So I just returned from a Site Consultants Forum in Austin, Texas, hosted by the Texas Economic Development Council. While most of the commentary was directly relatable to economic development, I do believe that Kate McEnroe's comments are transferable to any industry or workplace.Kate's presentation focused on how "doing your research" can increase your return on investment. The following are a few notes I found relevant: DATA INFORMATION KNOWLEDGE WISDOMThe availability of the information...

As many of us tuned in to last night's State of the Union address, I am sure we all took away something a little different, regardless of our opinions on how the government will respond in 2014. So, let's take a look at some of the "quotable" moments from last night's presentations.President Obama:"After five years of grit and determined effort, the United States is better positioned for the 21st century than any other nation on Earth.""Let's make this a year of action. That's what most...

Last week the Greater Beaumont Chamber of Commerce recognized the 2014 Dr. Robert A. Swerdlow Small Business Person of the Year. The award was presented to Derek Bell of CMS IP Technologies, a local IT firm. Since 1984, CMS IP Technologies has provided exceptional service at competitive prices in the technology services industry. Since its inception, CMS has grown to become the largest solutions provider between Houston and New Orleans. CMS currently operates two brick and mortar locations in...

We are looking forward to a great 2014 for Beaumont and Southeast Texas! As I compose this column about the future, I have some random thoughts to share.Long-term unemployment insurance ended for 1.3 million people at the end of December. I find it interesting that most of them live in California and New York where high taxes and anti business sentiment runs high. Regulations banning fracking and other anti-fossil-fuel regulations abound there, as an example. Analysis of who these people really...