Agenda 11/05

Thanksgiving is this month's main event, and while we encourage seconds, beware the toll that tryptophan can have on personal productiv...zzzzzzz.

November 1

Just putting the finishing touches on next year's budget--and wondering if there's a different way to run a business? There's a movement advocating the "adaptive approach" to budgeting, which is based on decentralized decision making rather than on firm dollar targets. Go to www.bbrt.org to learn more.

November 8

It's Election Day. In New Jersey, Doug Forrester (R), an entrepreneur, is taking on Sen. Jon Corzine (D), the former CEO of Goldman Sachs, for governor. In Virginia, former Attorney General Jerry Kilgore (R) is running against Lt. Gov. Tim Kaine (D) for that state's top job. And entrepreneur-cum-mayor (and D-cum-R) Mike Bloomberg is seeking re-election in New York City.

November 12

Today's the deadline for sending parcel-post packages to troops with APO/FPO addresses for Christmas delivery. If you don't know anyone on active duty, you and your staff can go to AnySoldier.com or SoldiersAngels.org to find recipients for care packages.

November 19

Seven score and two years ago, Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address. At 272 words, its brevity stunned the crowd, which offered only a smattering of applause. Today, its rhythmic structure, emotion, and concision place it among the best American speeches. Before your next big talk, read Lend Me Your Ears, a collection of great speeches (including Gettysburg) selected by William Safire ($39.95, Norton).

November 25

It's Black Friday, the busiest shopping day of the year. The National Retail Federation's Shop.org compiles research and news for retailers.

November 27

Forever young he may not be, but Bob Dylan wraps up his European tour in Dublin tonight. Other aging-and-raging rockers on tour include the Rolling Stones, who are in the Southwest, and Elton John, who's tinkling ivories in the Southeast.