When examining the numbers for 2019 there are some real positives and some challenges. Hotel/motel and restaurant receipt numbers through the first 11 months are strong with restaurant numbers up more than 4% and hotels up more than 5%. Average county wages for Cape County continue to climb and currently stand at $40,625. Population for Cape and Jackson continues to increase with Cape experiencing an addition of more than 1,900 people since 2010 for a 5% increase and Jackson growing by more than

It is a difficult thing to define but a very important component of a vibrant community. Quality of life is a much used phrase in the marketing materials of just about every area. But exactly what is quality of life and how do you measure it? And are there basic components that matter to everyone? Several indicators are widely recognized in defining quality of life. They are: education, the economy, public safety, natural environment, health, social environment, government, and recreation /

This is a perfect time of the year to talk about one our most important business sectors. The retail landscape is changing dramatically. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 10% of all retail sales dollars now occur online and that number has grown from 4% in 2010. In certain product categories, that number is much higher. A recent Fortune Magazine survey revealed 51% of consumer goods shoppers now make their purchases online. The numbers are substantially lower for major ticket items

This past week we celebrated Thanksgiving and I want to take this opportunity to offer my thanks. First, I want to thank KRCU for this great partnership. Each week I have the opportunity to relay an important business topic to this key listener group. The comments I receive make me realize the importance of this segment. Next, I want to thank our membership. Because each of you are so committed to your role in your businesses and professions you make this place special. Thank you for your

Infrastructure can be defined as the physical structures necessary for the functioning of an area or a society. A reliable, robust infrastructure is extremely important for both business and the general public. Unfortunately, much of an area’s infrastructure can be overlooked or taken for granted because parts are not visible. We don’t see the intricate systems of storm sewers, sanitary sewers, water lines, gas lines, and some electrical services. We only notice these things when they don’t work

Many exciting changes are coming to the Cape Girardeau Regional Airport as boarding numbers continue to rise. About two years ago, the Cape City Council followed a recommendation from the Airport Board to change carriers to Sky West – a United Airlines affiliate – and begin jet service to Chicago O’Hare. The FAA agreed and flights to Chicago began. Just recently, airport manager Bruce Loy announced boardings have topped the 10,000 mark in 2019. This is an important number as it allows the

You have an opportunity to affect economic development and make a big difference in the local economy in the next 60 days. Believe it or not, holiday shopping season is upon us. November and December are huge months for the retail industry. You play an important role in the success of our retail businesses. I realize it is very easy to order from Amazon or some other mega online retail source. But before you do so, please consider what the local shops have to offer. A wide array of products and

Location, location, location – the phrase is well-known in real estate AND in economic development. Missouri is in a great geographic position with its location in the center of the United States. This should be a huge advantage in economic development. We are rich in many transportation resources including rivers, rail, highways, airports, and river ports. However, our transportation infrastructure is struggling. Within 500 miles of the state of Missouri is 43% of the U.S. population, 41% of

The research is in and there are major benefits in having diversity on work teams. If you have the pleasure of having racial, gender, and age diversity on the team you work with, you probably understand my opening line. Either way, let’s look at some of the ways diverse work teams produce better results and add to the profitability of a business. Studies show diverse teams are more creative. Although you may be more comfortable working with people who share your same background, certainly people

This is a big week for Southeast Missouri State University and the entire Cape Girardeau region. Monday, October 21 through Saturday, October 26, is Homecoming week for the University. This is an exciting annual event that provides lots of opportunities for alumni and the general public. These include an Alumni Coffee and Donuts event, many fraternity and sorority gatherings, the Copper Dome Dinner, the Homecoming parade, and, of course, Saturday’s football game against UT Martin. As always,