Manufacturing is alive and well in Gem County boosting the economy and jobs thanks to Manufactured & Modular Axle and Tire Co (M & M).  “This is an extremely unique business,” said Doug Strunk, Manager. “In a nutshell, we gather, refurbish and resupply the axles, tires and items needed to deliver and set up modular homes. We gather up product from as far as Minnesota to the Pacific Ocean.”  M & M opened in November of 2011 and within 6 weeks was able to deliver their first factory load.  “We service six local factories (modular/manufactured homes) and a few in Oregon and Washington,” said Strunk. “We bring the axles and tires here, refurbish them and then certify them. The axles go from us to the local factory. They are used to deliver the homes and then we send out trucks to gather everything from the sites.”  According to Strunk, North Dakota accounts for over 50% of their current business.  “We have 12 employees,” said Strunk. “I’ve been in the business, along with Glenda (Strunk) who is our Office Manger, for over 30 years. Our Production Manager, Mike Gentry, has 32 years experience. We also have a couple of experienced guys we partnered with new employees to teach them the trade. They are working on 10 axles at a time putting out about 60 per day. That’s a lot of experience putting out a lot of product.”  M & M is basically a wholesale business but they also sell mobile home set-up supplies and repair items to the general public.  “If you are setting up a mobile home and need skirting, piers, anchors or other items, we also sell these directly to the public,” said Strunk. “It’s very handy for clients to be able to just walk in and buy what they need. Customers come in from all over the Treasure Valley. Many clients are senior citizens. We make sure they get what they need and often can refer them to some of our qualified installers if they need help.”  As if recycling axles was not enough, M & M also recycles tires as part of their diversification and “green” dedication.  “When we do a pick up we gather everything,” said Strunk. “When a tire is not able to be used, M & M gives the tires to an outfit that grinds them down to be used for playgrounds and high school tracks. We recycle everything. We’re doing well but we’ll grow; we have room to grow but we can only grow so fast. We want to do it right.”  M & M is open to the public, Monday – Friday, 7 – 4 or by appointment at 843 N. Washington Ave, 365-7463.