Author: The County Journal

Over the past century, the L.L. Johnson Lumber Mfg. Co. has persevered through two world wars, the Great Depression, industry downturns and recessions. Through it all, the company never stopped strategically planning for the changes of the future, while holding steadfast to its historical legacy. Against all odds…brothers Mark and Tim Johnson represent the fourth generation of Johnsons to own and run L.L. Johnson Lumber Mfg. Co. in Charlotte. With that comes a certain sense of responsibility both men feel as they guide the family business into more than a century of operation. “History has shown that often it is the fourth generation that bankrupts a company,” claims Mark Johnson, “We’re determined to prove that wrong.” 2018 marks the 109th year in business for the Charlotte-based lumber company. The milestone is a testament to a family skilled in adapting to the times and focused on helping their customers find the right woodworking solution for their projects. “I’m certainly proud to be part of a company that has been such an integral part of the local community for 109 years.” Tim Johnson said. The company’s story begins in 1909 when Lauren Lewis Johnson began a portable milling company out in the woods near Albion to supply switching ties and crossing planks to the growing railroad business in Michigan. L.L. Johnson established the permanent operation in Charlotte in the early1920s to...

By Holly Monschein I have known Aimee for what seems like my whole life. As often happens as we age, Aimee and I lost touch for a time. On Jan. 25, 2016, my life changed. I was at a basketball game for my son. I noticed that a friend was looking a little glum. I sat next to her to try to cheer her up. This friend works for Charlotte Public Schools. She said “We lost one of our own today. The dad of one of our students.” As you may know, at the time, I was a substitute teacher. I knew many kids in our school district. I felt very protective of these kids. I asked who it was. Her response, rocked me to my core. Eric Rogers. I knew who Eric was but I did not know him well. I knew he was young, too young for this. More so, I knew he owned Eric Rogers LLC and was married to my friend Aimee. Her daughter, Esa, would be devastated as well. I knew they couldn’t go through this without me. I reached out to Aimee and told her she could call me when she was ready. Aimee called me later that same evening and it was like we had never lost touch. The loss of Eric put into motion, a job opportunity for me. Within, four...

Cindy and Leon Black are excited by the change and growth that has taken place in Charlotte since they purchased Custom Home Interiors nearly five years ago. The couple purchased the business from founder Vince Ferris, who opened the business in the 1970s. “It is great to be a part of the local community and seeing it grow in the past few years,” Cindy said. Cindy said the recent spike in home sales has really helped the business. “The flooring industry is booming,” she said. “Business is back and better than ever.” Custom Home Interiors offers everything from floor covering, window treatment and ceramic tile. It offers one of the largest selections of ceramic tile in the Mid-Michigan area. Custom Home also carries many of the supplies needed for the “Do It Yourself” customers. “Custom Home Interiors takes pride in helping customers make good decisions and invest in their home or office,” Cindy said. “With so many new flooring options available, it can be a little overwhelming when deciding on the perfect product for your home. The personal assistance, knowledge, and beautiful showroom, with large take-home sample, make it easy and less stressful than shopping at a big box store.” The Remnant Room, located above the main showroom continues to be a great place to shop for clearance flooring with discounts up to 80 percent off. With fall just...