d-mars.com Business Journal 39

Mar. 20 - Apr. 20 2010

Inspire, Inform & Educate

39

Edition

Exceeding Limits & Expectations

INSIDE

How to Acheive Financial Freedom in 2010

By Christina R. Grochett Tips for planning your future in 2010.

PAGE 7

AIU Offers Options for Adults Going Back to School

By Steve Malutich The American InterContinental University (AIU) Houston campus serves as one of many schools that offer industry-current degree programs to career-focused professionals.

PAGE 18

“The quality of a leader is reflected in the standards they set for themselves.”

– Ray Kroc MR. D-MARS & Adam Omar CONGRATULATIONS 2010 BRENDA J. DAVIS COMMUNITY AWARD RECIPIENT

Making it on one income Top money saving tips for families who find themselves facing one income, whether it’s by necessity or choice.

PAGE 22

Marcus Roland Central Care Community Health Care

Sheila Sweeny After 6 Shoe Lounge

Steve Malutich American Intercontinental University

Should your business be on Facebook Even if members have no intention of buying anything on Facebook, the relationships you establish and community you build there can benefit your business in countless ways.

PAGE 42

Karen E. Jackson See pg. 6

Pastor Smedley The Promise Church

Pastor Remus E. & Mia K. Wright Fountain of Praise

Pastor Perry Word of Restoration

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2.

Publisher’s Message

Keith J. Davis, Sr. SR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Sr. JR. PUBLISHER Keith J. Davis, Jr. VICE PRESIDENT Kevin Davis EDITING CONSULTANT ReShonda Tate-Billingsley Operations Coordinator Heather Haukaas ACCOUNTING MANAGER Eugenie Doualla SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Alyssa Rachelle Mike Jones Lucas Keizer PHOTOGRAPHY Leon Galbreath

I’m a man who knows no limits. Anyone who knows me knows that about me. I’m a firm believer that an obstacle is just a stepping-stone to take you to the next level. But there’s an art to exceeding limits and expectations.

First and foremost, it’s a mindset. You have to believe in yourself – even when others don’t, even when the odds are stacked against you. This philosophy applies in business as well. One of the secrets to being the kind of business that people naturally talk about is to consistently exceed your customer’s expectations. Sounds like a simple idea, right? Well, unfortunately, it’s one business men and women often forget.

That’s why we’re dedicating this issue to helping you exceed limitations and expectations – in every area that can help your business, as well as your personal endeavors. I’m confident that this edition will arm you with the necessary tools to help you overcome any obstacles in your path.

In this issue, you’ll hear from experts that will tell you everything you need to know to exceed limitations placed on you, by yourself and by others. This issue is stock full of news you can use and it is my hope that you will pass the word and the magazine.

As always, please support our advertisers. It’s because of them that we’re able to keep educating, informing and enlightening you at no cost. Your support is the best way of saying thanks.

CONTENTS Exceeding Limits and Expectations………………....................................… 5

MARKETING CONSULTANTS Johnny Ray Davis, Jr.

Creating a Network of Support for Breast Cancer Awareness….............… 6

MULTIMEDIA DIRECTOR Andrea Hennekes

Beyond the Scope of your eyes………...................................................….. 8

LAYOUT & GRAPHIC DESIGNERS Ghuzzala Malik (Faith) Myron Davis DISTRIBUTION Booker T. Davis, Jr. Rockie Hayden CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Heather Haukaas Christina R. Grochett Craig Anthony Nicholas Noel Pinnock April Davis T.Q. Doyle Steve Malutich Justina Chen Diedria B. Joseph Elvia Lynne Valdez Alyssa Rachelle Carla Lane Keith J. Davis, Jr. Kai Ajala Dupe Dr. D. L. Jones Dr. Olufunke Odetunde Victor Walker Elizabeth Pope

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How to Achieve Financial Freedom in 2010……………............................... 7 Tough job interview questions for tough times……..................................… 10 What is a Federally Qualified Health Center…………….........................….. 15 Exceeding Limits and Expectations……………………......................……... 17 AIU offers options for adults going back to school……............................... 18 Shattering your Glass Ceiling…………………………….....................…..…..19 Making it on one income………………………………………............…….… 22 Increase in Teen Entrepreneurship……………………………....................… 29 Only Your Expectation Matters……………………………….....................…. 30 Growing at the Speed of Thought……………………………….................... 31 The Secret to Optimistic Thinking………………………………..............…... 32 Colon Cancer…………………………………………………………..........…... 34 Should your business be on Facebook?...................................................... 42 Not the same old tax return – new rules for this year’s tax season........….. 43 Saving Money………………………………………………………................... 44 Inexpensive marketing……………………………………………...............….. 46

MR. D-MARS D-MARS.com Business Journal Tip of the Month “Failure lays the foundation for success!”

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7322 Southwest Fwy, Suite 806 Houston, Texas 77074 713-272-9511 . Phone 713-272-6364 . Fax 1-800-453-8752 . Toll Free www.d-mars.com 3.

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4.

Exceeding Limits and Expectations….

BY HEATHER HAUKAAS Contributing Writer

D

id you know that Henry Ford’s early businesses failed and left him broke five times before he founded the successful Ford Motor Company? Or that the founder of Walt Disney embarked on numerous failed business attempts before Disney found success? Not everyone who’s on top today got there with success after success. More often than not, those who history best remembers were faced with numerous obstacles that forced them to work harder and show more determination than others. People often make the mistake of looking at the final product without considering the process undergone to create it. If one were to meet Adam Omar, the successful owner of three businesses, he or she would be unaware of the hurdles Omar overcame to become a successful business owner.

Similar to those individuals that people see as successful today, Adam Omar endured and overcame many hardships before finding success.

Being the first entrepreneur from his family; entrepreneurship was not something Adam Omar ever considered as a career option. Growing up, he did not have someone that he looked up to personally. Instead, he enjoyed watching television and imagining what life was like for the millionaires and billionaires.

“I guess you could say that my role models were these fictional characters seen on T.V. I would watch shows like Miami Vice and imagine myself behind the steering wheel of the Ferraris’ and Lamborghinis,” Omar said.

At an early age, Omar’s passion for cars was evident; but the reality that his passion for cars would become his career was not.

In 1992, Omar enrolled in The University of Houston as a Political Science and History major. Like many college students, Omar worked his way through college to provide the necessary funding to make it in school. In 1999, at the age of 23, Omar began buying and selling one or two cars every several months and reinvesting the profits into other cars. This initial business venture resulted in the idea to open his first repair shop with a high school friend. Adam quickly learned that starting his own business from the ground up was more difficult than buying one car, fixing it up, and selling it. He was confronted with the struggles and stipMar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

ulations every first-time business owner must endure: lack of working capital, dealing with employees, regulations by the city, etc. For example, the same city that previously stated it was okay to start building months prior was the same city that said they made a mistake and shut his operation down.

“This was a very difficult time in my life. I had worked so hard to see what I had invested so much into come crashing down. I felt like giving up. I left school and thought, what’s next? I would have to restart from scratch. Again.”

At that moment, many people would have done exactly what Omar contemplated- giving up! When one has the driven spirit and competitive attitude that Adam Omar was born with, one knows that defeat is not an option.

Defeated, Omar was not; instead he started over from scratch more determined than ever before to succeed.

Adam Omar / President

After working through many long days for very little pay, perseverance and dedication began to pay off. Omar successfully re-opened his repair shop and re-enrolled in the University of Houston. It was not long before he completed his Bachelor of Science in Political Science as well as a Bachelor of Arts in History. Success is only something that can be determined by each individual’s scale of measurement. According to Adam, he had been successful but there was so much more he wanted to accomplish.

In the summer of 2000, he bought his first Tow Truck. Today, his companies proudly operate over 30 tow trucks that serve Southwest and Downtown Houston as well as many of the cities in Fort Bend, including Sugar Land, Missouri City, and Stafford. The hard work continued to pay off when Omar was able to purchase a two-acre lot, adjacent to the location he had been renting for seven years, and build a state-of-the-art facility. This facility went online in the beginning of 2008. www.

Today, the young man who used his passion for cars to supplement his income, while attending school, successfully operates many businesses- Elite Collision Center, Area 5 Auto Sales and Repair, Westside Recycling & Auto Salvage, and two police impound lots located in downtown Houston and Southwest Houston.

Omar understands the importance of giving back. He was able to do this in the summer of 2008 when he broke ground on a 15-acre state of the art Green Automotive and Metal recycling facility in Sugar Land, the first of its kind in Fort Bend County.

“It is very important to give back. I am fortunate enough to utilize my resources and passion to assist in preserving our environment. One of the contributing factors to opening Westside Recycling & Auto Salvage was the need for more people to be aware of going green in an effort to protect our environment.”

Westside Recycling & Auto Salvage recycles hundreds and thousands of automobiles. Salvaging automobiles plays directly into the philosophy of thinking green. Salvage yards find a use for every last piece of metal on automobiles that are determined to be useless. In a world where the population is increasing at an alarming rate and the resources are depleting, Westside is definitely acting proactively.

At the tender age of 35, what are the keys to remaining successful in business? Omar says, “First and foremost- time management! The most important aspect of my day is managing my time and staying focused.

I am always thinking and consistently staying ahead of the curve.

There are many times when I have had to sacrifice between leisure and personal time to remain productive. Second,

I have great employees. Every business owner needs to understand that the employs are the ones that portray the image of the owners. As an owner it is impossible for you to be everywhere all the time but when you have great spokespeople who share your values it makes all the difference in a business. In all of the operations that I run our compassion for the customer is most important.

Next to a person’s home, their vehicle is their second most treasured possession.

We understand this and do everything in our power to pay attention to every single detail of our customers needs. We treat them how we would like someone to treat us if one of our most treasured possessions was in need of repairs.”

Adam Omar’s passion for cars and ambitiousness has allowed him to determine his own set of limits and expectations.

“The only person that can determine how far you progress or regress in any aspect of your life is yourself. When you are passionate about something and determine that no matter how trying times get giving up is not an option; you will find a way to persevere. In any business there will be good times and there will be bad times, how you react during these times determines what the product of the process will be. If you continue to do your research, work hard, and endure then the only product choice is success.”

Adam Omar is a perfect example of how one can determine their own destiny from scratch. We all have the option to mold our passions into our desired finished product or recycle what we already have into a new product if we are determined to never give up and always give back.

5.

Creating a Network of Support for Breast Cancer Awareness

2010 BRENDA J. DAVIS COMMUNITY AWARD WINNER

Karen E. Jackson Throughout the years many readers and friends of MR. D-MARS have had the opportunity to meet brother D-MARS, solicit advice from Poppa D-mars, or watch Keith Jr. grow into a distinguished young man. However, one very important part of the D-MARS family that many people never had the opportunity to become acquainted with is mama D-MARS. Mama D-MARS was the strong woman that served as the backbone for the Davis family for many years before she lost her battle to breast cancer in 1985. “I remember it like it was yesterday. I was 14 years old when she finally broke the news to us that she had been battling a disease that claims the life of many of our African American sisters every year. We often read about people who have survived or lost their battle with certain diseases but until it affects us personally we never really understand the magnitude of what they are going through. My heart goes out to the many women that are diagnosed with breast cancer daily. Although, my passion was for developing African Americans through economic development, I applaud and support those individuals who are out in the community rallying support for the fight against breast cancer” says Mr. D-MARS. One woman who has been going above and beyond to support the battle against breast cancer for African American women is Mrs. Karen Eubanks Jackson.

Mrs. Karen Eubanks Jackson is a sixteen year breast cancer survivor. During Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

her personal fight to survive breast cancer, she recognized a lack of “sisterhood” in traditional organizations, a staggering breast cancer mortality rate for African American women and limited culturally sensitive material. In 1994 she decided that she would create the support that many women needed. Jackson turned a personal challenge into an organization that provides standardized educational programs, support, empowerment, hope and financial assistance; when she founded the Sisters Network Inc (SNI).

Sisters Network Inc. is the nation’s only African American breast cancer survivorship organization that addresses the needs particular to African American women. Sisters Network®Inc. ensures that African American women diagnosed with breast cancer receive comprehensive medical care and social support.

Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face.” It can also be said that one gains strength, courage www.

and confidence in numbers. Due to Jackson’s leadership, Sisters Network®Inc. has experienced phenomenal growth resulting in over 43 survivor-run affiliate chapters, serving more than 3000 members and associate members nationwide.

Sisters Network®Inc. is the leading voice in the African American women’s fight against breast cancer. African American women now have a network they can turn to that provides an abundance of support and resources so that they no longer have to fight this battle alone.

The national creed of Sisters Network Inc is “In Unity there is Strength, In Strength there is Power, In Power there is Change.” Since the formation of SNI that change has been evident. SNI hosts the only annual national African American Breast Cancer Conference. Since 1999, the conference has attracted thousands of African American breast cancer survivors, their families, caretakers, and the general public. The conference general sessions are conducted by nationally recognized medical experts. Recognizing the African American community’s historical difficulty discussing cancer and other health concerns, Jackson created a national branding campaign: STOP THE SILENCE ®. The slogan: “STOP THE SILENCE®- Changing the Face of Early Breast Health Intervention”, also provided educational outreach and awareness to African American women

between the ages of 25 and 45. The program was funded by the Department of Health & Human Services, Office of Minority Health.

Karen Eubanks Jackson became the change that she wanted to see. When she was diagnosed with breast cancer she not only survived but she decided to help fight the disease on behalf of other women by creating the support that she knew they needed. The best leaders are those who seek the best for those that they serve and Jackson seeks nothing less than the best for the women who battle this deadly disease every day. That is exactly why in addition to the many accolades that Jackson has already received, D-MARS would like to award her the Brenda J. Davis Community Award for 2010. The Brenda J. Davis Community Award, named after MR. D-MARS mother, celebrates people in the community who are consistently giving back and making their mark in the community. Karen Eubanks Jackson is affecting change in how African American women battle a once very frightful disease. “I cannot help but wonder whether or not my mother would still be alive if she would have gotten tested earlier, had easier access to information about breast cancer, or had a support network like Sisters Network Inc. Although, it is too late now to consider the “what if ”, I am proud that Karen has stopped the silence and given so many women a sense of strength and connectedness in their battle,” says Mr. D-MARS. D-MARS.com encourages everyone to support Sisters Network®Inc. 1ST National African American Breast Cancer 5K Walk/Run on Saturday, April 10, 2010. You may register online at www.sistersnetworkinc.org.

6.

How to Achieve Financial Freedom in 2010

BY CHRISTINA ROBINSON GROCHETT, University of Phoenix – Houston Vice President

Last year, the nation experienced record housing foreclosures and unemployment that climbed to double digits.

Unsure about their future in the shaky economy, many families started cutting their spending and saving more. According to the Commerce Department’s Bureau of Economic Analysis, the saving rate was 4.7 percent in November 2009, the highest number this decade.

While we are still feeling the aftermath of the recession and are uncertain about the opportunities ahead, below are a couple of tips for planning your future in 2010.

Commit to change.

The biggest myth about financial freedom is that drastic changes must be made to your budget to become wealthy.

This is not true. If you are committed to saving and spending wisely, changing your lifestyle by making small adjustments can make a big difference. For instance, pack a lunch rather than eating out every day, carpool with co-workers to save money on gas, or plan for unexpected expenses to help ease overall financial strains. Saving a few dollars at a time adds up over the long term and

can help you climb out of debt and into of economic burden is made and these simple steps are made, do not give a seca more financially fit lifestyle. ond thought to “what if ” or “what might Build an Emergency Fund. have been.” Every dollar that is saved One of the hardest parts of saving helps working professionals get closer to is foreseeing emergencies. People often financial freedom. don’t plan their budgets for emergencies, so when your car breaks down, Gain a Competitive Edge.

Make yourself invaluable to your a natural disaster hits or you become unemployed, you panic to make ends company by sharpening your skills and meet. This year, you should build an obtaining additional certification or an emergency fund and save the equivalent advanced degree. While you are comof six months of expenses as a backup pleting your studies, you will improve your skill set and perform better in the plan. workplace. This will make you a bigRecognize Your Weaknesses. ger asset in the company and will give No matter what the finances are, the you a competitive edge among your coway people are taught to use money plays workers. an integral role in how they budget their finances. Unfortunately, if people do not University of Phoenix helps local know how to efficiently manage a salresidents with their financial planning ary of $20,000 a year, trying to balance by offering a free money management more money will only create additional seminar that is open to the public. Budissues as their spending might increase, get for Life was implemented to help rather than their saving accounts. The individuals achieve financial success deproblem isn’t the size of their checkbook; spite constantly rising prices. The semiit is the way in which they were taught nar shows people how to make small to use money. adjustments to their budgets in order to Stress Less. ease overall financial strains. Please call Once the decision to take control (713) 465-9966 for more information.

MasterMind your Legacy cas. As president of the local NAACP and pastor of Good Hope Missionary Baptist Church, Rev. A.A. Lucas influenced Lonnie Smith, a Houston dentist from his congregation, to be a plaintiff in the landmark case Smith v. Allwright 321 U.S. 649 (1944). The Supreme Court ruling secured the right to vote for all not just in TEXAS, but in party primary elections across the country.

Thurgood Marshall, who arbitrated

BY CRAIG ANTHONY NICHOLAS the case, said it was one of his proudContributing Writer est cases other than Brown v. Board of Much can be said about the legacy Education. At that time there was only of freedom we now enjoy because of my one party in TEXAS when Democrats great, great, Uncle, Albert Anderson Lu- kept blacks from voting in their primary Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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elections, it was as if their vote in the general election did not count because the candidate that won the primaries ran unopposed.

We do not have to accept the limits that are presented to us when we know we are part of a great heritage that champions freedom. Kennedy was no astronaut or engineer, but set us on a course to reach the moon. They said of Reagan that he did not simply look at the world the way it was. He looked at the world the way he wanted it to be and shaped it toward that end and was able to speed the end of Communism and the fall of the Berlin Wall without firing a shot.

Christina Robinson Grochett is the State Vice President/ Director of South Texas for University of Phoenix. An accomplished leader and champion of higher learning, she was selected as a 2010 Women of Influence by Houston Woman Magazine and one of the Top 10 business women by the American Business Women’s Association in 2008. Under her leadership, the Houston campuses were selected as a 2009 Best Place to Work by The Houston Business Journal and were awarded with the 2009 and 2008 Alfred P. Sloan Awards from the City of Houston for Workplace Flexibility and Innovation.

That promoted not just peace, but we now celebrate 20 years of freedom for that part of the world.

We still have walls that need to come down in our life, business, and relationships. Create the conditions you desire, take greater command over your life and legacy, and prepare for a great harvest!

As benefactors of treasured stories, if you purpose to do something worthwhile, you cannot avoid conflict with adversity.

You CAN do it if you mastermind with effective partners, seek wisdom, and have persistence to the point of perfection. In memory of all those who have gone before us, to help us see a brand new day, there is still more that is required of us as we prepare the way for those that come after us. Keep reaching for the mark of the prize of the high calling.

7.

“Beyond the Scope With the faith of a mustard seed…. of Your Eyes”

The Promise CHURCH

BY AUTHOR NOEL PINNOCK, B.S., M.P.A., C.A., CCC Contributing Writer According to Dictionary.com, the noun tense of “limit” is defined as the final, utmost, or furthest boundary or point as to extent, amount, continuance, or procedure, while the verb tense of the word can be interpreted as to confine or keep within limits. Whether verb or noun, the word “limit” connotes restraint and should be a word that we immediately remove from our lexicon because on the journey called “life” there are no limits that should impede our ability to vision, dream, and achieve With that said, we know that there is no limit that anyone can impose on us other than the limits we impose on ourselves. In business and career, there will always be someone or something that will serve to impede your efforts to be a better parent, co-worker, spouse, friend, etc. In the race of life, we must keep our vision beyond the scope of our eyes. It is easy to maintain a myopic perspective but I challenge you to open your horizon and envision a world without stoplights and stop signs.

I was watching the biopic documentary of Grammy® award artist Dwayne Michael Carter, Jr. better known as Lil-Wayne on MTV3®. I was intrigued at his story not because it was much like many artists that rose to stellar fame despite the horrid conditions in the struggle to the top but because of his commitment to excel in the industry of which very few artists are able to maintain prudent levels of sanity, connectedness, and incredible amount of foresight. You see, at the age of nine, Mr. Carter decided a goal and chartered the path to success. Whether critics like it or not, his commitment triumphed over trouble and the infamous “no” and called it as he saw it. He did not let anyMar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

one dictate his fate; instead, he declared himself the best rapper alive and is currently referred to as the best rapper alive today. In fact, he just recently signed one of the highest grossing contracts ever executed in rap’s history (Source: Mediatakeout.com). Rhetorically I pose: how is that for bling bling? Mr. Carter knew then what we should know now: − For every accomplishment, there is a price to pay − For every goal, there is an opponent to beat − For every victory, there is a problem to solve − For every triumph, there is a SACRIFICE to make I can remember when I was seeking to publish my books, Seven Spiritual Conformities and Had it not Been for Him, both spiritual in nature. Therefore, I solicited support from pastors and publishing companies locally and around the world. I literally sent copies of the manuscripts for their review in hopes that they would help point me in a direction because the cost of publishing an unknown author is down right expensive and without a literary agent, getting in those circles is like breaching the doors in Fort Knox. Needless to say, I continued praying and never saw my books unpublished. I always saw them in bookstores and available in online outlets. I continued to look beyond the scope of my eyes and walked by faith.

Eventually, I would go on to publish both books one year apart from each other. My God-given vision was transformed into reality and now both books are available in some bookstores.

You see, the bling in our life might not be as sensational as Mr. Carter or being published, but you can best believe that once you begin to look and explore life beyond the scope of your eyes an entirely different world appears. A world where boundaries are stair-steps and promised accomplishment, goal, victory, and triumph are only steps away.

Remember, if you can see it, then speak it into existence, the bible refers to it as faith, Romans 4:17: “…call those things that be not as though they are!”

Keep looking beyond the scope of your eyes - NAP www.

BY APRIL DAVIS In the heart of South Central Houston in a small overlooked economically disadvantaged area, there is a seed. It is a seed of hope and promise. Like all seeds it had humble beginnings of only eight people and a prayer, but it has already budded into a progressive entity aptly named, The Promise Church. When Pastor Smedley first felt moved to begin a church, he and his team of 7 had little more than a promise to work with.

There were no followers. There were no funds. How could they make a difference? It would take too much work and too much self-sacrifice. It would just make more sense for them to stay in their comfort zones and just take care of their own. The team opted for the hard road. They sowed time, money, and sometimes sweat, and tears. Slowly the ministry began to grow.

Hard work and sacrifice in the interest of service remains a mainstay for The Promise Church and has helped to establish a fruitful partnership between school, church, and community. To date, The Promise Church has begun a food pantry that helps feed needy families, ministered to the elderly in nursing homes around the surrounding Houston-area, conducted a fall-festival at the Boys & Girls Club of greater Houston (5950 Selinsky), volunteered at various Reynold’s Elementary School functions, donated books to the Johnson neighborhood library, partnered with Brian Iwuh from the Jacksonville Jaguars for the ‘Pride in Sunnyside” event which provides scholarships and a football camp for kids this past summer, and still continues to discover new ways to use few resources to help much and serve many.

Pastor Smedley and his flock have made it a priority to never allow all the work that takes place outside the walls of the church to negate the ministry that goes on within the walls of the church.

When one steps into Worthing High

School’s auditorium to worship with The Promise, they will immediately be enveloped in the spirit of love. It is a home away from home and an extended family where members and visitors of all ages, cultures, and walks of life experience genuine warmth and connectedness. It is a place where people can find transparency and truth.

Against all odds, this little seed of a church has already began to flourish and as it continues to sow seeds of selflessness, both the ministry and the community look forward to the many harvests to come.

“This church means a lot to me because I really was struggling on how I can take a big step towards God and this church family helped a lot. That’s why I made the choice of getting baptized here at the Promise Church.”

– Vashion Williams “This Church has meant for my family and I, a place of happiness! The Promise Church is a place to meet new friends and a place to come and feel welcomed, and fell as a part of the fell as a part of the family.”

– Mrs. Powell “The Promise Church has been like a family to me. I had been looking for a church home. So when I first visited the church, I enjoyed the service so much I became a member. My life has been great ever since.”

– Vera Montgomery “The Promise Church has strengthened us in our marriage and faith with the Lord. It is good to know that you have family within a family.”

– Carlestor Chatmon “I am so happy to have you all here.

This is the first real church FAMILY I have had in the last 10 years. You all saved my life. You chose when I couldn’t choose you! Thanks” – Monique Houston

Advertise today in D-MARS Business Journal Call US TODAY!

713.272.9511 8.

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9.

Tough job interview questions for tough times While some tough job interview questions take us off guard, others are more than obvious. How we answer job interview questions will make the difference between getting and not getting the job. We all have questions that we’d rather not be asked during an interview.

But how can one prepare completely for a tough interview?

It all boils down to doing your homework. Make sure that you know your resume thoroughly and expect questions to come from your work history. Also, expect questions about the company you want to work for and the type of future you want in that company, and finally, expect questions about you.

You should use several large lists of questions in preparation for the interview.

• In terms of your career, what motivates you to move upward and attain further success?

• What do you find are the most difficult decisions to make?

• Tell me about yourself.

• What has been the greatest disappointment in your life?

• What has been your greatest accomplishments in your life?

• What are you passionate about?

• If you could relive the last 10 years of your life, what would you do differently?

• Do you prefer to work independently or on a team?

• How do you evaluate success?

• If you know your boss is 100% wrong about something how would you handle it?

• Describe a difficult work situation or project and how you overcame it.

• Describe a time when your workload was heavy and how you handled it.

• What interests you about this job?

• What can you do for this company?

• Is there anything I haven’t told you about the job or company that you would like to know?

• What is the highest level you wish to be promoted within our company?

• What were your expectations for your previous job and to what extent were they met?

• Why should we select you for this job?

• What were your responsibilities?

• What major challenges and problems did you face? How did you handle them?

• What did you like or dislike about your previous job?

• Which was most and least rewarding?

• What was the biggest accomplishment and failure in this position?

• What was the most enjoyable aspect of your previous job?

• What do you expect from a supervisor?

• Who was your best boss and who was the worst?

• What is the ideal co-worker?

• What is the ideal boss?

• What is your greatest weakness?

• What is your greatest strength?

• Do you take work home with you?

• How would you describe the pace at which you work?

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There is Help

• If the people who know you were asked why you should be hired, what would they say?

• Briefly describe what you did at your previous company.

• What were your starting and final levels of compensation?

Bad Breath?

• What are your career goals for the next five years and ten years?

• How do you plan to achieve those goals?

• What will you do if you don’t get this position?

While the above questions are standard and can be expected at most job interviews, you should also create your own questions. Obviously during a job interview, regardless of your personality, you need to be congenial and polite.

Try not to appear nervous as well. Most importantly, try to appear confident in yourself but not to the point of appearing cocky. Remember, the key to a successful job interview is preparation.

When you are completely prepared, you will tend to be less nervous. Of course, it is highly likely you will be presented with a question or two that you did not expect. This is why preparation also entails having the knowledge base that you can expect the interviewer will tap into.

Many employers prefer a less educated candidate with fewer credentials who is bright and willing to learn, over one who is more prepared but lacks the proper attitude. www.

BY DR. ALISON SCOTT CUILLIER

There is no permanent cure for the cause of 90% of Chronic Halitosis cases.

It is important to understand that most over the counter products do not eliminate Chronic Halitosis, but rather only serve to mask the offensive odor temporarily. Studies have shown that while mouthwash products mask bad breath, only a few continue to be effective after only a few hours. Many instances of Chronic Halitosis are directly related to underlying medical conditions; diabetes (fruity smell), liver dysfunction, pulmonary disease, respiratory disease (sinus and lung infections) and renal failure (fishy smell). Fortunately, we at Lasting Impressions Dental Group, can help diagnose the various causes of Chronic Halitosis. Treatment for Chronic Halitosis is far from hopeless. When it comes to something as important as your breath, you shouldn’t rely on something that can let you down. Rely on the dental professionals at Lasting Impressions Dental Group to direct you to the professional products that we have that will outline treatment options for maintaining your breath. This way you will have the confidence that comes from knowing you truly have the cleanest, freshest breath possible.

Fresh breath is always a priority.

Make a dental appointment with us today!

Let’s face it; we’ve all had experiences with friends, relatives, and co-workers with less than fresh breath. Millions of Americans have bad breath that never seems to go away. The medical term for this condition is “Chronic Halitosis.”

As strange as it may seem, many people with Chronic Halitosis are not aware of their problem, and far less have the information or the right tools for effective lasting treatment.

There are generally two types of bad breath: transitory and chronic. Transitory bad breath generally lasts for 24 to 72 hours, and can be associated with the foods we eat (i.e. garlic or onions).

Chronic bad breath or “Halitosis” does not improve over time and is generally the result of bacteria in the mouth and on the tongue forming Volatile Sulfur Compounds or VSC’s. Bad breath has also been attributed to tobacco, alcohol use or neglected dental work, especially periodontal (gum) disease. We can all relate to morning breath, which is due to the decrease in saliva flow in the mouth (Dry Mouth). Some low carbohydrates diets can cause a condition Lasting Impressions Dental Group 4418 Almeda called “hunger odor” which is the result Houston, Texas 77004 of ketosis-an incomplete use of body fats for energy.

713 528 0040!

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What is a Federally Qualified Health Center?

Marcus Roland CEO/ President

BY TIEASHA JAMES FQHC is a federal designation from the Bureau of Primary Health Care (BPHC) and the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) that is assigned to private non-profit or public health care organizations that serve predominantly uninsured or Medically Underserved Areas or Populations (MUA or MUP). All FQHCs must operate under a consumer Board of Directors and provide Comprehensive Primary Health Care, oral and mental healthcare and substance abuse services to persons in all stages of the life cycle.

FQHCs provide their services to all persons regardless of ability to pay, and charge for services on a Board approved sliding-fee scale that is based on patients’ family income and size. FQHCs must comply with Section 330 Program Expectations/Requirements and all applicable federal and state regulations.

FQHCs are also called Community Health Centers, and 330 Funded Clinics. Some Community Health Centers are Migrant Health Centers, Homeless Health Centers, School Based Health Centers or Public Housing Health Centers. There are a number of Benefits of being designated as an FQHC to the community.

The direct benefits to the community include: the FQHC is a community-based organization that is governed by a board of directors that is made up of 51% of its health centers users, the community health center will be a medical home that provides high quality, comprehensive health services to the medically underserved so non-emergent Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

cases in hospital emergency rooms will be reduced, increased economic impact of federal and state funding through provisions of future federal funding, reduction in the number of uninsured due to FQHC assistance with Medicaid and Children’s Health Insurance Program enrollment, less financial strain on Medicare patients due to deductible waiver if services are provided at FQHC, free immunizations for uninsured children, and referral arrangements for FQHC patients provides better access to other health providers.

The FQHC can provide comprehensive and high quality health services to the underserved population. Other benefits include: • Reduced cost prescription and nonprescription medications – FQHC qualification will allow community members to purchase prescription and non-prescription medications at reduced cost through the 340B Drug Pricing Program.

• Reduce infant mortality – FQHC clients have fewer low birth weight babies due to emphasis on early entry into prenatal care and the provision of Healthy Start wraparound services.

• Increased preventive services – FQHC clients are more likely to receive counseling on diet, physical activity, smoking, drinking, drug use, and sexually transmitted diseases than the uninsured patients who seek care elsewhere. FQHCs also increase the use of pap smears and mammograms in the communities they serve.

• Increased cost effectiveness of healthcare – FQHC patients have lower hospital admission rates, shorter lengths of hospital stays, less unnecessary use of hospital emergency rooms, and cost 30 percent below other providers serving the same population.

Central Care Community Health Center was the first Community Health Center in the Houston area and one of the best organizations for you to access affordable, comprehensive, high quality healthcare services and they provide primary medical, dental and social health services. The services are all on a sliding scale basis, but more importantly they www.

don’t turn anyone away due to their inability to pay.

The primary mission of Central Care Community Health Center is to increase access to health care and reduce health disparities. We look forward to

working with residents in the communities we serve to improve the health and quality of life of individuals living in the community. Central Care Community Health Center plans to provide the venue and resources to empower the residents of the community to improve their health, mind and spirit.

Be sure to contact the Central Care Community Health Center for your health needs at (713) 734-0199 or (713) 831-9663. www.centralcarechc.org

CENTRAL CARE COMMUNITY HEALTH CENTER 8610 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Houston, Texas 77033 Or 3315 Delano, Houston, Texas 77004

Overcoming the Greatest Challenge….

By Bill Calhoun, Contributing Writer

I’m a 61-year old legally-blind, home-based business owner who’s enjoying the second phase of my life. But it wasn’t always this way.

I graduated from college, entered the workforce, had a 10 year career with a Fortune 100 company and left to start my own firm.

For 24 years, I operated and led the largest firm in its peer group in Texas. I was active in civic, social and community organizations. Then, in 2000, I faced the greatest challenge of my life.

The news was delivered by my doctor: I was going blind and would eventually lose my sight. That morning as I sat on my bed, I wondered what my future would look like, where my income would come from and how my life would change. The fear of the unknown was so devastating that I could no longer sit and had to lie down. I started to feel sorry for myself.

I ignored the doctor’s diagnosis and tried to continue business as usual until some months later, I had an auto accident. I ran through a red light and broad-sided a car. I could’ve killed the passenger. Fortunately I didn’t. Yet, the accident was my wake-up call. I had to face the tough decision to sell my business and leave the industry that I loved.

I was depressed and felt isolated.

More than that, I had lost my identity,

my self-worth and my purpose.

It was a phone call from a friend that said “you now are ready to do what you were called to do--teach others.” His were the words I clung to as I started out on the second phase of my life.

Now, some 10 years later, I’ve come to better understand that the way to make life meaningful is to add meaning to the lives of others. It’s also the way to fight off self-pity.

I spend my days in front of my specially configured computer and on my phone coaching new entrepreneurs all across the country especially those who have lost their job and felt cheated or bitter.

I coach them spiritually, emotionally and intellectually. I try to help them “see” their value in terms of their life experiences; to measure their worth not just in dollars and cents but in the “common sense” they have learned and to look each day for opportunities to share it with others.

This simple act is what adds meaning to life is what I ask them to embrace.

So now, in this phase of my life, I attend the funerals of my friends and the graduations and weddings of my nieces and nephews and protégés. I celebrate their accomplishments and counsel them (when asked) on their setbacks.

I now know that the purpose of the first half of life—learning is just to prepare us for the second half which is sharing.

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“Exceeding Limits “Mountains are and Expectations” meant To Climb” Visionary & Pastor Charles E. Perry, Jr.

“We are Restoring Lives with the Word of God and when Your Life is Restored, You Shall Have Double.” _ Charles E. Perry, Jr. Word of Restoration Christian Fellowship in Rosharon, Texas Pastor Perry received an instruction from God during the latter part of the year 2000, to go to the Arcola-Fresno area and start a church. It would be a multi-cultural kingdom church. God gave him the name of the church, Word of Restoration Christian Fellowship, where people could come and receive a word for their restoration. God then gave him the vision, “Restoring Lives with the Word of God,” and the assignment was the build God a city, “The City of Restoration.” Today, those God-given instructions have become a reality for the thousands who gather to worship at the Place of Restoration.

Charles E. Perry Jr., is a native of Houston, Texas. Being reared in the community known as Acres Homes (44), he grew up in the church and accepted the call to preach the gospel at the age of 18 under the leadership of his father. Even as a child growing up, he knew he would be a leader of God’s people.

Pastor Perry, along with his wife and partner, Charlette, says their success in ministry is because of their obedience to the Word of God. Word of Restoration is unique because of its ability to provide five star ministry to their members and visitors in a rural area. While preaching and teaching God’s Word is important, unless people are given strategic and practiMar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

cal ways for living, they’ll never know how to live out the Word they receive.

Word of Restoration reaches people where they are and then incites them to excel to that place of maximum potential. After experiencing hopelessness and contemplating suicide in 2001 and now having his life restored, Pastor Perry understands regardless to where people are or what they have experienced, they can live again. As a visionary, with a unique but easy to comprehend teaching style, Pastor Perry has a convincing way of stirring you up to believe all things really are possible.

Another uniqueness of Word of Restoration is that it unifies people of all social backgrounds. Pastor Perry stated, “When the doors of the church open and the seats are filled, the house of God reflects the “coat of many colors.” It is a place where all God’s people are free to worship and receive a word for their restoration. Uniqueness is its professional diversity. People gather from “Who’s Who” to “Who are You!” CEO’s, janitors, attorneys, warehouse workers, doctors, homemakers, educators, truck drivers and professional athletes find restoration through the Word and refreshing through the loving experience.

It is the ministry or services we give that keep people coming. We provide ministry on every level for the family.

Chosen Generation Nursery, Royal Priesthood for your children, Generation Holy Nation for Teens coupled with their WORD UP Bible Study and HYPE Sundays. There is the fellowship for Distinguished 55+, L.O.V.E. Marriage Classes, Financial Peace Classes and Investment Seminars. There is also Triumphant Women of God and Men of Honor Fellowship and soon to start is our Christian Business Owners Network.

From a small beginning of 13 people and no assets to well over 1500 active members, 44 acres of land, a 30,000 square feet worship facility, 15 employees (full-time & part-time) and over 8 million in assets in just nine (9) years. We have most definitely exceeded the limits and expectations of many, including ourselves, says Pastor Perry. www.

T. Q. DOYLE, Coach and Image Consultant – MBA, SPHR As goes the real story of Michael, a marketing executive in a Fortune 500 company. Michael was accomplished in his career and held an unwavering dedication to his development.

He was certainly progressing to that next promotion, an opportunity that came around every three years. Then there is Dale, a slightly junior colleague who befriends Michael to learn his techniques and ways of working.

Dale held ulterior motives and used Michael’s friendship for personal gain and other unethical acts. Come next promotion round, Dale advances and Michael does not. Hooray for Dale – but, my sarcasm really trumps that jubilation. Surely, you wonder how this story can possibly inspire you and your dreams. How does this play into your quest to accomplish and exceed limits and expectations? Let’s back up a second to do some level-setting on the subject.

It’s obvious that Michael’s goal has now been hit with an unexpected outcome. Setbacks are normal and will exist along the way. When we are hit with them we should avoid the “Well, at least I tried.” In doing so, we succumb to defeat and perhaps complacency which trickles to the settling in of adversity and results in “getting stuck.”

Instead, establish your mission toward exceeding limits and expectations by: 1) having comfort in knowing that unpredictable terrain will surface, and; 2) having energy for the big rebound.

Surely Michael felt overcome with defeat but so goes the path to achievement. Take a moment to picture a mountain. Your picture probably resembles mine. Is your mountain broad and massive and mostly consumed with bumps and protrusions? Yes, those are

bumps of “adversity.” Think about it – have you ever seen a mountain that slopes with sheer smoothness and evenness? Likely not. As it advances upwards, the jagged terrain does not disappear yet that mountain does narrow as if to say that adversities will not overcome its greatness. And, as the mountain projects upwards and upwards, it gains breathtaking and awesome majesty, and it wins with a peak of grandeur!

If Michael is truly dedicated he will now reposition himself for the bumps, twists and turns of his journey. If you’ve ever skied you can relate even more to the adversities along the path. Adversities affect something good in our lives be it in resilience, more strength, or new abilities. A great sense of accomplishment is the experience of skiing that blue or black run and winning over each adversity to a successful and, might I say, safe finish. That’s achievement!

Mountains were created to remind us of life’s path. The terrain does not disappear…it remains…but there is a greatness present that says “Hey, I got this….just focus on your climb and you will succeed.” Just know that no matter how hard others may try to set your fate, they cannot. Michael should not be overwhelmed by the set back. Dale wins if Michael stops believing in himself and forfeits his dream.

In reflecting on the achievers in your world, who is the most impressive?

He/She who advances and does so easily or he/she who overcomes challenge and adversity? Achievers claim greatness when their accomplishment is done fairly and directed toward right and good.

It has goodness through and through.

It’s imperishable. Achievement from evil intent and without underhandedness is contrary and short-lived. If Dale has a decent conscious he should feel nondeserving of his accomplishment.

So when you face those adversities, don’t settle for complacency at the broad base of your mountain where so many rest but re-aspire to your peak. Demonstrate patience because things that are worth achieving take time and are more lasting once accomplished. Embrace your challenges, count them with joy, and keep climbing!

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American InterContinental University Offers Options for Adults Going Back to School

Annuity & You

BY STEVE MALUTICH Colleges and universities are bracing themselves for a surge of educationhungry students. One-in-eight adults (12%) plans to head back to school within the next few years, a recent CareerBuilder survey found. What’s behind this rush, and how can adult students make the most of their higher education opportunities?

The survey indicates that most of the prospective collegians want to make themselves more marketable for their career advancement. Indeed, 20 percent say they plan to change jobs in 2010, with many expressing unhappiness with their current post. While 61 percent say they were satisfied with their job last year, that percentage fell substantially from 70 percent in 2008.

For many of them, a career-focused education can provide a clear option.

Such an education centers on real-world knowledge and skills, focusing on both general education and professional skills. The American InterContinental University (AIU) Houston campus serves as one of many schools that offer industry-current degree programs to career-focused professionals.

The criminal justice field is anticipated to grow by 10 percent nationally through 2018, the Labor Department agency projects, while local employment markets will vary. With a rising population and concerns about public safety, demand continues strong for Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

qualified law enforcement professionals.

For those exploring further education in business, a Master of Business Administration degree has become a popular option. A lot of schools, including AIU, even offer accelerated programs, allowing students to obtain their MBA in as few as 12 months.

Regardless of why you want to pursue additional education, career-focused fields can offer an ideal option in that quest to find true job satisfaction.

Steve Malutich is the president of American InterContinental University (AIU) Houston, a regionally accredited degree-granting university, offering a wide range of associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs. AIU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. Additional information is available at (312) 263-0456 or www.ncahigherlearningcommission. org. AIU does not guarantee employment or salary. www.

BY JUSTINA CHEN, Contributing Writer Annuity is a contract between you and an insurance company, under which you make a lump-sum payment or series of payments. In return, the insurance company agrees to make periodic payments to you beginning immediately or at some future date. It’s neither a life insurance nor a health insurance policy.

It’s not a savings account or a savings certificate.

You don’t buy an annuity to reach short-term financial goals. It safeguards your wealth and provides long-term financial security and tax-deferred growth of earnings and may include a death benefit that will pay your beneficiary a guaranteed minimum amount.

There are three types of annuities; Fixed, Variable and Equity-Indexed.

They accumulate income over a longer period of time before paying it out to the annuity holder. When planning your financial future and comparing annuities, it’s important to stay focused on the long term and ask yourself: “How much will my safety and comfort require?”

With a fixed annuity, the insurance company guarantees the rate of return at the time you purchase your annuity, and it will continue to grow at that safe and secure rate for as long as you or your heirs own it. The return is modest, but it is armor-plated against stock or bond market meltdowns. Variable annuities raise the gamble considerably, tying

your annuity’s growth to stocks or mutual funds – therefore, in a down market, you suffer long earnings droughts.

An indexed annuity comes with guaranteed minimum returns by splitting the difference, attaching your rate of return to the Standard and Poor’s Stock Market Index or one of the other reliable barometers of investment growth.

Therefore, it provides upside growth potential, protection against market risk and tax-deferred growth.

Out of 2,000 insurance providers in America, over 200 offer annuities.

How do we pick one? What’s more important – security, growth, tax benefit, retirement, legacy…? The decision is yours. Knowledge helps you make an intelligent decision.

When shopping for an annuity, don’t focus only on the annuity product itself. Instead, look first at the underlying soundness of all annuity companies whose products you consider. For instance, AM Best, Moody’s, Standard & Poor’s, and Fitch are the world’s leading financial rating institutions.

Consider whether or not you really need or want an annuity. With plenty of time to ride-out even the most radical market fluctuations, a young professional just beginning a retirement portfolio should invest the maximum allowable amounts in 401(k)’s or Roth IRA’s. They allow both the greatest control over your investments and the greatest flexibility; they also afford the most room for growth, and all your contributions to these retirement funds reduce your tax liability, because they are deducted from your income before you are taxed. Only if you come into a huge lump sum or have maximized all your other retirement accounts, would you even consider an annuity.

We’ll pick one annuity product to analyze in our March Chat Room. If you have any question or need additional information, please contact Justina Chen at 713-826-7048 or bestins4u@ gmail.com.

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Shattering your Glass Ceiling “Seldom does an individual exceed his own expectations”

be granted. Many times, we read a situation or goal as unattainable or choose to maintain the status quo through a “shooting for the moon, landing in the stars” mentality. It sometimes becomes – unknown author easy to confine our businesses within certain boundaries. But your goal of owning a multi-million dollar company is attainable, even if your map (or comBY DIEDRIA B. JOSEPH pany history, situation) says otherwise.

Contributing Writer Becoming more successful than what your current “situation” dictates requires adequate planning, training, and followpon considering one’s po- ing through. tential toward greatness, Dismal Situations Often Breed we can all agree that everyExcellence one strives to be great but Recently, my company, Topp only few attain their greatest potential.

Knotch Personnel, faced a difficult but It seems that there are only a small perpotentially rewarding opportunity. We centage of individuals who have made were awarded a contract from a compastrategic moves that propelled their cany for staffing services that was formerly reers to the next level. More often, these unsuccessfully managed by another success stories are people who should agency. From the sudden onset of our not have excelled according to their agreement, we were given an opportunicircumstances or other people’s opinty to sink deeper or swim stronger. Not ions about them. When considering only did we have to source and find new the quote above, it is almost seems pescandidates and take on other candidates simistic to think that individuals canfrom the previous agency, but we were not exceed their own expectations. But also left to clean up much of the “mess” a common strand in the lives of highly the other company left behind. This resuccessful individuals is the ability to quired that we reengage workers through create aggressive plans that exceed norrenewing their passion about their job. mal expectations and actually following We had to make sure all employees through with those plans because they knew exactly what was expected of them understand that though it may seem through the true understanding of job difficult, it is indeed attainable. duties and responsibilities. We had to External Limits and Boundaries rebuild the trust of the client company, Consider an illustrative example. who through being burned, were not as Picture a map of North America, spe- welcoming of any new vendor. We had cifically the United States. Most maps to maintain all of these factors while enhave a clear, defined border around suring that we did not stumble into the the United States depicted through same pitfalls of the last company. the drawing separating it from Canada One month into the contract, we reand Mexico. In actuality, if one were to ceived word from the client that we were visit those borders, there may be a wall, doing a stellar job reviving a division gate, or fence barring the ability to eas- of the company that was thought to be ily pass through. This should prohibit dead to productivity 30 days prior. We any movement back or forth through went into the situation, where we did the different countries. But we all know not necessarily have all of the tools we that this is not the case, despite the fact needed to make it a success, and evaluthat the map and the physical appear- ated the situation for what it truly was. ance says otherwise. If you have the From there, we created a plan to make correct credentials, such as a passport, the contract work. In retrospect, at first your access to Canada and Mexico can evaluation, it seemed that our plan was

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completely far-fetched as evidenced by the former agency’s failure. But our staff worked diligently and exhibited great teamwork to ensure that we provided more than everything that we promised (a complete staffing solution).

Exceed Your Expectations by Exceeding Their Expectations In our line of business, we pride ourselves in excellent customer service.

On one hand, we have company goals that involve a certain level of growth and increase in revenue. On another hand, we also strive to create solutions for our company that involve added value.

When our staff works hard to consider the value-added proposition in each interaction with our clients, we experience increased customer satisfaction which directly translates into increased revenue. This is the heart of the phrase “under promise and over deliver.” But this does not mean that the bar should be set so low that any action will over deliver. We strive to offer our customer great and provide them with the best.

Through setting aggressive goals for the company, implementing and evaluating those plans to ensure that they are being carried out to achieve those goals, and providing our clients with the best solution, you will be able to consistently exceed their expectations, therefore exceeding your expectations for success.

Diedria B. Joseph is President/CEO of Topp Knotch Personnel, Inc. Topp Knotch Personnel offers various services such as Executive Recruiting/Direct Hire, Temporary Placement, Temp to Hire, and Contract Staffing nationwide. We are the link between companies seeking diverse talent and skilled candidates looking for jobs. For more information, please visit our website at www.toppknotchpersonnel.com.

ABOVE & BEYOND All the time, every time

BY ELVIA LYNNE VALDEZ Sometimes people just do not get me. I sometimes take that as a compliment and at other times it bothers me. If the word “MISUNDERSTOOD” could fit on my license plate, that’s exactly what it would read. As a child at an early age I quickly learned the importance of hard work. My mom never stopped to smell the roses, and until this day works as if her life depended on it.

Hard work is all I know, that’s the only way I know how to get what I want.

I grew up in a nice suburb and attended a very ritzy school, and while I was not one of those students, I learned how their parents were able to give them things my parents could not. Don’t get me wrong, I always had the best, but just like anything in life, there is always better.

I learned that while their parents were lawyers, doctors, insurance agents, and teachers mine were just like the next.

My mom worked in retail and my dad a welder. I was equally proud of my parents and I learned that I could still have the very best, regardless of my family’s circumstances. This allowed me to set myself up for success by dreaming big.

One of my personal weaknesses is I am very impatient, I automatically expect others to work as hard as I do. As a public relations professional, I have to constantly give what I do, everything I have. I am the voice for so many people who are waiting on life saving organ transplants and those who have been blessed by the gift of life, transplant recipients. If I don’t work hard and go above and beyond in what I do, then it makes my work a “Job.” I don’t treat my profession as a job, I make it my mission.

If you work and play hard, but always work harder, you will have results.

My personal mantra has always been to dream for the stars, and if you fall in the middle of the moon, than you still have a great view. I do not set up road blocks for myself; others will do that for me I just tear them down. I love giving others more than they expect, that is always a great thing!

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Local non-profit offers free tax preparation during community outreach event

BY SHAR-DAY CAMPBELL Free Tax Houston is a program of Bethel’s Place, a non-profit organization that seeks to empower the community through an assortment of enrichment programs. The Free Tax Houston initiative is federally funded through the IRS (Internal Revenue Service) and strives to equip families with the educational tools they need to achieve lasting financial security.

Free Tax Houston offers quality free tax preparation by IRS certified tax preparers; free electronic filing; free direct deposit; fast refunds and financial literacy materials that promote ways to become financially secure. Assistance in Spanish is also available.

The Free Tax Day Community Outreach Event is on Saturday, March 13, 2010 at the Power Center (12401 S Post Oak Rd | Houston, TX 77045) from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Why pay a fee when you can get it done for free? The event will include performances from local artists headlined by Houston’s own J. Xavier, free tax preparation, free electronic filing, free direct deposit, fast refunds, family friendly entertainment and a money machine. All attendees should bring a photo ID, a Social Security Card or Individual Taxpayer Identification Number (ITIN), W-2s, 1099s, all other tax-related documents and a voided check for a direct deposit option.

For more information about the Free Tax Houston Initiative call 281779-4707 or visit www.freetaxhouston.com.

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After 6 Shoe Lounge is Creating your Look from the Bottom Up

Sheila Sweeny/CEO

BY ALYSSA RACHELLE Contributing Writer As I prepared to attend my friend’s wedding, I had the pleasure to select the perfect outfit for this special occasion. I opted for a cute spring dress, with the clutch to match and subtle jewelry that wouldn’t overshadow my dress or natural hair. Although I felt stunning, I knew my outfit wasn’t complete until I slipped into my sexy otherwise referred to as my shoes. I love shoes, particularly heels.

They take my 5’3” stature and turn it into America’s Next Top Model all while accentuating my calves. Who cares if I walk slower than normal and play off a stumble that would have me plummet-

ing to my death; I look extremely posh when wearing them!

I am still not sure exactly why we will suffer through the pain of terrific shoes or why we lose our sense of rationale thinking in a shoe department; but in the case of cute shoes the “pleasure is certainly worth the pain.” Shoes can turn the most basic outfit into something spectacular. Who does not like to look spectacular? Fashionista Sheila Sweeny has always ensured that her feet stay rocking the latest and most fashionable pumps. “I always admired the sense of fashion that Halle Berry and Victoria Beckham personified. From the top of their head to the tip of their toes, they were always chic, classy, and sexy,” says Sweeney. With an unwavering passion for shoes, fashionable idols and an extraordinary support system, Sheila opened the HOTTEST ONLINE SHOE STORE IN HOUSTON- After 6 Shoe Lounge.

“I pride myself in having the hottest, latest and most unique shoes throughout each of the seasons. I love the way that I feel when I put on a pair of shoes. Shoes give me that extra boost of confidence, that extra pep in my step, that feeling of sexiness. I want all women and men to be able to have a feeling of exuberance, even if it comes from something as simple as a pair of shoes.” The ambitious Cleveland native has a strong agenda in the south…. “to build women’s confidence through fashionable shoes.” After 6 Shoe Lounge

contains eye-catching shoes that complement any woman’s shape. “I enjoy meeting women and helping them feel confident so when they slip their feet into that new pair of shoes, they feel sexy.” says Sweeney.

Although Sweeney’s dream to open an online shoe store came to fruition, it took awhile for her to launch After 6 Shoe Lounge due to her apprehension.

Sweeney credits her daughter in giving her that push she needed to pursue her dream. “Surround yourself with positive people,” says Sweeney. “Instead of sizing each other up, we should build each other up. You don’t know who you will touch.” Sweeney isn’t focused on the designer name of a shoe but more on the quality of the shoe. At After 6 Shoe Lounge, you can pick a multipurpose shoe: a pair that you can where to work then allow you to go straight to happy hour.

The budding entrepreneur plans to add a few things to her already impressive resume. Sweeney will open a shop for After 6 Shoe Lounge by the end of the year as well as start a shoe fashion line in the near future. She also plans to franchise her business. “Having the right accessories, such as jewelry or a handbag is a must-have,” says Sweeney.

“But wearing the right pair of shoes will be a confidence builder.”

I encourage all men and women to upgrade your image and step into a new you by visiting After6ShoeLounge.com.

Making it on one income The thought of moving from a twoincome family to one can be frightening for many couples, but it is possible to reduce your expenses to make the transition easier.

Here are the top money saving tips for families who find themselves facing one income, whether it’s by necessity or choice.

save you a considerable amount of money both in the car payment and in reduced insurance and maintenance fees.

Eliminate Unnecessary Luxuries There are many ways to save $50$100 a month just by eliminating some unnecessary expenses. For instance, cell phones; do you really need two cell phones, or even one? Cable or satelRefinance Your House lite subscriptions can also be reduced Consider refinancing your house by changing plans, or eliminated altoat a lower interest rate. Also consider gether. lengthening the terms of your mort- Examine Your Grocery Budget gage; going from a 15-year to a 30-year Groceries are another expense that mortgage will reduce your payments. most families can reduce with some

Consider working at home Ask your current employer about the possibility of telecommuting from home. You might also consider opening a home daycare or some other business you can do from home.

Use Coupons You can use coupons for more than just groceries. You can save on hotels, diapers, gas, computer products and many other items. With a little work Sell Or Trade Your Second Car work. Plan a weekly or monthly menu, and organizing, using coupons can save If you have two car payments, con- make a shopping list, and stick to it. Try you a substantial amount of money each sider selling or trading one car. This can to cut out prepared foods and eating out. month. www.

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BY CARLA LANE, Contributing Writer A friend of mine was saying that my body language may be the reason that I am finding difficulty in finding my next job. What do you think?

Your interview body language can give the interviewer a strong indication about you and whether or not you are someone they really want to hire. The job interview can be a stressful situation so the last thing you want to do is give the interviewer the impression that you are nervous.

part can be very disarming and helpful.

Maybe they’re just having a bad day.

While concentrating on your body language, don’t forget to pay attention to the interviewer’s body language too!

They might be sending you subtle Here are some interview body hints with how they act that you can use to your advantage. When interviewlanguage tips: 1. Enter the interview by giving the ing, remember to relax, be honest and interviewer(s) a firm handshake and be yourself. Your best is always good look them in eyes when greeting them. enough!

2. Don’t slouch when you are sitting.

Remember to sit up straight and try not to fidget since it is generally perceived as a sign of nervousness. Don’t tap your hands or feet or do anything else distracting.

3. Be careful of what you do with your arms. You might simply rest your arms on the chair rests so that you don’t accidentally fold them in front of you (which is generally perceived as a defensive posture) or fidget.

4. Maintain eye contact with the interviewer(s) when answering questions but don’t stare at them constantly.

5. Watch the use of your hands and ensure that you aren’t constantly moving them or gesturing with them to the point of distraction.

6. Be aware of the questions you are asked before you answer them. Don’t give essay answers to “yes” or “no” questions. Conversely if the interviewer is asking for details, don’t give them a yes or no answer.

7. Don’t forget to smile especially if the interviewer appears to be a sociable person. While you don’t want to spend the entire interview with a smile on your face, occasionally smiling helps to show enthusiasm and interest. Some interviewers will be strictly business and might not appear sociable but an appropriate level of enthusiasm on your Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

Is phone interviewing common? What are they expecting from me?

A third possible reason for a phone interview could be a screening interview (ie. a technical screen) where they can quickly ask each candidate the same questions and compare answers. I recall setting up numerous phone interviews and many tended to be technical phone screens where the interviewer wanted to gauge both the candidate’s technical and communication skills over the phone to start with.

Keep in mind, the person interviewing you can’t see you (and you obviously can’t see them either) so remember that they are judging not only what you say, but how you say it.

Ensure that you are in a quiet place when the phone interview occurs.

Ensure that you answer the phone at the time the interview takes place.

Don’t miss the call!

Don’t get distracted during the interview. Ensure you are alone and can’t be distracted by anyone or anything.

If you’re using a cordless phone, make sure you have good reception and that it’s fully charged. It’s not a great idea to use a cell phone unless you’re sure you are going to have 100% perfect reception.

As with a face to face interview, try to get an idea from the person interviewing you what happens next in the interview process before the call ends ie.

When will you hear back from them? Is there a face to face interview next?

And as always be prepared! If you stay ready you don’t have to get ready!

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The phone interview is typically used by hiring managers to screen possible job candidates rather than having to invite all of them in for longer face to face interviews.

The phone interview is used to then reduce the list of potential candidates down to a smaller group of people who meet certain criteria and appear to be suitable for the job.

In my experience, employers who I’ve worked with who start with an interview over the phone often do so for two main reasons.

First, they might be the type of hiring manager who for whatever reason likes to start with a large group of potential candidates and then quickly go through the list to identify a smaller group that they want to interview face to face in more detail. I once worked with a hiring manager who would always start by interviewing 10-15 candidates over the phone in a rapid, 5-10 minute phone screen. He would then invite those candidates that he liked for a face to face interview.

Second, hiring managers often utilize the phone interview as a method of interviewing out of town candidates who don’t live in the same city (or state/province/country) as the hiring company. www.

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BY KEITH J. DAVIS, JR., Contributing Writer

W

hen I started my entrepreneurial path, at the age of 10, I believed I was in a world all on my own; selling and trading everything from hats to Pokémon cards. The idea of purchasing goods at a discounted price, then reselling at a higher price seemed [to me] to be the greatest idea that no one else seemed to capitalize on. I guess they were too busy trying to build the best deck and just allowing their parents to fund it. Though I wasn’t complaining, this allowed me to gain somewhat of a monopoly at the school house. Fast forward 9 years, with the same entrepreneur mindset, and a strong supporting team behind me, I’m now CEO of the K. Jerrold Enterprises. K. Jerrold Enterprises is a personal empowerment company that serves as a catalyst for building economic development programs that are centered around young leaders. No longer am I selling bubble gum and no longer do I believe I’m in this world of “Young Entrepreneurs” on my own. Through the advancement of technology and my drive to learn more, I’ve come to realize that there are hundreds and thousands of teens and young adults finding success in starting and running their own successful businesses: • Raised in the projects, South side of Chicago, entrepreneurial icon, business mogul and bestselling author of the book “Realionaire,” Dr. Farrah Gray defied all odds and became a “millionaire” at the tender age of 14, with the creation of “Far Out Foods.”

designer, Andrew Fashion, at 19, was able to change his direction with the revenue explosion from his site Myspacesupport.com. By 21 years of age, Andrew’s development company was net worth 1.8 million.

When you think of the average business professional, teens aren’t usually in the description, but these 2 examples are just a few of the thousands of success stories where age has proven not to be a factor.

Exactly what can this increase in young entrepreneurs be attributed to?

My theory is that there has to be a legitimate reason for this drastic increase in teen entrepreneurship and I’ve come up with three.

(1) Young entrepreneurs are no longer considered a trending topic or something brand new on top social media sites such as Twitter. Nor is it mentioned as something out of the norm and no longer is it a surprise. “Kids are so savvy now, so much more technologically advanced,” says Tony Hawk.

This technological savvy behavior that kids possess helps fuel that entrepreneur spirit. Through sites such as wordpress. com and blog sites, teens are able to develop a professional website, add interesting content and begin building a following; which can then lead to potential advertisers willing to spend big bucks. At the peak of Mystorespace.com Justin was quoted saying, “I was racking in $100,000 checks every month.”

Through the rapid growth of the internet and the advancement of “tools of technology” everything is attainable for teens to turn “yesterday’s impossible into tomorrow’s reality.”

(2) Over the last few years this economies economic state has been in disarray, so as a teen, going through life thinking, “I can go to college, make good grades, graduate, get hired and retire after 20-30 years from that same company,” would be foolish; there’s no such thing as job security anymore. And with the national unemployment rate at 9.7%, teens have started to realize • After months of barely making ends that they have to make their own living meet, high school dropout and web and their own opportunities; and their Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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doing just that. In a recent article, JA Worldwide printed, “70.9% of teens say they are interested in becoming entrepreneurs; up from 64% in 2004.”

(3) In this new generation of business any inspiring entrepreneur can look into any field of business and have someone great who’s already blazed a trail in that field. Having examples of startup

companies like YouTube.com, Facebook.com and Google.com and major corporations like Microsoft and Apple who started from an entrepreneur’s idea and through hard work has, in many ways, help shape America. These examples give young entrepreneurs inspiration, motivation and are great examples to follow.

As this world continues to evolve, the methods in how we do things will continue to evolve. Through technology, economic changes and countless examples of individuals who have made it, this has created a change in the image of the everyday entrepreneur and has inspired a new, younger generation of entrepreneurs.

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Only Your

Expectation Matters

By Kai Ajala Dupe CEO of Kai Dupe Productions, LLC I can remember being a sophomore in high school. I was a C student and no one expected me to go to college or do anything special after I graduated. In fact, at this point, I had no plans of attending college. My goal was to graduate high school and get a job. I hated school. I was not having a good time and I certainly did not feel that I was learning anything useful.

Until one day everyone in school was required to take this test called the PSAT. If memory serves PSAT was an acronym for Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test. The test is designed to measures one’s ability to be successful in college. Evidently, I scored well on this test because once I received my scores I was summoned to my counselor’s office.

I will never forget her. Her name was Sylvia Cucino. Mrs. Cucino wanted to know why I was a C student when I was able to score so well on the PSAT. My response was that I was required to take this test so I did. As for as my grades are concerned, I only needed a C average to graduate and my goal was to graduate. I was confused by her question. I did not see the inconsistency.

I remember her asking me, “What are your plans after high school? “ I said I plan to get a good job and live a great life. She said really, what is a great life?

I responded well I want a big house.

I would also like a nice car. I like the Porsche. I want to dress nice and be able to take vacations twice a year. And oh yeah I want a beautiful wife.

Mrs. Cucino nodded her head while Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

I was speaking and she giggled at my beautiful wife requirement. She told me that I need to get a pretty good job to be able to afford that kind of a life and that usually those kinds of jobs go to college graduates and not high school graduates.

Now she had my attention. Message received. It was time to reset my goals to match my expectations.

It was not that she had low expectations for me that had changed that energized me to work harder. It was that my expectations for myself had changed because I now motivation to change my goal and expectations for myself. What she did was provide me with more information.

This is what it is all about. We all have what is needed within us to be successful. We just need to get our minds right. This is something that I think is sorely missing with our young people today. They need guidance and direction.

They can set their goals.

They can achieve their goals and set their own expectations. We simply need to make them aware of the consequences of their actions. I have never felt that I exceed expectations or achieved more when I was limited. I never feel limited.

I can do anything anyone else can do regardless of the situation. Once you learn that you are unstoppable.

Kai Ajala Dupé is a doctoral candidate at Pepperdine University where he is conducting research on why African American males are underrepresented in computing. He is an advocate for the use of technology in communities of color and an advocate for helping African American men maximize their potential. www.

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Growing at the Speed of Thought

BY DR. D. L. JONES, Contributing Writer

The wise man Solomon said “as a man thinketh, so is he.” The truth is that we can only grow as far as we think. If we think low, we live low. If a person thinks of himself as ugly, he will see himself as ugly. If one thinks of himself as rich than he will think and grow rich according to the renowned motivational speaker and author Napoleon Hill.

thinks monkey do.”

4. Manage your time. There are twenty-four hours in the day for everyone. The wealthy and the poor all have the same amount of time-the difference is in how they use their time. There is magic in writing down what you wish to accomplish. Start today by writing down your plan for success. Make a list that supports your plan along with all the necessary tasks that will assure the completion of it. Your subconscious mind needs to see all the day-to-day accomplishments.

mind in bringing thoughts into action.

I know what you are thinking, “how does a person feed the subconscious mind for success?”

There are five sure ways to feed your subconscious mind that will produce a 5. Be grateful. Having gratitude allife of successful actions. low us to realize the blessings we 1. Be the gatekeeper of everything already have and keeps us open to that enters your mind. It is important to know that everything you see, hear, think and feel goes directly into your subconscious mind and you must manage the information you allow in. Eliminate negative information as much as you can by limiting the amount of negative news you absorb. Stop listening to negative friends or family members, read positive motivating literature.

When you saturate your mind with positive information your subconscious mind will naturally become more positive, producing positive actions.

receive so much more. Make a list of everything you are grateful for and grow this list as time goes on. Your subconscious mind needs to know what you are grateful for so it can manifest more of the same for you.

Dr. D. L. Jones

There’s an undisputed truth that if 2. Surround yourself with positive people. Negative people can quickyou free your mind, the rest will follow; ly lead to negative thoughts. Make thoughts are manifested into action. sure your group of friends are those It’s true that our thoughts become that love and admire you for the our actions. As I alluded to earlier, if great person you are. Eliminate time you grew up poor and you continue spent with anyone who brings you to tell yourself that you will always be down. Get rid of those who tolerate poor, then you will be poor. If you think you and not celebrate you. If you you’ll never lose weight, your subconwant to excel in life you must simscious mind will register that thought ply exchange your negative friends and chances are you will always be overfor positive friends that will pour weight. You have the power to change positive thoughts into your subconthose negative thoughts into positive scious mind. thoughts that will produce positive actions. You can form new beliefs, which 3. Surround yourself with your fawill result in new behavior. You are vorite things. Begin today placing constantly talking to yourself on a daily your favorite things in full view in basis right now. So why not turn those your home. Whether these be famnegative thoughts into positive ones! ily pictures, treasures from your You control your own destiny! travels, your dream home or car, The best way to start changing your your dream career or the person you thoughts is to focus on what you want; aspire to become, always keep these be specific. Your subconscious doesn’t things visible. The amazing thing know the difference between fact and about our subconscious mind is fiction, so whatever you want to do or that it never sleeps. Remember, the be when you focus your thoughts on it subconscious mind can’t differentiyour actions become a manifestation of ate between fact and fiction. It operyour thoughts. Your subconscious mind ates on the principle of “monkey see is more powerful than your conscious monkey do” or better said “monkey Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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31.

The Secret to Optimistic Thinking…

BY CARLA LANE, Contributing Writer

ceed. Furthermore, the law of averages look for future business success. suggests that bad luck cannot continue Finally, here are a few facts that alindefinitely. Abraham Lincoln lost seven ways get my engine going! elections before winning the presidency.

Einstein was 4 years old before he could speak.

Tip 2 Issac Newton did poorly in grade Find your optimism role model. school and was considered “unpromBarack Obama, John McCain, and Bill Clinton are all champions of opti- ising.”

When Thomas Edison was a youngmistic thinking, but my favorite is Pete Carroll, Head Coach of the USC foot- ster, his teacher told him he was too stuball team. In his interview on 60 Min- pid to learn anything. He was counseled utes (CBS, December 17, 2008), he to go into a field where he might succeed said, “I keep thinking, day to day, that by virtue of his pleasant personality.

F.W. Woolworth got a job in a dry something good is just about to hapgoods store when he was 21, but his boss pen... I don’t know how to think otherwise.” Before his success at USC, Coach would not permit him to wait on cusCarroll faced considerable adversity, get- tomers because he “didn’t have enough ting fired after one year as an NFL head sense to close a sale.”

Michael Jordan was cut from his coach, following 17 years as an assistant trying to get that job. At the time, he high school basketball team.

Bob Cousy suffered the same fate, said it was the best thing that ever happened to him. That’s the kind of reckless but he too is a Hall of Famer.

A newspaper editor fired Walt Disoptimism we need in bad times. ney because he “lacked imagination and Tip 3 had no original ideas.”

Good things can grow out of seemingly bad situations.

Re-define success and “positive” events. Most people don’t consider job loss positive, but if it leads to better opportunities or strengthening of character in the end, then losing a job must be considered lucky. Even declining business can be positive. Creativity, motivation, effort, teamwork, solidarity, and inventiveness often flourish following economic declines, and these often generate new products or services that out-earn their predecessors.

With this economy, it’s easy to begin to feel as if we should just accept whatever comes. I mean in these times, who could expect to actually grow a business? To find a better job? To increase your stock portfolio? Just look at the headlines, even the government has a huge deficit! How can you help but to feel the pinch?

Well I have a little secret I’d like to share, to find job opportunities or generate business during a recession, it is more important than ever to build motivation, positive energy, and “likeability.” Optimistic thinking, or constantly expecting positive outcomes, can jumpstart these qualities. Optimism is infectious, and feeds success.

I know, I know, it is quite ugly.

Some say it’s getting better, some say it’s not, whichever camp you subscribe to, if you are going to win, you have to believe that you can!

So, in an effort to assist you in ob- Tip 4 taining that optimistic feeling, here are a Optimism means always moving few of my “Keep It Moving Girl” Tips!! forward.

Stay in the moment, and focus on Tip 1 Look hard enough, and you will daily efforts rather than outcomes like employment offers or increased business. always find a silver lining.

Un-learn pessimism, and reject the No one gets a job offer every day, but strategy of lowering expectations to anyone can conduct an on-line search, prevent disappointment. Life is full of develop leads and contacts, write (and disappointments. Trying to avoid dis- request in return) recommendations on appointment, by failing to ever set ex- LinkedIn, practice presentation and inpectations, only leads to more unhappi- terviewing skills, and give themselves a ness. A string of failed goals or bad luck boost of confidence in the process. Likecan also prompt a person to conclude, wise, no business grows daily, but put“Things just don’t work out for me.” In ting the necessary efforts into marketing, reality, past misfortune has no bearing networking, creating, producing, and on future success, assuming a person continuously improving is destined to is making the necessary efforts to suc- get results, and validates a hopeful outMar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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Winston Churchill failed the 6th grade and had to repeat it because he did not complete the tests that were required for promotion.

Babe Ruth struck out 1,300 times, a major league record.

A person may make mistakes, but is not a failure until he or she starts blaming someone else. We must believe in ourselves, and somewhere along the road of life we will meet someone who sees greatness in us and lets us know it.

There is Greatness In You!

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Colon Cancer

BY DR. OLUFUNKE ODETUNDE

Dr. Olufunke Odetunde In observance of the National they become cancerous) or detected earColorectal Cancer Awareness Month ly, when it can be more easily and sucthe article this month will focus on Co- cessfully treated. lon Cancer.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of non-skin cancer in Introduction men (after prostate cancer and lung canColorectal cancer is cancer of the cer) and in women (after breast cancer colon or rectum. It is equally com- and lung cancer). It is the second leadmon in men and women. An estimated ing cause of cancer death in the United 146,970 people will be diagnosed in States after lung cancer. (1) 2009, and an estimated 49,920 people will die from the disease. With recom- Minorities and Colorectal mended screening, this cancer can be Cancer prevented (by removing polyps before Alaska Natives and American Indi-

ans, African-Americans and Hispanics are more likely to be diagnosed with colorectal cancer in advanced stages.

As a result, the percentage of minorities who die of colorectal cancer is higher than for Caucasians.

After Alaska Natives, the next highest rates in men are among Japanese, African-American and non-Hispanic white populations. These are followed

by Chinese, Hawaiians and white Hispanics; then Filipinos, Koreans and Vietnamese.

In women, Alaska Natives are followed by African-Americans, Japanese and non-Hispanic white Americans.

Next are Chinese, Hawaiians and Vietnamese; and finally white Hispanics, Koreans and Filipinos.

At Risk • Men and women age 50 and older Symptoms • People who use tobacco, are obese Early stages of colorectal cancer do or are sedentary not usually have symptoms. Advanced • People with a personal or family hisdisease may cause: tory of colorectal cancer or benign • Rectal bleeding or blood in or on (not cancerous) colorectal polyps the stool • People with a personal or family • Change in bowel habits or stools history of inflammatory bowel disthat are narrower than usual ease, such as long standing ulcer• Stomach discomfort (bloating, fullative colitis or Crohn’s disease ness or cramps) • People with a family history of in• Diarrhea, constipation or feeling herited colorectal cancer that the bowel does not empty completely Risk Reduction • Weight loss for no apparent reason • Be physically active and exercise • Constant fatigue regularly.

• Vomiting • Maintain a healthy weight.

• Eat a high-fiber diet rich in fruits, Treatment vegetables, nuts, beans and whole Surgery is the most common treatgrains. ment. When the cancer has spread, che• Consume calcium-rich foods like motherapy or radiation therapy is given low-fat or skim milk. before or after surgery.

• Limit red meat consumption and avoid processed meats.

Source: 2010 National Health Obser• Don’t smoke. vances, National Health Information • Don’t drink alcohol excessively.

Center, Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, U.S. Department of Early Detection If you are at average risk for colorec- Health and Human Services, Washingtal cancer, start having regular screening ton, DC.” at age 50. If you are at greater risk, you may need to begin regular screening National Cancer Institute, U.S. Nationat an earlier age. The best time to get al Institutes of Health. www.cancer.gov screened is before any symptoms appear.

Health care providers may suggest American Cancer Society (2008). one or more of the following tests for Cancer Facts and Figures 2008. Atcolorectal cancer screening: Consult lanta, GA: American Cancer Sociwith your healthcare provider to dis- ety. Retrieved August 10, 2008, from cuss the screening intervals, advantages http://www.cancer.org/downloads/ and disadvantages, including poten- STT/2008CAFFfinalsecured.pdf tial harms, of specific colorectal cancer screening tests.

Olufunke Odetunde MD FAAFP Board Certified Family Medicine

Available screening methods include: • Fecal occult blood test (FOBT) • Sigmoidoscopy • Colonoscopy • Virtual colonoscopy • Double contrast barium enema (DCBE) • Digital rectal exam (DRE) Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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Olufunke Odetunde MD. PA. 2626 South Loop West, Suite #310 Houston, Texas 77054 Phone: (713) 796-9500 Website: www.odetundemd.com To subscribe to e-newsletters from Olufunke Odetunde MD visit www. odetundemd.com 34.

THE EXPERT NETWORK

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Should your business be on Facebook?

You’ve probably heard a lot about Facebook and how it is the place to be for social networking. So why then, should a business owner be interested in setting up and maintaining a Facebook Fan Page? (A Fan Page is a profile for a business or organization rather than for an individual.) The answer is simple. Even if members have no intention of buying anything on Facebook, the relationships you establish and community you build there can benefit your business in countless ways. Here are just a few:

Fan Pages are public-facing by default; that is, people need not be logged into Facebook to view a business’s or brand’s Fan Page, so even more people have access to the information you post.

Establishes another avenue for your business on the web

Allows you to engage with your community easily and for free A Facebook Fan Page provides a free alternative to implementing customer engagement on your own site. In minutes, you can have a branded Fan Page where customers and can post to your Facebook Wall, share photos and video, links, ask and answer questions, and interact with you and one another.

Creating and managing a Fan Page,

Creating a Fan Page provides your business and brands with another branding outpost on the Web where prospective customers, future employees, vendors, and even the media can find information about your company and the products and services you offer. Unlike Facebook’s personal Profiles, which are member-only accessible, Facebook Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

Drives Traffic to Your Website Fan Pages have no restrictions on driving Facebook traffic to websites. In fact, Facebook encourages you to link your Fan Page to your website. Facebook gets a huge amount of traffic. Redirecting even a small portion of that to your business site, could translate into sales.

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complete with a Discussions tab, is easier than launching and monitoring discussion forums or message boards on your own domain.

Direct connection A Facebook Fan Page gives you a direct pipeline to your Fans. You can send messages to Fans all at once or target individuals or groups by country, state, city, gender, and even age range. Using the Events App, you can even schedule special events or promotions and then send invitations to only those Fans who live in or near the town where the event is scheduled to take place.

Strengthens customer relations You can strengthen your relationships with customers by connecting with them in a social setting as opposed to a business setting. Facebook members may not shop on Facebook, but 90 percent of them expect the businesses and organizations they deal with to have a Facebook Fan Page.

Allows you to keep pace with the competition free of charge

If you still aren’t a Facebook fan, then think about your competition. Even if only one of your competitors launches a successful Fan Page, that competitor can corner the market on Facebook and build a following long before you do.

Stake your free claim early to establish your business as the industry leader before the competition has a chance.

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Not the same old tax return – new rules for this year’s tax season

Exceeding Expectations

BY VICTOR WALKER, CPA, JD Contributing Writer Few things induce more anxiety this time of year than the looming April 15 tax return file deadline. As you begin the process this year, keep in mind that changes to the tax rules could affect your tax liability and possibly make you eligible for new tax reduction opportunities. More details can be found at the Internal Revenue Service website (www. irs.gov) or by talking to your tax advisor. Here are some of the more prominent changes that could affect your final 2009 tax bill: Homebuyer Tax Credit -- This has been one of the most highly publicized changes of the past year. First-time homebuyers—i.e. those who have not owned a principal residence for the three years prior to purchase—may be eligible for up to an $8,000 tax credit. (A credit is a dollar-for-dollar reduction of your tax bill). Generally, the purchase must have been completed in 2009 to qualify for the tax credit on your 2009 return.

However, the credit will continue to be available for new home purchases under written contract by April 30, 2010 and closed by June 30, 2010. A special election exists to claim the 2010 purchase on your 2009 tax return. A similar credit of up to $6,500 is available for existing homeowners who purchased a replacement home. This credit applies only for purchases made after November 6, 2009 and by the above deadlines. To qualify, existing homeowners must have owned and used the same home as their principal residence for five consecutive years in the eight-year period prior to the purchase of a new home. Note that income and other limits apply to qualify for both credits. If your tax liability is less than the amount of the credit, you still qualify to receive the entire credit in the form of a refund.

per student attending a four-year college is available (for taxpayers who meet income and other requirements). If the credit is more than your income tax liability in 2009 and 2010, 40 percent of it can be returned as a refund. To learn more about the American Opportunity Tax Credit, visit www.irs.gov.

your U.S. residence. A similar credit with maximum credit limits exists for the installation of qualified fuel cell property in your principal residence.

Also, 30 percent of the cost, up to an aggregate of $1,500, is provided for energy-saving home improvements such as qualified windows, outside doors, insulation, roofing, high-efficiency furnaces, water heaters, heat pumps, biomass fuel stoves, air circulating fans, and central air conditioners that are placed in your U.S. principal residence in 2009 and 2010.

Making Work Pay Tax Credit -- Many employees saw a slight reduction in the amount of tax withholding from their paychecks earlier in the year, an adjustment made due to the Making Work Pay Tax Credit. The credit amount is 6.2 percent of the taxpayer’s earned OTHER POINTERS AS income up to a maximum of $400 for APRIL 15 APPROACHES a single tax filer and $800 for married As you prepare for the tax filing couples filing a joint return. The credit deadline, here are a few things you can must be claimed on your tax return. If do today to help make the process easier: the credit has not already been reflected in your paycheck or if you are self-em- • Gather your records – if you haven’t already, you should be receiving stateployed and have not accounted for the ments from banks, investment firms credit, you will adjust the amount of and mortgage companies with tax your tax liability as you complete your information. Keep it filed in one safe 2009 tax return. Income limits apply to place. Make sure you receive W-2s or qualify for the credit.

1099s (reporting income received) Sales Tax Deduction for the Purchase from employers or firms you may of New Vehicles -- If you purchased have contracted with. a new car, motor home, light truck or • Determine your most efficient way motorcycle between February 16, 2009 to complete a return – there are nuand December 31, 2009, the sales or exmerous software programs available, cise tax amount you paid can be deductmany of which are accessible online, ed from your income even if you do not to complete the job. Or make sure itemize deductions (a deduction reduces you have your accountant or tax preyour taxable income and, as a result, the parer in place and ready to deliver a amount of tax you pay). timely return.

Energy Tax Credits -- Various credits • Take more time if you need it, but tied to making homes more energy eflet the IRS know – you can receive ficient are available. These include a an automatic six-month extension tax credit valued at 30 percent of the by filing form 4868 with the IRS by amount paid for qualified solar water the April 15 deadline to avoid interheating equipment, solar electric equipest and potential penalties. You must make payment for any tax that may be Tax Credit for Post-Secondary Edu- ment, small wind energy property, or due by April 15. cation -- A tax credit of up to $2,500 geothermal heat pumps installed in Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

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Do you sometimes wonder if you’re setting yourself up for failure before even trying for success? How many times have you said, “Okay. I’ll try this, but I don’t think it’s going to work” or “I don’t know why I’m bothering because I don’t think it’ll work.” Sure, you give it a skeptical shot and when your attempt doesn’t produce miraculous results, you throw up your hands and say, “See? I told you it wouldn’t work!”

Give your all to something you don’t believe in is hard. Most people aren’t willing to risk failure, embarrassment or loss on the chance that success, pride and gain might occur. You may want all these wonderful things, but you aren’t willing to take risks to achieve goals. You avoid potential success because potential failure is worse.

But keep in mind that if you don’t take chances, you’re stunting your own growth. You won’t learn a new skill.

You won’t get that website up and running. You won’t get that business off the ground. You won’t go out and tell people how great you are. You won’t earn more clients or more money. You’ll have trouble branding yourself and marketing your business.

Without risk, without taking a step into the unknown, you can never achieve better than what you have right now. Do you believe that you will meet (or exceed) client expectations? Most likely. You tell clients to have faith in you. You know your job.

You ask them to believe in you – and you don’t even believe in yourself.

Fear of getting hurt is a powerful motivator to do nothing. What if you took a deep breath and threw yourself out there, wholeheartedly embracing possibility with open arms? What’s the worst that could happen? You fall down? If so, just pick yourself up, dust yourself off, and go at it again. Sooner or later, success will be the end result!

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Saving Money

BY ELIZABETH POPE Contributing Writer

like food, gas or entertainment.

“Cash has a face value, so it feels more real, more transparent,” Raghubir says. “There’s a little pain attached to Americans are snapping their wal- parting with it.” lets shut and socking money away amid Track every cent economic doldrums. The nation’s perFred Ecks, 43, of Boulder, Colo., sonal savings rate—hovering at zero just learned long ago to live on half his two years ago—has risen to about five gross income from investments. In the percent—the highest rate in 15 years, mid-1990s, the former computer proaccording to the U.S. Commerce De- grammer slashed spending to pay down partment. $12,000 in credit card debt. He banked Experts say paying down debt and half his salary, investing it mostly in saving more is a sensible response to bonds. He was so thrifty, he would eat job layoffs, declining home prices and at home before joining friends at a resdwindling 401(k)s. Smart people, par- taurant, then just order a beverage. ticularly those age 50-plus, are going to “I didn’t get money from my parhave to save. “If you don’t want to work ents or hit it big in stock options or win forever, ultimately you’ll be responsible the lottery,” he says. “I just saved the for paying for retirement,” says Dal- majority of every paycheck for years. It’s las L. Salisbury, CEO of the Employee not very sexy, but it sure does add up.”

Benefit Research Institute (EBRI).

These days, Ecks says, he volunStill, saving money seems like diet- teers about half time and goofs off a lot. ing. You know you should do it, but it He lives “like a king” on about $1,200 isn’t a lot of fun. “Financial entertain- a month, including $609 on entertainment”—programs, incentives, games ment and electronics, $300 for food— and devices that make thriftiness more he cooks at home—and $93 for health fun—can help ease the pain. Here’s how: insurance. He has a bike instead of a

Keep the Change

Watch the pennies, and the dollars will take care of themselves. American households have an estimated $10 billion in spare change stashed in jars and piggy banks, according to Coinstar, maker of coin-counting products.

For years, Akron, Ohio, welder Wesley Lance, 63, emptied his pockets into a growing collection of coffee cans. When Lance’s credit union waived coin-sorting fees during Roll Your Change week last year, his wife, Linda, 59, a bakery worker, hauled 20 cans into the bank using a child’s red wagon.

The teller announced the mounting total as she fed the sorting machine.

“Everybody stared at me while the teller called out, $1,000 … $2,000 … $3,000,” says Linda. “It was just like winning at the slot machines in Las Vegas.” The final tally—$4,120.18—was a shock. “If we’d known we had that much, we’d have stuck it in a CD.” Meanwhile, it’s stuck away safely, waiting for interest rates to go up.

Pay Cash Stash your credit and debit cards and pay cash for purchases—you’ll spend up to 20 percent less, studies show. Credit cards, gift certificates and debit cards are like Monopoly money, says Priya Raghubir of New York University’s Stern School of Business. However, if credit cards are a necessity, she suggests keeping a record of expenses by categories Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

ues about hard work and money, says Nathan Dungan, author of Prodigal Sons and Material Girls: How Not to Be Your Child’s ATM. “Grandparents can play an important role in passing on values like thrift, saving for a rainy day, deferring gratification and surviving bumps along the road,” says Dungan, who founded Share-Save-Spend, a nonprofit that teaches financial literacy.

Many families have difficulty discussing money, says Dungan, but grandparents can tell children things a parent can’t. “You can’t just tell these stories once,” adds Dungan.

on the website and file reports on their progress saving for college, a new home or a business start-up.

“These stories of people who are at the bottom of society’s pyramid can inspire us all to be better savers,” says Dylan Higgins, CEO and founder of SaveTogether.

SaveTogether.org will soon include a map of local programs that sponsor Individual Development Accounts, Go automatic Pay yourself first. “Save automatimatched savings accounts for the workcally on a regular basis, either through ing poor. a workplace retirement plan or on your Tell your story own,” says Steve Brobeck of the ConIn her first job, Marylyn Ervin, 73, sumer Federation of America. “Instruct made 50 cents an hour working for the your bank or credit union to transfer telephone company. “I saved up and a modest amount every month or pay bought my first new winter coat. That period.” was such a big thing, because before I’d Congress may pass a law requiring always worn hand-me-downs,” says Er- businesses to offer individual retirement vin, who was one of 12 children on a accounts, which would help people Depression-era farm. without a workplace plan. Meanwhile, Now co-owner of a successful fami- save 15 cents of every dollar earned, ly grocery store in Morganfield, Ky., Er- pretend that money doesn’t exist, and vin enjoys telling her 23 grandchildren live off the rest, says EBRI’s Dallas L. childhood tales of getting only one toy Salisbury. “After a few years, when you at Christmas or using a kitchen dishpan see how much you’ve saved, that’s what’s as a sled. Telling stories to children and really matters.” car. He paid cash for his house, a three- grandchildren helps transmit family valbedroom, one-bath bungalow. He tracks every penny to eliminate mindless expenditures. “A Starbucks cappuccino costs $4—but how much will I enjoy it?” he says.

Think about what makes you happy, says Avi Karnani, vice president of strategic innovation at LendingTree. com. “Choose your smiles and cries, we say. Sure, you can bring coffee from home, but maybe a Starbucks latte reminds you of your former work life and energizes you for the job hunt.”

Avoid status purchases, he adds— shared experiences bring more happiness than material goods. For free online tools to help track expenses and save money, check out MoneyRight at LendingTree.com.

Match your money For those who already know the joy of saving regularly, a new nonprofit, SaveTogether, makes it easy to spread the message while helping others reach their financial goals. Using an online philanthropy model, SaveTogether helps low-wage individuals triple their savings through the power of matched savings accounts.

Here’s how it works: A saver puts aside $25, a donor makes a secure, taxdeductible $25 donation on the website, which is then matched by $25 from government and participating nonprofits. Prescreened savers are profiled www.

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Inexpensive marketing Times are hard and you might find yourself struggling to keep on attracting new clients to your business. And although it is quite tempting, one area where you most definitely don’t want to cut is in your marketing budget, not unless you want to start losing your client base. If you want to survive these difficult times and remain on top, you have to start thinking of clever ways to promote your business. That doesn’t mean you have to come up with costly collaterals such as catalog printing or print brochures so that you can have as many leads as possible. There are other cost-effective ways to go about marketing other than your print catalogs.

Here is how: Market with thank you note cards. You can always purchase a pile of them at discount shops, and then send them to your loyal clients just to let them know that you appreciate the business they provide you. Handwrite the message to make it more personal.

And end with a wish for their success and well-being.

Become an expert. Write articles on your expertise. If you are in catalog printing, then write articles on how to print catalogs that work and then submit these articles on websites. The more people who will be able to read your Mar. 20 - apr. 20 2010

articles, the more chances of your expertise to get you the leads you need for your client base.

Share information. This time, if you found a great article, you can share it with your customers that will appreciate such information. It will show that you are interested in them, so much so that you are keeping tabs of what can provide them solutions to some of their issues.

Go to the people. This is the most basic means to get in touch with your target clients. Just go ahead, pick up the phone and dial that number. Ask for feedback on current marketing campaigns or the ones you did for them last year. By getting in touch, you will be able to generate new business and revive old ones in the process.

Network, network, network. Go to events and attend trade show exhibits. But bear in mind that networking is not about getting as many business cards as you can. Networking is about making connections and forming working relationships that can help you grow your business.

These are just a few of the ways to market your business that won’t break the bank. You just have to be creative in finding out the means to promote what you have according to your budget to generate leads for your business. www.

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