aadecisivefall2009loressinglepages

d

Premiere Issue!

DECISIVE

®

Fall 2009

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News

Medical Experts Reveal The Truth About Obama’s Health Care Plan (p. 19) Also Inside: Our Experts Show You How To: > Feast Without Gaining Weight (p. 16) > Enjoy Summer in December (p. 14) > Decorate Like A Designer (p. 12) > Preserve Your Family’s Heritage (p. 7) > Create A Sustainable Christmas Tree (p. 6) > And Much, Much, More…

How to:

Make free phone calls

Carry 150 books

Never Get Lost Again

Get your complimentary digital subscription at decisivemagazine.com

d

DECISIVE The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News

premier issue! | Volume 15 | Issue 1 | fall 2009

Publisher: Randi Payton Editor-in-Chief: Lyndon Conrad Bell.

Editorial Director: Joyce Gates Art Director: Fran Sherman Editors-at-Large: Mary M. Chapman, Christopher Jackson, Valerie Menard Senior Editors: Warren Brown, Brian Armstead contributing writers: Cecil Hayes, Darren Hardy, Hannah Keeley, Ali Pena, Multimedia Manager: Thuan Ngo On Wheels Media, Inc. Headquarters: 1522 Pointer Ridge Place, Suite I Bowie, MD 20716 T. 301.390.1823 • F. 301.390.9144 President & CEO: Randi Payton Vice President: Karen Payton Production/Distribution: Joyce Gates Business Manager: Damon Redmond Sales Director: Karen Payton

features:

12 14 16 18

National Account Manager: Leonard Corbin Event Director: Rosiland Triche

Cecil Hayes Cures Colorblindness!

Cecil Hayes, one of America’s top interior designers, shows us how to incorporate color in our homes to refresh, enhance, and energize any room.

Snow in Your Shoes?

Mid-Winter Blues? Head South!

Latin-America travel expert Ali Pena, reminds us it’s summer in December south of the border, and ID’s three fabulous resorts guaranteed to lift your spirits.

Holiday Feasting With No Weight Gain?

Fitness expert Wendy Ida enjoys those fabulous holiday meals just like everyone else – except – she does it without gaining weight. And, she tells you how.

On The Cover: Death Panels and Free Care For Illegal Aliens?

A lot of mis-information is circulating about the President’s health care plan, much of it designed to confuse and mislead you into accepting the status quo. DECISIVE’s medical experts reveal the truth.

Content Specialist: David Payton DECISIVE magazine © 2009 is published four times annually as a newspaper-delivered publication and digital e-magazine by On Wheels Multi-Media, Inc. Your complete resource for research and opinion on consumer products and services.

Visit us at www.DecisiveMagazine.com, email us at: Comments@OnWheelsInc.com.

Membership applied for October 2009

departments:

07 08

04 Personal Technology 06 Living Green 07 Family 08 Pets 09 Gifts 10 Entertainment 20 Nutrition 22 Business/Finance

beginning

2

publisher’s page

a new

In July of 1995, we launched African Americans On Wheels magazine.

It was a first in a lot of ways; the first national automotive magazine for African Americans, the first auto magazine to have a Web site, the first minority magazine to secure luxury vehicle advertising, and our first publication. Since then we’ve launched Latinos On Wheels, Asians On Wheels, a number of significant events, e-newsletters, digital magazines, and a nonprofit organization to train students in communications and marketing.

Even with all of that success however, our job never ends. You are now reading the next phase of our evolution, DECISIVE magazine. Just as AAOW gives you the tools you need to make decisions about vehicles, DECISIVE magazine and its experts will provide you with decision-making information on a broad array of consumer products and services from a cultural perspective.

African Americans On Wheels was created to educate people of color about the car buying process, diversity in the auto industry and automotive products and services in general. DECISIVE will provide similar information on other industries, but with more tips and how-to content.

and “Ask the Experts” for advice.

The digital version of the magazines will continue to be free, with enhanced digital features that include video, audio, animated ads, interactive editorial, and embedded Web sites you can browse without leaving the digital magazines.

The DECISIVE tag line is “The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News”, which we intend to live up to, without a doubt. Also, you can expect to see more award shows and consumer events.

We intend to honor more industries for advancing diversity as well as providing more safety and financial information and services to you.

Our goal is to stimulate diversity in these other industries as we did the automotive industry and drive more support back to our communities.

When the consumer understands that information is power, companies will no longer ignore your buying power.

I do hope you enjoy DECISIVE. Please visit our new Web site and get your subscription to the digital version of our magazines, and please, share this with your family and friends.

—Randi Payton, Publisher

The DECISIVEmagazine.com web site is a hub of resources that will help you process buying decisions. You will find everything you need in one place, including the ability to make purchases. In addition, you will be able to comment on articles Index to Advertisers Cover II: State Farm - www.statefarm.com p. 3: Bridgestone - www.bridgestonetire.com p. 11: Good Hair - www.GoodHairMovie.net

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

p. 21: Allstate - www.allstate.net p. 24: Urban Wheel Awards www.urbanwheelawards.com

Experience the all new online

DECISIVE MULTIMEDIA The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News Decisivemagazine.com

> Expert Advice on Products & Services > Blogging with the Experts & Editors > 411 Product Tips & How to Content > Health & Fitness > Beauty & Fashion > Travel > Technology > Home & Garden > Business & Finance > Entertainment > Car Buying Services SSUBSCRIBE TO E-NEWSLETTERS AND FREE DIGITAL E-MAGAZINES

dDECISIVE

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News

technology

personal Written by brian armstead

technology

2010’s Top Tech Electronics have become an indispensable part of our lives. Whether you’re looking to communicate, be entertained or simply find your way, these devices are four of DECISIVE’s tech expert Brian Armstead’s favorites going into 2010:

Garmin nuvi 1490:

You see them stuck to everybody else’s windshields, but you know where you’re going, right? Fact is even the most road ready among us can benefit from GPS road mapping technology. Garmin’s nuvi 1490T features Bluetooth for hands-free calling, lifetime free traffic alerts, and a highly legible five-inch screen. ($499.95 www.garmin.com)

Magic Jack:

For only $19.95 a year, you can use the Magic Jack to make calls anywhere in the U.S. for free using your computer and high-speed Internet connection. And if you are an international traveler, use the Magic Jack to call back to the States from any country for free. It’s small enough to fit in your pocket, but will save you big money on long distance. (www.magicjack.com)

amazon kindle:

Love to read books and magazines? You should own a Kindle. At .34” thin and 10.2 oz. light, it’s a worthy road or home companion.

Download the latest bestsellers using built-in 3G capability, and you can read the first few chapters free to entice you to buy. The Kindle can hold up to 1500 books. ($299.00 www. amazon.com)

Samsung LED Televisions:

I watched the movie “The Perfect Storm” on a Samsung LED TV, and ran out of the room when a rogue wave appeared on the screen. Ok, I’m joking, but you’ll be hard pressed to find a more realistic hi-definition set. Light Emitting Diodes are the next big thing in HDTV and oh, by the way the set’s only 1.2” thin! ($1499-$3899 depending on size and features from www.samsung.com/LED)

Brian Armstead has few peers when it comes to dissecting the latest in personal hi-tech. If it involves the transfer of electrons for the enhancement of your day-to-day, at some point Brian has plugged it in for his weekly “Road Gear” column in the Baltimore Sun. Armstead is also a worldwide radio personality, co-hosting the On Wheels with Warren Brown Webcast live every Sunday at noon eastern at wmet1160.com.

4

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Explosive sound.

Sony ® Xplod® GT Series car stereos deliver a sonic punch like you’ve never heard before. Throw in Xplod amps and subwoofers and you’ve got a system that not only thumps, it detonates.

Learn more at sony.com/xplod

© 2009 Sony Electronics Inc. Sony, Xplod and the Sony logo are trademarks of Sony.

green

the perfect

tree

C

How To Create A sustainable Christmas Tree

hristmas trees are often the focal point of a well-decorated home during the holidays. Happily, it’s easy to create a beautiful and fun Christmas tree, with minimal impact on the environment, while saving enough money for presents.

First, you’ll need a Christmas tree. To get more tree for your money, consider an artificial tree. They are available in all shapes, sizes and materials, and they can easily be stored after the holidays for use year after year. Once you have your tree up, make it sparkle with lights. Choose between a variety of colors or white lights. Check discount stores such as Dollar General for inexpensive lights that will make your tree beautiful and bright.

For a sophisticated look, decorate your tree according to a theme, such as a food or candy motif. Hang candy canes, popcorn and candy garlands, which can be made by stringing hard candies like Life Savers on fishing wire. Or focus on special interests such as sports, traveling or gardening. Decorate a tree with your favorite sports team’s memorabilia and colors.

Keep your tree simple by choosing one or two colors for the tree’s décor.

For kids, decorate with their favorite color. Make tissue-paper flowers to place on your tree. All you need is tissue paper and pipe cleaners. Instructions can be found online at www.craftjr. com.

For a tree that will help you remember the good times, hang mementos that you’ve collected throughout the year instead of traditional, often expensive ornaments. Choose knick-knacks from family vacations, party pictures, favors from weddings or showers, or kids’ arts and crafts projects. Hang holiday greeting cards from family and friends on your tree. To turn these trinkets into ornaments, glue or attach ornament hangers to each item. Your tree will be a reminder of the fun shared throughout the year.

For a more international feel, use inexpensive wrapping paper to make origami cranes -- symbols of peace. Paper birds of all sizes will look beautiful on your tree and can be a fun project for the whole family.

For directions on making numerous origami shapes, visit www.origami-instructions.com.d D

6

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

familyhistory

family

give your loved ones the gift of

How To Create A Festive Christmas Trees for Less

The holidays are here again, bringing families together for egg nog, cookies and holiday merriment.

And while you may enjoy seeing your family, their visits bring stress—what in the world are you going to give them this year? ?

Clothes, music and gift cards will be halfway forgotten by New Year’s Eve, and you don’t have an enormous budget to work with.

But don’t despair! Ancestry.com offers these ideas for family-centric gifts, which more truly celebrate the meaning of the season: • Consider creating a personalized family history book on Ancestry. com. Your family will, no doubt, treasure a beautifully bound book chronicling the lives of your family members and documenting your family heritage. Scan old family photographs and documents for your book. Create a free family tree online, and then import your family tree into your book.

• Give a family member a DNA kit. The history buffs in your family will love the thrill of a DNA kit, which will allow them to discover their ancient ancestry. Through a simple cheek swab DNA test, they can connect with distant genetic cousins and learn the story of their genetic past.

• Make sure that everyone can recreate Grandma’s recipes.

Family recipe books are a great way to organize all of those favorite family recipes. Create a personalized family recipe book,

including Uncle George’s apple cider donuts and Aunt Shirley’s red velvet cake. Dress it up with family photographs and fun memories and stories.

• Ensure no one forgets family anniversaries and birthdays. Does your family have heaps of birthdays, anniversaries and other special occasions to keep track of? If so, a family calendar is a perfect holiday gift. Design a simple family calendar adorned with photographs and embellishments, and include all of those important events in one calendar for the whole family.

• Help your family historian chronicle your family’s past. For those in your family who enjoy history, or even for that family member who has everything, think about getting them a subscription to Ancestry.com, which gives them access to billions of historical records.

To create or order any of these family-focused gift ideas, or to learn more about your family history, visit www.ancestry. com.d D

fall 2009 | www.DecisiveMagazine.com www.DecisiveMagazine.com

7

pets

keepsgiving the gift that

Are You Ready for Your New Puppy?

Bringing a dog home can be a 15-year commitment, not to mention a huge financial and emotional responsibility.

Many families do not realize how much work raising a puppy entails. Sadly, many holiday puppies end up in shelters come January.

Animals can bring joy into their human’s lives, but only if people are ready to keep a canine companion healthy and safe.

Here are some tips for anyone considering getting a puppy for the holidays: Make sure that a dog will fit into your lifestyle. Do you have the money to pay for food, routine and emergency vet bills and training costs? Will you be home to care for your puppy? If not, will you be able to find or hire a sitter? Can you handle paw prints on your floors and dog hair on your furniture? If you answer “no” to any of these questions, you might want to get a lower-maintenance pet instead.

Puppy-proof your home before you bring Fido home. Puppies will chew on anything in reach. Some people hide or bundle loose cables and wires as a preventative measure. Place house plants out of puppy-reach, and keep floors clear.

Make sure your puppy has a kennel or a bed - it will need its own space.

Do your research before getting your puppy. Many pet stores are fronts for puppy mills, where ill dogs face horrendous abuse. Consider adopting from an animal shelter - one of four shelter dogs is

8

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

Who can resist a cute cuddly puppy dog? Unfortunately, many families buy puppies during the holidays, only to become overwhelmed by Easter. actually a purebred animal. If you really don’t want to adopt, look for a reputable breeder who will let you see their breeding facilities and meet your puppy’s parents.

Owners can also use Invisible Fence to keep their new dog safe. “A lot of people don’t realize our products can be used inside the home,” says Mark Thomas, the Senior Brand Manager for Invisible Fence Brand. The company’s Shields In-Home Safety Solution is

an ideal gift to keep a new puppy safe. The system features a small, portable transmitter and a special computer collar worn by the pet. The system is gentle enough for puppies as young as eight weeks, so it can help young pets stay out of trouble.d D

the ground moves under you so effortlessly that you have to wonder: is the planet just revolving on its axis or are your tires making it spin that way?

get up to $100

bridgestone visa prepaid card * by mail ®

when you buy a set of four eligible† Bridgestone Dueler tires. offer valid august 29 through september 26, 2009.

bridgestonetire.com

tiresafety.com

1-877-TIRE USA

*Prepaid Card is not redeemable for cash and may not be used for cash withdrawal at any cash-dispensing locations. The Card is not transferable and non-refundable. The Card is issued by MetaBank pursuant to license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. Card funds are available for 180 days in addition to any remaining days in the issuing month. The “Valid Thru” date on the front of the card denotes the exact date of expiration for your specific card(s). † Tires must be purchased from a Bridgestone retailer’s inventory between August 29 and September 26, 2009. Mail-in claim form required. Restrictions and limitations apply. See your participating Bridgestone retailer for complete details.

entertainment tips for planning

Written by Hannah Keeley

family activities budget on a

Times like these call for tightening budgets. For many, this means fewer activities outside of the home. With less dining out, movie outings, sports games or other extracurriculars, there’s no better time for budgetconscious families to really connect and spend quality time. PBS’s Hannah Keeley offers these tips for planning family activities on a budget.

Start at home

Get Out of Town

One of your biggest monthly investments is your family home, so why not get your money’s worth? If your kids don’t think staying home is cool, here’s your opportunity to get creative.

No matter the season, families benefit from fun trips and activities. With a little creativity, families can plan little escapes that don’t jeopardize the mortgage.

• Establish a weekly game night. There’s no need to buy new games, just ask other parents if they have games that you can borrow.

• Plan trips close to home. Look for locations three to four hours away to make it a road trip and save on airfare.

• Subscribe to a home movie-rental service. Let the kids add their favorite movie to the queue as rewards for accomplishments.

• Try camping. Once a popular option, many young families are getting back into the adventurous spirit of camping. During cooler months, rent a cabin at a discounted rate.d D

• Dining in style. Eat more meals at home. Keep the meal simple, so the family can prepare it together. I like to use affordable canned vegetables, like Libby’s, in recipes and as side dishes because they are delicious and easy to prepare.

10

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com www.onwheelsinc.com

home

seeingbeige?

Cecil Hayes’ Seven Cures For Colorblindness

Written by cecil hayes

It’s remarkable how many people say some variation of this phrase to me.

“I’m afraid of color in my home.”

If you are too, I have good news – color won’t hurt you. In fact, color is beneficial. Using color can add freshness, happiness, brightness, calmness, energy, and excitement to any décor.

12

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com www.DecisiveMagazine.com

In most cases, people fear what they feel they cannot control. Thing is, you totally control color selection and placement. If you are concerned about the brightness or weight of color, use paint in moderation in your room. Do an accent wall in color instead of the entire room. To get a feel for it, experiment with color in a room you don’t spend a lot of time in.

In my home, I made the bold decision to paint three walls red in a small guest bedroom. Red, as you know, is a bright color but so what? I don’t spend a lot of time in that room and I want to be assured that my guest’s visits are short and sweet. The results are both breathtaking and exotic. In fact, the room has been featured in several magazines.

Here are seven good reasons to try color on your walls: • Color can make inexpensive items look expensive.

• Color can pull your décor together.

• Color injects spirit and life into a room.

• Color adds a backdrop for other decorative items.

• Paint is easy to apply.

• Paint is affordable.

• Paint is easy to change.

Cecil says, “Bring color into your home, it will make you fearless”.

To find out more about colors and design tips, visit www.cecilhayes.comd D

Cecil Hayes is one of the world’s most renowned interior designers. Recipient of the Visionary in Design Awards from the Design Center of the Americas (DCOTA) and an NAACP Hall of Fame award, Cecil has also been inducted into the Smithsonian Institute’s Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum and is one of Architectural Digest’s AD100 – the magazine’s list of the top interior designers and architects worldwide.

Cecil’s signature work can be seen in the homes of Samuel L. Jackson, Wesley Snipes, Ty Law, P.J. Brown, Jamaal Mashburn and music mogul Tim Mosley (“Timbaland”) among others. Her award-winning décor has also graced the pages of such prestigious publications as Architectural Digest, The New York Times, The Washington Post, The Robb Report, Florida Design and Southern Living. She can be reached for a consultation at 954.570.5843.

fall 2009 | www.DecisiveMagazine.com Fall www.DecisiveMagazine.com

13

travel

summer

MOON PALACE GOLF & SPA RESORT, CANCUN

in December

Vacationing South of the Border

Written by ali peÑa

While it is quite natural to think of vacationing in the summer, it’s snow in your shoes that gives you mid-winter blues. And that’s when it’s time to look south, where the sun still shines. DECISIVE’s travel expert, Ali Pena, suggests the following getaways.

A Romantic Getaway

SANCTUARY CAP CANA GOLF & SPA RESORT, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC Located in Cap Cana, on the eastern coast of the Dominican Republic, which many Dominicans consider to have some of the most beautiful beaches on the island. The views are breathtaking and the sand is soft.

This resort is all about the romance. Elegant, luxurious suites with balconies or terraces offering breathtaking Caribbean views and top-of-theline technology like plasma televisions, DVD players and Internet access.

There are also upgraded suites with direct beach access, private pools, Jacuzzis and beach gazebos.

14

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

SANCTUARY CAP CANA GOLF & SPA RESORT, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC

Eco-Lovers Family Destination

Looking For Night-Life

MOON PALACE GOLF & SPA RESORT, CANCUN The resort offers all-inclusive packages with meals, snacks, top-shelf drinks, non-motorized water sports, daily and nightly activities, theme parties, and live performances. Climb the Mayan ruins at Chichen Itza, take a trip to Isla Mujeres which has beautiful beaches, go to the ecological theme park at Xcaret, swim with the dolphins, ride a zip line, go snorkeling, etc The hotel zone has a ton of dining options and nightlife. One of the most famous nightclubs, which is a can’t miss, is Coco Bongo. Every night, they put on a full Vegas-style show with acrobats, showgirls, pop star impersonators, and of course DJs mixing live music.

MOON PALACE GOLF & SPA RESORT, CANCUN

gAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT, PANAMA

GAMBOA RAINFOREST RESORT, PANAMA A scenic luxury resort off the beaten path; situated on the Chagres River, in the heart of Panama’s Soberania National Park. One can experience the sights and sounds of the rainforest at an affordable cost. Lush vegetation and a host of animals and insects, including a variety of birds of different species like toucans, monkeys, alligators and butterflies; inhabit the grounds surrounding the resort. The Panama Canal is a few minutes away and guests wanting to venture out can head into Panama City to visit the colonial city with historic churches, museums, and local handicraft market stands. Panama City also offers great restaurants, shopping and nightlife.

Ali Peña is CEO of Forums Event Design & Production, a corporate event planning company that specializes in Latin American markets.

Based in Miami, the company coordinates with a network of international suppliers to produce events in every major Latin market from the Bahamas to Chile.

For more information, visit www.forumseventdesign.com.

fall 2009 | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

15

fitness

Party Hearty Written by Valerie Menard

(and Healthy)

DECISIVE’s fitness expert’s tips for keeping pounds off at the holidays

16

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

C y

hristmas may be the season to be jolly but that doesn’t mean we have to look like Santa to get into the spirit.

Undoubtedly, much of the fun of the season includes consuming the delectable goodies of the season, many times made with such care that they’re reserved for the holidays only. But the downside is that the weight gained at this time, approximately five to seven pounds, can not only become permanent, it will certainly add up over time.

“There’s a lot of emotional eating at Christmas, from happiness as well as stress,” says DECISIVE fitness guru Wendy Ida. “Then on January 1, we make a resolution to get healthy and lose the weight – year after year.”

Wendy counters, however, that there is a way to celebrate the season and not gain weight.

The solution is simple, and familiar—diet and exercise.

The holiday menu, including proverbial favorites like mac-and-cheese or string bean casserole, doesn’t help. Wendy suggests taking these dishes, one at time, and remaking them in a healthier fashion. Rather than string bean casserole, just prepare steamed green beans with lemon. This way the family can acclimate to the new recipes.

“There will definitely be resistance, my family was no exception, but they will get used to it and some may even prefer the lighter menu,” Wendy offers.

Putting a modern spin on traditional recipes may be more natural than we think. Many families have already converted the preparation of collard greens.

Instead of using ham

hocks to season them, smoked turkey is now more common, and healthier.

While many calorie-laden foods announce their bad intentions, some foods can be deceptive. Considered an essential beverage with some meals, especially dessert, coffee can actually encourage overeating, says Wendy, and alcohol is loaded with calories. “Switch to green tea,” she advises. “It’s filled with antioxidants that are essential to good health.”

There are better alternatives to all that we eat at the holidays, even dessert. Wendy says pumpkin and sweet potato pie can be prepared with less fat if you use low fat evaporated and sweetened condensed milk. They are also good sources of fiber and antioxidants, making them one of the healthier desserts of the season.

Menu is part one of the key to staving off the pounds. Staying active, one of the most important aspects of a healthy lifestyle, is part two. While preparing the menu, Wendy suggests planning activities for after dinner too. “Instead of sitting in front of the TV, go for a walk in the neighborhood or play catch in the yard. Physical activity helps the digestive process and burns calories.d D

Wendy’s tips on avoiding holiday weight gain: 1. Reduce oils, butter and sugar & replace with healthy alternatives.

2. Buy smaller plates & eat smaller portions.

3. Start working out early and increase exercise intensity.

4. Workout before & after dinner.

5. Introduce one to two healthy low fat dishes each year.

6. Reduce your coffee and alcohol intake and drink green tea instead.

Known as the “Fitness Warrior,” Wendy Ida is a 57 year old Fitness Pro and owner of Wendy Ida Fitness in Los Angeles, CA. She is a Nationally Certified Master Trainer and Nutrition Specialist who specializes in helping women over age 40 to achieve fitness results. You’ll find Wendy online at wendyidafitness.com.

fall fall2009 2009 || www.DecisiveMagazine.com www.DecisiveMagazine.com

17

health

Health Care Plan Exam:

what’s fact, fiction?

Written by Mary M. Chapman

Much

President Obama’s proposal to dramatically reform the nation’s health care system, but not all the discourse has been based on fact, Decisive’s medical experts said.

As outlined in a major speech to the joint session of Congress, what has been established is this: Obama wants his plan to provide has been made of

more stability and security for those with health insurance; slow health care costs, and create an insurance exchange for those without insurance. Such an exchange would offer individuals and businesses more choices of health care plans at lower costs. Those who can afford coverage will be asked to buy it.

18

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

The president had been mulling a controversial public option, which would create a government insurance plan to vie with private insurers, but that component appeared to die recently when an important Senate committee rejected it.

If that and other truths aren’t widely known, it’s because the administration has not made the plan crystal clear, and because people are distracted, said Dr. George Shade, specialist-in-chief of obstetrics, gynecology at the Detroit Medical Center and president of the Wayne County Medical Society. “The whole reform initiative has been thrown at the public at the same time we’re experiencing the worse economic downturn of our lifetimes,” he explained. “People are focusing on, am I going to have a job tomorrow, am I going to have a home.”

And then there are seemingly deliberate distortions coming from the opposition. To wit, the notion that the plan will include death panels that will decide who lives and who dies is totally unfounded. There is no such body of language in any of the health care bills in Congress.

Likewise, there will be no explicit rationing, although Shade cautioned that the current plan’s emphasis on cost reduction could discourage physicians from taking extreme life-saving measures.

Neither is it true that immigrants would receive free health insurance, nor that the government would control doctors’ wages. The plan does not penalize doctors who refuse to see patients covered by the public insurance plan, although physicians will be paid more if they do. Likewise, despite protests to the contrary, seniors would not lose coverage, although the new plan would reduce the coverage gap in Medicare Part D and push for the approval of some generic drugs. The proposal also would provide financial assistance to retirees and get rid of some co-payments. The Medicare trust fund will not be used to pay for the plan.

What is true is that Obama would fine those who didn’t get health insurance, in order to fairly share the plan’s cost burden. It’s also a fact that insurers would not be able to deny coverage because of preexisting conditions, nor would individuals have to relinquish a plan they’re content with.

And, the president’s plan is not as heavy on prevention and wellness as many say it should be. “Prevention is having those tests, the Pap smear and mammograms, and nothing showing up,” Said Dr. Andrea Sullivan, a naturopathic and homeopathic practitioner and author of A Path to Healing: A Guide to Wellness for Body, Mind and Soul.

“Otherwise, such tests are secondary prevention.”

In addition, it’s also correct that, for those who lack health insurance, the proposed plan would provide coverage through the Medicaid program or subsidies to make a plan more affordable. That everyone has health care is No. 1 for physicians like Dr. Henrie Treadwell, director of community voices at Morehouse School of Medicine, who said blacks are already disproportionately affected by gaps in coverage.

“Blacks are at the lower end of the spectrum in terms of those who get health care from employers, although most uninsured people are working, just not in jobs that provide insurance,” she said. “We as a nation need to come face to face with this, and ask ourselves what it is we believe in.”d

The whole reform initiative has been thrown at the public at the same time we’re experiencing the worse economic downturn of our lifetimes, Blacks are at the lower end of the spectrum in terms of those who get health care from employers, although most uninsured people are working, just not in jobs that provide insurance.

Dr. Henrie Treadwell, Morehouse School of Medicine

D

fall 2009 | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

19

nutrition

healthiest foods the

Written by David H. Murdock

W

hen Oprah Winfrey recently visited me as part of a show devoted to longevity, she asked how I stay healthy and energetic at 86 years old.

My secret: a fish-vegetarian diet that includes large quantities of fruits and vegetables, plus an hour of daily exercise.

At the Dole Nutrition Institute, we are studying all the compounds of every fruit and vegetable as well as the causes of disease in order to help feed the world with knowledge on how to lead healthier, more vital lives.

To subscribe to Dole Nutrition News, sign up at www.dolenutrition.com. What follows is a list of the foods we have discovered to have the most significant health benefits.

The Healthiest Foods on Earth • Banana - Increases fat burning; lowers risk of colorectal and kidney cancer, leukemia; reduces asthma symptoms in children.

• Pineapple - Speeds post-surgery healing; promotes joint health; supports colon health.

• Blueberries - Restore antioxidant levels; reverse age-related brain decline; prevent urinary tract infection.

• Spinach - Helps maintain mental sharpness; reduces the risk of cancers of the liver, ovaries, colon and prostate; top nutrient density.

• Red Bell Pepper - Reduces risk of lung, prostate, ovarian and cervical cancer; protects against sunburn; promotes heart health.

• Broccoli - Reduces diabetic damage; lowers risk of prostate, bladder, colon, pancreatic,

20

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

on earth

gastric and breast cancer; protects the brain in event of injury • Apple - Supports immunity; fights lung and prostate cancer; lowers Alzheimer’s risk.

• Butternut Squash - Supports night vision; combats wrinkles; promotes heart health.

• Carrot - Antioxidants defend DNA; fights cataracts; protects against some cancers. * Cauliflower - Stimulates detoxification; suppresses breast cancer cell growth; defends against prostate cancer.

• Cabbage - Promotes healthy blood clotting; reduces risk of prostate, colon, breast and ovarian cancers; activates the body’s natural detoxification systems.

• Kale - Counters harmful estrogens that can feed cancer; protects eyes against sun damage and cataracts; increases bone density.

• Kiwi - Combats wrinkles; lowers blood clot risk and reduces blood lipids; counters constipation.

• Mushrooms - Promote natural detoxification; reduce the risk of colon and prostate cancer; lower blood pressure.

• Strawberries - Protect against Alzheimer’s; reduce “bad” cholesterol; suppress growth of colon, prostate and oral cancer.

• Sweet Potato - Reduces stroke risk; lowers cancer risk; protects against blindness.d D

David H. Murdock is chairman and owner of Dole Food Company.

THINK IT’S JUST HYPE? CALL US ON IT. A LOCAL AGENT OR 1-888-ALLSTATE. Savings based on national (except FL, CA, NJ) customer data for new auto and home policies written in 2008. Actual savings vary. Property insurance is subject to availability.

Allstate Property and Casualty Insurance Company and Allstate Fire and Casualty Insurance Company: Northbrook, IL. © 2009 Allstate Insurance Company

137155_a03

Truth is, drivers who switched their home and car insurance to Allstate® saved an average of $503 a year.

business

starting a Written by Darren Hardy

business?

This Economy Presents Opportunities, Too

Inside every cloud, there is a silver lining. This current economic situation is a perfect example. Opportunities for entrepreneurialism abound.

It’s always good to know where growth markets are. Recently, I asked my SUCCESS magazine board of advisors to point out the industries and businesses that are booming because of the economy.

Here are a few trends that seem to be surfacing: Safety and Comfort. It has been established that the economy is driving people to psychologically safe places.

People are escaping by renting movies, visiting their counselors and psychologists and buying comfort foods. While high-end restaurants are struggling, places like McDonald’s and other inexpensive takeout spots like Wingstop, whose sales are up 6.5 percent, 75 percent of which are takeout, are growing.

A Return to Prudence. A social shift to cost-saving measures redirects dollars to alternative services. People are canceling their cable subscriptions and using the streaming television Web site Hulu.com to watch the same programs through the Internet for free.

Additionally, people are staying home versus going out. Netflix subscribers have increased to more than 10 million, and iTunes’ sales are way up, with growth of more than 25 percent.

Also, because we are staying home for fun, the video gaming industry has reported an increase of 31 percent.

GameStop is outperforming the retail

22

decisive magazine | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

sector with expected growth of 18 to 22 percent for 2009.

Retraining, Retooling and Reevaluating. In a poor economy, people update and advance their education to give themselves a competitive edge in the job market. Community colleges’, business schools’ and distance learning programs’ enrollments are up. And, of course, job search and résumé consulting; networking and preparatory service companies are thriving.

Contract Services. Instead of hiring full-benefit employees, companies are hiring outside consultants and contractors for specific projects, including IT, design, production and creative services. This increase in specialized contract work has spurred an increase in independent consulting and small contract service businesses.

The Unfortunate Obvious. Bankruptcy attorneys, accounting services specializing in accounts receivable collection, law firms representing displaced employees, realtors specializing in bank-owned properties, restructuring consulting companies and equipment liquidators have also done well in this economy. Overstock.com has reported a 17 percent increase in business.

Entrepreneurial opportunity still exists, you just have to use a bit of common sense.d D

expansion a prescription for

business

Written by monique mcckenzie

In 1998, Dr. Suzanne Greenidge-Hewitt decided it was time to spread her wings in the Westchester County area. By 2006, her gynecology practice soared from 1 office with 3 employees to 3 offices with 23 employees. Her Woman to Woman OB/GYN clinic (www.westchesterobgyn. com) now boasts 7 medical providers servicing 20,000 patients.

How’d she do it? She credits her success to careful planning and strong execution.

There was good fortune, too. For example, when a doctor closed a practice she’d previously worked for, she was poised to take on his patients. She also grew by purchasing a practice from a doctor who could no longer afford the malpractice insurance. More importantly, she did lots of research and capitalized on missed opportunities.

Are you ready to take your business up a notch? Here is the doctor’s prescription for success: 1) Watch for clues. “I’m a woman gynecologist and I was in an era of women wanting to be treated by women,” she recalls. “So, I realized if I didn’t do something soon I would wind up with too many patients that I couldn’t effectively treat. At that point I decided to take on associates and hire some other people that could help me grow. Expansion meant I could take time off for myself and move into management.”

2) Turn to business consultants for help. If you’re thinking about expanding and don’t know where to start, hire a consultant for insight. They can provide an independent assessment and connect you with the right resources. Just make sure Monique McKenzie is the host of The McKenzie Business Forum. The talk show, which provides on-air business advice, airs live on Thursdays at 3pm on www.smallbusinessbootcamp.biz.

they’re experts in your type of business.

3) Set GOALS and move in stages and phases. In Greenidge-Hewitt’s case, her facility expansion was in three phases: “First, I put parking in the front and completed the main floor,” she explains.

“During the second phase, we finished the basement and put parking in the back.

In this third phase, we’ll be putting in an elevator and doing construction on the top floor to accommodate more patients.”

4) Pick a business location that will help – not hurt. Greenidge-Hewitt’s first practice was located right across the street from a hospital. This made it easy for her to work with the hospital for referrals and recommendations.

5) Make your network work for you. “I’m part of various physician networks,” she explains. “If a patient calls the hospital, they will give the caller some numbers for doctors in their area.” Currently, this physician’s network helps her get patients for her practice but initially, she also relied on it for other resources.

6) Benchmark your business. Find out what your competitors are doing and do it better. Also, integrate technology. For Greenidge-Hewitt, technological improve-

ments have enabled her to upgrade her billing practices, put all of her patient records online, and even allow patients to review test results online.

7) Keep Customer Service First. Even in the medical arena, Greenidge-Hewitt says patients shouldn’t be taken for granted.

She’s constantly looking for ways to better serve them, that’s why her office features free parking, early morning and late hour appointments, Saturday office hours and the ability for patients to reach their doctors by phone and online.

“I actually think my business is recession-proof and has gotten better in the recession,” admits Greenidge-Hewitt. “But I still need to realize where the opportunities lie. That’s why we’re booked every single day.”d D

fall 2009 | www.DecisiveMagazine.com

23

14th Annual

Urban Wheel Awards and

DECISIVE Multimedia Launch Held in conjunction with The 2010 North American International Auto Show MotorCity Casino & Hotel Sound Board Theater Detroit, Michigan

January 12, 2010 The Annual Urban Wheel Awards brings together celebrities, executives, international media, and the multicultural community to honor the companies and individuals in the auto industry. Today, people of color make up almost one-third of the U.S. population and the Urban Wheel Awards is a mass multi-media event designed to promote their inclusion in all aspects of the auto industry.

• Announcing winners of the Urban Car, Truck and Green Vehicle. (Selected by a panel of 15 independent auto journalists.)

• Presenting Life Time Achievement and Pioneer Awards • Recognizing Commitment to Minority Supplier Contracts in the Auto Industry stimulus • Including a launch celebration for DECISIVE Multimedia. Introducing an expanded multi-cultural media platform that transforms the way the new consumer makes decisions on products and services.

For information on Sponsorship Opportunities or Tickets, contact: Rpayton@onwheelsinc.com, visit www.urbanwheelawards.com, or call On Wheels Media (301) 390-1823 Proceeds to benefit the Edward Davis Education Foundation (Scholarships, Internships, and Mentoring)

dDECISIVE

The Best Source for Cultural and Consumer News