Business Magazine by Carolina Media Services

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Magazine

Supporting Local

Businesses Silver Lining in the Recession

To Young To Retire A New Career Track For Baby Boomers

Contents

Supporting local businesses in South Carolina

Financial tips for job seekers

How to go from survive to thrive at work

Small-Business owers see silver lining in the recession

Charleston’s Office of Cultural Affairs launches www.CharlestonArts.sc

Signature Golf

Keeping America’s information safe offers a secure career

Breaking down barriers: Who says women can’t excel in math & scienc?

Too young to retire a new career track for baby boomers

Charites need to file returns too

Ways to give without dipping into your bottom line

Start your federal tax return earlier to cash in on 2009 changes

Time to refiance or buy?

Tips to manage credit card debt

Banking on the go puts you in control of your money

From The Editor Supporting Local Businesses in

South Carolina

Promoting local business is as simple as having other company’s business cards or brochures posted on a board in your store. We are doing our part, so please join us, and promote your local merchants, and everyone will benefit!

Top Ten reasons to Think Local Buy Local - Be Local – Help Local Businesses 1. Buy Local: Support yourself and Downtown. Many studies have revealed when you buy from an independent, locally owned business in the your own area, rather than a nationally owned businesses, considerably more of your money is used to make purchases from other local businesses. Local businesses continue to strengthen the economic base of the local community. These include case studies showing that local local owned businesses generate a premium in enhanced economic impact to the community and our tax base. 2.Support Local Area Community Groups: Non-profit organizations receive an average 250% more support from smaller area business owners than they do from large companies. 3. Keep Your Area Unique: Where we shop, where we eat and

have fun -- all of it makes our community home. Our one-of-a-kind local businesses are an integral part of the distinctive character. Local tourism businesses also benefit. “When people go on vacation they generally seek out destinations that offer them the sense of being someplace, not just anyplace.” ~ Richard Moe, President, National Historic Preservation Trust.

4. Reduce Environmental Impact: Locally owned businesses in

your area can make more local purchases requiring less transportation. This generally means contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss and pollution.

5. Create Additional Jobs: Small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and in the community, provide the most jobs to local residents. 6. Receive Better Service: Local businesses often hire people with

a better understanding of the products and services they offer, and take more time to get to know customers.

7.Invest in Your Community: Local businesses are owned by

people who live in this community, and they are less likely to leave, and are more invested in the community’s future.

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8. Put your Taxes to Good Use: Local

businesses require a relatively little infrastructure investment and make more efficient use of public services as compared to nationally owned stores entering your area.

9. Buy What you Want, Not What Big Advertising Budgets Want you to Buy: A South Carolina marketplace

comprised of tens of thousands of small businesses is the best way to ensure innovation and low prices over the long-term. A multitude of small businesses, each selecting products and services based not on a national sales plan but on their own interests and the needs of their local customers, promises a much broader range of product choices.

10. Promote Local Prosperity: An escalating body of economic research shows that in an increasingly homogenized world, entrepreneurs and skilled workers are more likely to invest and settle in communities that preserve their one-of-a-kind businesses and distinctive character. Larry Local Editor in Chief

www.Irmo.sc Online Magazine | 2009 6

www.Irmo.sc Online Magazine | 2009 7

Business Magazine

CEO Dennis Stewart Editor In Chief Larry Local Art Director Amy Coats Web Developers Matthew Coats Administration & Marketing Vivi Morillo

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Do more than is required. What is the distance between someone who achieves their goals consistently and those who spend their lives and careers merely following?

The extra mile.

Financial tips

for job seekers (ARA) - Losing your job is tough. But in the midst of a recession, rebounding and finding new employment is even harder. While uncertainty and doubt may overwhelm you, job loss can be an opportunity to reevaluate your career, take control of your situation and, most importantly, regain your self-confidence. However, while building a resume and making connections to find a new job are a priority, the first issue most people should address is money. The following checklist from Thrivent Financial for Lutherans, a not-for-profit financial services organization, provides some immediate tips to stay financially afloat after a job loss. * Draft a survival budget Anticipate that you’ll be out of work for at least six months. It’s impossible to predict how long your unemployment will last, of course. But you can control what you spend and save. Tips on increasing your cash flow are also available at thrivent.com/jobchange. * Make sure you and your dependents have health insurance coverage It may be least expensive to join your spouse’s plan, if that’s an option. If not, look into COBRA coverage through your former employer. The 2009 economic stimulus package from the federal government requires that a percentage of COBRA premiums be paid by your previous employer for a period of time. Details are available on the U.S. Department of Labor Web site, DOL.gov. * Examine credit card debt Contact your credit card company about lowering your interest rate. If you have credit card debt, you may need to make just the minimum payments until you get back to work. If your debt is significant or you are having trouble making even the minimum payments, try to negotiate a payment plan with your creditors. For help managing your debt, learn about Thrivent Financial Bank’s Debt Savvy program.

* File for unemployment benefits You have a right to receive benefits you’ve paid for. Rules may vary by state. * Maintain your life insurance coverage It may be tempting to save cash over the short-term by canceling your life insurance contract. But if you try to resume coverage on a lapsed contract at a later date, you’ll pay more and you may have to prove insurability with a medical exam. * Avoid drawing upon retirement funds Resist the urge to dip into retirement savings except as an absolute last resort. Receiving that money now could mean early withdrawal penalties and taxes you hadn’t anticipated. Plus, you’ll lose the potential earning power of that money for your eventual retirement. You can find additional tips on job interviews, information on job boards and networking, sample resumes and more, including money tips for after you land a job at Thrivent Financial’s Web site www.thrivent.com/jobchange. “Regaining financial security is a critical part of dealing with job loss,” says Laura Dierke, manager of financial education programs for Thrivent Financial. “Working in partnership with your family to discuss these money topics can be extremely beneficial.” The road to a successful job transition will come with many twists and turns. But taking ownership of the situation, moving forward with confidence and taking advantage of the tools available will help you get back into the job market.

A business that makes nothing but money is a poor business.

Get Your Carolina Girl Gear!

How to go from survive to thrive at work (ARA) - With a wide-spread recession and high jobless rates, it would be no surprise to find that many employed Americans are in “survivor mode” - doing what they can to make the most of the jobs and resources they have at hand. Yet, a 2009 World of Work study by recruitment agency Randstad found a workforce that is ready to step up and regain control of its own and its companies’ destinies. In fact, the study revealed that only one in four employees is concerned he or she will be laid off in the next six months. “This is one of the most challenging workplace environments in decades. Layoffs are forcing people to wear more hats and take on more responsibility,” says Eileen Habelow, Randstad’s senior vice president for organizational development. “Because of this, many people forget about exploring new opportunities within their current organization.” So, how do you push beyond survivor mentality and begin focusing your energies on a future where you will thrive at work? Habelow recommends a few ideas: Ask questions If your only source of information is coming from the chatter at the office water cooler, chances are you aren’t getting the full story. Stay connected to what’s going on at work by making a list

of questions and scheduling time with your manager to discuss. While a manager may not be able to tell you everything, chances are he or she can provide timely, transparent information that can help maintain your workplace focus and fine-tune your personal goals. Increase your value While others around you may be just happy to have a job, improving basic skills such as organization and time management can increase your productivity and show your manager that you have the capacity to take on a larger function within the office. Have years of experience under your belt? Consider mentoring a colleague. Demonstrating a hands-on, teamwork approach to helping your company achieve success can speak volumes about your value to your company. Be social Twitter, Facebook and LinkedIn are fast becoming part of today’s business landscape. Get to know what they offer, how they work, who uses them and why. No longer are phone and e-mail enough. To thrive

you must not only understand the new communication tools being used, but how to use them effectively within your role. Expand roles and responsibilities Whether assigned by a leader or proactive in nature, by exposing yourself to new opportunities at work, you just might find that you have hidden talents that can be of added value to your company. Consider job-sharing a managerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s role left vacant due to layoffs; volunteering for new business, recruiting and internal committees; or teaching a skills workshop to others in your office. Be innovative The days of business as usual are gone. In todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s workplace, employees are expected to contribute above and beyond their job description. Be accountable for change as well as improvement in your office by building creative skills, offering new ideas and implementing best practices where you can. To learn more about how you can thrive at work, visit www.us.randstad.com.

Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let your ego get too close to your position, so that if your

position gets shot down, your ego doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t go with it.

Want to grow your business?

Join the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce! As the unified voice of business, the South Carolina Chamber is working to grow wealth for South Carolinians and businesses in order to improve economic development and quality of life.

We help your business and you by: • Getting your voice heard by our state legislators through our Grassroots Network • Working to pass business-friendly legislation • Keeping you informed on issues and providing solutions for growing your business through our monthly magazine, South Carolina Business • Providing networking opportunities with legislators and other business owners • Training your employees on human resources, quality and management issues • Publishing a legal reference series

Join the South Carolina Chamber of Commerce!

(ARA) - The current gloomy economic conditions contain some good news for the small-business sector. According to a recent survey conducted by Citibank, some small-business owners and managers are finding a silver lining in the current recession, seeing more high-quality candidates available for hire, rising employee retention rates and gains in market share. As a business owner, how can you take advantage of these small-business opportunities and make them work for your business? Small-business expert Dan Goodgame recently moderated a robust roundtable of small-business owners, who offer these three tips:

1. Take advantage of the talent pool As a result of the recession, there is larger pool of highly qualified and highly skilled employees available for hire. Many who may not have considered working for a small firm are now more open to the idea. Take time to interview a variety of job candidates on a regular basis, even if you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have a current opening at the company. This technique can help you fill an opening as soon as it is created with the best possible talent, and avoid some of the costs - typically 50 to 200 percent of the employeeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual salary - normally associated with staff turnover.

Small-business owners see silver lining in the recession

2. Retain your best employees Holding on to your best employees is of course crucial to building your business, and it’s going to get harder as the economy starts growing again. First, create a two-way communication system that allows employees, on a regular basis, to give and receive feedback on their performance and the performance of their peers and managers. Second, create an employee recognition and rewards program that extends beyond compensation and bonus. Be creative with the rewards program; provide employees with paid time off to volunteer at their organization of choice. Provide recognition with “surprise” thank you gift certificates to a local cafe or restaurant. The “thank you” does not have to be a big dollar amount - just the recognition can go a long way.

3. Seek feedback from customers as you seek referrals With marketing budgets pinched, many business owners are taking a fresh look at ways to gain new sales by winning referrals from existing customers. One of the most effective methods is to seek feedback from existing customers on the quality of your products and services, and on your pricing. Tell customers directly that you want to do whatever is necessary so that they will be so pleased that they will recommend your company to their friends and colleagues. Listen to their suggestions on how you can improve. And when you’ve followed through on their advice, check back with them. If you know of a good prospect, ask your existing customers if they know her, and

can introduce you to her and recommend you. One advantage of this approach is that it helps you get the feedback that you need to improve your service, even as it brings in new business. The small-business sector typically leads the U.S. economy out of recession, and that pattern seems to be holding up in the current downturn. Leveraging tips such as these will be key to surviving the toughest business conditions in more than half a century.

Every young man would do well to remember that all successful business stands on the foundation of morality.

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Charleston’s Office Of Cultural Affairs launches www.CharlestonArts.sc, as thier new arts Web Site From: Charleston Currents The City of Charleston’s Office of Cultural Affairs has launched http://www.CharlestonArts.sc, a companion Web site to the OCA’s primary page at the city’s official site. CharlestonArts.sc will be updated daily with information and features, including an arts calendar that users can search by date, artist, presenting group or venue; social networking widgets; and a directory of local arts and cultural organizations and venues. “We are hopeful that CharlestonArts.sc will be a major benefit to local artists and arts organizations by disseminating information about their events with the most up-to-date information to a broader public,” said Ellen Dressler Moryl, director of the Office of Cultural Affairs. Other options for users at CharlestonArts.sc include the following: • Arts organizations can download forms from the Office of Cultural Affairs, submit events, update contact information and compare performance dates with other area organizations. • The Tools for Professional section of the Web site features job listings for arts professionals, including full time and part time work as well as internships and volunteer opportunities with arts and cultural organizations in the tri-county area. • Updated grant opportunities for arts organizations, with detailed information, including deadlines, application and contact information. • Call for Submissions and Call for Auditions pages with details about the location, deadlines, fees and additional requirements. The new Web site also hosts connecting pages for general information on the Office of Cultural Affairs and its projects: the Charleston Farmers Market, the City Gallery at Waterfront Park, Holiday Magic, Happy New Year Charleston!, the Holiday Parade of Boats, the Lowcountry Quarterly Arts Grant Program, Piccolo Spoleto and the MOJA Arts Festival. The Web Site was developed and is being hosted by Carolina Media Services ( www.ONLY.sc) .

As a small

businessperson, you have no greater leverage than the truth.

About the time we can make the ends meet, somebody moves the ends.

Keeping America’s information safe offers a secure career (ARA) - From shopping to working to banking, Americans are doing it all online. Consumers need their private information to be safe, but at the same time, they want the speed and convenience of instant transactions, all without giving it a second thought. Online safekeeping doesn’t just happen. Information security specialists are in the shadows, ensuring consumer and business data security worldwide, and providing the skills needed to track down information in criminal investigations. Because nearly everyone is at risk from a cyber security threat, professionals in information systems security are bucking unemployment trends. Students interested in information security careers can study at DeVry University, which offers a specialized track providing the skills to help design security system procedures, standards, protocols and policies.

“I have been in the IT industry for about eight years, working on information security-related projects for most of my career,” says Najmus Qazi, a DeVry University alumnus from Chicago working in the telecommunications industry. “Most recently, companies have been paying more attention to their information security due to the simple fact that there are a lot of bad guys with ingenious ways of stealing data. The constant change and evolution of my role has made it incredibly exciting.” With new methods of “capturing” volumes of personal information online, it is no wonder that the security of personal and corporate information has become a hot button issue ... and a true career opportunity. There is a real and practical need for specialists who develop and deploy systems to make sure proprietary or private information is protected.

“Despite the recession, IT specialists holding certifications in information security have actually been in demand,” says John Giancola, dean of Devry University’s College of Engineering and Information Sciences. “Because we have become so mobile and unwired, our personal data is accessible in so many ways - from cell phones to laptop computers - so we need to make sure our personal information is not compromised. Information security behind the scenes keeps us safe.” The field of information security is the first line of defense in preventing unauthorized access, use, disclosure and destruction of data for both businesses and individuals. But for individuals, the extra prevention helps protect them against identity theft. The importance of this field came into sharp focus earlier in 2009 when President Obama created a cyber security cabinet-level position. This “Cyber Czar” will be responsible for integrating and coordinating all government protections of cyberspace and will lead the U.S response to any hacker attack on U.S. networks.

Five careers under the information security umbrella are helping keep the virtual world safe from would-be hackers and viruses: * Network systems and data communications analysts are projected to be the fastest growing occupation, with projections of more than 50 percent growth through 2016. They analyze, test and evaluate network systems. * Information systems security specialists help organizations prepare for, react to and recover from security threats. These experts develop and implement security procedures, protocol and policies. * Disaster recovery agents work to ensure a company’s data systems and networks are recoverable. They often perform and analyze disaster simulations to ensure prompt restoration of services. * IT managers play an important role in implementing technology in their organizations. They oversee network security and direct Internet operations.

* Computer forensics specialists perform the vital task of investigating suspected fraud and criminal cases. They recover deleted, encrypted or damaged digital files and often provide expert testimony in criminal court cases. “After spending years as an automotive service advisor, I went back to school to find a new career that offered solid potential for the future,” says Marc Brown, a computer information systems student with a specialization in computer forensics at the North Brunswick, N.J. campus of DeVry University. “Studying computer forensics has exceeded all my expectations. Every day, I look forward to all my classes and instructors. It’s fun when friends recognize the value of what I do from the nightly news or crimes shows.”

DeVry University offers associate, bachelor and graduate degree programs in the information security field at campuses across the nation as well as through online classes. By enrolling in an accelerated program and attending classes year round, undergraduate students are able to earn a bachelor’s degree in as few as three years. Learn more at www.devry.edu.

Business is a combination of war and sport.

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Breaking down barriers

Who says women can’t excel in math and science? (ARA) - True or false: Men have more ability in math and science than women? The correct answer is false, and it seems that America’s work force is finally beginning to reflect this. New and pervasive research demonstrates there is no difference in ability between men and women. The differences in achievement only appear when lower expectations and distorted perceptions of what is achievable affect motivation levels and confidence. The good news is that universities across the country are seeing an increase in the number of female college students in various degree programs that have been more popular among male students in the past. And, the number of women pursuing careers grounded in science, technology, engineering and math in the U.S. is growing. When Michelle Obama gave her commencement speech at the Washington Math Science Technology Public Charter high school in 2009, she encouraged students to have confidence, believe in their abilities and to disregard the “doubters” that they will inevitably encounter. This is the same sentiment that Jessica Galloza, associate engineer for Sypris Test and Measurement (STM) and a DeVry University graduate, says helped her get where she is today. Galloza wasn’t encouraged in high school to take higher-level math courses or to think of college as an

option, but rather these are things she pursued on her own. After deciding that a career in law wasn’t for her, she chose to major in electronics engineering technology (EET) because of the growing opportunities in that field. “I embraced my studies as a challenge and knew that I was working toward a career that would support me and my family,” says Galloza. “I think it’s important for parents, teachers and guidance counselors to plant career seeds into the minds of young girls so they can realize their goals and work to achieve them as adults. Why not offer a young girl a science kit as opposed to a doll?” “It’s important that girls engage in activities that expand their ability to be naturally curious and apply logic in a variety of ways,” says Accenture Health and Public Services Operating Unit Lead, Angela Jones. “Our world is changing so quickly - tomorrow the tools will be different, and the way we interact and collaborate will continue to change. It will be our ability to adjust and problem solve within those environments that will help us be competitive.” Some institutions are doing their part to dismantle the social stigmas keeping young women from pursuing math and science. For instance, DeVry University offers a program to high school girls

called HerWorld which takes place at DeVry locations across the country. At these events, girls are empowered to learn about careers in math, science, business, technology and engineering through interactive workshops - such as building miniature robots - and discussions with female guest speakers. “Every year, we’re seeing enrollment numbers increase for our math, science and technology degree programs, and many of these students are women,” says Donna Loraine, vice president of academic affairs and dean of DeVry University’s Keller Graduate School of Management. “It’s our goal as a university to encourage girls to explore their options and to inspire them to pursue fulfilling careers with high potential for growth in the 21st century.” “In order to maintain global economic competitiveness, it is imperative to encourage increased education and participation of groups currently under-represented in science, technology, engineering and math fields,” says Forough Ghahramani, dean of business programs at DeVry University’s North Brunswick, N.J., campus. “DeVry University’s HerWorld events are designed to enlighten young women across the country about the wide-ranging possibilities for these in-demand careers of the 21st century.”

Too young to retire

a new career track for baby boomers (ARA) - It seems the aspirations of baby boomers are changing from ones of retirement, to those of entrepreneurship. Over the past decade, Americans age 55 to 64 have seen the highest rate of entrepreneurial activity, especially since the traditional business model and large corporations no longer provide the job security they used to. Despite a bleak economic outlook, America is on the cusp of an entrepreneurial boom, according to a study conducted by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation. One of the most popular endeavors for those in this age bracket is that of a professional business or life coach. Boomers are well suited to this professional calling based on their vast business and life experience. Coaching is the practice of focusing existing talents and channeling them to create true significance and empowerment to change in the lives of others. Even before the entrepreneurial boomers took to the profession, the coaching industry has seen tremendous growth, with revenues topping $1 billion in 2008. The

International Coach Federation, because of the demand for coaches, has seen an explosion in its membership since its creation in 1995. Membership has grown from fewer than 1,000 members to more than 14,000. Additionally, between 25 to 40 percent of Fortune 500 companies use executive coaches, as reported in a recent survey by The Hay Group, an International Human Resources consultancy. “Baby boomers comprise the largest segment of our student and graduate base,” comments D. Luke Lorio, president of iPEC’s coach training division. “The baby boom generation brings with it the experience, skills, contacts, drive and other resources to pursue entrepreneurial opportunities such as coaching. They reached a point in their careers where they want to capitalize on their experience and often give back to others. Coaching has provided them an outlet to help others while also earning substantial incomes.” On average, experienced life coaches are earning an average of $77,000 per year, and experienced corporate/business coaches are earning an average of $134,800 per year, according to the 2009 Sherpa Executive Coaching Study. With baby boomers living healthier and longer lives, they are no longer following traditional retirement paths and instead are seeking second and third careers. There’s been a shift away from lifetime jobs with long-term employment - with a noticeable drop among people ages 35 to 64 years old during the past 50 years, according to the study.

Jim Kelly, president of Real Leaders Lead Executive Coaching (RealLeadersLead.com), is a baby boomer success story. The 63-year-old certified professional coach was attracted to coaching because it was a career that was truly aligned with his values of giving back and empowering others to live their dreams. “My 35 years of real world leadership and life experience, including a tenure as CEO of a multi-million dollar company, is the ideal foundation for a coaching business. I went through the ups and downs of every career and the struggles of building successful businesses. It is that experience that allows me to help leaders navigate similar experiences much more quickly than if they go it alone,” says Kelly. “My coaching business is strong because clients are investing in the one thing they know will produce a return: themselves.” Here are six ways to know if a career in coaching is for you: * People usually come to you for advice and you have a positive impact on them. * You value personal growth and seek a career that will utilize your strengths. * You see great potential in people and are frustrated when they don’t exercise that potential.

* You emphasize strong relationships and a balanced life with many interests, including vitality in health and career. * You’re not afraid of hard work to create more personal and financial freedom. * You know you have a gift - and you want to share it to help yourself and others live a more powerful and fulfilling life. To find out more about careers in coaching, contact www.iPECcoaching.com.

An economist is

an expert who will know tomorrow why the things he predicted yesterday didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t happen today.

Charities need to file returns too (ARA) - This is the time of year when people start preparing their annual income tax returns. It’s also time to remind people who run charities and other tax-exempts that those organizations must file annual returns with the Internal Revenue Service, as well. “Most tax-exempt organizations, other than churches, must file a yearly information return or notice with the IRS,” says Lois G. Lerner, director of IRS Exempt Organizations. “That’s either a Form 990, 990-EZ, 990-PF or the 990-N e-Postcard.” Filing those 990s on time is crucial because if an organization does not file a required, annual return for three consecutive years, the law requires that it will automatically lose its tax-exempt status. That means it must file income tax returns and pay income tax. If an organization loses its tax-exempt status, it can reapply by filing Form 1023 (for 501(c)(3) organizations) or Form 1024 (for organizations exempt under other code sections), but it must pay another application fee. If the IRS approves the application, the organization’s tax-exempt status will be effective as of the date of the application; any income from the date of the revocation to the new effective date may be taxable. If, on the other hand, the organization can demonstrate reasonable cause for failure to file, the exemption will be retroactive to the date of revocation. So it’s better to avoid losing your tax-exempt status, in the first place, says Lerner.

For smaller tax-exempt organizations with receipts of $25,000 or less, filing can be a quick process. Using the Internet to respond to a few basic questions on the Form 990-N (e-Postcard) only takes a few minutes. Visit www.irs.gov/charities and click on “Annual Electronic Filing Requirement for Small Exempt Organizations” to learn more about the e-Postcard and how to access and transmit the form. Tax-exempt organizations, with more than $25,000 in gross receipts use the Form 990-EZ or Form 990. Private foundations use Form 990-PF. Unlike personal income tax returns, the 990-series forms do not have a single due date. The 990s are due by the 15th day of the fifth month after the close of an organization’s tax year. For example, if an organization’s tax year closes on Dec. 31, its form is due by the following May 15. Although the three year rule applies only to the 990-series returns, Lerner says this is a good time to make sure that other IRS-related filings are up-to-date, including an organization’s Form 941, Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Return, and Form 990-T, Exempt Organization Business Income Tax Return. For details, go to the IRS Charities and Nonprofits Web page at www.irs.gov/eo.

By working faithfully eight hours a day you may eventually get to be boss and work twelve hours a day.

Ways to give

without dipping into your bottom line (ARA) - More and more people are resolving to be more giving, and to share what they have with the less fortunate. The current economic climate, however, presents something of a challenge to people who want to give, but lack the budget to do so. Americans are known for their generous and giving spirits, as well as for their ingenuity, so itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s no surprise that they have worked out ways to satisfy the desire to help others without having

to sacrifice. If you look in your community, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll surely find a host of meaningful ways to help others. You can also expand your generosity to act globally, too. Here are some creative ways to give that wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t cost you cash.

Find nonprofits that offer unique ways to make a difference. The more technology develops, the more we’re able to connect with others around the world and help alleviate global poverty. The Web site JoinMyVillage.com, presented by the humanitarian organization CARE and the food company General Mills, invites people to help fight poverty in Africa. Simply log on to JoinMyVillage.com and join a village team. With that simple act, you’ll unlock $1 to help people in Malawi, one of the poorest countries in the world. You can keep unlocking dollars by answering fun quiz questions or by inviting friends to participate (up to $5 per person per day, $150,000 in total). In just one week, you can unlock enough to buy a new secondary school uniform for a girl in Malawi, which will enable her to attend school. (Just one additional year of education will increase her earning potential by nearly 20 percent over her lifetime and open new doors to the future.) If you’re in a position to make a personal donation - even as little as $10 - your contributions will go doubly far because General Mills will match them dollar-for-dollar (up to $500 per donor, another $150,000 in total).

JoinMyVillage.com also has rich stories, and regular progress reports on the women and children you are helping in Malawi. It’s a great way to teach children about international development and how to be good global citizens. Use your talents. Do you have a way with words and a passion for language? You might just be a great volunteer to help adult and child immigrants improve their English skills. Maybe you own a gardening shop - there are charitable organizations that need help with grounds-keeping projects. And if you’re a real authority on the ins-and-outs of your city, you could serve as a guide for new immigrants struggling to learn about how to get around, where to go shopping, and the details of everyday life that make a big difference in adjusting to a new society. If you love the arts, you could serve as a docent at your local art museum and introduce people to the treasures that are on display there. Whatever your hobby or passion, you can almost certainly find a way to translate it into volunteerism.

Mine your house. Donations don’t have to be in the form of cash. There are lots of local organizations that accept gently-used clothing, household goods, cell phones and more. Just keep a few things in mind when you’re adding to your donation pile. First, make sure that the item is usable. Broken toasters or splintering wooden spoons, torn shirts, or pants with loose seams - they’re not going to serve the people who benefit from the charity. Also, make sure that any items you donate are clean - wash, dry, and fold all clothes and double-check that any household items you’re dropping off are dust- and

gunk-free. Consider what you would want and be able to use if the proverbial shoe were on the other foot and you were looking for donated items. There is truth in the old saying that it’s better to give than to receive. Studies show that people who volunteer are often happier and healthier than their peers. In fact, if you give of yourself, you’ll find that you receive, too, in the form of new friends and experiences that make your life richer.

Start your federal tax return earlier to cash in on (ARA) - About 71 million American households (47 percent) will owe no federal income tax for 2009 thanks, in part, to the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act (ARRA), according to estimates by the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center. The other 53 percent of us will have to pay. If you will owe federal taxes for 2009, you may still qualify for other tax breaks. Several ARRA provisions, like the Making Work Pay and First-time Homebuyers Credits, have received a lot of press, but taxpayers don’t necessarily realize how much more is included in the stimulus package. Even if you don’t normally file a return, there are refundable credits, like the earned income and additional child tax credits, which could make filing worthwhile this year. “The 2009 tax law changes cover a wide range of topics and life events. However, several credits and deductions, especially those in the economic stimulus package, require action well before April 2010. As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to do a little tax research before making decisions

2009 changes

related to homes, college, retirement and cars. Doing so could save hundreds, even thousands, on your 2009 tax return,” explains Jessi Dolmage, spokeswoman for 2nd Story Software, the makers of TaxACT. In order to capitalize on ARRA provisions, Dolmage recommends: 1. Collect all 2009 tax documents, and organizing them by topics such as: * Child and dependent care * Education expenses * Medical expenses * Vehicle taxes paid * Real estate taxes * Mortgage interest paid * Charitable contributions * Business or employee expenses * Investment transactions * Retirement contributions * Energy efficiency property expenses * Household employee expenses * Alimony expenses and/or income

Be sure to create a section for official tax documents such as Form W-2s, Form 1099â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, Schedule K-1, etc. You should also include a copy of your 2008 tax return for reference and for your Adjusted Gross Income or Self-select Personal Identification Number if you want to e-file your 2009 return. (E-filing with direct deposit is considered the fastest and most accurate way to file and get your refund.) Being organized will bring peace of mind and expedite tax preparation time. 2. Learn about the ARRA and other 2009 tax law changes at www.IRS.gov. In addition, all wage earners and those receiving retirement income should review their federal withholding per the

Making Work Pay Credit. If you have more than one job, you and your spouse both work, or you can be claimed as a dependent, you are even more likely to be withholding too little income tax, possibly causing you to owe taxes. An overview of the ARRA and a Making Work Pay Calculator are also available at www.TaxACT.com/recovery-act. 3. Start your federal return early using a free do-it-yourself tax preparation solution. (Skipping the second tip makes this one even more important.) After entering some basic information, see how 2009 tax law changes will affect your bottom line. Doing so may introduce you to credits and deductions you may otherwise miss, save time when youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re ready to file and

reduce errors (because you wonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be rushing). All taxpayers - regardless of income or how complex their returns are - can prepare, print and e-file their IRS returns for free with TaxACT Online Free Federal Edition. You can choose between a question and answer interview format and a quick entry method, both of which can be done at your own pace. The ARRA has made taxes more of a year-round topic and proves that early tax preparation can be a very simple and smart way to save a lot of money.

Corporation: An ingenious device for obtaining profit without individual responsibility.

rate with the tax advantages of a mortgage, and you have an incredibly cheap way to build wealth, but you better act now.

Time to Refinance Buy !?

Right now, mortgage rates are at their lowest level since 1971. Think about that. Twenty-five years ago, homeowners were paying as much as 18% on a 30-year fixed. Today it’s just a little over 5%.Combine that

Real estate guru Barbara Corcoran has already seen a tremendous surge in refinance applications – more than triple the average – and the number of people getting approved is astronomically higher as well, she says. But that doesn’t mean the low rates are a panacea for the ills of the housing market. It is only once home prices start to go up that we will finally see a light at the end of tunnel, Corcoran says. Until that happens, we are still going to have to crawl out of this mess. “[Low interest rates are] a not a lifesaver,” Corcoran says. “This is just a helping hand.”

David Kittle, chairman of the Mortgage Bankers Association, has this advice to homeowners looking to refinance: Do it. Don’t get greedy searching for another quarter-point. Lock in rates now. He is seeing applications soar over 125% just since Thanksgiving due to the low rates. Of course, you should only refinance if it saves you at least 3/8 on the rate and if you plan on staying in your home for at least four years, Kittle says. Along with good credit, proof of income and money by means of a down payment or equity in the home, there are certain things every homeowner needs regardless of interest rate levels.

I wish we could put up some of the Christmas spirit in jars and open a jar of it every month.

Tips to manage credit card debt (ARA) - Loan consolidation has its ups and downs, but, if handled properly, it can help a family afford to get out from under debt. The average American household had $8,329 in credit card debt in 2008, according to the Nilson Report in April. And that didn’t depend on if the household currently had an active credit card open. “Debt control and management is a possibility for everyone,” says Daniel Wesley at CreditLoan.com. “And there are many resources available ranging from credit consolidation companies to credit counselors - that can help people bring their debt to a manageable level.” Some tips to help evaluate if debt consolidation is an option for you are: * Get organized List all the debts you have, all the interest rates you’re paying and all the annual income your family brings in. Having all this information in front of you will help you to determine the best steps for bringing your debts under control.

* Do the math Calculate the interest rates for all the debts you’re paying now, and then calculate what your new interest payments will be for all the different consolidation options. The concern is that the new single interest rate through your credit card or bad credit loans will probably be a higher amount, so you need to make sure your overall payments are fewer than what you’re currently paying on multiple debts. * Determine the risk You can consolidate all your debt to one credit card that has a lower interest rate now, but there is the risk that those rates will increase in a year. And if you don’t have your debt paid down that quickly, this type of consolidation probably won’t make the best sense. Another type of consolidation is taking out a home equity loan, but with this, you have the risk of your home being taken away if you default on the payments.

Banking on the go puts you in control of your money (ARA) - Ever wish you could get more done in a day? Now it’s possible - and easy - to pay bills, transfer money, check balances in your bank accounts, even send money to a strapped family member, all with the device most people never leave home without: the mobile phone. New upgrades to mobile phones give multi-tasking parents and busy people the opportunity to take care of routine chores while on the go. Whether you’re sitting in the bleachers or on the bus, you can use your mobile phone to help manage everyday financial tasks. Some people think they need “smartphones” when it comes to mobile banking. Not true. The type of phone you own doesn’t matter, as long as you can send and receive text messages. For example, some innovative banks offer a text banking service that gives customers easy access to account balances, lets them review activity, such as seeing when a bill was paid, receive alerts about low balances and provides locations of nearby ATMs.

Text banking doesn’t require you to log into a Web site. At Wells Fargo, for example, customers who sign up for free text banking service (mobile carrier charges still apply) can send a quick text message to Wells Fargo with a command like “bal all” and receive their balance in moments, without logging in or going to a Web site. And, by typing and sending “command” to Wells Fargo at 93557 (shortcode for “Wells”) customers will receive a list of all text banking commands they can use, such as “ATM,” to retrieve additional information. After the initial text to 93557, the text number can be saved in the mobile phone’s address book to help make the process even faster next time. Do you own a smartphone? Then it’s even easier to take care of tasks and manage money while on the go. By downloading the icons you want from your favorite Web sites, including one from your bank, such as WF.com (for Wells Fargo Mobile), you can pay bills, and even send money to family members whether they are in town, traveling out of state, or in another country.

For Arah Erickson, head of mobile banking at Wells Fargo &amp; Company, the ability to manage money on the go allows her to spend more time with her family. “As a mom who works outside the home every day, I have to make the most of each minute. I love that I can pay bills while waiting to pick my kids up from school or from their friends’ birthday parties. I can also look at the balance in my checking account right at the store before I splurge on an expensive household item or gift.” According to Javelin Strategy &amp; Research, mobile banking may offer a greater degree of security than relying on paper statements because consumers can monitor their accounts any time, any place. That means consumers can spot suspicious transactions and stop fraud far faster than they can with paper statements. So next time you have a question about your finances and you are not near your bank or a computer, think about “banking on the go.” Banking on your mobile phone can help save time. This allows you more time to do the other things you need and want to do.

Final Words

Believe nothing, no matter where you read it, or who said it, no matter if I have said it, unless it agrees with your own reason and your own common sense. Buddha