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Small business owner fights for dreams

By Eric Sollman - bio | email

HUNTSVILLE, AL (WAFF) - There has been no shortage of self-starters since the recession began.

In the City of Huntsville, in the past two years alone, more than 4,000 people have applied for a business license. 4,534 to date, to be exact.

The latest round on Wall-Street, however, has put some small business owners inside a financial ring for the fight of their lives.

At Burwell's Martial Arts and Family Fitness, owner Otis Burwell and a staff that includes certified teachers and volunteers, work with several students.

Burwell said many of his students are very talented, but several are underprivileged.

"If you look at my students here, you don't see any earrings, you don't see the britches pulled down, you don't see the tattoos because these students are taught to be leaders and with proper mentoring, and with the proper guidance, they'll be successful," said Burwell. 

But that success comes at a price for both student, and teacher.

For the student, it's studies first, then martial arts.

For their instructors, it's providing a lesson, but also transportation for many of these children from 13 schools across Madison County.

"They're crying out for help, and we can't go out and help because we don't have the money," Burwell added. 

Expenses add up from gas for travel, to food and computers.

His business is trying to avoid being down for the count, but nearing a knock-out punch. 

"Any business without finances will go under. That's what we're fighting for, we're trying to keep our name above water," said Burwell.  

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