The Observation Deck

Many small-business people are worried about a possible recession. But for some, a weak economy isn't a fear looming on the horizon—it's a way of life. Take Sarah Wilson-Jones, CEO of Phoenix Coffee Co., which runs five stores in the Cleveland area. "In general, Cleveland is in the dumps already," Wilson-Jones says. "We've never had rollicking economic conditions here, so we're kind of just used to this kind of climate."