Category Archives: Uncategorized

My Grandfather, WW II Veteran, Visits DC

I’m extremely proud of my grandfather, Lt. Col. Emmett M. Cox, Jr. (Ret.) and my father the Honorable Emmett R. Cox. Both men visited Washington, D.C. for the day on Wednesday. Lt. Col. Emmett M. Cox, Jr. and Hon. Emmett … Continue reading

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Speaking to Alabama Law Students about the Association World

I’m excited to again speak to University of Alabama law students about opportunities in the association world.  The discussion is next week at the Washington offices of Hogan Lovells.  Partner Mike House is the organizer of Alabama’s government relations program … Continue reading

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Spring Break in Amsterdam – With the Kids!

In this post I’m taking a break from writing about associations, food policy, and leadership. My friends are headed to Amsterdam for spring break next week with their three children and I wanted to share what I think are some … Continue reading

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Cutting Edge Social Media for Associations

The magazine for association executives, Associations Now, has another great issue this month (Feb. 2013). The highlight is the article about the social media strategy at the Colorado Oil and Gas Association. The campaign is called “My Energy Truth” and … Continue reading

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What’s Your Favorite Mars Product?

Don’t miss the great article in the new Fortune magazine about Mars – Inside Mars, one of the 100 Best Companies to Work For, by David A. Kaplan. Here’s what I find interesting: Mars’ headquarters is in McLean, Virginia, the DC … Continue reading

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A Library of Event Checklists

I’m just back from a successful and well-executed client meeting at the Ritz Carlton Laguna Nigel in Dana Point, California.  Verto’s event planner Jane Reynolds deserves the credit for amazing food, good logistics, and no surprises.   Jane and I have … Continue reading

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Association Law Essentials

The newest edition of Associations Now has a good article on basic association law issues.  The article was written by Jerry A. Jacobs, dean of the association legal community.  Jerry’s book, Association Law Handbook, is in the Fifth Edition.  I … Continue reading

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True Professionalism at an Association Management Firm

I’ve just completed David Maister’s True Professionalism.  Originally published in 1997 and still relevant today, it is the single best guide I’ve found so far to managing a professional services firm like Verto Solutions. The most concise part of the … Continue reading

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How Does Nick Saban Do It?

I did some reading about Coach Nick Saban’s leadership philosophy and style in anticipation of the BCS National Championship game Monday night between Alabama and Notre Dame. There’s an interesting article in the September 24, 2012 Fortune magazine, “Leadership Lessons … Continue reading

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How to Make 2013 a Great Year: Your Guide to a More Productive Life

I always enjoy the sense of possibility that comes with an approaching New Year.  Fueled by holiday beverages, and reflected in a roaring fire, I see a more interesting and productive year on the horizon.  Can you see it too? … Continue reading

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