In a country that includes varying landscape, numerous historical monuments, and picturesque scenery, it's tough to pinpoint the best places in America to spend your time.
Yet, teams participating in a "Best of the Road" contest may have found them. The contest, sponsored by Rand McNally and USA Today, evoked surprising findings recently chronicled in a USA Today article headlined, "The five best small towns in America." The task required each team to "start in New York City and wind up in Los Angeles, exploring the best of small-town America along the way," USA Today wrote.
And amongst the winners, dubbed the "Most Beautiful" by its surveyors, is Sandpoint, Idaho. Located northeast of Spokane, Wash. in the Idaho Panhandle, Sandpoint provides the scenery of Lake Pend Oreille, vast mountain expanse and outdoor activities galore.
"Sandpoint isn't just a 'drive through and let's stop here' place," the team that visited told the USA Today. "Its quaint downtown shops and restaurants welcomed us in, and its landscape kept us in awe."
Also included on the list were Walla Walla, Wash., Lafayette, La., Rapid City, S.D., and Glenwood Springs, Colo. The five winning towns "were chosen based on friendly people, great scenery, terrific food, patriotic fervor and just plain fun," USA Today wrote.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Tuesday, January 17, 2012
Spokane, Wash. lands on 'Top 100 Places to Live' list
Spokane, Wash. has landed a spot on "Relocate America's 2011 Top 100 Overall Places to Live," continuing its legacy of notably high quality of life.
Known for its continual economic expansion, family-oriented community, and progressive ideas, the area provides its residents with nearly every aspect a comfortable life can offer - and offers breathtaking scenery to enhance the experience.
"Spokane is the perfect base for all sorts of activities with an amazing number of outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive away," Relocate America wrote. "You'll find mountains for skiing, hiking and biking, lakes and rivers for swimming, boating and fishing, and golf courses with challenging holes and unmatched scenery."
This year, Relocate America chose each candidate based on a few high-priority factors: "communities positioned for economic recovery, already experiencing economic recovery or have proven overall economic stability," according to Relocate America.
Spokane provides beautiful scenery and approximately 260 days of sunshine to utilize it and an optimistic economic outlook. Relocate America notes the strong health care, higher education, and research community that stabilizes and promotes the community's business opportunities.
Holding its own on a list with Austin, Texas, Phoenix, Washington, D.C., and Denver, Spokane seems to offer its every-growing population of residenta more than enough momentum and possibilities to keep them satisfied. Claiming the phrase, "Near Nature-Near Perfect," the community continues to remain a sought-after destination point for individuals looking for a comfortable, affordable and convenient lifestyle.
Known for its continual economic expansion, family-oriented community, and progressive ideas, the area provides its residents with nearly every aspect a comfortable life can offer - and offers breathtaking scenery to enhance the experience.
"Spokane is the perfect base for all sorts of activities with an amazing number of outdoor recreational opportunities just a short drive away," Relocate America wrote. "You'll find mountains for skiing, hiking and biking, lakes and rivers for swimming, boating and fishing, and golf courses with challenging holes and unmatched scenery."
This year, Relocate America chose each candidate based on a few high-priority factors: "communities positioned for economic recovery, already experiencing economic recovery or have proven overall economic stability," according to Relocate America.
Spokane provides beautiful scenery and approximately 260 days of sunshine to utilize it and an optimistic economic outlook. Relocate America notes the strong health care, higher education, and research community that stabilizes and promotes the community's business opportunities.
Holding its own on a list with Austin, Texas, Phoenix, Washington, D.C., and Denver, Spokane seems to offer its every-growing population of residenta more than enough momentum and possibilities to keep them satisfied. Claiming the phrase, "Near Nature-Near Perfect," the community continues to remain a sought-after destination point for individuals looking for a comfortable, affordable and convenient lifestyle.
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Talking economic outlook on KKZZ radio in S. Calif.
California has become a tough place to do business. State government is a mess, pension funds are out of control, and worker's compensation costs are sky high.
It's true that those conditions may be a little more common given today's economy. The problem is California's been this way for 25 years. They simply can't seem to get their act together to run the state.
You start running the numbers and it does not take long for businesses to figure out they can save a lot of money by leaving California. I recently had a chance to discuss the challenges facing the state's business and opportunities they are finding elsewhere with Ron Tunick, a Southern California-based business coach and host of the radio program, "The Business of Life."
We talked about the benefits to small- or medium-sized businesses of looking out of state to escape the high cost of California and burden of its high-tax structure. Businesses considering relocation or expansion weigh many factors, looking for such things as:
It's true that those conditions may be a little more common given today's economy. The problem is California's been this way for 25 years. They simply can't seem to get their act together to run the state.
You start running the numbers and it does not take long for businesses to figure out they can save a lot of money by leaving California. I recently had a chance to discuss the challenges facing the state's business and opportunities they are finding elsewhere with Ron Tunick, a Southern California-based business coach and host of the radio program, "The Business of Life."
We talked about the benefits to small- or medium-sized businesses of looking out of state to escape the high cost of California and burden of its high-tax structure. Businesses considering relocation or expansion weigh many factors, looking for such things as:
- A stable, favorable tax structure, both business and personal, to minimize impacts on the company and the employees that follow
- Low-cost electrict utility rates
- Lower worker's compensation rates
- Low unemployment rate, such as what exists in Idaho
Friday, March 25, 2011
Increased optimism, new business priorities
Unsteady economic conditions have forced widespread reconsideration of what matters most. Individuals and families have made tough choices relating to household expenses and lifestyle. Companies have adjusted their business practices to be competitive in today’s evolving marketplace.
All operational aspects have been scrutinized as part of that process. Everything from building design to process efficiency to facility location has been considered in the interest of gaining a competitive advantage. In some cases, that means better positioning to seize market share during tough economic times. In more extreme – and unfortunately, not uncommon – instances, companies are fighting to stay in business.
Every year, Area Development magazine surveys corporate executives about their business plans. The survey delves into how current economic pressures impact priorities. The magazine concluded from its most recent survey that, “The economy’s gradual recovery during 2010 has resulted in increased business optimism, a rise in new facility plans, and some changes in site selection priorities.”
A few additional noteworthy observations from the survey:
Focus on product. Nearly three out of four new facilities will serve a manufacturing, warehouse or distribution purpose.
Job growth is modest. More than three quarters of new domestic facilities will create fewer than 100 jobs, although at 77 percent that number represents a slight improvement over last year’s 80 percent.
Get goods to market. Cost effectively. Highway accessibility traded places with labor costs as the most important factor, but both are still among the three top considerations along with tax exemptions.
Think sustainably. Sustainable development is on the rise. High numbers of executives are making energy-saving modifications to existing facilities (85 percent), recycling or reusing waste products (59 percent), changing supply and distribution methods (28 percent), and seeking LEED certification for new or existing facilities (23 percent).
Market reactivity desired. Shovel-ready or pre-certified sites, which speed the development process, were cited as important nearly half the time.
Clustering matters. Businesses generally want to locate near others involved in similar activities.
All operational aspects have been scrutinized as part of that process. Everything from building design to process efficiency to facility location has been considered in the interest of gaining a competitive advantage. In some cases, that means better positioning to seize market share during tough economic times. In more extreme – and unfortunately, not uncommon – instances, companies are fighting to stay in business.
Every year, Area Development magazine surveys corporate executives about their business plans. The survey delves into how current economic pressures impact priorities. The magazine concluded from its most recent survey that, “The economy’s gradual recovery during 2010 has resulted in increased business optimism, a rise in new facility plans, and some changes in site selection priorities.”
A few additional noteworthy observations from the survey:
Focus on product. Nearly three out of four new facilities will serve a manufacturing, warehouse or distribution purpose.
Job growth is modest. More than three quarters of new domestic facilities will create fewer than 100 jobs, although at 77 percent that number represents a slight improvement over last year’s 80 percent.
Get goods to market. Cost effectively. Highway accessibility traded places with labor costs as the most important factor, but both are still among the three top considerations along with tax exemptions.
Think sustainably. Sustainable development is on the rise. High numbers of executives are making energy-saving modifications to existing facilities (85 percent), recycling or reusing waste products (59 percent), changing supply and distribution methods (28 percent), and seeking LEED certification for new or existing facilities (23 percent).
Market reactivity desired. Shovel-ready or pre-certified sites, which speed the development process, were cited as important nearly half the time.
Clustering matters. Businesses generally want to locate near others involved in similar activities.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
Site selection can be a lengthy process
Selecting a location for relocation or expansion is an investment of significant time and an exercise in patience. Evaluating options requires culling large amounts of information and evaluating that data to arrive at a decision.
Most businesses consider real estate options, workforce quality and availability, training, and business climate among other factors. They weigh those factors against other communities that meet their geographic, transportation and other needs to select the best option. That process can take years of careful evaluation from start to finish.
Payoff comes when companies find the site selection sweet spot. Global Future Energy Holdings, Inc. recently announced that Spokane Valley, Wash. will become the site of its first U.S. manufacturing and distribution facility. The company began looking for a site in 2005.
Spokane Valley “stood out as an ideal location due to available sites, a strong workforce” and a partnership opportunity with another local company, Marius de Mos, the company’s president and CEO, said in a news release. GFEH, which will do business as Prestyl in Spokane Valley, met its expansion needs on multiple fronts. Those kind of synergies are what seal site selection deals.
Prestyl has developed a proprietary infrared, thin-film heating technology. The technology, common in aerospace and mass transportation applications, will be used to produce infrared heating panels that can be mounted to ceilings and walls. Ecolite Manufacturing, a Spokane Valley company that engaged Prestyl during its site search, and will be a partner in manufacturing the panels.
“This project has been exciting and unique in that it provides a multi-faceted win for our organization and the greater community – incorporating elements of business recruitment, business expansion and foreign direct investment,” said Gary Mallon, technology industry manager for Greater Spokane Incorporated, which recruited Prestyl.
Most businesses consider real estate options, workforce quality and availability, training, and business climate among other factors. They weigh those factors against other communities that meet their geographic, transportation and other needs to select the best option. That process can take years of careful evaluation from start to finish.
Payoff comes when companies find the site selection sweet spot. Global Future Energy Holdings, Inc. recently announced that Spokane Valley, Wash. will become the site of its first U.S. manufacturing and distribution facility. The company began looking for a site in 2005.
Spokane Valley “stood out as an ideal location due to available sites, a strong workforce” and a partnership opportunity with another local company, Marius de Mos, the company’s president and CEO, said in a news release. GFEH, which will do business as Prestyl in Spokane Valley, met its expansion needs on multiple fronts. Those kind of synergies are what seal site selection deals.
Prestyl has developed a proprietary infrared, thin-film heating technology. The technology, common in aerospace and mass transportation applications, will be used to produce infrared heating panels that can be mounted to ceilings and walls. Ecolite Manufacturing, a Spokane Valley company that engaged Prestyl during its site search, and will be a partner in manufacturing the panels.
“This project has been exciting and unique in that it provides a multi-faceted win for our organization and the greater community – incorporating elements of business recruitment, business expansion and foreign direct investment,” said Gary Mallon, technology industry manager for Greater Spokane Incorporated, which recruited Prestyl.
Monday, March 7, 2011
Nurturing industry clusters beneficial to business
A supportive business environment is crucial to success, especially when it includes a group of like companies willing to set aside competition for the benefit of local industry. Manufacturers, as an example, benefit from clustering in an area. Grouping in a close proximity creates a critical mass and economies of scale that draw suppliers and bolster a workforce. Benefits include improved cost and quality controls.
It can also lead to leveraged marketing opportunities, as is the case in the northern Idaho and eastern Washington communities that share the Snake River and a growing boat building industry as a common link.
Six welded-aluminum jet boat manufacturers from Lewiston and Orofino, Idaho and Clarkston, Wash. have formed a joint marketing effort under the umbrella of the Snake River Boat Builders Export Program. The idea is to use their collective resources to draw global attention to their capabilities and products and develop viable foreign markets. And, of course, drive sales.
The group recently participated in the 42nd boot Dusseldorf, dubbed the “world’s biggest water sports show.” The show provided hands-on training for the boat manufacturers, contacts with potential buyers, a chance to see new ideas and technologies, and global industry perspective.
It was the return engagement to a European trade mission delegation that visited the Snake River Boat Builders last year. The group toured factories, tested boats and became the focus of the first annual Snake River Boat Expo.
It can also lead to leveraged marketing opportunities, as is the case in the northern Idaho and eastern Washington communities that share the Snake River and a growing boat building industry as a common link.
Six welded-aluminum jet boat manufacturers from Lewiston and Orofino, Idaho and Clarkston, Wash. have formed a joint marketing effort under the umbrella of the Snake River Boat Builders Export Program. The idea is to use their collective resources to draw global attention to their capabilities and products and develop viable foreign markets. And, of course, drive sales.
The group recently participated in the 42nd boot Dusseldorf, dubbed the “world’s biggest water sports show.” The show provided hands-on training for the boat manufacturers, contacts with potential buyers, a chance to see new ideas and technologies, and global industry perspective.
It was the return engagement to a European trade mission delegation that visited the Snake River Boat Builders last year. The group toured factories, tested boats and became the focus of the first annual Snake River Boat Expo.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Companies turning to programs that support business growth
Access to business incubators and other resources that support business development is an important consideration for any company. Such organizations and programs are valuable sources of grant money, knowledge, low-cost space and other benefits.
In the case of grant funding, the money can be used to jump start production that leads to increased revenues and creates jobs. The Sirti Foundation, which helps business-assistance agency Sirti to accelerate growth of technology-based companies in the Inland Northwest, is one such example. The privately funded tax-exempt entity recently awarded $1.5 million from its Energy Innovation Fund to:
• Demand Energy, which is developing distributed electricity storage devices and network management software
• Great Northern Spokane for a geothermal heat pump demonstration project
• Greenwood Clean Energy in support of enhancing EPA-approved biomass boiler manufacturing
• NuElement, Inc., a company commercializing bio-aviation, fuel battery extender auxiliary power unit
• WISErg Corporation, which is using an anaerobic digester to derive bioresources from municipal organic compostable materials
Sirti, an agency of the state of Washington, is a collaboration of business, higher education and government to accelerate the development and growth of technology-based companies in the Inland Northwest.
In the case of grant funding, the money can be used to jump start production that leads to increased revenues and creates jobs. The Sirti Foundation, which helps business-assistance agency Sirti to accelerate growth of technology-based companies in the Inland Northwest, is one such example. The privately funded tax-exempt entity recently awarded $1.5 million from its Energy Innovation Fund to:
• Demand Energy, which is developing distributed electricity storage devices and network management software
• Great Northern Spokane for a geothermal heat pump demonstration project
• Greenwood Clean Energy in support of enhancing EPA-approved biomass boiler manufacturing
• NuElement, Inc., a company commercializing bio-aviation, fuel battery extender auxiliary power unit
• WISErg Corporation, which is using an anaerobic digester to derive bioresources from municipal organic compostable materials
Sirti, an agency of the state of Washington, is a collaboration of business, higher education and government to accelerate the development and growth of technology-based companies in the Inland Northwest.
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