Applying discipline and focus, small companies and individuals may create remarkable experiences for consumers. I learned this during a recent weeklong vacation on the north coast of Massachusetts, otherwise known as the Boston North Shore. A dog in Gloucester, two bed and breakfast establishments in Marblehead and a Harvard bookstore Help Desk clerk provided memorable moments.

Conkling Fiskum & McCormick won two more awards November 4 for marketing public relations work on behalf of Tillamook Cheese. It was the sixth time in six different marketing award events in 2009 that CFM has earned top honors for Tillamook.

The Portland Business Alliance Breakfast Forum will host a debate at 7:30 a.m. November 18 to examine two measures on the ballot in January that provide for temporary and permanent state income tax increases.