Dear Ellen, Winning the lottery would be the answer to my money problems. Got any tips? Thanks, Feel N. Lucky Dear Ms. Lucky, Wow! It’s mind boggling to consider. The last Mega Millions jackpot was the largest in history. Three winners are over $200 million richer! Did you buy a ticket? Are you enticed by [...]
The Hunger Game’s ravenous fans are flocking to theaters this week. The story has been told before (1984, Fahrenheit 451, The Running Man, The Giver among many others) and the appeal is timeless. The question – is mindless entertainment a substitute for human connection? – is worth asking. The Games are distracting. That’s the point. [...]
Former worker admits stealing nearly $170,000 from University Plaza Hotel edited news release from U.S. attorney’s office 2:10 p.m. CST, February 22, 2012 SPRINGFIELD, Mo. — A former employee of University Plaza Hotel and Convention Center in Springfield pleaded guilty in federal court on Wednesday for stealing nearly $170,000 from the hotel. “JM”, 47, of [...]
As a kid, I operated with a simple career plan: If I wanted to learn how to do something, I got a job doing that. That’s how I became a skier…starting as a ski rental technician, becoming a ski patroller, and then a ski instructor. I got a job at a marina so I could [...]
Serendipity: The faculty of happening upon fortunate discoveries when not in search of them. I love the moments that take me completely by surprise. When I expect one thing and find another. The other day I received a call from a woman named Cathy… “Hi Ellen, I read your article in the local business journal [...]
You know I’m a big reader. I love books of all shapes, lengths and genres. However, I am too old to tolerate a bad book. I’ve no time for it. So, let me save you some time. Here are a few sure-fire business book recommendations guaranteed to make you wiser, richer and better looking. Well, [...]
This may be an opportunity for you. This is a casting call for family-owned business owners who are in need of a turnaround. Here’s the scoop… Family members in the business must be 18 years old or older. Your business needs a storefront…not an in-home office. No bars or restaurants. Interested in service businesses, home [...]
I just love sharing great customer service experiences. Here’s one that has stuck with me. I was staying at a Radisson Hotel. Overall, the hotel facilities were lovely. However, it was the people who made me pay attention, and one person in particular. The employees were Midwestern friendly. Whenever I was in the elevator with [...]
“NO!” This word stands between you and everything you want. No wonder it is such a tough word to hear. But if you are going to survive in this industry you are going to have to learn to hear “no” for an answer! I’m not being pessimistic. The truth is that if you can hear [...]
