Just last week I was honored to spend much of the time in Tampa FL at the MacDill Conference in the company of about 800 veterans who are serious about building successful businesses. It was  remarkable conference, and kudos to Nelson Escribano, the dedicated and tireless DAFC Small Business Specialist and his most capable conference coordinator, Anita Jentzen, President & CEO, Detail Planners for putting together one of the most professional events I have ever experienced (and I have been to many events!)

I was honored to present the Friday lunch time keynote speech, it was just as powerful for me as I hope it was for the 800+ attendees. Video: (Part 1 and Part 2 )

And, for all veterans and those who work at veteran-owned firms, we are hosting our 4^th annual complimentary Veterans in Federal Contracting Teleconference on Veterans Day (Nov 11, 2010). You are invited to dial in---no travel, easy dial in from any phone. We have a powerful line up of speakers and will be giving the complimentary 47 page Toolkit (our Targetgov exclusive, written specifically for this teleconference) to all registrants too. See details below.

If you have read this newsletter recently, you know I have been a road-warrior for the past few months. It took a toll on a recent trip and I was stupid enough (and tired enough)  to walk off the plane and leave my laptop on board. I did not even realize it until two hours later (stuck in DC beltway Friday evening traffic), and then, of course, the plane was already onto its next destination and no one knew if the laptop was turned in. I was assured by the United airlines staff that if the cleaning crew or the flight crew picked it up, I would get it back. If a passenger picked it up, well, who knows?

After two weeks of worry, changing all logins/passwords (aaarrrgggh) just to be safe, and of vigilance, checking to see if anyone hacked into any accounts, I was oh so relieved (understatement of the year) to get it back from the lost and found office at United Dulles. It had not even been turned on, so all data was just as I left it. A HUGE thank you to the people at United Airlines who had my back and did all the right things toreturn it to me; I am one fortunate person.

All the best to you and yours, may someone always have your back, and as always, here's to your success!