Small-business owners across central Virginia are dealing with some of the toughest economic times in decades. Despite that environment, many small businesses remain healthy. “The news is not all bad. There are plenty of businesses that are doing well in this market because they are solid and making the right decisions,“ said Nancy Thomas, president of the Retail Merchants Association.

Nancy Thomas yesterday was named president and chief executive officer of the Retail Merchants Association. She is the first woman to hold the position in the Richmond-based trade group’s 100-year history.

Better start marketing smarter. In this economy, don’t even think about stopping marketing, warned Tom Blue, a Glen Allen business consultant and author.