened his own doctor's office in the early '90s, and my mom runs a home-based career coaching business—so I've grown up seeing the trials and triumphs that come with owning a small business. More than that, though, I believe that behind every small business is a great story. Whether you are a career-changer or inherited the family business, your job isn't just your paycheck—it's your passion.

With the economy in its current state, and consumers tightening their belts across the country, there couldn't be a better time for you to belong to our association. Since you joined America's Best Companies, you've become part of a community of more than 10,000 like-minded business owners who face the same challenges that you do. We're providing you with unrivaled networking opportunities, tons of discounts through our partners and, of course, your favorite magazine.

Speaking of favorites...
This edition of America's Best is our favorite issue—literally! Stories in this issue are inspired by what we personally believe are some of the best products, services and organizations for small business this year. Check out our cover story, "Hot List 2008," a compilation of the top gadgets, websites, trends and more that you need to know about as a small business owner in America. Have personal experience with any of the items on the list? Be sure to visit gowithabc.com to give us your two cents!

Pardon our dust
As you've probably noticed, America's Best, now into its fifth issue, has improved with each installment in terms of design, editorial and more. Like any business that's recently been launched, we've been in the process of working out the kinks and finding our footing, and we're proud of the new look we're introducing in this issue. Plus, you'll see even more relevant business-building strategies, more owner profiles and "how we did it" articles, and more Q&As from qualified experts. Believe me, I understand that you need only the most straightforward, results-proven information—not a bunch of corporate marketing-speak, but real advice that you can implement in your business to make it grow. That's exactly what we'll deliver to you from this issue forward. Questions or suggestions? Feel free to e-mail me at lisa@gowithabc.com. I am looking forward to hearing from you!

All the best,
Lisa Doyle
Managing Editor