d-mars.com Business Journal 004

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People Helping People

Journal Publisher Keith J. Davis, Sr. Editor-in-Chief J. Monet Roberson Vice President of Operations Marlon Jackson Multimedia and Layout Director Jasen Adams Assistant Multimedia Director Albert Reff Multimedia Designers Andrea Hennekes Marketing Director Saundra Fletcher Distribution Greg Williams Administration Shannon Miles

Contributing Writers Carrie Dixon Ramone Harper Debra Bann Gomes G.L. Willis Stephen Allen Shirlene Clincy Autumn Osborne Brian Tracy Steve Folmar

D-MARS Business Journal 9898 Bissonnet, Suite 570 Houston, Texas 77036 713-272-9511 Phone 713-272-6364 Fax 1-800-453-8752 Toll Free www.d-mars.com

Table of Contents

Publisher’s Message Keith J. Davis, Sr.

Behind the

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, I felt the theme “People Helping People” would be the most appropriate for this issue. Houston has really shown its spirit of sacrifice and giving over the past few months with emphasis on the tragedies of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita. Businesses have offered free and discounted services. Residents have assisted evacuees with food, clothing and blankets. Churches have opened their doors as shelters for those in need. Houston promptly stepped forward with action to assist the evacuees with rebuilding their lives. We at D-MARS realize that the spirit of giving should not be limited to tragedies of large

Publisher’s Desk…….............…..2

magnitude, or just the Holiday Season. We also would like to salute everyone that makes giving to others one of their top priorities, year-round.

Calender ..................……………..5

This issue recognizes the contributions of others within the community who dedicate their time to helping others. From my counterpart Pinnacle Award recipients who’ve greatly impacted the city, to the various people featured throughout this issue. From Marcus Davis’ sponsoring various community events, to Deacon Harper and the Higher Dimension Church’s sponsoring various apartment complexes for community assistance and redevelopment.

Featured Business….....................7

This issue highlights those individuals and companies that make this city as unique as its various landmarks. Aside from the featured businesses, I strongly believe that it is important that everyone leaves some form of impact within this great city. I encourage everyone to contribute towards some cause, whether financially or physically, whether its on your individual behalf or on the behalf of your business. There’s mentoring programs, food drives, clothing drives, volunteering for the disabled and elderly. Or, your business may choose to fund scholarship programs or give internship opportunities to students. Businesses helping businesses equals people helping people“Lets Make it Happen!”

Editor-In-Chief

J. Monet Roberson On this theme: Marie Curtis never imagined she’d someday be homeless, penniless, without even a city to call “home”. She’d spent the last 48 years of her life running her late husband’s Bed and Breakfast in New Orleans East. Ms. Marie treasured her business. She considered her business and its employees to be her only family. So, when the first hurricane warnings came in late August, Ms. Marie hired help to board her windows, packed four days of clothing, her wedding picture, and headed west down I10 alone. I met Ms. Marie in the Astrodome a week later, wrapped in an old blanket. Like so many others from my home state of Louisiana, as well as the destroyed areas along the coastal line, the 72 year-old woman was seeking information on what, (if any), she could salvage of her life back home. The havoc of Katrina left Ms. Marie with nothing. FEMA’s debit card had been completely used within the first week on medicine and motels, and her future was a big mystery. I received a phone call from Ms. Marie three weeks ago. Her voice rang with excitement as she informed me that she was heading back home. With a grant from the Small Business Administration, and generous donation from an

earth angel, my dear friend Kyle Huntington, (founder of Huntington Properties), Ms. Marie is heading back to New Orleans to rebuild her husband’s legacy. Ms. Marie says her renovations will be completed by late December. She plans to re-open Jardin Lafitte’s doors by Christmas for $400/month for homeless residents that wish to return home, and to volunteers that are rebuilding her city. Her optimistic spirit and determination to keep her business alive, and making it happen at 72 is absolutely commendable. The whole concept of this issue is meaningful beyond words. As the newest member to the D-MARS organization, I’m grateful to be apart of this cause. The cause to show people new ways of doing things, to connect business owners with other business owners, (as with Ms. Marie), and to inform and inspire. This issue has undergone a few changes to further the cause. We’ve added a special advice section, a networking and workshop calendar, and resource guide. Moving into 2006, D-MARS Business Journal is the premiere source to help with your business networking. And while people like Kyle and Ms. Marie are furthering their causes, to help people with regaining their lives as well as accommodating the thousands that are helping with the rebuilding of the city, I would like to say, ‘Thank You,’ indefinitely.

Advice from the Pros ...................6 Finance…..............................….....11 Marlon’s Corner............................8 Coverstory ....................………..16 Education ......................................18 Extras ...........................................20



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D-MARS’ CALENDER OF EVENTS For information on how to list your event on the calendar, call D-MARS at 713-272-9511.

*Free two-hour “How to Run a Small Business” workshops are frequently given at the Ramada Plaza Hotel- 7611 Katy Freeway (Silber Road Exit). Information given includes tax tips, start-up tips, as well as tips on forming business stradegy. Schedules and reservations to attend the workshops, can be obtained by calling The School of Business and Public Administration- University of Houston- Clear Lake at 713-243-8815.

*11/16 Houston Networking News will host a Small Business Expo at the Reliant Center. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Fee $15. For more information or to become an exhibitor, call 713-778-6661. *The Daily Court Review will host a 3-day seminar on how to purchase property from the Constable’s Foreclosure Auction. Instructed by prominent Real Estate foreclosure investors and attorneys. Dates: 11/16- 11/18. Fee varies from $75, depending on date. For more information, call 713-869-5434.

Expand your contact list! *D-MARS Business Connections, a monthly networking event, will be held on Tuesday, November 29th, at 6 pm. The free event, which gives hundreds of small business owners an opportunity to meet other business owners and executives, is held on the last Tuesday of each month at The Grand Room, 1521 Austin Street, Downtown Houston. *The Texas Women’s Empowerment Foundation presents “Tis the Season...an evening with Brian McKnight” sponsored by I’m Ready Productions. Thursday, December 8 @ 7:30 pm. The Grand Room, 1521 Austin Street, Downtown Houston. Proceeds will benefit the Texas Women’s Empowerment Scholarship Fund. For more information, call 832-327-0953. Tickets are available at all Ticketmaster Outlets, and Excellent Care Management. DMARS needs experienced contributing writers. Please email resume and samples to jmonet@d-mars.com.

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Advice from the Pros:

Holiday marketing on a budget Creative ways to gain new business Most small businesses dread the holidays because this is usually when sales slow down or may even come to a screeching halt. But it doesn’t have to be that way. There are several things you can do to prepare for the holidays and the coming year:

the opportunity to have 20 potential clients! To sweeten the deal, you could offer up to 20 hours of your time to the other company’s clients and put yourself in front of 20 potential clients. That’s a chance of having 20 potential new clients without having to do any selling! What if you did this with multiple companies? How would that impact your bottom line? One note of caution, make sure that the company is reputable and actually offers something of value.

How would you like a chance to have 10 or 20 new clients without having to spend a dime? Everyone likes free stuff! Give clients gifts without breaking your budget. There’s always the traditional pen and card, or you can choose to make an impression by showing creativity. Make a list of your best 20 clients. Pick out a few companies (noncompetitors, of course) that you know would love to have 20 new clients. See what they are willing to offer your clients in return for you providing them with such a list. For instance, you may know an interior designer who may be willing to give your client a free, one-hour consultation. Print a few gift certificates and send them out to your clients as “appreciation gifts”. Then, have the interior designer call them for their free consultation. That gift certificate could be worth up to $250.00 or more. Or how about contacting a graphic designer and offering your clients an “Image Makeover”? Trust me- any designer worth their salt would jump at

Build your database during the holidays…NETWORK! There will be lots of parties and gatherings over the next few months. Accept as many invitations as you can, especially the ones from business organizations. Make sure you have adequate supplies of your business cards or other handouts in stock and a pen and a small pad and walk with them to all events. I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been to events during the holidays and when I ask for a card, I get a blank stare or, “Man, I forgot to bring my cards!” Don’t risk an opportunity! Here are some networking tips ... *Make it a goal to connect with at least 10 people and have a 10 minute conversation with each one of them. Spend more time asking questions and listening than talking. The key to effective networking at parties is to ASK QUESTIONS and GENUINELY LISTEN. Ask about their business, their plans for growth for 2006 and which kinds of clients they are looking for. Have a strategy to stay in touch via email, phone, or another events

By Debra Bann Gomes

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Neo-Soulfood hits Houston Marcus Davis’ investment wins big within the community By J. Monet Roberson

Breakfast Klub Facts Restaurant Category: Neo Soulfood. According to Davis, Neo-Soulfood is a revisit of the old days-it carries the same flavor and community as soul-food, but dispels the stereotypical thoughts that come to mind about blackowned restaurants and the service.

ntrepreneur Marcus Davis’ marketing tactics seems to be working wonderfully. His restaurant, The Breakfast Klub, is nearly filled to capacity “Capitalism promotes individualism. It promotes materialism. We’re promoting at all times, every day of the week.

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community,” Marcus Davis. Davis’ restaurant is known as the “it” place to eat in Houston. He’s won several awards, has had mentions as one of the city’s “best picks” on America however he did say that his business has had a 25% Online, the Houston Chronicle, as well as various per year increase in sales since its opening. local and national publications. And even with his nearly overnight success and But how did he do it? commendable stability, Davis does not have any “The people choose to make this restaurant what it intentions of selling his business. is. It’s just that… a choice. We work hard to de“I’ve had a few offers, but I am not interested. liver a great product and quality service. They just This business is family-owned,” he adamantly choose to come back,” Davis said. stated. “And we’re not ready to franchise yet. More growth within the company is needed before we The story of the Breakfast Klub is somewhat of a consider franchising.” success story within itself. Davis, a 20-year veteran within the restaurant industry, opened his first resDavis, along with his brothers Jerry and Anthony, taurant, the Breakfast Klub nearly four years ago. formed TBK Holdings, Inc. as a parent company of Its concept was “Neo-Soulfood”- Soulfood with the restaurat. TBK Holdings has an updated flair. The move was done with careful recently acquired its second restaurant, the Reggae planning and research, very limited funds, and stra- Hut, and is currently making changes to its operategic management. tion. “I drained all of my savings, and had a close in“We’re mixing the Caribbean flavor with our vestor, Mr. O, who really believed in the plan,” he style of operation. We have the restaurant’s original said. “We started with only a monetary fraction of chefs- Andrew Walker and Henry Thomas. People what it takes to open a restaurant, but will really enjoy this,” he said. used the proceeds to reinvest in the business to build up a working capital. Its been a non-stop reinvestWith the newly acquired Reggae Hut, along with ment into the store since then.” Breakfast Klub, Davis looks to bring a true sense of community to his patrons. TBK regularly sponsors And Davis’ meaning of reinvestment carries only community events to show its appreciation. a fraction of advertising dollars. “Capitalism promotes individualism. It promotes “Most of my advertising comes from word-of- materialism. We’re promoting community, with mouth. It’s the best form of advertising. We spent the best in service and product, in a relaxing atmothe majority of, what other companies would spend sphere. Soul is the mentality we had back in the day. in advertising, on our employees, so we can give We’re bringing it back.” great customer service so each person that comes in is a commercial.” Davis also co-hosts a political/community discusDavis did not disclose last year’s profits, sion radio show with Ada Edwards on Sundays 6-9 a.m. on 97.9 KBXX.

Best SellersFish and Grits, Wings and Waffles RecipesCreated by Davis, his father, and Mr. O. Employees15. Six are cooks. Davis says the name is a play on the movie The Breakfast Club. “Its symbolic of what we were trying to achieve. Club normally means you’re included. Be included, be a part of us and what we’re trying to do.” The Breakfast Klub is located in Mid/Downtown Houston at 3711 Travis.

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Advice from the Pros:

Key elements for start-up success By Steve Folmar There are key habits you must develop if you want to become a successful entrepreneur in today’s competitive society. The absence of any one of these habits can be costly, if not fatal, to your business. When you become competent and capable in each of these areas, you’ll be able to accomplish extraordinary results, far faster and easier than your competitors. 1. Plan ahead. There’s a “Six P” acronym that reads, “Proper prior planning prevents poor performance.” To become a better planner, develop the habit of asking and answering the following questions: • What exactly is my product or service? • Who exactly is my customer? • Why does my customer buy? • What does my customer consider value? • What is it that makes my product or service superior to that of any of my competitors? • Why is it that my prospective customer does not buy? • Why does my prospective customer buy from my competitor? • What value does he or she perceive in buying from my competitor? • How can I offset that perception and get my competitor’s customers to buy from me? • What one thing must my customer be convinced of to buy from me, rather than from someone else?

Once you’ve asked and answered these questions, the next stage of planning is to set specific targets for sales and profitability. You must determine the exact people, money, advertising, marketing, distribution, administration and service people and facilities you’ll require in order to achieve your goals. The more thoroughly you plan out each stage of your business activities, before you begin, the greater the probability will be that you’ll succeed once you commence operations. 2. Get organized before you get started. Once you’ve developed a complete plan for your business, you must then organize the people and resources you need before you begin--and you must make this a habit before the start of any new project you launch. In the military, there is a saying: “Amateurs talk strategy, but professionals talk logistics.” It’s absolutely essential that you determine every ingredient you’ll need before you begin business operations and then bring them together so that they’re ready to go when you open your doors or begin your project. The failure to provide even one important ingredient in advance can lead to the failure of the entire enterprise. 3. Find the right people. Fully 95 percent of your success as an entrepreneur will be determined by the quality of the people you recruit to work for you. The fact is, the best companies have the best people. The second-best companies have the second-best people.

The third-best companies have average or mediocre people--and they’re on their way out of business. 4. Learn how to delegate. You must develop the ability to delegate the right task, to the right person, in the right way. The inability to delegate effectively can be the cause of failure or underperformance of the individual, and even bring about failure of your business. When people start in business, they usually do everything themselves. As they grow and expand, their job becomes too large for one person, so they hire someone to do a part of it. If they’re not smart, however, they try to retain control of the task, and they never fully hand over both authority and responsibility to the other person--a situation that’s sure to lead to failure. 5. Inspect what you expect. Once you’ve delegated a task to the right person in the right way, it’s essential that you monitor the performance of the task, and make sure that it’s done on schedule and to the required level of quality. You’re still responsible for the ultimate results of the delegated tasks, so set up a system to monitor the tasks you delegate and make sure they’re being done as agreed on. Continued on page 23

I’m not saying a child should be taught that a job is not important, but they should be greatly encouraged to become leaders- and think in the entrepreneurial sense of one. Expose your children to as much as you possibly can. Through travel, books, movies, or games, make an educational impact on your children. Enrich their lives! In case you didn’t notice, there’s another language in town. Get your kids to the Spanish language lab, now!

Marlon’s Corner Create a Business Owner If you love children, you’ll raise them to think like an entrepreneur. You’ll show them that business owners have the freedom of creating their own schedules, surroundings, and overall well-being. Teaching them the advantages of ownership should be placed in front of showing them how to get a job. Retirement is Jurassic. I honestly don’t believe there’s a major in college that teaches business ownership. There are courses that help along the way and training programs, but no specific college major. If your child enjoys taking pictures, teach them how to own a photography company. If they enjoy doing hair, show them how to own a chain of hair salons.

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If you are not equipped to teach your child about being an entrepreneur, see which programs are offered in their school, or summer camp. Better yet, ask someone to mentor them that is an entrepreneur. Similar to that of an athlete’s, the mentality of an entrepreneur must be conditioned, trained. Roy Oswalt, one of the Houston Astros top pitchers once said, “If it were not for my father taking time to play catch with me every day, I would not have the skills I have today”. He further stated, “The neighbors thought my dad was crazy spending so much of his time on me”. Since this is the Holiday Season, keep in mind that the best gifts you can give your child are gifts they can learn from. And while business ownership is not for everyone, exposing your child to the possibility is well worth the effort.


Advice from the Pros:

Insurance ChangesIs your business covered? Business Profile: S. Allen & Allen Insurance Services Specialty: Commercial Insurance, Property liability, Workers’ Compensation Established: 1994 by Stephen Allen as an independent agency. Sales 2004- Wrote in excess of $8 million in premiums Mr. Allen says that a lot of businesses are underinsured because many insurance companies are now excluding wind and hurricane coverage in Harris, Brazoria, and Fort Bend Counties. Mr. Allen writesThe insurance industry is fairly stable, but with recent weather catastrophes, there will be a lot of price increases in 2006. The most affected will be cities along the Gulf Coast, as rates will be hiked to pick up the tab for the most costly storms in history with Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and Wanda. Homeowners and business owners can expect their property premiums to rise due to the ‘wind’ exposure. In the past, Harris County has enjoyed the luxury of not having to worry too much about the wind exposure. But like our neighboring 1st Tier counties of Galveston and Brazoria, folks in Harris county can expect their insurance companies to ‘Exclude” wind on their policies as well. What you should do if wind is excluded on your policy is first contact your agent and ask him to explain your options. Options may be limited to three choices: 1. Purchase wind coverage from the Texas Windstorm Association 2. Find out if your company can provide wind coverage at a higher premium or higher deductible 3. Take a chance and do not obtain wind coverage at all. At any cost, it is better to be safe than sorry. To keep tabs on your coverage, always stay in touch with your agent. Remember, he works for you and not for the company. Stephen Allen



Advice from the Pros:

Autumn Osborne on Small Business Loans Oftentimes Small Business owners have the basics to start a business, but they lack adequate working capital. Begin the New Year with Washington Mutual’s Small Business SBA loan. What are the credit parameters for Washington Mutual’s SBAExpress product? Similar to our conventional financing, Washington Mutual looks at personal credit history, business credit, business type, and debt/service ratio to name a few. What types of SBA loans does Washington Mutual offer? Business Term Loan, Business Line of Credit, and the Business Real Estate Loan. Our business loans not only allow start-ups an opportunity to establish business credit; but they also allow business owners an opportunity to receive financing that they would not qualify for under conventional lending. Are there any fees associated with the referenced loans? Yes. Typically you will find a Package fee and a Guarantee fee. We are very competitive with other SBA lenders and the same fees are applicable. However, the bank does not profit on the fees. These fees are collected by the SBA directly. With our Business Line of Credit, we can roll the Guarantee fee into the loan amount, as long as there is an initial draw. Additional information: Our business term loan allows ease of payment when financing working capital and/or equipment/ machinery. We offer terms up to seven years for working capital and 10 years for equipment/machinery. The business owner can focus on building the business when their payment options extend beyond five years. Our Business Line of Credit does not have an annual fee and has a three-year draw period. Once the customer has successfully maintained the Business Line of Credit through SBA, the line will be termed the fourth year. This allows the business owner an opportunity to apply for credit under conventional lending standards. Our real estate loan allows the business owner the ability to occupy 60% of the property versus 75%. The owner must have plans to occupy 100% of the property within 10 years. Lastly, with our Real Estate loan we offer a 20-year term with a 20-year amortization.

Finish 2005 the smart wayThese year-end Tax tips can save thousands By G. L. Willis

Tax season is still several months away, but actions you take in the next six weeks can have a lot of impact on your bill come April. Don’t fall into the AMT trapThe Alternate Minimum Tax is a separate tax system. It has its own set of rates and its own rules for deductions, which usually are less generous than the regular ones. And more and more people are falling prey to this tax. AMT exemptions and tax brackets are not adjusted for inflation, so if your income has increased within the past year you may fall into the AMT zone. There isn’t much that you can do, unfortunately, if you do qualify, but you can be aware of this vulnerability and plan how you can pay for it. To find out if you’re going to qualify, get form number 6251 and make sure that you’re in the clear, advises Donna LeValley of J.K. Lasser Your Income Tax. While there is no specific trigger for this tax, if you pay high state and local taxes or you have a lot of personal exemptions or a high mortgage interest, you’ll want to tread more carefully. It is estimated that by the end of 2010, 30 million people will be stuck paying the AMT. Count your Katrina deductions If you housed an evacuee after Katrina, you are eligible to get a $500 per person exemption up to $2,000 as long as you were a host for at least 60 days. If you used a car or a boat to help out in distributing supplies or disaster relief, you’ll be able to get increased mileage deduction. Right now you can deduct $.34 a mile instead of the usual $.15. If you were affected by Katrina, casualty losses that were not reimbursed by insurance or the Federal Emergency Management Association are fully deductible on either your 2004 returns or your 2005 returns. In addition, you’ll be able to use your 2004 income levels to qualify for child tax credit and earned income tax credit. Take advantage of tax-exempt accounts Pay attention to your employers’ open-enrollment periods. Take advantage of flexible spending accounts which will let you put pre-tax money for medical expenses including dental bills, over the counter medicine expenses or any other medical expense. Using these accounts you will save $.30 on the dollar and there is no set federal limit. If you have children or older parents that you need to take care of, think about investing in a dependant care account. The maximum you can contribute is $5,000. You can use this pre-tax money for summer programs, babysitting services or caretaker help. You won’t pay federal or social security taxes on this money, which is a better deal than a deduction. Continued on pg. 23

Visit your local Washington Mutual Financial Center for more infomation or to see if you qualify for conventional financing or a SBA loan.

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Aztec Facility Services Reflecting the entrepreneurial spirit that has made Houston great, Sherra Aguirre founded Aztec Facility Services in 1981. Whenever the words, “helping people” is mentioned, you have to include the name Sherra Aguirre. Since its inception twenty five years ago, Aztec has grown to encompass over 1,000 employees in four states, and currently manages cleaning and other support service operations for over 17 million square feet of space across Texas and the United States. Aztec Facility Services provides an array of quality facility maintenance and support services for corporate, industrial, and government clients, and strives to provide leadership in America’s building services industry by following the principles of continuous quality improvement, developing its culturally diverse workforce, and maintaining a quality work environment for every customer. Hats off to Sherra Aguirre and Aztec Facilty Services. Providing a steady source of income for over 1,000 people.



Reaching the Pinnacle Business owners are honored at the 11th Annual Pinnacle Awards By J. Monet Roberson

The Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce and Washington Mutual hosted the 11th Annual Pinnacle Awards ceremony in late October to recognize some of the city’s most accomplished business leaders. The event, which was held at The Houston Club, attracted a large number of business owners, politicians, and many prominent figures. “The Pinnacle Awards were formed to honor African American business people that truly excel- within their business, as well as within the community,” said Kenny Efunpo, president of the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce. This year’s award winners are Borris Miles, Miles Insurance Agency; Jarmese Morris, A.W. EMS, Inc.; Dr. Wanda Mott, The Women’s Specialists of Houston; and Keith J. Davis Sr., D-MARS Marketing. Dr. Mott founded the Houston Women’s Obstetrical and Gynecological Associates nearly 23 years ago. According to her bio, “her main focus has always been providing uncompromising and cutting edge health care to women of all ages.” Her company merged with Women’s Specialists, and currently covers a 20,000 square foot floor in St. Luke’s Medical Tower. Morris, whose business finished 2004 in excess of $1 million, paints a true example of hard work and determination. In her bio, it states that Morris overcame her obstacles of being a minority in a majority male-dominated business by setting a goal, building valuable relationships, being determined, and staying focused. As with Morris’ determination led to her business’ success, so did Miles’. Considering that he originally started his company from his garage apartment nearly nine years ago, Miles has accomplished great business success. Last year his company wrote $9 million in premiums, while he’s expecting this year to hit a whooping $14 million.

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“The biggest challenge that I had to overcome with my company was to make sure that I had the right personnel. Qualified personnel,” he said. “My industry is in constant change. It changes everyday. Its important to have people who are loyal, dedicated, and those who make sure that the client is well taken care of.”


Borris Miles

D’Artagnan Bebel

Earl B. Loggins

Davis stated that he was extremely honored to have received the Pinnacle Award. “The significance of the award’s meaning, and being chosen out of so many other people is a privilege,” he said. However, after seven years of hard work, Davis said that he has not yet reached his personal pinnacle. “I want my company to be the one to help unite minority businesses, so we can benefit each other and build an economic power within the community.” With a focus on both community involvement as well as the individual’s entrepreneurial strength, The Pinnacle Awards’ status weighs of great importance amongst Houston’s business leaders. Efunpo believes that his organization’s formation of the Pinnacle Awards holds a value not only to the recipient, but towards the community as a whole.

Earl B. Loggins, Deavra Daughtry & Sharon Phillips

Val Thompson, Jarmese Morris

Isaiah Carey, Earl B. Loggins, Deavra Daughtry, & Darian Ward

Marie Hallinan

“Its very important to encourage entrepreneurship so that the people that come behind you can know that these things are attainable. There’s an old saying that I like to use,” he continued, “If there’s no one to beat your drum, you beat it yourself.” The organization, which was originally formed in 1935 as the Negro Chamber of Commerce, changed its name to the Houston Citizens Chamber of Commerce during the Civil Rights Era. Its main purpose was to assist, promote and recognize African American businesses, as its legacy continues to this day. The Chamber also awards college scholarships for area minority students.

Award recipients are pictured l-r: Dr. Wanda Mott, Keith J. Davis Sr., Jarmese Morris and Borris Miles

Interested in being considered for a Pinnacle? According to Efunpo, surveys are dispersed throughout the general population in regards to minority owned businesses. From that point, the Pinnacle Awards Committee selects 10 nominees for the award. From the 10, only four actually receive the prestigious award. Noting its extensive process, Efunpo says the guidelines are as follows: To qualify for a Pinnacle Award, businesses have to be for-profit, at least 51% African-American owned, three year minimum establishment, with annual revenues in excess of $1 million, located within the Greater Houston Metropolitan area. If your company meets those qualifications, you should consider contacting the Houston Citizen’s Chamber of Commerce for more information at 713-522-9745.

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Avoiding holiday distractions

D-MARS’ December Book Recommendations:

Tips for Online Learners By Carrie M. Dixon

Sister CEO: The Black Woman’s Guide to Starting Your Own Business by Cheryl Broussard (Penguin)

With the holiday season rapidly approaching, your Things to Do and New Year’s Resolutions lists are no doubt growing longer by the minute. If you are currently an online learner, the following tips will help you survive the holiday season: Set and stick to a schedule It is easy to become distracted by family, employment, and other matters. Do not lose focus of your studies. Make a schedule to “attend” class by reserving times that won’t allow for distraction. Establishing a routine makes it more likely that the schedule will be maintained.

What Makes The Great Great by Dennis Kimbro (Main Street Books)

Carrie Dixon

Log in to your online classroom frequently Many online courses require a minimum number weekly participation hours. Holiday festivities can make it tempting to neglect your class participation. Students who frequently log-in to the class are less likely to fall behind and more likely to meet participation requirements. Use your time wisely Guard your time as you would your holiday shopping budget, don’t allow an hour of your day to be squandered. While the turkey is baking, review your class notes. Waiting in line to mail holiday cards or ship gifts? Why not use this time to brainstorm ideas for the upcoming assignment. Stuck in the airport waiting for a flight? Use this time to get ahead on class assignments. Make the most out of all your downtime! (Continued on page 23)

Title Company 101: The process of the title company By Shirlene Clincy Even with the recent real-estate boom, it is unfortunate that many people do not understand the importance of the title industry as it relates to the field. A title company is a third party hired by the consumer, realtor, or lender to facilitate the real estate closing process and to issue insurance on the real estate involved. Title companies begin their work by first conducting an actual title search, gathering information from all recorded documents that cover the history of the property. The information is then examined for authenticity, accuracy, and is checked for proper continuity in the chain of title of the property. After such, the title insurance commitment is issued showing the condition of the title, the exceptions that appear in the policy, the curative work that needs to be accomplished prior to policy issuance, and the documents that are needed to create the estate that is to be insured. When the title commitment is issued, work begins on all matters found during the title search that must be addressed prior to the loan closing. This will includes liens or judgments filed against the property and/or the owner or prospective buyer. Many people are unaware that in addition to the title search, a search is also done on their civil and financial background. They are checked for liens, judgments-(IRS, The Attorney General, Mechanic’s and Materialman’s liens, property tax entities, homeowner associations or any entity having filed an abstract of judgment against the buyer) or active bankruptcies.

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How to Win Friends and Influence People by Dale Carnegie (Carnegie) Getting Things Done by David Allen (Penguin) Secrets of the Millionaire Mind: Mastering the Inner Game of Wealth by T. Harv Eker (Collins)

These matters must be satisfied prior to closing for title insurance to be issued on the property. All liens must be satisfied prior to closing because any unpaid lien filed prior to the proposed transaction (1) jeopardizes the new lenders lien position (they ALWAYS want to be in first lien position) and (2) jeopardizes the owner from having clear or “good” title. After the work is completed, the transaction is set for closing. The Escrow Officer/Closer is coordinates with the buyer, seller, lender and Realtor and follows the instructions in the Contract of Sale and the lender’s closing instructions. Oftentimes they also secure the surveys, legal documentations, lien payoffs, and tax information. After the closing, when all documents have been properly executed and all legal documents are filed with the appropriate county recorder, the title company will then disburse all funds. Finally, the title insurance policies can be issued. Some may still ask, “What does it mean for me to have a title insurance policy?” In plain english, this means that in the event that the insured owner of an interest in the insured property suffers a monetary loss, due to a title defect or lien created prior to the effective date of the policy that is not excluded as an exception to the policy, the Title Insurance Company will defend the insured against a lawsuit attacking the title or reimburse the insured for the actual monetary loss incurred, up to the amount of the policy. The value of the industry to the public cannot be overstated. There are very, very, few other businesses that guarantees, validates and indemnifies the work of as many people and functions for one premium as does the title insurance industry. One should never purchase real estate without it. If you have any questions call the Title Pro Shirlene Clincy @ 713-784-0006



Connecting for a cause NAABA brings more economic power to black businesses By J. Monet Roberson

Unite and Prosper. That strategy has been the catalyst behind some of America’s most successful corporations. It’s the same strategy that Dr. Kevin Simms hopes to bring towards the country’s black businesses with his formation of the National African American Business Alliance. Since the NAABA’s formation three months ago, the member list has already grown nationally to almost one thousand business owners, political figures and corporate executives. His goal is to have a national network of five thousand members within the next three months. Dr. Simms says that by having “strength in numbers”, along with the relevant resources, his organization will become a national source for economic empowerment for black businesses. His network of financial institutions, grant writers, media and political figures, and diverse lists of business owners greatly contributes towards his goal. “Our main objective is to keep the black dollar in black businesses, where it has not been for quite

NAABA Founder Dr. Kevin Simms (l) is pictured with Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee (c), and NAABA President Daniel Mc Kinney (r).

some time. We need a chapter in every city. Our goal is to grow to such a large scale to which we can elect politicians that have our best interests at hand,” Dr. Simms said. Another objective for the organization is to ensure that African American businesses gain consideration for all governmental contracts. In early November, NAABA, with the assistance of Congresswoman Sheila Jackson-Lee, met with FEMA and various governmental officials to ensure that black businesses would be seriously considered for more Katrina contracts. The current concern is that non-minority businesses that have close government ties will receive most of the $100 billion in contracts to rebuild New Orleans, whereas African American business owners, (whose local business generate in excess of $800 million annually), will have a harder time gaining those same contracts. Dr. Simms says that NAABA’s goal is to ensure that black businesses are given the same opportunities for consideration. In addition, he says that gaining African American contracts could create jobs which could bring many of the city’s displaced residents back home. Supporters of the Alliance are optimistic about its cause. “Black businesses really need to focus on working together to gain independence,” Karen Tillman of the New Orleans Chamber of Commerce said. “Having this kind of alliance on a grand scale can work wonders for this country.” To learn more about the National African American Business Alliance or to join, call 713-838-9778 or visit www.NAABA.net.

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Success doesn’t come without sacrificeHelping the poor enriches our own lives By Deacon Ramone Harper The focus of this edition is People Helping People, and I think respect is due to Mr. D-Mars for stepping out on faith to put out a journal that helps entrepreneurs and small businesses go to the next level in business.

Deacon Harper’s suggestions on how your For donations, contact the church at organization can assist those in need: (713) 271-7217. As part of their Westwood community Make a Wish Foundation at www.wish.org redevelpoment efforts, Higher Dimension Contact your local Salvation Army.

And that leads me directly into my focus for this article. Proverbs 19:17, states that “He who gives to the poor lends to the Lord and he will reward him for what he has done.”

Church is adopting the Bayou West Apartment Complex. The church will provide Holiday dinners (turkeys, etc.) as well as coats and shoes for the children.

Let me begin by first defining who the poor is. Webster’s has multiple definitionsone lacking in material possessions, having little or no means to support oneself; needy, impoverished, or lacking in some quality or thing. But the one I choose to use for this article is defined as lacking in excellence or worth, below average, or bad. Now that we have defined the meaning of the word poor, who really are the poor in this specific context as it relates to business? Each and every reader of this journal is poor in some way, as no one is perfect when it comes to business. This means that we may either lack in an area of our businesses; we may lack excellence in our companies; and at times we may operate at a below-average level within our businesses. This journal is a source of empowerment to all business owners. The Word of God says that giving to the poor is like lending to the Lord. Like my spiritual father (Pastor J of Higher D) says, “When have you ever known God to be in debt? Since he owns the entire world and is sovereign, why would he have to be in debt to man? But if he did, then we know that is a guaranteed debt that will never go into default and will always be back with interest.” Psalms 37:23 says, “I have never seen the righteous forsaken nor his seed begging bread.” This mean if I help poor people, then God shall make sure I will never go without, nor will my children. Another scripture that deals with reaping and sowing: 2 Corinthians 9:6 paraphrased says that when you sow good seeds, God will make his grace abound to you so that you lack nothing and he will make you rich so you can continue to bless others. In conclusion, I’m saying that as entrepreneurs we must be concerned about helping people- especially the poor. Find ways that your company can help people within your community. Empower your staff and customers with knowledge and a spirit of excellence. Do business as unto the Lord, and he will repay you for your acts.

Inspire cafe dot com When the going gets tough, get inspired! By J. Monet Roberson My financial sense of security is always being tested- I’m a small-business owner. At 18, I started an employment screening companyProfiles, Etc., whose clients include corporations such as Holiday Inn and Tyco Valves. After a three-year streak of nearly six figure profits, I lost my biggest client, a staffing agency, and my company’s success has dwindled to a mere fraction of its highest peak. At 21, I opened Mode, an Atlanta boutique, then a second in Houma, Louisiana a year later. The first Mode was a joint partnership. Mode #1 went out of business after two years of wonderful profits. I wasn’t aware of the split until I went into the store and saw that it had been cleared out, along with most of the bank account. I guess its safe to assume that my partner wanted out. Mode #2 is still in operation- Thank goodness for Sole Prop! Earlier this year, I formed a maid service, Clean Today, in Houston. In the service business, every attempt is made to ensure that everyone is satisfied- from the clients to the maids- which means that in this business I’m dealing with issues (serious issues) every single day. God has truly blessed me. He’s tested me, but yet, he’s always blessed me. And as you’ve seen, when the well runs dry, a sudden wave of inspiration hits me to start up a new business. According to the Small Business Administration, each year over 550,000 new businesses are formed within the U.S. Four out

of five businesses won’t last five years. Only 40% make it to their fifth year. All businesses are a risk. Your business will either succeed or fail. The important thing to always remember is that it is just that- a business. If your business takes off, congratulations! Don’t allow your ego to take off with it. Stay grounded, so you’ll always be able to see what’s above you. Foresight allows room to detect error, which also allows you to achieve higher levels. And if your business hits rock bottom, it does not mean that you’ve hit rock bottom. It doesn’t mean that your self worth has been devalued as a result of a business failure. It means that you should have learned a lesson, and mastering that lesson won’t allow failure to resurface on those terms. Either regroup and rebuild, or start a new one! Entrepreneurship is a wonderful thing, especially within our society, and I believe that everyone has the capability to become wealthy and successful business owners. Capability...Yes. Inspiration, motivation, and guts... No. Education and hard work are only a fraction of what it takes to succeed in business. Perseverance, wisdom, and faith are what really gets things in place. Get motivated and inspired. Stay inspired. Learn new depths of thinking, and shake off the negative energy. Get resources, learn from the pros, and share your stories and thoughts. Visit my new website, inpirecafe.com, and let me know what you think.

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Holiday Marketing On a Budget (continued from page 6 ) they might be interested in. *Follow up with your new contact after the party, if appropriate. Even if you don’t make an instant business connection, you would have sowed some seeds for the future. 3. Maintain your existing client base. Call and personally thank your clients or at least the 20% of your clients that send you the most business during the year. Ask them what you could do to improve your service next year. As a bonus, mail or email them a dated coupon or special deal. Try to extend the date to at least the end of January to give them some time to use it. The key is to show them that you genuinely appreciate their business. 4. Plan for 2006… Analyze! Sit down at your computer and track your sales for the last two years and figure out what times of the year you are more busy than others and why. Is your business seasonal? Identify and lever-

age seasonal cycles. Each business has a natural rhythm, discover yours! Analyze your business by answering the following questions: 1) Do my customers buy over a long term period or just once? 2) How many products does my customer buy? 3) How long does the average customer stay with me? 4) How much money does the average customer spend with me? 5) What percentage is my profit? 6) How much money do I make every month and does it change? In general, the shorter the cycle, the more frequently you need to market to attract new customers. The less money you make per customer, the more customers you need. You have all the information you need at your fingertips. You can even do a spreadsheet listing each customer on the left and when and how much they

purchase during the year, so you can discover how your monthly income changes. Information is key, and each business is different. Maximize 2006 by planning ahead. 5. Last, but not least, give, give, give of your time. You have expertise in some areas. Offer to teach a free class or volunteer some time at your favorite non-profit organization or church. This may not bring you a flood of clients, but it’s great for the spirit. It also doesn’t hurt to have a pocketful of business cards. Happy Holidays! Debra Bann Gomes is president of Digi Marketing. She has over 18 years experience bringing graphic design services to her many clients. She counsels entrepreneurs, small businesses and nonprofits on image enhancement and marketing solutions.

Start up Success (continued from page 8) 6. Set specific, measurable standards and score cards for the results that you require. What gets measured gets done, and you have to set specific timelines and deadlines to make sure you “make your numbers” on schedule. Everyone who’s expected to carry out a task must know with complete clarity the targets that he or she is aiming at, how successful performance will be measured, and when the expected results are due.

7. Develop the determination to win. To succeed greatly in business, and to become a self-made millionaire, there are additional habits you need to develop. One of these habits is the determination to win, to succeed, to outperform your competition and to ultimately be successful. This competitive instinct and determination to win in the face of any obstacle or difficulty is a chief motivating power that drives entrepreneurs and eventually assures successful careers.

Tax Tips (Continued from page 11) 4. Deduct your home-office Nearly a third of the U.S. workforce regularly worked at home in 2004, according estimates from In-Stat/MDR. Yet, come tax time, less than a quarter of these workers are likely to claim home office deductions. Suffice it to say, the IRS’s criteria for this deduction is quite strict. This is because it was the most abused areas of the tax code before 1970 says CPA Ron Hegt. But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try to get this deduction. You will qualify if you work for yourself and use your home office exclusively for business purposes. If you work for a company, you can claim the deduction if it’s in the convenience of your employer. So, if you’ve been encouraged to work from home in order to save the company some money, you have

a case, but if working from home was your idea, then forget it. And just because you don’t qualify for the homeoffice deduction, doesn’t mean you can’t claim any expenses associated with a home-based business. Office supplies, the cost of bringing a second telephone line, putting in a fax line, home mortgage interest and real estate taxes is allowed as an itemized deduction on your tax return even if you can’t take a home office deduction according to CCH Tax and Accounting. You can get a sense of what the deduction may be worth to you by using an online home deduction calculator at http://www.toolkit.cch.com/text/P07_ 2700.asp 5. Chill out on tax reform proposal You’ve probably heard already about proposals by

the President’s tax-reform panel will make owning a home may less tax-friendly. The plan, which was introduced last week, would substantially reduce mortgage-interest and propertytax exemptions. The reform would specify a tax credit. State and local property taxes would no longer be deductible. Neither would interest on second homes or home-equity loans. The mortgage-interest exemption is among the tax code’s most unfair features, but you don’t have to worry just yet. You will still be able to deduct your mortgage interest this year. In fact, the proposals have been met with largely negative reviews there has been no endorsement from the administration.

Modern technology makes it easier for family life and the pursuit of education to peacefully coexist. Bring a laptop, and make sure your lodging has a reliable Internet connection. This makes it easier to stick to your routine of working on assignments, and interacting with the class without missing any of the family fun.

dedication, the responsibilities of online learning will not overshadow the joy of the holiday season. The choice of pursuing your education is a commitment that is well worth the sacrifice. The sense of accomplishment will last long after that new electronic gadget you had to have is gone, as education is the gift that keeps on giving!

Online Learning Tips (continued from page 23) Juggling holiday tasks is no easy feat. Simultaneously managing holiday tasks with online learning can be demanding. Keep track of commitments and deadlines by using an organizer. Use an electronic calendar device to preview the week ahead as not to overlook any important dates. Consider your commitments when planning to travel

With a little bit of planning and a whole lot of

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