This situation would turn into a solid underlying bullish factor for safe-haven gold should military action in that region escalate.

FORBES: P.M. Kitco Metals Roundup: Gold Ends Solidly Lower on Bearish "Outside Markets," More Risk-Aversion

Watkins' one-person energy shop, Watkins Pencor , is a principal owner in Masada Oxynol , a Birmingham company that has devised a way to turn municipal solid waste into fuel-grade ethanol.

FORBES: Show Me the Money

And we believe that anyone with a solid plan and a willingness to work hard can turn even the most improbable idea into a successful business.

WHITEHOUSE: President Obama Signs the JOBS Act