The number of homes sold in southeastern Wisconsin was up significantly in 2012, but the prices of homes sold continued their post Great Recession slide.

Financial institutions will continue to improve from a profitability standpoint throughout 2013. However, earnings pressures will also continue to challenge the industry.

As we move into a new year, I am reminded of a story in the book: “Leadership From the Inside Out,” by Kevin Cashman.

Question:

Geoff was pumped when he was promoted to his new job as a manager in the customer service department. He had earned it with great results; customers loved him, he solved problems faster than his peers and he had taken on extra projects.

Many people think that growing their business will eventually lead to happiness, but surprisingly; it's the other way around. Research over the past few years quantifies the link between happiness and corporate outcomes, reporting that unhappiness has a direct correlation with lower productivity.

Kenosha-based multifacturing company Xten Industries LLC has partnered with Kenosha-based Gateway Technical College to offer a scholarship and an internal training program.

U.S. factory production rose in December for the second straight month, buoyed by more output of autos, electronics and business equipment.