harvey brock

I was taught and believe that rule No. 1 in business is the customer is always right, and rule No. 2 is to see rule No. 1. That being said, there are some folks you can’t afford to have as customers. I’ve often seen signs on a cash register that often will say, “We reserve the...

The new energy debate is whether or not the United States should allow the export of American crude oil. The export of American oil, except to Canada, has been restricted since the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) oil boycott of the 1970s. Back then, Saudi...

Monday is President’s Day, a state and federal holiday for their workers and some folks who work in the banking and financial industry. Now those of you who qualify for the day off with pay appreciate the time off. But do we really need a day to honor U.S. presidents? Presidents...

The first time I really heard about methamphetamine was when I was working in South Dakota. There was a story in the newspaper of a single mother in Iowa who was a meth addict. Her small children literally starved to death after she left them for more than a week when she was high...

National Pie Day came and went Thursday without nearly the publicity and fanfare such an auspicious day deserves. Jan. 22 is the official Pie Day and in no way should be confused with national Pi day celebrated on March 14, which is the Greek sign for mathematics and — judging...

Let me begin by apologizing if this column comes across as snarky, condescending, haughty and smug. However, I am always amazed how the first inch or two of snow every fall can seemingly come to such a surprise to folks who live in the Northern Hemisphere. Now I know there are...

The first of November I issued a challenge to my clean-shaven brothers to put way their razors for No-Shave November. I must admit to being pleasantly surprised at the number of those who accepted. While researching No-Shave November, I came across these facial hair facts on a website...

Someone told me a long time ago the three most important things in life are faith, family and finances. Thanksgiving gives me a moment to pause and give thanks for all that I have to be thankful for, and especially these three and the wisdom to appreciate them in that order. Thankfully...

These days, most folks wouldn’t be caught dead without a cellphone in their hand and using it to text is almost mandatory, which is OK, as long as you don’t text while driving. Watch a group of kids (anyone under 40) and they will be talking to each other while texting. I don’t...

Next Friday marks the 50th anniversary of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. People of my generation all seem to remember when they heard the news. I was a 7-year-old living on Elmendorf Air Force Base in Anchorage, Alaska, where my dad was stationed. I don’t remember...

I was raised a service brat, so I am aware of the sacrifices families of service men and women endure. My father seldom talked about his life in the military and never about time spent in combat. I think the only people who can really appreciate what it is like to serve in the armed...